CompuServe Messages

Larry, >>>LTC is more robust than VITC. VITC is written at a much higher data rate, and less of the tape is used for the timing information.<<< With these two statements do you mean the data storage format of LTC is less likely to be corrupted? I've not seen anyone make this distinction before. Interesting. Also, a good LTC reader can decipher time code during high speed shuttle, whereas VITC can't. This leads to tape positioning problems on tapes with discontinuous VITC signals, like those produced by Panasonic's AG-455 camcorder. On the otherhand, A VITC reader can read time code during jog, still-frame and low-speed shuttle, whereas LTC readers typically can't. This doesn't often lead to problems, but it can. Some decks, like the Panasonic AG-7X50's, read both formats. When both signals are present these decks will take the timecode from whatever source is most appropriate. Editing systems can use this to advantage: Matrox Personal Producer can be configured to accept whatever timecode the deck is currently reading. In fact, the manual suggests this configuration provides the best overall results. I'm sure other editing systems share this feature. LTC may be more robust than VITC, but both is better 🙂 Patrick. Patrick.