LAFCPUG: Getting Started FAQs

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<html><a id="LAFCPUG" title="LAFCPUG" name="LAFCPUG" href="http://www.lafcpug.org" target="_blank"><img src="http://www.loudandfast.co.uk/LAFCPUG/Logo-600px.jpg" alt="LAFCPUG LOGO" height="160" width="600" border="0" /></a></html>
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<a id="LAFCPUG" title="LAFCPUG" name="LAFCPUG" href="http://www.lafcpug.org" target="_blank"><img src="http://www.loudandfast.co.uk/LAFCPUG/Logo-600px.jpg" alt="LAFCPUG LOGO" height="160" width="600" border="0" /></a></div><center><B><FONT COLOR="#990000" SIZE="+2">Getting Started FAQs</FONT></B></center>
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== Will FCS run on my computer? ==
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== Where Can I get Plug-ins for FCP? ==
 
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<br>
 
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Here is a list of some useful plug-in pages. This is not a complete list, but a good starting point. Google ‘FCP Plug in’ for more results.
 
'''From Jude Cotter'''
'''From Jude Cotter'''
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<br>  
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http://www.automaticduck.com<br>
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http://www.borisfx.com/<br>
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http://www.cgm-online.com/eiperle/cgm_e.html<br>
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http://www.chv-plugins.com/index.php<br>
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http://www.digitalfilmtools.com/index2.htm<br>
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http://www.digital-heaven.co.uk/<br>
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http://www.dvgarage.com/<br>
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http://www.fxscript.org<br>
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http://www.genarts.com/download-sapphire-ae-mac.html<br> 
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http://homepage.mac.com/tomhenderson/beziermatte/<br> 
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http://www.joesfilters.com<br> 
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http://www.kafwang.com/EUREKA/EurekaMain.html<br> 
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http://www.lyric.com/fcp-plugins/<br> 
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http://www.mattias.nu/<br> 
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http://www.nattress.com<br> 
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http://www.petewarden.com/index.htm<br> 
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http://www.pistolerapost.com/tech/2strip.html<br> 
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http://www.pluginz.com/default.php?from=rlist&genre=6&category=62&type=2<br> 
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http://www.redgiantsoftware.com/<br> 
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http://www.revisionfx.com/<br> 
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http://www.riverrockstudios.com/riverrock/pages/FCP.html<br> 
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http://www.synthetic-ap.com<br> 
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http://www.trapcode.com/<br>
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http://www.digieffects.com/<br>
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http://web.mac.com/andymees/Free_and_Easy/main/main.html <br>
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Also check [http://www.digitalzoo.com.au/lunchtime/lunch_docs/related_02_free.htm Simon Kirbys Lunchtime Cinema] which has links to FREE FCP Plugins<br>
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At this point in time FCS runs only on Apple computers. To check the Final Cut Studio compatibility of your Mac and deck, go here : <br>
 +
[http://www.apple.com/finalcutstudio/specs/ Final Cut Studio Technical Specifications]
-
== Will FCS run on my computer? ==
 
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Q. Will FCS run on my new [insert model here]? Will FCS run on my PC?
 
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'''From Jude Cotter'''
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*[http://www.lafcpug.org/faqwiki/index.php?title=LAFCPUG:_Getting_Started_FAQs Back to Getting Started FAQs Contents]<br>
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<br>  
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*[http://www.lafcpug.org/faqwiki/index.php/Main_Page Back to Index of FAQs]<br>
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A. At this point in time FCS runs only on Apple computers. To check the Final Cut Studio compatibility of your Mac and deck, go here : <br>
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*[http://www.lafcpug.org/ Back to lafcpug.org]<br>
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[http://www.apple.com/finalcutstudio/specs/ Final Cut Studio Technical Specifications]
+
 
 +
 
 +
----
==How do I connect an external monitor?==
==How do I connect an external monitor?==
'''From Jude Cotter'''<br>  
'''From Jude Cotter'''<br>  
-
A. You can connect an external monitor using this path : Mac > Firewire > Camera or deck > RCA cable (the red, white and yellow type that comes with most DVD players is fine) > TV.  
+
 
 +
You can connect an external monitor using this path : Mac > Firewire > Camera or deck > RCA cable (the red, white and yellow type that comes with most DVD players is fine) > TV.  
Make sure all external devices are on before you open FCP, so that it can detect them, then in View > External video > select ‘All Frames’, and in View > Video Playback > select Apple Firewire NTSC or Apple Firewire PAL, depending on the standard of the country you are in.  
Make sure all external devices are on before you open FCP, so that it can detect them, then in View > External video > select ‘All Frames’, and in View > Video Playback > select Apple Firewire NTSC or Apple Firewire PAL, depending on the standard of the country you are in.  
If the monitor has speakers, make sure that View > Audio Playback is set to ‘Firewire DV’, or ‘Audio Follows Video’.  
If the monitor has speakers, make sure that View > Audio Playback is set to ‘Firewire DV’, or ‘Audio Follows Video’.  
 +
'''Nick Meyers''' adds:  
'''Nick Meyers''' adds:  
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And if you don't have a camera or deck, you can get one of these [http://www.canopus.com/products/ADVC110/index.php Canopus] boxes:
And if you don't have a camera or deck, you can get one of these [http://www.canopus.com/products/ADVC110/index.php Canopus] boxes:
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==How much Ram do I need?==
 
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Q: How much Ram do I need to run Final Cut Studio?
 
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Apple says you can run FCP's HD features with a minimum of 1GB of Ram. They recommend 2 GBs however and so do we. FCP will not utilize more than 2.5GBs of Ram as of this writing. Motion however, will utilize as much Ram as you can throw into your Mac.
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*[http://www.lafcpug.org/faqwiki/index.php?title=LAFCPUG:_Getting_Started_FAQs Back to Getting Started FAQs Contents]<br>
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*[http://www.lafcpug.org/faqwiki/index.php/Main_Page Back to Index of FAQs]<br>
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*[http://www.lafcpug.org/ Back to lafcpug.org]<br>
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 +
 
 +
----
 +
 
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==How much RAM do I need to run FCS?==
 +
 
 +
'''From Michael Horton'''
 +
 
 +
Apple says you can run FCP's HD features with a minimum of 1GB of Ram. They recommend 2GB of RAM when working with compressed HD and uncompressed SD sources, and 4GB of RAM when working with uncompressed HD sources and so do we. FCP will not utilize more than 4GBs of RAM as of this writing. Motion however, will utilize as much RAM as you can throw into your Mac.
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*[http://www.lafcpug.org/faqwiki/index.php?title=LAFCPUG:_Getting_Started_FAQs Back to Getting Started FAQs Contents]<br>
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*[http://www.lafcpug.org/faqwiki/index.php/Main_Page Back to Index of FAQs]<br>
 +
*[http://www.lafcpug.org/ Back to lafcpug.org]<br>
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 +
 
 +
----
==How much storage do I need?==
==How much storage do I need?==
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How much space will I need for video storage?<br>
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-
From '''Jim Perry:''' <br>
+
'''From Jim Perry:''' <br>
 +
 
You should typically plan for 200% or more of the raw size of your video content. This allows for the render files and scratch space needed for various processes. Here's a guide for the data rates and raw space requirements for various video formats:  
You should typically plan for 200% or more of the raw size of your video content. This allows for the render files and scratch space needed for various processes. Here's a guide for the data rates and raw space requirements for various video formats:  
-
NTSC DV or PAL DV 5:1 compression
 
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3.6MB/Sec, or 1GB/4.5 minutes or 13GB/hour
 
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NTSC DV50
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* '''NTSC DV''' or '''PAL DV''' (5:1 compression) : 
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Double above
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* 3.6 MB/Sec, or 1 GB/4.5 minutes or 13 GB/hour
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*525 NTSC uncompressed;  <br>
 
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8 bit @ 720 x 486 @ 29.97fps = 20.97 MB per/sec, or 76 GB per/hr.
 
