Xara Video Easy HD - 4.0 Instruction Manual

2

Copyright

This documentation is protected by copyright law.

All rights, especially rights to reproduction, distribution, and to the translation, are
reserved.

No part of this publication may be reproduced in form of copies, microfilms or other
processes, or transmitted into a language used for machines, especially data
processing machines, without the express written consent of the publisher.

All rights of reproduction are reserved. Errors in and changes to the contents as well as
program modifications reserved.

Copyright © MAGIX AG, 2001 – 2011. All rights reserved.

MAGIX is a registered trademark of MAGIX AG.

Created under license from Dolby Laboratories

Dolby and the double-D symbol are trademarks of the Dolby Laboratories.

© 1992 – 2011 Dolby Laboratories. All rights reserved.

Other mentioned product names may be registered trademarks of the respective
manufacturer.

This product uses MAGIX patented technology (USP 6518492) and MAGIX patent
pending technology.

www.magix.com

Welcome to MAGIX Video easy 4 HD 3

Welcome to MAGIX Video easy 4 HD

Welcome to MAGIX Video easy 4 HD, the first video editing program for the whole
family. It's so easy to use that even beginners without any prior skills will be able to
design breathtaking videos in just a short time. Transform recordings of family
celebrations, vacations, or special events into video DVDs or present your videos on
the Internet with ease.

It's never been easier to transfer videos from your camcorder to your PC's hard drive,
to optimize video material with a few clicks, and then burn to DVD. This manual
explains how everything works, step-by-step.

The complete electronic manual provides a more detailed explanation of the options,
dialog boxes, menus and program interface.

Have fun with MAGIX Video easy 4 HD,

The MAGIX team

What's new in MAGIX Video easy 4 HD?

Audio commentary: Add commentary to a second audio channel in your video with
ease.

Speed regulation: The playback speed of your objects can be easily adjusted with a
slider - for great effects.

Upload to Facebook™: Created videos may now be uploaded to Facebook™ directly
from MAGIX Video easy 4 HD.

Export AVCHD to memory cards: Now completed videos can be directly exported to a
SD memory cards. This is particularly helpful if you own a Blu-ray player with a SD
slot.

Video exports to mobile devices: Completed videos can now be exported to mobile
devices such as Android phones and iPhone's/iPod's/iPad's.

Go back step-by-step function: Now you can individually select the changes which
should be undone. This gives you more control of your project.

4

Features

Connection and Introduction Wizard
A practical Wizard will guide you through the program: from connecting the video
camera to recording your videos.

Video Editing Wizard
It just doesn't get any easier: Select your video, add text and music, and your movie is
finished – including great transitions!

Clearly laid-out user interface with large buttons
The neatly laid out interface includes extra large buttons and is free of confusing icons
and unnecessary features.

Numerous help functions as video clips
Helpful video clips are available to you directly within the program to explain how the
desired function is used.

Export to DVD, YouTube,
Burn your movies with a menu to DVD, share them online, or save your video clips as
files.

Facebook and as files

Practical project archiving on DVD and hard drive

Projects aren't just securely archived on DVD or your hard drive, they can also be
conveniently edited at any time.
Also supports AVHCD camcorders
With MAGIX Video easy 4 HD you can edit and burn your AVCHD recordings
directly. Only somewhat more expensive programs offer this otherwise.

Preview monitor
View edits and effects beforehand, without changing the output video.

Image optimization
Customize color, brightness, contrast, saturation, and volume with ease.

Toolbar
Add titles and text, transitions, photos and music with just a click.

Transport control
The start and stop marker can be moved to any desired position to place edits.

www.magix.com

Serial number 5

Serial number

A serial number is included in each product. This serial number is required for the
installation of the software and enables usage of additional bonus services. Please
store this number in a safe place.

What can a serial number do?
With a serial number your MAGIX Video easy 4 HD is clearly assigned to you and
only you. This will allow you take advantage of the free email customer service. Abuse
of the software can be prevented with a serial number, and it allows us to continue to
offer an optimum price/performance ratio.

Where can the serial number be found?
This can be found on the paper envelope of your installation CD.

For the versions that have been especially optimized for the Internet (download
versions), you'll receive your serial number for activating the software directly after
purchasing the product via email.

When will you need the serial number
The serial number is required when you start or register MAGIX Video easy 4 HD for
the first time.

Note: We explicitly recommend registering your product (free), since only then are
you entitled to download updates and use MAGIX support services or activate
codecs.

6

Table of Contents

Copyright 2
Welcome to MAGIX Video easy 4 HD 3
What's new in MAGIX Video easy 4 HD? 3
Features 4
Serial number 5
Customer service 8
MAGIX Online World 10

MAGIX Online Album 10
MAGIX Website Maker 10
Catooh – the Online Content Library 10
MAGIX News Center 11

Start program 12
Import video 13

Import video from digital camcorders 14
Import video from a digital camera 17
Import from analog sources (e.g. video recorder) 17

Edit Video 21

Scene recognition 21
Cut an Object 22
Remove a Clip 22
Automatic movie editing 23
Start Video Editing 24
Apply effects 24
Sound and music 25
Insert Title 28
Insert Transitions 29
Insert additional images/videos 29

Finish movie 30

Burn to disc/Save to SD card 30
Save on computer 34
Upload to Internet 35

www.magix.com

Table of Contents 7

Export to a mobile device 36
Archive project on computer/DVD 37

Menu Reference 38

File Menu 38
Edit Menu 42
Menu effects 43
Help Menu 45
"Share" menu 47

Dialog and Interface Reference 48

Video Monitor 48
Set object 49
Title and text 51
Video effects 52
Scene recognition 52
Video stabilization 54
Display duration... 54
Clean-up Wizard 55
Object properties 55
Project settings 56
Program settings 56

Activate codec 58
If you still have questions 59

Tips for program help 59

Glossary 60
Annex: Digital Video and Data Storage 73

MPEG Compression 73
Interlace 73
Digital Versatile Disc (DVD) 75
AVCHD disc 75
Blu-ray Disc 76

Index 77

8

Customer service

Our aim is to provide easy, fast and solution-focused support at all times. To this end,
we offer a wide range of services:

• Unlimited web support:

As a registered MAGIX customer, you have unlimited access to web support
offered via the convenient MAGIX service portal at http://support.magix.net,
including an intelligent help assistant, high-quality FAQs, patches and user reports
that are constantly updated. The only requirement for use is product registration
on www.magix.com

• The online community - on-the-spot support and a platform for exchange:

MAGIX customers have free and unlimited access to the online community at
www.magix.info, which offers the opportunity to ask questions about MAGIX
products and to search for topics or answers. Besides questions & answers, the
knowledge pool includes a glossary, video tutorials and a discussion forum. The
multiple experts, found round-the-clock on www.magix.info guarantee quick
answers, sometimes within minutes of a question being posted.

• Email support for MAGIX products:

For every new MAGIX product you will receive, as of date purchase, 12 months of
email based customer service.
Premium email support:
For priority support, or if you want the MAGIX support team to help with non­MAGIX related harware problems you can purchase an Premium email support
ticket for USD 12.99 | CAD 13.99 | GBP 9.99 | AUD 18.99 | ZAR 120.00 | EUR

12.99 | SEK 119.00 | NOK 99.00 | DKK 99.00. Log in at http://support.magix.net
and click on "Purchase access code", the ticket is for a specific problem, and is
valid until it is solved, it is not restricted to an email.

Please note: To be able to use the Premium email support and free product email
support via the Internet, you have to register your MAGIX product using the serial
number provided. This can be found on the CD case of your installation CD or on the
inside of the DVD box.

• Additional telephone service:

Besides the large number of free customer service offers, we also offer a fee­based telephone customer service.

A summary of technical support telephone numbers is available here:

http://support.magix.net/

Mail (Europe): MAGIX Development Support, P.O. Box 20 09 14, 01194 Dresden,
Germany

www.magix.com

Mail (North America): MAGIX Customer Service, 1105 Terminal Way #302, Reno,
NV 89502, USA

MAGIX Sales Department

You can reach the MAGIX Sales Department workdays for help with the following
questions and problems:

• Orders

• Product consulting (pre-purchase)

• Upgrade requests

• Returns

Customer service 9

Europe

Monday - Friday, 09:00-16:00 GMT

U.K.: 0203 3189218
Denmark: 699 18149
Sweden: 0852500858
Finland: 09 31581630
Norway: 0210 30665

North America

9 am to 4 pm EST Mon-Fri
Phone: [phone]
Please have the following information at hand:

• Which MAGIX program are you using (version)?

• Which operating system do you use?

• What make is your graphics card and what screen resolution do you use?

• What make is your sound card? Or do you use the pre-installed sound system of

your computer?

• For video programs: What make is your video card or FireWire card?

• How large is your RAM?

• What version of DirectX is installed?

10

MAGIX Online World

MAGIX Online World from MAGIX offers you a range of new services for your photos,
videos, and music that are accessible directly from the "Share" menu in MAGIX Video
easy 4 HD:

MAGIX Online Album

MAGIX Online Album is your personal multimedia album on the Internet. If you want
to present slideshows or videos online, then MAGIX Online Album is the perfect
service.

MAGIX Website Maker

MAGIX Website Maker helps you create a personal Internet showcase with a
professional design in just a few mouse clicks – without prior knowledge, including
your own chosen domain and email address. Publish slideshows and videos and
accessorize your site with music and various effects – anything from a simple
business card to a fireworks display of effects, professional or private – show your best
side!

More about this topic can be found under MAGIX Website Maker.

Catooh – the Online Content Library

If your project is missing pictures, videos, DVD menus, sounds, or samples, then you
should have a look at the huge selection available at Catooh. There you'll be able to
buy media in excellent quality for low prices: DVD menus, MAGIX Movieshow Maker
styles, decorative elements, 3D power effects, 3D transition series, MAGIX
Soundpools, songs, ringtones... Perfectly suited to all MAGIX photo, video, and music
projects.

www.magix.com

MAGIX Online World 11

MAGIX News Center

The MAGIX News Center features links to current online tutorials and tips & tricks on
the software application examples. The "News" is indicated by color according to
content:

• Green indicates practical tips & tricks for the software

• Yellow reports the availability of new patches and updates

• Red for special offers, contests and questionnaires

If no new messages are present, the button will appear gray. When the MAGIX News
Center is clicked, all of the available information will be displayed. Click the messages
to reach the corresponding website.

12

Start program

• Start MAGIX Video easy 4 HD by double-clicking the program icon on the

desktop or by accessing MAGIX Video easy 4 HD via the Windows Start menu.

The first time the program is started, you will have to enter the serial number. More
information about this can be found in the chapter "Serial number" (view page 4).

New video project:Create a new project. MAGIX Video easy 4 HD automatically
creates a subfolder for the newly created video project bearing the same name as the
project itself. In the following dialog you load the videos that you want to edit.

Video project: Previously saved video may be reloaded and then edited (view page

20) here.

Introductio

especially interesting for beginners who have little or no experience with digital video
editing.

