Vintage JVC BR-D40U DIGITAL S 422 Recorder with Video Camera KY-D29

The BR-D40 offers all the high quality of Digital-S in a convenient dockable configuration. It docks not only to JVC cameras, but to other manufacturers' cameras as well.

Perceptually loseless, high picture quality with 3.3:1 compression, and 8 bit 4:2:2 component digital recording. DTV, 16:9 ready.

104 minute recording time

Color playback with 10X picture search

2 time code reader-generators with jam sync and external lock.

DIGITAL-S Highlights

DIGITAL-S's outstanding picture quality is derived from 4:2:2, 8-bit component processing that assures the highest resolution and color detail even over multiple generations. Horizontal resolution for the system is 720 pixels or 540 TV lines. To maintain the best possible image quality in multi-generation editing and digital search, the compression ratio is set to a very mild 3.3 to 1 with DCT-based intra-frame coding and a data recording rate of 50 Mbps. The combination of these specifications with wide-band component recording enables DIGITAL-S to reproduce the finest color details and subtlest contrasts of an image while minimizing artifacts.

Video Pre-Read

Video pre-read (BR-D85U only), never before available on a system in this price range, enables the recorder to first play back the digital signal on the tape, modify it with an external device, then re-record the modified signal in its place. It's a capability that allows an A/B roll system to be built with only two VTRs instead of three, saving the cost of one VTR. In addition, video pre-read allows complex layering effects to be performed even when working with a simple switcher with only one mix/effects bank. For multiformat editing, adding just one high quality DIGITAL-S recording deck with pre-read will provide virtually lossless editing, which means your finished tape will look like your original source footage. No other upgrade or addition to your current editing suite can provide such a dramatic increase in video picture quality.

 Recording Time

High-resolution DIGITAL-S signals are captured and preserved on a high-density 1/2-inch tape featuring an advanced metal particle formulation based on W-VHS HDTV technology. Tape speed is 57.8 mm/s with a maximum recording time of 104 minutes. The cassette dimensions are the same as those of VHS. However, the cassette housing features a newly developed dust-proof cover and cannot be loaded into conventional VHS decks.

Digital Sound

DIGITAL-S's audio specifications are just as impressive. Two independently editable, 16-bit PCM (pulse code modulation) signals can be recorded with a sampling frequency of 48 kHz, ensuring audio quality equal to today's most exacting standards. 2 linear cue tracks mirror the digital audio channels for effortless audio scrubbing and cueing.

Editing Facilities

The advanced capabilities of JVC's DIGITAL-S bring a new world of powerful editing features to your edit suite. Editing features include video pre-read (BR-D85U only), 2 independent time code reader/generators built in with VITC/LTC built-in time code recording. Independent editing of video, TC, or either channel of PCM audio is possible. A versatile range of search functions available via the jog/shuttle controls allow footage to be viewed in color at speeds of up to ± 32x Continuous, noiseless slow-motion playback is also available within a range of ± 1/3.

Self-Diagnosis

Thanks to the RS-232C interface, you can check the VTR's operating condition without interfering with operation. When the request command is sent via the 232C interface, diagnostic checks are run for head clogging, error rate, etc.

Genlock/TBC Adjustment

System phase, SC phase and video phase can be adjusted on the front panel while video level, chroma phase, chroma level and setup level can be adjusted remotely via the 15-pin D-SUB connector provided on the rear panel.

 Slow Motion

Slow-motion field or frame playback is menu-selectable.

On-Screen Menu

To permit easy access to a full array of professional functions, DIGITAL-S VTRs incorporate an on-screen menu. Menu data is superimposed on the video monitor output. This menu system allows you to set 50 items while referring to the counter or on-screen display. Besides reducing the number of external switches, this system lessens the chance of function settings being accidentally switched on or off as is possible with external switches. A full set of LED indicators on the front panel assure you that the desired functions are engaged. On-screen mode check and warning indications are also provided. And, since the menu system is hierarchical, pressing one of the Direct Menu Access buttons allows you to go straight to the desired menu.

