User Manual USER MANUAL
No part of this documentation may be reproduced in any form whatsoever or be stored in any data retrieval system without prior written permission of the copyright owners. This documentation is supplied on an as-is basis. Information contained within this documentation is subject to change at any time without notice and must not be relied upon. All company and product names are ™ or Registered Trademarks ® of their respective owners.
Contents Introduction Thank you! Overview 10 10 10 What is VCube? 10 Contacting Merging 11 International Office: 11 UK: 11 USA: 11 VCube Keys & Options Installation Early VCube Systems VCube Concepts 12 13 13 13 Project 13 Composition 13 Track 13 Video Track Layer 13 Audio Track Layer 13 About This Manual 14 Assumptions 14 Conventions 14 Important Note User Interface 15 16 Overview 16 Program Screen 17 Context Menus 18 Navigating the Interface 18 Zoom in the Timeline
Quick HD Settings 28 Projects Compositions 30 30 Composition File Tab Page 30 New Composition 31 Load Selective 32 Settings Imported With Composition 33 Import 34 Import Composition and Export Changes 34 Import Layer 34 Import Images Sequence 35 AAF 38 MXF 39 OMF 39 Media Management Media File Browser 42 42 File Extensions Supported 45 Tracks and Layers 46 Video Tracks and Layers 47 Track and Layer Order 47 Audio Tracks and Layers 48 Tracks and Layers Created Automatica
Text Clip Generated Clips Countdown Clip Wipe Clip Video Test Pattern Clip Audio Tone clip Control Settings Page File Tab 69 72 72 74 75 76 77 78 VCube Compositions 79 Media File Browser Locator Tab View Tab 80 80 80 Clip Info 80 Video Clip 81 Audio Clip 84 Shortcut 87 Workspace 88 Edit 91 Main 91 Clips 92 Layers 93 Tracks 94 Settings Settings Page 95 95 Preset 95 Creating Global Presets 96 Format & Sync 97 Video I/O 101 Overlay 102 Preview 104 Composition 107 Buffer
Remote Control VCube Chasing Pyramix Via Virtual Transport in the Same PC (PyraCube) VCube Chasing Pyramix Using Virtual Transport Via Network Remote Control VCube with a Sony 9-pin Controller Synchronizing VCube to a Sony 9-pin Chase Synchronizer Sony P2 Protocol over IP 129 129 130 132 133 133 VCube Controlled by Sony 9-pin, Chasing an LTC Source Synchronize VCube with an LTC Source Synchronize VCube with a VITC Source Machine Control VCube Controlling & Chasing a Sony 9-pin Conversion and Rendering Exp
Frozen Image on Matrox Parhelia Output 170 Poor HD Image Quality 171 Frame Shifting with Virtual Transport 171 Sony 9-pin Not Controlling VCube 172 Recorded Media Files have incorrect Timestamp 172 Video Playback is shifted 173 User Interface with ATI Graphic Card 174 NTSC Video Output Exhibits Some Dropped Frames with PAL Media Files 174 Apple Compatibility 2GB Limitation 175 Appendices AJA Video Cards and Plugins 176 176 Xena LSe - SD-SDI/Analog 176 Xena LHe - SD/HD-SDI/Analog 179
Fairlight DREAM Satellite 231 Fairlight DREAM Station 231 ProTools and VCube Sony 9-Pin RS422 Wiring Chart Glossary Index 231 236 240 248 Contents : 1 - viii
: Document revision-04 Date: 2nd-November-2010 : Page 9
Introduction Thank you! Congratulations on your purchase of the VCube HD Video System. More than just a powerful video solution, VCube is part of a comprehensive range of Audio, Video and Show Control products, software and hardware. Welcome to the worldwide community of users who have already discovered the Merging Technologies advantage. Note: IMPORTANT! - The first thing you need to do is register your software to acquire your VCube key(s) and to be included in our user support list.
Contacting Merging International Office: Merging Technologies S.A.
VCube Keys & Options Note: VCube is currently supplied with RGBA, RGB, YUY2, DV25, MJPEG, codecs. DVCPRO (50), DVCPRO-HD (100),DNxHD and IMX/MPEG2 are optional. OMF is provided as a Timeline exchange format. MXF, AAF, and Apple XML are optional.
Installation Please see the VCube Installation Guide and the Installation Guides for any hardware you have purchased. Early VCube Systems Note: Early VCube systems may include AJA Xena LS, Xena HS or Canopus ADVX-1000 video cards. These are no longer actively supported as of Version 2. If you have one of these cards you may wish to contact your Merging Technologies sales partner to discuss a cross-grade solution. VCube Concepts Project A Project is the top level of organization.
About This Manual Assumptions This User Manual and the other documentation assume you are thoroughly familiar with PCs and Windows terms and concepts. If the PC is new, please ensure the machine is working correctly before attempting to install VCube. Note: Although VCube version 2 runs under the 32 bit versions of Windows XP, Windows Vista and Windows 7, it does not support the “Aero” style transparency display features present in Windows Vista and Windows 7.
Note: All features described in the documentation are available in the Advanced Mode. If the user-interface is set to Simple Mode some features may remain hidden or unavailable. To change the UI Mode: User Interface > WorkSpace > UIMode: Advanced [Alt + F3] User Interface > WorkSpace > UIMode: Simple [Alt + F1] Navigation In electronic form, all the Contents and Index entries and Cross-references are hyperlinks. I.e. Clicking on them will jump to the relevant item.
User Interface Overview VCube is organized with a Tabbed Page interface. Every Tab can be displayed in a broken away window, on top of the Preview, if required, even while Preview is full screen. Classic pull-down menus complement this user interface. In VCube there are usually at least three ways of accessing everything. E.g. Menu, Icon, Tab or Keyboard Shortcut. To display a Page Tab separately, Double-click on its Title Label. The floating Tab Page can now be Click-anddragged anywhere on the screen(s).
Program Screen VCube Program Screen The main VCube screen appears when the program is launched. This screen is NOT resizable in the conventional Windows manner and will occupy the whole screen area of one PC monitor unless Floating Window mode is selected ([F4] toggles). It can also be minimized or closed with control boxes at top right. Pull-down menus are at the top of the screen. By default the entire upper panel is a Preview video monitor.
Context Menus Right-click in the Preview pane or in the Timeline with the Cursor over the tracks to display contextual menus. Note: The Timeline menu contents varies depending on circumstances. Preview Context Menu In Simple, Full Screen or Floating modes, several VCube functions can be accessed with a Right-Click on the preview area : Preview Context Menu Toggle Fullscreen Preview [F3] Toggles Preview Full Screen.
Show Record Page in lower panel [F12] User Interface > Show Record Page Toggle Transport Control Panel [T] User Interface > Toggle Transport Tool Show Preset Tab Settings > Show Preset Tab [P] Zoom in the Timeline To change the Zoom level use [Alt + Mouse wheel] or [Alt + Click into the Time Ruler and Drag]. [Alt + Drag in the Timeline] Zooms to the Region selected. Double-click on the Time Ruler acts as Zoom All and deselect selected clip(s).
Timeline User Interface > Show Timeline Page [F11] brings the focus to the Timeline Tab below the Preview pane. Double-clicking the Timeline Tab breaks it away as a floating window. Layer Select Area Opacity Control Mute Solo Source and Destination Rectangles Locator Bar Range Loop Play Head and Time Ruler Clip Name Group Number Audio Output Audio Level Control Vertical Zoom Control Slider Timeline floating Tab • The Locator Tray is above the Timeline. Locators can be dragged with the mouse.
• Layer 1 is selected in Video Track 1. Track 1 is also selected. Sting Clip is set to Fade In. • Opacity of every Layer is set to full (100). Layer 2 in Video Track 1 has been modified in Size or Position • In Video Track 2 the Red / Blue Clip (crosshatched or “zebra” striped) means the Media is missing but despite this, the Clip can still be edited. • Audio Clips and Video Clip Sting... belong to the same group, G2. • Click and drag on the Vertical Zoom Control to vary the Track height.
Use Composition frame rate When checked the time-base is the same as the Composition Frame Rate. When unchecked the time-base can be selected from the drop-down list above. First foot position The Time field enables an offset to be entered if required. For example when a 15 foot (10 second) leader starting at 01:00:00:00:00 precedes the first frame of action and the first frame of action should show 0.00 Feet & frames at 01:00:10:00.
Synchronization Settings All the relevant synchronization settings can be found in the Settings > Show Format & Sync Tab. Requirements In order to be synchronized properly VCube requires the following as a minimum : • A Chase TimeCode Source (Virtual-Transport: Network, Sony 9-pin (P2) protocol or external : LTC, VITC, MTC) • A TimeCode Clock Reference (VCube's Video Reference In BNC connector or internal Mykerinos' clock) • A Clock for audio sampling rate sync.
• VCube can Follow VT Clock Master OFF • VCube can Follow VT (PyraCube Setup) XE/LE/SE Mode without AJA Card and WITHOUT USB Sync (PRO option): • VCube is NEVER Clock Master and TC Master. VCube follows VT without using its internal Chase Synchronizer because both Clock and TimeCode is sourced from VT. VCube SE Auto Sync Settings To simplify setting up VCube in SE Mode some settings are made automatically: • When Follow VT mode is enabled, VCube disables VT TC Master and vice versa.
Quick Settings Overview In order to ensure that VCube is as versatile as possible there are a very large number of settings. To make it easier to configure VCube for common formats there are two Quick Settings options. These two dedicated Settings panels enable one click setting of the Video Input format, the Composition format, the TimeCode frame rate and the Video Output format. When VCube is configured by using Quick Settings it behaves like a VCR for the format selected.
Quick SD Settings Quick Standard Definition Settings page Current Configuration The Current Configuration section summarizes the current state of VCube in terms of: Size : Shows the number of horizontal and vertical pixels. Field Order: Shows Progressive Frame for non field based formats or field order and type. Pixel Aspect Ratio Shows the shape of pixels as a ratio Composition frame Rate E.g. FILM (23.98 fps) TC Frame Rate E.g. FILM (23.98 fps) Mykerinos Video Ref Format: E.g. PAL (625 50.
Audio Ref Field shows the current Audio Reference source. Click on the down arrow to select an alternative. TC Clock Ref Field shows the current TimeCode Reference Source. Click on the down arrow to select an alternative. Note: Except in exceptional circumstances it is highly desirable, if not essential, that all the references are the same and, ideally, sourced from external video syncs.
Quick HD Settings Quick High Definition Settings page Current Configuration The Current Configuration section summarizes the current state of VCube in terms of: Size : Shows the number of horizontal and vertical pixels. Field Order: Shows Progressive Frame for non field based formats or field order and type. Pixel Aspect Ratio Shows the shape of pixels as a ratio Composition frame Rate E.g. FILM (23.98 fps) TC Frame Rate E.g. FILM (23.98 fps) Mykerinos Video Ref Format: E.g. PAL (625 50.
Audio Sampling Rate E.g. 48000 Hz Reference Source The Reference source Panel features two or three drop-down lists: Video Reference Source Field shows the current Video Reference source. Click on the down arrow to select an alternative. (This line is only present when a Video card is fitted.) Audio Ref Field shows the current Audio Reference source. Click on the down arrow to select an alternative. TC Clock Ref Field shows the current TimeCode Reference Source.
Projects Compositions The top level of organization in VCube is the Composition. A Composition is a set of instructions to VCube. These include format information, screen layout and an EDL indicating what Media is to be played and when. It also determines fades, levels and other parameters. A Composition does not contain Media Files. Compositions are portable between systems. Note: Only one Composition can be loaded at a time.
Recursive When checked all Media Files in the Folder will be shown including those in sub-folders New Opens a new Composition with the current settings. [Ctrl + N]. If a Composition is already open then a warning dialog appears: VCube Save Warning dialog Cancel Aborts the new Composition and returns to the current one Yes Saves the current Composition and opens the new one. No Closes the current Composition without saving it and opens the new one. Load Opens a pre-existing Composition.
1. Browse and select a destination folder 2. Click on New 3. The New Composition opens with the same settings as the last Composition opened Load Selective Load Selective enables Composition objects or properties to be loaded into the current Composition. Load Selective dialog Options are grouped into boxes. Each black box header has a button which, when checked, turns on import of the properties or objects selected in the box itself. Selection can only be made when the box title button is checked.
