Page 1
Model PX-M401U
MPEG-1/2/4 DIGITAL VIDEO CONVERTER
FOR USB 2.0 INTERFACE
INSTALLATION AND USERS MANUAL
JANUARY 2004
Page 2
Plextor reserves the right to make improvements in the products
described in this manual at any time without prior notice.
Plextor makes no representation or warranties with respect to the
contents hereof and specifically disclaims any implied warranties of
merchantability or fitness for any particular purpose. Further, Plextor
Corp. reserves the right to revise this manual and to make changes in
its content without obligation to notify any person or organization of
such revision or change.
This manual is copyrighted, all rights reserved. It may not be copied,
photocopied, translated, or reduced to any electronic medium or
machine-readable form without Plextor’s prior permission.
Manual copyright ©2003, 2004 Plextor Corp.
Second edition, January 2004.
Licenses and Trademarks
Plextor, and the Plextor logo are registered trademarks and ConvertX is a
trademark of Plextor Corp. InterVideo is a registered trademark, and WinDVD
Creator and WinDVD are trademarks of InterVideo, Inc. All other licenses and
trademarks are property of their respective owners.
Notice
This product and software are designed to help you in
reproducing materials for which you own the copyright or have
obtained permission to copy from the copyright owner. Unless
you own the copyright or have permission to copy from the
copyright owner, you may be vi olating copyrigh t laws and may
be subject to payment of damages and/or other p enalties. If you
are uncertain about your right s, you should contact your legal
advisor.
Page 3
DECLARATION OF CONFORMITY
Model Number:
Trade Name
Responsible Party
Address
Telephone Number
This device complies with Part 15 of the FCC Rules. Operation is subject to the following
two conditions:
(1) This device may not cause harmful i nterference, and (2) this device must accept any
interference received, including interference that may cause undesired operation.
PX-M401U
: PLEXTOR
: PLEXTOR Corp.
: 48383 Fremont Blvd, Suite 120, Fremont, CA 94538-65 09, USA
: 510-440-2000
FEDERAL COMMUNICATIONS COMMISSION STATEMENT
This equipm ent has been tested and foun d to comply with the limits for a Class B digital
device, pursuant to Part 15 of the FCC Rules. These limits are designed to provide
reasonable pr otection against harmful interference in a residential in stallation. 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 radi o
communications. However, there is no guarantee interference will not occur in a particular
installation. If this equipment causes harmful interference to radio or television reception,
which can be d etermined by turning the equipment off and on, the user is encouraged to
try to correct the interference by one or more of the following measures:
•
Reorient or relocate the receiving antenna.
•
Increase the separation between the equipment and receiver.
•
Connect the equipment into an outlet on a circuit different from that to which the
receiver is connected.
•
Consult the dealer or an experienced radio/TV technician for help.
CAUTION
responsible for compliance could void the user's authority to operate the
equipment.
: Any changes or modifications not expressly approved by the party
CANADIAN DEPARTMENT OF COMMUNICATIONS
STATEMENT
This digital apparatus does not exceed the Class B limits for r adio noise emissions fro m
digital appa ratus set out in the Radio Interference Regulations of the Canad ian Department
of Communicati ons.
This class B digital apparatus complies with Canadian ICES-003.
Cet appareil numérique de la classe B est conforme a la norme NMB-003 du Canada.
Page 4
This page intentionally left blank.
Page 5
Table of Contents
1. Getting Started ..............................................................................1
About this Manual...........................................................................1
Meet Your ConvertX.......................................................................1
What You Can Do with the ConvertX.........................................2
Features of the Plextor ConvertX................................................ 3
What You Need to Use the ConvertX.............................................3
What's in the Box ............................................................................4
ConvertX Features and Controls.....................................................5
Front Panel ..................................................................................5
Rear Panel....................................................................................6
A Word about MPEG-4...................................................................7
Precautions ......................................................................................8
2. Installing Your ConvertX.............................................................9
Install the ConvertX Video Converter.............................................9
Installing the ConvertX Device Driver........................................9
Install the ConvertX Drivers......................................................12
Turning the ConvertX On and Off ............................................17
Don’t Forget to Register!...........................................................17
If the Installation Failed.............................................................18
Make Sure the ConvertX Is Recognized ...................................18
Troubleshoot Other Devices......................................................19
Changing to Another Computer ................................................19
Connect the Video Input to the ConvertX.....................................20
3. Using Your ConvertX with WinDVD Creator..........................21
Install the WinDVD Creator Software ..........................................21
Start Capturing Video....................................................................22
Overview of Creating a CD or DVD Disc.....................................23
Capturing.......................................................................................25
Configuring Your Input Device.................................................28
Editing...........................................................................................29
Adjusting a Video Clip..............................................................31
Adding and Adjusting a Transition ...........................................32
Adding and Adjusting a Title....................................................33
Adding Audio and Audio Effects..............................................33
Importing More Media Content.................................................33
ConvertX Digital Video Converter Installation and Users Manual v
Page 6
Table of Contents
Previewing Your Project...........................................................34
Viewing File Properties.............................................................34
Saving Your Project..................................................................34
Creating ......................................................................................... 35
Deleting a Chapter Mark...........................................................36
Adding a Chapter Mark.............................................................37
Editing a Theme Menu.............................................................. 37
Sharing..........................................................................................37
Burning a Disc ..........................................................................39
Burning Options........................................................................40
Compression Options................................................................41
Where to Go from Here.................................................................42
4. Using the WinDVD Player..........................................................43
Install the WinDVD 4 Software....................................................43
Launch the WinDVD Player.........................................................44
Use the WinDVD Controls ...........................................................45
5. Maintenance and Troubleshooting............................................47
Upgrading Firmware.....................................................................47
Troubleshooting Hints...................................................................48
Problems with Installation.........................................................48
Problems with Capture..............................................................48
Appendix A: Specifications ............................................................49
ConvertX Specifications ...............................................................49
WinDVD Creator Specifications...................................................52
Appendix B: Technical Support.....................................................53
How to Contact Plextor Technical Support...................................54
Before You E-mail/Log On/FAX/Call..........................................54
Returns..........................................................................................55
Contacting Plextor’s RMA Department....................................55
Packing Your ConvertX............................................................56
Shipping Your ConvertX to Plextor..........................................56
Appendix C: Warranty...................................................................57
If You’re Outside the U.S. or Canada...........................................58
Index.................................................................................................59
vi
ConvertX Digital Video Converter Installation and Users Manual
Page 7
1. Getting Started
Congratulations! Thank you for purchasing the Plextor® ConvertX™
Digital Video Converter. We appreciate the confidence you have shown
in us. Our goal is to put you—and keep you—on the leading edge of
video capture and compression technology.
About this Manual
Please read this manual carefully and keep it handy for easy reference.
Use the manual for installation, operation and troubleshooting. If your
ConvertX needs service, see your dealer or call Plextor’s Technical
Support Department. (See “Appendix B: Technical Support” for the
different ways you can reach us.)
Meet Your ConvertX
The Plextor ConvertX is a high-quality digital video con verter that takes
analog video from a video camera, camcorder, VCR, or cable source and
provides high-quality compressed MPEG-1/2/4 digital video for display
or archiving onto recordable CD or DVD discs.
Figure 1: The ConvertX changes analog video
to compressed digital video
ConvertX Digital Video Converter Installation and Users Manual 1
Page 8
Section 1. Getting Started
What You Can Do with the ConvertX
Uncompressed full-motion video with sound takes as much as one
megabyte of storage space per second of video. But with your ConvertX,
you can compress that video so that an entire movie fits onto a DVD—
or even a CD!
The ConvertX Digital Video Converter and the bundled InterVideo®
WinDVD Creator™ software let you:
•
Capture: Capture video and sound from analog or digital sources
•
Edit: Modify that vide o to get j ust what yo u wa nt
•
Create: Author compelling video projects, complete with titles,
menus, sounds, and music
•
Share: Actually make movies and burn them onto recordable DVD
and CDs.
In addition, the bundled WinDVD software lets you view your vi deos
and play video files.
The ConvertX lets you quickly and easily convert analog images on
videotapes into digital video on CDs or DVDs. You can also create new
videos for your CD or DVD player or computer, or Webcasts for the
Internet.
Your Conve rtX offers MPEG-1, MPEG-2 and MPEG-4 formats, with
compression that allows users to store up to 100 minutes of digital video
on a CD, or up to 10 hours on a DVD. The bundled WinDVD Creator™
software guides you through each step of capturing and editing video,
adding effects, and burning the finished product. You get everything you
need for quality digital production—just what you’d expect from
Plextor.
