Canon to Distribute FireStore FS-4
 

02/01/2005 - Canon Distributes FS-4 DV Disk Recorder For Mini-DV Camcorders

Users Of Canon Prosumer Camcorders Can Now Save Time With The New FireStore FS-4 And FS-4 Pro Direct To EditTM(DTE) Recording Device

LAKE SUCCESS, NY, Feb. 1, 2005 — Canon U.S.A., Inc. today announced another solution for filmmakers, documentarians and videographers by becoming a distributor of the FireStore FS-4 DTE digital video-disk recorder from FOCUS Enhancements. The FireStore FS-4 and accessories will be sold through Canon U.S.A. Authorized video dealers beginning in February.

A companion for Canon prosumer camcorders, the FS-4 recorder enables DV streams to be recorded to the unit with or without a MiniDV tape inserted. Footage is recorded as edit ready files that can be imported and used immediately by most DV based non-linear editing systems, saving time, and providing a backup. The FS-4 recorder will be available in a 40GB (approximately 3 hours) model, While the FS-4 Pro recorder, which offers more advanced features will be available in 40GB and 80GB (approximately 6 hours) configurations.

"One of our main objectives for users of Canon's prosumer camcorders such as the XL2 and GL2 has always been to expand the creative visions of filmmakers," said Yukiaki Hashimoto, senior vice president and general manger, consumer imaging group, Canon U.S.A., Inc, a subsidiary of Canon, Inc. (NYSE:CAJ). "The DTE technology in the FS-4 recorder meets the very stringent requirements set by our consumers, which is why we chose to work with Focus Enhancements."

"Canon selecting FireStore Direct To Edit Technology for their disk recording needs is an important alliance for FOCUS Enhancements," said David O'Kelly, vice president of business development for FOCUS Enhancements. " We are excited that we will be further extending our acquisition solutions to Canon's broad base of creative professionals, and we look forward to a successful alliance."

The FS-4 Pro recorder adds support for the Avid OMF and Pinnacle AVI formats, and retro record modes for backup. Other features include a user definable time lapse, loop playback, scene marking, and multiple file capabilities.

The new FireStore FS-4 recorder will be available in February for the manufacturers suggested retail price (MSRP) of $799* for the standard 40GB model, while the FS-4 Pro model will be available for an MSRP of $1,195* for the 40GB model, and $1,695* MSRP for the 80GB model.

About Canon U.S.A., Inc.
Canon U.S.A., Inc. delivers consumer, business-to-business, and industrial imaging solutions. The Company is listed as one of Fortune's Most Admired Companies in America and is rated #35 on the BusinessWeek list of "Top 100 Brands." Its parent company Canon Inc. (NYSE:CAJ) is a top patent holder of technology, ranking third overall in the U.S. in 2004, with global revenues of $33.3 billion. For more information, visitwww.usa.canon.com.

About FOCUS Enhancements, Inc.
FOCUS Enhancements, Inc. (NASDAQ SC: FCSE) is a leading designer of world-class solutions in advanced, proprietary video technology. Headquartered in Campbell, CA, FOCUS Enhancements designs, develops, and markets video solutions in two distinct markets: advanced, proprietary video conversion ICs (Integrated Circuits) and affordable, high quality, digital-video conversion and video production equipment. Semiconductor products (ICs) include designs for PCs, Game Cards, Internet TV, set-top boxes, Internet appliances, and interactive TV applications, and they are sold directly to Original Equipment Manufacturers (OEMs). FOCUS' complete line of video presentation and video production devices are sold globally through resellers and distributors to the video production and Home Theater markets. More information on FOCUS Enhancements may be obtained from the company's SEC filings, or by visiting the FOCUS Enhancements home page atFOCUSinfo.com.

http://consumer.usa.canon.com/ir/controller?act=StandardDisplayAct&fcategoryid=102&keycode=camcorder_accessory

Congratulations, Matt, sounds like a very good thing.