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10 bit @ 720 x 486 @ 29.97fps = 23.07 MB per/sec, or 83 GB per/hr.
 
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*625 PAL uncompressed;  <br>
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* '''NTSC DV50''' :
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8 bit @ 720 x 576 @ 25fps = 20.74 MB per/sec, or 75 GB per/hr.
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* Double the above
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10 bit @ 720 x 576 @ 25fps = 22.81 MB per/sec, or 82 GB per/hr.
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*720p HDTV uncompressed; <br>
 
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8 bit @ 1280 x 720 @ 59.94field = 110.48 MB per/sec, or 398 GB per/hr.
 
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10 bit @ 1280 x 720 @ 59.94field = 121.52 MB per/sec, or 438 GB per/hr.
 
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*1080i and 1080p HDTV uncompressed;  <br>
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* '''525 NTSC uncompressed''' :
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8 bit @ 1920 x 1080 @ 24fps = 99.53 MB per/sec, or 358 GB per/hr.  
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* 8 bit @ 720 x 486 @ 29.97fps = 20.97 MB per/sec, or 76 GB per/hr.  
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10 bit @ 1920 x 1080 @ 24fps = 109.43 MB per/sec, or 394 GB per/hr.  
+
* 10 bit @ 720 x 486 @ 29.97fps = 23.07 MB per/sec, or 83 GB per/hr.  
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8 bit @ 1920 x 1080 @ 25fps = 103.68 MB per/sec, or 373 GB per/hr.
 
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10 bit @ 1920 x 1080 @ 25fps = 114.05 MB per/sec, or 411 GB per/hr.
 
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8 bit @ 1920 x 1080 @ 29.97fps = 124.29 MB per/sec, or 447 GB per/hr.  
+
* '''625 PAL uncompressed''' :
-
10 bit @ 1920 x 1080 @ 29.97fps = 136.72 MB per/sec, or 492 GB per/hr.  
+
* 8 bit @ 720 x 576 @ 25fps = 20.74 MB per/sec, or 75 GB per/hr.
 +
* 10 bit @ 720 x 576 @ 25fps = 22.81 MB per/sec, or 82 GB per/hr.
 +
 
 +
 
 +
* '''720p HDTV uncompressed''' :
 +
* 8 bit @ 1280 x 720 @ 59.94field = 110.48 MB per/sec, or 398 GB per/hr.
 +
* 10 bit @ 1280 x 720 @ 59.94field = 121.52 MB per/sec, or 438 GB per/hr.
 +
 
 +
 
 +
* '''1080i and 1080p HDTV uncompressed''' :
 +
 
 +
 
 +
* 8 bit @ 1920 x 1080 @ 24fps = 99.53 MB per/sec, or 358 GB per/hr.
 +
* 10 bit @ 1920 x 1080 @ 24fps = 109.43 MB per/sec, or 394 GB per/hr.
 +
 
 +
 
 +
* 8 bit @ 1920 x 1080 @ 25fps = 103.68 MB per/sec, or 373 GB per/hr.
 +
* 10 bit @ 1920 x 1080 @ 25fps = 114.05 MB per/sec, or 411 GB per/hr.
 +
 
 +
 
 +
* 8 bit @ 1920 x 1080 @ 29.97fps = 124.29 MB per/sec, or 447 GB per/hr.  
 +
* 10 bit @ 1920 x 1080 @ 29.97fps = 136.72 MB per/sec, or 492 GB per/hr.  
 +
 
also:  
also:  
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From '''Mark Raudonis'''  
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'''From Mark Raudonis'''  
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Check out this [http://www.digital-heaven.co.uk/videospace/index.php widget] created by Martin Baker of "Digital Heaven" in the UK. It's FREE! <br>
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Check out this calculator [http://www.digital-heaven.co.uk/videospace/index.php widget] created by Martin Baker of "Digital Heaven" in the UK. It's FREE! <br>
-
==How to set up to edit widescreen==
 
-
From '''Jude Cotter'''<br>
+
also:
-
This tutorial on kenstone.net will get you going:<br>
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[http://www.kenstone.net/fcp_homepage/understanding_16_9.html Understanding 16:9]
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Also see:  
+
Read '''Andrew Balis's''' article,  [http://edu.moviola.com/edu/rc/fcs_video_storage Video Storage For Final Cut Pro] at the Moviola Resource center. it contains storage requirement tables for specific formats of Video.
-
[http://docs.info.apple.com/article.html?artnum=75079 Final Cut Pro: DV and Widescreen Video Formats Explained]<br>
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[http://creativemac.digitalmedianet.com/articles/viewarticle.jsp?id=28589 Final Cut Pro Quick Tip #43]<br>
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*[http://www.lafcpug.org/faqwiki/index.php?title=LAFCPUG:_Getting_Started_FAQs Back to Getting Started FAQs Contents]<br>
 +
*[http://www.lafcpug.org/faqwiki/index.php/Main_Page Back to Index of FAQs]<br>
 +
*[http://www.lafcpug.org/ Back to lafcpug.org]<br>
 +
 
 +
 
 +
 
 +
----
==What is dropframe and non-dropframe timecode?==
==What is dropframe and non-dropframe timecode?==
-
From '''Jim Perry:'''  
+
 
 +
'''From Jim Perry''' :
 +
 
Dropframe timecode is a leapyear-like trick used to compensate for the fact that 29.97fps (the NTSC standard), doesn't match the master clocks used in broadcast facilities. It works by dropping the first 2 framecounts (not frames) of video every minute, except for minutes divisible by 10. If that's just confusing, all you need to know is that all NTSC DV uses dropframe timecode, and so should you.  
Dropframe timecode is a leapyear-like trick used to compensate for the fact that 29.97fps (the NTSC standard), doesn't match the master clocks used in broadcast facilities. It works by dropping the first 2 framecounts (not frames) of video every minute, except for minutes divisible by 10. If that's just confusing, all you need to know is that all NTSC DV uses dropframe timecode, and so should you.  
Line 121: Line 138:
If this has awakened the closet Trivial Pursuit player in you, you can learn more here:<br>
If this has awakened the closet Trivial Pursuit player in you, you can learn more here:<br>
 +
   
   
[http://www.bhphotovideo.com/find/newsLetter/Frame-or-Non-Drop-Frame.jsp How to Use Drop Frame or Non-Drop Frame]<br>
[http://www.bhphotovideo.com/find/newsLetter/Frame-or-Non-Drop-Frame.jsp How to Use Drop Frame or Non-Drop Frame]<br>
[http://www.larryjordan.biz/articles/lj_dropframe.html Technique: Drop-frame vs. Non-drop-frame Timecode]<br>
[http://www.larryjordan.biz/articles/lj_dropframe.html Technique: Drop-frame vs. Non-drop-frame Timecode]<br>
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*[http://www.lafcpug.org/faqwiki/index.php?title=LAFCPUG:_Getting_Started_FAQs Back to Getting Started FAQs Contents]<br>
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*[http://www.lafcpug.org/faqwiki/index.php/Main_Page Back to Index of FAQs]<br>
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*[http://www.lafcpug.org/ Back to lafcpug.org]<br>
 +
 +
 +
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----
==What devices work with FCP?==
==What devices work with FCP?==
-
Q. What third party devices (cameras, decks, etc) are qualified for use with Final Cut Studio?
+
 
 +
'''From Michael Horton'''
Apple has complied a list of qualified devices that are officially supported for use in Final Cut Studio. You can find this list on the [http://www.apple.com/finalcutstudio/resources/supportdevices.php Final Cut Studio Resources] page at Apple.com.<br>
Apple has complied a list of qualified devices that are officially supported for use in Final Cut Studio. You can find this list on the [http://www.apple.com/finalcutstudio/resources/supportdevices.php Final Cut Studio Resources] page at Apple.com.<br>
   
   
-
 
If you find your device is not on this list, it does NOT mean the device will not work with Final Cut Studio. It means Apple has not yet tested the device and thus can't officially support it.
If you find your device is not on this list, it does NOT mean the device will not work with Final Cut Studio. It means Apple has not yet tested the device and thus can't officially support it.
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*[http://www.lafcpug.org/faqwiki/index.php?title=LAFCPUG:_Getting_Started_FAQs Back to Getting Started FAQs Contents]<br>
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*[http://www.lafcpug.org/faqwiki/index.php/Main_Page Back to Index of FAQs]<br>
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*[http://www.lafcpug.org/ Back to lafcpug.org]<br>
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----
==How do I register Quicktime Pro?==
==How do I register Quicktime Pro?==
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Q. I upgraded to Quicktime Pro but I don't seem to have any of the features. What am I missing?
 
