Compatibility of DVCAM and DV Format
DVCAM format is developed as a more reliable and higher end format than consumer DV format. Here are
explained about DVCAM and DV formats: the differences, compatibility, and limitations on editing.
Differences between DVCAM and DV format
Item
Track pitch
Audio sampling frequency
1)
Audio recording mode
Time code
1) There are two modes for audio recording, Lock mode and Unlock mode. In Lock mode, the sampling frequencies of audio and video
are synchronized. In Unlock mode, which consumer DV format adopts, the two sampling frequencies are independent. Therefore, lock
mode is more effective than unlock mode in digital processing and smooth transition during audio editing.
DVCAM and DV cassettes
Both DVCAM and DV cassettes can be used on DVCAM or DV video equipment. The recording format of picture
is defined according to recorder's format as described below.
Recorder's format
DVCAM
DV
• This digital videocassette recorder complies with DVCAM format. Though DV cassettes can be used for recording, we recommend you
to use DVCAM cassettes to get the most out of high reliability of DVCAM format.
• The recording time of DV cassettes is 2/3 shorter than that indicated on the DV cassettes.
Compatibility on playback
Some tapes cannot be played back on DVCAM or DV video equipment.
Tape
DV-formatted
DVCAM-formatted
42
GB
Appendix
DVCAM
15µm
12bit: 32kHz
16bit: 48kHz
Lock mode
Drop frame system or Non-drop frame
system (DSR-20MD)
Cassette's format
DVCAM
DV
DVCAM
DV
On DV video equipment
Can be played back
Some DV video equipment
may be able to play back
a DVCAM-formatted tape.
DV
10µm
12bit: 32kHz
16bit: 32kHz, 44.1kHz, 48kHz
Unlock mode
Drop frame system only
(NTSC)
Recording format
DVCAM
DV
On DVCAM video equipment
Can be played back
(only when recorded in SP mode)
Can be played back