FireStore FS-4 HD Portable DTE Recorder Announcement
 

FireStore FS-4 HD Portable DTE Recorder Announcement

FOCUS Enhancements to Unveil Industry's First High Definition Portable DTE Recorder

Featuring Direct To Edit(TM) Technology, FireStore FS-4 HD Maintains a Pure HD Signal From Acquisition and Editing to Distribution and Broadcast

CAMPBELL, CA--(MARKET WIRE)--Mar 14, 2005 -- FOCUS Enhancements Inc. (NasdaqSC:FCSE - News), a worldwide leader in video production and conversion technology, today announced it will demonstrate its new FireStore FS-4 HD and FS-4Pro HD High Definition (HD) Portable Direct To Edit(TM) (DTE) recorders at the National Association of Broadcasters (NAB) convention in Las Vegas from April 18th to 21st (Booth SL505, SL4255E).

The much-anticipated DV FireStore FS-4 is available now, and the FireStore FS-4Pro is expected to ship later this month. As the current FireStore models are upgradeable to HD, customers who purchase FS-4 and FS-4Pro on or before April 30, 2005 will be offered a special $99 (normally $299) software upgrade coupon to capitalize upon full HD functionality.

HD is quickly emerging as the standard for video, with accelerating growth in the amount of footage shot and broadcast in HD format. In addition to the current feature set and DV25 capabilities of the existing portable DTE recorders, FireStore will now record pure HD streams via FireWire from leading video products including Sony's HDV and JVC's HD camcorders and decks. FireStore then connects directly to a Mac/PC notebook or desktop, allowing video professionals to edit content directly from the FS-4 -- maintaining an HD format throughout the entire production process from capture and editing to distribution. The new FireStore is ideal for all HD-driven field applications including sporting, news, and live events.

"HD represents an exciting, new market opportunity in video distribution, with HD TVs and displays wildly preferred over older analog products," said Matt McEwen, product manager for FOCUS Enhancements. "New digital capture, editing and broadcast solutions will be the critical enabler as the proliferation of HD content increases to meet demand. FOCUS Enhancements continues to extend FireStore's leadership by integrating HD format support to the industry's most popular disk acquisition solution, giving video professionals everything they need to maintain HD integrity from glass to glass."

FS-4 HD and FS-4Pro HD enable users to switch between standard definition DV25 mode and HD mode. DV25 mode allows recordings in any one of eight or ten DTE technology supported file formats while HD mode allows 480p/576p, 720p or 1080i MPEG2 transport streams to be recorded and used immediately with supporting NLE applications.

The portable, lightweight FS-4 HD features a removable Li-Ion battery pack, sixteen front panel buttons, a back-lit status LCD display, multiple control modes, a six second retro-cache, user definable function keys, extensive playback features and support for DV25 based DTE. In addition to HD formats, FireStore supports RawDV, AVI Type 1, AVI Type 2, Matrox AVI, Canopus AVI, QuickTime, 24p QuickTime and 24p AVI Type 2. The FS-4Pro HD has the same feature set as FS-4, but also includes up to ten seconds of retro-cache, retro disk, loop record, user definable folders for scene marking, and support for additional DV25 DTE technology file formats including Avid DV-OMF and Pinnacle AVI.

Where to Buy

Prices for the FS-4 HD, FS-4 HD Pro will be announced in April 2005. FireStore HD upgrades, FS-4 HD, and FS-4Pro HD are expected to be available in the Summer of 2005 through the worldwide FOCUS Enhancements dealer and distributor network. For more information on FOCUS Enhancements and its products, please visit www.focusinfo.com.

About FOCUS Enhancements, Inc.

FOCUS Enhancements, Inc. (NasdaqSC:FCSE - News) is a leading designer of world-class solutions in advanced, proprietary video technology. Headquartered in Campbell, CA, FOCUS Enhancements designs, develops, and markets video solutions in two distinct markets: advanced proprietary video conversion integrated circuits (ICs) and affordable, high-quality, digital-video conversion and video production equipment. FOCUS Enhancements' complete line of video products are sold globally through resellers and distributors to the professional broadcast, education, cable, business, industrial, presentation, Internet, gaming, home video production and home theater markets. More information on FOCUS Enhancements may be obtained from the company's SEC filings, or by visiting the FOCUS Enhancements home page at www.FOCUSinfo.com.