2
ConvertX Digital Video Converter Installation and Users Manual
Page 9
Section 1. Getting Started
Features of the Plextor ConvertX
•
Analog-to-digital conversion: Convert analog video from your
camcorder or VCR into digital format for a computer.
•
Archiving video memories: Archive your video on long-lasting CD
or DVD discs.
•
Real-time MPEG-1/2/4 hardware video capture: Select the best type
for your quality and speed requirements.
•
USB connection: Use Hi-Speed U SB 2.0 (480 megabits p er second),
for video c apture at high bit rates. A Hi-Speed USB 2.0 connection
maximizes data throughput to the host computer, enabling the
highest speed video capture using MPEG-2 compression.
•
Hardware encode r: For fast conversion o f analog source vide o into
digital output video.
•
Video and audio synchronization: For rich, true-to-life video.
•
Bundled WinDVD Creator software: For capturing, editing,
authoring, and exporting video.
•
Bundled WinDVD 4 software: Video player software for viewing
video.
•
S-Video and composite video: Supports both popular types of video
input.
•
One year warranty: And unlimited toll-free tech support.
What You Need to Use the ConvertX
What You Need:
•
Computer: Pentium III, 800-MHz CPU or faster
•
Mi n i mum memo r y : At least 256 MB of memory
•
Hard disk size: At least 10 GB of free space recommended
•
Monitor resolution: 1024 x 768, 24 bit color
•
Video graphics card: With 24-bit resolution capability and DirectX
support
•
Sound card: Windows-compatible sound card with 48-kHz
playback. (Using a plug-in PCI sound card is recommended.)
•
CD-ROM drive: For installation.
•
USB interface: USB 2.0 required.
•
Operating system: Windows XP or 2000
ConvertX Digital Video Converter Installation and Users Manual 3
Page 10
Section 1. Getting Started
Also Highly Recommended:
•
CD-RW drive: To burn CDs, Video CDs, or MiniDVDs.
•
DVD+RW or DVD-RW drive: To burn DVDs, CDs or Video CDs .
•
Operating system updates: To enhance your experience, Plextor
highly recommends that you update your computer’s Windows
operating system with the following service packs (or later service
packs) before you install the ConvertX drivers. Suggested service
packs include:
Windows 2000 Service Pack 3
Windows XP Home XP Pro Service Pack 1
What's in the Box
Check the contents of the box. Y ou should have:
•
ConvertX Digital Video Converter
•
AC adapter (100–240 V) and power cord
•
USB 2.0 cable
•
Set of audio/video (A/V) cables
•
S-Video cable
•
ConvertX Digital Video Converter Installation and Users Manual
•
Plextor CD with:
Plextor ConvertX USB device driver
InterVideo® WinDVD Creator™ and WinDVD™ 4 player
software
Adobe® Acrobat® Reader
PDF of Spanish-language users manual
PDF of French-language users manual
4
ConvertX Digital Video Converter Installation and Users Manual
Page 11
Section 1. Getting Started
ConvertX Features and Controls
Before proceeding, become familiar with the controls and features of
your ConvertX.
Front Panel
Figure 2: Front panel of the ConvertX Digital Video Converter
Connector or
Function
Indicator
1 Audio
Audio connector: Connect audio
input here, using the RCA audiovideo cables. The red connector is
the right-hand stereo channel
2 Video
Video connector: Connect
composite video here, using the
RCA A/V cable.
3 S-Video
S-Video connector: If S-Video is
available, connect it here using the
S-Video cable.
4 Record
Recording indicator LED: Amber
when converting video from analog
to digital.
5 Power
Power LED: Blue when the AC
adapter and USB cable are
connected and the computer is
turned on.
ConvertX Digital Video Converter Installation and Users Manual 5
Page 12
Section 1. Getting Started
Rear Panel
Figure 3: Rear panel of the ConvertX Digital Video Converter
Connector Function
1 DC 9V
2 USB 2.0
Power connector: Connect the AC
adapter here. The unit has an
automatic power switch controlled
by the USB cable from the PC.
When the PC power is on, the
ConvertX power is also on.
CAUTION
shipped with your ConvertX.
USB 2.0 connector: Connect your
USB cable here.
CAUTION
shipped with your ConvertX.
: Use only the AC adapter
: Use only the USB cable
6
ConvertX Digital Video Converter Installation and Users Manual
Page 13
Section 1. Getting Started
A Word about MPEG-4
Together, this version of the ConvertX and WinDVD Creator support
two types of MPEG-4 compression:
•
Real-time MPEG-4 (ISO) compression, with file extension .mpg, is
supported by the ConvertX.
•
MPEG-4 (DivX) compression, file extension .avi, is supported by
WinDVD Creator through a software encoder.
There are some differences in how you use these formats. For input, the
ConvertX hardware encoder can capture video and compress it using the
MPEG-4 (ISO) standard, saving valuable space on your hard disk. You
can play this MPEG-4 video and view it on your computer using the
WinDVD 4 player. You cannot edit it or convert it into another format.
For output, WinDVD Creator software includes a DivX software coderdecoder, or “codec.” So you can take uncompressed video, or MPEG-1
or MPEG-2 video, edit this video, and output it in the compressed
MPEG 4 (DivX) format. DivX compressed video is a popular format,
and is playable with Windows Media Player with a DivX decoder (see
http://www.divx.com/
) and with other decoders available on the Internet.
ConvertX Digital Video Converter Installation and Users Manual 7
Page 14
Section 1. Getting Started
Precautions
Like the rest of your computer system, your ConvertX requires
reasonable care in its installation and use.
•
Keep the area around your ConvertX clean from dust, smoke, and
other contaminants. The unit is not dustproof.
•
Do not allow moisture or liquids, including water or cleaning fluids,
to touch the ConvertX. The unit is not waterproof. Furthermore,
thinner, benzene, or alcohol-based solvents can mar the surface of
your ConvertX.
•
Do not drop or jolt the ConvertX.
•
Do not attempt to open the ConvertX and service it yourself. Entrust
service to Plextor-authorized service personnel only.
8
ConvertX Digital Video Converter Installation and Users Manual
Page 15
2. Installing Your ConvertX
Here’s how to install your ConvertX.
Install the ConvertX Video Converter
Before installation, Plextor highly recommends that you get the latest
updates available for your computer’s operating system.
If you have a computer with Windows 2000 or Windows XP, use the
following procedure to connect your ConvertX USB Digital Video
Converter.
Installing the ConvertX Device Driver
To install the ConvertX Digital Video Converter Driver:
1. Turn ON your computer system and make sure that all applications
are turned off.
Figure 4: Turn on the computer and insert the ConvertX software disc
ConvertX Digital Video Converter Installation and Users Manual 9
Page 16
Section 2. Installing Your ConvertX
2. Insert the ConvertX software disc into your CD or DVD drive. You
see the Plextor Application Installer screen. (If you don’t see the
installer screen right away, use Windows Explorer to navigate to the
CD or DVD drive, and double-click the Plextor.exe file.)
Figure 5: Plextor Application Installer screen
3. Select the ConvertX Device Driver button. You see the InstallShield
Wizard for the Plextor M401U Codec.
Figure 6: InstallShiel d Wizard for Plextor USB Codec
10
ConvertX Digital Video Converter Installation and Users Manual
Page 17
Section 2. Installing Your ConvertX
4. In the InstallShield Wizard click Next. You see a window asking for
the destination location.
CAUTION
: Accept the default; do not change the destination location.
Figure 7: Choose the destination location for the USB Codec
5. To choose the default location, click Next. The InstallShield installs
the driver. Then you see a window showing that the InstallShield
Wizard for the Plextor Codec is complete.
6. Click Finish.
Figure 8: Plextor USB Codec has been installed
ConvertX Digital Video Converter Installation and Users Manual 11
Page 18
Section 2. Installing Your ConvertX
7. In the Plextor Application Installer screen you can click Exit. B ut
leave the Plextor CD in your computer’s drive for the next steps.
Install the ConvertX Drivers
IMPORTANT NOTE
installing three driver files into your computer. You’ll see the “Found New
Hardware” window three times, and you may feel like you’re seeing the
same dialog over and over again. This is normal. You don’t need to shut
down or reboot your computer until all drivers have been installed.
1. Connect the ConvertX to your computer as shown in Figure 9. Begin
by making sure your computer is on.
: In the next steps of this procedure, you will be
Figure 9: 1) Make sure the computer is on, 2) make sure the Plextor
disc is inserted, 3) plug in the AC adapter, and then 4) connect the
2. Make sure the Plextor disc is in the computer’s drive.
3. Connect the AC adapter to an electrical outlet and to your ConvertX.
12
ConvertX Digital Video Converter Installation and Users Manual
ConvertX
Page 19
Section 2. Installing Your ConvertX
4. Connect the USB cable from your ConvertX to the computer. You
see a message indicating that Windows is installing a USB device,
followed by a window indicating that Windows has Found New
Hardware. The window asks if you want to install the software
automatically or install from a specific location.