Load previously saved video: The last project you worked on can be reloaded here.

n video: This video describes the basics in MAGIX Video easy 4 HD. It's

www.magix.com

Import video

Import video 13

Import videos from digital cameras: Videos can be easily imported from digital
camcorders like AVCHD, MiniDV, and HDV cameras into MAGIX Video easy 4 HD.

Import videos from cameras: Import videos from digital still cameras with video
feature using this option.

Select files on the computer: If you would like to load videos that have already been
added to your computer, then select this option. You only need to open the correct
folder and select the video.

Import videos from analog sources (e.g. video recorders): This option is available for
recordings from analog video sources. These may be (VHS and Super-VHS), but also
analog camcorders (e.g. Video 8, Hi8).

Important Analog video recordings require special hardware to be able to receive the
analog video signal on the computer. These devices are often referred to as "video
cards" or "video devices" and exist as internal cards (PCI, PCI express) or as external
devices that may be connected to the computer using USB or FireWire (also called
"iLink" or "IEEE 1394").

Keyboard shortcut: V

14

Import video from digital camcorders

MiniDV/HDV: The recorded video is saved onto MiniDV cassettes in digital form. to
transfer the video, the tape must always be palyed back at normal speed, making
transferring of a video very similar to a "genuine" recording.

AVCHD camera: These cameras save the video material onto built-in hard drives or
memory cards. This therefore involves simple copying of data, which makes transfer
simple and convenient.

Connect camera/AVCHD camera

1. Connect your camera to the computer and turn the camera on.

2. Switch your camera to playback mode. The computer will normally recognize

the camera automatically.

3. In MAGIX Video easy 4 HD click on "Next".

Tip: Check the battery level and plug in the camera's power as required.

If the camera isn't automatically detected select the drive letter manually from the list.
If you have only just connected the camera click on the button next to the list to
refresh.

www.magix.com

Import videos or photos from a camera / AVCHD camera

Import video 15

On the right you will see all the photos and
videos saved on the camera. All preview
images, dates, times, and lengths are also
displayed.

View filter: You can specify whether the list
shows photos, films or both.

Select the desired photos and videos from the
list. You can select multiple video sequences by
holding down "Ctrl" while clicking items in the
list.

When you've selected the photos and videos you want click on the "Transfer Video
Sequence" button. The media files will then be transferred to the computer. You can
repeat this step as many times as you like. If you decide that you don't want to use a
video select "Delete Marked" and it will be deleted from the computer.

If you plan on making a DVD you might want to select the "Optimize For DVD
Output" option. This means that HD material is converted to DVD format when being
transferred so it can be edited more easily.

Clicking "Start Video Editing" closes the dialog.

16

Recordings from MiniDV/HDV cameras

Switch on the camera and set it to playback mode. Check the battery level and plug in
the camera's power as required. Now connect the camera with a FireWire cable to the
computer. Windows will normally detect the camera automatically. Then click
"Continue" in the dialog that appears.

Note: Not all computers feature a FireWire interface. in most cases, this may be
added without much trouble. In this case, talk to your computer specialist.

Note: You may also use a HDV camera in DV mode to, for example, transfer
recordings in the old DV format. We have noted problems with this mode in many
cameras, and therefore recommend that the Record mode of the camera is also
switched to DV, switching the camera off and then on again.

MiniDV/HDV cameras - transferring scenes

The camera can be conveniently controlled in
MAGIX Video easy 4 HD with the remote control.

Simply go to the position that you would like to
transfer to MAGIX Video easy 4 HD and click the
"Transfer video to computer" button.

Repeat the process until all of the desired scenes have been transferred.

www.magix.com

Important: The camera must replay the cassette at the original tempo to transfer the
material, which may take some time.

Import video 17

Import video from a digital camera

This feature allows you to import videos and photos from a digital camera that is
connected to the computer with a USB cable. This procedure is exactly the same as
importing from a AVCHD camera (view page 14).

Import from analog sources (e.g. video recorder)

Video recordings that were created using analog camcorders or that are played back
with a vidfeo recorder must first be recorded with the computer and then converted to
digital video. This requires special hardware that features a video import (TV, video, or
video-in graphics card).

The so-called "video grabber“, "video capture device", or "video cards" are all available,
plus insertable cards that need to be built in and activated by computer specialists, or
even USB or FireWire devices.

Connections to the cards usually look this way (see figure).

The top connection is a so-called "composite" cartridge. the
connection shown below is called an "S-video" connection and

features better quality than the composite connection.

Due to the variety of device configurations, it is difficult to say which cable will
function best with your setup. If you’re not sure, check the manual of your VCR or your
TV, video, or graphics cards.

If these connections are used, then the sound will have
to be transferred with a separate cable (red/white
connections).

These cables will have to be connected to the line-in on
the sound card or (if available) the video card. You may

require an adapter.

Adapter cables are often included to enable connection
from video recorders a SCART.

18

Example: Many VCRs and DVD players have a Scart, 3 RCA (2 for stereo sound, 1 for
video), or S-Video and optical audio outs. In such cases, you will need a SCART to
RCA adapter, a cable with 3 RCA jacks, or even possibly an S-Video cable.

SCART/RCA adapter Scart/RCA adapter with 3

RCA jacks

Most sound card inputs are 3.5 mini stereo jacks. To connect the VCR audio out to the
sound card audio in you will need a stereo RCA/ mini phono plug adapter. You will
most likely have to buy a cable with 3 RCA plugs and a stereo cinch/mini jack adapter
from your local supplier.

Note: Most video converters record both image and sound. This kind of converter
can usually be found in the online store at www.magix.com.

Stereo RCA/mini-phone
jack adapter

Transfer analog video

• Then select the recording quality.

• Position the tape in the camcorder at the point from which you would like to

transfer video to the computer.

• Click "Transfer video to computer"

• Start playback on the camcorder.

• If the video from the camcorder should be transferred in multiple sections, repeat

the procedure until all sections have been transferred.

If you select the option "Automatic scene recognition", then the material will be split
into scenes automatically. Scene recognition is important for deleting unwanted
scenes and creating chapters for the DVD menu later on.

www.magix.com

Import video 19

Recording quality:

Select the desired quality depending on what the material is going to used for and
according to the memory available.

Click "Advanced view" to be able to set the desired sound card or sound card input
that will be used to record audio. In the advanced view you have can make additional
changes to your hardware settings.

A click on the speaker button opens the Windows mixer for the set sound
card in recording view.

Format settings/drivers

Note: The settings that may be adjusted here normally only need to be changed if
there are problems transferring the analog video signal. This may be the case if the
drivers for the video card have been programmed incorrectly.

Here you can adjust certain settings for the video recording driver.

These dialog boxes, so-called “property sheets,” come with the video card drivers.
These driver-specific performance properties may deviate depending on the cards. We
also have a very limited influence on the behavior of these drivers. If you encounter
any difficulties, please contact the video card manufacturer for the latest driver
updates.

Source: Sets the crossbar of the video card.

20

The crossbar determines which video and audio input signal will be recorded. The
crossbars are connected in series to the video recording chip itself. In the output field,
the video output (for the crossbars) is the input for the recording chip (video or audio
decoder-in) of the video card. In the “Input” field, select the signal source that will be
used by the video card to capture for this input. Many video cards have separate
crossbars for audio and video. If you have a problem, try out the different
configurations until the right sound matches the right image.

• Composite-in = the normal video input (typically a cinch jack)

• S-video = S-video input (mini-din jack)

• SVHS-in = SVHS input (special cable)

• Tuner-in = TV signal of the integrated tuner

Display

Video decoder: If the picture only appears in black & white or it flickers, the video
standard may be set incorrectly. In mainland Europe, PAL_B is used.

VideoProcAmp: Fine-adjustment of colors, brightness, contrast etc. We recommend
against changing any of the manufacturer’s settings.

Format: Please do not change anything here. The capturing format is set in the
"Recording quality" option in the video recording dialog.

Station selection

This option is only available if a TV tuner is integrated into your video card.

www.magix.com

Edit Video 21

Edit Video

Scene recognition

For longer videos, it's recommended that you use the scene recognition feature if you
don't want to use all of the material.

For each new scene, you will receive a new entry in the DVD menu later, making it
possible to jump from scene to scene with your DVD player's remote control.

• Choose the "Scene recognition" option in the "Effects" menu.

• In the dialog, select the option "Automatic scene recognition" to cut at all

noticeable scene changes.

• The option "Manual scene detection" is recommended for complicated material.

Each individual scene must be confirmed or declined.

Keyboard shortcut: Shift + Z

22

Cut an Object

The playback bar is located below the video window.

• To change the beginning of the selected object, drag the marker at the outer left

end of the playback bar to the right with the mouse until you reach the position
where the object should begin.

• To change the end of the object, drag the marker at the outer right end to the left

accordingly.

These two markers therefore allow you to select the section that should be played
back.

Remove a Clip

If you would like to remove a clip, you will have to select it first.

• Click the associated preview image in the filmstrip view.

The color of the filmstrip will change to indicate that the associated object has been
selected.

• To remove it, press "Del" on the keyboard.

The object will only be removed from the project, i.e. the video object will not be
removed from the hard drive.

www.magix.com

Edit Video 23

Automatic movie editing

Automatic film editing allows you to add suitable transition effects and background
music to all scenes and images.

1. Open the "File" menu and select the entry "Automatic movie editing".

2. Select an appropriate style and set approximately how long the film should be.

3. Click "Create movie (preview)" to receive a suggestion.

4. Click "Apply" to confirm the suggestion. "Cancel" will leave the film the way it

was before.

24

Start Video Editing

The buttons for video editing are located in the right area of the screen.

• First, select the object that you would like to edit.

• Next, click the "Set Object" button to get the effects settings for the selected

object.

Apply effects

The three fade controllers increase or decrease image brightness, contrast, and
saturation.

• To do so, click on the slide controller and drag it to the left to decrease the value

or to the right to increase it.

• Alternatively next to the slide controller you can input the exact values in

percentage form.

With the help of the color wheel you can increase or reduce the selected color. For
example, this allows you to remove a blue tint from the material.

• Click the color wheel and drag the point at the center with the mouse button

pressed to the range that you would like to highlight.

By pressing the "Video effects" button in the Media Pool you can find various effects
which can be loaded via drag & drop onto any video. The effect will be applied to the
selected video with a double click.

www.magix.com

Edit Video 25

Sound and music

In MAGIX Video easy 4 HD background music and audio commentary can be easily
added and edited.

Add background music

• Click on the "Music" button to choose background music for your video.

• Then select the desired music files. "Open" inserts the file into the audio track.

The length of the music will be adjusted to match the length of the video. The
background music will be adjusted automatically if you insert other images or
videos into the video project.

• You can insert additional music tracks before or after the selected music track

using its context menu or the arrow symbol (see illustration).

The music volume can be changed in the "Audio" dialog with the help of a separate
volume controller.

Hint: The music track will be cut off if it is longer than the video.

Keyboard shortcut: M

Reposition Background Music

If necessary, audio tracks can now be repositioned. Click in the center and move it with
the mouse key held down to the desired position.

