User Guide

48 Chapter 2 Working With DVCPRO HD
DVCPRO HD Format Specifications
DVCPRO HD is a 100 Mbps extension of the DVCPRO (25) and DVCPRO 50 formats, used
for capturing and editing high-quality high definition video. Because DVCPRO HD is a
DV format, native FireWire capture and output is supported.
Storage Medium
DVCPRO, DVCPRO 50, and DVCPRO HD tapes use a metal particle (MP) tape formulation.
Some tape sizes are supported only by decks and not by cameras. As the data rate is
doubled from 25 Mbps (DV and DVCPRO) to 50 Mbps (DVCPRO 50) to 100 Mbps
(DVCPRO HD), the recording time is halved in each case. Therefore, a 63-minute DV tape
stores only 31 minutes of DVCPRO 50 footage, or 15 minutes of DVCPRO HD footage.
You can also record DVCPRO, DVCPRO 50, and DVCPRO HD on P2 cards. For more
information, see “Working With Panasonic P2 Media” on page 75.
Video Standards
The DVCPRO HD specification supports several high definition formats, depending on
the camcorder or deck used.
Warning: DV (sometimes referred to as mini-DV) and DVCAM use a metal evaporated
(ME) tape formula while DVCPRO uses metal particle tape. When in doubt, always use
cassettes explicitly manufactured for the camera or VTR you intend to use.
Related
SMPTE standard
Dimensions
Frame rate and
scanning method
Aspect ratio
SMPTE 274-1998 1280 x 1080
1440 x 1080
60i, 59.94i
50i, 25p
16:9
SMPTE 296M-2001 960 x 720 60p, 59.94p
60p, 59.94p (variable
1
)
30p, 29.97p
25p
24p, 23.98p
16:9
1
Any frame rate from 4 to 60 fps can be recorded using a camcorder such as the Panasonic Varicam. Regardless
of the frame rate you choose, the camcorder actually records at either 60 or 59.94 fps (for NTSC compatibility).