User Guide

10 Preface About High Definition and Broadcast Formats
720p30
720p30 is a particularly flexible format because it is compatible with standard definition
NTSC video (because it has a matching frame rate of 29.97 fps) as well as streaming and
downloadable video (because it is progressively scanned). Because of the progressive
scanning, 720p30 is also useful when you need a video format that can output
high-quality still frames.
Pros
 720p is compatible with both standard definition NTSC video (29.97 fps) and
computer graphics because it is progressively scanned.
Cons
 720p has a smaller image size than 1920 x 1080 (though it is still higher resolution
than standard definition video).
720p24
720p24 is sometimes simply referred to as 24p, and is considered by some to be the
most flexible frame rate choice because it is possible to transfer to NTSC video, PAL
video, and film. Choose this mode if you plan to transfer your finished video to film, or
if you are trying to emulate a film look on your final video.
Pros
 Can be easily converted to other frame rates compatible with NTSC video, PAL video,
and film (24 fps frame rate allows direct transfer to film).
 Progressive scanning eliminates interlacing artifacts.
 Has a 60 percent lower data rate than 720p60 because of the lower frame rate.
Cons
 720p has a smaller image size than 1920 x 1080 (though it is still higher resolution
than standard definition video).
 Requires a telecine pulldown process when transferring to NTSC.
 Requires a frame rate increase when transferring to PAL. This slightly alters the
audio rate.
 The low frame rate requires slow camera motion to avoid stuttering jumps from
frame to frame.