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-
From''' Jude Cotter'''
 
-
Quicktime Pro comes with any copy of Final Cut Pro. You do not have to purchase it separately.
+
'''From Jude Cotter'''
-
You probably need to register your Pro copy. Whether you bought the upgrade online, or it came with your latest FCS upgrade, the instructions on how to do this can be found here: <br>
+
QuickTime Pro comes with any copy of Final Cut Pro. You do not have to purchase it separately.
-
[http://www.apple.com/quicktime/pro/unlock-mac_osx.html Quicktime Pro Registration]<br>
+
In early versions of FCP you needed to register your QuickTime Pro copy before some of the features were active. The latest versions of FCS handle this automatically. However, if you find that you are not running the 'Pro' version, whether you bought the upgrade online or it came with your latest FCS upgrade, the instructions on how to register your copy can be found here :  [http://www.apple.com/quicktime/pro/unlock-mac_osx.html Quicktime Pro Registration]<br>
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*[http://www.lafcpug.org/faqwiki/index.php?title=LAFCPUG:_Getting_Started_FAQs Back to Getting Started FAQs Contents]<br>
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*[http://www.lafcpug.org/faqwiki/index.php/Main_Page Back to Index of FAQs]<br>
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*[http://www.lafcpug.org/ Back to lafcpug.org]<br>
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----
==Which brands of external drives are recommended?==
==Which brands of external drives are recommended?==
-
From '''Derek Mok'''  
+
 
 +
Before you read on, read this AppleCare Doc from Apple on choosing a Hard Drive:
 +
 
 +
[http://docs.info.apple.com/article.html?artnum=58636 Choosing a Hard Disk]
 +
 
 +
'''From Derek Mok'''
First, several tips:  
First, several tips:  
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c) [http://www.alsoft.com/DiskWarrior/index.html DiskWarrior] is a recommended utility application to have handy whenever you use external drives for editing.  
c) [http://www.alsoft.com/DiskWarrior/index.html DiskWarrior] is a recommended utility application to have handy whenever you use external drives for editing.  
-
[http://gmaxstorage.com/ GMAX] <br>
+
 
-
[http://www.otherworldcomputing.com/ OWC: (Other World Computing)]<br>  
+
This list in is no particular order. All are considered good, solid systems.
-
[http://www.g-technology.com G-Technology] <br>  
+
-
[http://www.wiebetech.com WiebeTech]<br>
+
*[http://www.otherworldcomputing.com/ OWC: (Other World Computing)]<br>  
-
[http://www.caldigit.com CalDigit]<br>  
+
*[http://www.g-technology.com G-Technology] <br>  
-
[http://www.seagate.com Seagate]<br>
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*[http://www.wiebetech.com WiebeTech]<br>
-
[http://www.dulcesystems.com/ Dulce Systems]<br>
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*[http://www.caldigit.com CalDigit]<br>  
-
[http://www.lairdsharehd.com/ Laird Telemedia]<br>  
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*[http://www.seagate.com Seagate]<br>
 +
*[http://www.dulcesystems.com/ Dulce Systems]<br>
 +
*[http://www.lairdsharehd.com/ Laird Telemedia]<br>  
 +
 
Two very common brands, Lacie and Maxtor, have in my esteem received more mixed reviews in terms of performance and durability. However, brand names are not a guarantee of a drive's performance, and even the best drives recommended by professionals can fail, especially if misused, eg. left on for days at a time for no reason, chained with a camera/deck/capture device, or when put into too large a chain of drives. You should always implement a backup system to guard against data loss.
Two very common brands, Lacie and Maxtor, have in my esteem received more mixed reviews in terms of performance and durability. However, brand names are not a guarantee of a drive's performance, and even the best drives recommended by professionals can fail, especially if misused, eg. left on for days at a time for no reason, chained with a camera/deck/capture device, or when put into too large a chain of drives. You should always implement a backup system to guard against data loss.
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*[http://www.lafcpug.org/faqwiki/index.php?title=LAFCPUG:_Getting_Started_FAQs Back to Getting Started FAQs Contents]<br>
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*[http://www.lafcpug.org/faqwiki/index.php/Main_Page Back to Index of FAQs]<br>
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*[http://www.lafcpug.org/ Back to lafcpug.org]<br>
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----
==Should I get FCP or FCE?==
==Should I get FCP or FCE?==
-
Q. Do I need Final Cut Pro/Studio or can I get the cheaper version, Final Cut Express? What are the differences between them?
 
-
From '''Jude Cotter'''  
+
'''From Jude Cotter'''
-
Final Cut Express is a slightly dumbed down version of Final Cut Pro. The main differences are  
+
Final Cut Express is a slightly dumbed down version of Final Cut Pro. The main differences are :
-
• FCE can only work with DV, DVCAM, HDV and DVCPRO. It cannot use IMX, DVCPRO 50, Uncompressed 8 bit SD, uncompressed 10 bit HD or work in 24 fps.
 
-
• It does not contain a lot of the high-end tools required for working in broadcast, such as XML exchange, OMF export, RSS-422 deck control, batch capture and export and Cinema tools integration.
 
-
• Multicam is not supported.
 
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• There is only basic colour correction support. The Three-Way Colour Corrector is not included. There are no scopes, frame viewer or range checkers.
 
-
• The Keyboard is not mappable and window layouts can't be saved.
 
-
• The applications 'Compressor' and 'Cinema Tools' are not included.
 
-
If none of these things actually mean anything to you, and you are not working in a broadcast environment, you could be a good candidate for Final Cut Express.
+
* FCE can only work with DV, DVCAM, HDV and AVCHD. It cannot use IMX, DVCPRO 50, Uncompressed 8 bit SD, uncompressed 10 bit HD, XDCAM, work in 24 fps or any of the host of other new high-end formats on the market.  
-
==How do I calibrate my broadcast monitor?==
+
* FCE does not contain a lot of the high-end tools required for working in broadcast, such as XML exchange, OMF export, RSS-422 deck control, batch capture, timecode display and Cinema tools integration.
-
'''From (and copyright) The Final Cut Pro User Manual, onboard all copies of FCP under the 'Help' menu'''.  
+
* Multicam is not supported.  
-
Monitors are calibrated using SMPTE standard color bars. Brightness and contrast are  
+
* There is only basic colour correction support. The Three-Way Colour Corrector is not included. There are no scopes, frame viewer or range checkers.  
-
adjusted by eye, using the color bars onscreen. Adjusting chroma and phase involves
+
-
using the “blue only” button found on professional video monitors. This calibration
+
-
should be done to all monitors in use, whether they’re in the field or in the editing room.  
+
-
To calibrate your monitor:
+
-
1: Connect a color bars or test pattern generator to the monitor you’re using.  
+
* The Keyboard is not mappable and window layouts can't be saved.  
-
2: Alternatively, you can one of the built-in color bars generators in Final Cut Pro. Avoid
+
* The applications 'Compressor', 'Cinema Tools', 'Color', 'Soundtrack Pro', 'DVD Studio Pro' and 'Motion' are not included.  
-
using still image graphics of color bars.  
+
-
3: Turn on the monitor and wait at least ten minutes for the monitor to reach a stable
 
-
operating temperature.
 
