nanoFlash Comprehensive FAQs and Usage Guide Including ASI Firmware Version 1.5.126 10-Apr-10 Convergent Design, Inc 4465 Northpark Dr. Suite 400 Colorado Springs, Colorado 80907, USA www.convergent-design.
nanoFlash FAQs Overview 1. Can I get a brief description and some photos of the nanoFlash? nanoFlash is the world’s smallest, lightest, lowest-power, professional HD/SD recorder/player. Easily mounted to your camera, nanoFlash is designed to record higher quality images than the camera itself, by capturing never-compressed video/audio from the HD-SDI or HDMI output.
nanoFlash FAQs 2. What are the applications/benefits of nanoFlash? a. To upgrade the video/audio quality of your existing camera: 1. 4:2:0 → 4:2:2 (color) 2. 1440x1080 → 1920x1080 (full-raster) 3. 25/35 Mbps → 50/100/140/180/280 Mbps (bit-rate) 4. Compressed 16-bit audio → Uncompressed 24-bit audio b. Tapeless Workflow c. Enhance recording capabilities of your camera with pre-record buffer, pull-down removal, interval recording, redundant recording, etc. d.
nanoFlash FAQs Your camera’s recording subsystem has two major components: the CODEC and the storage device. The CODEC compresses the video from about 1,200 Mbps (uncompressed HD) to a more manageable 18 to 280 Mbps. The storage device is typically a tape, optical disk, or possibly a memory card. Compressed video, along with audio and timecode, is stored on these media for playback or transfer to a NLE. The CODEC and storage medium are both significant in determining your video quality.
nanoFlash FAQs So what does full-raster (1920), full-color (4:2:2), high-bit rate (100+ Mbps), compression produce? Well, in independent tests, the results are clear: images that are visually indistinguishable from the uncompressed HD-SDI / HDMI images directly out of your camera! So, nanoFlash can vastly improve on the weakest link in the quality chain: your camera’s built-in recorder. Video/Audio I/O 5.
nanoFlash FAQs 12. Can nanoFlash be upgraded to support 4:4:4? No, this is outside the capabilities of the hardware design. 13. Will 1080p60/59.94 or 1080p50 be possible in a future release? Support of these formats requires 3G HD-SDI (or dual-link 1.5GHz HD-SDI), which is not possible with the current hardware. 14. Can nanoFlash auto-detect the incoming HD/SD-SDI / HDMI stream? Yes.
nanoFlash FAQs through HD-SDI switchers. PSF formatting does not change your 1080p video whatsoever, but merely reformats the stream during HD-SDI transmission. PSF breaks the progressive frame into two segments before HD-SDI transmission. The first segment contains the odd lines (1,3,5,etc.) of video and the second segment contains the even lines (2,4,6,etc). The two segments are automatically recombined appropriately before display and/or compression.
nanoFlash FAQs No; not in the traditional sense. When recording, you need to genlock the cameras. Since nanoFlash locks to the incoming HD/SD-SDI source, it will also be genlocked automatically. During playback, multiple nanoFlashes can be genlocked via a master HDSDI distribution amp. 24. How can I monitor the video? nanoFlash has both HD/SD-SDI and HDMI outputs which are simultaneously active during record (loop-thru) as well as playback. 25.
nanoFlash FAQs a. b. c. d. e. f. g. h. i. Solid-state media, no moving parts Low-power (about 1/10 of hard disk-drive) Very reliable (all solid-state); 100K write cycles, 10 year data retention Easily removable, 10K insertion cycles. Low-cost, about 1/3 to 1/10 the price of other professional solid-state media. High read/write bandwidth (up to 720 Mbps read/write speeds).
nanoFlash FAQs recommended for nanoFlash: Manufacturer PhotoFast 533X 64GB Delkin 420X 64GB SanDisk Extreme 32GB SanDisk Extreme Pro 64GB Write Speed 380 Mbps 500 Mbps 480 Mbps 720 Mbps Read Speed 800 Mbps 500 Mbps 480 Mbps 720 Mbps Max Allowed Bit-Rate 220 Mbps 220 Mbps 280 Mbps 280 Mbps Note: Due to overhead considerations, such as opening and closing files and updating the directory and FAT32 table, the maximum allowable bit-rate must always fall below the theoretical write/read speed of a given Comp
nanoFlash FAQs • • • • Lexar 600X: for all bit-rates Delkin 305X: for bit-rates up to 220 Mbps Delkin 420X: for bit-rates up to 220 Mbps Transcend 400X: for bit-rates up to 220 Mbps 43. What happens if the selected bit-rate is too fast for a given CF card? nanoFlash automatically stops, reduce the bit-rate to the next lower level, and re-starts recording. An error message: “Video Footage Lost, Card too Slow” is displayed. 44.
