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What is dv?
There are three tape formats that are known as DV formats: MiniDV, DVCAM, and DVCPRO. All three utilize the same compression method called DV25 (which is sometimes just referred to as DV compression). The same data is recorded onto each format, with the difference between the formats being how the data is physically recorded onto the tape (see below for a more detailed explanation). Video compressed using DV25 does not have to be recorded onto tape; video files on a computer can be compressed into DV.
Note that confusion can arise since many people refer to the MiniDV format as DV, while others use the term DV to refer to all three formats (among which there is some incompatibility).
DV Formats
MiniDV: Also referred to as "Regular DV" "Consumer DV" or just "DV," MiniDV is the most common DV tape format. MiniDV provides the most universal playback compatibility. MiniDV tapes can be played in any DV device (including DVCAM and DVCPRO), while many MiniDV devices can play all three formats. MiniDV, as it's name implies, uses only the small DV tapes. Note that while the small DV tapes made by Sony are often marked DVCAM and the tapes made by Panasonic are often marked DVCPRO, it is the device that determines which format is recorded; the tapes are identical. So if a Sony tape that is marked DVCAM is used in a MiniDV camera, the DV data will be recorded as MiniDV.
DVCAM: DVCAM is developed and supported by Sony. DVCAM uses the same DV25 codec as MiniDV, so it has identical picture quality, yet it has a faster tape speed and a wider track pitch. This means that the data is recorded over a larger area, which reduces dropouts (dropouts are defects in the picture caused by the physical loss of the particles used on the tape to record). This makes DVCAM a much sturdier and dependable format that has found favor with higher-end productions. Also, a MiniDV deck, if used in an analog suite, cannot perform frame-accurate edits, while DVCAM can. This makes it a good choice for post-production houses that want to simply add DV to their existing set- up, but is of no importance to those editing over Firewire. DVCAM can only be recorded in specific DVCAM decks (made by Sony), yet it can be played back in most MiniDV and DVCPRO decks.
DVCPRO: DVCPRO is Panasonic's entry into the DV format arena. DVCPRO has an even wider track pitch than DVCAM (18 microns) and uses a metal-particle tape (as opposed to MiniDV's and DVCAM's metal-evaporated tape) for even better durability. DVCPRO was aimed mainly at the TVs news market, were it has gained some acceptance. Among digital editors it is less used, and its adoption was hampered by an initial short-sighted decision to not include Firewire on DVCPRO equipment, although nowadays DVCPRO equipment has Firewire. |
