FOCUS Enhancements FS-C User Manual

FS-C

Port able DTE Recorder

User Guide

Part Number: MANL-1038-04

LEGAL NOTICES

THIS DOCUMENT CONTAINS CONFIDENTIAL AND TRADE
SECRET INFORMATION OF FOCUS ENHANCEMENTS AND
ITS RECEIPT OR POSSESSION DOES NOT CONVEY ANY
RIGHTS TO REPRODUCE OR DISCLOSE ITS CONTENTS, OR
TO MANUFACTURE, USE, OR SELL ANYTHING THAT IT
MAY DESCRIBE. USE IN WHOLE OR IN PART WITHOUT THE
SPECIFIC WRITTEN AUTHORIZATION OF FOCUS
ENHANCEMENTS IS STRICTLY FORBIDDEN.

EVERY EFFORT HAS BEEN MADE TO ENSURE THAT THE
INFORMATION IN THIS DOCUMENT IS COMPLETE AND
ACCURATE AT THE TIME OF PRINTING; HOWEVER, THE
INFORMATION CONTAINED IN THIS DOCUMENT IS
SUBJECT TO CHANGE.

Copyright 2007 Focus Enhancements
All Rights Reserved

The material contained in this document is also protected by
copyright laws of the United States of America and other
countries. It may not be reproduced or distributed in any form by
any means, altered in any fashion, or stored in a data base or
retrieval system, without express written permission of FOCUS
ENHANCEMENTS.

FOCUS ENHANCEMENTS cannot be responsible for
unauthorized use of equipment and will not make allowance or
credit for unauthorized use or access.

FS-C Portable DTE Recorder i

Contacting FOCUS ENHANCEMENTS:

USA
Office Hours: Monday through Friday

8:00 AM to 5:00PM (Central Time)

Email: [email protected]
Telephone: [phone]
Fax: [phone]
Address: Focus Enhancements, Inc.

1370 Dell Avenue
Campbell, CA. 95008
www.focusinfo.com

EMEA (Europe, Middle East, Africa)
Office Hours: Monday through Friday

9:00 AM to 5:00PM

Email: [email protected]
Telephone: +49 4307 - 83 58 58
Fax: +49 4307 - 83 58 99
Address: COMO Computer & Motion GmbHA

A Focus Enhancements Company
Lise-Meitner-Str. 15
24223 Raisdorf / Germany
www.focusinfo.com

ii FS-C Portable DTE Recorder

Regulations and Safety

Focus Enhancements, Inc.
1370 Dell Avenue
Campbell, CA. 95008

Model Number: FS-C
Date of Manufacture:

Reference the Serial Number label attached to
the unit.

Serial Number

The serial number for this equipment is located on the back of the
unit. Please write this serial number on the enclosed warranty
card and keep it in a secure area.

FCC Class B

This product satisfies FCC regulations when shielded cables and
connectors are used to connect the unit to other equipment. To
prevent electromagnetic interference with electric appliances
such as radios and televisions, use shielded cables and
connectors.

This equipment has been tested and found to comply within the
limits for a Class B digital device, pursuant to Part 15 of the FCC
Rules. These limits are designed to provide reasonable protection
against harmful interference in a residential installation. This
equipment generates, uses, and can radiate radio frequency
energy and, if not installed and used in accordance with the
instructions, may cause harmful interference to radio
communications. However, there is no guarantee that
interference will not occur in a particular installation. If this
equipment does cause harmful interference to radio or television
reception, which can be determined by turning the equipment off
and on, correct the interference by one or more of the following:

• Reorient or relocate the receiving antenna.

• Increase the separation between the equipment and receiver.

• Connect the equipment to an outlet on a circuit different
from that used by the receiver.

• Consult the dealer or an experienced radio/TV technician
for help.

FS-C Portable DTE Recorder iii

Symbol Used In the FS-C Unit

This symbol indicates the presence of an uninsulated
Dangerous Voltage within the product’s enclosure
that may constitute a risk of electric shock to persons.

Symbols Used in This Documentation

This symbol indicates important information that the User
should read.

This symbol indicates supplementary information about
features, functions, or operations that may be of interest to
the user.

Documentation

Read, Retain, and Follow Instructions

All the safety and operating instructions should be read before
the product is operated.

• Retain Documentation
Place documentation in a secure place for future reference
on operating and safety instructions.

• Follow All Operating and Safety Instructions

• Pay Attention to All Warnings
Warnings are provided to protect the operator, the
equipment, and content.

iv FS-C Portable DTE Recorder

Electrical Precautions

Do Not Expose to Moisture

Do not use this product near water or in an environment where it
is exposed to dampness or there is the possibility of it getting
wet.

Do Not Remove Cover

There are No User Serviceable Parts inside this unit. Servicing
should be done by qualified service personnel.

ON / OFF Switch in Stand-By Position

The On/Off switch Does Not Separate the Unit From the Main

Power

when it is in the stand-by position.

Power Sources

Use only power sources that match those indicated on the
marking label. If unsure sure of the type of power supply that is
available, consult your dealer or local power company.

Do Not Overload Power Outlets

Do not overload wall outlets, extension cords, or integral
convenience receptacles as this can result in a risk of fire or
electric shock.

Verify Power Plugs are Fully Inserted

To prevent potential electrical shock to personnel, verify that the
FS-C power cord plug is fully inserted in to a grounded receptor
and that the plug blades are not exposed.

ATTENTION

POUR PREVENIR LES CHOCS ELECTRIQUES NE PAS
UTILISER CETTE FICHE POLARISEE AVEC UN
PROLONGATEUR, UNE PRISE DE COURANT OU UNE
AUTRE SORTIE DE COURANT, SAUF SI LES LAMES
PEUVENT ETRE INSEREES A FOND SANS EN LAISSER
AUCUNE PARTIE A DECOUVERT.

Power-Cord Protection

• Routing Power-Cords
Route power supply cords so that they are not likely to be
walked on or pinched by items placed upon or against them.
Avoid sharp angles in the cord, particularly at plugs,
convenience receptacles, and the point where they exit the
product.

FS-C Portable DTE Recorder v

• Non-Use Period
During extended periods when the device is not used,
unplug it from the power source and retract the power-cord.

Grounding or Polarization

• Polarized
If this product is equipped with a polarized alternating
current line plug (a plug having one blade wider than the
other), it will fit into the outlet only one way. This is a safety
feature. If you are unable to insert the plug fully into the
outlet, try reversing the plug. If the plug should still fail to
fit, contact your electrician to replace your obsolete outlet.
Do not defeat the safety purpose of the polarized plug.

• Grounded
If this product is equipped with a three-wire grounding type
plug, a plug having a third (grounding) pin, it will only fit
into a grounding type power outlet. This is a safety feature.
If you are unable to insert the plug into the outlet, contact
your electrician to replace your obsolete outlet. Do not
defeat the safety purpose of the grounding type plug.

Outdoor Antenna Grounding

If an outside antenna or cable system is connected to the FS-C,
verify that the antenna or cable system is grounded. This
provides some protection against voltage surges and built-up
static charges.

Refer to Article 810 of the National Electric Code, ANSI/NFPA
70, for information about the proper grounding of the mast and
supporting structure, grounding of the lead-in wire to an antenna
discharge unit, size of grounding connectors, location of antenna
discharge unit, connection to grounding electrodes, and
requirements for the grounding electrode.

vi FS-C Portable DTE Recorder

Lightning and Power Surges

During electrical storms or when left unattended and unused for
long periods of time, unplug the FS-C from the power source and
disconnect the antenna or cable system.

Power Lines

Do not locate an outside antenna system in the vicinity of
overhead power lines, electric light or power circuits, or where it
can fall onto such lines or circuits.

When installing an outside antenna system, extreme care should
be taken to keep from touching such power lines or circuits as
contact with them might be fatal.

Optical Precaution

The use of optical instruments with this device will increase
hazards to the eyes hazard.

Maintenance and Moving

Cleaning

Unplug this product from the wall outlet before cleaning. The
product should be cleaned only with a polishing cloth or a soft
dry cloth. Never clean with furniture wax, benzine, insecticides
or other volatile liquids since they may corrode the cabinet.

Servicing

Unplug the device from the power outlet and refer servicing to
qualified service personnel under the following conditions:

• When the power-supply cord or plug is damaged.

• If liquid has been spilled, or objects have fallen into the
product.

• If the product has been exposed to rain or water.

• If the product does not operate normally when following the
operating instructions. Adjust only those controls that are
covered by the operating instructions. The incorrect
adjustment of other controls can result in damage and often
requires extensive work by a qualified technician to restore
the product to its normal operation.

• If the product has been dropped or damaged in any way.

• When the product exhibits a distinct change in performance.

FS-C Portable DTE Recorder vii

Accessories and Replacement Parts

Use only attachments and accessories recommended by Focus
Enhancements.

Use only replacement parts specified by the Focus Enhancements
or of comparable quality and characteristics as the original parts.

Unauthorized substitution of parts can result in fire, electrical
shock, other hazards, and loss of warranty.

Safety Check

Upon completion of any service or repairs to this product, ask the
service technician to perform safety checks to determine that the
product is in proper operating condition.

Operating Environment

Location

Any mounting of this device should follow its instructions, and
should use only mounting accessories recommended by Focus
Enhancements.

• Install this device on a sturdy, level surface, away from
moisture and dust.

• Heat
Locate this device away from heat sources such as radiators,
heat registers, stoves or other electrical devices (including
amplifiers) that generate heat.

Ventilation

Do not block the ventilation openings in the FS-C body.
Overheating can occur and damage the device. Do not place this
device in a built-in installation, such as a bookcase or rack,
unless proper ventilation is provided.

viii FS-C Portable DTE Recorder

Table of Contents

Introduction 1

DTE Eliminates Pre-edit Processing 1
Unpacking 2
Features 3

FS-C Features 3
FS-C 2.0 upgrade features 5

Quickstart 7

Physical Description and Basic Controls 8

Front Panel Controls 8

LCD Display 8
Function buttons (A, B, C) 8
Power On Button 9
Navigation Buttons 9
Transport Control Buttons 9

Record 10
Back Search 10
Play 10
Forward Search 10
Back Index 11
Pause, STOP and Power OFF 11
Forward Index 11

Top Panel 12

Computer FireWire Connector 13
Remote Control, Serial Connector 13

Camera FireWire Connector 13
Rear Panel 14
Side Panel 14
Bottom Panel 15

Internal Speaker 15

The FS-C Menu System 16

FS-C Portable DTE Recorder ix

Table of Contents

Powering the FS-C 20

Connecting the FS-C to AC Power 20
Installing / Removing the Battery Pack 21

Installing a Battery 21
Removing a Battery 21
Charging the Battery 22

Connecting a FS-C to a DV/HD Camcorder 23
Record and Playback with the FS-C 24

Power On the FS-C 24
Select HDD Recorder Mode 25
Select a DV/HD File Format 26
Set Time and Date 27
Record With the FS-C 29

Manual Recording 31

Creating a New File without Dropping Frames 31
Syncro Slave 32
Tapeless 33
Recording Timecode in the File 33
Playback on the FS-C 34

