11 – Exchanging Data with a Computer

You can backup song data on this unit to a computer and restore backed-up song data later. Moreover, you can export track files and master files from a song to a computer and import audio files on the computer to the unit.

Backed-up data can be restored to a different DP-008 unit than the one that created it. In other words, files can be freely exchanged between DP-008 units, making it easy to add additional recordings or mix existing recordings in a different location.

NOTE

•The MTR partitions where song files are stored cannot be directly accessed from a computer.

•In this chapter, “computer” refers to a Windows or Macintosh personal computer connected to this unit (see “Supported operating systems” below).

CAUTION

If you want to remove an SD card from this unit and back-up its data on a computer using a card reader, always turn off the unit’s power before removing the card.

Supported operating systems

You can connect this unit to computers with the following operating systems.

Windows

Windows XP, Windows Vista, Windows 7

Mac OS X

Mac OS X 10.2 or later

When this unit is connected to a computer, the computer recognizes it as a removable disk. There is no need for a special driver.

NOTE

Data transfer between this unit and a computer occurs at USB 2.0 speed (maximum). Data can still be transferred if the computer connection is USB1.1, but it will be slower.

In addition, to assure USB 2.0 speed, use the included cable or a cable that meets USB 2.0 standards.

The following types of data can be transferred from this unit to a computer.

Entire songs

You can transfer the data for an entire song from the unit’s BACKUP directory on the FAT partition to a computer. This operation is called “backup.” In addition, data backed- up on a computer can be transferred to the BACKUP directory on the FAT partition, and then restored as song data. This operation is called “restore.”

WAV format tracks

One or more tracks can be converted to WAV files and exported to a computer, and WAV files on a computer can be imported to this unit. These WAV files are stored on the WAVE directory of this unit’s FAT partition.

Stereo master track

A stereo master track made on this unit can be transferred to a computer as a stereo WAV file from the WAVE directory on the FAT partition. Only export is possible.

Connecting with a computer

To use the FAT partition of this unit, the unit must be connected to a computer by USB. When connected by USB, this unit’s record, playback and other recorder operations cannot be used.

To connect with a computer, connect the USB port on the right side panel of the unit with a USB port on the computer using the included USB cable. It does not matter whether you turn the unit’s power ON before or after the USB connection is made.

If the USB connection is made while the unit’s power is ON, the currently loaded song is saved before the USB connection becomes effective. When connected, the following screen appears on the display.

TASCAM DP-008 71