Hint: If there are several audio tracks in the video project, they cannot be exchange
with each other and may be moved around only in the free ranges.
If an audio object is too short to drag and move it, simply cut the video object (view
page 21) above it. This is because the displayed length of the audio object is
depending on the real video object's length.

26

Background Audio Trimming

Click the edge of the audio track. Now move the edge with the mouse key held down
to the desired position.

Inserting audio commentary

If you want to add commentary to your
videos, position the play cursor at the
corresponding place in the movie and
click on the "Audio recording" button in
the "Audio" tab in Media Pool.

The following dialog will open:

Check whether the correct audio driver has been selected. Normally the program will
select the correct drivers automatically. You will see if there is a signal present by the
movement of the level indicator. Access Windows audio settings by using "Peak
Control".

The red recording button starts the actual recording. The project will be played
simultaneously in MAGIX Video easy 4 HD so you can add you comments at the right
points in the movie directly.

The stop button stops recording. This gives you the option to use the recording, delete
it or to start over if something went wrong.

www.magix.com

Edit Video 27

Change the volume

The volume of the audio track can be adjusted with the volume fader in the "Audio"
section.

• Use the left slider "Object" to set the original audio track. The slider is deactivated

for photos because the don't have an audio track.

• The middle slider "Background" can be used to set the volume of the background

music.

• The right slider "Audio Dubbing" can be used to set the volume of the spoken

commentary.

Slider settings always refer to the selected object or commentary and background
music at the current playback position. This allows you to adjust music, commentary
and scenes of differing volume to one another.

To fade pieces of music or commentary in and out use the "Fade In Music" or the
"Fade Out Music" command in the audio object's context menu.

Remove background music

Individual pieces of music or comments can also be removed by right clicking and
selecting "Remove music" or "Remove comment" in the context menu. You can
remove all pieces of music or commentary other ways, just use the "Remove all
background music" feature and all music and commentary will be removed.

Note: A video's original sound cannot be removed, you can however set the volume
in the audio tab to 0.

The context menu can also be reached using the little arrow on the music track.

Editing music or comments.

If you want to remove a bit from the middle of a comment or piece of music cut the
music first. Place the playback marker at the right point and select "Cut comment at
current playback position" from the context menu. Two independent audio objects are
created. Place the playback marker on the second object, at the end of the point that
you want to remove and cut again. The undesired middle object can now be removed
using context menu commands.

28

Insert Title

Switch to the text module by clicking the "Title and Text" button.

The text entry field can be used to write the text that should appear above the selected
object.

• If you would like the text to appear on its own before the video footage appears,

simply click on "New title".

• You can format the text using the "Font Type and Font Appearance" options. The

three buttons next to it position your text, either left justified, centered or right
justified.

• Use the arrow keys from "Position" to place it precisely on the screen.

• "Animation" creates moving titles. To create closing credits, select the animation

"From bottom to top".

• "Display time", "Fade-in", and "Fade-out" enable you to control the display

behavior of the title during playback. The display always starts at the beginning of
the selected object. If the title should be displayed somewhere other than the
start, cut it at the desired start point and select the back part.

www.magix.com

Edit Video 29

Insert Transitions

Transitions are fades between objects. Normally, a so-called "Hard Cut" is made
between objects: The first image of the following object appears directly at the end of
the previous object, i.e. without any special fade effect.

However, you are free to select a fade if you would like to add one.

• Click on the fade symbol between two objects to open the fade dialog.

The transition dialog provides fades that can be placed between two objects. You may
choose between "No fade" (preset), "Transition", "To black" and "More..."

If "No fade" is selected, then a hard cut will be made. If "Transition" is selected, then
the objects will be faded softly from one into the other. "To black" fades the last image
of the first object to black, and the first image of the following object begins shortly
after. If you press "More", a selection of fades with transparency effects, or so-called
"AlphaMagic fades" will open.

• Select an option and click "Preview" to get an impression of the effect.

• Click "OK" if you are pleased with the current settings you have selected.

Insert additional images/videos

• If you would like to use additional images or videos, click the "Photos" or "Movie"

buttons.

• If you select the right film button, an import dialog will open in which you can

select a source: load digital or analog video recordings, files from cameras or files
from your computer.

• Photos and image files will be shown for 7 seconds as still images. If you would

like to change the display duration, then right click on the preview image and
select the option "Display duration".

Additional images or videos will appear with a preview image in the filmstrip view.
Click and drag to move to different positions or delete.

30

Finish movie

If you are satisfied with your movie, you can burn it to disc, export it as a video file, or
upload it to the Internet, e.g. YouTube

• Click "Finish movie" to open the export dialog.

.

The dialog that follows offers a wide range of options of what you can do with your
finished movie.

Keyboard shortcut: B

®

or to your MAGIX Online Album.

Burn to disc/Save to SD card

If you save your movie to an SD card or burn it onto a blank DVD, Blu-ray or AVCHD
disc, you will be able to play it back on any conventional playback device. Click "Burn
Video disc" in the export dialog.

Select DVD, Blu-ray, AVCHD or SD card

First select to which data storage medium you would like to burn the video project. As
well as being able to export directly to discs MAGIX Video easy 4 HD can export
straight to hard drives and SD cards. This is useful if you own a playback device with
an SD card slot.

• DVD: DVD (view page 75) offers good video quality with c

This format can be burned to DVD blanks and played back with conventional DVD
players.

• Blu-ray: Blu-ray disc is also suitable for high-quality videos, but instead of MPEG-

4 codecs uses the older MPEG-2 codec. This format may be burned only to blank
Blu-ray discs (view page 76).

• AVCHD: A

abbreviation HD for High Definition, and is a component of the extremely high
quality, but very computationally-demanding MPEG-4 -codec. Depending on
length and quality, video footage can be burned to conventional DVD discs or a
Blu-ray disc (view page 75).

Note: This format can be played back exclusively on Blu-ray players, even if a DVD
blank is used. Please check whether your player is capable of playing these "AVCHD
DVDs".

VC (also H.264) stands for Advanced Video Codec, and the

omparatively little data.

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Finish movie 31

• SD card: Current Blu-ray players and TV sets with AVCHD compatibility can play

back HD videos from SD cards.

Note: A specific file and folder structure is required for AVCHD videos. This can be
found in the burn dialog. A movie can be saved to an SD card (as a removable
storage device) by selecting the option "Save on computer", but this can lead to
problems with playback in some cases.

Design Disc Menu

In the dialog that follows, you can see a preview of the disc menu.

• Click "Menu Preview" to play the current disc menu. This is how the disc will start

later when it is inserted into a player.

• If you would like a different menu, select a different menu template and click

"Apply".

• If you still want to change the title of the menu entries, double click the title in the

menu preview, to open "Menu Entry Properties".

• Once you are satisfied with your menu, click "Burn".

32

Menu entry properties

• Use the field "Menu text" to change the menu entry text.

• In the fields below it, you may format the text (e. g. change font size and font type,

add shadows and 3D effects).

• With "Menu image" you can choose which image should be displayed as the

menu image. You can use a frame from your film or a file on your hard drive.

• Under "Action at the end of the film", you can specify what the DVD player does

once the associated movie has finished playing.

• If you are happy with your changes, close the dialog with "OK" and open the

burning dialog via the "Burn" button.

The burn dialog

The following dialog will now open for you to select "Burn".

Hint: The dialog name adjusts to each selected disc format.

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Finish movie 33

1. Set up burner and burn speed: If you have multiple burners installed, you can

select which device you wish to use in this menu. The burn speed depends on
the type of blank disc being used and can only be set after it has been inserted
into the drive.

2. Encoder settings: Use the “Encoder” button to access the selection dialog

where you can specify the properties of the MPEG Encoder (memory
requirements, quality and duration of the MPEG conversion).

3. Start disc burning/video encoding: "Burn disc" starts the disc burning process.

Every time you burn and every time a simulation is carried out, the disc project
is encoded into MPEG-2 formatfor DVDs and Blu-ray discs, and into MPEG-4
format for AVCHD discs. You have the option of choosing a storage location
for the video file on the hard drive. Please note that the MPEG file is not deleted
from the hard drive after the burn process has finished. Depending on the
length of the project, encoding and burning may take some time. The time
remaining can be seen in the dialog.

Encoder settings

Use the “Encoder settings...” button to access the selection dialog to specify the
properties of the MPEG encoder (memory requirements, quality, and duration of the
MPEG conversion

Presets: These are the additional settings for the selected disc type. Normally, MAGIX
Video easy 4 HD will automatically select the right settings.

Longplay DVD DVD with extra-long playing time in PAL -format. The

bit rate is reduced, which compromises quality.

Standard DVD Normal DVD
Standard DVD widescreen Normal DVD in 16:9- widescreen format

Note: For all settings, you can choose NTSC (USA and Japan) or PAL (Europe).

Bit rate: The bit rate determines the memory requirement of the completed video. The

higher the bit rate, the larger the file, and the shorter the maximum playing time of the
movie that fits on a disc.

Adjust bit rate: The expected file size of the finished video is estimated, depending on
the set bit rate. If the movie does not fit onto the disc, the bit rate is corrected
accordingly.

Quality: Specifies the quality of the encoding process. The higher the quality, the
better the finished video will look; however, encoding will take considerably longer.

Smart Rendering: With Smart Rendering you can considerably reduce the encoding
processing strain for MPEG files. With the production of MPEG files, only those parts
of the movie that were changed in the program (e.g. by video cleaning or effects) are
re-encoded. Please note: The MPEG files contained in the movie must have the same

34

format, i.e. the bit rates (variable or constant), audio formats, image resolutions and
video formats must match.

Anti-flicker filter: This option should only be activated for playback on a TV screen,
since it is intended to reduce line flickering.

Enhancements: Here you can find further options for MPEG encoding.

To return to the standard settings, press the Reset button.

Burn several movies to one disc.

If you've finished multiple short movies you may want to burn them together on the
same disc.

To do so use the "Add
Project" button in the
burn dialog.

Simply load the project files (*.mvy) of the other movie projects. The disc menu will be
adjusted accordingly.

Save on computer

If you save your movie as a video file, you can open it at any time on your computer
and play it back with Windows Media Player.

• Click "Save on computer" in the selection dialog to save your movie as a video file.

In the following dialog, the settings provided are suitable for the majority of cases.

• Click "Save video" to select a save folder and start the export process.

Before exporting the file you can choose a different quality or set the MPEG format
instead of the WMV format.

• Select the desired quality from the "Quality" drop down menu. As the quality

increases so does the amount of space required on the hard drive.

• If you would like to produce the video in the MPEG format, select MPEG-2 or

MPEG-4 under "Format".

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Finish movie 35

Upload to Internet

You can present your movie on YouTube or share it with family and friends on
Facebook.

• Click "Upload to Internet" in the export dialog.

In the dialog that follows, you may setup your video for presentation on YouTube
Facebook

• Under "Title" enter a descriptive title for the video as it will appear on YouTube

®

Facebook

.

®

.

• An informative "description" tells your viewers what the video is about.

• You may enter terms in "Keywords" to help users find your video in YouTube.