FS-C Using with a Computer 35

Initial Setup 36
Mounting the FS-C in Windows 37

FS-C and FAT 32 40

Using Avid OMF Clips 41
Dismounting the FS-C (Windows) 44
Mounting the FS-C (Macintosh) 45
Dismounting the FS-C (Macintosh) 46
Mounting Hardware 47

Mounting FS-C to a Camcorder 47

Clipping to a Belt 48

FS-C Functions 49

General Screen Information 50

Welcome Screen 50

Home Screen 51

DISP (display) Information Fields 52

FS-C System Information Screens 54
Record Screens 55

Normal Record 56

Retro Cache Record Mode 56

x FS-C Portable DTE Recorder

Table of Contents

Retro Disk Record Mode 57
Loop Record 58

Saving Loop Record Clips 58
Snap Record 58
Time Lapse Record 5 9

HDD Mode Screen 60

Setting Up Master and Slave FS-C 62

Format Screen 63

DV Formats 63
HD Format Screen 64

Setup Screens 65

Date 66
Time 67
Version 67
LCD Light On, Off, Auto 68
Alarm On, Off 68
Stop Frame, Gray, No video 68
EXT CTL OFF, Pause, Frame, File 69
TIME CODE EXT, REC RUN, FREE RUN, REGEN 70
TC SET 71
UB SET 72
TC DROP, NON-DROP 73
HDV TC TYPE 74
LCD CONTRAST 75

Functions Screen 76

Functions List 77

LOCK/UNLK 79

Assigning Clips to Reels 80

Blank 80

Utilities Screen 81

Organize Reel 82
Organize OMF 82
Organize MXF 82
Organize PINN 83
Delete Clip 84
Format Disk 85
Repair Disk 86
Repair Clip 87
File Name 88
Upgrade 89

Upgrade Errors 90
System Reset 91

FS-C Portable DTE Recorder xi

Table of Contents

Diagnostic 91
Status 92

Reels Screen 93

Placing a Clip in a Reel 93

Using a Wired Remote Control 94

Play Screen 95
Play From Screen 96
Control Screen 97

LCD Display Symbols and Text 99
Technical Specifications 101

Physical Description 101
Input/Outputs 101
Power 101
Audio/Video/Timecode Specification 101
DTE File Formats 102
Disk Information 102
Log Files 102
Error Messages 103
Warranty 103
Temperature 103
Compatible Camcorders and Accessories 104

xii FS-C Portable DTE Recorder

Introduction

Thank you for purchasing a Focus Enhancements’ FS-C portable
direct-to-edit (
HD disk recorder with DTE technology designed for hand held
camcorders in a small, rugged and shock proof chassis.

If you edit with applications from Adobe, Apple, Avid,
Canopus, Matrox, Pinnacle, Sony, Ulead, and many others,
Focus Enhancements' DTE Technology is the only solution that
can save hundreds of hours a year by recording clips to disk in
your non-linear editor’s (NLE) native file format.

DTE Eliminates Pre-edit Processing

The FS-C DTE disk recorder eliminates the need to capture,
transfer or convert video clips before editing. The FS-C is a
stand-alone device that records DV25, HD 720p, and HD 1080i
video to its disk drive as a NLE native file. In HD Recorder
mode it has the capability of capturing to disk HD 720p and
1080i video from HDV camcorders equipped with a 1394
interface. For most DV and many HDV compatible NLE
systems, when the disk drive is connected to a computer the
clips are immediately available for editing. Shoot, connect, and
edit: it is now that easy.

DTE) disk recorder. The FS-C is the first portable DV/

These capabilities make the FS-C the perfect companion for the
Canon HDV camcorders.

FS-C Portable DTE Recorder 1

Introduction

Unpacking

2

1

7

5

6

3

4

Verify that the FS-C has the following items:

1. FS-C unit

2. Belt clip

3. User guide

4. Two Firewire cables

5. Power cord

6. Power supply with cable and connector to the FS-C

7. Removable Li-Ion battery pack

Missing or Damaged Components

If there are missing or damaged items, contact Focus Enhancements
Support for assistance.
USA Email: [email protected]
USA Telephone: [phone]
EMEA Email: [email protected]
EMEA Telephone: +49 4307 - 83 58 58

2 FS-C Portable DTE Recorder

Features

FS-C Features

The FS-C offers the following features:

• Tapeless acquisition

Especially equipped camcorders permit the use of
Direct To Edit (DTE) Technology to record directly
from a camcorder while shooting and without the need
of a tape.

• True DTE Technology

When shooting is finished, connect the FS-C to a
computer and instantly be ready to edit in the timeline.
Files are recorded to disk as

Introduction

HD Recorder

M2T

DV Recorder:

AVI Type 1
AVI Type 2
Avid OMF
Canopus AVI
Matrox AVI
Pinnacle
QuickTime
RawDV

DV Recorder
(NTSC units):

AVI Type 2 24p
QuickTime 24p

FS-C provides support for cutting edge HDV
camcorders with 720p and 1080i MPEG-2 capabilities
and FireWire, 1394, connection.

• Fast and Efficient Editing

When shooting is finished, mount the FS-C to a Mac or
PC editing system like a typical FireWire hard disk
drive. Transfer clips to your NLE's media drive at up to
400 Mbps or edit instantly in real-time using the FS-C as
your media source. With some DV and HDV
compatible NLE systems, it is necessary to capture the
video footage using the NLE system’s capture
capability.

• Confidence in Recording

Now, simultaneously record to disk and tape while you
shoot, providing an immediately available, drop out
free, edit source with an archive and backup on tape.

FS-C Portable DTE Recorder 3

Introduction

• Compact, Lightweight, Rugged Design

The FS-C weighs approximately one pound including
the battery and is only 1.5" thick. You can mount the FS­C directly to your camcorder using the optional camera
mount kit, or clip the FS-C directly to your belt. The FS­C is designed to withstand the rigors of field shooting.
The programmable, 10-second electronic shock cache
ensures that your video is always recorded even in the
roughest of conditions.

• Flexible Capacities and Power

The FS-C is available with different capacity hard
drives. See the Focus Enhancements website for more
information,

www.focusinfo.com.

Extend record times by linking two FS-C units together.
Power the FS-C using slim, removable battery packs or

power it using the supplied AC adapter.

• Easy to Use, Control and Update

The FS-C interfaces with your camcorder using a single
FireWire cable that passes audio, video, timecode and
control information. When a tape is present, each press
of start and stop on your camcorder's record button
creates an individual clip on disk. The FS-C features a
comprehensive backlit display, menu system and
buttons allowing easy control and management. In
addition, these units are upgradeable in the field.

• Never Miss A Shot

FS-C's ten second retro record mode means you are
always recording. When action happens, you know up
to ten seconds prior to the event occurring is saved in
your clip.

• Retro Disk and Loop Record modes.

•Scene Marking:

This allows categorizing video clips into pre-named
folders on the disk during a shoot.

• User definable time lapse.

• Loop playback modes.

• Free Run, Rec Run, and Regen timecode modes.

4 FS-C Portable DTE Recorder

FS-C 2.0 upgrade features

• QUICKTIME HD DTE format

• MXF OPatom DV DTE format.

• HD TC display and restripe capabilities.

Introduction

FS-C Portable DTE Recorder 5

6 FS-C Portable DTE Recorder

Quickstart

This section provides the following information necessary for using
the FS-C as quickly as possible.

Physical Description and Basic Controls..................... .... ... ... . 8

The FS-C Menu System ...................................................... 16

Connecting the FS-C to AC Power ..................................... 20

Installing / Removing the Battery Pack ............................... 21

Connecting a FS-C to a DV/HD Camcorder ........................ 23

Record and Playback with the FS-C ................................... 24

Power On the FS-C ............................................................. 24

Select HDD Recorder Mode ................................................ 25

Select a DV/HD File Format ................................................ 26

Set Time and Date .............................................................. 27

Record With the FS-C ......................................................... 29

Manual Recording ............................................................... 31

Syncro Slave ....................................................................... 32

Tapeless .................................. ... ....................................... .. 33

Playback on the FS-C ......................................................... 34

FS-C Portable DTE Recorder 7

Quickstart

Physical Description and Basic Controls

Front Panel Controls

LCD

Display

Function

buttons

A B C

Power ON

Power ON
and Reset

and Reset
Button

Button

Record
Button

Navigation
buttons

Transport

Transport
Control

Control
buttons

buttons

Power OFF

and

Stop button

Speaker

LCD Display

This is a backlit, 14 character by 7 line dot matrix display.

In event of a mild electrical discharge to the unit the LCD could go blank. To
correct, hold the SELECT button down for 5 seconds.

Function buttons (A, B, C)

Below the FS-C LCD display are three user-defined
function buttons: A (left), B (center), and C (right). Use
them as short-cut keys for the most frequently selected
functions at the bottom of the LCD display. The function of
these soft buttons changes, depending on the options
displayed above that specific button. Refer to the

Screen on page 76 for more information.

8 FS-C Portable DTE Recorder

Functions

Quickstart

Power On Button

The Power ON button provides two functions.

•Power ON

Turn on the FS-C.

• Reset FS-C

• FS-C first must be powered on.

• Hold down the

Power On button for more than one

second.

•Power OFF

Hold down the OFF button  for three (3) seconds.
During power off, the FS-C beeps, indicating that it is
turning off.

Alarm OFF

If the Alarm feature is set to OFF, then the power-down sequence
occurs silently.

Navigation Buttons

Use these buttons to navigate through the FS-C menus. The
navigation buttons are

Left, Right, Up, Down, and Select.

T ransport Control Buttons

Record

Back
Search

Back

Index

Use these buttons to control FS-C playback and record
functions. You usually operate these transport buttons
while on the Home screen.

FS-C Portable DTE Recorder 9

Play

STOP

Power Off

Forward
Search

Forward

Index

Quickstart

Record 

Press this button once when the FS-C is in
FS-C into

REC-PAUSE. Press it again to start recording. Pressing

Stop mode to put the

the Record button while recording, causes the current clip to
close and a new clip is created without dropping any frames.
This button is the only button that has a red legend on the front
panel.

Back Search

WW

Press this button to play video at speeds different than real-time.
Refer to the note in the Forward Search section.

Play

X

Press this button to start playback of the selected clip.

Some HDV Camcorders Require a Moment to Synchronize

Some HDV camcorders require a moment to synchronize the video from an
external source. Typically during this period, they display a solid blue or
black video until synchronized.

Forward Search

XX

Press this button to play video at speeds different than real-time.

Fast Forward and Reverse

Pressing the Forward Search button multiple times results in increases in
the search speed, i.e. fast forward. This mode works both in forward and
reverse functions. For instance, if you are in 10X FF speed and you press
the Back Search button once, the FS-C is now in 2X FF mode. In addition,
this applies to backward search speeds. The default speed resolution is as
follows (NTSC and PAL have slightly different multiples for < 1X)

• Reverse: -30X, -10X, -2X, -1X (reverse play), -1/2X(-15fps), Still.

• Forward: Still, +1/2X (+15fps), +1X (play), +2X, +10X, +30X

Fast Forward and Reverse Search Compatible Camcorders

In Forward and Reverse Search modes, some camcorders do not display
video when played-back from an external device, such as the FS-C.