-
4: Select the appropriate input on the video monitor so that the color bars are visible on
+
If none of these things actually mean anything to you, and you are not working in a broadcast environment, you could be a good candidate for Final Cut Express.
-
the screen.  
+
-
Near the bottom right corner of the color bars are three black bars of varying
 
-
intensities. Each one corresponds to a different brightness value, measured in IRE. (IRE
 
-
originally stood for Institute of Radio Engineers, which has since merged into the
 
-
modern IEEE organization; the measurement is a video-specific unit of voltage.) These
 
-
are the PLUGE (Picture Lineup Generation Equipment) bars, and they allow you to
 
-
adjust the brightness and contrast of a video monitor by helping you establish what
 
-
absolute black should be.
 
-
5: Turn the chroma level on the monitor all the way down.  
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*[http://www.lafcpug.org/faqwiki/index.php?title=LAFCPUG:_Getting_Started_FAQs Back to Getting Started FAQs Contents]<br>
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*[http://www.lafcpug.org/faqwiki/index.php/Main_Page Back to Index of FAQs]<br>
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*[http://www.lafcpug.org/ Back to lafcpug.org]<br>
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This is a temporary adjustment which allows you to make more accurate luma
 
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adjustments. The chroma control may also be labeled color or saturation.
 
-
6: Adjust the brightness control of your monitor to the point where you can no longer
+
----
-
distinguish between the two PLUGE bars on the left and the adjacent black square.
+
-
At this point, the brightest of the bars (11.5 IRE) should just barely be visible, while the
+
-
two PLUGE bars on the left (5 IRE and 7.5 IRE) appear to be the same level of black.
+
-
7: Now, turn the contrast all the way up so that this bar becomes bright, and then turn it
+
==How do I calibrate my broadcast monitor?==
-
back down.
+
-
The point where this bar is barely visible is the correct contrast setting for your monitor.
+
-
(The example shown below is exaggerated to demonstrate.)
+
-
[IMG]http://i149.photobucket.com/albums/s43/lafcpug/pluge.png[/IMG]
+
'''From (and copyright) The Final Cut Pro User Manual, onboard all copies of FCP under the 'Help' menu'''.  
-
When adjusting the contrast, also watch the white square in the lower left. If the
+
Monitors are calibrated using SMPTE standard color bars. Brightness and contrast are adjusted by eye, using the color bars onscreen. Adjusting chroma and phase involves using the “blue only” button found on professional video monitors. This calibration should be done to all monitors in use, whether they’re in the field or in the editing room. To calibrate your monitor:
-
contrast is too high, the white square appears to “spill” into the surrounding squares.
+
-
Adjust the contrast until the luma of the white square no longer “spills” into
+
-
surrounding squares.  
+
-
8: Once you are finished adjusting luma settings, turn up the chroma control to the
 
-
middle (detent) position.
 
-
Note: Some knobs stop subtly at a default position. This is known as the detent
+
*1: Connect a color bars or test pattern generator to the monitor you’re using.  
-
position of the knob.  
+
-
9: Press the “blue only” button on the front of your monitor.
 
-
Note: This button is usually only available on professional monitors.
 
-
Notice how all of the differently colored bars turn into alternating light and dark ones.
+
*2: Alternatively, you can one of the built-in color bars generators in Final Cut Pro. Avoid using still image graphics of color bars.  
-
* If your monitor is correctly calibrated, all the gray bars will be evenly gray and all the
+
-
black bars evenly black.  
+
-
* If the two outer gray bars don’t match, adjust the chroma control of the monitor until
+
-
they do. Then adjust the phase control to even out the inner bars.  
+
-
[IMG]http://i149.photobucket.com/albums/s43/lafcpug/phase.png[/IMG]
 
-
Note: NTSC and PAL video have brightness and contrast levels that are very different
+
*3: Turn on the monitor and wait at least ten minutes for the monitor to reach a stable operating temperature.  
-
from those of RGB computer displays. Broadcast video viewed on a computer monitor  
+
-
often looks dull and dark, whereas the same video viewed on a broadcast monitor will
+
-
be bright and clear. For this reason, the color bars above are shown for reference only
+
-
and not to reflect what you should be seeing.
+
-
==Can I install a single copy of Final Cut Studio on more than one computer?==
 
-
Q. Can I install a single copy of Final Cut Studio on more than one computer?
 
-
From '''Tom Wolsky'''
+
*4: Select the appropriate input on the video monitor so that the color bars are visible on the screen.
-
The short answer is yes you can.
 
-
The full EULA can be found with the software or at [http://www.apple.com/legal/sla/ Apple Legal.] The relevant passage is this:
+
Near the bottom right corner of the color bars are three black bars of varying intensities. Each one corresponds to a different brightness value, measured in IRE. (IRE originally stood for Institute of Radio Engineers, which has since merged into the
 +
modern IEEE organization; the measurement is a video-specific unit of voltage.) These are the PLUGE (Picture Lineup Generation Equipment) bars, and they allow you to adjust the brightness and contrast of a video monitor by helping you establish what absolute black should be.
-
<font color=red>2. Permitted License Uses and Restrictions.
 
-
A. Apple Software (Bundle)
 
-
This License allows you to install and use one copy of the Apple Software on one Apple-labeled desktop computer and one Apple-labeled laptop computer so long as both computers are owned and used by you. You may not make the Apple Software available over a network where it could be used by multiple computers at the same time. You may make one copy of the Apple Software in machine-readable form for backup purposes only; provided that the backup copy must include all copyright or other proprietary notices contained on the original.</font>
 
-
==DPI: (and when to use it)==
+
*5: Turn the chroma level on the monitor all the way down.
-
From '''Ben King'''<br>
+
-
Ok guys and gals
+
This is a temporary adjustment which allows you to make more accurate luma adjustments. The chroma control may also be labeled color or saturation.
-
Many people still get very confused about DPI or Dots Per Inch and its use in the world of video.
 
-
This is a long FAQ but I feel it's necessary to understand completely.  
+
*6: Adjust the brightness control of your monitor to the point where you can no longer distinguish between the two PLUGE bars on the left and the adjacent black square. At this point, the brightest of the bars (11.5 IRE) should just barely be visible, while the two PLUGE bars on the left (5 IRE and 7.5 IRE) appear to be the same level of black.  
-
--------------------------------------------
 
-
'''Firstly a couple of real world examples'''
+
*7: Now, turn the contrast all the way up so that this bar becomes bright, and then turn it back down. The point where this bar is barely visible is the correct contrast setting for your monitor. (The example shown below is exaggerated to demonstrate.)
-
--------------------------------------------
+
http://i149.photobucket.com/albums/s43/lafcpug/pluge.png
-
• A 720x480 image displayed in Photoshop at 72dpi
+
When adjusting the contrast, also watch the white square in the lower left. If the
 +
contrast is too high, the white square appears to “spill” into the surrounding squares.
 +
Adjust the contrast until the luma of the white square no longer “spills” into
 +
surrounding squares.
-
• Has a 1012.5K Raw filesize
 
-
• It would print out as a 10" x 6.667" image on paper.  
+
*8: Once you are finished adjusting luma settings, turn up the chroma control to the middle (detent) position. Note: Some knobs stop subtly at a default position. This is known as the detent position of the knob.  
-
--------------------------------------------
 
-
• The same 720x480 Graphic displayed in Photoshop at 300dpi
+
*9: Press the “blue only” button on the front of your monitor. Note: This button is usually only available on professional monitors.  Notice how all of the differently colored bars turn into alternating light and dark ones. If your monitor is correctly calibrated, all the gray bars will be evenly gray and all the black bars evenly black. If the two outer gray bars don’t match, adjust the chroma control of the monitor until they do. Then adjust the phase control to even out the inner bars.
-
• Has a 1012.5K Raw filesize
+
http://i149.photobucket.com/albums/s43/lafcpug/phase.png
-
• It would print out as a 2.4" x 1.6" image on paper.  
+
Note: NTSC and PAL video have brightness and contrast levels that are very different from those of RGB computer displays. Broadcast video viewed on a computer monitor often looks dull and dark, whereas the same video viewed on a broadcast monitor will be bright and clear. For this reason, the color bars above are shown for reference only and not to reflect what you should be seeing.
-
--------------------------------------------
 
-
• Both have exactly the same impact on FCP, After Effects & Motion, irrespective of the DPI setting.
 