Safe Harbor Statement

Statements in this press release which are not historical including statements regarding management's intentions, hopes, expectations, representations, plans or predictions about the future are forward-looking statements within the meaning of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. Such statements include statements regarding management's plans to complete its FS-4HD and FS-4ProHD High Definition Portable DTE Recorders and provide an HD upgrade path for purchasers of its FS-4 and FS-4Pro. Because these forward-looking statements involve risks and uncertainties, there are important factors that could cause our actual results to differ materially from those in the forward-looking statements. Factors that could cause actual results to differ materially include unforeseen delays in research and development, the company's ability, if at all, to introduce its HD products and upgrades in accordance with its time and cost estimates, and the risk factors specified in the company's Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2003, Form 10-Q for the period ended September 30, 2004 and other filings with the SEC. These statements are based on information as of March 14, 2005 and the company assumes no obligation to update any forward-looking statements, whether as a result of new information, future events, or otherwise.


Contact:
Contact:
_
FOCUS Enhancements:
_
Tam Chiang
VP of Marketing
408.866.8300 x106
tchiang@focusinfo.com
_
FOCUS Investors:
_
David Barnard
Lippert/Heilshorn & Assoc.
415.433.3777
david@lhai-sf.com
_
FOCUS Press:
_
Joe Kilmer
FutureWorks, Inc.
408.428.0895 x113
joe@future-works.com

FS-4 Battery Exchange
 

We are very pleased that FireStore FS-4 has now begun shipping and many customers have been able to experience the advantages of disk based acquisition with Direct To Edit technology. The feedback we have had on FS-4 thus far has been very positive and we hope to continue with this trend. One issue that has arisen with some early units is that the battery can be difficult to remove. This problem has since been corrected in manufacturing, but Focus would like to also take care of this problem with units in the field.

If customers have a unit within the serial number range of 1156 to 1536, and are experiencing difficulties removing the battery, Focus would like to invite you to return your current battery and rear cover for a replacement at no charge. Customers can contact Focus tech support at 408-370-9963 or support@focusinfo.com to organize the exchange. This offer is valid until June 30th. 2005.

Please contact Focus Enhancements technical support or customer support for further details.

Thanks,

Matt

Update...there was a mistake in this post - it is only necessary to return the battery, not the FS-4 rear plate. Sorry for the misunderstanding.
Matt

We are very pleased that FireStore FS-4 has now begun shipping and many customers have been able to experience the advantages of disk based acquisition with Direct To Edit technology. The feedback we have had on FS-4 thus far has been very positive and we hope to continue with this trend. One issue that has arisen with some early units is that the battery can be difficult to remove. This problem has since been corrected in manufacturing, but Focus would like to also take care of this problem with units in the field.

If customers have a unit within the serial number range of 1156 to 1536, and are experiencing difficulties removing the battery, Focus would like to invite you to return your current battery for a replacement at no charge. Customers can contact Focus tech support at 408-370-9963 or support@focusinfo.com to organize the exchange. This offer is valid until June 30th. 2005.

Please contact Focus Enhancements technical support or customer support for further details.

Thanks,

Matt

FS-100 Update Now Available
 

Recently there have been reports from some FS-100 users of drop-outs during recordings. Unfortunately some units shipped from our production plant with an incorrect FireWire bridge chip configuration. Focus apologizes for this problem and inconvenience, and we assure you that these drop-outs are in no way related to drive performance or future reliability, but rather a simple software error which resulted in a buffer overrun.

We have corrected this problem and posted a software update here:

http://www.focusinfo.com/support/downloads.asp

We recommend that ALL FS-100 users load this updated software, as there is no harm in doing so even if your unit is set correctly. Please download the new software (follow the software update instructions on the READ ME enclosed in the zip file) and then do a System Reset (follow instructions on page 72 of the User Guide).

Could you be a little more specific. I can't find the update in that page.

FS-100 QuickStart guide now available
 

The FS-100 QuickStart guide is now available for download at:

http://www.focusinfo.com/support/downloads.asp

It can be found under Product user Manuals.

Firmware / Version # - newer version has lower number?
 

I've downloadedthe FireStore_FS100 Updated from Focus's website and had successfully installed int onto one of our two firestores today.

I will be testing the Firestore tomorrow to see if there are any improvements - especially regarding the drop out / drop data issues.