10 F S -C Portable DTE Recorder

Quickstart

Back Index |WW

This button returns the FS-C to the beginning of the current clip
when in playback mode. Press this button twice in sequence to
return the FS-C to the previous clip during playback. In

STOP

mode, press this button to return the FS-C to the beginning of the
previous clip.

Using Back Index with Short Clips

When using Back Index with short clips, it is first necessary to place the
FS-C in STOP mode.

Pause, STOP

 and Power OFF

While in the Home screen, and in any transport mode, press this
button to Pause the FS-C. Press it again to stop the FS-C. Refer to
the section,

To power off the FS-C, hold down the
seconds. During Power OFF and if the Alarm function is

Setup Screens on page 65 for more information.

STOP button  for three

ON, the

FS-C, makes an audible beep indicating it is turning off.

Forward Index

XX|

Use this button to skip forward to the next clip in STOP and PLAY
modes.

FS-C Portable DTE Recorder 11

Quickstart

Top Panel

The top panel contains the following connectors and LEDs:

Remote Control

(Serial Connector)

Computer

(FireWire Connector)

Status LED

Charge LED

Camera
(FireWire Connector)

Charge LED States

LED Indicates
Off No Charger Connected
Green Charging Cycle Completed
Amber / Green Floating Charge Mode
Amber Fast Charge Mode (Maximum charging rate.)
Red Charging Error
Red / Amber No Battery Installed / Battery Error
Amber, flashing Insufficient Voltage to Charger

(Charging almost completed.)

Status LED States

LED Indicates
Off Power OFF
Green Power ON
Orange, solid Playback
Orange, fluttering Hard drive being accessed during playback.
Red, solid Recording Mode
Red, blinking Recording Pause

12 F S -C Portable DTE Recorder

(Power On but there is no activity.)

Quickstart

Computer FireWire Connector

• In/Out: 6-pin IEEE-1394a port x 1

• Asynchronous Data I/O

Remote Control, Serial Connector

• GPI / RS232C; 3.5mm TRS mini jack. (3.5mm to DB-9
cable accessory available).

• Configure as a simple contact closure or RS-232C port.

• Connect an optional wired remote commander.

Camera FireWire Connector

•DV/I/O

• 6-pin IEEE-1394a connector

• Isochronous 25Mb/s DV video I/O
FS-C supports 1080i/720p video I/O when used with
HDV camcorders equipped with a 1394 connection like
the Canon HDV camcorders.

• DV Audio: embedded 2-channel (48kHz, 16-bit) or 2­channel (12-bit, 32kHz) audio, 720p/1080i HDV MPEG1
Audio Layer II.

4-Channel Audio

4-channel (12-bit, 32kHz) audio is available only with RawDV
format.

FireWire Alignment

IMPROPER INSERTION WILL DAMAGE UNIT

Properly Align FireWire Cable and Connector - Do Not Force
Correctly align the FireWire cable to the connector before insertion. The
pointed end of the connector and the jack should be on the same side
before insertion:

Align pointed ends
of connector and
cable jack.

FS-C Portable DTE Recorder 13

Quickstart

Rear Panel

The rear panel contains the following important items:

Belt Clip Post

Fan Intake

Vent

Do Not Block

Battery
Compartment
Latch

Battery
Compartment

Side Panel

The side panel contains cooling vents as illustrated below.

Cooling Vents

Do Not Block

14 F S -C Portable DTE Recorder

Quickstart

Bottom Panel

The FS-C bottom panel features a single 2-pin DC power
connector. Connect the supplied AC power adapter here.

DC

Power

Connector

Cooling Vent

Do Not Block

Internal

Speaker

Internal Speaker

An internal speaker provides alarms and audible feedback.

To disable the audible feedback, go to the Settings menu
and select

ALARM OFF. However, the power, temperature,

and disk capacity alarms are always active.

FS-C Portable DTE Recorder 15

Quickstart

The FS-C Menu System

The FS-C menu system provides access to all the functions
available in the unit. Each of the screens below (except the
Welcome and Home screens which come up automatically
when the unit starts) are accessed by pressing the Left or Right
navigation buttons. The functions of each of the selections on
these screens is explained in more detail in
page 49.

Returning to the Top of Menu or Home screen

To get to the top of any menu, press the Left button. To get back to the
Home screen:

• Highlight the screen title at the top of the screen.

• Press the Select button.

• Welcome

Only appears for several seconds upon power up.

•Home

Gateway screen for all functions, it displays disk and
operational status.

FS-C Functions on

• Control

Contains the following selections:

•Local

• Syncro Slave

•AV/C

• Tapeless

• Play From

Provides lists to select play material from:

•Track List

• Reel List

•Play

Contains the following Play selections:

• Play Clip

• Loop Clip

• Loop All

•Play All

16 F S -C Portable DTE Recorder

Quickstart

•Reels

Allows selected clips to be marked for placement in
particular Reels Folders.

• R0 0

• R1 1

• R2 2

• R3 3

• R4 4

• R5 5

• R6 6

• R7 7

• R8 8

• R9 9

•NONE

• Utilities

Contains the following disk and clip functions:

•Organize Reel

•Organize OMF

• Organize MXF

•Organize PINN

• Delete Clip

•Format

•Repair Disk

• Repair Clip

•File Name

•Upgrade

•System Reset

• Diagnostic

• Status

• Functions

2.0 upgrade only

DV mode only

Contains user definable function button selections.
Changing a setting with a Function button is identical
to changing the setting in its corresponding menu.
Refer to

Functions Screen on page 76 for more

information.

FS-C Portable DTE Recorder 17

Quickstart

•Setup

Contains the controls for setting and reviewing the
FS-C configuration:

• Set Date (MM/DD/YY)

• Set Time (XX:XX:XX)

• View Firmware Version

•LCDLight ON

•LCDLight OFF

• LCDLight AUTO

• Alarm ON

• Alarm OFF

• Stop Frame

• Stop Gray

•Stop No Video

• EXT CTL OFF

• EXT CTL PAUSE

• EXT CTL FRAME

• EXT CTL FILE

•TC EXT (external)

• TC REC RUN

•TC FREE RUN

• TC REGEN (regenerate)

•TC SET

•UB SET

•TC DROP

• TC NON-DROP NTSC only

• HDV TC TYPE

• LCD Contrast

• HDD Mode

Contains the following hard drive selections:

• DV Recorder

•HD Recorder

• DD Drive

•Use Ext. FS-C

DV mode only

DV mode only

DV mode only

DV mode or 2.0 only

DV mode or 2.0 only

DV mode or 2.0 only

NTSC only

HD only in 2.0 upgrade

18 F S -C Portable DTE Recorder

Quickstart

• DV or HD Formats

Following HDD mode is a menu of formats available
for the type recorder selected in HDD mode.

When selecting

DV Recorder the following formats are

shown:

•Raw DV

•AVI Type 1

•AVI Type 2

• Canopus AVI

•Matrox AVI

•Quicktime

•Avid OMF

•Quicktime 24p

• AVI Type 2 24p

• Pinnacle

When selecting HD Recorder the format displayed is:

•M2T

• Record

Contains the following recording functions:

•Normal

•Retro Disk

• Retro Cache

• Loop Record

•SNAP

•Time Lapse

DV mode only

DV mode only

FS-C Portable DTE Recorder 19

Quickstart

Powering the FS-C

• The FS-C operation without a battery installed.

To operate the FS-C without a battery installed, connect
the unit to an AC power source.

• Before operating the FS-C with battery power.

It is first necessary to fully charge the battery. An
uncharged battery, typically takes 2-3 hours to charge.

Connecting the FS-C to AC Power

Attach the AC power cord to the FS-C (with or without battery
installed). The FS-C is immediately ready for operation.

To do this, connect the AC power as follows:

Battery Pack

DC Cable

DC Power Port

1. Plug the cord from the power supply into the bottom of the

FS-C.

2. Connect the line cord to the rectangular power supply.

3. Plug the line cord into an electric outlet.

20 F S -C Portable DTE Recorder

Installing / Removing the Battery Pack

Installing a Battery

Quickstart

Battery
Latch Hook

Latch Slot

Latch

Battery Pack Guides

Gently press DOWN
while sliding battery pack

FORWARD

1. Place the unit, so that the battery compartment is up.

2. Position the battery pack, as shown above, so that the latch
hook is almost in the latch slot, and touching the floor of the
battery compartment.

3. Slide the battery forward while gently pressing down.

Feel the battery slide along guides and seat itself.

4. When seated, the battery latch clicks into place.

Removing a Battery

1. Slide the battery latch to the left and hold.

2. Apply backward pressure to the battery pack at the
triangle/arrow and gently slide the pack back about 1cm or
3/8 in.

This is the reverse motion of inserting the battery.

3. Remove the battery pack.

FS-C Portable DTE Recorder 21

Quickstart

Charging the Battery

The battery begins charging anytime it is connected to AC power
using the AC adapter supplied with the FS-C. The charge LED
lights when the FS-C is charging. For information on the charge
LED, refer to the subsection

Before the battery can be used it must charge until the battery
status LED indicates the unit is fully charged (green).

• The Charge LED on the top of the FS-C lights to show the
battery is charging.

• An uncharged battery takes 2-3 hours to charge with the
unit powered off.

• The battery provided with the FS-C can supply power to
the unit for about 90 minutes while in continuous Record
or Playback mode.

• An optional high capacity battery (
of providing power for almost three hours of continuous
recording is available from Focus Enhancements.

Using FireWire to Charge FS-C

It is possible to charge the FS-C battery through the 1394 port on a
computer provided that the computer outputs at least 15V through the
port. To determine if this is possible, consult the computer’s
specifications.

Battery Use
Misuse can cause property damage and/or bodily injury such as

burns if a conductive material such as jewelry, buttons, or beaded
chains touch exposed terminals. The conductive material may
complete an electrical circuit (short circuit) and become quite hot.
Exercise care in handling a charged battery, particularly when
placing it inside a pocket, purse, or other container with metal
objects.

Warning: Do Not Use Unapproved Battery Chargers
Use of battery chargers not approved by Focus Enhancements

could cause the battery to catch fire or explode.

Top Panel on page 12.

BATT-0009-01) capable

Use Only Original Focus Enhancements FS-BC Battery Chargers
There are four versions of the optional FS-BC battery charger for

use in various parts of the world.

ASYF-0940-01 USA
ASYF-0941-01 Europe
ASYF-0943-01 United Kingdom
ASYF-0944-01 Australia
These optional battery chargers are available from either your
local dealer or online at the Focus Enhancements web store,
www.focusinfo.com/sales/store.

22 F S -C Portable DTE Recorder

Quickstart

Connecting a FS-C to a DV/HD Camcorder

Before performing this procedure, make sure you have
installed and charged the battery, see

Battery Pack

1. Connect the supplied Firewire cable to the “DV I/O” connector

on the top of the FS-C.

2. Locate the FireWire/DV/iLink (or similar) connector on your

video camera. It is located in different places depending upon the
brand of camera. If you are unclear of its location, consult your
video camera manual.

on page 21.