Workspace When selected the Workspaces in the current Composition will be overwritten with the ones in the Composition about to be loaded. Shortcut When selected the Keyboard Shortcuts in the current Composition will be overwritten with the ones in the Composition about to be loaded. Clips From Layer All When selected All Layers in the current Composition will be imported. Layer... All layers present in the Composition to be imported are listed.
Import Import Composition and Export Changes This feature creates an EDL reflecting the differences between two versions of a project. A .EDL file is created in the Composition folder. This file can also be opened in a text editor e.g. Notepad. Import Layer A particular layer or a selection of layers can be imported from a VCube Composition into the current one.
Import Images Sequence Import Images Sequence creates a Video file from a set of Individual Image Files numbered consecutively. A wide range of Image file formats are supported. [Ctrl + I] Import Images Sequence dialog The Import Images Sequence Page has two Tabs, Main and Video. Main Tab Output Output Path Field shows the current Path where the new Video File will be written. ... Click on the ... button to open a Windows browser to select an alternative directory.
Still Image File Formats Supported Supported File Extensions .dpx .yuv .yuv8 .yuv10 .yuv16 .bmp .png .jpg .jpeg .j2k .psd .tga .gif .wmf .tif .tiff .pcx .mng .jng .ico .wbmp .emf .jbg .jpc .pgx .ras .pnm .pgm .
Video Tab Import Images Sequence dialog File Format Field shows the Output File format selected currently. Click on the down arrow to select from: CUBE *. Cube AVI *.avi MPEG *.mpg MPEG *.mpeg MPEG *.m2v MPEG *.m1t MPEG *.m2t MXF *.mxf QuickTime *.mov Frame Rate The field shows the Frame Rate selected currently. Click on the down arrow to select an alternative. Compression The field shows the type of Compression selected currently. Click on the down arrow to select an alternative.
2 Fields (Separate - Upper First) Single Field Word Length Fixed at 8 bits currently Bit Format Down Sampling Field shows the current color sub-sampling scheme. 4.2.2 is the default. Up Conversion Mode Field shows current conversion mode. Options will vary with the Pixel Aspect Mode setting. E.g. Anamorphic, Letterbox, Pillarbox or None Pixel Aspect Ratio Field shows the current Pixel Aspect Ratio and the format associated with this. Click on the down arrow to select an alternative.
MXF MXF (Material eXchange Format). The VCube MXF Module has full support (playback, render, record up to 30 fps) for: • D10 / Sony IMX (MPEG-2 in SD format) • MPEG-2-HD / Sony XDCAM HD (MPEG-2 in HD 1080i format) • VC-3 / Avid DNxHD (in HD 1080i format) • AVCIntra / Panasonic P2 (class 50 and 100) For the latest MXF interchange information please see: http://forum.merging.com/viewtopic.
3. Lastly VCube uses the database to re-link Media Files. If the path to Media Files is not available in the OMF Composition, then the Scan function must be used to generate the OMF Media Files data base. The first scan process can take a very long time on a big media server storing thousands of files. Export Settings - Current dialog If some media files cannot be found by VCube a dialog is displayed.
Add Clicking on the Add button adds the path displayed in the Import Path field to the list of Paths which will be searched. Remove Clicking on the Remove button deletes the path selected (by clicking on it) in the panel below the Import File field. OK Click on the OK button to commence the search and close the dialog. Cancel Click on the Cancel button to cancel any changes and close the dialog. Note: The VCube Preferred Search Directories dialog can also be reached directly from the Settings Menu.
Media Management VCube supports Video only, Video + Audio, Audio only, single Still Image and Still Image Sequence Media Files. VCube has a pair of File management Tabs for managing Compositions and Media Files. Media File Browser To open the Media File Browser select File > Import > Media File Browser or Ctrl + Shift + O or choose the Media File Browser Icon in the Toolbar : Media File Browser Navigate to the Drive, Folder or Network Drive / Folder containing the Media using the ...
Recursive If the Recursive button is checked then all Media Files in the Drive or Folder listed in the File Path field will be listed in the main area, including those in Sub-Folders. Media File Browser- Recursive File Path Field shows the current Path ... Opens a Windows browser to change the Path to a location on local storage or via a network. ^ Up arrow steps up the path tree to the root directory.
No Places the selected Media File on the selected Layer at the current Playhead Cursor position. Easy Load Loads the selected Media File in a new Composition and sets Composition settings from the Media File properties. [Shift + L] Place to Cursor Pastes the selected Media File into the selected Layer at the current Playhead cursor position. Place at Original Timecode Pastes the selected Media File into the selected Layer at its original TimeCode location.
File Extensions Supported Supported File Extensions .cube .avi .gen .omf .om .mov .qt .bmp .jpg .jpeg .tif .tiff .png .gif .emf .tga .mng .jng .psd .pcx .wbmp .j2k .jp2 .j2c .jbg .jpc .pgx .pnm .pgm .ppm .wmv .mp4 .mpg* .mpeg* .m1v .mpe .m2v* .mpv2 .m2t .vob .mxf* .aaf* .xml* .dv .dif .aif .mpa* .wav .bwf .pmf .ac3 .sd2 .sdii Description VCube native format Audio Video Interleave. AVI is defined by Microsoft. AVI is the most common format for audio/video data on the PC.
Tracks and Layers Each Composition includes a number of Video and Audio Tracks on which audio and video Clips can be placed. Blocks representing placed or recorded Clips will appear on the Track as soon as a Clip has been placed. The Track itself extends horizontally beneath the Time Scale bar, and multiple Tracks are stacked vertically.
Video Track Header Lock When checked the entire Track is locked for editing. Track Number Track Mute Mutes (Hides) all Layers in the Track. Track Solo Solos the Track Layer Number Shows the Layer number (Normal) Under Development - may be used for compositing. Layer Opacity Field shows the current Opacity value. Click in the field and type to enter a value between 0 and 100%.
Audio Tracks and Layers Audio Tracks appear below the Video Tracks in the Timeline. Each Audio Track can contain a number of Layers (individual Channels) E.g. a 5.1 Audio Track will have six Layers. As with Video Tracks the Track Mute and Solo buttons affect all the Layers in the Track. Each Layer also has it’s own Mute and Solo buttons which only affect the Layer. Each Channel can be routed to any physical Mykerinos or ASIO output present on the system.
Transport and Navigation Navigation VCube offers a number of ways of navigating around a Composition. Time Ruler In the Timeline panel, under the Locator Bar, is a larger horizontal gray area with Timecode numbers and graduation marks. This is the Time Ruler. On the left, above the track headers, the Composition Frame Rate is shown. The simplest way to move the Playhead Cursor within the Timeline is to position the mouse I-beam cursor anywhere along the Time Ruler and Click.
Locator Tab Page Locator page The Locator Tab Page displays all the Locators set in the Composition. In the upper section thumbnails of all set locators are displayed. Any change in the Timeline edit is reflected in the Locators thumbnails immediately. The Tab Page can be resized by clicking and dragging on the edges or the bottom right-hand corner. Double-Clicking on any of the thumbnails locates to that position. Timecode The field shows the Timecode of the Locator selected currently.
Color Click in the Color field to open the Color Picker. Please see: Color Picker on page 16 Lock locator Click on Lock Locator to protect the selected Locator from changes. The button is checked when active. Notes Field The gray panel at the bottom of the page is a free-text field for notes. Simply Click in the field and type. Locator Bar At the top of the Timeline panel lies the Locator Bar. Locator Bar All set Locators are shown. Locators can be moved by clicking and dragging at the junction.
Locator Goto Tool As an alternative to the main Locator panel VCube offers a more compact Tool : Locator Goto Tool Open the Locator Goto Tool either by choosing Locator > Goto Tool or [Num 6] Locators can be selected in the list by clicking on them, by using the up and down cursor keys or by typing the number. Double-clicking the Locator or hitting Enter locates the transport to the Locator position and closes the Tool.
frames for the optional video output. A zero value indicates a correct setting of Disk Cache and Playback Buffers. 2. Current TimeCode position. Can also be used as a locator by double-clicking in the field, editing the existing or typing a new TimeCode value and clicking outside the field or hitting Enter. 3.
Transport > Toggle Transport Tool [T] Transport Control Panel If Sony 9 Pin Remote Control is enabled in: Settings > Format & Sync : Sony 9 Pin Remote Control Remote On is displayed. This means that the Internal Machine is controlled by the Sony 9 pin protocol serial data emanating from another device. Please see: Remote Control on page 129 If Sony 9 Pin Machine Control is enabled in the same Tab then VCube controls the external machine while chasing its TimeCode.
• Chase Offset Shows the current Chase Offset. Double-click in the field to type or edit the value. Click on the Store button to store the offset. • Store Stores the Chase Offset displayed in the Chase Offset field. • LTC When checked the Linear TimeCode Input is used as the reference. • VITC When checked the VITC (Vertical Interval Timecode) in the Video is used as the reference. • Delta The field indicates any discrepancy between the VCube current location and where it should be.
Recording and Acquisition Acquisition In many applications recording will be unnecessary. In these cases Compositions can be created by importing projects in formats such as AAF. Please see: Import on page 34. Alternatively, empty Compositions can be created and Media Files imported using the Media File Browser. Please see: Media Management on page 42. Recording Note: When Record : Enable is checked Quick SD Settings and Quick HD Settings are unavailable.
12345678 Click on the numbered buttons to arm Audio Channels for recording. Here, Channels 1 & 2 are armed. The number of Audio Channels available will depend on the hardware. Multiple Audio Channels appear as Layers in a single Audio Track. Auto Edit When lit, Auto Edit Mode is active.
MPEG *.m2t MXF *.mxf QuickTime *.mov Note: If Quicktime, MPEG mpg or mpeg are selected then a single audio + video file will be produced. Frame Rate The field shows the Frame Rate selected currently. Click on the down arrow to select an alternative. Compression The field shows the type of Compression selected currently. Click on the down arrow to select an alternative. The exact composition of the list will depend on options purchased.
MJPEG codec. A 100 value corresponds to an average 1/3 compression ratio, and a 50 one to an average 1/20 compression ratio. Audio File Format The field shows the current File Format. The drop-down list offers a choice of formats from the following depending on the wrapper chosen. If both Video and Audio are of the same type, e.g.
Editing Scope Editing in VCube is not intended to replace an NLE. It is basic and intended to facilitate the editing required when using Video for playback and presentation. Editing in the Timeline The Timeline is the place in VCube where Audio and Video Clips can be edited, faded up and down and otherwise arranged into an audio visual Composition. Clips in a Composition Clips in a Composition are just pointers to the original audio and video Media File(s).
Note: A Group including a Video clip is constrained to a one-frame grid. Nudge [Ctrl + UP or DOWN] Moves the Selected Clip(s) Up or Down a Layer. If the destination Layer already has a Clip the Clip moved is laid over the existing Clip for the duration of the moved Clip. If transparency is set appropriately both will be visible. [Shift + UP or DOWN] Invokes Nudge Overwrite mode for Selected Clip(s). The Clip moved will overwrite an existing Clip in a layer for the duration of the Clip moved.
Trim To trim the In or Out points of a Clip, just use the six handles on the selected element. Trim handles On the left: The bottom handle controls the In point for the selected element. The center one just moves the fade in without shifting the Clip content. The top one enables you to create a real time fade in when moved to the right. If you use [Ctrl] the fade can be adjusted symmetrically.
Edit Context Menu Right-Clicking on the Selection displays a contextual menu with editing functions: Edit context menu Cut [Ctrl + X] Cut & Ripple [Ctrl + Shift + X] Copy [Ctrl + C] Paste [Ctrl + V] (only available if the Clipboard isn't empty) Paste & Ripple [Ctrl + Shift + V] (only available if the Clipboard isn't empty) Paste at Previous TimeCode [Ctrl + M] (only available if the Clipboard isn't empty) Paste To original TC (only available if the Clipboard isn't empty) Send Selection to Ma
Motion Rectangles (PiP) Motion Rectangles enable a Layer’s position and size to be altered. The Motion Rectangles interface is only visible on the computer screen. The Video Output only displays the results. This feature can be useful when different versions of the same video or film project need to be compared. When used in combination with the Import Composition function, 2 versions of the same video or film project can be compared on a single screen without rendering.
Motion Source Editing 2. [Alt + Click and Drag] a red handle or handles to crop the image if required. 3. Press Enter to accept the Source Rectangle changes and close the pane. 4. [Shift + Click and Drag] a red corner handle to reduce the Destination Rectangle to the size desired. 5. [Click + Drag] the center red handle to position the Destination Rectangle as required 6. Press Enter to accept the Destination Rectangle changes.