Figure 10: Found New H ardware Wizard for the Plexto r USB codec
5. Make sure Install the software automatically is selected and click
Next. You may see a window that states the software has not passed
Windows Logo testing. (This is OK.)
Figure 11: Ignore this message and select Continue Anyway
ConvertX Digital Video Converter Installation and Users Manual 13
Page 20
Section 2. Installing Your ConvertX
6. Click Continue Anyway. After a few moments you se e a message
indicating the wizard has finished installing the Plextor ConvertX
USB driver.
Figure 12: The first driver has been installed
7. In the Found New Hardware Wiz ard window, click Finish. Now you
see a message indicating that Windows is installing another USB
device, followed by another screen indicating that Windows has
Found New Hardware. The window asks if you want to install the
software automatically or install from a specific location.
Figure 13: The Found New Hardware Wizard for the second driver
14
ConvertX Digital Video Converter Installation and Users Manual
Page 21
Section 2. Installing Your ConvertX
8. Make sure Install the software automatically is selected and click
Next. You may see a window that states the software has not passed
Windows Logo testing. (This is OK.)
Figure 14: Ignore this message and select Continue Anyway
9. Click Continue Anyway. After a few moments you se e a message
indicating the wizard has finished installing the Plextor ConvertX
USB driver.
Figure 15: The second driver has been installed
ConvertX Digital Video Converter Installation and Users Manual 15
Page 22
Section 2. Installing Your ConvertX
10. In the Found New Hardware Wizard windo w, click Finish. Now you
see another Found New Hardware Wizard, this one for the Plextor
ConvertX. The window asks if you want to install the softwar e
automatically or install from a specific location.
Figure 16: The Found Ne w Hardware Wizard for the third driver
11. Make sure Install the software automatically is selected and click
Next. You may see a window that states the software has not passed
Windows Logo testing. (This is OK.)
Figure 17: Ignore this message and select Continue Anyway
16
ConvertX Digital Video Converter Installation and Users Manual
Page 23
Section 2. Installing Your ConvertX
12. Click Continue Anyway. You see a message indicating the Plextor
USB 2.0 hub driver is installed.
Figure 18: The final driver has been installed
13. Click Finish. Your ConvertX is installed. You may get a message
that indicates you need to restart your computer.
14. If you are asked to restart your computer, click Yes. After your
computer restarts, your ConvertX is ready.
When all drivers are installed, your ConvertX is automatically
recognized by the computer.
Turning the ConvertX On and Off
Note that there’s no power switch on the ConvertX. When the computer
power is on, the ConvertX is on. When the computer power is off, the
ConvertX is off.
Don’t Forget to Register!
Don’t forget to register your ConvertX. In the Plextor Application
Installer, select Register Your ConvertX and follow the prompts.
Registration me a ns you ’ll stay abreast of valuable information about
new features, updated drivers, and more.
ConvertX Digital Video Converter Installation and Users Manual 17
Page 24
Section 2. Installing Your ConvertX
If the Installation Failed
If the ConvertX installation failed, check for these causes:
•
Make sure you are using Windows 2000 or Windows XP. The
ConvertX won’t work with Windows 95, 98, 98SE, or Windows Me.
You need to upgrade your computer’s operating system to Windows
2000 or Windows XP.)
•
Locate the drivers manually. If you have to locate the drivers
manually during the installation, look on the Plextor CD, in
Drivers\USB. The driver files have the extension *.inf.
•
Make sure the ConvertX is recognized. See “Make Sure the
ConvertX Is Recognized” below.
•
Troubleshoot other devices. (See “Troubleshoot Other Devices” on
page 19.
Make Sure the ConvertX Is Recognized
After installation, you may want to make sure the ConvertX is
recognized by your computer. To check whether it is recognized:
To see if the ConvertX is recognized in Windows:
1. In Windows XP or 2000, go to Start | Settings | Control Panel.
2. In Control Panel, double-click the System icon. You see the System
Propertie s window.
3. In System Properties, click the Hardware tab, then click on the
Device Manager button. You see the Device Manager .
4. Locate the icon for Sound, video and game controllers, and click the
+ sign next to it to expand the entry list.
5. Look for an entry for Plextor ConvertX PX-M401U and one for
Plextor ConvertX USB.
18
ConvertX Digital Video Converter Installation and Users Manual
Page 25
Section 2. Installing Your ConvertX
6. If Sound, video and game controllers are listed and do not have a
yellow diamond with an exclamation point, but you do not see
Plextor ConvertX icons listed among the devices, contact our
Technical Support group at 1-800-886-3935, or email us at
support@Plextor.com
for help troubleshooting.
7. If the ConvertX does not operate even though 1) the sound, audio
and game controllers are listed and do not have a yellow diamond
with an exclamation point, and 2) the Plextor ConvertX devices are
listed, select the Plextor ConvertX devices and then select the
Remove button. Then restart your computer. The computer will
automatically perform another hardware scan and this time it should
install the digital video converter correctly.
Troubleshoot Other Devices
•
In the Device Manager, if any o f your entries for Othe r devices have
a yellow diamond with an exclamation point (!), troubleshoot your
Plextor ConvertX devices for compatibility problems or other
conflicts. It may just be a matter of obtaining the latest USB driver
or Windows 2000 or Windows XP Service Pack from Microsoft’s
Windows Update.
•
To update the driver, right-click on the question mark and select
Properties, then select the Driver tab and click Update driver. Look
for the device driver on the Plextor CD.
Changing to Another Computer
Your ConvertX does not have firmware. It downloads its operating
program from your computer each time you turn the computer on or
reconnect the ConvertX.
If you want to use your ConvertX on another computer , use the
ConvertX installation CD and install the ConvertX driver on that
computer.
ConvertX Digital Video Converter Installation and Users Manual 19
Page 26
Section 2. Installing Your ConvertX
Connect the Video Input to the ConvertX
Connect the analog video source to the ConvertX input connectors.
Figure 19 shows some of the sources you can use.
Figure 19: Connecting the video and audio sources to the ConvertX
•
To connect composite video: Use the RCA A/V cables to connect
the Line Out or Video/Audio Out connectors from the source to the
front-panel Audio and Video connectors of the ConvertX.
•
To connect S-Video: Use the S-Video cable to connect from the SVideo connector at the source to the front-panel S-Video connector
on the ConvertX.
20
ConvertX Digital Video Converter Installation and Users Manual
Page 27
3. Using Your ConvertX with WinDVD
Creator
WinDVD Creator software lets you pull in video from your camcorder
or another analog source and feed it to the Plextor ConvertX. WinDVD
Creator also lets you capture, edit, create and share video and other
content.
Install the WinDVD Creator Software
To install the WinDVD Creator video capture and authoring
software:
1. Turn ON your computer system.
2. Make sure that all applications are turned off.
3. Insert the ConvertX software disc into your CD or DVD drive. You
see the Plextor Application Installer screen. (If you don’t see the
installer screen right away, use Windows Explorer to navigate to the
CD or DVD drive, and double-click the Plextor.exe file.)
4. Select the WinDVD Creator button. You see the WinDVD Creator
Setup screen.
5. Click Next. You see the License Agreement.
6. Read the License Agreement, then click Yes. Click Yes again. Yo u
see the User Information window.
7. Enter your Name, your Company, and the Serial Number for the
product. (The serial number is located on the software CD envelope.)
You see the Destination path screen.
8. Accept the default destination path proposed by the setup program
and click Next. You see the Select Program Folder screen.
ConvertX Digital Video Converter Installation and Users Manual 21
Page 28
Section 3. Using Your ConvertX with WinDVD Creator
9. Accept the default program folder as the location where the setup
program will add WinDVD Creator’s icons, or enter the name of
another folder. Then click Next. The setup program installs
WinDVD Creator, a process that can take a few minutes. Then you
may see a Third Party Application Setup window, asking if you want
to install Microsoft HTML Help.
10. Click Next to install Microsoft HTML Help. When the installation is
completed, you see the Setup Complete screen, asking if you want to
restart your computer now.
11. Follow the on-screen prompts to restart. When the installation is
complete, you see program icons in the Windows Start menu.
Start Capturing Video
With all software loaded and cable connections made, you can begin
capturing video.
To start capturing video:
1. Turn the video source on.
2. Ensure the computer is on.
3. On the computer, start the WinDVD software: Go to Start | Programs
| InterVideo WinDVD Creator.