nanoFlash FAQs File Size” setting in the System Menu. Finally, you can “break” to a new file during a record session by pressing the record button for one second. 48. What is your recommended CompactFlash card reader? USB 2.0 Firewire-800 Express Card 34 A USB 2.0 Compact Flash card reader is included with your nanoFlash, which is generally sufficient for 100 Mbps playback. The next performance improvement comes with a Firewire-800 reader, such as the one shown from Lexar.
nanoFlash FAQs The video and audio data (the essence) is identical for MXF and Quicktime files. These file formats differ in the headers and the method the audio, video and time-code are multiplexed in the file. MPG format allows one to record in SD at 5,6,7,8 or 9 Mbps and HD at 19, 25, 35 (4:2:0) If one records in MPG, one can use various utilities to create two “Elementary Streams”, one audio and one video. One such free utility is called “MPEG Streamclip”: http://www.squared5.
nanoFlash FAQs The clips on a CompactFlash card can be transferred to the Nexto’s hard drive at approximately 25 megabytes per second (MBps). When extracting the clips to another computer, via the built-in ESATA interface, the transfer speed is approximately 60 MBps. We recommend purchasing the extra battery with the Nexto, as the internal rechargeable battery power is limited to a transfer of approximately 80 Gigabytes. 56.
nanoFlash FAQs d. e. f. g. h. i. j. Proxy recording at 18 Mbps 4:2:0 Long-GOP MPEG2 files can be played in DVD or Blu-Ray disks (use .MPG format) Universal native NLE support: FCP, Avid, Edius, Vegas, Premiere No need to transcode or translate files, plays directly off the CF card.
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nanoFlash FAQs 69. How does this compression compare to the native Sony EX1/EX3 CODEC? Compare the two images below, the left image is from the native XDCam EX is 4:2:0 at 35 Mbps, while the right image was recorded on the nanoFlash (via the HD-SDI out of the EX1) using the XDCAM 422 at 100 Mbps. Note this is an extreme pan and rotation test and not indicative of the normal quality from the EX1. Parallel Recording: Sony EX1 and nanoFlash 35 Mbps 4:2:0 vs 100 Mbps 4:2:2 70.
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nanoFlash FAQs 74. Is the video of sufficient quality for output to film? Yes, several films have already been released using the nanoFlash. However, we recommend using the 220 or 280 Mbps I-Frame for highest possible quality. 75. Is recording in 4:2:2 (as opposed to 4:2:0) really make a difference? The resolution chart shows the clear difference between 4:2:0 and 4:2:2. Also notice the reduced artifacts (less noise around the text) at 100 Mbps.
nanoFlash FAQs automatically start and stop recording when the record-button is pressed on the camera. Note: your camera must be set to record-run time-code for this mode. 77. Can the nanoFlash be set up for time-lapse (interval) recording? Yes, time-lapse is accomplished by recording the desired frames using I-Frame Only mode. The user can select the interval by selecting HH:MM:SS value in the menu.
nanoFlash FAQs 83. How do I know the recording is active? The nanoFlash displays red recording lights just above the Compact Flash slots and blinks the tally light on the optional remote control switch. Additionally, there are start and stop tones to the headphone which can be enabled. 84. Can I record the HDMI output from my Blu-ray Player? No, the HDMI output from Blu-ray is encrypted via HDCP (High-Definition Content Protection) and cannot be copied. 85.
nanoFlash FAQs 92. What is the file naming convention used in nanoFlash? File Names are 8 character name + 3 character extension (.MOV/.MXF/.MPG) File name = XXYYYZZ XX = Camera ID or Unit ID, Set by the user YYY = Clip Number (which increments with each record session) ZZZ = File Number (which increments automatically across 4GB boundaries) The Clip Number is remembered, even if the nanoFlash is powered down. The File Number always starts with 001 for each new clip.