• Just for YouTube

®

: You can select the "Category" in which the video should be

published.

In "Send" you choose which user groups are able to see your videos.

"Export settings" allows you to choose different quality settings for your video.

®

and

®

or

36

Export to a mobile device

You can export your project to mobile devices made by Apple, the Samsung Galaxy
Tab, or mobile phones with Android operating systems.

• Click on "Export to mobile device" in the export dialog

Then select the mobile device from the list.

Tip (only for Android phones and the Samsung Galaxy Tab): Normally your device
will be correctly recognized as "Mass storage device) by your computer. If this is not
the case then change the connection detection settings of the device before
connecting to your computer, so you can select the correct connection type (e.g.
"Mass storage drive") For more details on these consult your device manual.

www.magix.com

Finish movie 37

Archive project on computer/DVD

At the end, you should always backup your project on your PC or DVD to ensure you
don't lose your work. This also means that you can edit your project at a later date,
save it in another format, or burn it onto another medium.

• Click on "Archive project on computer" or "Archive on DVD" in the export dialog.

All of the files used in the project will be copied into the folder indicated.

38

Menu Reference

In this chapter you'll find the full menu list of your copy of MAGIX Video easy 4 HD
and the corresponding functions.

File Menu

New

This menu item creates a new MAGIX Video easy 4 HD project. You can also open
this feature via the "New Project" button above the video monitor.

Keyboard shortcut: Shift + N

Open

This menu item loads a previously saved MAGIX Video easy 4 HD project. Please note
that the related files must be accessible.

MAGIX Video easy 4 HD searches for the used sounds, pictures and videos under the
path to where you last saved the disc project.

Keyboard shortcut: Ctrl + O

Last projects accessed

Load the last projects you opened using this menu item.

Automatic movie editing

Open the automatic editing (view page 23) feature here.

Keyboard shortcut: W

Clean-up Wizard

This menu item opens the Clean-up Wizard. This helps remove unnecessary names to
save memory on the hard drive.

Save

The current disc project is saved with the name displayed in the project window. If you
have not yet specified a name for your project, a dialog will open wherein MAGIX
Video easy 4 HD asks you to do so.

Keyboard shortcut: Shift + S

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Menu Reference 39

Save as...

A dialog opens where you can specify the path and name of the video, under which it
is to be saved.

Keyboard shortcut: Shift + S

Import...

These 3 menu entries enable video, photo, and music files to be imported into the
current project.

You can use the 3 pictured buttons in the filmstrip view to do this.

Keyboard shortcut: F/M/V

Internet

This is a list of menu entries regarding all of the services that are available directly
from within MAGIX Video easy 4 HD.

MAGIX Online Album

With MAGIX Online Album you can publish your photos and videos directly to the
Internet. You can also play your music as MP3s in the Online Album. Create your
personal album website in no time with your own Internet address and showcase
everything that's fun about multimedia to the world.

Catooh – the Online Content Library

Catooh provides you with high-quality photos, videos, and music for every theme,
expanded by intelligent iContent with professional Soundpools, DVD menu templates,
and brilliant MAGIX ShowMaker styles to help you make your photo, video, and music
projects reality. All of this is available directly from your MAGIX software.

Just choose "Share" from the menu "Catooh" to set up an Internet connection.

Browse through the thematically sorted categories or view the results directly by
entering a keyword. After downloading, you can drag the objects from the Media Pool
directly into your arrangement.

Tip: Read the introduction online!

40

Youtube / Facebook

This is a direct connection between MAGIX and different communities like YouTube
or Facebook.

Youtube / Facebook

Uploads the current film to the selected portal or to the selected community. Enter the
data for video into the fields provided, so that the search function for this portal can
also find this video.

MAGIX Video easy 4 HD partially uses the H.264 format for this, which is a
component of the MPEG-4 codec. Since Flash supports this format directly and most
communities and portals use the format, the film does not need to be re-rendered on
the corresponding server. This avoids loss of quality.

When HD material is uploaded, a resolution of 720p is used for the HD format.

Audio recording

This menu option opens the audio recording dialog.

Select an audio driver and then click the record button to begin recording.

Tip: Your own recordings are inserted into an audio channel underneath the music
channel. There you can freely move, extend, or shorten your creation.

Finish Project

This menu point opens the Project Finishing Wizard (view page 29).

Backup copy
Copy project and media into folder...

With this menu option, you can put a complete project, including all applied
multimedia files, into one folder. Use this option to compile all of the media used in the
current project and copy it into the selected folder.

A dialog opens where you can specify the path and name of the video.

Burn project and media to CD/DVD

Use this option to burn the film as well as all associated files to CD or DVD. To do so,
you must have a burner installed on your computer and a blank CD must be inserted.

All media relevant to the project will be compiled and burned to disc.

Even larger projects can be burned straight to disc. The project, if necessary, will be
split up and burned automatically to multiple discs. A restoring program that is burned
to the CD ensures convenient restoration of the backup.

www.magix.com

Menu Reference 41

Open automatically saved project

This option loads an automatically created slideshow backup. This type of automatic
backup gets the file extension MV_ (underscore). This command is only intended for
use in emergencies, for example, if you unintentionally saved your change and wish to
return to the previous version of the movie.

Keyboard shortcut: Alt + O

Burn project (DVD) again

All necessary files, menus, and encoded video files needed to burn a CD/DVD will be
temporarily stored on your hard drive. After your disc is burned, these are not
automatically deleted. Use "Burn disc project (image) again" enables you to burn as
many discs as you would like without having to encode the files again.

In the dialog, choose the image you want. All necessary files are then transferred to
the MAGIX Speed burnR.

Tip: For more information on using MAGIX Speed burnR, read the help file of the
program.

Settings
Project...

This menu entry opens up the Settings for the opened project (view page 56).

Keyboard shortcut: E

Program...

This menu item opens the program settings (view page 56).

Keyboard shortcut: Y

Reset Program Settings to Default...

Use this function to reset all program settings (view page 56) you made in MAGIX
Video easy 4 HD to their original settings.

Exit

Closes MAGIX Video easy 4 HD.

Keyboard shortcut: Alt + F4

42

Edit Menu

Undo

During movie editing you can undo the last changes you made. This way, it's
no problem if you want to try out critical operations. If you don't like the
result, you can always revert to the previous state using "Undo".

Using the arrow buttons you can select individual changes which you would
like to undo.

Keyboard shortcut: Ctrl + Z

Restore

This function undoes the previous "Undo" function.

Using the arrow buttons you can select individual changes which you would
like to undo.

Keyboard shortcut: Ctrl + Y

Cut

This command deletes the selected object and saves it to the clipboard. You can then
use the "Paste" command to copy it into any movie.

Keyboard shortcut: Ctrl + X

Copy

This command copies the selected object to the clipboard. Then you can use the
"Paste" command to use it again.

Keyboard shortcut: Shift + C

Insert

This command inserts the clipboard material at the current position of the start
marker.

Keyboard shortcut: Ctrl + V

Delete

This command deletes the selected object.

Keyboard shortcut: Del

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Menu Reference 43

Split Object

This command cuts a scene at the point where the start marker is
positioned. This way, two free-standing objects are created.

This way you can isolate a part of an object in order to delete it or move it:

1. Place the start marker at the position you want by left clicking in the timeline.

2. Select the video object by clicking on it and click on the cut button.

3. Place the start marker at the end of the part you wish to remove and click on

the cut button again.

4. Select the middle object that was created and press "Del".

5. Pull the object at the back to the front, it should automatically snap into place.

All subsequent objects will be moved along in unison so that no gaps appear.

You can also use this function to apply effects (view page 24) to a certain part of an
object onl

Keyboard shortcut: T

y.

Remove entire background music

Music previously inserted may be removed with this function.

Shortcut: Ctrl + H

Select All

All objects found in the project are selected.

Keyboard shortcut: Ctrl + A

Menu effects

Rotate 90°

Turns an object 90° to the left or to the right.

View duration

Opens a dialog to set the Display duration for photo and title objects (view page 54).

Keyboard shortcut: Ctrl + L

Scene recognition

Calls up the automatic scene recognition, which "cuts up" longer videos into scenes for
storage in the "Takes" directory.

Keyboard shortcut: Shift + Z

44

Video stabilization

Opens the video stabilizer dialog to help you correct shaky footage. Read more on this
topic in "Video stabilization".

Keyboard shortcut: Shift + K

Sound/Image offset

This enables a possible time offset between sound and image to be balanced. A
positive value moves the sound to the back; a negative value moves it forward.

Example: To set the audio to play later than the video, you need to input a negative
value. To hear the audio first, input a positive value.

Keyboard shortcut: Shift + F

Effects Settings

The entries for this submenu are directly available in the effects under "Additional
Actions" in the video object context menus.

Apply to all

The current effects settings will be applied to all objects.

Keyboard shortcut: Shift + A

Apply to all subsequent objects

The current effects settings will be applied to all objects in your movie which lie behind
the selected object.

Keyboard shortcut: Shift + O

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Menu Reference 45

Copy

The current settings will be saved to the clipboard so that they can be applied to other
objects.

Keyboard shortcut: Alt + C

Insert

Applies the effects settings from the clipboard to the selected bject. The settings must
be copied beforehand.

Keyboard shortcut: Alt + P

Reset

This "effect" is not an effect. as such. It disables all applied effects.

Keyboard shortcut: Shift + C

Properties

This function displays all the information about the currently selected objects such as
file name, position on the hard-drive, tempo, etc. The Object Editor also defines the
foreground and background color of every object in the arrangement.

More information is available under Object properties (view page 55).

board shortcut: Ctrl + E

Key

Help Menu

Help

This command is available for almost every feature of the program, and it opens the
"Help" file for the corresponding topic. Use this command to get help on any of
MAGIX Video easy 4 HD's functions.

Keyboard shortcut: F1

Content

Use the command "Content" in the "Help" menu to open the start page of the help file.
You can read through the help file step-by-step and jump to specific sections via the
tree structure on the right hand side.

Open magix.info

Directly from within the program you'll be able to access magix.info, the Multimedia
Community from MAGIX. You'll find answers to all the most frequently asked
questions about MAGIX products and multimedia in general. Were you unable to find
a solution to your particular problem? No problem, just ask the question yourself.

46

Display Tool Tips

Tooltips are small information windows that open up automatically if the mouse
pointer stops briefly on a button or some other area. They provide information about
the function of the button. These information boxes can be switched on or off with this
option.

Keyboard shortcut: Ctrl + Shift + F1

MAGIX Screenshare

This function makes it possible for you to offer assistance to other users directly via
the Internet, or to get help from others. To do this, you have to register MAGIX Video
easy 4 HD first.

Hint: To inform the screensharing guests of exactly what is being shown, it is also a
good idea to telephone or chat simultaneously.

Register as guest of a screen session

1. You have to register as a guest to view a screensharing instance. To do this,

open the menu "Share" and then select "Screen transfer as guest...".

2. Enter the password you received from your host (8-digit session ID).

3. Now click on "Start session". A window will open displaying a smaller version of

your host's screen.