[Alt + Click and Drag] Both Source and Destination Rectangles can be cropped by using [Alt + Click and Drag] on resize handles. This permits the useful part of the source Layer to be chosen while preserving the geometry and the field order if the selected window is not moved. Resize [Click and Drag] the external handles to adjust rectangle size. [Shift + Click and Drag] the external handles to adjust rectangle size while preserving the aspect ratio.
Watermark and Text Watermark, Copyright and Text Clips can be added to a Composition. These functions are useful for security and other purposes. Watermark Overview The Watermark function enables a still image and or Copyright Text to be added to the current Composition. Simply load a still image file (with alpha channel supported) and or enter and position the Copyright Text. A Watermark image file must be of the same dimensions as the desired output video format to avoid real-time stretching.
Vertical Offset Offsets the text by the number of pixels typed in the box downwards or upwards depending on the anchor position chosen above. When xxx - Center is chosen no offset is possible. Color The field shows the color selected currently. Click in the field to pop-up a color picker. Please see: Color Picker on page 16 Note: Watermark, when activated, is present on all video outputs (both computer screen and video card). No VCube feature, including Mask can hide it.
Text Clip There are two types of Text Clip The only differences between the two is the text pre-entered and the Font size etc. To create a Text Clip or a Sticky Clip: Edit > Auto Create > New Text Clip, [Shift + T] Creates a new 5 second Text Clip in the Layer selected currently. Edit > Auto Create New Post-it (Text Clip), [Alt + T] Creates a new 5 second Text Clip in the Layer selected currently. Double-Click on the Text Clip created in the Timeline to open the Clips Info Tab.
Italic Bold Italic Underline Strike out Field shows current selection. Determines how excess text which will not fit in the Text Box will be dealt with. Please see: Trimming Setting on page 71 Trimming Alignment Field shows current justification. Click to drop-down list of alternatives: Line Alignment Left Center Right Field shows current Line Alignment. Click to drop-down list of alternatives: Top Center Bottom Field shows current Text Color.
[UP], [DOWN] [LEFT] and [RIGHT] keys can also be used to move the rectangle. [Ctrl + UP], [Ctrl + DOWN], [Ctrl + LEFT] and [Ctrl + RIGHT] keys resize the rectangle. In this mode the Top Left handle is the fixed reference point. [Shift + UP], [Shift + DOWN], [Shift + LEFT] and [Shift + RIGHT] keys resize the rectangle. In this mode the Bottom Right handle becomes the fixed reference point. Move [Click and Drag] the central handle to adjust rectangle position.
Generated Clips Countdown Clips, Wipe Clips, Video Test Pattern Clips, and Audio Tone Clips can be generated by the VCube application from Edit > Auto Create : or the Tool Bar. Pyramix ADR capabilities can create Wipe and Countdown clips automatically in the VCube Timeline. This feature either works internally in a PyraCube machine or uses the network connection between separate Pyramix and VCube machines to send the corresponding information.
Once created in the Timeline, Double-click on the Clip to access its settings in Clip Info: Clip Info - Countdown Settings Clips The fields in this section are the same as for standard Video or Audio Clips. However Clip Name appears on the Countdown overlay just below the Count number : Clip Name Field shows the current Clip Name. Click in the field and type to rename. Countdown Font Name Field shows Font selected currently. Click to drop-down a list of all fonts available on the system.
Center Right Field shows current Line Alignment. Click to drop-down list of alternatives. Default is Center. Line Alignment Top Center Bottom Field shows current Text Color. Click to open the Color Picker. Please see: Color Picker on page 16 Text Color Text Opacity The field is a slider showing the current opacity between 1 and 255. Click and drag the slider to change the value. Back Color Field shows current Text box Background Color. Click to open the Color Picker.
Once created in the Timeline, Double-click on the Clip to access its settings in Clip Info: Clip Info - Wipe settings Clips The fields in this section are the same as for standard Video or Audio Clips. However Clip Name appears on the Wipe overlay just above the Wipe : Clip Name Field shows the current Clip Name. Click in the field and type to rename. Countdown Comments Free text field. Click in the field and type. Color Field shows current Wipe Color. Click to open the Color Picker.
Once created in the Timeline, Double-click on the Clip to access its settings in Clip Info: Clip Info - Video Test Pattern chooser Video test Pattern Pattern Type Field shows the Test Pattern selected currently. Click to access the list of patterns available. Audio Tone clip Audio Tone Clips can be generated automatically by VCube.
Control Settings Page The Control Settings Page gives access to the main settings for the VCube working environment. User Interface > Toggle Show/Hide Settings [F2] Brings up a Pane to the right of Preview with all the Control Settings Tabs down the left-hand side. Preview is resized to suit and the size of the Pane can be adjusted by hovering over the left and bottom splitters (borders).
• Click on the down arrow in the header to see all the Tabs in the Folder, Click on the desired entry to open. Tab Icons with text labels drop-down list • or Click directly on one of the Icons to the right of the header • or Click on the Left Right arrows far right on the header to step forwards and backwards through Tabs. Individual Tabs The Control Settings Tabs can also be accessed individually via Menus and shortcuts. When accessed this way they appear as broken away windows.
VCube Compositions File Tab The Compositions Tab can also be opened on its own with File > Open [Ctrl + O] Composition Path Field shows the current Path ... Opens a Windows browser to change the Path to a location on local storage or via a network. ^ Up arrow steps up the path tree to the root directory. Refresh Updates the list of Files in the current location [F5] Recursive When checked all Composition Files in the folder specified will be shown including those in sub-folders.
Save saves the current Composition using the current Composition name. [Ctrl + S] Save As Opens a Windows browser to enable the Composition to be with a new name or to a new location. This feature is useful since it enables you to save many versions of the same Composition with different names. [Ctrl + Shift + S] Close Aborts the current Composition. Any edit decisions made since the last time the Composition was saved are discarded.
Video Clip Video Clip Info Clips In this section every information field is editable by either Double-clicking in it and typing or selecting from the drop-down where there is a down arrow at the end of the field. Clip Name Shows the name used in the Timeline.
Source In is the original TimeCode in point for the Clip in the current Composition. Double-click in field to modify. Length is the Clip's duration in the current Composition. Double-click in field to modify. Fade In is the length of the Clip's fade in for the current Composition. Double-click in field to modify. Fade Out is the length of the Clip's fade out in the current Composition. Double-click in field to modify.
Note: All options for Clips listed above are shown as a small icon inside the Clip in the Timeline when at anything other than the default value. Clip options icons Media File browser Media Name Could be different from the Media File name. (In an OMF Composition) Media File Shows the path to the Media File. Frame Rate is the original Media File frame rate. Original TimeCode is the TimeCode stamped in the Media File at its creation. Length is the total duration of the Media File.
Audio Clip Audio Clip Info Clips Clip Name Shows the name used in the Timeline. Source In Is the original TimeCode in point for the Clip in the current Composition. Double-click in the field to modify. Length Is the Clip's duration in the current Composition. Double-click in field to modify. Fade In Is the length of the Clip's fade in for the current Composition. Double-click in the field to modify. Fade Out Is the length of the Clip's fade out in the current Composition.
Audio Word Length Is the original Media File Bit Depth Original Timecode The Timecode stamped into the Media File when it was created.
Re-link Media Re-link Media The Re-link Media button will appear if one or more Media Files are missing or offline (Zebra Clips in the Timeline). Clicking on the button opens the VCube: Searching for Media File... dialog : VCube: Searching for Media File...
Import Path Click on the ... button to open a Windows browser Window. Use this to navigate to the location you believe contains the missing Media File(s) Add Adds the location selected to the search path. Remove Click on a path in the main pane to select it. Click on Remove to remove it from the list of search paths. (Useful if you inadvertently select a root directory with many thousands of files, which would take forever to search.
Workspace Workspaces Workspaces are a convenient means of storing alternative desktop layouts. The main User Modes, Simple and Advanced are built in examples of Workspaces. Note: The current set of Workspaces is stored with the Project and will be reloaded with it unless excluded by a Load Selective. Note: The Workspace Tab manages Workspaces : Workspace settings Note: Use the right-hand scroll bar to view the rest of the Tab.
User Workspaces Workspace 1 to 10 Click on the G...buttons to Generate the respective Workspace. Or use [Ctrl + Key Number] Generate Workspace dialog Type a name for the Workspace and Click on OK to Generate. Workspace 1 to 10 Click on the Lo... buttons to Load the respective Workspace. Or use [Shift + Key Number] Delete All Workspaces Deletes all the Workspaces loaded currently. Reset VCube User Interface Resets the entire VCube User Interface to the factory defaults.
Simple Mode Options Workspace - Simple Mode settings Hide Nothing The drop-down list gives the choice of: Hide Nothing Hide All Hide All But Views Hide All But Settings Otherwise any of the individual Tabs listed below can be hidden in Simple Mode when the buttons are checked. Clicking on one of the Folders will also activate hide for all the panels in that folder.
Hide All Format & Sync Tabs Hide Preset Tab (not implemented) Hide Composition Audio Format Tab Hide Composition Video Format Tab Hide Synchronization - Timecode Tab Hide All Overlay tabs Hide Timecode Tab Hide Mask Tab Hide All Preview Tabs Hide Engine Tab Hide Size Tab Hide All Composition Tabs Hide General Tab Hide Watermark Tab Hide All Buffer & cache Tabs Hide Playback Buffer Tab Hide Read Cache Tabs Hide All User Interface Settings Tabs Hide Display - Manual Resize Tab Hide Language Tab Note: In Full
Clips The Clips Tab deals with manipulating and editing Clips. Edit - Clips Tab page Group Selection Groups the Selected Clips Ungroup Selection Ungroups all Clips in the current Selection when Grouped Cut Cuts all selected Clips Cut & Ripple Cuts all selected Clips and Ripples (Moves all subsequent Clips to the left in the Timeline (earlier) by the amount corresponding to the duration of the Clip(s) removed.
Layers The Layers Tab manages and manipulates Layers in Tracks. Edit - Layers Tab page New Layer Creates a new Layer on the selected track. [Ctrl +Shift + N] Move Up Selected Moves the selected item up a Layer. [Ctrl + UP] Note that moving a Layer to another Track deletes the Track if it has no remaining Layers. Note also that the Layer number is not linked to a specific Layer but to its position. Move Down Selected Moves the selected item down a Layer.
overwrite existing Video or Audio then create new Tracks, Layers and Channels to accommodate the Import and select these, one by one, to import the required material. Layers Import Properties When checked the Layer Properties will be imported Clips When checked the Clips on the selected Layer will be imported From Layer Click on the Layer you wish to import. When the button is checked, the Layer will be imported.
Settings Settings Page The Settings Tab Page gives access to the many parameter Tabs : Settings Tab page Preset [P] A VCube Preset gathers all current Settings together in a global preset. Note: The specific codec settings are not included in Presets except for the VCube MJPEG (standard) codec. Otherwise only the codec type is included and specific Settings must be made for the Project in hand. Presets (VCube Operational Settings) New, Save, Rename and Delete Work as normal.
Synchronization Video I/O Record Record Path & Capture File Name Buffer & Cache Preview Overlay Reload Reload Last Composition at Startup When checked, VCube will reload the last Composition loaded when the application is started. Creating Global Presets 1. Enable the video I/O [Shift + Alt + P] plug-in according the video card present in the machine. 2. Choose an HD or SD video standard according to your requirements.
Format & Sync One of the most important Tabs in the Settings Tab Page, Format & Sync options set the fundamental Composition and Synchronization parameters.
Audio Ref Status Note: This section will not be present except in a system with Merging Technologies Audio hardware, e.g. a Mykerinos card. Audio Ref The field shows the Audio Sync Reference Source selected Currently. Use the drop-down list to choose the source. The choices available will depend on the VCube version and the hardware available for example: Internal (Mykerinos clock) Video Input Wordclock Input Audio Input (lists all available digital audio inputs e.g. AES/EBU.
Synchronization - TimeCode (Incoming and Outgoing) TC Frame Rate Shows current TimeCode Frame Rate. Click to drop-down the full list of frame Rates. Chase TC Source Shows Current TimeCode Chase Source. Click to drop-down the list of all sources available. LTC, VITC, Sony 9-pin, Midi TimeCode (MTC) Chase Mode Shows current Chase Mode. Click to change from Hard to Soft or vice-versa Toggle Chase When checked, Chase is enabled.