However, in checking my version # of my FS-100 (Under Setup --> v 1.0.0.), I noticed that the updated FS-100 shows a firmware / version # that is lower than the FS-100 that wasn't updated:

Updated FS-100:
1.0.0.04052606
NTSC
FS-100

Not yet updated FS-100
1.0.0.05040706
NTSC
FS-100

I am wondering if the numbers are just indicators and that the "newer" firmware does not necessary has a higher firmware / version #.

Please help me clarify this. Thank you!

Cheers,
MK

Hi Douglas,

Under Software Downloads, the new version is the first link in the list.

Regarding your question Michael, the last set of numbers are key for the software version number...

Updated FS-100:
1.0.0.04052606
NTSC
FS-100

Not yet updated FS-100
1.0.0.05040706
NTSC
FS-100

On the Updated version, it was a SW build created on May 26, 2006. On the Non updated version, it was a SW build that was created on April 7, 2006. Hope that clears it up.

Matt

FS-100 Firmware Update 6/23
 

Hello,

A new version of FS-100 firmware is now available for download from http://www.focusinfo.com/support/downloads.asp (select Software Downloads, and it is currently the top item). This new version solves an issue for Avid users where under some circumstances, the P2 Global Clip ID was duplicated causing the Avid Media Tool to only see certain clips. This version also has the earlier FireWire bridge updater fix included (remember to do a System Reset on FS-100 once you have loaded this version!).

Thanks,

Matt McEwen

Hey Matt,

Do you know when the $39.00 update for the DR-HD100 will be available?

Thanks,

Carl

Early July. Sorry for the delay.
Matt

Thanks, Matt.

So much for the end of June...That's alright though, I don't really mind waiting since I just got it and Apple is making us wait FAR LONGER on their Pro HD support (Please don't take that long though).

I just tested the drive today, and it is incredible.

FS-100 Thumbnail and Auto-Stream Detect Version 2.0 Update Now Available
 

FS-100 Thumbnail and Auto-Stream Detect Version 2.0 Update Now Available

FS-100 firmware version 2.0 is now available as a free download from the Focus Enhancements website. The new version adds P2 thumbnail support and DV/DVCPRO, DVCPRO 50 and DVCPRO HD autostream detect.

P2 thumbnail support adds the ability to view a thumbnail of each clip in the import or viewer window on supported NLE systems and the P2 Viewer software. Unfortunately, thumbnails are not viewable on the Panasonic AG-HVX200 as thumbnails over FireWire is not a supported feature of the camera. However, if you would like to view clips back on the HVX200, simply switch the camera to VTR mode, press the thumbnail button on the top of the camcorder and then use FS-100's controls for playback.

Autostream Detect will automatically switch FS-100 between DV/DVCPRO, DVCPRO 50 and DVCPRO HD as these modes are switched on the AG-HVX200.

Earlier patches that fixed the drop-out issue and missing clips in Avid are included in this version. If you are updating your FS-100 to fix the drop-out issue, please remember to do a System Reset for the changes to take effect.

The new version as well as an updated User Guide can be downloaded from: http://www.focusinfo.com/solutions/catalog.asp?id=150

New FS-100 Firmware Now Available for Download
 

The latest version of FS-100 firmware is now available for download at the Focus support site ( http://www.focusinfo.com/support/downloads.asp ) under software downloads. This update (2.0.0.04080806) is a maintenance release that addresses the following:

* Solves an issue where under certain circumstances, the incorrect frames where flagged in a 720p/24 sequence resulting in these frames missing on import to an NLE system
* Solves an issue where audio could be missing at the end of recordings.
* Various disk performance improvements
* AV/C stream capture to Final Cut Pro is now possible in DVCPRO 50 and DVCPRO HD modes
* Minor changes to the behavior of the organize P2 progress bar

Focus Enhancements recommends that you install this latest version on your FS-100. If you have additional queries, please visit the Focus support site at: http://www.focusinfo.com/support/. We also encourage you to register your Focus product at http://www.focusinfo.com/rfi/warranty.asp .