Installing / Removing the

IEEE 1394 Cable

4-pin to 6-pin

FS-C Supplied with 4-pin to 6-pin FireWire Cable

A 4-pin to 6-pin FireWire, 1394, cable is provided with the
FS-C.

FireWire Connector

The FireWire connector on the XL H1 is located on the back side of the
camera, above the XLR connectors. On the XHG1 and XHA1 cameras the
firewire connector is located on the back to the right of the battery
compartment.
For more information, refer to the Canon HDV camcorder’s documentation.

3. Connect the other end of the FireWire, 1394, cable to your video

camera.

4. Turn on the video camera.

5. Turn on the FS-C.

FS-C Portable DTE Recorder 23

Quickstart

Record and Playback with the FS-C

Before using the FS-C, set up the unit as outlined in the
following sections:

Power On the FS-C ....... ... .......................................... ... ... ... 24

Select HDD Recorder Mode ................................................ 25

Select a DV/HD File Format ................................................ 26

Set Time and Date ................. .... ... ... ................................... 27

Record With the FS-C .........................................................29

Manual Recording ............................................................... 31

Syncro Slave ....................................................................... 32

Tapeless ................................. ....................................... ......33

Playback on the FS-C .........................................................34

The values set in these procedures are fixed and persist
through power cycles. To change them, repeat the steps
outlined above.

Power On the FS-C

1. Press the Power ON button for more than one second and release

it.

Power ON

(Reset)

Transport

Buttons

OFF (STOP)

To power OFF,
hold down for 3-5 seconds.

24 F S -C Portable DTE Recorder

Play

Navigation
Buttons

Quickstart

2. The Welcome screen appears and displays while the

The Home screen appears when the FS-C initializes.

FS-C

PORTABLE

DTE RECORDER

3. The Home screen appears when the FS-C first powers up. For

more details about this screen,

Home Screen on page 51.

STOP 1­ COUNTER

00:00:14:02
DISK 1 168 min

REEL
TAPE DISP LOCK

Select HDD Recorder Mode

1. Press the Right navigation button two times until the HDD Mode

display appears.

HDD MODE

-DV RECORDER
HD RECORDER
DD DRIVE
USE EXT FS-C

2. Use the

either DV or HD.

3. Press the

4. Press the

5. Press the

FS-C Portable DTE Recorder 25

Down navigation button to highlight the recorder mode,

Select button on the navigation buttons.
Left button to return to the menu title.
Right button once and advance to the FORMAT screen.

Quickstart

Select a DV/HD File Format

The formats displayed depend on the recorder mode selected
in the previous step, for example
following:

DV FORMATS

RAW DV

-AVI TYPE1
AV I TYPE2
CANOPUS AVI

1. Use the Up and Down navigation buttons to select the DV file

format that supports the preferred NLE system. A dash mark to
the left of a list item indicates that it is the current selection. The
default value is AVI Type 2.

DV24p and PAL 25p Modes

24p modes are only for use with camcorder's that are capable of
DV-24p Advanced mode.

DV RECORDER results in the

PAL 25p camcorders require no special 25p DV format

Check www.focusinfo.com for supported Applications

For a complete and up-to-date list of supported applications and
their associated formats, visit the website:
http://www.focusinfo.com

2. Press the center

3. Press the

4. Press the

26 F S -C Portable DTE Recorder

Select button on the navigation buttons.
Left button to return to the menu title.
Right button once and advance to the SETUP screen.

Quickstart

Set Time and Date

Date and Time Must Be Set

The date and time must be set because they are used in the FS-C file
naming function.

1. Press the Right navigation button several times until the Setup

display appears on the screen as shown below:

SETUP

09 / 15 / 05
11 : 21 : 13
V 1 . 0. 0

-LCDLIGHT ON

2. Use the

the

Down navigation button to highlight the date and press

Right navigation button to access the SET DATE screen.

SET DATE
09 / 15 / 05

MM / DD / YY

BACK

3. Use the

highlighted value. Use the
highlight the Month, Day, and Year.

4. When complete, press the right-most Function button indicated

as

SETUP screen.

Up and Down navigation buttons to change the

Right and Left navigation buttons to

BACK on the screen. The new date will be indicated on the

FS-C Portable DTE Recorder 27

Quickstart

5. Use the Down navigation button to select the time and press the

Right navigation button. The following screen appears:

SET TIME

11 : 21 : 13

HH : MM : SS

BACK

6. Use the

Up and Down navigation buttons to change the

highlighted value. Use the Right and Left navigation buttons to
highlight the Hour, Minute, and Second. (Time is indicated in
24hr. mode.)

7. Press the right-most Function button indicated as

screen. The new date appears on the

SETUP screen.

BACK on the

The Time and Date are now set.

8. Press the

Left navigation button followed by the Select button to

return to the beginning screen.

For more information on the Setup function, refer to the section,

Setup Screens on page 65.

28 F S -C Portable DTE Recorder

Quickstart

Record With the FS-C

There are four modes of recording with the FS-C.

• Manual Recording

Control with the FS-C transport buttons.

• Syncro Slave

Use this mode with camcorders that do not have FS-C
compatible external control or tapeless trigger
functionality. In this mode, the FS-C watches the record
status of the camcorder and replicates its actions. A
tape must be in the camcorder for this mode to
function.

• Tapeless

Control recording with other camcorders that have
FS-C compatible external control or tapeless trigger
capabilities. Use this control mode with companion
Canon camcorders, like the XLH1, XHG1, and XHA1.

Before beginning recording, verify that:

1. Time and date are set.

2. Recording format is set.

3. The FS-C is connected to the video camera according to
the explanation in
on page 23.

4. Camera and FS-C are powered on.

5. Tape is loaded in the camera.

Connecting a FS-C to a DV/HD Camcorder

Tapeless Control

If the camcorder supports an external control function, then tapeless
recording is possible. Otherwise, the FS-C control panel keys must be
used to control recording in LOCAL control mode when there is no
tape in the camcorder.

For a list of compatible camcorders, go to Focus Enhancements
website at http://www.focusinfo.com.

FS-C Portable DTE Recorder 29

Quickstart

Do Not Disconnect Power or FireWire Cable

Never disconnect the power or the FireWire cable during a
recording. This will cause file corruption.

Loss of Power During Recording
If power is lost during recording it is possible to repair the
damaged file or files, refer

Repair Disk on page 86 to and

Repair Clip DV Mode only on page 87.

Troubleshooting: Counter Not Incrementing

If the Counter does not increment while recording from the camera, it
is an indication that there is no active connection between the FS-C
and the camera.

• V erify that the FS-C 1394 DV I/O and the camera connections are
secure. It may be necessary to unplug and then reconnect them.

When a good connection is made, the Counter increments and
recording starts.

Verify Record Mode Matches Source Video Content and Format

If in DV Recorder mode, HD content will not record properly. A NTSC
or PAL DV source records only on a matching NTSC or PAL unit.

Switch Camera to External Control Mode

To set your companion Canon camcorder to external control mode,
turn the SYSTEM>DV CONTROL menu to ON.

EXTERNAL Control Requires 5 Second Wait

When using EXTERNAL control, FS-C requires a 5 second wait period
between stopping and starting a recording.

HDV Recording with Tape

When recording with a tape in the camera, there may be small clips at
the beginning of the FS-C recording. This is normal.

30 F S -C Portable DTE Recorder

Manual Recording

1. Set the video camera to Camera or Cam mode.

2. Verify that an image appears in the viewfinder.

3. On the FS-C, press Record
This sets the FS-C to

Record 

Stop  (OFF)

 once.

Record-Pause mode.

Quickstart

4. On the FS-C, press Record

 button a second time. The FS-

C begins to record. The timecode value is displayed on the
screen.

5. Press

6. Press

Stop  (OFF) once to return the FS-C to

Record-Pause mode.

Record  and the FS-C begins to record again on the

same clip.

7. Press

8. Press

Stop  (OFF) twice to stop the recording.

Record  twice to begin recording a new clip.

Creating a New File without Dropping Frames

When in record mode, it is possible to break the recording into a
separate, new file without dropping frames.

Press

Record  and the FS-C automatically creates a new clip.

FS-C Portable DTE Recorder 31

Quickstart

Syncro Slave

CONTROL

LOCAL

-SYNCRO SLAVE
AV / C
TAPELESS

This mode is for camcorders that do not have external
control or the tapeless control functionality compatible
with the FS-C.

• Syncro Slave mode requires that a tape be in the
camcorder for operation.

• The FS-C must be set to

• In this mode, the FS-C watches the record state of the
camcorder and follows its actions.

When Synchro Slave mode is entered from the menu, the
Home screen appears with the Pause indicator displayed in
the upper left-hand corner along with a
the FS-C is following the camcorder’s record state.

1. Verify that the FS-C is in STOP mode.

2. From the FS-C Home screen, press the
button several times until the

Syncro Slave control mode.

Y that indicates that

Right navigation

CONTROL screen appears:

3. Use the
dash on the left side of an item indicates it is the current
selection. The default value is

4. Press the

5. The beginning screen returns and a
appears in the upper left-hand corner. Next to this symbol,
is a
of the connected camcorder.

6. Now the FS-C will record at the same time the camcorder
records to tape.

32 F S -C Portable DTE Recorder

Down navigation button to select Syncro Slave. The

Local.

Select navigation button.

Pause indicator

Y indicating that FS-C is now following the record state

Quickstart

Tapeless

CONTROL

LOCAL
SYNCRO SLAVE

AV / C

-TAPELESS

Use the Tapeless control mode with camcorders that are
compatible with FS-C external control or tapeless operation
capabilities.

•When the FS-C is in
with the tape state, indicating that the unit is in

Tapeless mode, an E displays along

Tapeless

mode.

• Use the camcorder’s

REC button to Start and Stop the FS-

C tapeless recording.

• The camcorder’s Tapeless control or tapeless trigger
function must be enabled for this mode to work.

Refer to the camcorder User Manual for more details.

Recording Timecode in the File

Select EXT TC in the Setup menu. This option records the
video camera timecode in the file. There are other timecode
options available, refer to TIME CODE on page 70.

Function buttons

The tasks discussed above are available for programming into the function
buttons. For information on setting up function buttons, refer to the section,

Functions Screen on page 76

FS-C Portable DTE Recorder 33

Quickstart

Playback on the FS-C

Verify that both the video camera and the FS-C are powered on
and that they are connected together with the FireWire cable
from the FS-C DV/IO port to the camcorder 1394 port.

Feature Availability on PAL Cameras

This feature is not available on some PAL cameras.

1. Set the video camera to VTR or playback mode.

2. Navigate to the video clip to preview, using the FS-C

Right transport control buttons.

Play

Left and

Back

Search

Left

Transport

(Back Index)

3. Press the FS-C

Play button.

4. Search through the clips using the FS-C

Index

, Backward Index, or Backward Search buttons. Refer to

Navigation Buttons on page 9 for more information on the

Right

Transport

(Forward Index)

Forward Search, Forward

function of these buttons.

Camcorder Compatibility with External Players

Some HD camcorders are not compatible with the external player
functions Forward/Reverse Search and Pause.

VTR/CAMERA Setting

T o change the VTR/CAMERA setting, use the dial on the left side of
the Canon HDV camcorder.