Note: The Transport Panel [T] can also be used to select the TC Source for Chasing and to enable the Chase function. Midi Time Code Input When checked, Midi TimeCode (MTC) is active. Settings Opens the Midi Port Selection dialog: Midi Port Selection dialog 1. Ethernet MIDI Current Midi Port. Click to drop-down a list of available ports.
Synchronization VITC Generator Enable When checked VCube generates VITC Line 1 When checked VCube inserts VITC into the video line specified in the field. Click to select values from 10 to 39 Line 2 When checked VCube inserts VITC into the video line specified in the field. Click to select values from 10 to 39 Note: Lines 10 and 11 are often used for VITC. Alternative VITC codes are sometimes present on different lines. E.g. original and run time.
Once the plug-in has been selected it must be enabled in order to make it available for the VCube software. Please see: AJA Video Cards and Plugins on page 176 for detailed information about the various qualified Video Cards and plugins. Overlay Overlay Tab page Timecode Enable When checked a TimeCode counter is inserted into the overlay and Video output. External Timecode When checked the TimeCode Counter displays the incoming TimeCode.
Presets Shows the current TimeCode counter position on screen. Click in the field to drop-down the list of alternatives: Left - Top Center - Top Right - Top Left - Center Center - Center Right - Center Left - Bottom Center - Bottom Right Bottom Shows current horizontal TC Counter position offset value in pixels. Click to type an alternative value. X Offset Y Offset Shows current horizontal TC Counter position offset value in pixels. Click to type an alternative value.
Preview Preview shows settings that affect the way the Composition is displayed. Preview Tab page Engine Deinterleave When checked, interleaved Fields will be integrated into single Progressive Frames. Use this option if the source is interlaced and Output is Progressive. Note: Automatic video resize may produce wave-like artefacts when an interlaced Media File has to be stretched to match the output format.
Page Flipping When checked can cancel split artefacts in slow progressive mode. Depending on the model of graphic card, this function may or may not need to be enabled to allow correct refresh of the Preview area. If split artefacts are evident try the opposite setting. Size Width Information only - Set in User Interface E.g. by Click and dragging Splitters. Height Information only - Set in User Interface E.g. by Click and dragging Splitters.
Note: Preview size can also be changed by clicking and dragging the splitter under the preview pane and at the splitter between the Preview pane and the Settings pane (when visible). Preview Size Adjust Double-clicking when the Cursor is in double-headed arrow mode resets the positions to the default value corresponding to the current format.
Composition The Composition Tab includes information about Synchronization, Formats and Overlays used in the current Project. Composition Tab page General Lock Editing Prevents unwanted modifications to the Composition. This includes each and every setting except the locators. The Lock/unlock Editing button itself is locked when the Composition is Protected. Locators remain editable when the Composition is Locked . Use Save As to preserve Locators.
Protect Clicking on the Protect button opens the Protect dialog : Protect Lock dialog Type in a Password in the Enter Password and the identical one in the Verify Password fields Click on OK to Protect the Composition or Cancel to exit. Unprotect Clicking on the Unprotect opens the Unprotect dialog : Protect Unlock dialog Enter the correct Password in the Enter Password field and Click on OK to Unprotect or Cancel to exit the dialog.
Countdown & Wipe Auto Countdown to Mark In When active the countdown clock with be shown before the In marker of a range. This feature uses hidden Clips not visible in the Timeline. Auto Wipe Between Marks When active a wipe will be superimposed on the picture range between the In and Out markers. This feature uses hidden Clips not visible in the Timeline.
Buffer & Cache The Buffer & Cache manages the buffers which affect VCube performance: Buffer & Cache Settings Playback Buffer Number of Frames The drop-down list offers a choice of values between 3 and 20 frames for fine-tuning Playback performance to the specific configuration. The lower the number, the greater the demand will be on hard-disk or network streaming performance. A setting of 5 is good starting point.
User Interface The User Interface Tab brings together a number of display options. User Interface Tab page Display - Manual Resize Topmost When checked the VCube window is always on the top of all open windows on screen. Topmost Only When Floating When checked the VCube window will only be on top of all other windows when it is in floating mode. ([F4] toggles Floating mode.) Display Windows Taskbar When checked the Windows Taskbar is visible at all times in a single monitor configuration.
Chinese - Traditional English Français Deutsch Japanese Russian Encryption Locking, Encryption and Decryption of Media Files can be performed in real time by VCube. This process is based on MTAK technology. (Merging Technologies Active Key). Active Key does two things: 1. Protects non-encrypted Media Files from un-authorized use. This enables Media Files created by VCube or Pyramix to be locked out from Playback or Processing in a VCube or Pyramix Timeline by using a metadata flag in the files themselves.
Media Settings The Media Settings Tab manages the manner in which QuickTime and Mp3 files are handled by VCube.
Media Path Media destination paths point to last used Media destination paths point to default composition path QuickTime Note: You will need to restart VCube after changing these settings Import Audio When checked, embedded audio (if it exists) will be imported. Render Audio if Compressed Use Avid DNxHD codec included with QuickTime instead of VCube proprietary. When checked, supports 10 bit DNxHD files.
Feet Ruler Options Dialog Feet ruler options dialog Accessed via Settings > Show Feet Ruler Options Dialog or [CTRL + F] Foot type 16mm When checked Film Feet are counted in units of 40 Frames 35mm When checked Film Feet are counted in units of 16 Frames Frame Type Use Composition frame rate When checked the time-base is the same as the Composition Frame Rate. When unchecked the time-base can be selected from the drop-down list above.
Video Engine The VCube Video Engine Tab enables tuning to suit the circumstances Video Engine Tab page When a interlaced video format must be resized, VCube offers different algorithms to process the picture depending on the CPU capabilities or the visual quality requirements. Resize Quality The field displays the option selected currently.
Audio Outputs Quick Routing Routing of 8 first channels Applies to the first 8 Layers (Channels) in an Audio Track. Default is (Monitor Stereo) Select from the drop-down list to route to Mykerinos or AJA outputs etc. where these are installed. ASIO Driver Enable ASIO When a properly installed driver is selected Enables the driver when checked. Driver Select the appropriate ASIO Drive from the drop-down list. ASIO Panel Click on the button to access the ASIO Control Panel for the Driver Selected.
Isis Controller Enable Isis Controller When checked Isis can control the VCube in addition to the on-screen controls. Configure Click on the button to open the Isis Configuration dialog.
Tool Bar The Toolbar Contains a range of Icons for performing common tasks. Many Icons also have a ‘Tool Picker’ down arrow adjacent. Clicking on the down arrow enables the user to choose from a range of grouped tools. When a Tool picker is present the Icon displayed in the Toolbar is the last tool selected.
Show Settings Tabs Toolpicker p Toggle Transport Tool [T] Opens the Transport Control Panel Quick SD Settings [Alt + F5] Opens the Quick SD Settings Tab Quick HD Settings [Alt + F6] Opens the Quick HD Settings Tab Show Preset Tab [P] Opens the Preset Tab Show Format & Sync Tab [Alt + P] Opens the Formats & Sync Tab Show LTC / VITC [Ctrl + F2] Opens the LTC / VITC Settings Tab Show Overlay Tab [Ctrl + P] Opens the Overlay Tab Show Preview Tab [Ctrl + ALt + P] Opens the Preview Tab Sh
Show Encryption Tab [Alt + K] Opens the Encryption Tab Show Media Settings Tab Opens the Media Settings Tab Show VCube Preferred Search Directories Opens the VCube Preferred Search Directories Tab Toggle Transport Tool [T] Toggles the Transport Control Panel Open/Close Show Record Page [F12] Shows the Record Page in the lower pane Show Timeline Page [F11] Shows the Timeline in the lower panel Show Clip Info Tab [Ctrl + W] Opens the Clip Info Tab Show Shortcut Tab [Shift + W] Opens the K
View Toolpicker Toggle Show/Hide Settings [F2] Toggles the Control Settings pane Show/Hide Toggle Fullscreen Preview [F3] Toggles VCube between the User Interface and Full Screen Preview Toggle Floating Window [F4] ing floating at half size (default) Toggles VCube between the UI and Preview Float- Double Size [Shift + F5] Doubles the Floating Window size Normal Size [Shift + F6] Default - indicated by Tick Half Size [Shift + F7] Halves the Floating Window size Quarter Size [Shift + F8] Qua
Zoom In [Alt + 3] Zooms In to Timeline with each press Zoom Out [Alt + 4] Zooms Out of Timeline with each press Undo Edit [Ctrl + Z] Undo the previous Edit Redo Edit [Ctrl + Shift +Z] Redo the last edit undone Editing Tools Split Selection [Ctrl + T] Splits a Selected Clip or Clips at the current Cursor position into separate Clips Left and Right of the Cursor Edit Cut Toolpicker Cut [Ctrl + X] Deletes the selected Clip(s) Cut & Ripple [Ctrl + Shift + X] Clips to the Left (earlier) by the
New Track Toolpicker New Video Track [Ctrl + Shift + T] Inserts a New Video Track New Audio Track [Ctrl + Alt + T] Inserts a New Audio Track New Clip Toolpicker New Text Clip [Shift + T] Creates a 5 seconds Text holder Clip in the Timeline at the current TimeCode in the selected Track. The Text Properties dialog appears in the View Tab. New Post-it (Text Clip) [Alt + T] Creates an overlaid text box of 5 seconds duration from the current Cursor position in the selected Track.
Nudge Tools Move Layer Up [Up] Move Selected Layer Up [Ctrl + Up] Move Selection Up [Shift+Ctrl+Up] nudge track [Down] Move Selected Layer Down [Ctrl + Down] Move Selection Down [Shift+Ctrl+Down] nudge track Nudge Playhead Left Nudge Playhead Right [Left] [Ctrl + Left] Nudge Selection Left [Shift+Ctrl+Left] Nudge Overlap Left [Right] [Ctrl + Right] Nudge Selection Right [Shift+Ctrl+Right] Nudge Overlap Right Mark and Fade Toolpicker Set Mark In [Num 7] Set Range In marker Set Mark Out
Goto Previous Edit [Shift + Tab] Lock and Group Toolpicker Lock Selection [Ctrl + K] Locks Selected Clip(s) Unlock Selection [Ctrl+Shift+K] Unlocks Selected Clip(s) Group Selection [Ctrl + G] Groups Selected Clips Ungroup Selection [Ctrl + U] Ungroup Selected Clips Ungroup All [Ctrl+Alt+U] Ungroup all Groups in Composition Tool Bar : Tools and Toolpickers Page 126
Applications Non Compensated Telecine at 24 fps A non-compensated telecine can be used with VCube. A film frame corresponds to a video frame, VCube can playback a 25 fps video capture at 24 fps in order to respect the real duration of the film and to avoid typical pitch/time audio processing. After a regular PAL capture, the Composition must be set to 24 fps. The fps information embedded in the Media File cannot be changed from 24 fps to 25 fps to give correct playback.
Using the Graphic Card S-Video Output The baseline VCube does not include a dedicated video card. However it is possible to use the S-Video output of a graphic card to feed a video monitor. Open the Graphic Card Control Panel from the Windows desktop. In Display Properties see the Settings page. Only screen one should be used. Now click on Advanced. In the Monitor Tab, uncheck Hide modes that this monitor cannot display. In the Displays Tab enable Monitor (computer) as Main and TV (S-Video output) as Clone.
Remote Control VCube is extremely versatile in its remote control options. Apart from the obvious synergy with Pyramix via Virtual Transport, VCube can chase TimeCode, be controlled by a Sony 9-pin (P2 protocol) master and accepts MIDI Machine Control commands via Virtual Transport. VCube Chasing Pyramix Via Virtual Transport in the Same PC (PyraCube) VCube can be remote controlled by and chase Pyramix when both applications are installed in the same PC. 1.
VCube Chasing Pyramix Using Virtual Transport Via Network VCube can be remote controlled by and chase Pyramix across a network via Virtual Transport. When Synchronize Editing with Pyramix is active in the Composition Tab every Video Clip handle move in Pyramix will be visible in the VCube outputs. The frame displayed while moving handles is at the TC position of the handle moved in Pyramix. Network must be enabled in Virtual-Transport. [Alt + V] opens the Virtual Transport Server User Interface.