The first time you start WinDVD Creator, you see a Start-Up Wizard
that helps you choose the appropriate settings for your DVD project.
You can make changes now or click the right arrow to accept the
defaults, then make necessary changes later.
When you start WinDVD Creator from now on, you see the main
WinDVD Creator window.
22
ConvertX Digital Video Converter Installation and Users Manual
Page 29
Section 3. Using Your ConvertX with WinDVD Creator
Overview of Creating a CD or DVD Disc
When you open WinDVD Creator, you see the main window, with areas
for Preview, Media Library, and Story Board.
Figure 20: WinDVD Creator’s main window
No. Window Area Function
1 Task buttons
Capture, Edit, Author, and Make Movie.
These buttons lead you into the four
steps you’ll perform to create a CD or
DVD.
2 Help
Click here to get help.
ConvertX Digital Video Converter Installation and Users Manual 23
Page 30
Section 3. Using Your ConvertX with WinDVD Creator
Step 1, Capture: The first step is the capture step. In this step you take
videos from your digital camcorder or VCR, or pictures from your Web
camera, and either feed them directly to the ConvertX or save them onto
your computer for later use. If you do not need to capture any media
content from your devices and already have the files on your computer,
you can import the files from your hard drive in either Capture or Edit
modes, by using the Import button in the Media Library.
Step 2, Edit: The second step is the edit step. In editing, you arrange
your media content in the exact order you want the clips to be viewed.
You can trim your media files to the desired length, add other images
you want to the CD or DVD, and make video transitions to the next clip.
You can incorporate audio from CDs, a microphone, or another source.
You can also add titles to your video files, and you can embellish those
titles with title effects.
Step 3, Create: The third step is to “author” the CD or DVD by adding
menus and other interactive features with the Author button. Authoring
adds the menus that allow viewers to interact with the CD or DVD on
their computer or DVD player.
Step 4, Share: Finally, the fourth step is to share your pr oject by using
the Make Movie button to burn it onto CD or DVD. You can burn using
any one of several formats. At this time, you also indicate what type of
TV system you use, and the name of your VCD or DVD. If you cannot
burn your CD or DVD right away, you have the choice to either save the
project or write the contents into a file for burning later.
NOTE
: The rest of this chapter is a tutorial that will get you started
capturing, editing, creating, and sharing video and other content. It’s not
a complete reference. For more details on all the exciting features of
WinDVD Creator, look in that application’s Help menu.
24
ConvertX Digital Video Converter Installation and Users Manual
Page 31
Section 3. Using Your ConvertX with WinDVD Creator
Capturing
To display the Capture windo w:
1. Ensure that the input device (such as a camera, camcorder, video
cassette recorder, etc.) is connected to your computer.
2. In the WinDVD main window, click on the Capture button
You see the Capture window.
.
Figure 21: Capture window
ConvertX Digital Video Converter Installation and Users Manual 25
Page 32
Section 3. Using Your ConvertX with WinDVD Creator
No. Window Area Function
1 Capture
button
Displays the Capture window.
2 Preview area
Allows you to preview the media
content that you capture from outside
devices or that you import from files.
3 Input device
list
Shows a list of input devices that
connect to your computer. Those
devices allow you to capture video from
the Plextor ConvertX, as well as from a
television source, camera, or a digital
camcorder. For each device, a control
panel allows you to control the device.
4 Disk
information
Displays the folder in which your media
content is being saved. You can browse
and change the folder where you are
saving your files. This section also
shows the amount of free space and
used space on your hard drive, as well
as the capture speed and the amount of
time you have left to capture.
5 Media library
This is where all your video, image, and
audio clips are categorized. Each of the
files you have captured is categorized
into its own section of this library. For
instance, if you capture a screenshot, it
is sent to the Image Library. If you
capture a video clip, it is sent to the
Video Library.
To use the Capture window to capture media content:
1. From the device list on the top-right section of the Capture window,
select the input device you are using. You see a control panel that
allows you to control the device. (The control panel will be different
depending upon which device you are using.)
26
ConvertX Digital Video Converter Installation and Users Manual
Page 33
Section 3. Using Your ConvertX with WinDVD Creator
Figure 22: Typical control panel for the Plextor ConvertX
No. Window Area Function
1 Record
button
Starts and stops recording.
2 Configuration
button
Displays the configuration window for
this device.
2. To record video, use the device controls to begin playing video or
recording on the input device, then press the Record button
on
this device’s on-screen control panel.
3. When you have obtained the desired video, stop the recording by
pressing the Record button
again. Recording stops, and you see
your video file in the Video Library located in the bottom-right
section of the Capture window.
ConvertX Digital Video Converter Installation and Users Manual 27
Page 34
Section 3. Using Your ConvertX with WinDVD Creator
Configuring Your Input Device
In the control panel for many input devices, a configuration button
lets you cha nge configuration settings. When you click the configuration
button
optimal settings. (Some settings will be grayed out and inaccessible
depending o n which device you use.)
, you see tabs for you to choose in order to change to the
Figure 23: Typical configuration window
Here’s one example:
•
Record: You can change the format and the profile for recording
from a TV or VCR.
•
TV Control: Provides televisi on control.
•
Video Qualities: You can change brightnes s, contrast, hue, et c.
To return to the default settings, select the Default button; this resets all
settings within the current tab.
28
ConvertX Digital Video Converter Installation and Users Manual
Page 35
Section 3. Using Your ConvertX with WinDVD Creator
Editing
In this section of WinDVD Creator you can trim your project, and add
music, titles, and transitions to make your proj ect lo ok fantastic.
To display the Edit window:
•
In the WinDVD main window, click on the Edit button
see the Edit window.
. You
Figure 24: WinDVD Creator’s Edit windo w
ConvertX Digital Video Converter Installation and Users Manual 29
Page 36
Section 3. Using Your ConvertX with WinDVD Creator
No. Window Area Function
1 Edit
button
Displays the Edit window.
2 Preview window
View and listen to your media
content. If your project is already
arranged, you can preview it by
pressing the Play button. If you have
already placed transitions into your
storyboard, the preview window will
also play them.
3 Media library
Stores all your files for easy access
when you are adding them to your
project.
4 Library buttons
Use to select a library: Video Library,
Image Library, Audio Library,
Transition Effects, and Title Effects.
5 Storyboard or
timeline
Can either be a storyboard or a
timeline. This window shows how
your project will run. You drag and
drop items from the libraries to here.
6 Storyboard/Timeline
button
Switches between storyboard view
and timeline view. In general, the
storyboard view is for intermediate
users, and the timeline view is for
more advanced users.
To use the Edit window to edit your project:
1. From the Media Library at the top-right section of the Edit window,
select one of the libraries: video, image, audio, transition effects, or
title. You see that library.
2. From the library, select the file you want to use, and drag and drop
the file onto the storyboard.
You can drag and drop a file anywhere on the storyboard.
To move one clip in front of another, just drag and drop the new
clip in front of the current clip.
To rearrange the media clips, drag and drop clips until you are
satisfied with the order.
30
ConvertX Digital Video Converter Installation and Users Manual
Page 37
Section 3. Using Your ConvertX with WinDVD Creator
Adjusting a Video Clip
To trim the length of a video clip:
1. In the timeline or storyboard at the bottom of the Edit window, select
a video, then right-click. You see a pull-down menu with a selection
for Video Manager.
Figure 25: Use sliders in Video Manager to trim video clips
No. Window Area Function
1 Sliders
Use to trim video to the desired
length.
2
Video cut tool
Cuts video based on slider position.
2. Select Video Manager. You see the video cut tool and two sliders,
one for the beginning position of the video and the other for the
ending position.
3. Set the sliders, then click the video cut tool to trim the video clip to
the desired length.
ConvertX Digital Video Converter Installation and Users Manual 31
Page 38
Section 3. Using Your ConvertX with WinDVD Creator
To divide a video clip into separate segments:
1. In the Edit window’s video library, right-click on the desired clip.
You see the Show video scenes button in the upper right corner of
the video library, and you see a menu that gives you the Show Video
Scenes choice.
2. Select Show Video Scenes from the menu, or click the Show video
scenes button. You see a window that lets you Auto Detect scene
changes or make scene changes By Time.
3. Ensure Auto Detect is selected, then click the right Go arrow. You
see the clip automatically divided into several scenes according to
changes in the video. This does not create new video clips, but only
breaks the video into different segments.
4. To eliminate the divisions and merge the video sections into one
clip, click the Reset button.
Adding and Adjusting a Transition
To add a transition:
1. Browse through the Transition Effects library.
2. If desired, preview the transition by clicking on the Transition icon.
3. Click on a the desired transition, then drag and dr op the transition to
the desired location on the storyboard. You place transitions in
between clips.