Forward
Search

34 F S -C Portable DTE Recorder

FS-C

Using with a Computer

Once video clips are recorded to the FS-C it is possible to use those
clips in most computer based DV/HD NLE systems. This section
contains the following:

Initial Setup ................... ... .......................................... .... ..... 36

Mounting the FS-C in Windows ........................................... 37

FS-C and FAT 32.. ... ... ... ... ....................................... ... .... ... .. 40

Using Avid OMF Clips (Required for DV mode only) ........... 41

Dismounting the FS-C (Windows)........................................ 44

Mounting the FS-C (Macintosh) .......................................... 45

Dismounting the FS-C (Macintosh) ......... ... .... ... ... ... ... .... ... .. 46

In the past, to get footage into an NLE system, it was necessary
to capture / digitize the footage using a video capture card. For
most DV and some HDV compatible NLE systems, FS-C DTE
functionality eliminates the capture stage. All that is necessary
is the moving of the video files from the FS-C to a computer.

Recording for Unsupported NLE

If a desired NLE is not supported by Focus Enhancements DTE, it is
necessary to use the AV/C control to capture the video footage for editing.
For more details refer to

Control Screen on page 97.

FS-C Portable DTE Recorder 35

FS-C Using with a Computer

To move video files from the FS-C to a computer:

•Connect the FS-C’s

Computer I/O 1394 port directly to a

computer with an active OHCI compliant IEEE-1394
FireWire port and the necessary FireWire disk drive
drivers.

For More Information

Go to the FOCUS Enhancements' website (www.focusinfo.com) for
more compatibility information.

• Use the FS-C HDD Bypass mode, refer below for more
information.

The FS-C is compatible with any computer system that can
read FAT 32 volumes, such as Windows 98SE/ME/2000/XP
and Mac OS9/OS10.

Initial Setup

1. Connect the FS-C through its COMPUTER I/O 1394 port to the

computer system using a standard 6-pin to 6-pin FireWire cable.

2. Enter HDD mode and enable DD Drive.

This step is required before mounting the FS-C to a computer.

• On the FS-C go to the HDD screen.

• Select DD Drive and Right arrow to Connect screen.

•Press Enable function button.

Refer to the section, HDD Mode Screen on page 60

3. Connect power to the drive if necessary.

4. Consult the computer’s documentation for more information.

36 F S -C Portable DTE Recorder

FS-C Using with a Computer

Mounting the FS-C in Windows

Use this procedure for Windows XP, 2000, 98SE and ME.

1. On a Windows-based computer system, double click the My

Computer

directory window appears.

2. Locate the FS-C drive and open it.

Often, it appears as a standard FireWire disk drive and may be
labeled E:, F:, G:, and so on.

3. Open the FS-C disk icon.

4. Open the folder with the most recent date code.

icon on the top left hand corner of the desktop. A

FS-C Portable DTE Recorder 37

FS-C Using with a Computer

This folder may contain several different files. The video clips.
can appear as:

• RawDV (.dv)

• AVI Type 1 - (YYYYMMDDHHMMSSa01)

• AVI Type 2 or AVI Type 2 24p ­(YYYYMMDDHHMMSSb01)

• Canopus AVI - (YYYYMMDD-HHMMSSb01)

• Matrox AVI - (YYYYMMDD-HHMMSSm01
This file has a separate .wav audio file per track.

• QuickTime or Quicktime 24p (.mov)

• Pinnacle - (YYYYMMDD-HHMMSSp01
There are two separate .wav audio files per track.

• Avid OMF (.omf )
OMF has two separate .aif audio files per track.

FS-C Video Clips in Reel Folder

FS-C permits the storing of video clips in either the standard
file folder or a Reel folder. If video clips have been assigned
to a Reel folder, it is necessary to run Organize Reels before
attaching the FS-C to a computer.

38 F S -C Portable DTE Recorder

FS-C Using with a Computer

HD Resolution and Frames

• M2T and MOV filename format:

YYYYMMDD-HHMMSSX01.m2t or .mov
where the X is a letter indicating the resolution of the

captured video file. The table below lists letters and
associated resolutions. Not all HDV camcorders support
these resolutions.

X Resolution X Resolution
d 720p , 23.976 fps * D 1080i, 23.976 fps
b 720p , 24 fps * B 1080i, 24 fps
c 720p, 25 fps C 1080i, 25 fps
a 720p, 29.97 fps A 1080i, 29.97 fps
e 720p, 30 fps E 1080i, 30 fps

f 720p, 50 fps * F 1080i, 50 fps
g 720p , 59.94 fps * G 1080i, 59.94 fps
h 720p , 60 fps * H 1080i, 60 fps
y 576p, 50 fps *

z 480p, 60 fps *

* These resolutions are not supported in the HD RECORDER
QUICKTIME format. The unit will not record these resolutions
when the camera is in HD RECORDER QUICKTIME format.

FS-C Portable DTE Recorder 39

FS-C Using with a Computer

FS-C and FAT 32

The FAT32 file system limits file size to a maximum of 2GB or
approximately, 9 minutes of recording time.

Recording Time Depends on Recorder Mode and Resolution

The number of minutes per 2G file depends upon the recorder mode and
resolution:

• DV - 9 minutes,

• 720p (MOV) - 10 minutes,

• 720p (M2T) - 13 minutes,

• 1080i (MOV) - 8 minutes,

• 1080i (M2T) - 9 minutes,

When clips exceed 2GB in size, the FS-C automatically creates a
new, file without dropping any frames. The two files have the
same root filename but have different two digit suffixes that
indicate the order of their creation, -01, -02, and so on. This
process can produce as many sequential 2GB files as the drive
can hold.

With most DV and many HDV compatible NLE systems on
Windows or Macintosh computers, it is possible to use clips
within the timeline. Select the clips on the source volume, i.e.
the connected FS-C, and import them directly into the NLE bin.

This makes clips immediately available in the NLE timeline.

The high transfer speed of the FS-C drive permits direct
streaming of the clips to the NLE, thus eliminating the need to
copy or transfer the clips before their use.

40 F S -C Portable DTE Recorder

FS-C Using with a Computer

Using Avid OMF Clips (Required for DV mode only)

These steps are required when using Avid OMF formatted
clips.

The Avid OMF file format was developed for use with Avid
editing products on Windows 2000, Windows XP or Mac 0SX.
These products include Avid Xpress Pro, NewsCutter, and
Media Composer Adrenaline (with the DV option).

The Avid OMF file format creates three files simultaneously;
one OMF video file and two separate AIF audio files. On the
computer's desktop, the files appear similar to those shown
below.

On the FS-C, the video file (OMF) and the audio files (AIF)
appear as one track.

When an Avid OMF file is deleted, the FS-C deletes the audio
and video portions at the same time.

FS-C Portable DTE Recorder 41

FS-C Using with a Computer

To use a FS-C recorded Avid OMF file on an Avid NLE system,
use the following procedure.

ORGANIZE OMF Function

If using the ORGANIZE OMF function on the FS-C before connecting it to a
computer, steps 2 and 3 are not necessary

1. Locate and open the FS-C drive folder.

2. Create a new folder and name it

3. To do this in Windows, select

4. To do this with Macintosh, select
type

OMFI MediaFiles.

5. Drag all the OMF and AIF files into the new folder:

Do Not Drag in the files titled Desktop DB or Desktop DF.

6. Launch Avid.

7. Open an existing project or create a new one.

8. Select Tools>MediaTool. A screen similar to the following
appears:

OMFI MediaFiles.

File>New>Folder .

File>New Folder. Next,

42 F S -C Portable DTE Recorder

FS-C Using with a Computer

9. Locate and select the FS-C under Media Drive(s).

If Drive Does Not Appear

If the drive does not appear, check to make sure that the
OMFI MediaFiles folder was created correctly with proper
case and spacing.In addition, verify that the drive is properly
connected and recognized by the computer. Under
Project(s), select All Projects (This highlights all items in
the Project(s) window).

10. Verify that Master Clips is checked and press

OK. The

Media Tools Window, similar to the following, appears:

11. Create a new bin (select

File -> New Bin) or open an existing

bin in Avid.

12. Select all items in the Media Tools window (select

Select All).

Edit>

13. Drag the contents of the Media Tools Window into the bin.
It is now possible to use these clips in the Avid timeline.

FS-C Portable DTE Recorder 43

FS-C Using with a Computer

Dismounting the FS-C (Windows)

When finished working with the FS-C and the computer, it is
necessary to dismount FS-C from the system

Dismount FS-C Before Powering Off

It is important to dismount the FS-C from the Windows system
BEFORE powering down the unit.

To do dismount the FS-C:

1. Click the Safely Remove Hardware icon at the bottom right side of

the Windows task bar as shown below.

Unplug or Eject Hardware Icon

(Safely Remove Hardware)

2. Next, the computer system prompts to remove the connected

FS-C. This begins the dismount process.

3. Select the message and click on it.

The computer dismounts the FS-C and then displays a message
that it is now safe to remove the unit.

44 F S -C Portable DTE Recorder

FS-C Using with a Computer

Mounting the FS-C (Macintosh)

1. Start the Mac computer and connect the FS-C’s COMPUTER I/O

port to the computer using a standard 6-pin to 6-pin FireWire
cable.

When mounted, the FS-C should appear on the computer's
desktop as shown below:

The FS-C appears as a FAT32 volume with a PC label.

2. Locate the FS-C on the desktop and open it up.

3. Open the folder with the most recent date code (for example,

“20050127-110345-01”). It should look similar to the following:

Before Connecting FS-C to a Computer

If clips have been assigned to a Reel folder: perform an Organize
Reels before connecting the unit to a computer.

FS-C Portable DTE Recorder 45

Dismounting the FS-C (Macintosh)

When finished working with the FS-C and the Macintosh it is
necessary to dismount the unit from the system.

Dismount FS-C Before Powering Off

It is important to dismount the FS-C from the Mac system
BEFORE powering down the FS-C.

To dismount the FS-C from a Mac:

1. Select the FS-C on the computer's desktop. It is marked with a PC

symbol.

2. Drag the drive into the

dismounts the particular disk drive.

3. It is now safe to remove the FS-C.

Eject Shortcut for Two-button Mouse

If the Macintosh is equipped with a two-button mouse, the following shortcut is
available.

• Right-click the FS-100 icon on the desk top.

• Select the Eject function from the pop-up menu.

Trash or use the Eject button. This

46 F S -C Portable DTE Recorder

FS-C Using with a Computer

Mounting Hardware

Mounting FS-C to a Camcorder

Mount the FS-C to your camcorder using the optional
Camcorder Mount Kit (P/N ASYF-0849-01). For more
information about this kit or to order it, contact Focus
Enhancements:

USA
Email: [email protected]
Telephone: [phone]
Address: Focus Enhancements, Inc.

