FCP not limiting data rate
 

Very simple but annoying phenomenon:
I am trying to export a very short 16 second sequence: I set the QT conversion data rate to 5000kbps, but the resulting file always turns out to be 37000kbps! Why isn't the export limiting the bitrate to 5Mbps?
-Steve

Bump. Any help?

What format are you trying to output to?

QT conversion > Quicktime Movie > H.264

I don't know; I've never used that workflow but when I've entered your specs I get the nearest encoding rate possible. (see test pics) Maybe you mistakenly turned on/off another setting in the process? Or maybe FCP/QT cache is over-full and needs maintenance? (Onyx).

It's working as it should for me, so I'm not sure why it's not for you other than the possibilities mentioned above.

Thanks for you help!

What does this mean and how would I empty the cache?

Thanks!

Success! A trashing of the prefs and a reboot took care of the issue! Thanks Mr. Lane!
-Steve

Because so few actually do it I always recommend doing routine maintenance, especially when situations like yours start cropping up in weird places.

Although trashing FCP prefs and a reboot solved this particular issue the fact that cache was overflowing is an indication of more trouble coming your way. If you haven't done it already, download and run all the maintenance and cleaning routines in Onyx (free app). You'd be surprised how many things this will fix - and how stable your system becomes when used on a regular basis.