-
--------------------------------------------
+
'''From Strypes''' :
-
What often happens is that people get mixed up between DPI, PPI and Pixel Dimensions.
+
Larry Jordan has an article on calibrating PAL monitors you should read:
-
To reiterate: The '''DPI does NOT matter for video''' if the Pixel Dimensions are 720x480 that is all FCP cares about (and what Aspect Ratio to display it).  
+
http://www.larryjordan.biz/articles/lj_calibrating_PAL.html
-
• The file '''IS''' exactly 720x480
 
-
• It is exactly the same 345,600 pixels
+
*[http://www.lafcpug.org/faqwiki/index.php?title=LAFCPUG:_Getting_Started_FAQs Back to Getting Started FAQs Contents]<br>
 +
*[http://www.lafcpug.org/faqwiki/index.php/Main_Page Back to Index of FAQs]<br>
 +
*[http://www.lafcpug.org/ Back to lafcpug.org]<br>
-
• It is the same 1012.5KB and does not increase processing requirements.
 
-
For some bizarre reason people imagine that a 300 dpi image is this huge massive file consisting of thousand of pixels by thousands of pixels.
+
----
-
'''Wrong'''.  
+
==Can I install a single copy of Final Cut Studio on more than one computer?==
 +
 
 +
'''From Tom Wolsky'''  
 +
 
 +
The short answer is yes you can.  
 +
 
 +
The full EULA can be found with the software or at [http://www.apple.com/legal/sla/ Apple Legal.] The relevant passage is this:
 +
 
 +
<font color=red>2. Permitted License Uses and Restrictions.
 +
A. Apple Software (Bundle)
 +
This License allows you to install and use one copy of the Apple Software on one Apple-labeled desktop computer and one Apple-labeled laptop computer so long as both computers are owned and used by you. You may not make the Apple Software available over a network where it could be used by multiple computers at the same time. You may make one copy of the Apple Software in machine-readable form for backup purposes only; provided that the backup copy must include all copyright or other proprietary notices contained on the original.</font>
-
DPI is a refererence as to:
 
-
"How many pixels of the image are printed out per one inch" on (for example) paper.  
+
*[http://www.lafcpug.org/faqwiki/index.php?title=LAFCPUG:_Getting_Started_FAQs Back to Getting Started FAQs Contents]<br>
 +
*[http://www.lafcpug.org/faqwiki/index.php/Main_Page Back to Index of FAQs]<br>
 +
*[http://www.lafcpug.org/ Back to lafcpug.org]<br>
-
OR
 
-
"How many pixels are scanned in for 1 inch of source picture."
 
-
--------------------------------------------  
+
----
-
'''Some more examples and some very important rules for you all to follow:'''
+
==Where Can I Get Training for Final Cut Studio?==
-
--------------------------------------------
+
'''From Michael Horton''':
-
'''Example 1''':
+
There are Apple Authorized Training Centers in almost every major city in the world. You will almost always find the best FCS training at these centers, but it is up to you to do your homework first. Ask around. An Apple Authorized Training Center might not be the best choice in your city. <br>
-
• If you scan a 2"x 2" Graphic in at 72dpi
 
-
• Then the resulting file will be 144x144px
+
To Locate an Apple Authorized Training Center near you, go here:<br>
-
A tiny files size and not really good enough for video.  
+
*http://training.apple.com/locations/
-
--------------------------------------------
+
To learn more about the Apple Authorized Training Center program and curriculum, go here:
-
'''Example 2:'''
+
*http://www.apple.com/software/pro/training/auth_tcenter_prog.html
-
• The same 2"x 2" Graphic scanned in at 400dpi
+
To learn more about how to become an Apple Certified Pro, go here:
-
• Gives a 800 x 800 pixel image
+
*http://www.apple.com/software/pro/training/enduser.html
-
Which you COULD use for Standard Definition Video.
+
For self paced learning and training for no more cost than the price of a book, go here:
-
--------------------------------------------
+
*http://www.apple.com/software/pro/training/self_paced.html
-
'''Example 3:'''
 
-
• Lets say we take a 5"x4" Photo
+
Other sources of training might be found at your local Community College. Some have excellent training for far less cost. Some Universities also have training usually in the form of night classes. Still, other institutions might offer excellent training. Again, ask around.<br>
-
• Scan at 300 dpi
 
-
• You will get a 1500x1200 pixel image
+
*[http://www.lafcpug.org/faqwiki/index.php?title=LAFCPUG:_Getting_Started_FAQs Back to Getting Started FAQs Contents]<br>
 +
*[http://www.lafcpug.org/faqwiki/index.php/Main_Page Back to Index of FAQs]<br>
 +
*[http://www.lafcpug.org/ Back to lafcpug.org]<br>
-
This is fine for Standard Definition Video and 720 High Deinition Video plus you can pan around it on SD.
 
-
The filesize will be relatively small too - around 5MB uncompressed and FCP can handle much bigger than this.
 
-
--------------------------------------------  
+
----
-
'''Example 4:'''
+
==Where Can I Find More Final Cut Studio Resources on the Web?==
-
• Now if you scanned in a 27"x 20" at 300dpi
+
There are literally dozens of web sites, blogs, podcasts, video tutorials, books, User Groups and discussion forums dedicated to all of the Final Cut Studio Pro Apps and digital video editing. The Following are a list of what we feel are among the best of the best.<br>
-
• The pixel size would be something like 8000 x 6000 pixels
 
-
It would be about 130MB file - way too big for FCP or After Effects - in fact you would have to use Shake if I am not mistaken.
+
'''Final Cut Studio and Digital Video Editing Web Sites''' (in no particular order)<br>
-
This is the monster that "300dpi" creates in your head isn't it!!!
+
*[http://www.kenstone.net/fcp_homepage/fcp_homepage_index.html Ken Stone.net]<br>
 +
*[http://www.lafcpug.org/ lafcpug]<br>
 +
*[http://www.2-pop.com/ 2-pop]<br>
 +
*[http://www.rippletraining.com/ Ripple Training]<br>
 +
*[http://edu.moviola.com/rc_final_cut_studio_main Moviola Resource Center]<br>
 +
*[http://finalcutpro.digitalmedianet.com/ Digital Media Net]<br>
 +
*[http://www.larryjordan.biz/ Larry Jordan.biz]<br>
 +
*[http://www.zoom-in.com/apple/final-cut-studio Zoom-in Online]<br>
 +
*[http://www.macvideo.tv/ MacVideo.TV]<br>
 +
*[http://forums.creativecow.net/ Creative Cow.net]<br>
 +
*[http://www.apple.com/finalcutstudio/ Apple Final Cut Studio]<br>
 +
*[http://www.dvcreators.com/ DV Creators.net]<br>
 +
*[http://provideocoalition.com/ Pro Video Coalition]<br>
 +
*[http://www.studiodaily.com/main/ Studio Daily]<br>
-
--------------------------------------------
 
-
'''Fear not I have 3 rules for you so you can sleep sound at night whilst your suite is a rendering...'''
 
