Apple Final Cut Pro HD (4.5): New Features - Manual (Page 119)

Appendix High Definition Video Fundamentals 119
Versatile Formatting Choices With Digital Formats
Storing video digitally allows versatile formatting choices while still using the same
physical storage media. Frame rate, image dimensions, and scanning methods are no
longer rigidly defined per tape format.
For example, the same DVCPRO HD camcorder and tape can be used to record a
1920 x 1080 interlaced image at 29.97 fps or a 1280 x 720 progressive scan image at
59.94 fps. The equation is simple: Higher resolution images require more data, so the
frame rate must be lower. The reverse is also true: Higher frame rates require more
data; therefore, the image dimensions must be smaller. As long as the combination of
frame rate, image dimensions, and number of audio channels does not exceed the tape
or disk data rate, a wide range of format choices is available within a single tape format.
Note: While many HD formats allow you to record different frame sizes and frame rates on
the same videotape, you should avoid this. Some video decks may have to be powered on
and off to switch between formats, making tape playback unnecessarily inefficient.
One second
Smaller frames,
more frames
per second
Larger frames,
fewer frames
per second
UP01022.Book Page 119 Tuesday, March 23, 2004 7:32 PM