Sony DSR-45A, DSR-45AP Specifications

Digital Videocassette RecorderNTSC/PAL

DSR-45A
DSR-45AP

For

Professional

Results

range and an excellent signal-to-noise ratio, comparable
to CD-quality audio.

Playback Compatibility with
the DV (25 Mb/s) Format

The DVCAM format maintains playback compatibility with
the consumer DV format.4This compatibility allows the
user to play back DV recorded tapes on the DSR-45A.
Such versatility is quite advantageous to users working
with DV cameras for their great portability and long
recording times.

Dual-size Cassette Mechanism

The DSR-45A has a dual-size cassette mechanism, which
accepts both mini and standard size DVCAM and DV
cassette tapes without any special adaptor. This
innovative feature allows the four different types of
cassette tapes to be used without the cumbersome
process associated with additional mechanical hardware.

Long-duration Recording Capability

DVCAM videocassette tapes come in two sizes: standard
and mini. A maximum recording time of 184 minutes is
possible with a standard size cassette (PDV-184ME),
while the mini cassette (PDVM-40ME) allows up to
40 minutes. Although the tape is relatively narrow,
1/4-inch (6.35 mm), and the cassette compact, these
long recording times are achieved by using Sony
advanced ME (Metal
Evaporated) tape.

Capability of Recording in DV Format

5

Should you require a longer record time than what is
available with the DVCAM format, the DSR-45A is
capable of recording in the DV format. In this format, a
standard-sized cassette records up to 270 minutes.

Versatile Video and Audio Interfaces

i.LINK Interface

The DSR-45A is equipped with a 4-pin i.LINK (DV)
interface based on the IEEE1394 standard. The i.LINK
interface provides a digital link from the DSR-45A to a
variety of compatible equipment including Sony DVCAM
VTRs and third-party nonlinear editors. Signals including
video, audio, time code, and control can be transferred
through this I/O with virtually no degradation of image or
sound quality. In addition, when the DVCAM cassette with
IC memory is loaded into a DSR-45A, the ClipLinkTMdata
recorded on the cassette memory can be uploaded to a
nonlinear editing system.

6

Analog Component Input/Output and
S-Video

The DSR-45A provides a full range of analog video
inputs and outputs; component, composite, and S-Video
inputs and outputs are all available. The DSR-45A can
also be used as a signal converter. Component,
composite, and S-Video analog signals can easily be
converted to and from i.Link digital signals.

DVCAM Format for Excellent Picture and
Sound Quality

The DVCAM Format

The DSR-45A uses the DVCAM format, the professional
extension of the worldwide standard DV format. The
DVCAM format uses 8-bit digital component recording
with a 5:1 compression ratio and a sampling rate of 4:1:1
(for NTSC)/4:2:0 (for PAL). The unique compression
algorithm provides excellent picture quality and superb
multi-generation dubbing performance.

Up to Four Independent, High-quality,
Audio Channels

The DSR-45A provides two selectable audio channel
modes; a two-channel mode with 48 kHz/16-bit
recording and a four-channel mode with 32 kHz/12-bit
recording. Thanks to its PCM (Pulse Code Modulation)
digital stereo recording system, the DSR-45A offers
superb digital audio performance with a wide dynamic

The Versatile DVCAM Recorder For Professional Editing

1. The DSR-45A is best used as a player/recorder in a nonlinear editing suite. When used in A/B roll editing, the DSR-45A can be used as a source feeder. The DSR-45A cannot perform insert or assemble editing nor does it have
a synchronization capability. 2. i.LINK is a Sony trademark used only to designate that a product is equipped with an IEEE 1394 connector. All products with an i.LINK connector may not communicate with each other. Please
refer to the documentation that comes with any device having an i.LINK connector for information on compatibility, operating conditions, and proper connection. 3. Viewable area measured diagonally. 4. In SP mode only

The DSR-45A* is a DVCAMTMdigital videocassette recorder designed for use in both nonlinear editing suites and linear A/B roll-editing
suites as a source feeder1. It is ideal for operations ranging from those in small to medium-sized production houses to corporate
institutions and from video journalism to event/wedding videography. Its i.LINK

TM2

interface allows seamless integration into
compatible DV-based editing suites. In addition, analog component connectors allow the unit to accept and transfer high-quality
video and audio. For external control, the DSR-45A comes standard with Control S, RS-422A and RS-232C interfaces. Equipped with
a 2.5-inch3type built-in LCD monitor, the DSR-45A displays information including audio level and system status, as well as playback
picture. Offering a wide range of interfaces and professional features, the DSR-45A is a powerful tool for all video professionals.

* In the following text, “DSR-45A” refers to both the DSR-45A (NTSC model) and the DSR-45AP (PAL model).

4-channel Separate Audio Inputs/Outputs

The DSR-45A has four, independently selectable, audio
inputs and outputs. Four XLR connectors carry analog
audio outputs, making the DSR-45A easy to integrate into
current analog-based systems.

REF Input

The DSR-45A has an external reference input for
synchronized playback with other VTRs.7This is essential
when a DSR-45A is one of a number of playback sources
in an editing system.