-
--------------------------------------------
+
'''Final Cut Pro Discussion Forums''' (in no particular order)<br>
-
'''Rule Number 1''':  
+
*[http://www.lafcpug.org/phorum/index.php Cafe LA at lafcpug]<br>
 +
*[http://www.kenstone.net/discussions/list.php?3 Final Cut Pro Discussion Board at Ken Stone.net]<br>
 +
*[http://www.2-popforums.com/forums/ 2-pop Forums]<br>
 +
*[http://dvcreators.net/discuss/forumdisplay.php?f=6 DV Creator's Final Cut Studio Planet]<br>
 +
*[http://www.dvinfo.net/conf/forumdisplay.php?f=30 DV Info's Non Linear Editing on the Mac]<br>
 +
*[http://www.dvxuser.com/V6/forumdisplay.php?f=14 DVX User's FCP]<br>
 +
*[http://discussions.apple.com/index.jspa?categoryID=1 Apple's Pro Applications: Video Discussion Forums]<br>
 +
*[http://www.macvideo.tv/forums/ MacVideo.tv Forums]<br>
 +
*[http://www.postforum.com/forums/list.php?f=37 Post Forum - Final Cut Pro]<br>
 +
*[http://www.emotiondv.com/forum/ Emotion DV]<br>
 +
*[http://forums.creativecow.net/forum/applefinalcutpro Creative Cow's Final Cut Pro]<br>
 +
*[http://www.avid2fcp.com/forum/list.php?1 Avid2FCP]<br>
 +
*[http://toolfarm.com/phorumNew5/list.php?9 Toolfarm]<br>
 +
*[http://movies.groups.yahoo.com/group/FinalCutPro-L/ Final Cut Pro - L]<br>
 +
*[http://www.macprovideo.com/forum/ MacProVideo Forums]<br>
-
• DPI should only be taken into account on acquiring images via scanners or when you are outputting a print.
 
-
--------------------------------------------
 
-
'''Rule Number 2:'''  
+
'''Final Cut Studio Tutorials''' (in no particular order)<br>
-
• When scanning images always work in Square pixels then convert to the video pixel aspect ratio you need - eg: D1
+
*[http://www.kenstone.net/fcp_homepage/fcp_homepage_index.html Ken Stone.net]<br>
 +
*[http://www.apple.com/finalcutstudio/tutorials/ Apple Final Cut Studio 2 Tutorials]<br>
 +
*[http://finalcutpro.digitalmedianet.com/articles/splasharticle.jsp?type=techniques Digital Media Net Final Cut Pro]<br>
 +
*[http://www.lafcpug.org/tutorials.html lafcpug Tutorials]<br>
 +
*[http://www.youtube.com/results?orig_query=Final+Cut+Pro&search_query=final+cut+pro+tutorial&orig_query_src=4 Final Cut Pro Tutorials on You Tube]<br>
 +
*[http://www.rippletraining.com/engine/pay_tutorials.html?cms=df5e5bb2e12b0a2bddb0775092312bfe Ripple Training]<br>
 +
*[http://www.dvcreators.net/tutorial-dvds/ DV Creators Tutorials]<br>
 +
*[http://library.creativecow.net/tutorials/applefinalcutpro Creative Cow FCP Tutorials]<br>
 +
*[http://www.larryjordan.biz/articles/Articleindex.php Larry Jordan.biz Editing Library]<br>
 +
*[http://www.avid2fcp.com/tuesday-tips/ Avid2FCP Tuesday Tips]<br>
 +
*[http://www.digital-heaven.co.uk/podcast/ Digital Heaven Hot Tips]<br>
 +
*[http://www.macprovideo.com/browse/finalcutpro MacProVideo Tutorials]
 +
*[http://desktopvideo.about.com/od/finalcutprotutorials/Final_Cut_Pro_Tutorials_Learn_to_Edit_Video_With_Final_Cut_Pro.htm Desktop Video at About.com]<br>
 +
*[http://www.stephenschleicher.com/htm/tutorialsfcp.html Final Cut Pro Quick Tips]<br>
 +
*[http://www.zoom-in.com/tutorials?z=f&t=4146 Zoom In Online Final Cut Studio Tutorials]<br>
 +
*[http://edu.moviola.com/rc_final_cut_studio_main Moviola FCP Tips and Tutorials]<br>
-
--------------------------------------------
 
-
'''Rule Number 3:'''
 
-
• For talking about video sizes you should only work with the pixel dimensions (horizontal x vertical number of pixels) and aspect ratio.
+
'''Digital Video Editing Blogs''' (in no particular order)<br>
-
--------------------------------------------
+
*[http://www.scottsimmons.tv/blog/ The Editblog]<br>
 +
*[http://lfhd.blogspot.com/ Little Frog in High Def]<br>
 +
*[http://cinematech.blogspot.com/ CinemaTech]<br>
 +
*[http://finalcutprostudio.blogspot.com/ Final Cut Studio Blog]<br>
 +
*[http://www.zoom-in.com/blogs/ Zoom-in Blogs]<br>
 +
*[http://blogs.creativecow.net/taxonomy/term/65/9 Creative Cow Blogs]<br>
 +
*[http://www.hdforindies.com/ HD For Indies]<br>
 +
*[http://www.fini.tv/blog/finishing_line.php The Finsihing Line]<br>
 +
*[http://www.freshdv.com/ FreshDV]
-
'''A couple of tips for scanning in images for use in video''':
 
-
Scan in at a resolution good enough to get a file with the pixel dimensions you require.
 
-
I usually ask for/scan a minimum picture size as follows:
+
'''Final Cut Pro User Groups'''<br>
-
• 800 x 600 px for Standard Def 4:3
+
Apple has a list of FCP User Groups throughout the world. There might be one in your city. Note: This list is not up to date. Ask around, or start one yourself.<br>
-
• 1100 x 600 px for SD Widescreen 16:9
+
*[http://www.apple.com/finalcutstudio/resources/communities.html Final Cut Communities]<br>
-
• 1400 x 780 px for 720 HD
 
-
• 2000 x 1200 px for 1080 HD
 
-
This way you have a small leeway to move the pictures around in FCP - but if you want to do major moves then you will have to get them in larger pixel dimensions.  
+
*[http://www.lafcpug.org/faqwiki/index.php?title=LAFCPUG:_Getting_Started_FAQs Back to Getting Started FAQs Contents]<br>
 +
*[http://www.lafcpug.org/faqwiki/index.php/Main_Page Back to Index of FAQs]<br>
 +
*[http://www.lafcpug.org/ Back to lafcpug.org]<br>
-
If you feel the need to - you can then crop and scale these images to the exact size of the Video in the FCP project you are using them in.
 