nanoFlash FAQs Single-Channel, Multi-Display Using HD/SD-SDI nanoFlash also features an HD/SD-SDI output, which can be connected to an SDI distribution amp to simultaneously drive multiple professional monitors. Cables runs up to 150 meters (per link) are possible using HD-SDI connections. 99. How can nanoFlash be used in video assist applications? Currently, users can play back any file using the control panel. You can also move from file to file very quickly using the right and left arrows.
nanoFlash FAQs NLE Support and Workflow, DVD/Blu-Ray Encoding 106. Can I convert my existing camera to tapeless workflow? Yes, while your camera may be designed for tape-based recording, the nanoFlash converts it instantly to a tapeless workflow with all the benefits therein. For example, with tape, many film producers and crew are very reluctant to rewind a tape to review the recorded clips.
nanoFlash FAQs • • • • • • • • • No humidity issues No tape dropouts Hot-swap for endless record time Much longer record times 5.3 Hours at 50 Mbps for one load of two 64 GB cards Much less weight, power, size, no fans Simple Playback on any “take”, can immediately switch back to record. Much less storage volume and weight compared to tape. Much less shipping costs and power requirements compared to tape decks. Much less initial cost and maintenance cost. 107.
nanoFlash FAQs 109. Can I playback the clips on my PC or MAC? Yes, there are a number of available viewer programs, including: • Playback of MXF Files on PC (no NLE required) PDZ-VX10 Full Resolution Viewer Version 2.30 (XDCAM Viewer Software) • Playback and Import of MXF (to QT) Files on Mac (with FCP) PDZ-KP1 XDCAM Transfer Software Version 2.10.0 • Playback of MXF files on MAC (without FCP) Use PDZ-KP1 XDCAM Transfer Software Version 2.10.
nanoFlash FAQs Explorer doesn't appear to fragment files on the card.) For files exported from Final Cut Pro or other Quicktime compatible software (.MOV in the XDCAM EX or XDCAM 422 profile only, files must be less than 32 Gbytes each) : use this utility's conversion tool to make a Flash XDR / nanoFlash compatible copy of the files, selecting the CF card volume as the destination folder. Place the CF card back into the recorder, and press the play button.
nanoFlash FAQs User Interface / Remote Control 120. How is the nanoFlash configured? Currently, the nanoFlash is configured using the front panel control. Settings are saved and are automatically restored during power-up. In a future release, we plan on supporting setup profiles. 121. What is the configuration for the remote control? The remote control connector is a lockable 10-pin Hirose connector. The corresponding plug is available from www.Digikey.com.
nanoFlash FAQs This is planned as extra cost feature, and is expected to be sold as a package with software that controls the nanoFlash from a Mac or a PC. Mechanical / Power / Environmental 126. What is the size and weight of nanoFlash? The nanoFlash is camera mountable: 107 (L) x 94 (W) x 36 (H) mm (4.2 x 3.7 x 1.4”), and the weight is approximately 0.4 kg (15 oz). 127. Can I mount nanoFlash to the back of my camcorder? We offer a Hotshoe Ball Mount that works very well with many cameras.
nanoFlash FAQs nanoFlash can detect the presence of a valid HD/SD-SDI input. Therefore, it can be programmed to switch from active state (6 Watts power) to standby state (0.2 Watts of power) when the HD/SD-SDI signal is turned off (when you turn off your camera). nanoFlash requires about 4 seconds to reboot when the HD/SD-SDI signal re-appears. nanoFlash automatically powers down the SDI transmitter and the HDMI I/O if no cable connection is detected.
nanoFlash FAQs include an internal battery, but our battery will be available with a case that attaches to the side of the nanoFlash. 136. What is the power input requirement and the connector specification? The nanoFlash consumes about 6.0 watts active / 0.2 watts standby.
nanoFlash FAQs Yes, the nanoFlash is already field proven in these applications - it’s 100% solid-state, no moving parts. 141. What is the operational temperature range? -40 to 70 degrees C (-40 to 158 degrees F) 142. What is the altitude range of the nanoFlash? The nanoFlash has been field-proven to altitudes of 30,000 meters (98,000 feet). 143. What humidity levels are acceptable? nanoFlash has a wide humidity range of 5% to 95%, non-condensing. 10-Apr-10 ©Convergent Design, Inc.
nanoFlash FAQs 144. Can I get a drawing of the bottom mounting plate? General Questions 145. How can I connect the nanoFlash to my Sony EX1/EX3 camera? Power options: SWIT battery or Coco adapter. Most popular mounting option: NebTek adapter. 146. How can I connect nanoFlash to the Canon XL H1 or XL-H1s? The original Canon XL-H1 did not have embedded audio or time-code. However, you can connect the analog audio outputs to the nanoFlash via a common RCA to 3.5mm cable.