4. To adjust the length of the transition, right-click on the transition on
the storyboard. You see a pulldown menu with a selection for Video
Manager.
5. Select Video Manager. You see a slider for the transition.
6. Adjust the slider for the amount of time you want the tra nsi tion to
take.
32
ConvertX Digital Video Converter Installation and Users Manual
Page 39
Section 3. Using Your ConvertX with WinDVD Creator
Adding and Adjusting a Title
To add and adjust a title:
1. Browse through the Title Library.
2. Drag and drop the title to the desired location on the storybo a r d. You
can place titles either on another location, or in an empty cell on the
storyboard. You can see the title in the preview window so you can
edit it.
3. To edit a title, right-click on the title effect, then edit the title text.
4. To format the title, select the text and change the color, alignment,
and the font size as desired. Choose F to change the font, or C to
change the color. Select the clock button
the title to appear.
to change the time for
Adding Audio and Audio Effects
To add an audio effect:
1. Browse through the Audio Library.
2. Drag and drop an audio file onto an existing cell to add background
music.
You can also add audio recorded from a CD, or even record audio from
a microphone.
Importing More Media Content
To import more media content:
1. In the Edit window, select the Import button. You see an import
window showing the files on your hard drive.
2. Select the desired files for importing. The files are automatically
categorized as they are imported.
ConvertX Digital Video Converter Installation and Users Manual 33
Page 40
Section 3. Using Your ConvertX with WinDVD Creator
Imported video files go to the Video Library. Pictures of any type are
sent to the Image Library. And any music or audio files are sent to the
Audio Library. You can add an unlimited number of files to your project
as long as there is enough room to store your project on the CD or DVD
you are creating.
Previewing Your Project
To preview your entire CD or DVD project:
•
In the Edit window’s preview area, select the Play button
see project played (to the next title), so you can see if the video is
playing properly and if the transitions and other effects are in the
correct spots.
. You
Viewing File Properties
To view the file properties of the media content in your media
library:
1. In the Edit window, select the Media Library of your choice.
2. In the desired library, right-click on the file you choose. You see a
pulldown menu.
3. From the pulldown menu, select Properties. You see the pro perties
of the file you’re interested in.
Saving Your Project
To save your project before continuing:
•
Select the Project menu at the top of the window, then choose Save
Project As, and select the path and filename.
You can save your project with MPEG-2 or MPEG-1 compression. If
you save the file to MPEG-2 or MPEG-1, no format c hanges are
required. You can also save your project with MPEG-4 compression,
using the DivX codec contained in WinDVD Creator.
34
ConvertX Digital Video Converter Installation and Users Manual
Page 41
Section 3. Using Your ConvertX with WinDVD Creator
Creating
Creating means using the Author window to add an interactive menu for
your CD or DVD project. You can add a play button and a chapter menu
for easy scrolling through your CD or DVD. You can also add a
background image that can give a theme to your DVD.
To display the Author window:
•
In the WinDVD Creator main window, click on the Author
button
. You see the Author window.
Figure 26: WinDVD Creator’s Author window
ConvertX Digital Video Converter Installation and Users Manual 35
Page 42
Section 3. Using Your ConvertX with WinDVD Creator
No. Window Area Function
1 Author button
2 Preview
Window
3 Theme Library
4 Chapter Board
Displays the Author window.
The top-left section of the Author
window is the preview window. You can
play the entire project.
The top-right section is the Theme
Library. Here you can select a theme for
your project. This section automatically
adds a play button and a chapter menu
to your project. When you double-click
on a thumbnail of a theme, you see a
preview in the preview window.
The bottom of the Author window is the
Chapter Board. WinDVD Creator
automatically creates a chapter for each
cell. So the number of clips will
determine the number of chapters
unless you remove the chapter marks.
Deleting a Chapter Mark
To delete a chapter mark:
1. In the Chapter Board at the bottom of the Author window, right-click
on the chapter you wish to remove. You see the Delete Chapter Mark
text box.
2. Click to delete the chapter mark.
When you remove a chapter mark from the chapter list, subsequent
chapters are automatically reordered. If you want only a certain number
of chapters in your project, just delete the certain chapters that you don’t
want.
NOTE
: Only the chapter mark is deleted. The file remains.
Whether or not there are chapter marks between clips, all clips remain
where they are unless you choose to move or delete them.
36
ConvertX Digital Video Converter Installation and Users Manual
Page 43
Section 3. Using Your ConvertX with WinDVD Creator
Adding a Chapter Mark
To add a chapter mark to a video clip that you removed:
•
Right-click on the clip and select Add Chapter Mark.
This lets you recover if you accidentally delete a chapter mark that you
wanted to keep.
Editing a Theme Menu
To edit a theme menu in your project:
1. In the Theme Library at the upper right of the Author window,
browse through the library and find the proper theme that will go
with your project.
2. Double-click on the theme. You see the Theme Editor window.
3. In the Theme Editor, single-click on the title and drag the title to
move it to a new location.
4. Double-click the title to edit the title text. You can rewrite the text b y
typing over it, or change the font, the size, the alignment, the color,
and the position of the text.
Sharing
This is the final step in making your DVD. This is where you select the
Make Movie button and choose t he format you want to use for your
DVD project. You can choose what type of television standard to use,
and you can supply a name for your DVD.
To display the Make Movie window:
•
In the WinDVD Creator main window, click on the Make Movie
button
. You see the Make Movie window.
ConvertX Digital Video Converter Installation and Users Manual 37
Page 44
Section 3. Using Your ConvertX with WinDVD Creator
Figure 27: WinDVD Creator’s Make Movie window
No. Window Area Function
1 Make Movie
Displays the Make Movie window.
button
2 Preview
Window
The top-left section of the Make Movie
window is the preview window. Here
you can preview your project, ensuring
that it is properly displaying and playing.
3 Burning Wizard
The top-right section is the Burning
Wizard, which provides a step-by-step
procedure for burning your project onto
CD or DVD.
4 Help
The bottom of the window gives
detailed help about the burning process.
38
ConvertX Digital Video Converter Installation and Users Manual
Page 45
Section 3. Using Your ConvertX with WinDVD Creator
Burning a Disc
To burn your project onto a CD or DVD disc:
1. Insert a blank CD or DVD disc in your CD or DVD drive.
2. In the Make Movie window’s Burning Wizard, choose a Format.
The formats are:
VCD: Video Compact Disc. Uses MPEG for compression and
can display full motion video and sound. Holds up to a
maximum of 74 minutes or 80 minutes of video content on a
650- and 700-MB CD, respectively. Similar to a VHS recording,
low quality in both sound and video, but very common.
DVD on CD: High quali ty video and source on a CD holding up
to 650-700 MB.
DVD (1 hour) and DVD (2 hour): High quality sound and
video content, with a specified length of video content.
3. In the Burning Wizard Format window, choose a TV System. The
TV systems are:
NTSC: Most commonly used in North America and Japan.
4. In the Volume Name of Disc text field, enter the name for your disc.
5. When you have filled out the Burning Wizard/Format wind ow, click
PAL: Used in European and Asian countries.
the Next button. You see the Select Media window.
Figure 28: Selecting the media for burning
ConvertX Digital Video Converter Installation and Users Manual 39
Page 46
Section 3. Using Your ConvertX with WinDVD Creator
6. In the Select Media window, choose how you want to burn your
disc:
Burn to Disc: Burns the CD or DVD now. You see the Device
Setting windo w.
Write content to hard disk for later burning: Saves the
project in a file on your hard disk, allowing you to burn the
project at a later time.
Load content from hard disk to burn: Allows you to load a
file that you have previously saved on your hard disk and burn it
now.
Burning Options
•
If you chose Burn to Disc, you see the Device Setting window
immediately. You can choose the device (such as the Plextor
PX-504A DVD writer) you want to burn to, the speed of the burning,
and the number of copies. Then press the Start button to begin
recording.
•
If you chose Write content to hard disk for later burning, choose a
Figure 29: Device Setting window
folder to save your project, then press the Next button. The file is
automatically created on your hard disk.
•
To burn a previously saved file, select Load content from hard disk
to burn. Then browse and select the saved project, and press the Next
button. You will see the Device Setting window immediately.
Choose the device you want to burn to, the speed of the burning, and
the number of copies. Then press the Start button to begin recording.