-
--------------------------------------------  
+
----
-
'''CALCULATIONS'''
+
==How do I check the read/write speed of my drives?==
-
--------------------------------------------
+
'''From Strypes'''
-
To work out your scan size in pixels:
+
-
--------------------------------------------
+
-
'''Image size''' (width in inches) '''x dpi setting''' = '''horizontal pixel size'''
+
Hard disk and capture card vendors may offer softwares to test the speed of your drives. Blackmagic cards usually come with a disk speed test. Aja offers a free "system test" utility that you can download off this page:
-
'''Image size''' (height in inches) x '''dpi setting''' = '''vertical pixel size'''
+
http://www.aja.com/products/software/
-
--------------------------------------------
 
-
To work out what dpi setting you need for a particular image size:
 
-
--------------------------------------------
 
-
'''Horizontal pixel size you require''' (Square pixels) / '''Image size''' (width in inches) = '''dpi setting'''
 
-
Vertical pixel size require (Square pixels) / '''Image size''' (width in inches) = '''dpi setting'''
+
*[http://www.lafcpug.org/faqwiki/index.php?title=LAFCPUG:_Getting_Started_FAQs Back to Getting Started FAQs Contents]<br>
 +
*[http://www.lafcpug.org/faqwiki/index.php/Main_Page Back to Index of FAQs]<br>
 +
*[http://www.lafcpug.org/ Back to lafcpug.org]<br>
-
--------------------------------------------
 
-
Aaaaaaand relax....
+
----
 +
==RTFM! Where do I find Manuals?==
-
I do hope this is comprehensive enough for you all!
+
'''From Joey "grafixjoe" Morelli'''
-
From '''Loren Miller:'''
+
The Manual is an oft ignored - very handy piece of software that, oddly enough, is built right into the Final Cut Pro application so no need to "crack a book". Checking the manual BEFORE POSTING could eliminate many redundant inquiries. Here's a short tutorial on "cracking the digital manual":
-
Here's a related approach worked into a system:
+
• Launch Final Cut Pro
-
[http://www.lafcpug.org/tutorials/basic_scanpro.html Intelligent photo scanning]
+
• Menu Bar / Help / Final Cut Pro User Manual
-
==What codec handles Alpha Channels?==
+
'''OR'''
-
'''Is there a codec that handles an Alpha Channel so I don't have to render every time I bring it into the timeline?'''
+
Look here for all Pro Apps manuals online
-
Probable answers:  
+
http://documentation.apple.com/
-
'''From Joe Morelli:'''<br>
 
-
No (not software only). Maybe with a specific Capture Card, like Kona or Black Magic might have a built-in key accelerator, but a (software) codec by itself will need to be rendered.
 
-
'''From Kevin Monahan:'''<br>  
+
*[http://www.lafcpug.org/faqwiki/index.php?title=LAFCPUG:_Getting_Started_FAQs Back to Getting Started FAQs Contents]<br>
-
I have found that a PICT with Alpha will play in real time. Stills only, though.  
+
*[http://www.lafcpug.org/faqwiki/index.php/Main_Page Back to Index of FAQs]<br>
 +
*[http://www.lafcpug.org/ Back to lafcpug.org]<br>
-
'''From Robert Monaghan''' <br>
 
-
DPX from Glue Tools can handle alpha channels
 
-
'''From Frank Jonen''' <br>
+
----
-
- JPEG 2000
+
-
- Animation
+

Latest revision as of 16:11, 19 September 2010

LAFCPUG LOGO
Getting Started FAQs


Contents

Will FCS run on my computer?

From Jude Cotter

At this point in time FCS runs only on Apple computers. To check the Final Cut Studio compatibility of your Mac and deck, go here :

Final Cut Studio Technical Specifications




How do I connect an external monitor?

From Jude Cotter

You can connect an external monitor using this path : Mac > Firewire > Camera or deck > RCA cable (the red, white and yellow type that comes with most DVD players is fine) > TV.

Make sure all external devices are on before you open FCP, so that it can detect them, then in View > External video > select ‘All Frames’, and in View > Video Playback > select Apple Firewire NTSC or Apple Firewire PAL, depending on the standard of the country you are in.

If the monitor has speakers, make sure that View > Audio Playback is set to ‘Firewire DV’, or ‘Audio Follows Video’.


Nick Meyers adds:

And if you don't have a camera or deck, you can get one of these Canopus boxes:




How much RAM do I need to run FCS?

From Michael Horton

Apple says you can run FCP's HD features with a minimum of 1GB of Ram. They recommend 2GB of RAM when working with compressed HD and uncompressed SD sources, and 4GB of RAM when working with uncompressed HD sources and so do we. FCP will not utilize more than 4GBs of RAM as of this writing. Motion however, will utilize as much RAM as you can throw into your Mac.




How much storage do I need?

From Jim Perry:

You should typically plan for 200% or more of the raw size of your video content. This allows for the render files and scratch space needed for various processes. Here's a guide for the data rates and raw space requirements for various video formats:


  • NTSC DV or PAL DV (5:1 compression) :
  • 3.6 MB/Sec, or 1 GB/4.5 minutes or 13 GB/hour


  • NTSC DV50 :
  • Double the above


  • 525 NTSC uncompressed :
  • 8 bit @ 720 x 486 @ 29.97fps = 20.97 MB per/sec, or 76 GB per/hr.
  • 10 bit @ 720 x 486 @ 29.97fps = 23.07 MB per/sec, or 83 GB per/hr.


  • 625 PAL uncompressed :
  • 8 bit @ 720 x 576 @ 25fps = 20.74 MB per/sec, or 75 GB per/hr.
  • 10 bit @ 720 x 576 @ 25fps = 22.81 MB per/sec, or 82 GB per/hr.


  • 720p HDTV uncompressed :
  • 8 bit @ 1280 x 720 @ 59.94field = 110.48 MB per/sec, or 398 GB per/hr.
  • 10 bit @ 1280 x 720 @ 59.94field = 121.52 MB per/sec, or 438 GB per/hr.


  • 1080i and 1080p HDTV uncompressed :


  • 8 bit @ 1920 x 1080 @ 24fps = 99.53 MB per/sec, or 358 GB per/hr.
  • 10 bit @ 1920 x 1080 @ 24fps = 109.43 MB per/sec, or 394 GB per/hr.


  • 8 bit @ 1920 x 1080 @ 25fps = 103.68 MB per/sec, or 373 GB per/hr.
  • 10 bit @ 1920 x 1080 @ 25fps = 114.05 MB per/sec, or 411 GB per/hr.


  • 8 bit @ 1920 x 1080 @ 29.97fps = 124.29 MB per/sec, or 447 GB per/hr.
  • 10 bit @ 1920 x 1080 @ 29.97fps = 136.72 MB per/sec, or 492 GB per/hr.


also:

From Mark Raudonis

Check out this calculator widget created by Martin Baker of "Digital Heaven" in the UK. It's FREE!


also:

Read Andrew Balis's article, Video Storage For Final Cut Pro at the Moviola Resource center. it contains storage requirement tables for specific formats of Video.




What is dropframe and non-dropframe timecode?

From Jim Perry :

Dropframe timecode is a leapyear-like trick used to compensate for the fact that 29.97fps (the NTSC standard), doesn't match the master clocks used in broadcast facilities. It works by dropping the first 2 framecounts (not frames) of video every minute, except for minutes divisible by 10. If that's just confusing, all you need to know is that all NTSC DV uses dropframe timecode, and so should you.

Dropframe timecode is always notated in the format 00:00:00;00, with a semi-colon separator between the seconds and frames. Non-dropframe uses colons for all separators.

If this has awakened the closet Trivial Pursuit player in you, you can learn more here:


How to Use Drop Frame or Non-Drop Frame

Technique: Drop-frame vs. Non-drop-frame Timecode




What devices work with FCP?

From Michael Horton

Apple has complied a list of qualified devices that are officially supported for use in Final Cut Studio. You can find this list on the Final Cut Studio Resources page at Apple.com.

If you find your device is not on this list, it does NOT mean the device will not work with Final Cut Studio. It means Apple has not yet tested the device and thus can't officially support it.




How do I register Quicktime Pro?

From Jude Cotter

QuickTime Pro comes with any copy of Final Cut Pro. You do not have to purchase it separately.

In early versions of FCP you needed to register your QuickTime Pro copy before some of the features were active. The latest versions of FCS handle this automatically. However, if you find that you are not running the 'Pro' version, whether you bought the upgrade online or it came with your latest FCS upgrade, the instructions on how to register your copy can be found here : Quicktime Pro Registration




Which brands of external drives are recommended?

