TITLE
    iMovie/Final Cut Pro: Unable to Output When Using Sony DVMC-DA2
Article ID:
Created:
Modified: 		60731
5/5/00
8/23/00
TOPIC

    There is a known issue when using the new version of the Sony DV media converter (the DVMC-DA2) with either iMovie 1.0.2 (or earlier) or Final Cut Pro 1.2.1 (or earlier). You may not be able to output video from the converter to camcorders or VCRs. This error does not occur with the Sony DVMC-DA1. This article explains the behavior, as well as how owners of LANC equipped video devices may avoid it.

DISCUSSION

    Users of Sony's DVMC-DA2 FireWire to analog video converter are unable to output video to analog devices (camcorders, VCRs) unless the equipment is connected via LANC, in addition to the video and audio cables. (LANC is Sony's consumer device control protocol.) This connection is a small mini-plug labeled LANC on your camcorder (see your user's manual for more information). The DVMC-DA2 has added support for this protocol that the DVMC-DA1 lacked.

    If you try to output video without LANC connected, iMovie or Final Cut Pro display a message that says, "There is not a tape in the camera, please make sure that you have a tape inserted and that it is not write protected." The absence of the LANC signal causes the DVMC DA-2 device to be treated as a camera with no tape. Connecting the LANC jack on the DVMC-DA2 to the LANC jack on your camcorder will allow iMovie and Final Cut Pro to function as expected.

    If LANC is disconnected, and the camera is not playing (therefore not sending a video signal to the media converter), the Import button in iMovie 1.0.2 (or earlier) will not work. In this case, the absence of the LANC signal results in the blue Monitor screen message "Connected no tape." You can record into iMovie despite this message. Remember to first press play on your camcorder or VCR. Once a valid video signal is fed into the DVMC-DA2, the iMovie Import button is enabled, and pressing it begins capture of a video clip.

    Apple is aware of this issue and is working to correct it in future versions of both iMovie and Final Cut Pro.

Document Information
Product Area: Apple Software
Category: iMovie
Sub Category: General Topics

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