Mini DV to digital file conversion
A consortium of camera manufacturers led by Panasonic and Sony launched the DV recording format in 1995. This was the start of the consumer digital video camera digital evolution.
With a relatively low cost and the ability to deliver outstanding image and sound quality when compared to the various analogue formats of the time, DV was the base technology for various professional video formats such as DVCAM, DVCPRO and HDV.
A standard DV tape was typically good for up to 60 minutes of recording time in the SP mode and 90 minutes in the LP mode. Most consumer grade cameras supported LP modes, whilst professional cameras did not support the LP modes. DVCAM, DVCPRO and HDV are in essence a similar technology but with higher tape speeds and higher bandwidth recording systems.
A larger DV cassette was also available and could be played in prosumer decks of the time. This allowed for longer record times than a standard Mini DV tape.
Pictured is a 184 minute large DVCAM cassette, identical in size and general appearance to a large DV tape.
Mini DV and DV evolved over time and with updated codecs and machinery, the HDV format was introduced in 2003. This format delivered HD video on the same DV tape. Both were soon superseded by cameras utilizing solid state storage and more efficient codecs.
Firewire to SDI Conversion
Direct digital connection to computers and other equipment using the IEEE1394 (Firewire) standard made for easy real time capture of the digital stream and remote control of the device.
We have a range of encoders and converters that allow transfer of firewire digital signals to serial digital signals for direct capture.
Standards conversion
Standards conversion from (NTSC 525/60 to PAL 625/50) for most of the video formats we support. Real time upscaling and format conversion.
The NTSC format generally applies to tapes recorded in countries such as USA, Canada, Japan, South Korea, Taiwan and Philippines (to name a few).
We can transfer Mini DV, HDV and DV tape to digital files for use in archiving or editing applications.
Output file type options include (but are not limited to) the following
- Compressed MP4 – H264
- Uncompressed MOV
- Custom file types – contact us with your requirements.
Contact us for more information on this service.