Systems Flexibility

JVC's new DIGITAL-S recorders are designed for easy incorporation in any existing edit suite. Interfaces are provided for analog composite, Y/C, and component signals. Serial digital video interface (SMPTE259M and AES/EBU digital audio) is also available as an option.

 Tape Pattern

With a track-width of 20 �m, 1 frame consists of 10 tracks with the video area on either side of the audio area. The longitudinal tracks include cue audio tracks and a CTL track for tracking purposes.

 Tape Transport

A proven tape path system using sapphire guide roller flange, 7-mm diameter guide poles and a tape cleaner knives made from artificial sapphire ensure more stable tape transport and longer service life. For precise tracking and alignment, there's not only a linear control track, but an auto tracking servo system which utilizes tracking signals embedded in the digital data tracks.

 Drum Structure

To ensure DIGITAL-S/S-VHS mode compatibility, the drum structure features an upper stationary drum, a middle rotary drum and a lower stationary drum. (A conventional drum, on the other hand, consists of an upper rotary drum and a lower stationary drum.) Recording and playback heads on the middle drum make stable tape movement possible even at 4,500 rpm, while channel separation is improved by splitting the digital recording and playback rotary transformer between the upper and lower drums. The rotary drum itself is very narrow. This eliminates thicker air film at the drum inlet, ensures stable head-to-tape contact, and optimizes track linearity. The inner drum is tapered in order to reduce tape damage, powder drop, wear, and burn at the drum area. The material used to manufacture the drum has a higher silicone content than conventional aluminum alloy to improve wear resistance. The system uses a two-track, parallel recording system with two pairs of record heads located at 180 degrees to each other, and two pairs of playback heads located 90 degrees from the record heads. In addition, two erase heads are provided.

 Other Features

Repeat playback from the beginning to the end of a tape

Auto rewind at the end of a tape

Counter search

Jog/Shuttle search dials

Remote control via RS-422A interface using industry standard command set

External sync analog reference signal input

Capstan bump for frame synchronization

Preroll function with user-designated time setting

Headphone output with level control

Playback error checking with LED status display

Auto tracking (with manual mode)

Time code re-generation external TC or jam sync (BR-D85U and BR-D80U only)

Manual audio recording level adjustment (exclusively for analog sources: BR-D85U and BR-D80U only)

ORC (optimized record current) auto setting in the adjustment mode (BR-D85U and BR-D80U only)

Two uncompressed lines for closed caption and teletext recording, selectable by using the menu switch settings (BR-D85U and BR-D80U only)

 Specifications

GENERAL

Format: DIGITAL-S

Tape width: ½ in.

Tape speed: 57.737mm/s

Video signal system: Component digital signal with Digital-S compression (DCT based)

Timecode: based on SMPTE 12M

Dimension: 247 x 253 x 142mm (tentative)

Weight: less than 3.5kg (tentative)

Power consumption: Less than 1.6A (tentative)

Power requirement:

12 V DC

11 V to 15 V DC (permissible voltage range)

Maximum voltage: 17 Volts DC (less than 5 min.)

Recording/PB time: 124 min. (with DS-104 tape)

FF/REW time: approx. 4 min. (with DS-104 tape)

VIDEO

Input:

Camera (50 pin) component

Y:1/R-Y,B-Y:0.7Vpp,75 ohms unbalanced

Output: Composite (BNC) 1.0Vpp,75 ohms unbalanced

External sync input: none

AUDIO

Inputs

Camera (50 pin): -20dBs, 3k ohms, balanced X2

Line (XLR): -60/+4dBs, 10k ohms/3k ohms , balanced X2

Outputs

Line: -6dBs, low-impedance, unbalanced X2

Headphone: -17dBs, low-impedance

Number of PCM tracks: 2

Number of cue tracks: 2

PCM Frequency Response: 20~20,000Hz +1/-1.5dB

PCM Dynamic Range: more than 85dB

Wow & Flutter: less than measurable limit

Timecode(LTC only)

Input: 0±6dBs, high-impedance, unbalanced

Output: 0±6dBs, low-impedance, unbalanced

KY-D29U DIGITAL 3-CCD CAMERA

The KY-D29 is JVC's advanced new 14-bit digital camera which, in JVC tradition, sets new price/performance standards. This versatile new camera features three 2/3-inch CCDs, each with 760,000 pixels, 3D digital noise reduction and revolutionary new Super LoLux for an incredible low light performance of 0.35 lux!