40
ConvertX Digital Video Converter Installation and Users Manual
Page 47
Section 3. Using Your ConvertX with WinDVD Creator
Compression Options
The ConvertX supports real-time MPEG-4 (ISO) compression in
hardware for incoming video. Although information compressed with
MPEG-4 compression is not editable, and you cannot convert it into
another format, you can view these files. Just capture files with MPEG-4
compression, then view the files using the WinDVD 4 player that’s part
of your ConvertX software bundle.
How much can you fit on a DVD or CD? Storage rates vary based on the
capacity of the disc, frame size and selected resolution. Use the
following table to help you decide what compression and media to use.
Compression Bit
Encoder/Decoder
(Codec)
MPEG-1 (VCD)
compression
MPEG-2
(DVD-Video)
compression
MPEG-4
compression
Rate
Video
(kbps)
1,500
6,000-
2,000
4,000-800 224-96 22-104
Audio
(kbps)
224 63 min N/A
224 12-27 min 81-173
NOTE
: Recorded times for video and audio may change based on the
selected bit rate and disc capacity.
Video in Minutes Video
CD-R or
CD-RW
min
Recordable DVD
min
146-665
min
ConvertX Digital Video Converter Installation and Users Manual 41
Page 48
Section 3. Using Your ConvertX with WinDVD Creator
Where to Go from Here
This chapter has shown some simple procedures for capturi ng, editing,
creating and sharing your audiovisual creations. For more in-depth
information, consult WinDVD Creator’s Help files. And don’t be afraid
to experiment—you’ll learn more by doing than any manual or help file
could possibly teach you.
42
ConvertX Digital Video Converter Installation and Users Manual
Page 49
4. Using the WinDVD Player
InterVideo's WinDVD is a simple-to-use DVD player that combines all
the features you would expect to find in a standard consumer DVD
player. It also has full VCD 2.0 and MPEG-4 support, full precision
video decode, and a choice of user interfaces and video display options.
Used with your ConvertX, the WinDVD player lets you play all kinds of
media: commercial CDs and DVDs, MPEG-4 video CDs, and especially
the CDs and DVDs created with WinDVD Creator. The WinDVD
player automatically determines the type of disc in your DVD drive and
uses the correct playback method.
Install the WinDVD 4 Software
To install the WinDVD player software:
1. Turn ON your computer system.
2. Make sure that all applications are turned off.
3. Insert the ConvertX software disc into your CD or DVD drive. You
see the Plextor Application Installer screen.
4. Select the WinDVD button. You see the WinDVD Setup screen.
5. Click Next. You see the License Agreement.
6. Read the License Agreement, then click Yes. You see the User
Informatio n wi nd ow.
7. Enter your Name, your Company, and the Serial Number for the
product. (The serial number is located on the software CD envelope.)
You see the Destination path screen.
8. Accept the default destination path proposed by the setup program
and click Next. You see the Select Program Folder screen.
ConvertX Digital Video Converter Installation and Users Manual 43
Page 50
Section 4. Using the WinDVD Player
9. Accept the default program folder as the location where the setup
program will add WinDVD player’s icons, or enter the name of
another folder. Then click Next. The setup program installs
WinDVD player, a process that can take a few minutes. When the
installation is completed, you see the a File Types Association Setup
Complete screen, asking if you want to associate file with WinDVD
Player.
10. If you want WinDVD Player to automatically play DVD Video and
Movie files, leave the check marks in the boxes and click Next. Then
you may see a Third Party Applica tion Setup window, asking if you
want to install Microsoft HTML Help.
11. Click Next to install Microsoft HTML Help. When the installation is
completed, you see the Setup Complete screen.
12. Click Finish. The installation is complete, and you can launch the
WinDVD player.
Launch the WinDVD Player
To launch the WinDVD player:
•
Click the InterVideo WinDVD 4 icon on your desktop.
-orSelect Start | Programs | InterVideo WinDVD
| InterVideo WinDVD 4.
-orInsert a CD or DVD to launch the player automatically.
44
ConvertX Digital Video Converter Installation and Users Manual
Page 51
4. Using the WinDVD Player
Use the WinDVD Controls
Once WinDVD is launched and active, use the controls shown on the
WinDVD panel to navigate. Note that not all options are available with
all CD and DVD titles; if a WinDVD feature is not available with a
particular title, it is grayed out and inaccessible.
Figure 30: WinDVD plays CDs, DVDs, and media files
No. Window Area Function
1 Variable Speed
Fast Forward
Lets you control speed of disc and file
playback.
and Rewind
2 Play (Enter)
3 Stop
4 Playlist
Plays current selection.
Stops play.
Opens the Playlist window, letting you
select a specific order and group of files.
5 Help
Shows all controls and step-by-step
operation.
6 Subpanel
7 DVD Controls
Shows choice of several subpanels.
Controls disc playback, just like on a
commercial DVD or CD player.
7 Menu
9 Eject
Shows the disc menu.
Ejects the disc.
The illustration shows key WinDVD controls. For an explanation of all
controls, select the WinDVD help files.
ConvertX Digital Video Converter Installation and Users Manual 45
Page 52
Section 4. Using the WinDVD Player
This page intentionally left blank.
46
ConvertX Digital Video Converter Installation and Users Manual
Page 53
5. Maintenance and Troubleshooting
This chapter explains maintenance and troubleshooting procedures for
your ConvertX.
With proper maintenance, you can prevent problems. If trouble arises,
you can often solve many simple problems on your o wn, rather than
wait for assistance from a Plextor representative.
Upgrading Firmware
Plextor creates firmware revisions to meet the peculiar needs of large
computer manufacturers. It is rare that these will impact the performance
or operation of your ConvertX. However, we advise that o ur customers
always update their computers with the latest firmware to support the
digital video converter. Before troubleshooting a possible problem with
your digital video converter, please make sure to visit our web site at
www.plextor.com
To obtain new firmware for your ConvertX:
1. Go to the Plextor web site at www.plextor.com
2. Look for firmware upgrades in the Support area, on the Downloads
page. There is a description of the latest firmware revision and its
intended use.
3. Download the firmware to the computer that you are using with the
ConvertX.
To upgrade firmware:
1. First, remove the Plextor M401U Codec from Windows by using
Add /Remove Program. Go to Start | Setting | Contro l Panel |
Add/Remove Program, select the Plextor M401U Codec, and
remove it.
2. Locate the executable file (it ends in “.exe”) that you downloaded
from Plext or’s web site.
to check if you have the latest firmware.
.
ConvertX Digital Video Converter Installation and Users Manual 47
Page 54
Section 5. Maintenance and Troubleshooting
3. Run the exe cutable file by using Windows Explore r to double-click
on the file.
Accept all defaults by continuing to click on the Next button until
you see a message indicating the firmware update has completed.
4. Restart your s ystem.
Troubleshooting Hints
Use these hints if you have problems with installation or capture.
Problems with Installation
If you have problems during or right after installation of your ConvertX,
use these hints to help solve the problem:
•
First, make sure to update your ver s i on of Windows using
Microsoft’s Windows Update.
•
Also, visit the Plextor web site to find other tips to help find and
solve the problem.
Problems with Capture
If you have problems capturing video, make sure the video is not copy
protected. If the ConvertX detects a Macrovision copy protection signal,
the WinDVD Creator software will not record the file on the hard disk.
48
ConvertX Digital Video Converter Installation and Users Manual
Page 55
Appendix A: Specifications
ConvertX Specifications
Product Name Plextor ConvertX
Product Type MPEG-1/2/4 Digital Video Converter
Product Model PX-M401U
System Interface Hi-Speed USB 2.0
Operating Position Horizontal, vertical
Minimum Syst em Requirements
Computer Pentium III, 800-MHz CPU or faster
Minimum Memory 256 MB or higher
Hard Disk Size 10 GB free space preferred.
Interface Hi-Speed USB 2.0
Operating System Windows XP, 2000
Monitor Resolution: 1024 x 768, 24-bit color
Video Graphics Card Windows-compatible 24-bit color capability
with DirectX support
Sound Card Windows-compatible sound card with 48-
kHz playback
CD Drives CD-ROM drive: For software installation.