Thanks,

Focus Enhancements

Focus Enhancements Announces FS-100 Version 3.0 With HD Native Frame Rate and QuickTi
 

Focus Announces FS-100 v3.0 With HD Native Frame Rate and QuickTime Support

New Firmware Upgrade Adds Support for Native 720/24p, 25p and 30p as Well as Native QuickTime Support for DVCPRO HD Recordings

CAMPBELL, CA -- (MARKETWIRE) -- 09/09/2006 -- Focus Enhancements, Inc. (NASDAQ: FCSE), a worldwide leader in video production and conversion technology, today announced the version 3.0 firmware upgrade for its popular FS-100 Portable Direct To Edit® (DTE) recorder enabling users to record native 720/24p, 25p and 30p in the MXF P2 or QuickTime file formats commonly used in Apple's Final Cut Pro. Version 3.0 is expected to be available in the middle of the fourth quarter, 2006.

Native file format support only records the required frames in a DVCPRO HD stream, eliminating the need to remove advanced pulldown or duplicate frames during import to the edit system. The new 3.0 software version also adds QuickTime support for native frame rates as well as other 720p and 1080i DVCPRO HD record modes for DTE workflow within Apple Final Cut Pro, bypassing the normal P2 import process thereby decreasing workflow.
"Focus Enhancements' unique DTE technology is continually evolving to streamline and improve professional video production workflow," said Matt McEwen, senior product manager for Focus Enhancements. "The addition of native frame rate support as well as QuickTime support to FS-100 saves a tremendous amount of time in DVCPRO HD workflow as well as offering extended record time."

Using native frame rate recording, users can more than double the record time on the FS-100 from 100 minutes to over 200 minutes. By recording only the required frames, the bit rate for DVCPRO HD recordings drops to as low as 40Mb/s. While camcorders such as the Panasonic AG-HVX200 P2 camera/recorder do not output a stream via FireWire when set to native frame modes (pN), the FS-100 processor is capable of achieving the same native support by only recording the required frames when set to regular 720/24p, 25p and 30p modes. QuickTime support also includes up to four channels of digital audio.

The FS-100 3.0 upgrade is expected to be available directly from Focus Enhancements for $39 by the middle of the fourth quarter this year.
Focus Enhancements will demonstrate a beta version of the 3.0 software during IBC Expo at the Amsterdam RAI from September 8 - 12 in stand number 9.431. IBC is the leading event for professionals involved in the creation, management and delivery of entertainment content.
For more information on Focus Enhancements and its products, please visit www.focusinfo.com.

HDV QT Support for FS-4Pro HD, DR-HD100 & FS-C Now Available
 

Focus Enhancements Announces Availability of 2.0 Firmware Upgrade Adding Native QuickTime HDV Support for FS-4Pro HD, FS-C, and DR-HD100 Portable HD DTE Recorders

New DTE Technology(R) File Format Allows HDV Camcorder Owners to Import Clips Directly Into Apple Final Cut Pro 5 Using Direct To Edit(R) Technology

CAMPBELL, CA--(MARKET WIRE)--Oct 4, 2006 -- Focus Enhancements, Inc. (NASDAQ:FCSE - News), a worldwide leader in video production and conversion technology, today announced the availability of version 2.0 software which adds native QuickTime HDV support to its industry leading Direct To Edit (DTE) FS-4Pro HD, FS-C and DR-HD100 recorders. The upgrade will be available for purchase in disc format on the Focus Enhancements website for $39.
1080i 50/60 and 720p/30 clips recorded in the QuickTime HDV format using FS-4Pro HD, FS-C and DR-HD100 can be used immediately in Apple Final Cut Pro 5 without having to first capture or convert footage.

"The FS DTE Technology is the only disk recording solution that allows Final Cut users to record natively in the QuickTime format during acquisition in standard or high definition," said Matt McEwen, senior product manager for Focus Enhancements. "With the addition of QuickTime HDV support, Focus Enhancements' exclusive DTE Technology continues its position as the industry's leading direct-to-disk acquisition solution."