nanoFlash FAQs only 720p HDV data can be recorded to tape. However, nanoFlash accepts and records in either 720p or 1080i formats. 148. Which HD-SDI Switchers are compatible with nanoFlash? nanoFlash works with most professional HD-SDI switchers with a compatible output format (see recording option and formats section). This makes nanoFlash an ideal live event recorder. 149.
nanoFlash FAQs Firmware version 1.0.64 is a mandatory update. You cannot rollback from version 1.0.64, however, all future versions will support rollback and you can skip from version to version (without updating the intermediate versions). 156. What happens if I lose power during a firmware update? Firmware version 1.0.64 adds a “golden image” to the internal program memory in the nanoFlash.
nanoFlash FAQs 165. How does the nanoFlash compare to other portable recorders? nanoFlash Competitor A Competitor B Size Package Volume Weight Case Construction Mounting 107 x 94 x 26 mm 0.26 cubic meters 0.4 kg All Aluminum Built into case 155 x 228 x 82 mm 2.9 cubic meters 1.67 kg Aluminum + Plastic Optional Kit 104 x 227 x 83 mm 1.9 cubic meters 1.1 kg Unknown Optional Kit Power DC Voltage Range Active Power Standby Mode 6.5 to 19.5 V 6W 0.2 W 12.0 to 18.0 V 30 W Not Available 7.2 to 7.
nanoFlash FAQs Up/Down/Cross Conversion Media Basic Media Media Manufacturers Optional Media File Formats QT -> MXF Converter Transfer Speed to PC/MAC Cost per Hour of Storage Compatibility Final Cut Pro Avid Vegas Premiere Edius Sony XDCAM Optical nanoFlash Competitor A Competitor B Not Available Yes Yes Compact Flash (x2) 6 Not Available Not Available QT, MXF, MPG MAC Only Hard Drive (x1) 1 Solid-State Drive (x1) SxS Cards (x2) QT Not Available P2 Card (X2) 2-3 Not Available Not Available MXF No
nanoFlash FAQs GPS Support DVD / Blu-Ray Encoding ASI Option Boot Time LANC MetaData Operating Range Max Altitude Temp Range Humidity Jan 2010 nanoFlash Unknown Competitor A No Competitor B Yes Yes 5 Secs Not Available Future Not Available Not Available 60 Secs Yes Yes Not Available Not Available Unknown Not Available Extensive 98,000 feet -30 to 70 C 5 to 95% Unknown Unknown Unknown Unknown 0 to 40 C 10 to 80 % * Adobe Premiere support requires Main Concept Plugin *Comparison based on best availa
nanoFlash FAQs 169. How do I get it on my Flash XDR/nanoFlash? The ASI feature is a $995 option added to your Flash XDR/nanoFlash either at the time of purchase or easily enabled via a firmware update in the field using a compact flash card. The option is activated via a file loaded into the Flash XDR/nanoFlash tied to the serial number of your unit. 170.
nanoFlash FAQs The Flash XDR and nanoFlash both accept HD/SD-SDI video with embedded audio. The nanoFlash also accepts HDMI video with embedded audio. The Flash XDR has 2 channel balanced analog audio inputs with phantom power and microphone support. The nanoFlash has 2 channel unbalanced analog audio input to go with the 2 channel embedded audio support. 177.
nanoFlash FAQs 184. What are the PIDs of the PCR, PMT, program number, video, and audio? Are they programmable? • Video PID: 0x0810 (decimal 2064) • Audio PID: 0x0814 (2068) • PCR PID: 0x0134 (308) • PMT PID: 0x0081 (129) • Program number: 0x01 (1) • In the near future, a firmware update will be released that will make these values programmable. 185.
nanoFlash FAQs 190. Can the Flash XDR/nanoFlash record ASI to a card and then play off the card to an ASI stream at a later time? Not at this time. 191. Can the Flash XDR/nanoFlash still be used as a recorder once ASI is activated? Yes, there is a menu option to put the unit in ASI mode. Take the unit out of ASI mode and it acts like a solid state recorder. 192. How much power does the Flash XDR/nanoFlash use? • The Flash XDR uses 12-14 watts (depending on if analog audio is activated).