Before you read on, read this AppleCare Doc from Apple on choosing a Hard Drive:

Choosing a Hard Disk

From Derek Mok

First, several tips:

a) Bear in mind that proper maintenance and usage are necessary to ensure a long healthy life for your storage devices. Make sure you dismount them from your desktop (APPLE-E) before turning the power off your drive.

b) USB drives are almost never fast enough to keep up with capturing and editing. You must use at least FireWire 400.

c) DiskWarrior is a recommended utility application to have handy whenever you use external drives for editing.


This list in is no particular order. All are considered good, solid systems.


Two very common brands, Lacie and Maxtor, have in my esteem received more mixed reviews in terms of performance and durability. However, brand names are not a guarantee of a drive's performance, and even the best drives recommended by professionals can fail, especially if misused, eg. left on for days at a time for no reason, chained with a camera/deck/capture device, or when put into too large a chain of drives. You should always implement a backup system to guard against data loss.




Should I get FCP or FCE?

From Jude Cotter

Final Cut Express is a slightly dumbed down version of Final Cut Pro. The main differences are :


  • FCE can only work with DV, DVCAM, HDV and AVCHD. It cannot use IMX, DVCPRO 50, Uncompressed 8 bit SD, uncompressed 10 bit HD, XDCAM, work in 24 fps or any of the host of other new high-end formats on the market.
  • FCE does not contain a lot of the high-end tools required for working in broadcast, such as XML exchange, OMF export, RSS-422 deck control, batch capture, timecode display and Cinema tools integration.
  • Multicam is not supported.
  • There is only basic colour correction support. The Three-Way Colour Corrector is not included. There are no scopes, frame viewer or range checkers.
  • The Keyboard is not mappable and window layouts can't be saved.
  • The applications 'Compressor', 'Cinema Tools', 'Color', 'Soundtrack Pro', 'DVD Studio Pro' and 'Motion' are not included.


If none of these things actually mean anything to you, and you are not working in a broadcast environment, you could be a good candidate for Final Cut Express.




How do I calibrate my broadcast monitor?

From (and copyright) The Final Cut Pro User Manual, onboard all copies of FCP under the 'Help' menu.

Monitors are calibrated using SMPTE standard color bars. Brightness and contrast are adjusted by eye, using the color bars onscreen. Adjusting chroma and phase involves using the “blue only” button found on professional video monitors. This calibration should be done to all monitors in use, whether they’re in the field or in the editing room. To calibrate your monitor:


  • 1: Connect a color bars or test pattern generator to the monitor you’re using.


  • 2: Alternatively, you can one of the built-in color bars generators in Final Cut Pro. Avoid using still image graphics of color bars.


  • 3: Turn on the monitor and wait at least ten minutes for the monitor to reach a stable operating temperature.


  • 4: Select the appropriate input on the video monitor so that the color bars are visible on the screen.


Near the bottom right corner of the color bars are three black bars of varying intensities. Each one corresponds to a different brightness value, measured in IRE. (IRE originally stood for Institute of Radio Engineers, which has since merged into the modern IEEE organization; the measurement is a video-specific unit of voltage.) These are the PLUGE (Picture Lineup Generation Equipment) bars, and they allow you to adjust the brightness and contrast of a video monitor by helping you establish what absolute black should be.


  • 5: Turn the chroma level on the monitor all the way down.

This is a temporary adjustment which allows you to make more accurate luma adjustments. The chroma control may also be labeled color or saturation.


  • 6: Adjust the brightness control of your monitor to the point where you can no longer distinguish between the two PLUGE bars on the left and the adjacent black square. At this point, the brightest of the bars (11.5 IRE) should just barely be visible, while the two PLUGE bars on the left (5 IRE and 7.5 IRE) appear to be the same level of black.


  • 7: Now, turn the contrast all the way up so that this bar becomes bright, and then turn it back down. The point where this bar is barely visible is the correct contrast setting for your monitor. (The example shown below is exaggerated to demonstrate.)

pluge.png

When adjusting the contrast, also watch the white square in the lower left. If the contrast is too high, the white square appears to “spill” into the surrounding squares. Adjust the contrast until the luma of the white square no longer “spills” into surrounding squares.


  • 8: Once you are finished adjusting luma settings, turn up the chroma control to the middle (detent) position. Note: Some knobs stop subtly at a default position. This is known as the detent position of the knob.


  • 9: Press the “blue only” button on the front of your monitor. Note: This button is usually only available on professional monitors. Notice how all of the differently colored bars turn into alternating light and dark ones. If your monitor is correctly calibrated, all the gray bars will be evenly gray and all the black bars evenly black. If the two outer gray bars don’t match, adjust the chroma control of the monitor until they do. Then adjust the phase control to even out the inner bars.

phase.png

Note: NTSC and PAL video have brightness and contrast levels that are very different from those of RGB computer displays. Broadcast video viewed on a computer monitor often looks dull and dark, whereas the same video viewed on a broadcast monitor will be bright and clear. For this reason, the color bars above are shown for reference only and not to reflect what you should be seeing.


From Strypes :

Larry Jordan has an article on calibrating PAL monitors you should read:

http://www.larryjordan.biz/articles/lj_calibrating_PAL.html




Can I install a single copy of Final Cut Studio on more than one computer?

From Tom Wolsky

The short answer is yes you can.

The full EULA can be found with the software or at Apple Legal. The relevant passage is this:

2. Permitted License Uses and Restrictions. A. Apple Software (Bundle) This License allows you to install and use one copy of the Apple Software on one Apple-labeled desktop computer and one Apple-labeled laptop computer so long as both computers are owned and used by you. You may not make the Apple Software available over a network where it could be used by multiple computers at the same time. You may make one copy of the Apple Software in machine-readable form for backup purposes only; provided that the backup copy must include all copyright or other proprietary notices contained on the original.




Where Can I Get Training for Final Cut Studio?

From Michael Horton:

There are Apple Authorized Training Centers in almost every major city in the world. You will almost always find the best FCS training at these centers, but it is up to you to do your homework first. Ask around. An Apple Authorized Training Center might not be the best choice in your city.


To Locate an Apple Authorized Training Center near you, go here:

To learn more about the Apple Authorized Training Center program and curriculum, go here:

To learn more about how to become an Apple Certified Pro, go here:

For self paced learning and training for no more cost than the price of a book, go here:


Other sources of training might be found at your local Community College. Some have excellent training for far less cost. Some Universities also have training usually in the form of night classes. Still, other institutions might offer excellent training. Again, ask around.




Where Can I Find More Final Cut Studio Resources on the Web?

There are literally dozens of web sites, blogs, podcasts, video tutorials, books, User Groups and discussion forums dedicated to all of the Final Cut Studio Pro Apps and digital video editing. The Following are a list of what we feel are among the best of the best.


Final Cut Studio and Digital Video Editing Web Sites (in no particular order)


Final Cut Pro Discussion Forums (in no particular order)


Final Cut Studio Tutorials (in no particular order)


Digital Video Editing Blogs (in no particular order)


Final Cut Pro User Groups

Apple has a list of FCP User Groups throughout the world. There might be one in your city. Note: This list is not up to date. Ask around, or start one yourself.




How do I check the read/write speed of my drives?

From Strypes

Hard disk and capture card vendors may offer softwares to test the speed of your drives. Blackmagic cards usually come with a disk speed test. Aja offers a free "system test" utility that you can download off this page:

http://www.aja.com/products/software/




RTFM! Where do I find Manuals?

From Joey "grafixjoe" Morelli

The Manual is an oft ignored - very handy piece of software that, oddly enough, is built right into the Final Cut Pro application so no need to "crack a book". Checking the manual BEFORE POSTING could eliminate many redundant inquiries. Here's a short tutorial on "cracking the digital manual":

• Launch Final Cut Pro

• Menu Bar / Help / Final Cut Pro User Manual

OR

Look here for all Pro Apps manuals online

http://documentation.apple.com/




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