Sony, Canon and JVC camcorder owners can now record 1080i 50/60 or 720p/30 video directly to their FS-4Pro HD, FS-C and DR-HD100 in native QuickTime. The file can be imported directly into Apple Final Cut Pro and used immediately in the timeline -- eliminating the time-consuming steps of capturing and converting footage. The FS extracts and decodes the audio from the incoming HDV stream, combines it with the video stream, and wraps audio and video as a QuickTime file. Previously, clips had to be either captured or converted prior to use in Final Cut Pro 5.

The FS-4Pro HD and DR-HD100 offer a 40GB (3 hour) or 80GB (6 hour) internal disk drive, while the FS-C offers a 60GB (4 hour) or 100GB (7 hour) disk drive option. These versions feature separate 6-pin FireWire connectors for interfacing with camcorders and computers for editing or file transfer, a backlit status LCD display, and a comprehensive set of control buttons including a navigation pad. The FS-C was designed specifically for Canon HDV camcorders users. The DR-HD100 was designed for JVC GY-HD100 camcorder owners.

The FS-4Pro HD 40GB model has a US MSRP of $1,395 while the 80GB model is $1,795. The FS-C is available through Canon in both 60GB and 100GB versions for a US MSRP of $1,395 and $1,995, respectively. The 40GB and 80GB DR-HD100 models are available exclusively through JVC Professional for a US MSRP of $1,495 and $1,895, respectively. The version 2.0 update can be ordered directly from the Focus Enhancements website in disc format for an MSRP of $39.

For more information on Focus Enhancements and its products, please visit www.focusinfo.com.

Rock on Matt.

Not to be "that guy," but are there plans for 24F Quicktime support in the FS4ProHD firmware down the line, now that FCP supports it?

Matt has said that Focus is working on it since FCP 5.1.2 was released.

Just to followup - I got my upgrade CD yesterday and all went well. I shot 1080i60 to a Quicktime file and it worked great!

FS-4/HD/Pro/Pro HD Version 1.1 Software Now Available
 

FS-4/HD/Pro/Pro HD Version 1.1 Software Now Available

I am pleased to announce that version 1.1 software for FS-4, FS-4 HD, FS-4 Pro and FS-4Pro HD is now available for download from the Focus support site. This maintenance release features UI and performance improvements, improved DV24p operation and fixes connectivity and playback issues with some JVC, Canon and Sony camcorders.

If a you have already purchased the FS-4Pro HD version 2.0 software, there is no need to load this new software as the improvements were included in the 2.0 release. These improvements are also already included on FS-C and DR-HD100.

Matt,

Can you comment at all about the interaction with Edius? You had mentioned that there was work being performed to accommodate/optimize files with Edius (timecode issues?).

I have now updated the firmware on my FS4 HD with your version, and I've tried the unit with the Canon H1 (also with updated firmware) and the Sony Z1. The interaction between the camera and firestore is now the best I've seen since having the HD upgrade. However, I'm still running into files that are problematic in Edius (I also have the most current Edius SP update - 4.03).

I think the files while in syncro slave mode work fairly well - also if it's in local mode if you're not recording to tape. But if you are in local mode and hit record on the camera in the middle (ad-hoc start/stop), the files get messed up.

Additionally, I'm still running into anomalies when importing, having some files be 2 1/2 hours long, etc, when they're only minutes long. I call it file corruption - most likely from recording in local mode and punching the record button on the camera (this isn't a problem in DV mode, or with the FS100). I figure it's an MPEG/GOP issue or something... I don't run into this with the FS4's running/recording a DV stream, or even the FS100 using DV or DVCPRO50. It seems to be an HDV issue.

After being one of the first to get the HD upgrade when it was available, I'm almost to the point of trusting it as an absolute backup, if using it in synchro slave mode only. Past that - I think there still needs to be some tweaks, or advice given to settings, Edius advice, etc. I currently have my other FS4 HD into Focus to repair the DV I/O port for $249. Needless to say and still in frustration, I'd love to get the HD section up to 100% operation, after more than a year of testing, waiting, etc.

Any advice or info/status on this upgrade is appreciated, as well as speculation/timeframes on Edius, etc.

Thanks.