EMEA (Europe, Middle East, Africa)
Email: [email protected]
Telephone: +49 4307 - 83 58 58
Fax: +49 4307 - 83 58 99
Address: COMO Computer & Motion GmbHA

1370 Dell Avenue
Campbell, CA. 95008
www.focusinfo.com

A Focus Enhancements Company
Lise-Meitner-Str. 15
24223 Raisdorf / Germany
www.focusinfo.com

FS-C Portable DTE Recorder 47

FS-C Using with a Computer

Clipping to a Belt

Belt Mount Clip

Front View Side View

FS-C
Belt Clip Post

A belt mount clip is included with the FS-C. This mount is
similar to those used with cellular telephones. Attach the belt
mount to the belt clip post on the rear of the FS-C and push it
down to lock it in position. The belt clip can ratchet to various
positions when attached to a belt.

48 F S -C Portable DTE Recorder

FS-C Functions

This section contains information on the following LCD displays:

General Screen Information .... ... ... .... ... ............................... 50

Record Screens .................................................................. 55

HDD Mode Screen ........ ... .... ... ... ... .... ... ... ... .... ... ... ... ... .... ... .. 60

Format Screen ................. .... .......................................... ..... 63

HD Format Screen ............................................... ... ... .... ... .. 64

Setup Screens ..................................................................... 65

Functions Screen ................................................................ 76

Utilities Screen ........................................... .... ... ... ... ... .... ..... 81

Control Screen .................................................................... 97

FS-C screens are organized in a flat hierarchy. Every screen has
a unique name, and it is possible to cycle continuously through
the screens using the

Left and Right navigation buttons.

Use the

Up and Down navigation buttons to cycle through

screen items (selections).

Use the

FS-C Portable DTE Recorder 49

Select Navigation button to make a choice.

Navigation Tip: Jump to Top of Display Using the Left Button

When navigating through the LCD displays and scrolling down into the
menu, press the Left navigation button on the front panel and immediately
return to the top of the display, which allows navigating to other displays.

Jump to Home display Using Select Button

To return immediately to the Home Screen, navigate to the menu title at the
top of the screen and press the Select button.

FS-C Functions

General Screen Information

The FS-C LCD displays are organized by function with each
screen displaying a list of items. An item can be:

• A value that can be set, such as the date.

• A switch similar to a check box, that can be enabled
along with other options in the display.

• A switch similar to a radio button, that belongs to a
family of options, in which only one can be active at
any time.

• A link to another display, which is indicated by a .

SETUP

01 / 16 / 06
09 : 30 : 19

Menu Title

Appears at the top of the
display and identifies its
topic or function.

V 1 . 0. 0

-LCDLIGHT ON

Navigation

Use the Left or Right
navigation buttons to move
to the previous or next
display.

Use the Up and Down
navigation buttons to move
between the items in the
display.

Welcome Screen

The Welcome screen appears briefly after boot-up, and
automatically switches to the Home screen when the FS-C is
ready for operation.

FS-C

PORTABLE

DTE RECORDER

50 F S -C Portable DTE Recorder

FS-C Functions

Home Screen

The Home screen is read only and has no navigable items. To
leave the Home screen use either the
button.

1

Left or Right Navigation

2

11
12

STOP 1­ COUNTER

00:00:14:02
DISK 1 168 min

10

REEL
TAPE DISP LOCK

7

8

9

1. Current Function: Symbol and Description

Refer to LCD Display Symbols and Text on page 99.

2. Volume Disk Number

The volume number is always
connected, refer to

USE EXT FS-C on page 61.

1 unless multiple FS-C’s are

3. Clip Number

Number of the current video clip, i.e. 001 for clip 1.
The system can hold a maximum number of 999 clips.

4. Battery Life Gauge

This gauge is accurate only when the unit is powered
exclusively from the battery.

5. Timecode Value

Either Drop Frame - 00;00;00;00 or, Non Drop Frame -
00:00:00:00.

6. Time remaining on the disk.

7. FA Functions with

Screen

on page 76 for more information.

8. FB Functions with

Screen

on page 76 for more information.

9. FC Functions with

Screen

on page 76 for more information.

TAPE as the default, refer to Functions

DISP as the default, refer to Functions

LOCK as the default, refer to Functions

3

4

5

6

FS-C Portable DTE Recorder 51

FS-C Functions

10. Reel Display

In

Record or Playback modes, this item displays the particular

REEL that a clip is located in or, has been marked to. If in

PLAY FROM > REEL LIST mode, the REEL appears in

brackets for example, [REEL]. This area is blank if
has been selected.

11.

DISP information field that displays data type.
DISP information field that displays current data.

12.

DISP (display) Information Fields

Use the DISP function button to display current operation
information fields 11 and 12. The data shown depends on
the mode of operation, i.e. DV or HD Recorder.

NO REEL

Pressing the

DISP button advances the display to the next

category of information. Below is a table of the data types
and data available with

Field
Number

11 COUNTER

12 Shows frame count of current video clip during record or

11 REMAINING
12 Record: counts down number of available frames

1 1 DV (NTSC or PAL) or HD (see note following table)
12 The type of timecode displayed in HD RECORDER

11 UB NTSC

Data Type /
Data Description

playback.

remaining, as time, on a specific disk.

Playback: displays time remaining of the current clip.

mode from this screen is defined by the HDV TC TYPE
setting. See HDV TC TYPE page 74.

Record: displays the external timecode value being

generated by a camcorder or other device during a
recording session. Timecode mode must be set to EXT

TC for this function to operate, refer to TIME CODE
EXT, REC RUN, FREE RUN, REGEN on page 70.
Playback: displays the embedded DV timecode value in

a particular track.

DISP.

52 F S -C Portable DTE Recorder

FS-C Functions

12 Displays the set user bit value in a particular clip. A user

bit value must be added for this to display, refer to UB

SET on page 72.

1 1 ABSOLUTE
12 Displays an absolute timecode valu e for the particular

session: the sum of all COUNTER timecodes on
connected volumes.
Absolute is primarily used when setting the FS-C to AV/
C mode and controlling it with an external FireWire
device, such as a computer.

DV (NTSC or PAL) and HD

The information displayed in fields 11 and 12 depends, in part, on which
Recorder Mode is set.

DV RECORDER

Line 11 displays the Standard Definition (SD) video format. It can not be
changed.

HD RECORDER

Line 11 displays the HD resolution of the current track which depends on
the camcorder in use with the FS-C HD unit. Possible values are:

• 1080/50i TC

• 1080/60i TC

• 1080/30F

• 1080/24F

• 1080/25F

• 720/60 TC

• 720/50 TC

• 720/30p TC

• 720/25p TC

• 720/24p TC

• 576/50p TC

• 480/60p TC

Refer to the camcorder manual for supported resolutions.

FS-C Portable DTE Recorder 53

FS-C Functions

FS-C System Information Screens

The FS-C automatically creates information screens to indicate
conditions such as high temperature, power remaining, or
drive capacity remaining.

WARNING

5%

POWER

REMAINING

OK

Press

OK to clear the screen and return to the last screen.

54 F S -C Portable DTE Recorder

FS-C Functions

Record Screens

RECORD

NORMAL

-RETRO DISK
RETRO CACHE
LOOP RECORD

The Record screen permits setting the FS-C to various
recording modes, depending on the model:

•NORMAL

• RETRO DISK

• RETRO CACHE

• LOOP RECORD

• SNAP

• TIME LAPSE DV modes only

DV modes only

Once a record mode is selected, the recorder remains in that
mode until a different mode is chosen. Exiting the
screen and returning to

Home, enables the selected recording

Record

mode.

To verify that the digital recorder is set to the correct recording
mode, refer to the upper left-hand of the Home screen where
the recorder mode is displayed.

Record Mode Indicator
(Retro Cache)

C STOP 1 -

Symbol Indicates

L Retro Disk
C Retro Cache

O Loop Record

FS-C Portable DTE Recorder 55

FS-C Functions

Symbol Indicates

SNAP Snap Record

T Time Lapse

For more about LCD display symbols and text, see LCD Display

Symbols and Text

on page 99.

Normal Record

This is the standard recording mode.

• All control is from the FS-C front panel.
Initially, the

• Pressing Record

Home screen displays  STOP.

 puts the FS-C into II REC P AUSE

mode.

• Pressing Record

 a second time puts the FS-C into REC

mode.

Retro Cache Record Mode

RETRO CACHE

:00

:SS

This line is not active:
reference only.

BACK

The Retro Cache mode insures that important material at the
very start of a recording session is captured. Retro Cache stores
in the on board memory a continuous loop of video captured
by video camera during pauses. Pressing Record

 begins

active recording at the last frame stored in the cache. The
resulting video clip has the cached video at the beginning.

Retro Cache is available in

Local, Syncro Slave, and Tapeless

control modes.

Set the length of video that the Retro Cache should store: 0 to
10 seconds.

56 F S -C Portable DTE Recorder

FS-C Functions

Retro Disk Record Mode

RETRO DISK

HDD AVAIL:
176 min

RETRO TIME:
010 min

BACK

The Retro Disk mode records video in a continuous loop to a
user-defined portion of disk space. Pressing Record
seamlessly begins active recording. The Retro Disk session is
appended to the beginning of the new clip. The result is a set of
clips beginning with the cached video and continuing with the
newly recorded video.

• When calculating the amount of hard disk space

needed for a Retro Disk record session, always include
additional space beyond the recording requirements.
The added space depends on the length of the loop.

• Loops less than 60 minutes, need an additional 1 minute
of unused disk space.

• Loops 60 minutes and greater, require an additional 2GB
of unused disk space.

• When looping less than one hour, Retro Disk records
the loop in a series of 1 minute clips.

• Retro Disk is available in

Local, Syncro Slave and Tapeless

control modes.

• When Retro Disk is set, the symbols
appear in the FS-C display.

This is the only
editable line on screen.



L (Record and L)

FS-C Portable DTE Recorder 57

FS-C Functions

Loop Record

Loop Record is similar to Retro Disk.

Loop Record continuously records a series of video clips to
available disk space. When all available disk space is used,
Loop Record begins sequentially replacing the earliest clip
with the most recent.

• The size of the video clip depends on the length of the
loop.

• Loops of 60 minutes or less are recorded in one-minute

clips.

• Loops greater than 60 minutes, are recorded in 2GB clips.

• When the capacity of the disk is reached, one additional

clip is created. The size of the last clip depends on the
length of the loop i.e., one-minute or 2GB. The disk must
have at least 30 minutes of disk space available for this
functionality.

Saving Loop Record Clips

Press STOP during a record session.

The FS-C stops recording and saves the current LOOP RECORD
session clips to a folder on the disk.

Snap Record DV modes only

Use Snap to record individual frames. In Snap mode, pressing
Record
in the same session are stored in a single file.

58 F S -C Portable DTE Recorder

 captures individual frames. All the frames recorded

• To start a new

STOP between SNAP records.

SNAP record session, place the unit in

• Snap Record is available only in DV modes of
operation.

•Use Snap in

Local, Syncro Slave, and Tapeless control

modes.

• Removing power from the FS-C in the midst of a Snap
recording session causes the unit to return to Normal
recording mode when it powers back up.

Another Method to Capture Single Frames

An alternative to Snap is EXT CTL FRAME. For more information see

EXT CTL OFF, Pause, Fr ame, File on page 69.

Time Lapse Record DV modes only

TIME LAPSE
00:00:00:00

HH:MM:SS:FF

BACK

FS-C Functions

This line is not active:
reference only.

