Does original timecode in DV transfer over when digitizing? at DVinfo.net

Ronald Lee · March 11th, 2005, 12:01 AM

I have some DVCAM footage which was transfered from digibeta masters. They both have the same time code.

When I copy this video onto miniDV and not synch up the recording so that it starts when the original plays, does it restart the time code, or can I somehow keep the origianl timecode? Also, when I digitize this video (either from the DCVAM or the miniDV) into a computer (say a PC or Mac/FCP) is there a way for the computer to keep the original timecode as on the digibeta master?

I'm asking because I'm thinking about whether the EDL I make in the future will be acurate.

R Geoff Baker · March 11th, 2005, 06:31 AM

The timecode on your dub is always set by your recorder -- some recorders have the option to replicate the incoming timecode, but many recorders ignore it completely.

When you have the dub house make the DVCam to DigiBeta dubs, tell them you want the timecode preserved -- if they can't do it, shop for another dub house.

When you transfer the DVCam to your PC via Firewire the timecode will be preserved with most software -- some may require that you use 'batch capture mode' to preserve timecode, some may require that you have 'device control' properly set ... but all major NLE software will preserve tape timecode when you transfer to your HD.

My personal preference for DV transfer to my HD is this:
http://www.scenalyzer.com

After the material is transferred, sorted, named, et cetera I import the clips into my editor and start a project. The result is an EDL and batch capture list that can be used with the DigiBeta tapes too if I prefer.

HTH

GB

March 11th, 2005, 12:01 AM	#1
Ronald Lee Major Player Join Date: Jan 2004 Location: Vancouver, Canada Posts: 435	Does original timecode in DV transfer over when digitizing? I have some DVCAM footage which was transfered from digibeta masters. They both have the same time code. When I copy this video onto miniDV and not synch up the recording so that it starts when the original plays, does it restart the time code, or can I somehow keep the origianl timecode? Also, when I digitize this video (either from the DCVAM or the miniDV) into a computer (say a PC or Mac/FCP) is there a way for the computer to keep the original timecode as on the digibeta master? I'm asking because I'm thinking about whether the EDL I make in the future will be acurate.

March 11th, 2005, 06:31 AM	#2
R Geoff Baker Major Player Join Date: Jan 2005 Location: Ottawa, ON Posts: 471	The timecode on your dub is always set by your recorder -- some recorders have the option to replicate the incoming timecode, but many recorders ignore it completely. When you have the dub house make the DVCam to DigiBeta dubs, tell them you want the timecode preserved -- if they can't do it, shop for another dub house. When you transfer the DVCam to your PC via Firewire the timecode will be preserved with most software -- some may require that you use 'batch capture mode' to preserve timecode, some may require that you have 'device control' properly set ... but all major NLE software will preserve tape timecode when you transfer to your HD. My personal preference for DV transfer to my HD is this: http://www.scenalyzer.com After the material is transferred, sorted, named, et cetera I import the clips into my editor and start a project. The result is an EDL and batch capture list that can be used with the DigiBeta tapes too if I prefer. HTH GB