CD-RW drive: Recommended
DVD+RW or DVD-RW drive: Recommended
DirectX Support DirectX 8.1 required. (Supplied by WinDVD
Creator)
ConvertX Digital Video Converter Installation and Users Manual 49
Page 56
Appendix A: Specifications
MPEG Specifications
Video Compression MPEG-1: ISO/IEC11172-2
MPEG-2: ISO/IEC13818-2
MPEG-4: ISO/IEC14496-2
Video Bit Rate MPEG-1: 1.5Mbps
MPEG-2: 2Mbps-6Mbps
MPEG-4: 800Kbps-4Mbps
MPEG Profile MPEG-1
MPEG-2: Main Profile @ Main Level
MPEG-4: Simple Profile @ Level 1, Level 2,
Level 3
Capture Size MPEG-1: SIF (352 x 240)
MPEG-2, MPEG-4: SIF(352 x 240)
Half D1 (352 x 480)
Full D1 (720 x 480)
Audio Streaming MPEG-1
Audio Layer MPEG-1 Layer II
Audio Bit Rate 224 kbps 16-bit stereo
96 kbps* 16-bit stereo
*MPEG-4 half D1 and SIF size
Audio Sampling Rate 44.1 kHz (MPEG-1 only)
48 kHz
Multiplex Output Type MPEG-1: System stream
MPEG-2: Program stream
MPEG-4: Program stream
GOP Structure MPEG-1: I, IBBP
MPEG-2: I, IP, IBBP
MPEG-4 I, IP
Video Format NTSC
50
ConvertX Digital Video Converter Installation and Users Manual
Page 57
Appendix A: Specifications
Front Panel
Audio R, L RCA audio connectors. Red connector is
right channel, white is left channel.
Composite RCA video connector
S-Video S-Video connector
Record Amber when capturing video
Power Blue when AC adapter and USB cable are
connected to the ConvertX and the computer
is turned on
Power
AC Adapter Input: 100-240 Vac
Output: 9.0 Vdc, 2A max.
Host Interface
USB Connector B Type
USB 2.0 transfers 480 Mbps max (Hi-Speed)
Dimensions and Weight
Dimensions (W/H/D)
184 mm (W) x 32.4 (H) mm x 155 mm (D)
7.24" x 1.28" x 6.10"
Weight 525g (1.16 lb)
Environmental Conditions
Operating Temperature 0 to 40 degrees Celsius
Performance Guarantee
Temperature
Operating Humidity
Storage Temperature –40 to 60 degrees Celsius
Storage Humidity
ConvertX Digital Video Converter Installation and Users Manual 51
5 to 40 degrees Celsius
20% to 80% (non-condensing)
20% to 95% (non-condensing)
Page 58
Appendix A: Specifications
Safety and EMC Standards
Country/ Region Type Agency Standard
USA Safety UL UL 1950 (AC adapter
only)
EMC FCC Part 15 Class B
Canada Safety UL (C-UL) CSA C22.2 No. 950-95
(AC adapter)
EMC IC ICES-003 Class B
Europe Safety CB IEC 60950
(AC adapter)
EMC CE EN 55022 Class B,
EN 55024,
EN 61000-3-2,
EN61000-3-3
Safety CE IEC 60950
WinDVD Creator Specifications
Input Format Video: MPEG-1, MPEG-2, AVI
Audio: WAV and MP3
Image: BMP, JPEG, GIF
Video Output MPEG-1
MPEG-2
MPEG-4 (DivX)
WMV
AVI
Format Support VCD, DVD
(Supported media include DVD-R, DVD-RW,
DVD+R, and DVD+RW)
52
ConvertX Digital Video Converter Installation and Users Manual
Page 59
Appendix B: Technical Support
Store Plextor’s e-mail, web site, phone, and fax numbers in a convenient
location. Keep your digital video converter’s serial number and a copy
of your sales receipt handy as well.
If you experience a problem while installing or operating your
ConvertX, please refer first to the relevant sections of this m a nual
regarding setup and installation (Chap ter s 1–3). If you do not uncover
the solution there, then refer to the maintenance and troubleshooting
chapter that begins on page 47. You may also wish to visit the
Frequently A sked Questions (FAQ) section of our web site t o assist you
in troubleshooting the problem on your own.
NOTE
: We encourage you to go the Plextor web site (www.plextor.com)
before attempting to contact Technical Support. The answers to the most
common questions callers ask can be found quickly in the support area.
Select PlexHelper for online troubleshooting or FAQs for common
questions.
If you have not been successful in your quest, our Technical Support
Department will help you solve prob lems that relate specifically to your
ConvertX. In many cases, a problem that appears to be caused by your
ConvertX actually originates in another part of your computer. In such
instances, our technical support staff will try to help you identify the part
at fault and will refer you to the manufacturer of that part for further
assistance.
ConvertX Digital Video Converter Installation and Users Manual 53
Page 60
Appendix B: Technical Support
How to Contact Plextor Technical Support
There are several ways for you to contact Plextor’s Technical Support
Department:
•
Visit our web site (www.plextor.com
) for answers to Frequently
Asked Questions.
•
Send us e-mail at support@plextor.com
. Include your telephone
number and the hours during which you can be reached. Be as
detailed as possible in describing your problem. Please include
system confi guration, hardware and software, as well as versions of
digital video converters used.
•
Call 800-886-3935 and select the tech support option.
Before You E-mail/Log On/FAX/Call
Please gather as much of the following information as possible before
contacting us.
•
The serial number and TLA number of your ConvertX. Your serial
number can be found on the label on the digital video converter
itself. The TLA number appears on the label at the rear of the digital
video converter.
•
The latest version of firmware you loaded onto the digital video
converter, if applicable.
•
The version of the Windows operating system you are using.
•
The brand name and model number of your computer (e.g., Dell
466/NP, Hewlett-Packard Pavilion 752n, etc.).
•
The type of VGA, Super VGA, or other graphics board you use.
•
Brand name and model number of any other peripherals you have
installed or connected to your computer (e.g., CD-ROM, scanner,
fax board, network board).
54
ConvertX Digital Video Converter Installation and Users Manual
Page 61
Appendix B: Technical Support
Returns
In the unlikely event that you need to return a digital video converter to
Plextor, you need an RMA (Returned Materials Authorization) number.
You need this number before any Plextor digital video converter can be
returned for repair or replacement. Here’s how you get an RMA number
and return your digital video converter:
1. Contact Plextor Technical Support. You will receive assistance in
troubleshooting your system. If the ConvertX is determined to be
defective, you will receive a Tech Support Ticket Number.
2. Locate the RMA request form at:
https://www.plextor.com/english/support/rma_request_form.htm
Complete the form, providing the Technical Support Ticket number
and details of the ConvertX failure. After completing the form, click
the Submit button.
IMPORTANT NOTE
Tech Support Ticket Number.
: The RMA form will not be processed without the
3. Plextor will then return the RMA form to you via e-mail, with the
RMA number and shipping information included.
4. When you receive the RMA number, pack the Plextor ConvertX
securely in a box, and include the RMA form as a packing slip.
5. Write the RMA number in large letters on the outside of the box, and
ship the box and the ConvertX to Plextor.
.
Contacting Plextor’s RMA Department
You can contact our RMA Department and request RMA forms at:
•
rmasupport@plextor.com
•
Or by fax at 510-651-9765
•
Or by calling us at 800-886-3935
ConvertX Digital Video Converter Installation and Users Manual 55
Page 62
Appendix B: Technical Support
Packing Your ConvertX
If possible, pack your ConvertX in the original box. Some of our
customers have not held on to their boxes and have had to resort to lessthan-secure methods to get their units back to us.
If you did not receive a box, we recommend you pay a packaging store
(such as Mail Boxes Etc.) to ship your ConvertX. If you don’t have a
packaging store in your area, ask for packaging pointers when you
contact us to get an RMA number before returning any digital video
converter.
Shipping Your ConvertX to Plextor
Be sure to write the RMA number on the outside of the shipping box.
Any unit sent to Plextor without an RMA number will not be accep ted.
NOTE
: The RMA number must be clearly visible on the outside of the
shipping box.
ConvertX units must be sent postage prepaid. We recommend that you
insure your shipment, as Plextor cannot be held responsible for any
damage that may occur during shipment.
56
ConvertX Digital Video Converter Installation and Users Manual
Page 63
Appendix C: Warranty
PLEXTOR CORP . (“Plextor”) warrants your ConvertX Digital Video
Converter against any defect in material and workmanship, under
normal use, for a period of one year following its date of purchase. In
the event this product is found to be defective within the warranty
period, PLEXTOR will, at its option, repair or replace the defective unit.
This warranty is void: a) if the unit is operated or sto r ed under abnormal
use and maintenance conditions; b) if the unit is repaired, modified or
altered, unless such repair, modification or alteration is expressly
authorized in writing by PLEXTOR; c) if the unit is subjected to abuse,
neglect, lightning strike, electrical fault, improper packaging, or
accident; d) if the unit is installed improperly; or e) if the serial number
of the unit is defaced or missing.
PLEXTOR will not, under any circumstances, be liable for direct,
special, or consequential damages such as, but not limited to, d a mage or
loss of property or equipment, loss of profits or revenues, cost of
replacement goods, or expense or inconvenience caused by service
interruptions. Under no circumstances will any person be entitled to any
sum greater than the purchase price paid for the unit.