Time lapse provides the ability to record a single frame at
specific time intervals, for example one frame per minute,
00:01:00:00. Time lapse applications can include capturing the
traffic on city streets, the growth of a plant from seed to
maturity, and construction projects.

Features of the Time Lapse function include:

• All the captured frames are recorded in a single clip.

• The time between recording periods can be set in

frames, seconds, minutes, and hours.

• The maximum time between recorded frames is 24

hours.

FS-C Portable DTE Recorder 59

FS-C Functions

HDD Mode Screen

HDD MODE

-DV RECORDER
HD RECORDER
DD DRIVE >
USE EXT FS-C

This screen displays the following items:

• DV RECORDER

This sets the FS-C as a DV recorder.
Connect the camera to the FS-C DV I/O port using a

FireWire cable.

• HD RECORDER

This sets the FS-C as an HD recorder.
Connect the camera to the FS-C DV I/O port using a

FireWire cable.
Recording in this mode only works with HDV

camcorders that have a 1394 FireWire connector and
that support an HD resolution, such as 1080i or 720p.

Switching Between Recorder Modes (DV and HD)

Switching between recorder modes resets the RECORDER mode to
Normal, see

Power-cycle After Changing Recorder Modes

It is recommended that the FS-C be power-cycled after switching
RECORDER modes.

• DD DRIVE

Normal Record on page 56.

Use this option when connecting the FS-C to a
computer. The FS-C functions as a volume visible to the
computer. In addition, this setting permits the
connecting of multiple
FS-Cs together to increase recording space.

60 F S -C Portable DTE Recorder

FS-C Functions

• USE EXT FS-C

Use this option when longer recording times are
needed.

USE EXT FS-C permits the connecting of two FS-

C together to provide more disk storage for longer
recording. One unit acts as the master with the other as
a slave: the master records to itself until full and then
continues recording on the slave unit.

Identifying Master/Slave Volumes During Record/Playback
When two FS-Cs are in combined via USE EXT FS-C and in either
Record or Playback mode, the volume on the Home screen will

display 1-xxx when the master unit is recording or playing back and 2­xx if it is the slave.

FS-C Portable DTE Recorder 61

FS-C Functions

Setting Up Master and Slave FS-C

4

1

2

Master FS-C

STOP 1 - 001
COUNTER
00 : 00 : 00 : 00
DISK 1 000min

TAPE DISP LOCK

Slave FS-C

CONNECT

COMPUTER THEN
ENABLE BYPASS

SUCCESS
EXIT

1. Connect the camcorder to the master FS-C, DV I/O connector

using the supplied FireWire cable.

2.

Master

Power on unit.
Go to the HDD Mode menu screen and enable

USE EXT FS-C.

3. Connect the FS-Cs through the units

Computer I/O connectors

using a 6-pin to 6-pin FireWire cable.

4.

Slave

Power on the unit
Go to the

5.

Master

HDD Mode screen and enable DD DRIVE.

Begin recording or playback using the master FS-C.

3

Use DD Drive Mode when Connecting to a PC

It is important to take the master FS-C out of USE EXT FS-C
mode before attempting to connect to a computer.
To do this, select DD DRIVE from the HDD Mode screen.
This returns use of the unit to hard disk mode.

62 F S -C Portable DTE Recorder

Format Screen

DV Formats

-RAW DV
AVI TYPE 1
AVI TYPE 2
CANOPUS AVI

DV formats include:

•RAW DV

• AVI TYPE 1

• AVI TYPE 2

•CANOPUS AVI

• MATROX AVI

• QUICKTIME

•AVID OMF

• QUICKTIME 24P

• AVI TYPE 2 24P (NTSC only)

• PINNACLE

•MXF OPAtom

FS-C 2.0 upgrade only

FS-C Functions

DV FORMATS

(NTSC only)

Using Organize

AVID OMF, MXF OPAtom (2.0 only) and PINNACLE formats require using
the Utilities functions, Organize OMF, Organize MXF, or Organize PINN
respectively. Refer to the section,

Formats for 25P Applications

Use standard file formats for all 25P applications except AVID OMF. OMF is
not compatible with 25P DV streams.

Utilities Screen on page 81.

The latest DTE supported applications and file formats are
listed on the Focus Enhancements website:
www.focusinfo.com.

FS-C Portable DTE Recorder 63

FS-C Functions

HD Format Screen

HD FORMATS

-M2T
QUICKTIME

The FS-C 2.0 upgrade provides the additional HD DTE format
QUICKTIME

The latest DTE supported applications and file formats are
listed on the Focus Enhancements website:
www.focusinfo.com.

Check regularly for updates.

64 F S -C Portable DTE Recorder

FS-C Functions

Setup Screens

SETUP

10 / 10 / 05
21 : 10: 50
V 2. 0. 0

-LCDLIGHT ON

The items on the Setup Screen are grouped by function. Within
the function the items act like radio buttons, i.e. when one is
active the others are not.

In some cases, such as the Date, a settings screen appears. To
return from a settings screen, use the

The items displayed on the Setup screen include:

BACK function button.

•DATE Displayed

•TIME

• VERSION

• LCDLIGHT ON

• LCDLIGHT OFF

• LCDLIGHT AUTO

• ALARM ON

• ALARM OFF

• STOP FRAME; (1st frame of current clip)

•STOP GRAY DV mode only

• STOP NO VIDEO Group Default

• EXT CTL OFF Group Default

• EXT CTL PAUSE

FS-C Portable DTE Recorder 65

Displayed

Displayed

Group Default

Group Default

DV mode only

FS-C Functions

• EXT CTL FRAME

• EXT CTL FILE

• TC EXT

• TC REC RUN

• TC FREE RUN

• TC REGEN

Group Default

DV mode or 2.0 only

DV mode or 2.0 only

DV mode or 2.0 only

• TC SET

• UB SET

• TC DROP

• TC NON-DROP

• HDV TC TYPE

• LCD CONTRAST

Date and Time Must Be Set

The date and time must be set. They are used in the FS-C file naming function.
Refer to

Set Time and Date on page 27.

NTSC only

Default, NTSC only

HD mode (2.0 upgrade only)

Date

SET DATE
09 / 18 / 05
MM / DD / YY

BACK

66 F S -C Portable DTE Recorder

Time

Version

FS-C Functions

SET TIME

10 : 50 : 40

HH : MM : SS

BACK

VERSION

2.0.0.01010106
NTSC

FS-C

BACK

This screen displays:

• FS-C Firmware version

•SD video of the unit.

•FS-C model

FS-C Portable DTE Recorder 67

FS-C Functions

LCD Light On, Off, Auto

These items enable or disable the LCD's backlight.

• LCDLIGHT ON Group Default

keeps the backlight on permanently.

• LCDLIGHT OFF

Keeps the backlight off permanently.

• LCDLIGHT AUTO

Turns off the backlight after one minute, pressing any
button pad button turns the backlight back on.

Any information screen turns the backlight on.

Alarm On, Off

Default is On.

• When the alarm is enabled, pressing any button on the
FS-C produces audio feedback.

• The FS-C alarm triggers when conditions such as low
battery charge, low disk space, or over heating occur.

• When Alarm is set to
buttons is disabled, however the alarm will still sound
for low power, high heat, or low disk space conditions.

Off, the audio feedback for the

Stop Frame, Gray, No video

These settings determine the FS-C video output when using
the search index keys to view recorded clips..

• STOP FRAME DV only

Displays the first frame of the clip.

•STOP GRAY DV only

Displays a black frame.

• STOP NO VIDEO Group Default

Video output is Off.

68 F S -C Portable DTE Recorder

FS-C Functions

EXT CTL OFF, Pause, Frame, File

These options permit the use of an external device to control
the FS-C through the optional RS-232 cable.

RS-232 Cable Available from Focus Online Store

The RS-232 cable required to connect the FS-C to an external control device
is Focus part number CBLA-0113-01. It and other accessories mentioned in
this manual are available at https://www.focusinfo.com/sales/store.

• EXT CTL OFF

Use this option when connecting an external device
using an RS232C cable.

• This requires the use of a a 3.5mm-to-DB9 adapter cable,
plugged into FS-C

In Local mode, select this item to control the FS-C with
the optional wired remote control unit.

The following options permit control functions to occur from a
simple contact closure.

• EXT CTL PAUSE

Controls Pause and Resume during a record or playback
session.

Control port.

• EXT CTL FRAME DV Mode Only

Captures a single frame of video and records it to a file.
Each time this function is triggered, it sequentially adds
another frame to the same file until stopped.

• EXT CTL FILE

Creates a new file during a record session without
losing frames.

FS-C Portable DTE Recorder 69

FS-C Functions

TIME CODE EXT, REC RUN, FREE RUN, REGEN

The FS-C 2.0 upgrade provides additional TC REC RUN, TC FREE

, and TC REGEN functionality in HD RECORDER mode.

RUN

This functionality is only active when HD FORMAT is set to

QUICKTIME. In M2T mode, all TC modes act as TC EXT.

The following are timecode (

• TC EXT Group Default

Records the incoming source timecode. If the timecode
is not running, the FS-C records the same timecode
number in each recorded frame. Choose
clear any stored number.

• TC REC RUN DV mode only

In this mode, after a power cycle, the FS-C starts its TC record
count using the

TC SET value. Later recordings add to the last

value recorded. A power cycle resets the TC record value to
the

TC SET value.

• TC FREE RUN

DV mode only

This function causes the FS-C to begin counting from
the value stored by

• A number entered through TC SET is not stored and

available to the FS-C until exiting
the FS-C begin counting using that number.

• TC REGEN

DV mode only

When the FS-C powers up in TC REGEN mode, it:

• Reads the timecode of the last track recorded.

• Adds 1 to the number.

• Stores the new timecode as the number that will be
assigned to the first frame of the next recording session.

If the drive is empty, i.e. no existing recordings,
the FS-C uses the

TC SET value.

TC) functions.

TC EXT mode to

TC SET.

TC SET. Only then does

TC SET and UB SET Can Be Set at the Same Time

Both parameters, TC SET and UB SET, may be set and are not mutually
exclusive as in some groups, i.e. LCDLIGHT.

70 F S -C Portable DTE Recorder

FS-C Functions

TC SET

TC SET

00 : 00 : 00 : 00
HH : MM : SS : FF

BACK

The Timecode Set parameter stores a user defined timecode in
the
FS-C’s non-volatile memory. This value is available for use by
the FS-C immediately after exiting TC SET.

• TC FREE RUN

The FS-C uses this value on the next recording after it is

TC SET.

set in

• TC REGEN

This is the starting value when using an empty hard
disk drive for recording.

• TC REC RUN

This is the value used to begin every recording session
after a power cycle.

The TC SET value is only actively applied when the unit is in
DV RECORDER mode.

FS-C Portable DTE Recorder 71

FS-C Functions

UB SET

UB SET

FF : FF : FF : FF

BACK

The User Bit Set function provides the ability to change the
user bits in the timecode recorded in the video files.

• Timecode values are not set when in

Professional applications employ user bits to add metadata to
recordings to assist in post production. For example, multiple
cameras are used during a shoot. Each FS-C has a unique UB
setting that identifies it and the camera it serves. Later, the user
bits are used to determine from which camera station the
footage was recorded.