Virtual Transport Network Frame 3. Open the Format & Sync Tab on the VCube workstation : Formats & Sync Tab - Synchronization section Follow VT Checked VCube as VT “Clock Master” Checked 4. Open Settings > All Settings : Remote Control > Virtual Transport 5. In the General section: Enable Virtual Transport Communication Checked Automatically Set as Clock Master Checked Automatically Set as TimeCode master Checked 6.
Remote Control VCube with a Sony 9-pin Controller VCube can be remote controlled by a Sony 9-pin compatible device. 1. In the Format & Sync Tab : Synchronization section configure as below: Formats & Sync Tab - Synchronization section Toggle Chase Unchecked Sony 9 Pin Remote Control Checked 2. The RS-422 configuration switch must be set to From Controller if you use the RS-422 port. This port is named COM3 in the Settings dialog.
Synchronizing VCube to a Sony 9-pin Chase Synchronizer VCube can chase a Sony 9-pin Chase Synchronizer. 1. In the Format & Sync Tab : Synchronization section configure as below: Formats & Sync Tab - Synchronization section Toggle Chase Unchecked Sony 9 Pin Remote Control Checked 2. The RS-422 configuration switch must be set to From Controller if you use the RS-422 port. This port is named COM3 in the Settings dialog.
VCube Controlled by Sony 9-pin, Chasing an LTC Source VCube can be controlled by Sony 9-pin while chasing an LTC source. 1. In the Format & Sync Tab : Synchronization section configure as below: Formats & Sync Tab - Synchronization section Chase TC Source LTC Toggle Chase Unchecked Sony 9 Pin Remote Control Checked 2. The RS-422 configuration switch must be set to From Controller if you use the RS-422 port. This port is named COM3 in the Settings dialog.
Synchronize VCube with an LTC Source VCube can chase an LTC source. 1. In the Format & Sync Tab : Synchronization section configure as below: Formats & Sync Tab - Synchronization section Chase TC Source LTC Toggle Chase Checked Or set from the Transport Tool : Transport Tool - Internal Machine 2. In this configuration Video and Audio References are optional.
Synchronize VCube with a VITC Source VCube can chase an LTC source. 1. In the Format & Sync Tab : Synchronization section configure as below: Formats & Sync Tab - Synchronization section Chase TC Source VITC Toggle Chase Checked Or set from the Transport Tool : Transport Tool - Internal Machine 2. In this configuration Video and Audio References are optional.
Machine Control VCube Controlling & Chasing a Sony 9-pin VCube can remote control and chase another machine via Sony 9-pin (P2 protocol) commands. The following configuration can be used during capture: 1. In the Format & Sync Tab : Synchronization section configure as below: Formats & Sync Tab - Synchronization section Chase TC Source Sony 9 Pin Toggle Chase Checked Sony 9 Pin Machine Control Checked 2. The RS-422 configuration switch must be set to To Machine if you use the RS-422 port.
3. The 9-pin machine is controlled from the VCube Transport Control Panel : Transport Control Panel Vcube Chases TimeCode from the target machine. Note: Ensure that the Reference Video Input on the synchronization panel of the VCube, and the Video Card Reference Input are referenced to the same genlock, black&burst, or video signal. This is the only way to ensure precise timing for video signal. Note: The Record button in the Internal Machine control panel must be enabled only when "Chasing...
Conversion and Rendering Note: When VCube executes Conversion or Rendering processes, the current Composition frame rate is used. Export XML VCube Compositions can be exported as .xml files. This feature enables Timelines to be exchanged between the last generation of Merging Technologies software (Pyramix or Ovation). To export XML choose: • File > Export • The Export Composition File Browser opens. • Navigate to the desired destination folder or create a new one.
Main Convert Media Files dialog Main tab page Output Output Path xxxxxx ... Shows current path for output file(s). Click on... to open a browser to change the path. Log When active a window will appear at the end of the conversion process reporting success and listing any anomalies. Overwrite Existing Files When active existing files in the target folder with the same filename will be overwritten automatically.
Proceed Click on this button to execute the conversion. Cancel Click on this button to cancel the conversion and close the dialog. Video Convert Media Files dialog Video tab page As with other VCube settings dialogs, clicking on a field with a down arrow pops up a list of choices available. File Format Determines the file type of the video Media File to be generated. None Cube (*.cube) AVI (*.avi) MPEG (*.mpg) MPEG (*.mpeg) MPEG (*m2v) MPEG (*m1v) MPEG (*m2t) QUICKTIME (*.
Compression Enables the user to select which codec will be used to generate the new Media File(s). Depending on the codec chosen, Compression Settings may be available in Advanced Settings. The exact contents of the list will vary according to the selected File Format, the keys you have purchased and the Windows codecs you have installed.
Single Field Word length Currently limited to 8 bits fix Bit Format Down Sampling Shows the color sub-sampling scheme. Please see: Color Sampling on page 198 Pixel Aspect Ratio May be filled in automatically by the choice of Compression codec or choose from the list below: Square Pixels 1.0 D1/DV NTSC (0.9) D1/DV NTSC Widescreen 16: 9 (1.2) D1/DV PAL (1.067) D1/DV PAL Widescreen 16: 9 (1.422) HDV - DVCProHD 720p (1.333) DVCProHD (1.5) Anamorphic 2 : 1 (2.0) Cinemascope (2.35) D4/D16 Standard (0.
Audio Convert Media Files dialog Audio tab page File Format The drop-down list offers a choice of formats from the following depending on the wrapper chosen. determines the type of the generated Media File for audio. If both video and audio are of the same type, they are merged inside a single Media File : None AVI (*avi) MPEG (*mpg) MPEG (*mpeg) MPEG (*mpa) PMF (*pmf) WAV (*wav) BWF (*bwf) AIF (*aif) SD2 (*.sd2) QUICKTIME (*.
Compression Options depend on selected audio file format. QuickTime offers various solutions for compressing audio data. Note: The AVI2 and QuickTime MPEG2 Media Handler support multiple audio channels in a single file. When recording more than 2 channels in an AVI2 or QuickTime file, each channel is treated as a separate mono channel. I.e. if you have 4 channels in VCube, they will appear as 4 mono channels in an AVI2 file.
Render Composition Dialog Main : Render Composition dialog Main tab page Output Output Path xxxxxx ... Shows current path for output file(s). Click on... to open a browser to change the path. File Name Click in this field to type a suitable name for the output Media. Log When active a window will appear at the end of the conversion process reporting success and listing any anomalies. Range All Composition When selected, the whole Composition will be rendered.
Presets Complete sets of render settings can be saved as presets and reloaded for future use. Drop-down The drop-down list shows a list of all Presets available. New Highlights the Drop-down field inviting entry of a new name. Use Save immediately afterwards to create the new Preset. Save Saves the current Settings to the Preset shown in the Drop-down field. Rename Highlights the Drop-down field inviting entry of a new name for the current Preset.
Wrap Audio The Media Wrapper feature enables Audio files to be embedded in to a new file without decoding and re-encoding the video of the original file. A new Media File with embedded Audio is created. The Media Files to be wrapped (one Video, up to eight Audio) correspond with the Clips selected in the Timeline. Any Audio and Video Files which play in the Timeline can be encapsulated in MXF, AVI or QuickTime wrappers provided the output format supports the original file format(s).
Audio Word Length Mutually exclusive buttons to determine bit depth in the Output file. 16 or 24 bits Output Output Format Use Original Timecode Field shows the current Output Format. Click to drop-down the list of alternatives MXF QuickTime Avi When checked, Output file will correspond to original Video file TimeCode stamp. Use Clip Position Timecode When checked, the current TimeCode of the Video Clip in the Timeline will be used in the wrapped file.
Frame Rate Management The VCube application can manage different frame rates for Media Files, Composition, and TimeCode. For Conversion or Rendering Processes, VCube uses the current Composition frame rate. Media File Frame Rate Differs From Composition Frame Rate If the Media File's frame rate is lower than the Composition frame rate, some frames will be duplicated. If the Media File frame rate is higher than the Composition's frame rate, some frames will be dropped.
QuickTime Under Construction QuickTime is a very popular file format (Media Handler) for audio and video media. QuickTime 7.4 or above MUST be installed to allow VCube to manage this file format. VCube features complete support of QuickTime for both Playback and Record/Render/Convert Media Files. Any QuickTime specific codec can be used in VCube for both Playback and Record/Render/Convert Media Files once installed on your VCube machine.
Note: Selecting QuickTime as the file format for both video and audio generates a single QuickTime file including both video and audio. Note: When using the H264 codec for rendering or conversion, the Keyframe and Data Rate limitation must be unchecked. Please check also that the frame rate reflects the Composition frame rate. VCube also features some codecs (DVCPRO / DVCPRO-HD / MJPEG / YUY2) that may also be used to produce QuickTime files.
MXF VCube supports standard definition and high definition MXF formats for playback at NTSC or PAL frame rates. SD Files must be encoded with UYVY, DV, DVCPro 50 (dv50), MJPEG, or D-10 (AKA Sony IMX) codecs. HD files must be encoded with DVCPro 100 (dv10), VC-3 (aka AVID DNxHD), AVC-Intra (aka Panasonic P2), or MPEG2-HD (aka Sony XDCAM-HD) codecs. VCube can render or wrap MXF files using all the supported codecs listed above. Due to real-time constraints, Record is not available for AVC-Intra.
Menus File New Open Close Save Save As Capture Import> Media File Browser Composition (Create new) Composition (Add to Existing) Import Composition & Export Changes Import Layer Convert Still Images Export> Export Composition Convert Media Files Render Composition Wrap Audio Publish to Ovation Publish to Ovation as New Cue Exit the Application Menus : File Page 154
Edit Undo Edit Redo Edit Cut Cut & Ripple Copy Paste Paste & Ripple Paste to Previous Timecode Paste to Original Timecode Auto Create> New Video Track New Audio Track New Layer New Text Clip New Post-it (Text Clip) New Countdown Clip Menus : Edit Page 155
New Wipe Clip New Audio Tone Clip New Video Test Pattern Nudge> Nudge Left Nudge Right Nudge Up Nudge Down Nudge Overlap> Nudge Left Overlap Nudge Right Overlap Nudge Up Overlap Nudge Down Overlap Tracks> Nudge Up Track Nudge Down Track Send> Trim> Fade> Delete Delete Track(s) or Layer(s) Split Selection Group Selection Ungroup Selection Ungroup All Lock Selection Unlock Selection Selection Range to region Select Previous Layer Select Next Layer Select All Clips on Selected Layers Select All Clips Menus
Unselect All Clips Zoom Zoom In Zoom Out Fit Selection Zoom Zoom Undo Locator Set Mark In Set Mark Out Set IN/Out Marks to Selection Goto In Goto Out Set New Locator Move Selected Locator to Cursor Locator Goto Tool Goto Previous Locator Goto next Locator Auto Create> Auto Create Locators - All layers (Destructive) Menus : Zoom Page 157
Auto Create Locators - Selected Layer (Destructive) Auto Create Locators - Selected Layer (Add) Goto Goto Composition Start Goto Composition End Goto In Goto Out Locator Goto Tool Goto Previous Locator Goto Next Locator Goto Next Edit Goto Previous Edit Goto TC Goto Foot Frame Cursor Step> Step Forward 1 Frame Step Forward 1 Second Step Forward 10 Seconds Step Forward 1 Minute Step Backward 1 Frame Step Backward 1 Second Step Backward 10 Seconds Step Backward 1 Minute Menus : Goto Page 158
Transport Toggle Transport Tool Toggle Chase Turns Chase On/Off.
Settings Quick SD Settings Quick HD Settings Show Record Settings Tab Show Record Log Tab Show Preset Tab Show Format & Sync Tab Show Mykerinos Settings Tab Show LTC/VITC Show Video I/O Tab Show Overlay Tab Show Preview Tab Show Composition Tab Show Footage Ruler Options Dialog Show Buffer & Cache Tab Show User Interface Tab Menus : Settings Page 160
Show Encryption Tab Show Media Settings Tab Show Timeline Tab Show Isis Controller Tab Show VCube Preferred Search Directories Show All Settings Restart in Software Only Mode User Interface Refresh Updates the list of Media Files in a specific location.