To obtain warranty service, you must contact PLEXTOR’s Technical
Support Department by calling 800-886-3935. They will attempt to
diagnose and correct your problem by phone. If the unit does not
function properly, they will issue a Tech Support Ticket number to be
used on your RMA return request. You may be asked to furnish proof of
purchase to confirm that the unit is still under warranty.
All product returns must be authorized in advance by PLEXTOR’s
RMA Department. Authorization is confirmed by issuance of the RMA
number, which must be written prominently on the outside of the box in
which the defective unit is returned to PLEXTOR.
All ConvertX units returned to PLEXTOR must be securely packaged
and shipped postage prepaid.
ConvertX Digital Video Converter Installation and Users Manual 57
Page 64
Appendix C: Warranty
The ConvertX will be returned to the customer at Plextor’s expense
when originating within the United States. For a ConvertX originating
outside of the United States, the customer is responsible for shipping
costs in both directions.
NOTE
: Warranty validity is limited to that applicable in the location where
the ConvertX was originally purchased.
If You’re Outside the U.S. or Canada
Note that the warranty and RMA policy only apply to the United States
and Canada. If you are in South America, contact your dealer or reseller
for all warranty and RMA claims.
58
ConvertX Digital Video Converter Installation and Users Manual
Page 65
.
.avi files · 7
.inf files · 18
.mpg files · 7
A
ac adapter
connecting · 6, 12
power · 51
add chapter mark · 37
adding menus · 24
audio
adding · 33
bit rate · 50
connector · 5, 51
layer · 50
sampling rate · 50
streaming · 50
audio library · 33
audio source, connecting to
ConvertX · 20
author button · 35 , 36
author window · 35
area functions · 36
authoring · 24
process · 35
B
box
contents of · 4
shipping · 55, 56
burn to disc · 40
burning
CD · 39
Index
device setting window · 40
DVD disc · 39
options · 40
select media window · 39
burning wizard · 38, 39
C
capture
copy protection and · 48
troubleshooting · 48
capture button · 25 , 26
capture size · 50
capturing · 24
media · 26
video · 22
capturing media · 25
CD
burning project on · 24, 39
capacity · 41
overview of creating · 23
CD-ROM drive required · 3, 49
CD-RW drive recommended · 4
chapter board · 36
chapter mark
adding · 37
deleting · 36
clock button · 33
codec
removing · 47
composite video · 20
compression
bit rate · 41
options · 41
computer
changing · 19
required · 3, 49
configuration
ConvertX Digital Video Converter Installation and Users Manual 59
Page 66
Index
minimum · 3, 49
options · 28
configuration button · 27, 28
configuration window · 28
configuring input device · 28
connecting the ConvertX · 12
connecting video and audio
sources · 20
connecting video input · 20
connector, power · 6
connectors
front-panel · 5, 51
rear-panel · 6, 51
control panel, ConvertX · 27
ConvertX
block diagram · 1
controls · 5
front panel · 5
no power switch · 17
rear panel · 6
recognizing in Windows · 18
removing codec · 47
copy protection · 48
D
DC 9V connector · 6
delete chapter mark · 36
device driver, installing · 9
device manager button · 18
device setting window · 40
dimensions · 51
DirectX, support requi r ed · 49
disc menu, showing · 45
disk information · 26
DivX
codec in WinDVD Creator · 34
format · 7
drivers
installing · 12
locating manually · 18
DVD · 39
burning project on · 24, 39
capacity · 41
controls · 45
on CD · 39
overview of creating · 23
video recording · 39
DVD±RW drive recommended · 4,
49
E
edit button · 29 , 30
edit window · 30
areas · 29
editing · 24, 29
eject · 45
EMC standards · 52
environmental conditions · 51
F
features · 3, 5
adding interactive · 24
file properties, viewing · 34
files, saving · 34
firmware
obtaining · 47
upgrading · 47
format support, WinDVD Creator ·
52
format window · 39
front-panel
connectors · 5, 51
controls · 5
indicators · 5
functions, window area · 38
G
generating output · 37
GOP structure · 50
60
ConvertX Digital Video Converter Installation and Users Manual
Page 67
Index
H
hard disk size · 3, 49
hardware encoder · 3
help
make movie window · 38
WinDVD player · 45
help files · 45
host interface · 51
humidity specification · 51
I
image library · 26
import button · 24, 33
importing
media · 33
input
connectors · 20
device list · 26
input device, configuring · 28
input format, WinDVD Creator ·
52
installation
ConvertX · 9
failed · 18
troubleshooting · 48
WinDVD Creator · 21
WinDVD player · 43
interface · 49
host · 51
system · 49
USB 2.0 · 3
ISO format · 7
L
library · 26
library buttons · 30
list, input devices · 26
load content from hard disk · 40
M
maintenance · 47
make movie button · 24 , 37, 38
make movie window · 37
media
capturing · 24, 25
editing · 24
importing · 33
media library · 26, 30
memory, minimu m · 3, 49
menus, adding · 24
minimum configuration · 3, 49
model · 49
monitor required · 3, 49
MPEG
files · 44
profile · 50
specifications · 50
video capture · 3
MPEG-1 · 34, 41
MPEG-2 · 34, 41
MPEG-4 · 7, 34
DivX format · 7
ISO format · 7
multiple output type · 50
N
NTSC · 39
O
operating position · 49
operating system · 18
required · 3, 49
updates · 4
options
burning · 40
configuration · 28
ConvertX Digital Video Converter Installation and Users Manual 61
Page 68
Index
P
packing for shipment · 56
PAL · 39
performance guarantee temperature
· 51
play · 45
play button · 30
preview · 34
playlist window · 45
power
connector · 5, 6, 51
LED · 5, 51
precautions · 8
preview area · 26
preview window · 30, 36, 38
previewing a project · 34
product model · 49
R
rear-panel connectors · 6, 51
record button · 27
recording indicator · 5, 51
registration · 17
reset button · 32
returns · 55
rewind · 45
RMA number · 5 5, 56
S
safety standards · 52
saving files · 34
select media window · 39, 40
serial number · 21, 43
sharing project · 24, 37
shipping your drive · 55, 56
show video scenes button · 32
slider · 31
transition · 32
software, WinDVD 4 · 3
sound card required · 3, 49
specifications · 49
ConvertX · 49
WinDVD Creator · 52
storage
humidity · 51
temperature · 51
storyboard · 30
storyboard/timeline button · 30
subpanels · 45
support · 53
S-Video connector · 5, 20, 51
synchronization, video and audio ·
3
system interface · 49
T
tech support ticket number · 55
technical support · 3, 53
temperature specificatio n · 51
theme library · 36
theme menu, adding · 37
ticket number, tech support · 55
timeline · 30
title
adding · 33
adjusting · 33
title library · 33
transfers, USB 2.0 · 51
transition
adding · 32
adjusting · 32
transition button · 32
transition effects library · 32
troubleshooting · 1 9, 47
hints · 48
TV systems
NTSC · 39
PAL · 39
62
ConvertX Digital Video Converter Installation and Users Manual
Page 69
Index
U
upgrading firmware · 47
USB
connector · 51
hi-speed · 3
USB 2.0 · 49
connector · 6
transfers · 51
USB cable · 6
connecting · 12
V
video
bit rate · 50
capturing · 22
compression · 34, 50
connector · 5, 20, 51
format · 50
in minutes · 41
input · 3, 20
recording · 27
video clip
adjusting · 31
dividing into separate segments
· 32
using sliders to trim · 31
video cut tool · 31
video graphics card required · 3, 49
video manager · 31, 32
video output, WinDVD Creator ·
52
video source, connecting to
ConvertX · 20
W
warranty · 3, 57
weight · 51
Windows 2000 · 9
Windows XP · 9
Windows, recognizing ConvertX
in · 18
WinDVD Creator · 3
author window · 35
capture window · 25
capturing media · 25
creating a CD · 23
creating a DVD disc · 23
edit window · 29
editing · 29
make movie window · 38
software installation · 21
specifications · 52
using with ConvertX · 21
WinDVD player · 43
controls · 45
help files · 45
installing software · 43
launching · 44
write content to hard disk · 40
ConvertX Digital Video Converter Installation and Users Manual 63
Page 70
Index
This page intentionally left blank.
64
ConvertX Digital Video Converter Installation and Users Manual
Page 71
Notes
Page 72
PLEXTOR CORP.
48383 Fremont Blvd.
Suite 120
Fremont CA 94538-6509
Phone:
Fax:
E-mail:
510-440-2000
800-886-3935
510-651-9755
info@plextor.com
www.plextor.com
P/N 127-2769-01
Loading...