workflow with P2 reader?

S

shm

Active member
Is this the best way to digitize footage into FCP?

1. shoot footage on P2 card

2. "write protect" P2 card

2. Use P2 card reader via Firewire 800 and Panasonic P2 Contents manager software to save all footage onto hard drive

3. Log and transfer footage from hard drive into Final Cut Pro

Yes?


Now - you can format card directly on cam to delete footage BUT what if you are shooting "on the fly" and cannot stop recording? Is there a program for a MAC that will reformat your P2 card?

any info always appreciated
Thanks
Shm
 
That is a way to get footage into FCP; I'd argue that it's not the best way, because FCP's importer occasionally refuses to import perfectly valid clips. I advise everyone to use the Raylight plug-in which avoids the importer and guarantees instant compatibility. It is, however, a $195 purchase, vs. the FCP importer which is free, so ... take your pick.

Panasonic has a P2 Card Formatter Station for the Mac, when you download the latest P2 drivers I believe it installs the formatter for you.
 
I had this same question. I just set up my mac with raylight and plan to import the footage thru firewire. I have to buy the firewire 800 cable. My concern now is making sure I don't burn out the firewire port. I read somewhere that you have to shut off the camera, plug in the firewire cable, then turn it on to avoid frying the port on the camera, is this correct? Should I shut off the computer also and then turn everything on with the firewire connected to the camera and the desktop?
 
I've heard rumors of this but not actual facts....has anyone had this actually happen?

Also- I still am a little unsure of how to re-format a card via the computer and not the camera. Barry you said you thought this software was with Panny's P2 software but I don't see it. any help?

maybe Jan can chime in on this one.
 
Also, looking at the current intel Mac Pro's they have a firewire 400 port, which means you should be able to also plug in a 4 pin firewire cable just like on a pc and also minimize the chances of blowing out the port.
 
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