Show VCube Files Opens the VCube Compositions Browser in a floating Tab Window Show Media File Browser Tab Opens the Media File Browser in a floating Tab Window View> Show clip Info Tab Show Shortcut Tab Show Workspace Tab Edit> Show Edit Main Show Clip Edit Show Layer Edit Show Track Edit Settings> Show Preset Tab Show Format & Sync Tab Show Video I/O Tab Show Overlay Tab Show Preview Tab Show Composition Tab Show Buffer & Cache Tab Show user Interface Tab Show Isis Controller Tab Show Encryption Tab Sho
Quarter Size Toggle Show/Hide Settings Toggles the Control Settings Tab pane Show/Hide in the right-hand side of the Preview Pane Show Shortcut Tab WorkSpace> Load> Load Workspace 1 to... Load Workspace 10 Generate> Generate Workspace 1 to... Generate Workspace 10 UI Mode: Simple UI Mode: Advanced Toggle transport Tool Show Timeline Page Show Record Page Help The Help Menu gives quick on-line access to this document. Check For Updates goes online to check for more recent versions of the VCube Software.
Output View The Output Page is one of the three Tabs below the Toolbar. It can also be accessed by [Ctrl + F7] This Page is intended to help expert users to fine tune their VCube configuration to suit local circumstances. There are five Tabs: System Output Page - System System displays processor and memory activity. On Pyracube systems running MassCore expect to see one or more cores maxed out. This is a function of how MassCore works and is not a matter for concern.
Playback Info Output Page - Playback Info Disk access performance is monitored here for both Audio and Video. The Buffers size must be set to ensure an Average Read Time lower than the frame display time. 40 ms for 24/25 fps and 30 ms for 30 fps. Sync Status Output Page - Sync Status Shows all video, audio, synchronization and clock status’.This panel also appears when clock, format or sync are inconsistent.
Sync Status with XENA LH and USB Sync Option Output Page - Sync Status If the USB Sync Reference Source is Video, one of the following statuses is possible : • Locked to the Video: • Locked to the Video but the framerate is incompatible with the video framerate: • No video present or video is not decoded: If the reference source is Internal : If the reference source is LTC : Output View : Help Page 166
Audio Meters Output Page - Audio Meters Shows audio Playback levels.
Troubleshooting Read Drops During Playback If Read Drops occur during playback, the Disk Cache must be adjusted. Settings > Show Buffer and Cache Tab : Local Read Cache. For replay from a local disk this value should be set to around 64k. Network Read Cache if streaming over a network this value should be set to around 8k. These values may vary depending on the specific network or storage configuration and the video format.
If you plan to use the video output to feed an additional monitor, settings must be made as in the following screen shots. Matrox Video Playback Settings Matrox PureVideo/DVDMax Settings Depending of the BIOS version of the Matrox graphic card, Preserve source cropping may require disabling to ensure correct video output.
Frozen Image on Matrox Parhelia Output Problem: The Matrox Parhelia graphic card video output is frozen but the preview display is OK in VCube. Solution: Ensure that the settings of the graphic card are in accordance with this screen shot. Matrox PureVideo/DVDMax Settings If Scale only on page flip is enabled in the Matrox dialog then Settings > Show Preview Tab : Page Flipping must be active in the Composition enable the Matrox graphic card video output.
Poor HD Image Quality Problem: The PQ (Picture Quality) on screen does not come up to expectations when using an HD video projector plugged into the graphic card output. Images are stepped on diagonals and curves (Jaggies). They also features a random horizontal slice on rapid movements. Horizontal Slicing and jaggies Solution: Ensure the Composition settings correspond to the HD format used. Double-click on the video clip in the Timeline to display Clip Info.
Sony 9-pin Not Controlling VCube Problem: The RS-422 configurator is set to From Controller. In Settings > Format & Sync : Synchronization - TimeCode (Incoming and Outgoing), the Sony 9-pin Remote Control is enabled and correctly set to COM3 (RS-422 connector), but VCube doesn't respond to all commands.This port is named COM2 in settings specific panel for early VCubes featuring an ASUS mother board. Solution: Be sure that the RS-422 configurator switch is set to "From Controller" if you use this port.
Video Playback is shifted Problem: VCube displays the correct image at the correct TimeCode on the PC monitor preview. But the video output is not synchronized correctly. A shift of one or more frames appears to be present on the output of the video card. Solution: 1. Ensure that both reference video input on the synchronization panel of the VCube, and the video card reference input are referenced to the same genlock, black & burst, or video signal.
User Interface with ATI Graphic Card Problem: The VCube User Interface does not refresh correctly. Some labels are missing or appear to be disabled. Solution: In Windows Advanced Display Properties, be sure that the ATI Troubleshoot Control Panel is set as on the screen shot below: Display Control Panel NTSC Video Output Exhibits Some Dropped Frames with PAL Media Files Problem: A PAL Composition or a PAL Media File is loaded using the Easy Load function into the Timeline. NTSC video output is required.
If the Media File frame rate is lower than the Composition frame rate, then some frames will be duplicated to match the number of pictures that the video engine must produce every second to feed the video card. This means that the Media File duration won't be changed when played at a higher frame rate. Note: VCube does not interpolate missing pictures to achieve the frame rate management.
Appendices AJA Video Cards and Plugins Xena LSe - SD-SDI/Analog • • • • • • • • • • 1 Input + 2 Outputs PAL and NTSC complying to SMPTE 259M (SDI) Genlock (BNC) Component/Composite/S Video Input (3 x BNC) Component/Composite/S Video Output (3 x BNC) Balanced Audio In (2 x XLR) Balanced Audio Out (2x XLR) 8 channels 24 Bit/48Khz of embedded audio (SDI) 2 AES audio channels In (1XLR) 2 AES audio channels Out (1XLR) Appendices : AJA Video Cards and Plugins Page 176
SD Video Formats Supported • PAL 4/3 D1 • PAL 4/3 DV • PAL 16/9 D1 • PAL 16/9 DV • NTSC 4/3 D1 • NTSC 4/3 DV • NTSC 16/9 D1 • NTSC 16/9 DV Notes: • SDI embedded audio cannot be captured if the analog video input is selected for recording. • The video card analog Video Reference Input is not connected internally to the VCube video Reference input. Both must to be fed by the same video reference signal.
Xena SD and Xena LS share the same LXXXena.dll plug-in. AJA Xena SD and Xena LS Plug-in Video Format switches the Xena SD card from NTSC to PAL. This format is also the output format for the Xena SD video Output. The target VTR must be capable of recording in this format. A warning message will be displayed on the Xena SD Output if the Composition format is different from the Xena SD. (E.g. an HD Composition at 24fps progressive) Audio Source can be analog, AES or SDI embedded.
Xena LHe - SD/HD-SDI/Analog • • • • • • • • • • 1 Input + 2 Outputs PAL and NTSC complying to SMPTE 259/292/296 Genlock (BNC) Component/Composite/S Video Input (3 x BNC) Component/Composite/S Video Output (3 x BNC) Balanced Audio In (2 x XLR) Balanced Audio Out (2x XLR) 8 channels 24 Bit/48Khz of embedded audio (SDI/HDSDI) 2 AES audio channels In (1XLR) 2 AES audio channels Out (1XLR) Appendices : AJA Video Cards and Plugins Page 179
SD Video Formats Supported • PAL 4/3 D1 • PAL 4/3 DV • PAL 16/9 D1 • PAL 16/9 DV • NTSC 4/3 D1 • NTSC 4/3 DV • NTSC 16/9 D1 • NTSC 16/9 DV HD Video Formats Supported • 720p 50.00 Hz • 720p 59.94 Hz • 720p 60Hz • 1080i 50.00 Hz • 1080i 59.94 Hz • 1080i 60.00 Hz • 1080p sf 23.98 Hz • 1080p sf 24.00 Hz • 1080p 23.98 Hz • 1080p 24.00 Hz • 1080p 25.00 Hz • 1080p 29.97 Hz • 1080p 30.
• This BNC connector allows you to synchronize outputs to your house reference video signal (or black burst). If you have a sync generator or central piece of video equipment to use for synchronizing other video equipment in your studio, then connect its composite output here. When Xena outputs video it uses this reference signal to lock to.
Buffer Frame Size sets the buffer size regarding the used codec (YUV, DVCPRO-HD or HDV) to optimize video performances. Audio Source can be analog, AES or SDI embedded. Video Reference Source offers the choice of which source will be selected as reference. Free Run (internal), External (Genlock) or Analog Input (video input) are possible. During capture the reference source is toggled to the active video input. Input Selection offers the choice of which source will be selected.
• 8 channels 24 Bit/48Khz of embedded audio (SDI). • PCI-Express x4 • 4:4:4* SD Formats Supported • PAL 4/3 D1 • PAL 4/3 DV • PAL 16/9 D1 • PAL 16/9 DV • NTSC 4/3 D1 • NTSC 4/3 DV • NTSC 16/9 D1 • NTSC 16/9 DV HD Formats Supported • 720p 50.00 Hz • 720p 59.94 Hz • 720p 60Hz • 1080i 50.00 Hz • 1080i 59.94 Hz • 1080i 60.00 Hz • 1080p sf 23.98 Hz • 1080p sf 24.00 Hz • 1080p 23.98 Hz • 1080p 24.00 Hz • 1080p 25.00 Hz • 1080p 29.97 Hz • 1080p 30.
Notes: • SDI embedded audio and the Merging Technologies' audio option cannot be used to capture audio simultaneously. • VCube does not use the RS422 connector on the breakout cable currently. • This card needs a HD 2K VCube because of the PCI-Express architecture. SD or early HD VCube cannot be updated with this card. Reference Input (video card): • This BNC connector allows you to synchronize outputs to your house reference video signal (or black burst).
During capture the reference source is toggled to the active video input. Audio Source can be AES or SDI embedded. External (Reference) Status displays the video format of the incoming genlock signal if present. SDI Input 1 Status displays the video format of the incoming digital video signal. Buffer Frame Size sets the buffer size regarding the used codec (YUV, DVCPRO-HD or HDV) to optimize video performance. 1 Field when Stopped must be enable to allow a stable picture for interlaced video format on stop.
• LTC In XLR • LTC Out XLR • 75 ohm switch Terminates the Video Reference Input • Video Ref In BNC Ref / VITC • Video Ref Out BNC Ref / VITC • Audio Word Clock In / OutBNC • RS-422 Config switch • RS-422 In / Out 9-pin D-Sub 15.1 Connections for synchronization RS-422 The switch labelled To Machine and From Controller helps to configure this port correctly depending on what is connected to it.
This Bi-Phase option is also supported by VCube turnkey systems. Merging Technologies USB Sync board The card can be inserted in a PCI or PCIe slot. There are no electrical connections to the slot. An internal USB cable makes the connection to the motherboard.
Easy Load Shift + L Load Selective Ctrl + Shift + L Show VCube Files Ctrl + O Close Ctrl + Shift + Q Delete Ext: + Shift + DELETE Save Ctrl + S Save As Ctrl + Shift + S Capture Alt + R Exit the Application...
New Countdown Clip New Wipe Clip New Audio Tone Clip New Video Test Pattern Clip Nudge Nudge to Left Ext: Ctrl + LEFT Nudge to Right Ext: Ctrl + RIGHT Nudge Up Ext: Ctrl + UP Nudge Down Ext: Ctrl + DOWN Nudge Override Nudge to Left Override Ext: + Shift + LEFT Nudge to Right Override Ext: + Shift + RIGHT Nudge Up Override Ext: + Shift + UP Nudge Down Override Ext: + Shift + DOWN Tracks Nudge Up Track Ext: Ctrl + Shift + UP Nudge Down Track Ext: Ctrl + Shift + DOWN Selection Range To Regi
Goto Composition Start Ctrl + NUMPAD 0 Goto Composition End Alt + NUMPAD 0 Go to In NUMPAD 4 Go to Out NUMPAD 5 Go to Locator NUMPAD 6 Go to Previous Locator SUBTRACT Go to Next Locator ADD Goto Next Edit TAB Goto Previous Edit Shift + TAB GoToTC Ctrl + NUMPAD 6 Goto Foot Ctrl + NUMPAD 5 Step Step Forward 1 frame Ext: RIGHT Step Forward 1 second Ext: + Alt + RIGHT Step Forward 10 seconds Ext: Ctrl + Alt + RIGHT Step Forward 1 minute Ext: + Shift + Alt + RIGHT Step Backward 1 fr
Show Overlay Settings Ctrl + P Show Preview Settings Ctrl + Alt + P Show Composition Settings Shift + P Show Disk Cache & Playback Buffer Settings Ctrl + Shift + P Show User Interface Settings Ctrl + Shift + Alt + P Show Isis Settings Show Encryption Settings Alt + K Show Media Settings Show Timeline Settings Show VCube Preferred Search Directories Show All Settings Ctrl + F4 Toggle VCube version User-Interface Refresh F5 Simple Mode Alt + F1 Advanced Mode Alt + F3 Show / Hide Transport
Settings Show Settings Preset P Show Format & Sync Settings Alt + P Show Video I/O Shift + Alt + P Show Overlay Settings Ctrl + P Show Preview Settings Ctrl + Alt + P Show Composition Settings Shift + P Show Disk Cache & Playback Buffer Settings Ctrl + Shift + P Show User Interface Settings Ctrl + Shift + Alt + P System Show Windows Display Settings Dialog D Show Virtual Transport Alt + V Mykerinos Show Mykerinos I/O I Mykerinos Settings Alt + I Output Show Output Page Ctrl + F7 Sh
Generate WorkSpace 5 Ctrl + 5 Generate WorkSpace 6 Ctrl + 6 Generate WorkSpace 7 Ctrl + 7 Generate WorkSpace 8 Ctrl + 8 Generate WorkSpace 9 Ctrl + 9 Generate WorkSpace 10 Ctrl + 0 Help Show Help F1 Credits...