FS-100 v2.0.1 Update Now Available
 

FS-100 version 2.0.1 is now available for download from the Focus Enhancements support website at: http://www.focusinfo.com/support/downloads.asp . This maintenance release improves the performance of FS-100 and it is recommended that all users update to this new version. Specifically, version 2.0.1 addresses the following issues:

Version 2.0.1.05102406:
- Improved disk performance
- Changed fan control algorithm
- Corrected shut-down sequence when over temperature
- XML now supports 16:9 in DVCPRO50

New FS-100 v2.0.3 Firmware Now Available
 

FS-100 version 2.0.3 firmware is now available for download from the Focus support site http://www.focusinfo.com/support/downloads.asp . This version features the following enhancements:

* Improved disk performance
* Improved SDRAM interface

It is recommended that all FS-100 owners download and update their unit with this new version.

Matt

DR-HD100 v2.1 with QT HDV 720p24, 25 & 30 Support Now Available
 

Focus is pleased to announce that a maintenance firmware release for DR-HD100 is now available. Version 2.1 will be installed on all new DR-HD100 units shipped from the factory and is also available to existing customers via download from our Support site. Please note that this release is for those customers who already have version 2.0 (QT HDV update) loaded on their DR-HD100. This version will NOT update a DR-HD100 with version 1.0 or 1.1 version firmware.

If you have version 1.0 or 1.1 and wish to add QuickTime HDV functionality to your DR-HD100, version 2.1 can be ordered from the Focus webstore which includes all the features of version 2.0 and 2.1.

Version 2.1 addresses the following issue:

- Now supports QuickTime HDV 720 24p and 25p recordings (in addition to 720p30)

NOTE: The version is for use with the JVC GY-HD100/110 series cameras only

Thanks Matt, I will be using it tomorrow!

There is some confusion though from HD200/250 users. Can the DR-HD100 2.1 capture the 24/25/30P streams as .MOV from the HD200/250? If not, why is there a problem?

There is an issue with QuickTime recordings on the DR-HD100 when used with the GY-HD200/250 in 720p24/25/30 mode. We are looking into it now. I'll post more info when I know more.

Matt

Thanks, just checking.

quicktime 25p
 

hello, after it has left version 2,1 for Dr 100, it is possible knowledge when it will leave the update for the FS4 PRO HD? some users we have version 2,0 but we needed to record in 24 and 25p.
greetings.

HDV 720p24 support is for the DR-HD100 (JVC version of the FS-4Pro HD) only.

Matt

Still no solution for the 200/250?

DR-HD100 update? 60p hd200/250 issues
 

I'm a GY-HD200 owner very keen on getting a firestore. 60p quicktime support is essential for my workflow. I was told by JVC about 6 weeks asgo that this was imminent, and when apples had 720/60p support releases (which they predicted correctly as just weeks away), that the DR-HD100 would support 60p with a firmware update "within 2 weeks".

That's been and gone. I'm also concerned about the reported issues with the 200 series.

Matt - if you are reading this, can you give us a status update?
..... it could be a direct boost in sales!

edit: I see this is an old thread, and Matt hasn't posted on the last few firmware updates. I have a direct enquiry in to Focus now. I'll post if I get direct news.

Can you still capture DV Quicktime (or Avid OMF) when shooting with the JVC 251? I've read that there will be an update soon for the HDV, I'm just abt to buy the Firestore, I don't mind captureing @ DV for the time being, would love HDV as Avid is blind to this format from the JVC's

Thanks

Hi Steven. The current version, as of earlier this year, allows you to capture directly to quicktime 24, 25, 30p. I use one with a clients JVC HD110 this way on a regular basis. The update which is expected very soon (according to JVC) is the ability to do 60p QT capture. This was reliant on Apples release of FCP 60p support, which came out several weeks ago (after being demo'd months before at NAB) Currently frame rates all are supported in native m2f files, but the QT workflow is much faster for FCP and some other editing systems. Avid OMF is not part of the plan. Avid has poor support of HDV in any case. Transcoding or card based capture might have to be part of your workflow with Avid currently.

use with Sony EX1?
 

Matt, do you have a product that will work with the Sony EX1?
Thanks, Craig

You should be able to use a normal FS4Pro with the EX1, provided the EX1 is in "Standard Quality" mode, as in that mode it just outputs normal HDV (m2t) data.

In HQ, the EX1 doesn't feed anything out the Firewire port, so you need to use SxS cards.