Digital processing is not new to professional cameras. But until now, it has not offered significant performance advantages. JVC has changed that with the introduction of the KY-D29, the first DSP camera in its price range to offer digital performance that's clearly superior to conventional analog technology. To achieve this level of performance, JVC has utilized advanced 14-bit digital processing and has developed several unique technologies that further improve the picture quality. These include 3D digital noise reduction, V-Plus high vertical resolution mode, and Super LoLux.

Today's digital recording formats demand higher performance from video cameras. The KY-D29 delivers picture quality that far exceeds any camera in its price range and is ready to dock with JVC's advanced 4:2:2 D-9 portable--the BR-D40, or with the economical DV dockable, the BR-DV10. It also docks directly with JVC's BR-S422 S-VHS recorder, and with Beta SP recorders using an adapter.

3D DIGITAL NOISE REDUCTION

3D digital noise reduction cancels out random noise without introducing objectionable lag, by comparing multiple frames together with motion detection. Unlike DNR circuits found in other cameras, JVC's 3D system provides noise reduction that you can actually see.

"V-PLUS" HIGH VERTICAL RESOLUTION MODE

"V-Plus" is a high vertical resolution mode that utilizes 768 x 986 effective pixel 2/3" IT CCDs (the highest pixel count in the industry.) One out of three vertical pixels is integrated from the opposite field to increase vertical resolution without visible lag or sacrificing sensitivity. Horizontal resolution is maintained at 850 TV lines. CCD smear level is a super low -125 dB.

SUPER LOLUX

JVC's professional cameras are famous for their low light performance. The CCD's sensitivity is maximized for an electronic gain of 27dB. JVC's LoLux feature increases the gain an additional 6dB, without adding noise, by using a unique dual pixel readout system providing a total of 33dB gain in the standard LoLux mode. JVC's new SUPER LOLUX feature adds another 6dB gain, again without adding noise, by increasing the integration time to 1/30 second (rather than the normal 1/60 second.) This provides an amazing +39dB of gain and allows the shooter to produce crisp, colorful pictures in almost no light whatsoever (0.35 lux). If you thought the KY-27C (the industry leader in low light performance) was good, wait until you see the KY-D29!

EASE OF OPERATION

Professional cameras shouldn't be difficult to use. Unfortunately, the trend today is to add lots of features and require the shooter to navigate through layers of menus to activate them. JVC believes that commonly used features should not require menu activation. Therefore operations such as shutter control, variable scan, black stretch, black compress, continuous auto black, DNR, zebra, Accu- Focus and others, are all menu-free. Built-in continuous auto- black (CAB) means that you never have to set a black balance, since the digital processor continuously performs this adjustment for you.

NEW, HIGH RESOLUTION VIEWFINDER

The VF-P116U is a new high resolution viewfinder that provides 600 lines of horizontal resolution. It is equipped with peaking (with user adjustable level), a large comfortable flip-up eyepiece that's adjustable and a tally on/off switch. The KY-D29 also provides 2 selectable zebra levels, and an F-stop reading in the viewfinder.

FULL AUTO SHOOTING

Sometimes events prevent you from making the pre-shoot settings you'd like to. JVC's full auto shooting mode controls all of the camera's operating parameters, requiring the operator to only control the zoom, focus and trigger. The on-board computer automatically selects the correct gain, white & black balance, iris setting and audio levels.

OTHER FEATURES

* Smooth white balance memory transitions * Smooth gain transitions * Built-in time/date generator * Adjustable gamma point * Adjustable white clip * XLR microphone input w/48V phantom power * Highlight chroma correction * One touch black stretch/compress * Extended range * Accu-Focus for precise focusing * Auto detail enhancer for wide zoom * Digital detail with 3 frequency select * Defective pixel correction * Programmable battery alarm level * Monitor output with characters on/off switch * Audio level control on camera head * 2 scene files and 2 menu modes