Register as host for a screen transfer

1. If you want to start a screenshare instance yourself, then you have to register

as a host first. To do this, open the menu "Share" and then select "Screen
transfer as host...".

2. In the dialog you can enter a name for the screen session. Your user account

name is used here by default.

3. Now click on "Start session". A small window will now open in the bottom right

corner which displays the status of your screen session. A number will also be
displayed (session ID) which serves as a password for your guests.

4. Start the screenshare instance.

Register online

This option opens the MAGIX homepage for online registration where you can register
yourself as a MAGIX user.

Registration grants you access to the MAGIX support website
http://support.magix.net (see support) where various program updates and help
programs can

be downloaded.

www.magix.com

With the registration form supplied (start menu under "MAGIX Video easy 4 HD ->
Service and support -> Register") you can register via post or fax. Simply print it out,
fill it in, and send it off!

Keyboard shortcut: F12

Menu Reference 47

Online Update

Connects directly to the online update page where you can get the latest version of
your program.

About MAGIX Video easy 4 HD

Displays copyright info and version number of MAGIX Video easy 4 HD.

"Share" menu

Here you will find many options for for quickly and easily publishing your data from the
program on the web. Additionally, data transfer into other programs for specialized
editing, if you have such programs installed, is enabled.

48

Dialog and Interface Reference

Video Monitor

The preview monitor displays a preview of the movie that you are working on at
the moment.

The transport console provides playback controls.

If a clip is selected, the left and right
handles allow the start and end points
to be moved.

During playback, the start and end
points cannot be seen and only the
playback position is displayed.

Displays the playback position. Moving the mouse enables the playback
position to be repositioned. If a video or a photo is selected the position
within this object will be displayed.

To beginning: The playback marker jumps to the beginning of the
movie.

Back: The playback marker moves toward the beginning.

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Dialog and Interface Reference 49

Playback/pause: :Starts playback. Another click stops playback,
and the playback marker remains at the current position.

Forwards: The playback marker moves toward the end.

Edit: The clip is split at the position of the playback marker. This

turns a single clip into two segments.

Position display: The current position of the playback marker is displayed here
in [minutes]:[seconds]:[frames].

Set object

All objects can be edited here individually.

Click an object to display the settings. This
lets you make further changes.

Set up object: Use these settings to adjust the display options.

Brightness: The brightness is not changed linearly so that it is adjusted to normal

human perception. This means that changes in the median brightness range are
stronger than in dark and bright.

50

Contrast: In photo editing, the level of the difference in brightness is referred to as
contrast. If the contrast is increased, then bright areas become brighter and dark areas
darker. In everyday terms, contrast also refers to "brilliance".

Saturation: Refers to the color intensity of an image. A strong increase in saturation
creates unnatural color display. If saturation is reduced completely, then a black and
white image (grayscale) will be produced.

Speed: Once you've specified the object's playback speed, slow and fast motion are
also possible. The video can also be played in reverse.

Hue: The color wheel allows you to color in the image. The further out you place the
point, the stronger the image will be colored in with the respective color.

Automatic color/exposure: The optimum color setting/exposure is calculated
automatically.

Audio: Adjust the volume of the original sound, the audio dubbing and the
background music.

Object: This controls the volume of the original sound.

Background: This controller influences the volume of the background music for the

duration of the selected clip.

Audio Dubbing: Adjust the volume of the audio commentary.

Video effects; titles and text: Select one of these tabs to add an effect, title or

other text to the object.

This can be used to add additional videos, photos, and music files.

Photo Music Movie

A dialog opens for music and photos in which you can select the photos you want to
import. The Wizard for films will open and allow you to import videos. New media is
always attached at the end and can be moved to the desired position with the mouse.

Finish Movie: The Wizard for finishing projects opens to help you export the
video in the desired format or to burn it to disc.

www.magix.com

Title and text

Dialog and Interface Reference 51

Enter the text as you would like to
see it displayed (as the title).
Specify the font type, size, color, and
position of the text. You may also
add an outline and shadows to the
text.
Text can also be animated.
The display duration and fade in/out
duration may also be set.

Clicking the "New Title" button causes the title to be shown in front of the actual
object. This then becomes an independent object.

52

Video effects

Clicking on the "Video effects" button
opens a selection of effect templates.
There is the "Old movie" effect, for
example, which turns your clip into a
movie from the 20s as well as various
movement effects which allow you to
simulate camera pans, "Zoom in" or
"Move left-right", for example.

Try out the different effects to get an
idea of what you can do with them.

• Select an effect and click "Preview".

• If you would like to use the effect, use

your mouse to drag it onto an object.

Since the effects do not change the
original material, you can easily reset
any effect.

• To do so, click "Reset".

Scene recognition

Select the object that you would like to apply scene recognition to, and then open the
menu entry "Scene recognition" in the "Effects" menu.

Scene recognition analyzes the movie according to scene changes, i.e. jumps in
brightness and color distribution on screen. Automatically created "Time stamps" from
digital video devices - (which indicate the time when the device was turned on/off) ­are also detected as scenes.

If you select "Automatic scene recognition" then all of the scene changes that are
detected will be used to create a new scene automatically. If you select "Manual
scene recognition", then you may decide according to what you see for each individual
scene.

This option is helpful, for example, if a camera flash was captured in the source
footage. The flash from the camera would cause a sudden brightness modification
even though there was no actual scene change.

The preview always displays the end of the previous scene and the beginning of the
new scene.

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Dialog and Interface Reference 53

Select "Separate at this position" if the images display different recordings. If the
images do not differ except for the brightness, the scene may have been falsely
recognized, and you can select "Next scene".

Of course, you can jump through scene changes to work on multiple scenes as a unit.
This makes designing the menu, since every scene is displayed as a menu entry, but
since you will not normally want every scene displayed in the menu.

"Cut all additional scenes automatically" ends manual scene recognition, and all
additional detected transitions create a new scene.

The complete analysis must be made only once for each recording, since the resulting
data is stored with the video file. If the scene recognition is performed again with the
same source material, the scene transitions found are immediately displayed. If you
are still not happy with the resulting scene division, simply repeat and correct where
necessary.

Keyboard shortcut: Shift + Z

54

Video stabilization

The video stabilizer reduces unsteady camera motion and helps to smooth recordings.
This feature can be accessed from the context menu of a video object or via the
"Effects" menu.

Functionality

Video stabilization removes undesired picture movement. The motion stabilizer
counteracts unwanted movements by moving the image in the opposite direction. This
produces overlapping edges in the footage that are trimmed automatically and
replaced by black borders which are then removed using a zoom shot. The result: A
smooth, clear image that is only slightly larger than the original.

Application

Activate the motion stabilizer in the "Effects" menu or the context menu for video
objects. You will see the current video object in the preview monitor. First you have to
check the footage for shaky scenes. To do this click on the "Execute stabilization"
button. The video footage will be analyzed. This process requires some time. You can
follow the progress of the analysis in the preview monitor.

Once the analysis is complete, take a look at the suggested correction. You can use
the transport control in the preview area to do this. As a comparison, you can look at
the original footage by unchecking the feature "Preview with video stabilization".

Once you are happy with the final correction click OK.

Analysis Area: Here you can choose the area of the footage that will be analyzed. The
center of the image is preset. If shaking occurs in another area (e. g. in a foreground
element), relocate the analysis area. To do this, simply use the mouse to drag the area
over the shaky part of the image. The smaller the area, the quicker the analysis will be
calculated. If you change analysis areas, a new analysis of the footage must be
performed.

To undo the stabilization open the dialog again and select "Remove stabilization"

Keyboard shortcut: Shift + K

Display duration...

Enter the display duration for the current photo here in [Minutes]:[Seconds]:[Frames].

Apply to all: The settings are applied to every photo in the current movie. The settings
will not be applied to photos in additional movies in the project.

Keyboard shortcut: Ctrl + L

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Dialog and Interface Reference 55

Clean-up Wizard

The Clean-up Wizard helps you delete disc projects from your hard drive, including all
movies and the audio, video, and picture files used in them. Use this function to free up
disk space for future projects.

Caution: If the files you used in the movie have also been used in other movies (like
trailers, opening music, etc.), then you should make backup copies of these files
beforehand.

Delete certain files

Choose this option if you would like to select certain files for deletion. In the file
selection dialog, you can select the desired files. In the next step the Clean-up Wizard
automatically look for other files which belong to your selection. Using this method
you can delete an entire movie with all of its accompanying media, help, project, and
backup files. Before they are deleted, you receive relevant information in a dialog and a
confirmation request.

Search and delete unnecessary files

Choose this option if you would like to find unnecessary files or free up some space on
your hard drive. The Clean-Up Wizard then automatically looks for extraneous files
created during use of MAGIX Video easy 4 HD. Before they are deleted, you receive
relevant information in a dialog and a confirmation request.

Object properties

This function displays all the information about the currently selected objects such as
file name, and its location on the hard-drive etc. Depending on the type of object, the
elements displayed will vary.

General information

Here you can change the name of the selected object. Additional information is also
displayed about which file the selected object points to.

Interlace/Deinterlace (only for video objects)

The tab "Interlace/Deinterlace" lets you specify the interlace editing of the video
material.

Interlace properties: Normally, MAGIX Video easy 4 HD automatically makes suitable
settings for this. Adjustments still need to be made to faulty video footage. If playback

56

of the exported movie is very jittery, if flickering occurs, or if some effects do not look
how they should, you can reverse the source material frames.

Deinterlace options: Normally, the setting "Automatic interlace processing" does not
have to be changed. The frames are processed separately and passed to the encoder
when exported. If necessary, MAGIX Video easy 4 HD will perform high-quality
interlacing. If "No interlace processing" is set, then it is assumed that the source
material contains full frames.

For more information on interlacing, please see "Interlace" (view page 73).

board shortcut: Ctrl + E

Key

Project settings

Description: Enter your project's name here. This name will be used as a preset title
for the disc you have to burn.

Video settings: Specify the format and ratio for the entire project. The format specified
will be set as the default size during export.

Keyboard shortcut: E

Program settings

Project folder: This is the folder where MAGIX Video easy 4 HD will normally save all
projects and imported videos. When a project is created, a correspondingly named
subfolder is added to help keep things clearly laid out.

Video standard: PAL is used in Europe, the US and Japan use NTSC. This setting
should not be changed.

Preview Quality: If the preview starts to judder its resolution will be automatically
reduced. This does not affect the quality of the final video. If you don't want it to be
automatic you can untick the box and decide yourself whether you prefer full
resolution or smooth playback in reduced quality (resolution).

AVCHD Export: If your motherboard/graphics card is new enough MAGIX Video easy
4 HD will automatically use the graphics card's processors to calculate compression
when exporting HD videos. If this causes problems you can deactivate it here.

Shortcut: Y

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Dialog and Interface Reference 57

Video Mode
Compatibility Mode (Video for Windows)

This mode works on all systems. Activate this mode if there are problems with
playback.

Hardware Acceleration (Direct 3D)

This mode offers extreme increase in speed by calculating mixing, effects, and various
transitions the the graphics card directly. Depending on the graphics card,
performance can increase by 300%. The graphics card will not be used during export.