Time Code Input/Output

The DSR-45A is equipped with a time code input/output
capability, enabling time code synchronization with
external equipment, which is ideal for dubbing purposes.
The unit can output time code read from the tape when
played back at normal speed, and can also receive a time
code signal from an external source.

Simple Editing Control

RS-422A Interface

Equipped with an RS-422A interface, the DSR-45A can
function as a source feeder in a professional A/B roll­editing system1. The system can be controlled from
compatible editing controllers. It is also possible to add
the DSR-45A to a current editing system. For example,
in an A/B roll-editing system where DV or DVCAM
recorded tapes are being used as source material, an
S-VHS feeder could be replaced by a DSR-45A.

RS-232C Interface

The DSR-45A is equipped with an RS-232C control
interface allowing basic VTR functions to be controlled
from a PC.

Versatile Recording and Playback
Functions

Effortless Duplication

The DSR-45A has three duplication modes, which can be
set from the menu to copy videocassette tapes. In all
modes, the original time codes are maintained. The
different modes are as follows:

These functions are ideal when making work tapes and
preserving an original master tape.

Auto Repeat Function

The DSR-45A has an Auto Repeat function that enables it
to repeatedly play back a program. Just after the end of
the tape is reached, or the first complete blank portion or
the first index point is detected, the tape is automatically
rewound and playback of the segment is repeated.

8

Power-on Recording/Playback Capabilities

An external timer can be used to trigger the DSR-45A to
record or playback. When the TIMER switch on the front
panel is set to REC, the DSR-45A automatically starts
recording as soon as the AC power is turned on.
Likewise, when the TIMER switch is set to REPEAT, the
DSR-45A goes into the Auto Repeat mode and starts
playing back a program the moment that power is turned
on. These convenient features enable unattended
automatic VTR operation.

User-friendly Features

Built-in LCD Front Panel Monitor

The DSR-45A is
equipped with a 2.5-inch

3

type high-resolution color
LCD monitor. Easy set­up is an advantage of
this monitor, as the set­up menu clearly displays
the appropriate parameters to select. While editing,
working images are displayed, audio level meters are
available, and the system status can be displayed to
simplify the editing process.

Compact Size and Light Weight

The DSR-45A is both compact and lightweight. Two units
can be mounted side-by-side in a 19-inch equipment
rack, where they occupy just two units of rack height.

9

The DSR-45A weighs only 4.6 kg (10 lb 2 oz).

Cassette Memory Search

The DSR-45A has a cassette memory search function.
Searchable index points are marked at the start of every
recording. The DSR-45A can also search for the photo
data recorded on cassettes by DSR-250/250P or
DSR-PD170/PD170P camcorders, or the point where the
recording date has been changed. These operations are
controlled from the supplied wireless remote controller,
RMT-DS5, or an optional DSRM-10 Remote Control Unit.

Color Bar Generator and Tape Counter

The DSR-45A has a color bar generator that can be
activated from the set-up menu.10In addition, the system
comes with a digital tape counter on the front
panel, which is convenient for performing relative
time code data editing, and for monitoring the
operation of the unit.

Wireless Remote Controller

The Wireless Remote Controller, RMT-DS5,
supplied with the DSR-45A, can be used
for control of basic functions.

AUTO TAPE COPY WITH
CASSETTE MEMORY
COPY

AUTO TAPE COPY

MANUAL TAPE COPY

This mode is used to create an exact duplicate of the
original tape without blank segments. Both the material on
the original tape and the information on the IC memory of
the original tape are duplicated.

This mode is used for duplication of the original tape
material without blank segments. The information on the IC
memory is not duplicated.

This mode is used to copy the original tape from any
position on the tape. The information on the IC memory is
not duplicated.

5. When recording in DV (SP) format, transitions between cut to cut may not be smooth. In addition, when the recording format is switched between DVCAM and DV, the transition may not be recorded smoothly. This is a normal
and expected phenomenon. 6. Although the DSR-45A can send ClipLink data via i.LINK, ClipLink data cannot be modified by the DSR-45A. 7. The reference input and the composite input share the same connector.

8. The DSR-45A ignores any blank or index point in the first 20 seconds of the tape. 9. Third party rack-mount kits are available. 10. These color bars are not compatible with the SMPTE standard.

©2005 Sony Corporation. All rights reserved.
Reproduction in whole or in part without written permission is prohibited.
Designs, features, and specifications are subject to change without notice.
All non-metric weights and measures are approximate.
Sony, DVCAM, the DVCAM logo, ClipLink, i.LINK, and the i.LINK logo are
trademarks of Sony.

