What is DVCam format?

Chris Messineo

Chris Messineo

Veteran
I shot some footage the other day and I have been asked to edit in some footage that someone else shot.

The new footage is being sent to me as DVCam.

What format is that?

Is that the same as minidv?

Can I capture to my MAC using my panasonic?

Thanks,

Chris
 
Re: What is DVCam format?

DVCam is the same format and is recorded on the same tapes as MiniDV. It's just recorded at a higher speed. You won't have any problems playing back or capturing the footage.
 
Re: What is DVCam format?

The only thing you need to find out is what type of cassette did they use. For example, I used to shoot DVCam on a Sony DVR-200a and it only took the full size DVCam tapes, that are a larger cassette than the mini dv cassette. So my only worry is that it is possible that it may have been shot on a differernt size cassette. So I'd call and ask.

Vince
 
Re: What is DVCam format?

Thanks.

I am pretty sure the footage I am integrating was shot on a Sony, but I don't know the size of the tape.

I will have to try and find out.

Chris
 
Re: What is DVCam format?

DV Cam is Sony's proprietary, 'slightly-enhanced' version of DV just as DVC Pro is Panasonic's version.
 
Re: What is DVCam format?

"The consumer-oriented DV uses 10 micron tracks in SP recording mode. Newer camcorders offer an LP mode to increase recording times, but the 6.7 micron tracks make tape interchange problematic on DV machines, and prevents LP tapes from being played in DVCAM or DVCPRO VTRs. Sony's DVCAM professional format increases the track pitch to 15 microns (at the loss of recording time) to improve tape interchange and increase the robustness and reliability of insert editing. Panasonic's DVCPRO increases track pitch and width to 18 microns, and uses a metal particle tape for better durability. DVCPRO also adds a longitudinal analog audio cue track and a control track to improve editing performance and user-friendliness in linear editing operations. "

copied ruthlessly from:

http://www.adamwilt.com/DV-FAQ-tech.html#DVformats
 
Re: What is DVCam format?

I am confused.

Does that mean I will need a DV Deck to capture footage with this tape or can I use my dvx 100?

Also, if I use my dvx 100 am I going to screw up the heads by putting a different tape in?

Thanks,

Chris
 
Re: What is DVCam format?

Understand that it's basically the same tape...it's the recording process that's different. If the tape has been recorded in DVCAM, your dvx100 will not play it.
 
Re: What is DVCam format?

DVCAM can be recorded on a regular DV tape, so you could record DVCAM on your Panasonic MQ's and have no problem.

Some cameras (like Canons) cannot play back DVCAM. The DVX can.
 
Re: What is DVCam format?

[quote author=Barry_Green link=board=Links;num=1097699895;start=0#8 date=10/14/04 at 10:39:22]

Some cameras (like Canons) cannot play back DVCAM.  The DVX can.[/quote]

Hey, I didn't know that. First thing I've learned today!
 
Re: What is DVCam format?

Yeah, it amazed me -- I was sure it wouldn't. I remember Jarred being equally surprised. But I've got genuine DVCAM tapes here, with DVCAM data on them, and the DVX plays 'em back just fine -- an unexpected bonus! :)
 
Re: What is DVCam format?

Whoa Barry you're about to hit "4000" So one more question. Maybe redundant... but is there any benifit to recording onto DVCAM tape using the DVX? But maybe not because one of the above posters mentioned DVCam and miniDV tapes are the same. IF that's the case, they are just packaged differently?

Do i get a prize if i get Barry to respond his 4000th reply? ;D

just kidding you don't have to reply. no wait! my question!... :P
 
Re: What is DVCam format?

DVCAM tapes are supposedly engineered to a higher standard. In fact Sony's now offering a premium DVCAM tape which is supposed to be nearly impervious to dropouts. Costs more (about $14 per tape) but it should be about the best tape made.

Using DVCAM tape in your DVX would work, but you'd get longer runtime than the tape shell says (i.e., a 40-minute DVCAM tape would last 60 minutes in a DV device like the DVX).

Oops, there goes 4000!

Now I"m only like 2,000 posts behind Hudson... ;)
 
Re: What is DVCam format?

when I first got my DVX way back when i used Fuji's super cool clamshell boxed DVCam tapes in it.. it got a little old paying $20 a tape but never did have a dropout, not that I do now though.

I use DVCAM tapes for archive because in the large size you can store 4 hours on them.
 
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