Note! To use this mode the graphics card must possess at least 128 MB memory.
You will need to install Direct 3D 9, or higher, and the graphics card driver must
support "High Level Pixel Shader Language 2.0". MAGIX Video easy 4 HD checks
the corresponding properties when this mode is selected and switches it off if
necessary.

Alternative Mode 1 (Mixer Overlay)

This mode performs hardware-based deinterlacing for output onto a PC screen or a
projector, whereby the playback quality is significantly better than with interlaced
analog video recordings.

Alternative Mode 2 (Video Mixing Renderer 9)

This mode uses the hardware de-interlacing function of modern graphics cards
together with DirectX 9. Make sure that you are using the most recent version of your
graphics card driver, which must be compatible with DirectX 9 to function properly.
This mode is only superior to "Overlay Mixer" mode with a limited number of graphics
card models.

Fade in/out time for background: You can set the length of the fade in/out time for
the background audio. The values are given in milliseconds (ms).

Reactivate hint dialogs

Once installed, MAGIX Video easy 4 HD displays a number of safety queries and
instructions at various points in the program. These may be switched off by clicking
the small box at the bottom that says "Don't show this message again". To display
these warning messages again, select the "Reactivate hint dialogs" option.

58

Activate codec

Codecs are small computer programs that compress data to save disk space. Without
the right codec you can neither produce nor play back a compressed video file. To use
the most important codecs, namely: MPEG-2, MPEG-4 and DolbyDigital, you will have
to activate the codec (free of charge). The corresponding activation dialog will appear
automatically when the codec is used for the first time, e.g. when a DVD is burned and
the MPEG-2 codec is used.

Order activation code online
In the dialog click "Order online" (Field 1). MAGIX Video easy 4 HD will download the
appropriate codec.

Note: Activation of the codec checks the registration data as required. Activation of
the codec only functions if your version of the program has already been registered in
your name. If you haven't registered MAGIX Video easy 4 HD, then you can do this
at any time.

Order activation code in the Service Center
Use this option to conduct activation from a different computer which has Internet
access.
Order activation code via telephone
The telephone number and necessary details you will need to call to receive activation
by telephone are displayed here.

Order activation code via post/fax
After clicking "Order via post/fax" (field 2), your PC code will appear. Click on
"Continue to order form" to transfer your PC code automatically to the post/fax form.
Now send the completed form as a print out to the address/fax no. mentioned. Your
activation code will be sent to you in just a few days via post or fax. It can also be sent
by mail if an email address is stated.

Enter activation code
After your personal activation code is received, restart the corresponding export or
import function, to view the activation dialog again. Enter activation code there to
continue.

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If you still have questions 59

If you still have questions

Tips for program help

The "Help" file features hints on how to use the program and additional information.
Many important terms are indicated in the text in italics and an explanation to them is
reached by clicking on them.

Context help: Press the "F1" key at any point in the opened program and the help file
will open with the matching topic (context help).

Search function: Use the search function to find out information about specific words.
Enter either the individual word or use logical operators (OR, AND, NEAR) to refine
your search if you have several search words.

• "OR" (between two words): All topics which contain both words or one of the

words will be listed.

• "AND" (between two words): Only those topics will be listed which contain both

words.

• "NEAR" (between two words): Only those topics will be listed which contain both

words. A maximum of six other words may be added between the search terms.

• "NOT" (before a word): Topics which contain this word will not be listed.

Print: Use the help program's print function to make a printout of individual topics or
entire sections. The print button is located at the top of the help window in the toolbar.

60

Glossary

A

Aliasing

Aliasing, or alias effects, are mistakes that appear during digital scanning of sounds,
videos or images when the sample frequency (in audio editing) or resolution (in video
editing) used are too low.

ATN:

This abbreviation stands for "Absolute Track Number". Which is the actual time code
of DV and HDV recordings recorded using the helical scan method.

Audio

This is then referred to as "audio" when the sound signal is saved directly as such on
the PC. The actual sound is recorded or played back here.

audioid

audioid is a process used to determine the title and artist name base on musical
properties. An Internet connection is required to access the audioid database.

AVCHD

Stands for "Advanced Video Codec Definition". It is an HD format for video cameras
which has been developed by Panasonic and SONY. In comparison to the HDV format,
a meaningful quality improvement can be seen here.

®

For the video recording MPEG 4 AVC/H.264, and for audio recording Dolby
or Linear PCM are used. The maximum bit rate is 25 Megabits/sec.

AVI

The AVI format (Audio Video Interleaved) isn't actually a proper video format! Rather,
it is a so-called "container" for which the conventions for transferring audio and video
files to the program are only loosely defined. More in this topic can be found in
General notes on AVI videos.

Digital

B

Backup disc

Copying of files to a different file storage medium to secure these files is called backing
up, or creating a backup.

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Glossary 61

Browser

A browser (also known as web browser, or Internet browser) is a computer program
that displays websites. The best-known browsers are Internet Explorer, Firefox, Safari,
and Opera.

Button

Refers to an element of the graphic user interface of a program. The button initiates an
action in the program via left mouse click.

Button

Refers to an element of the graphic user interface of a program. The button initiates an
action in the program via left mouse click.

C

Cache

Simply stated, this is a temporary folder where frequently accessed files are saved so
that they can be quickly launched while you are working.

CC

CC stands for "Connectivity Co-ordination" and describes how the change of a domain
name from one provider to another occurs (domain transfer).

Clip level

Signifies the volume level at which the recorded signal is overmodulated, or "clipped".

Clipboard

The clipboard is used to temporarily store objects during execution of commands like
"copy" and "cut".

Clipboard

The clipboard is used to temporarily store objects during execution of commands like
"copy" and "cut".

Compatible

Different devices are compatible with each other if they operate together without any
errors occurring.

Context menu

Context menu can be reached by right clicking on a selected object. It offers functions
which are available and can be expected in the given context.

Copyright

Protection of intellectual and creative property against unauthorized copying.

62

Copyright

Protection of intellectual and creative property against unauthorized copying.

CPU

Central processing unit: The name for the main processor of the computer (CPU).
Modern computers have even two or more processors, or one processor with several
cores.

Crossfade

Transitions, crossfades. Can be used to fade between objects.

D

Dialog

A dialog opens in a new window and lets the user interact with the program. This
means that the dialog can present information to the user and/or expects to receive
input from the user.

A dialog can contain various user elements which can be manipulated by a simple
mouse click. Keyboard entries are also possible.

Disc project

A "Disc project" includes everything that you want to put on your CD and DVD.

This normally contains one or more movies and includes a menu structure/menu
design which allows you to choose a movie later on the CD or DVD.

Disc types

The disc types determines the format and medium (CD, DVD, Blu-ray disc, etc.) to
which the current project will be burned.

DNS

The abbreviation DNS stands for Domain Name Service and refers to a provider of
Internet services that registers domain names for customers.

Domain

A domain is the website's Internet address. It consists of the name of the Internet
protocol (usually http://), the computer or network name (such as www), the second­level domain (such as magix), and the top level domain (like .com, .net).

Altogether we have: protocol://networkname.second-level-domain.top-level-domain
(such as "http://www.magix.com").

Domains are allocated by a country's so-called NIC (Network Information Center). In
Germany the DENIC is responsible for the release of domains.

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Glossary 63

Domain transfer

See CC. If you already have a domain, you can move it from your previous provider to
another provider.

Downmix

A method developed for audio technology to turn a Surround Sound recording into a
version with fewer channels. Most often (as is the case with MAGIX Video easy 4
HD) this will be a stereo version.

Drag & drop

Enables files and objects to be moved freely between various applications (or within
an application) by dragging the object and letting it drop using the mouse cursor.

F

Fader

Used for visual input of values. Similar to volume control on a mixing board, you can
control various parameters by sliding the fader. A very common example for this is the
zoom slider that lets you see a picture in more detail.

Field

A half-image, two of which combine to produce a frame (see interlace).

Flip menu

Drop down menus create menus consisting of lists of selectable choices. They look
very similar to text input fields, but have a button with a downward-pointing symbol
on the right-hand side.

Frame

A frame is a single image from a video sequence which also called a full image.

A PAL video contains 25 frames per second; NTSC contains 29.97 frames.

H

Handles

Handles are the five little rectangles at the edges of selected objects. All curve points
can be moved by holding down the left mouse button.

Length handles: Bottom right and bottom left. You can use them to change the length
of an object.

Fade handles: Top right and top left. These can be used to softly fade an object in or
out.

64

Volume/Brightness handle: Above-center. You can use it to adjust the volume or the
brightness.

Hard disk

Storage medium with the largest storage capacity where the operating system(s),
programs, and files are saved. A hard disk can be built into the computer, but there are
also external hard disks which can be used with different computers via a USB
connection (portable drives or external hard disk).

Hard disk drive

Storage medium with the largest storage capacity where the operating system(s),
programs, and files are saved. A hard disk can be built into the computer, but there are
also external hard disks which can be used with different computers via a USB
connection (portable drives or external hard disk).

Hardware

The all-encompassing name for all internal components of a computer. For example
hard disk, graphics card, mainboard, etc. External peripheral devices are also
considered hardware, i.e. printer, scanner, monitor, etc. The synchronization of single
hardware components is coordinated by the software.

HDD

Storage medium with the largest storage capacity where the operating system(s),
programs, and files are saved. A hard disk can be built into the computer, but there are
also external hard disks which can be used with different computers via a USB
connection (portable drives or external hard disk).

HDTV

This acronym stands for "High Definition Television.

HTTP

Stands for Hyper Text Transfer Protocol and is used for transferring websites onto the
Internet (from web server to the browser). For this reason, the abbreviation http://
always comes before the Internet address. This is automatically inserted and does not
have to be entered when entering the Internet address.

Hyperlink

Hyperlinks (or in short "links") are references to other websites/online documents (or
other computer networks). They build the base of the World Wide Web (WWW) as it
is only via these hyperlinks that networking or interlinking between the billions of
website out there is actually possible.

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Glossary 65

I

ID3 tags

ID3 tags contain title information that can be added to a music title. This includes the
title, artist, album, as well as the genre, year of release, and other criteria that can help
searching through a database. The database is created using this information.

Info: Title information will only be saved for MP3s in the so-called ID3 tags (Identify
an MP3), but other formats offer similar possibilities, like "Vorbis comment" for the
OGG Vorbis format, for example.

Image

An image is a representation of a CD, DVD, hard drive, or another storage medium
that is saved as a file.

The difference from a copy or backup is that an image contains information about the
structure of the original storage medium, and not just individual files. This enables
01:01 copies of complete storage media to be created.

Caution! Copyright laws forbid copying of commercial CDs/DVDs, and for this
reason, this process can be prohibited by copy protection.

IMAP

Stands for Internet Message Access Protocol and is an advanced process of receiving
emails.

Interlace

Describes the creation of a full image from 2 half-images (fields).

In this process, even and odd lines are alternately assigned to one of the two fields.