HDTV Recorded Media SDTV Recorded Media Appendices : HDTV Recorded Media Page 194
Video Formats and Bandwidth Video formats are not just defined by the number of pixels on the screen. This section gives you some clues to understand the language video people use. As usual in electronic signals, the bandwidth is the value determining the amount of transmitted information per second. In both analog and digital worlds, this value is critical. A high definition color picture is more bandwidth demanding than a standard definition one.
Number of Pixels: The number of pixels is only a part of the equation leading to the bandwidth, storage and streaming requirements computation. But since it's a two dimensional value, we must use it as the starting point of the computations. SD Video Standards The world is divided in two zones. One using the PAL system and one using the NTSC system. The SECAM system is almost dead for production equipment and is only used in some countries for broadcasting purpose only.
HD Video Standards HD video systems exist in two main standards. The first one is 1280 pixels x 720 lines. It's also called 1K. The second one is 1980 pixels x 1080 lines. It's also called 2K. The frame rate may vary from 23.98 fps to 60 fps, leading to very different results in terms of the bandwidth used. A 720 HD video at 23.98 fps requires 22,096,303 points per second transmission and a 1080 HD video at 29.97 fps needs 62,145,792 points per second transmission.
4.4.4 means that every pixel is sampled for Chroma and Luma value. The two Chroma values are the result of: Luma minus Red value and Luma minus Blue value The RGB and 4.4,4 color sampling systems lead to a high bandwidth requirement while preserving color definition. They are used by graphics and special effects designers. The maximum Chroma information is required to avoid artefacts when the picture is processed. There are 3 values per pixel.
4.2.0 4.2.0 Is the color sampling mode used in DV PAL. It's also used for HD video broadcast. There are 6 values for 4 pixels leading to 1.5 for computation purposes. 4.1.1 4.1.1 Is the color sampling mode used in DV NTSC. There are 6 values for 4 pixels leading to 1.5 for computation purposes. Color Space Color space as a color model is an abstract mathematical model describing the way colors can be represented as numbers, typically as three or four values or color components (e.g.
• 12 bit leads to 4096 possible values • More bits for pixel sampling is only used for special cases like film color calibration and other computing intensive processes. • Linear scale means that the input value is reflected with no change to the output • Logarithmic scale is a scale of measurement that outputs the logarithm of a physical quantity instead of the quantity itself.
Inter Frame: MPEG with groups of pictures (GOPs). The use of GOPs is a very efficient way to compress video. But for post production purposes, intra frame codecs are to be preferred since every frame is individually encoded, allowing instant access with a lower computional overhead. VCube features a DV codec (compression ratio ~ 1:5) and a MJPEG codec (possible compression ratio from 1:2.4 to 1:23) if required during capture or render processes.
Video Codecs Supported Note: For DV video in QuickTime files we recommend using standard sizes such as 720x576 for PAL in order to use the Windows DV codec which is better optimized than the QuickTime DV Appendices : Video Codecs Supported Page 202
codec. The Windows DV codec does not support non-standard sizes. Note: VCube is supplied with DV and MJEPG codecs as standard. DVCPRO and MXF are options. Some codecs will require additional activation keys and or installation of third party plug-ins. Frame Rates Supported Frame Rates Supported Some frame rates may be incompatible with certain files/codecs 23.98 24.00 HD Film/HD 25.00 29.97 30.00 50.00 PAL/HD NTSC/HD HD HD 59.94 60.
Resolutions Supported SVGA Analogue or DVI Digital Graphics Card Output Formats VCube Models SE-SD SE Pro-SD SE-HD LE LE Pro XE XE Pro PAL 4/3 D1 9 9 9 9 9 9 9 9 9 PAL 4/3 DV 9 9 9 9 9 9 9 9 9 PAL 16/9 D1 9 9 9 9 9 9 9 9 9 Formats SE Pro-HD SE Pro-DD PAL 16/9 DV 9 9 9 9 9 9 9 9 9 NTSC 4/3 D1 9 9 9 9 9 9 9 9 9 NTSC 4/3 DV 9 9 9 9 9 9 9 9 9 NTSC 16/9 D1 9 9 9 9 9 9 9 9 9 NTSC 16/9 DV 9 9 9 9 9 9 9 9 9 750p 50 9 9 9 9
AJA Card I/O Formats SE-SD Formats PAL 4/3 D1 PAL 4/3 DV PAL 16/9 D1 PAL 16/9 DV NTSC 4/3 D1 NTSC 4/3 DV NTSC 16/9 D1 NTSC 16/9 DV 750p 50 720p 59,94 720p 60 1080 i 50 1080i 59,94 1080i 60 1080 psf 23,98 1080 psf 24 1080p 23,98 1080p 24 1080p 25 1080p 29,94 1080p 30 9 9 9 9 9 9 9 9 VCube Models SE Pro-SD SE-HD 9 9 9 9 9 9 9 9 9 9 9 9 9 9 9 9 9 9 9 9 9 9 9 9 9 9 9 9 9 2048x1080p 23,98 2048x1080p 23,98 2048x1080p 23,98 2048x1080p 23,98 SE Pro-HD SE Pro-DD 9 9 9 9 9 9 9 9 9 9 9 9 9 9 9 9 9 9 9 9 9 9
MJPEG Compression Ratios MJPEG Quality Average Compression Ratio 100 2.4 99 5.5 98 6.4 97 7 96 7.4 95 8.4 94 9 93 9.8 92 10.5 91 10.9 90 11.3 85 13.5 80 15.5 75 17 70 18.
Files Supported. Supported File Extensions .cube .avi .gen .omf .om .mov .qt .bmp .jpg .jpeg .tif .tiff .png .gif .emf .tga .mng .jng .psd .pcx .wbmp .j2k .jp2 .j2c .jbg .jpc .pgx .pnm .pgm .ppm .wmv .mp4 .mpg .mpeg .m1v .mpe .m2v .mpv2 .m2t .vob .mxf .dv .dif .aif .mpa .wav .bwf .pmf .ac3 .sd2 .sdii Direct Playback or Import for Numbered Still Image Sequences VCube native format Audio Video Interleave AVI is defined by Microsoft.
A still image file such as JPEG or BMP is imported as a 5 seconds Clip in the Timeline. You can of course adjust its duration with the Clip handles in the Timeline Notes: A single still image is imported as a 5 second Clip. A sequence of numbered still images is imported as one image per one video frame. Imported still images are loaded in RAM. Ctrl + I creates a regular video Media File from a sequence of numbered still images. The alpha channel is not used by this conversion.
VCD (Video CD) — This profile produces MPEG-1 output suitable for burning to a recordable CD in a special format that can be played in Video CD players, computers and many standalone DVD players. The maximum resolution for MPEG-1 VCD is 352x288 with 25 frames per second and 352x240 with 30 frames per second respectively.
Export Choosing an MPEG format in the Convert Media Files : Video : File Format field makes the Advanced Settings button available. Clicking it opens the Advanced MPEG Settings dialog : Basic Settings The Basic Settings Tab enables standards compliant MPEG2 files to be produced using only a few settings: Format type: Choose an appropriate format from the list. Format sub-type: Choose an appropriate Video bitrate (kps): Increasing this value can improve the picture quality but the file will be bigger.
Video Settings This Tab enables settings to be made for Frame rate, Aspect ratio and GOP (Group of Pictures) structure. You can also make various adjustments to the Bitrate: Frame rate: Shows current Frame Rate. Will be unavailable for change if inappropriate due to choice of Format Type in the Basic Settings Tab. Otherwise, offers a list of available Frame rates. Deinterlacing Shows current deinterlacing status. Offers a choice of Enabled or Disabled Aspect Ratio Shows current Aspect Ratio.
So you get the sequence of fields: TB TBT BT BTB or grouped as frames: TB TB TB TB TB. The above would be considered 2:3 pulldown as it is 2 fields, 3 fields, 2 fields etc. 3:2 is the reverse: frame 1: tff = 1, rff = 1 fields displayed: TBT frame 2: tff = 0, rff = 0 fields displayed: BT frame 3: tff = 0, rff = 1 fields displayed: BTB frame 4: tff = 1, rff = 0 fields displayed: TB. In this case you get the sequence of fields: TBT BT BTB TB or grouped as frames: TB TB TB TB TB.
Note: The Average (kbps) and the Minimum (kbps) bitrate settings must be zero in order to activate the Constant quantization option. Rate control mode: Shows the current Rate control mode. Click to choose between Mode 1 Standard mode (recommended) Mode 128 Experimental (will probably cause problems. Should only be used for testing.) Advanced Video Settings This Tab offers professional settings which should not be changed if you are creating MPEG streams for VCD, SVCD or DVD.
Note: We strongly recommend that changes in this section are performed only by professional users. Profile ID: Five options available: High Profile, Main Profile (standard setting), Simple Profile, 4:2:2 Profile and Multiview Profile Level ID: Four options available: High Level, High 1440 Level, Main Level (standard setting), and Low Level. The MPEG-2 spec (specification) allows for a large number of variations in the settings, e.g. the frame resolution can theoretically be as large as 2^14 x 2^14.
Noise Reduction is a specific noise filter. It reduces the noise in a frame (spatial reduction), but it doesn’t do it from frame to frame (temporal reduction). The value range is 0 ...31. It increases the video quality but also the encoding duration. Motion Search Mode: Motion search mode Defines which method is used to search for pixel movement in the video stream. A higher value specifies a better method and will normally yield better quality. The practical range is 3 to 11.
(but a very large number of bits). If you set all numbers of the matrix to 255, you will obtain a very bad picture because it has been compressed to such a degree that it will lead to a significant loss of quality. When you activate the User quant matrices checkbox you can click the Edit button in order to adjust the parameters for Matrix for Intra Block and Matrix for non-Intra Block. In the following window you can change these settings. These values must be in the range 16 ...
This option is only valid for MPEG-2. Video Format: This setting is just a flag in the bitstream to inform the decoder how the pictures were represented before encoding. If the sequence display header is not present, the decoder will assume "Unspecified video format". This setting does not affect the encoding process at all. It is part of the sequence display extension and is only used when the Sequence display extension setting is 1. See ISO/IEC 13818-2. This option is only valid for MPEG-2.
sophisticated forward quantization is not enabled. This setting can be specified independently for each frame type (I, B and P). See ISO/IEC 13818-2. This option is only valid for MPEG-2. The General option offers two more parameters you can change: Sequence End Code: If set to 1 a sequence end code is written at the end of the video stream (it terminates the stream). Normally this is set to 1, set to 0 if you intend to concatenate video streams together after encoding. See ISO/IEC 13818-2 section 6.3.
Audio Settings This Tab offers adjustments for audio export : The Audio Settings include the following options and parameters: Audio type: Shows the current Audio type. Click to change the type; None If you do not want to encode audio, select None here. MPEG-1 Layer 1 Not used commonly MPEG-1 Layer 2: Used for VCD, SVCD and PAL DVD PCM Used for NTSC DVD NTSC DVDs use LPCM (Linear PCM) audio (or AC3) as the standard audio type instead of MPEG Layer2.