TC EXT mode.

The UB SET value is only actively applied when the unit is in
DV RECORDER mode.

72 F S -C Portable DTE Recorder

FS-C Functions

TC DROP, NON-DROP NTSC only

These parameters are only available for NTSC and only one
may be enabled at a time. Drop and non-drop enable and
disable the drop-frame function that modifies how the
timecode is calculated during recording. These options are
only applied when the unit is in DV RECORDER mode.

•TC DROP

Enables the drop-frame function:

• Frames 00 and 01 are dropped from each minute of video
recorded.

•

Exception The first minute of each hour is not dropped.

• TC NON-DROP

Disables drop-frame. No frames are dropped during
recording and the timecode reflects the actual time
during recording.

Use with TC FREE RUN or TC REGEN

TC DROP and TC NON-DROP may only be set when using the TC FREE
RUN or TC REGEN settings.

Group Default

Displayed Timecode Indicates TC DROP/NON-DROP Mode

The timecode displayed on the LCD indicates the TC DROP/NON-DROP
mode by using either a semi-colon or a colon as a separator between hours,
minutes, seconds and frames:
DROP HH
NON-DROP HH

FS-C Portable DTE Recorder 73

;MM;SS;FF

:MM:SS:FF

FS-C Functions

HDV TC TYPE FS-C 2.0 upgrade only

HDV TC TYPE

-TTC
GOP TC
REC TC
PTS

BACK

This menu sets the source of the timecode displayed in the TC
DISP mode, while in HD RECORDER mode. This is also the
timecode reported in AV/C control mode.

•

TTC (Title Timecode)
GOP TC (Group of Pictures Timecode)

•

•

REC TC (Recorded Timecode)

•

PTS (Presentation Timestamp)

Each NLE utilizes a different HDV TC TYPE for its workflow.
Use the following table to determine which HDV TC TYPE is
utilized by a particular NLE:

720p 1080i

Avid GOP TC TTC
FCP TTC TTC
Edius TTC GOP TC or PTS

See your NLE users guide for more information.

74 F S -C Portable DTE Recorder

FS-C Functions

LCD CONTRAST

SET CONTRAST

VALUE: 00

BACK

Use this function to adjust the contrast of the LCD display for
easier viewing.

1. Use the Right navigation button to go to the SET CONTRAST

submenu.

2. Use the

the contrast number.

3. Press

Up and Down navigation buttons to increase and decrease

BACK when done.

FS-C Portable DTE Recorder 75

FS-C Functions

Functions Screen

The Functions buttons FA, FB, and FC provide convenient
Home screen shortcuts by acting as toggle switches for specific
system settings. The Home screen below is an example of the
information displayed.

STOP 1-

COUNTER
00 : 00 : 20 : 15
DISK 1 168 min

Reel receiving

clips.

Function Keys

R1
DISP DD

FA FB FC

Function Groups

Function settings are user-assignable and available in the
Functions screen. Changing a setting with a Function button
has the same effect as manually changing the setting.

FUNCTIONS

-FA SYNC
FA AV / C
FA TAPELESS
FA REELS

• There are three groups of functions FA, FB, and FC
displayed via the Functions screen.

• The function groups are independent of each other.

• In each group only one selection is active at a time.

76 F S -C Portable DTE Recorder

FS-C Functions

Functions List

A list of the Function button menu is below. In each group, the
default selection is listed first.

MENU Appears on LCD as…

FA SYNC SYNC

FA AV/C AV/C (Toggles between A V/C and LOCAL control)
FA Tapeless TAPE (Toggles between Tapeless TRIGGER and LOCAL control)

FA REELS REEL Increments current reel number
FA R0-0 R0 Marks Current Clip to Reel 0,
FA R1-1 R1 Marks Current Clip to Reel 1,
FA R2-2 R2 Marks Current Clip to Reel 2,
FA R3-3 R3 Marks Current Clip to Reel 3,
FA R4-4 R4 Marks Current Clip to Reel 4,
FA R5-5 R5 Marks Current Clip to Reel 5,
FA R6-6 R6 Marks Current Clip to Reel 6,
FA R7-7 R7 Marks Current Clip to Reel 7,
FA R8-8 R8 Marks Current Clip to Reel 8,
FA R9-9 R9 Marks Current Clip to Reel 9,
FA LCD ON/OFF LCD1/LCD0 LCD On/Off Toggle
FA LCD AUTO LCDA/LCD0 LCD Auto On/Off Toggle
FA BLANK No Function.

Toggles between SYNCRO and LOCAL record control.

Default

FB DISP DISP (Toggles the different TC display modes) (Default)
FB ALARM ALRM/MUTE Turns the FS-C alarm on or off.
FB FILE FILE (Toggles between normal and display of the file name)
FB REELS REEL Increments current reel number
FB R0-0 R0 Marks Current Clip to Reel 0,
FB R1-1 R1 Marks Current Clip to Reel 1,
FB R2-2 R2 Marks Current Clip to Reel 2,

MENU Appears on LCD as…

FB R3-3 R3 Marks Current Clip to Reel 3,
FB R4-4 R4 Marks Current Clip to Reel 4,
FB R5-5 R5 Marks Current Clip to Reel 5,
FB R6-6 R6 Marks Current Clip to Reel 6,
FB R7-7 R7 Marks Current Clip to Reel 7,
FB R8-8 R8 Marks Current Clip to Reel 8,
FB R9-9 R9 Marks Current Clip to Reel 9,

FS-C Portable DTE Recorder 77

FS-C Functions

FB BLANK No Function.

FC LOCK LOCK/UNLK Locks the buttonpad (Default) - toggles between

FC DV/DD DD Toggles FS-C between DV/HD and HDD Modes
FC REELS REEL Increments current reel numb er
FC R0-0 R0 Marks Current Clip to Reel 0,
FC R1-1 R1 Marks Current Clip to Reel 1,
FC R2-2 R2 Marks Current Clip to Reel 2,
FCR3-3 R3 Marks Current Clip to Reel 3,
FC R4-4 R4 Marks Current Clip to Reel 4,
FC R5-5 R5 Marks Current Clip to Reel 5,
FC R6-6 R6 Marks Current Clip to Reel 6,
FC R7-7 R7 Marks Current Clip to Reel 7,
FC R8-8 R8 Marks Current Clip to Reel 8,
FC R9-9 R9 Marks Current Clip to Reel 9,
FC BLANK No Function.

LOCK and UNLK <Unlock>

78 F S -C Portable DTE Recorder

FS-C Functions

LOCK/UNLK:

UNLOCK KEYS
PRESS SELECT

TO CONFIRM

EXIT

This function is a toggle switch that locks and unlocks the keys
on the FS-C’s front panel.

To prevent accidental unlocking of the front panel, there is an
unlock confirmation screen:

1. Press the

2. Press

SELECT to unlock the front panel keys.

UNLK key.

FS-C Portable DTE Recorder 79

FS-C Functions

Assigning Clips to Reels

STOP 1-

COUNTER
00 : 00 : 20 : 15

Currently

Selected REEL

Function FA

set to FA REELS

The function buttons are a quick way to mark video clips
during recording. The Functions menu offers two types of
markers to use, as an example

• FA REELS

Selecting the FA REELs programs the FS-C to mark the
clips to the currently selected reel. The current reel is
indicated in the line
selection.

DISK 1 168 min
R1

REEL R2 R1

Function FB

set to FB R2-2

FA REELS and FB R2-2.

above the FA function reel

Function FC
set to FC R1-1

• FB R2-2

Setting a function button to this type of marker,
instructs the FS-C to mark the current clip as belonging
to the REEL R2.

Blank

Functions identified as Blank are inactive.

80 F S -C Portable DTE Recorder

Utilities Screen

ORGANIZE REEL
ORGANIZE OMF
ORGANIZE MXF
ORGANIZE PINN

The Utilities available are:

• ORGANIZE REEL

•ORGANIZE OMF

FS-C Functions

UTILITIES

•ORGANIZE MXF

• ORGANIZE PINN

• DELETE CLIP

•FORMAT

• REPAIR DISK

• REPAIR CLIP

•FILE NAME

• UPGRADE

• SYSTEM RESET

• DIAGNOSTIC

•STATUS

2.0 only

DV mode only

FS-C Portable DTE Recorder 81

FS-C Functions

Organize Functions are Mutually Exclusive

Once one organize utility is performed on a set of files, another organize
function can not be applied. For example, if the Organize OMF is used on a
set of files, then Organize Reel can not be applied to them.

Organize Reel

This selection places all files identified as a REEL clip during
recording or playback into the appropriate reel folder. You can
import this folder directly into most DV NLE bins.

Organize OMF

When files are recorded in the AVID OMF file format, this
selection allows you to take all the OMF and AIF audio files at
the end of a recording session and place them into a folder on
the disk drive named OMFI MediaFiles. When the disk is
connected to a computer, this folder is recognized by Avid
Xpress DV's Media Tool enabling direct import of files into the
Avid timeline. Refer to the section, Using Avid OMF Clips

(Required for DV mode only)

on page 41 for more information.

Organize MXF FS-C 2.0 upgrade only

When using MXF OPAtom with some NLEs, such as AVID
Xpress Pro, it is necessary to do an Organize MXF prior to
importing the clips. Organize MXF is available in the Utilities
menu.

The Organize MXF:

• Moves all MXF video files into the
/

contents/video directory.

• Moves all MXF audio files into the
/

contents/audio directory.

• Updates and moves the xml files from the log directory
into the /

• Generates thumbnails of the clips in the
/

contents/icon directory.

82 F S -C Portable DTE Recorder

contents/clip directory.

FS-C Functions

Organize PINN

This selection organizes clips for use with Pinnacle Liquid
series NLE systems. Products such as the Pinnacle file format
were created for use with products such as Pinnacle Liquid
Edition. The Pinnacle file format creates three files
simultaneously during a recording; an AVI video file and two
separate WAV audio files labeled as left and right. An
additional ALE file for each recording session is also created
which contains timecode data. This file must be kept with the
media.

Once clips have been imported into Liquid Edition, an Index
file is created on the disk drive for each clip. Do not delete this
file since it is required to continue work in the particular
project.

FS-C Portable DTE Recorder 83

FS-C Functions

Delete Clip

DELETE CLIP

CLIP 001

YES BACK

Use this item to delete a selected clip.

1. From the Utilities screen, go to the DELETE CLIP screen.

2. Enter the number of the clip to be deleted using the

navigation buttons.

3. Press the

YES function key.

The selected clip is deleted.

4. Press

BACK to return to the Utilities screen.

When a clip is deleted, the FS-C re-organizes and displays the
remaining clips in sequence. For instance, if there are three
clips on the disk: 1-001, 1-002, 1-003. If clip 1-002 is deleted, the
remaining clips are reorganized and clip 1-003 becomes clip 1-

002. However the base file names are not affected.

Up and Down

Use Delete Clip Sparingly

Using the delete clip can cause disk fragmentation that reduces disk drive
performance and can impact both Playback and Record. To defragment the
disk or if more disk space is needed:

• Transfer all content from the FS-C.

• Perform the FORMAT utility, see

84 F S -C Portable DTE Recorder

Format Disk on page 85.