The human eye perceives both of the projected half-images as a single full image, so
that despite the slow image repetition rate (25 Hz for PAL, 29.97 for NTSC) a
subjectively fluid image is seen.

Intro

"Intro" means the introduction or opening credits of a movie.

J

jpx

A format developed by MAGIX which is used for photo editing. It enables free
experimentation with effects without altering the original file. The effects settings are
also displayed when the photos are opened using a different MAGIX program.

66

M

Menu

Menus contain practically all function of a program. They can be opened using a
simple mouse click on the corresponding menu. Keyboard shortcuts, if available, are
also found at the end of menu entries.

The graphical surface of a CD/DVD will also be represented as a menu.

Menu bar

Almost every program has a menu bar. It can normally be found underneath the title
line of the program. A simple mouse click opens a corresponding menu.

MIDI

MIDI files do not contain the actual sounds like audio files, but only the note control
information which can be interpreted during playback by the synthesizer chip on the
sound card or an external synthesizer.

Motherboard

This is the centerpiece of hardware components of a computer. All other hardware
components like CPU, RAM, hard disk, additional drives, graphics cards, as well as
other cards for specialized uses are connected to the motherboard.

Motherboard

This is the centerpiece of hardware components of a computer. All other hardware
components like CPU, RAM, hard disk, additional drives, graphics cards, as well as
other cards for specialized uses are connected to the motherboard.

Motherboard

This is the centerpiece of hardware components of a computer. All other hardware
components like CPU, RAM, hard disk, additional drives, graphics cards, as well as
other cards for specialized uses are connected to the motherboard.

MP3

MP3 (actually MPEG-1 layer 3) is currently the most important standard for
compressing audio files.

MPEG

MPEG is short for "Moving Picture Experts Group" and refers to a committee
concerned with the standardization of video and audio data compression as well as
container formats.

MS audio

A process developed by Microsoft for compressing audio files with properties similar
to those of MP3.

www.magix.com

MTC

MTC stands for MIDI Time Code and it transmits the exact playback position via
MIDI. In this way, programs and devices can be synchronized with each other.

Glossary 67

N

Noise Sample

Sample of a noise that is to be removed

NTSC (USA, Japan)

NTSC stands for "National Television Systems Committee". This is a US institution
that defined the first color carrier system for TV which is now used in most of America
and some East Asian countries.

The image repetition rate for NTSC is 29.97 Hz.

Numeric keypad

Also known as the numpad, or the number block.

O

Offset

With an offset of 60:00:00 (1 hour) you can, for example synchronize a tape whose
time code that starts at 1 hour, MAGIX Video easy 4 HD however, still starts the tape
beginning at 0.

OGG VORBIS

This is a new, royalty-free format with similar properties to MP3.

P

PAL (Europe)

Phase Alternating Line, or PAL, is a process for color transmission for analog TV that is
primarily used in Europe, but also in Australia, South America, and many African and
Asian countries.

The image repetition rate for PAL is 25 Hz.

Play marker

The play marker is a red vertical line which moves from left to right during playback. It
indicates the current play position.

Playlist

Arrange your songs in playlists from various sources in different formats and in
whatever way you like, sometimes updated daily.

68

Important: Playlists are only links to songs on your hard drive or in your CD drive.

When you add a song to your playlist whose real source is a CD in your computer's
drive, the song will no longer be playable when the CD is removed from the drive.

Similarly, when you move a folder on your hard drive, the playlist will no longer be able
to play the song, since the link is no longer valid.

For the latter, however, there is a simple solution: If you know where the song has
been saved, then you can redefine the path. A corresponding dialog window is
provided for this purpose. You can reset the path by navigating through the Explorer
folders. The playlist is now correct once again.

Plug-in

Plug-ins are additional programs that expand the functionality of the main program.
They are inserted into the main program.

POP3

Stands for Post Office Protocol (version 3) and is used in standard email programs for
receiving email (for example, Outlook Express). POP3 enables email to be collected by
the provider's email server and loaded into your email program.

Provider

A provider or ISP (Internet Service Provider) offers Internet services like webhosting or
domains (DNS). In relation to the MAGIX Website Service, MAGIX is the provider.

R

RAM (Random Access Memory)

This is a hardware component of a computer. RAM is needed to temporarily save files.
This type of storage is erased when the computer is shut down or reset. The larger this
storage is, the faster you can work with programs to change and save files.

Ratio:

The aspect ratio is the ratio between the height and width of a rectangle. In practice
these are photos, screens or projection screens. This method can also be used to
describe the aspect ratio of pixels.

Here are some examples of typical aspect ratios: at home 4:3, 16:9 (typical for TV
sets), or 16:10 (widescreen flat screens, widescreen notebooks), 3:2 for 35 mm films
and photos. In cinemas you mostly find 1.85:1

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Glossary 69

Red Book

Specific standards have been established for the different CD types in order to unify
their data structure and to make them compatible with the different CD drives. Their
names refer to the color of the books where these standards were written.

The term "Red Book" is common language for the Compact Disc Audio Standard. The
requirements listed here have to be observed for industrial CP production. Audio CD
players only read CDs created according to the Red Book format. It is therefore
necessary to first convert PC files into this format before writing them onto an audio
disc compatible with any audio CD player.

Restore

Restoration of files originating from a backup will be called "Restoring".

S

Scene

Freely definable section of a video in MAGIX Video easy 4 HD.

In general, a scene is a segment of a film that is a product of various settings and
conveys a certain action.

Screenshot

A screenshot is an image composed of all visible screen elements (messages, open
dialogs, etc.) at a certain time. By pressing the "Print screen" key on the keyboard, this
image is saved into the clipboard. Next, open a program which can edit images and
select "Insert" (shortcut "Ctrl+V") in a new document to add the screenshot for editing
and saving.

Note: Press "Alt + Print screen" on the keyboard to capture the active window only.

Slider

Used for visual input of values. Similar to volume control on a mixing board, you can
control various parameters by sliding the fader. A very common example for this is the
zoom slider that lets you see a picture in more detail.

SMTP

Stands for Simple Mail Transfer Protocol and enables the exchange of emails across
computer networks.

Software

The name for all non-physical functional components of a computer. This primarily
includes computer programs and files that are meant to be used by computer
programs.

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Storyboard mode

The Storyboard mode is the default edit screen view. This view offers an easy,
streamlined interface to simplify the editing process. The alternative Timeline mode
offers a more detailed interface for more extensive editing and scene arrangements,
the scene overview mode offers a complete overview of all scenes on a small scale.
You can toggle between the three view modes using the Tab key.

Submenu

Besides normal entries, a menu can contain submenus that offer additional functions.
This makes menus more comprehensive.

Super Video CD (SVCD)

The Super Video CD (SVCD) is a technological advancement of the video CD. SVCDs
are also like VCD-specified CD-ROMs which can be played using either a Super Video
CD player (connected to the television), or directly with the CD-ROM drive of a
computer. Many DVD players can also play SVCDs. MPEG-2 and the increase of the
data transfer rate makes it hard to tell videos from videos in DVD quality apart.

Resolution: SVCDs use the better MPEG-2 encoder in a standardized resolution of
480 x 576 (PAL). The MPEG-2 format offers a maximum resolution of up to 720 x
576 points and improved compression methods characterized by excellent image
definition and homogeneity.

Hard disk capacity: An average 90-minute movie must be spread across 3 CDs. On
one SVCD you can get about 30 minutes of good-quality movie.

Encoder setting: Compared to the VCD with 1.3, the data transfer rate is doubled to

2.6 Mbit/s.

MPEG-2 format introduces the so-called variable bit rate (VBR). In contrast to the
constant bit rate (CBR) of the MPEG-1 encoders, this encoder has the option of using
more bits for movement-intensive sections, as well as saving bits if picture content
remains the same.

T

Toolbar

All basic functions of the corresponding program can be found here. The
corresponding functions can be called up via mouse click.

Toolbar

Here you will find small buttons that provide a function when clicked. For example, you
can cut out a selected object by clicking on the scissors.

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Glossary 71

Top-level domain

Top-level domains (TLD) are always those separated by a dot at the end of an Internet
address (for example, "http://www.magix.com" < here, .com is the top-level domain).
Among these are also country top-level domains, such as .co.uk, .us, .de as well as so­called generic top-level domains like .net, .org, .biz, and so on.

Traffic

Traffic (data transmission) occurs within your MAGIX Website Service as soon as
data is transferred across the Internet: for example, when uploading or downloading
files to your website or when someone else opens your website.

U

Universal Plug & Play; UPnP

Universal Plug ‘n’ Play (UPnP) is a network protocol which enables data exchange
between different devices (PCs, hi-fi systems, video cameras, PDAs, and webservers).
UPnP allows various devices to participate in network-wide communication, i.e. the
initialization of functions and other device functions. Long-winded configuring or
installing of drivers is not required as the devices can handle their own functions and
data sources by themselves. Find out more at www.upnp.org.

Hint: To work with UPnP you have to activate it first. This can be found under
"Options" ("Y" -> UPnP).

URL

URL stands for Uniform Resource Locator and describes where a source can be found
online (for example, a website). The address or the path to the storage location of a
file on your computer is known as a URL. Often the term URL is used as a term for the
domain. The URL for the MAGIX website is: http://www.magix.co.uk

V

VirtualDub plug-in

Plug-ins are additional programs that expand the functionality of the main program.
They are inserted into the main program.

VirtualDub plug-ins are also referred to "VirtualDub filters" and have the "VDF" file
extension. You can use them to apply additional video effects to video objects.

VST and DirectX plug-ins

Plug-ins are additional programs that expand the functionality of the main program.
They are inserted into the main program.

Two standards exist for audio editing: VST (Steinberg) and DirectX (Microsoft). VST
has asserted itself stronger in the current market.

72

W

WAV

Wave (*.WAV) is a standard uncompressed audio format.

Wave

Wave (*.WAV) is a standard uncompressed audio format.

Wave file

Wave (*.WAV) is a standard uncompressed audio format.

Webhosting

This means that an Internet Service Provider makes domains and webspace available
to its customers. With the MAGIX Website Service, MAGIX provides webhosting to
its customers.

Webmail

Webmail enables the customer to view and receive the contents of their email inbox
without having to install email software on their computer. Customers of the MAGIX
Website Service can use MAGIX Webmail for this.

Webmaster

A webmaster is responsible for the administration and maintenance of a website.
Often, the webmaster is also the owner of the website as well as the domain that
belongs to it. Once you have registered a domain in the MAGIX Website Service, an
email account will automatically be set up, for example:
"mailto:[e-mail]".

Webserver

Webserver refers to the computer on which your host saves your website's pages and
which makes your pages accessible on the Internet 24-hours a day.

WMA

A process developed by Microsoft for compressing audio files with properties similar
to those of MP3.

World Wide Web (WWW)

WWW stands for "World Wide Web" and is the most used service of the Internet. On
the WWW, web browsers (for example, Internet Explorer) are used to display
information via websites. The process is colloquially called "Surfing the Internet".

