THE MAIN COMPONENTS OF A MINI MEDIA CENTER

#1 Computer Hardware
#2 Editing Software
#3 Digital Video Camera
#4 Camera stand
#5 Small lighting kit.
#6 Hand-held microphone


#1 Computer Hardware

The minimum specifications for Avid Express are:
Pentium III or Pentium 4 at 750MHz or faster, 256 MB system memory, a qualified DV In/Out card (see below), 20 GB or larger internal IDE drive, CD-ROM drive, and Microsoft Windows 2000 with Service Pack 2.

Additional media storage is recommended, such as an optional IDE or Ultra2/Ultra3 SCSI drive or FireWire drive. If SCSI drives are selected, use an Adaptec 29160 SCSI controller. (SCSI drives will last longer and handle more work – they are “heavy-duty” drives).

DV In/Out Cards for PCI workstations
ADS PYRO 1394DV, part #API-300 (includes card, cable and installation manual)
ADS PYRO DV 1394, part #API-1394-PCI (same as the API-300 but includes consumer-grade editing software)
SIIG 1394 3-Port PCI, part #NN-400012
SIIG 1394 3-Port PCI i/e, part #NN-440012

Related equipment:
We advise the following additional equipment

Equipment
What it does
Surge protection devices or UPS (Uninterruptable Power Supply) Protects the computer from damage
Anti-Virus Software (e.g. Nortons) Protects your files from virus attacks imported through incoming files.
CD-Writer or Tape Streamer To backup important files from the PC hard drive. This helps you recover in case of virus attack, or theft of equipment.

Warning: Avoid connecting this computer to the Internet if possible, to reduce the risk of virus attacks.

If you do link to the Internet, we advise that:

  • Anti-virus software be installed and updated every 2 weeks
  • An external modem be used, to reduce the risk of damage in the event of power surges and lightning strikes.

#2 Editing software options


AVID EXPRESS (Recommended)


To download specifications (Adobe Acrobat file), click here

See full details on the Avid Express web site

 

FINAL CUT PRO

To download specifications (Adobe Acrobat file), click here

See full details on the Web Site (www.apple.com/finalcutpro/)

[Comparative table of features]


 

#3 Digital Video Camera

Sony DSR-PD150

Although we recommend the Sony and Canon cameras, there are also other models that are equally suitable,
such as JVC and others.

More information on this camera

Canon XL1-S

Both these models are available in
NTSC or PAL formats

More information on this camera

The most important requirement is:

A 3-chip camera that records on Mini DV and or DVCam formats

 


#4 Camera stand

Ideally your stand or tripod should be fitted with a Bogen w/503 head (or equivalent)

 

 


#5 Small lighting kit.

Your lighting kit needs to be sufficiently powerful
to enable you to adequately light up
your subjects at the required distance.

 

 

 


#6 Hand-held microphone

Suggested specifications:

Compatible with your DV Camera (Consult your camera manual)
With at least 10 meters (30 ft) of cable
Directional [to eliminate noise from surroundings]

 

Press BACK to return




Home  |  About Us  |  Contact Us  |  Weekly Programs  |  Schedule  |  News  |  Technical  |  Links