Joint Stereo: This option can convert the sound to mono in the lower frequency range (which can hardly be perceived by the human ear). This results in an enhancement of the stereo quality in the median and higher frequency ranges. The setting is useful if the audio bitrate is below 200 Kbps. Dual Channel: In this case both audio channels are output separately as mono channels; it is normally used for two-channel sound. The compression of the channels takes place separately.
Multiplexer Settings In this Tab you can control whether your exported MPEG files will be multiplexed (also referred to as “muxed”). Multiplexed output means that the video and audio are exported in a single file. This Tab also offers some more professional settings for muxing. In general, the basic settings for this pane and the other advanced panes are set by the options in the Output format section of the main window.
The Mux Rate is the total bitrate, i.e. video bitrate plus audio bitrate plus muxing overhead bitrate. This option specifies the bitrate of the multiplexed program stream. Startup delays (ms): The Pack value specifies the starting TimeCode of the muxed stream (this can be different than the starting TimeCode of the video stream). It is the starting SCR (= System Clock Reference) in ms of the program stream.
A standard GOP (the default settings) are 15 (maybe 18) frames long and they look like this (in the order the frames are displayed): B B I B B P B B P B B P B B P, B B I B B P B B P B B P B B P, ... Here the first two B frames are dependent on both the I frame after them and the last P frame of the previous GOP.
Media Storage Requirements Generic Apple FCP Avid Incite Media100 Pinnacle Name MPEG2 4.2.2 MPEG2 4.2.
Installation Examples A Great Solution for Audio Post for Film This is an example of SD streaming configuration: • Pro Tools workstations control VCube via Sony 9-pin protocol. • Pyramix workstations control VCube via Ethernet (Virtual-Transport). Note that one VCube can be controlled by two editing workstations. The Video Server is fed through the network by an Avid Nitris even while audio editors are using the streaming video flow from this server.
Basic VCube Operation This is a typical VCube set up: • The network is used to synchronize VCube and Pyramix DAW. It's also used to transfer HD or SD material on the VCube's local hard disk. • A SD VCR is connected to the video input allowing SD capture. • The graphic output is connected to an HD video projector allowing compressed HD to be displayed (authorization key required) at full resolution.
ProTools & VCube Operation Appendices : ProTools & VCube Operation Page 227
Pyramix, VCube and ProTools Avid Unity and VCube VCube can import OMF Compositions and stream linked/referenced Media Files directly from a Unity server. There are two ways of accessing the Unity server: 1. Install a Fiber Channel Adapter in the VCube and connect to an available port on the server. The currently recommended Fiber Channel Adapter is the ATTO FC 3300.
2. The Unity server can include a so-called Port Server Pro which allows connection through a standard Gigabit Ethernet network. In this case just plug the VCube into this network to access the server files. Note: This configuration does not always allow for streaming Media Files very efficiently. The use of a Port Server Pro should be limited to copying files from the server to the local VCube hard disks.
Fairlight Controlling a VCube Fairlight DREAM/MFX3 Jogsh The jogsh modifier is used to modify the behavior of the DREAM Console transport when acting as a master, controlling slave 9-pin devices in jog or shuttle mode. The default setting is jogsh=1. When jogsh=0 the DREAM Console sends jog commands to the slave and then reads and chases the slave’s TimeCode. This provides uniform picture jogging but in some cases may cause excessive variations in audio jog speed.
You absolutely must disable all the generate TimeCode options in the Session Setup window as shown in the Peripheral - Machine Control screen shot.
• Minimum Sync Delay should be as small as possible (works with 15 frames on mixplus) • Enable 9-Pin Serial machine control. Select the correct Keyspan Port, Machine Type: Sony9-Pin mode, Node: If your VCube is configured correctly, ProTools should see it in the node list (as a generic2). Set ProTools film or PAL or NTSC (depending on your project). • Enable Use Serial Time Code For Positional Reference. ProTools must be supplied with a video reference signal.
Appendices : ProTools and VCube Page 233
Preferences / Machine Control tab • Disable Machine Cues Intelligently. • Enable Stop At Shuttle Speed Zero. In Session Setup : • Ensure that Serial Time Code is used as Incoming Time also ensure Video Ref is set correctly and Choose the correct fps setting.
Sony 9-Pin RS422 Wiring Chart Appendices : Sony 9-Pin RS422 Wiring Chart Page 235
Appendices : Sony 9-Pin RS422 Wiring Chart Page 236
Appendices : Sony 9-Pin RS422 Wiring Chart Page 237
Appendices : Sony 9-Pin RS422 Wiring Chart Page 238
Glossary 4.1.1 • Is the color sampling mode used in DV NTSC. 4.2.0 • Is the color sampling mode used in DV PAL. 4.2.2 • A commonly used term for a component digital video format. The details of the format are specified in the ITU-R BT.601-2 standard document. The numerals 4.2.2 denote the ratio of the sampling frequencies of the single luminance channel to the two color difference channels. For every four luminance samples, there are two samples of each color difference channel. See ITU-R BT.601-2.
4.4.4 • Similar to 4:2:2 except that for every four luminance samples, the color channels are also sampled four times. A • AES/EBU: Informal name for a digital audio standard established jointly by the AES and EBU organizations. The sampling frequency for this standard varies depending on the format being used; the sampling frequency for D1 and D2 audio tracks is 48 kHz. • alpha channel: is really a mask.
• conforming: Transferring EDL (Edit Decision List) information gathered from an off-line edit to an on-line edit for final assembly. D • D1: Sony's D1 format was the first major push towards fully digital videotape operations. D1 used a 19mm (3/4") tape loaded into cassettes as its media. Component video was encoded as YUV 4:2:2 with PCM audio tracks as well as TimeCode. D1 was notoriously expensive and the equipment required very large infrastructure changes in facilities which upgraded to this format.
H • house sync: Video sync signal generated within the studio and used as a reference for generating and/or timing other video signals. I • IMX: is the Sony implementation of the MXF for the D10 video format. • interlaced: Short for interlaced scanning. Also called line interlace. A system of video scanning whereby the odd- and even-numbered lines of a picture are transmitted consecutively as two separate interleaved fields.
N • NTSC: signal The standard composite video signal adopted by the NTSC that has 525 interlaced lines at a frame rate of 29.97 frames per second. AKA Never Twice the Same Color due to the constantly changing color rendition in early analogue TV broadcasts. O • overscan: A video monitor condition in which the raster extends slightly beyond the physical edges of the CRT screen, cutting off the outer edges of the picture. P • PAL: signal The most common composite video signal used in Europe.
Q • quantization: The process of sampling an analog waveform to convert its voltage levels into digital data. • QuickTime: is a multimedia technology developed by Apple Computer, capable of handling various formats of digital video, sound, text, animation, music. A QuickTime file functions as a multimedia container file that contains one or more tracks, each of which store a particular type of data, such as audio, video, effects, or text (for subtitles, for example).
• ruler: A graphic element of a video editing application that shows time or TimeCode along a horizontal axis. Similar to the ruler in word processing applications except calibrated in units of time. S • safe action area: and safe title area: are the regions of the video image considered safe from cropping for either the action or on-screen titles, taking into account variations in adjustments for video monitors or television receivers.
W X Y • Y, U, V: PAL luminance & color difference components. U and V are the names of the B-Y and R-Y color difference signals (respectively) when they are modulated onto subcarrier. • YUY2: see 4:2:2.
Appendices : Glossary Page 247
Index Numerics 16mm 115 16mm Feet 21 24fps Composition Chasing other Timecodes 2GB Limitation 175 35mm 115 35mm Feet 21 9-Pin RS422 Wiring Chart 236 127 Clip Info 80 Clips in a Composition Clips Tab 92 Color Picker 16 Composition File Tab Page 30 Import and Export Changes Load Selective 32 New 31 Open existing 31 Properties 32 A AAF 38 About This Manual 14 Acquisition 56 Adding Tracks and Layers 48 Advanced Mode 15 Advanced Preview 64 AJA Card I/O Resolutions 206 AJA Video Cards and Plugins 176 Alpha Ch
Edit Page 18 Edit Tab 91 Editing 60 Editing Functions 61 Editing in the Timeline Editing Tools 123 Encryption 112 Engine 104 Export 139 Export Changes 34 External TC 18 Composition and Export Changes Image Sequence 35 Layer 34 Still Image 38 incorrect Timestamp 172 Installation 13 Installation Examples 226 Interchange Protocols Supported Introduction 10 Isis Controller 117 60 Keys Fairlight Controlling a VCube 231 Feet Ruler 21 Feet Ruler Options Dialog 115 File Extensions Supported 45 File Menu 154 Fi
N Navigating the Interface 18 Navigation 49 New Clip Toolpicker 124 New Track Toolpicker 124 Non Compensated Telecine at 24 fps NTSC Frame Rates 150 Nudge 61 Nudge Tools 125 O 127 Recording 56 Recursive 43 Region 60 Re-link Media 86 Remote Control VCube with a Sony 9-pin Controller Render Composition 145, 146 Rendering 139, 145 Resize 66 Resolutions Supported 205 RS-422 187 132 S OMF 39 One Field When Stopped Options 12 Output View 164 Overlay 102 Overlay Menu 159 Overview 10 104 P Page Flipping 105
Track and Layer Order Tracks and Layers 46 47 Adding 48 Created Automatically Video Playback is shifted 173 Video Test Pattern Clip 75 Video Track Header 47 Video Tracks and Layers 47 View Page 18 View Tab 80 View Toolpicker 122 Vista 14 VITC Generator 101 VITC Reader 100 48 Tracks Tab 94 Transport Control 52 Transport Control Bar 52 Transport Control bar 17 Transport Control Panel 19 Transport Menu 159 Trim 62 Trimming Setting 71 Troubleshooting 168 W Watermark 67 Watermark and Text 67 Window size re
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Open existing 31 Properties 32 Numerics 16mm 115 16mm Feet 21 24fps Composition Chasing other Timecodes 2GB Limitation 174 35mm 115 35mm Feet 21 9-Pin RS422 Wiring Chart 235 A AAF 38 About This Manual 14 Acquisition 56 Adding Tracks and Layers 48 Advanced Mode 15 Advanced Preview 64 AJA Card I/O Resolutions 205 AJA Video Cards and Plugins 175 Alpha Channel 38 Apple Compatibility 174 ASIO Driver 117 Assumptions 14 ATI Graphic Card 173 Audio Bit Depth 48 Audio Clip Information 84 Audio Engine 116 Audio Laye
File Tab 78 Film Footage Ruler 21 Flickering Video Output 167 Floating Window 18 Follow VT 23 Follow VT Configurations 23 Footage Ruler 21 FPS Reduced 167 Frame Rate Management 149 Frame Rates Supported 203 Frame Shifting with Virtual Transport 170 Frozen Image on Matrox Parhelia Output 169 Full Screen Preview 18 Fullscreen Preview 18 G Generated Clips 72 Global Presets 96 Glossary 239 Go To TimeCode 55 Goto Menu 157 Goto Tool 52 Graphic Card S-Video Output Groups 60 Mark and Fade Toolpicker 124 Mask 103
Settings Page 18, 95 Shift Fields 104 Shortcut Tab 87 Show Settings Tabs Toolpicker 119 Show/Hide Control Settings Pages 18 Simple Mode 15 Simple Mode Options 90 Sony P2 Protocol over IP 132 split artefacts 105 Still Image File Formats 36 Still Image Import 38 Support 15 S-Video Output 127 Sync Connections 185 Sync Status Tab 164 Synchronization 23 P Page Flipping 105 Parhelia Settings 167 Picture in Picture 64 Pixel Aspect Ratio 197 Playback Buffer 110 Playback Info Tab 164 Poor HD Image Quality 170 Prese
User Interface Menu 160 User Interface Tab 111 User Workspaces 89 VITC Reader W V VCube Compositions 79 VCube Controlled by Sony 9-pin, Chasing an LTC Source VCube Controlling & Chasing a Sony 9-pin 136 VCube Hardware Sync Connections 185 VCube Player 101 VCube Preferred Search Directories 41 VCube Recorder 101 VCube SE Auto Sync Settings 24 Video Clip Information 81 Video Codecs Supported 202 Video Engine 116 Video I/O 101 Video Playback is shifted 172 Video Test Pattern Clip 75 Video Track Header 47 Vi