MK07809V2OHB06JAN

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Specifications

Optional Accessories

VMC-IL4408A/4415/
4435

i.LINK Cable (4-pin to 4-pin)

VMC-IL4615/4635

i.LINK Cable (4-pin to 6-pin)

DSRM-10

Remote Control Unit

DSR-45A DSR-45AP

GENERAL

Power requirements AC 100 V to 240 V, 50/60 Hz
Power consumption 22 W
Operating temperature 5 °C to 40 °C (41 °F to 104 °F)
Storage temperature -20 °C to 60 °C (-4 °F to 140 °F)
Mass 4.6 kg (10 lb 2 oz)
Dimensions (W x H x D) 212 x 98 x 392.8 mm (8 3/8 x 3 7/8 x 15 1/2 inches) (including external projections)
Tape speed Approx. 28.2 mm/s (DVCAM mode), Approx. 18.8 mm/s (DV SP mode)
Recording/Playback time 184 minutes (DVCAM mode), 270 minutes (DV SP mode), with PDV-184ME cassette

40 minutes (DVCAM mode), 60 minutes (DV SP mode), with PDVM-40ME cassette

Fast forward/Rewind time Less than 2 min. with PDV-184ME/184N/184MEM
Search speed ± x1/10, x1/3, x1,x2,x9, x14 (DVCAM) ± x1/10, x1/3, x1,x2,x11, x17 (DVCAM)
(Using supplied RMT-DS5 or optional DSRM-10) ± x1/10, x1/3, x1,x2,x9, x24 (DV SP) ± x1/10, x1/3, x1,x2,x11, x24 (DV SP)

VIDEO

Video system 525/60 (NTSC) 625/50 (PAL)
Rec mode DVCAM/DV (SP mode only)
Playback mode DVCAM/DV (SP mode only)

AUDIO

Rec mode 2CH mode (48 kHz/16-bit) / 4CH mode (32 kHz/12-bit) / automatic (DV IN)
Playback mode (automatically selected) 2CH mode (48 kHz/16-bit) / 4CH mode (32 kHz/12-bit)

2CH mode (32 kHz/16-bit) / 2CH mode (44.1 kHz/16-bit)

INPUT SIGNALS

VIDEO (ANALOG) Composite: BNC (x1) (Shared with Reference IN)

1.0 Vp-p, 75 Ω, sync negative

Component: BNC (x3) Component: BNC (x3)

Y: 1.0 Vp-p, 75 Ω, sync negative Y: 1.0 Vp-p, 75 Ω, sync negative
R-Y: 0.7 Vp-p, 75 Ω (75%) R-Y: 0.7 Vp-p, 75 Ω (100%)
B-Y: 0.7 Vp-p, 75 Ω (75%) B-Y: 0.7 Vp-p, 75 Ω (100%)

S-Video: DIN 4-pin (x1) S-Video: DIN 4-pin (x1)

Y: 1.0 Vp-p, 75 Ω, sync negative Y: 1.0 Vp-p, 75 Ω, sync negative
C: 0.286 Vp-p, (subcarrier burst) 75 Ω C: 0.3 Vp-p, (subcarrier burst) 75 Ω

AUDIO (ANALOG) Audio: PIN jack (x4)

-10/-2/+4 dBu (full bit -20dB) -10/-2/+4 dBu (full bit -18dB)

TIME CODE BNC (x1), 0.5 to 18 Vp-p / 0.5 to 4 Vp-p (with loop-through)

OUTPUT SIGNALS

VIDEO (ANALOG) Composite: BNC (x1)

1.0 Vp-p, 75 Ω, sync negative

Component: BNC (x3) Component: BNC (x3)

Y: 1.0 Vp-p, 75 Ω, sync negative Y: 1.0 Vp-p, 75 Ω, sync negative
R-Y: 0.7 Vp-p, 75 Ω (75%) R-Y: 0.7 Vp-p, 75 Ω (100%)
B-Y: 0.7 Vp-p, 75 Ω (75%) B-Y: 0.7 Vp-p, 75 Ω (100%)

S-Video: DIN 4-pin (x1) S-Video: DIN 4-pin (x1)

Y: 1.0 Vp-p, 75 Ω, sync negative Y: 1.0 Vp-p, 75 Ω, sync negative
C: 0.286 Vp-p, (subcarrier burst) 75 Ω C: 0.3 Vp-p, (subcarrier burst) 75 Ω

Monitor: RCA pin (x1)

1.0 Vp-p, 75 Ω, sync negative

AUDIO (ANALOG) Audio: XLR 3-pin male (x4)

+4 dBu

Monitor: RCA pin (x1)

monaural

Headphone: Stereo mini jack (x1)

TIME CODE BNC (x1), 2.2 Vp-p 600 Ω/ 1.2 Vp-p 75 Ω

DIGITAL INPUT/OUTPUT SIGNALS

i.LINK (DV In/Out): IEEE 1394 based ( 4-pin x1)

OTHERS

Color LCD monitor 2.5-inch3type, 123,200 dots
RS-232C D-sub 9-pin, male (x1)
RS-422A D-sub 9-pin, female (x1)
LANC Stereo mini-mini jack (x1)
Control S Stereo mini jack (IN x1)

SUPPLIED ACCESSORIES

AC power cord, Wireless Remote Commander RMT-DS5, AA Dry Batteries x2, Operating manual,

Interface manual for programmers (RS-232C), Cleaning Cassette