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Annex: Digital Video and Data Storage 73

Annex: Digital Video and Data Storage

MPEG Compression

MPEG means "Moving Picture Experts Group" and defines a workgroup which
cooperates with the International Standards Organization (ISO) as well as the
international Electro Technical Commission (ETC) to develop standards for video and
audio coding.

Generally, the graphic data rate of the digital video standard is 167 megabits per
second, which, when not compressed, requires a far higher storage capacity than a
DVD can offer. A one-sided DVD 5 with 4.7 GB storage capacity is enough for 4
Minutes. For this reason, the available pictorial material must be effectively
compressed – a function which is achieved with the MPEG procedure.

This procedure is based on the simple fact that up to 96% of digital video data
consists of repetition and can be compressed without visible degradation of the
pictorial quality.

Each MPEG compression is, however, a data reduction and as such connected with
information loss. If the video consists of very extensive details, or if the content
changes very fast, then the picture may blur (dependent on the strength of the
compression and the quality of the encoder).

Errors can also result from so-called compression artifacts such as small color defects
or images that are too dark.

At average compression rates under 3 megabits per second it is probable that you will
notice reduced quality. At rates around 6 megabit per second the degradation in
quality becomes almost invisible.

Interlace

For historical reasons, pictures in a movie are always recorded and transmitted in the
form of two fields; first the lines with even numbers and then those with odd numbers.
These fields are alternatively displayed with double the frame rate. The (lazy) eye of
the viewer or the processing of the TV tube puts the two frames together to form one.

The output image First field Second field

74

You normally don’t have to worry about field processing. The video material goes
through the entire processing chain as fields and is exported again as fields or burned
onto DVD or shown on TV when played back on a DVD as a full picture. Only in
certain rare conditions is it necessary to go deeper into this process. Two problems
can occur:

1. Interlace artifacts

To be displayed on a computer monitor (during recording, in your TV/VCR, and in the
arranger during editing), the two fields must be combined to form a full screen.

These two fields are not the same, since two fields are created during the recording
between which a 1/50 of a second gap is evident. Moving objects can therefore
produce artifacts on vertical edges.

Typical interlacing errors

You can use so-called de-interlacing to avoid this type of artifact. De-interlacing places
a picture in between the two fields (interpolated). If you want to create stationary
pictures from movies, then you should definitely use a de-interlace filter.

In the system settings ("File" menu -> Program settings) you can set the preview
monitor display to use hardware de-interlacing during video recordings for the video
recorder and for display in the arranger.

2. Incorrect field rate

If you move around the series of fields in a movie data stream, then you will see strong
jitter and flicker effects. Picture objects move in a backward movement – two steps
forwards, one back – since a delayed field is shown before the previous one. This can
happen in the processing chain if you export video material improperly with the wrong
field order and then import it into different material. We use MXV or MPEG "Top field
first" format for all analog recordings ("odd" in other programs).

DV-AVI on the other hand is saved with “Bottom Field First”.

You can correct the field series for each video object in its object settings. See: "Menu

-> Effects -> Object properties"

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Annex: Digital Video and Data Storage 75

Digital Versatile Disc (DVD)

Quality

Featuring a resolution of 720 x 576 (PAL) and encoded with MPEG-2, 25 frames per
second provides very good results.

Writable data storage formats

The recordable DVD market is currently split into three types: "DVD-RAM",
"DVD+RW", and "DVD-RW".

DVD-R/+R: This medium may only be written to once. The DVD-R may be specified
with file structures for DVD video, DVD audio, or DVD-ROM.

DVD +RW: +RW drives allow re-writable DVDs to be created which may be read by
almost any commercial DVD-ROM or DVD player. The companies involved are mainly
Philips, Sony, HEWLETT PACKARD (as well as Ricoh, Yamaha and Mitsubishi).

DVD-RW: This is a write/erase DVD technology promoted by Pioneer and Sharp. This
format was developed by the Pioneer company and should be compatible with existing
DVD players.

DVD-RAM: DVD-RAM technology is based on either Phase Change, MOs, or hard
disks, etc. and is now almost 100% incompatible with all available players.

Due to the small storage capacity and incompatibility with DVD players, setting on
this standard is not recommended.

Note: MAGIX Video easy 4 HD supports DVD±R and DVD±RW, but not DVD-
RAM.

Blank discs: Single-sided recordable blank discs featuring a capacity of 4.7 GB and a
duration of approx. 2 hours.

AVCHD disc

Use this format to create a high-resolution video. You can burn Blu-ray (BD-R/RE)
blanks as well as conventional DVD±R/RWs. In contrast to Blu-ray Discs (view page

76), MPEG-4/AVC codec is applied as the vide
at a comparable image quality.

Compatibility

AVCHD disc on Blu-ray blank: Since this is a BD-conformant format, the disc created
can be played back in any conventional Blu-ray player. Playback problems can almost
always be traced to incompatibilities between Blu-ray blanks and Blu-ray players. In

o format, which requires less memory

76

this case, consult the instructions for your Blu-ray player or ask the manufacturer
which blanks are compatible with the device.

AVCHD disc on DVD blank: The DVDs created with AVCHD video are not supported
by all Blu-ray players. The behavior of the devices is quite different. Normal DVD
players cannot replay AVCHD discs, since the AVC format is not supported.

Blu-ray Disc

Since early 2008, Blu-ray Discs are viewed as successors to DVDs and offer especially
high storage capacity of up to 27 GB in a single layer (double-layer up to 54 GB) with
very few write errors.

The term Blu-ray Disc comes from the blue color of the laser. Because a color cannot
be registered as a trademark, the letter "e" was removed from the word "blue".

The high storage capacity of the Blu-ray Disc suits high definition videos and
slideshows in high quality perfectly, since these are characterized by large file sizes
(depending on material approximately 40 MB/sec) and very high memory use. The
MPEG-2 codec is used to create video.

Companies that were involved in developing Blu-ray technology have united
themselves into the Blu-ray Disc Association (BDA).

Blu-ray Discs come in three varieties:

• Only readable BD ROM (comparable to DVD video),

• rewritable BD-RE (comparable to DVD±RW or DVD-RAM),

• and as a disc that can be written to only once BD-R (comparable to DVD±R).

www.magix.com

Index 77

Index

A

About MAGIX Video easy 4 HD ...........................................................................................47

Activate codec............................................................................................................................58

Add background music ............................................................................................................25

Aliasing........................................................................................................................................ 60

Alternative Mode 1 (Mixer Overlay) .................................................................................... 57

Alternative Mode 2 (Video Mixing Renderer 9)............................................................... 57

Annex: Digital Video and Data Storage............................................................................... 73

Apply effects....................................................................................................................... 24, 43

Apply to all ................................................................................................................................. 44

Apply to all subsequent objects............................................................................................ 44

Archive project on computer/DVD...................................................................................... 37

ATN:............................................................................................................................................. 60

Audio............................................................................................................................................ 60

Audio recording......................................................................................................................... 40

audioid ......................................................................................................................................... 60

Automatic movie editing ..................................................................................................23, 38

AVCHD ....................................................................................................................................... 60

AVCHD disc.........................................................................................................................30, 75

AVI................................................................................................................................................ 60

B

Background Audio Trimming..................................................................................................26

Backup copy............................................................................................................................... 40

Backup disc................................................................................................................................. 60

Blu-ray Disc...................................................................................................................30, 75, 76

Browser..........................................................................................................................................61

Burn project (DVD) again ........................................................................................................41

Burn project and media to CD/DVD................................................................................... 40

Burn several movies to one disc. ...........................................................................................34

Burn to disc/Save to SD card .................................................................................................30

Button ............................................................................................................................................61

C

Cache .............................................................................................................................................61

Catooh – the Online Content Library............................................................................. 10, 39

CC ...................................................................................................................................................61

Change the volume ...................................................................................................................27

Clean-up Wizard.................................................................................................................38, 55

Clip level........................................................................................................................................61

Clipboard.......................................................................................................................................61

Compatibility Mode (Video for Windows).........................................................................57

Compatible ...................................................................................................................................61

78

Connect camera/AVCHD camera...................................................................................14, 17

Content ........................................................................................................................................45

Context menu..............................................................................................................................61

Copy.......................................................................................................................................42, 45

Copy project and media into folder......................................................................................40

Copyright.......................................................................................................................... 2, 61, 62

CPU ............................................................................................................................................... 62

Crossfade..................................................................................................................................... 62

Customer service..........................................................................................................................8

Cut................................................................................................................................................. 42

Cut an Object ......................................................................................................................22, 25

D

Delete ...........................................................................................................................................42

Design Disc Menu...................................................................................................................... 31

Dialog............................................................................................................................................ 62

Dialog and Interface Reference..............................................................................................48

Digital Versatile Disc (DVD)...........................................................................................30, 75

Disc project................................................................................................................................. 62

Disc types.................................................................................................................................... 62

Display duration..................................................................................................................43, 54

Display Tool Tips.......................................................................................................................46

DNS............................................................................................................................................... 62

Domain......................................................................................................................................... 62

Domain transfer......................................................................................................................... 63

Downmix .....................................................................................................................................63

Drag & drop ................................................................................................................................63

E

Edit Menu ....................................................................................................................................42

Edit Video ...............................................................................................................................12, 21

Editing music or comments.................................................................................................... 27

Effects Settings ..........................................................................................................................44

Encoder settings ........................................................................................................................ 33

Exit..................................................................................................................................................41

Export to a mobile device........................................................................................................ 36

F

Fader ............................................................................................................................................. 63

Features ..........................................................................................................................................4

Field............................................................................................................................................... 63

File Menu..................................................................................................................................... 38

Finish movie........................................................................................................................ 30, 40

Finish Project ..............................................................................................................................40

Flip menu .....................................................................................................................................63

Format settings/drivers............................................................................................................19

Frame............................................................................................................................................ 63

www.magix.com

Index 79

H

Handles.........................................................................................................................................63

Hard disk......................................................................................................................................64

Hard disk drive............................................................................................................................64

Hardware .....................................................................................................................................64

Hardware Acceleration (Direct 3D)..................................................................................... 57

HDD ..............................................................................................................................................64

HDTV............................................................................................................................................64

Help ...............................................................................................................................................45

Help Menu...................................................................................................................................45

HTTP .............................................................................................................................................64

Hyperlink......................................................................................................................................64

I

ID3 tags ........................................................................................................................................65

If you still have questions ........................................................................................................59

Image ............................................................................................................................................65

IMAP .............................................................................................................................................65

Import from analog sources (e.g. video recorder).............................................................17

Import video.................................................................................................................................13

Import video from a digital camera........................................................................................17

Import video from digital camcorders...................................................................................14

Import videos or photos from a camera / AVCHD camera............................................15

Import... ........................................................................................................................................39

Insert ..................................................................................................................................... 42, 45

Insert additional images/videos ............................................................................................ 29

Insert Title....................................................................................................................................28

Insert Transitions.......................................................................................................................29

Inserting audio commentary...................................................................................................26

Interlace..........................................................................................................................56, 65, 73

Internet......................................................................................................................................... 39

Intro...............................................................................................................................................65

J

jpx ..................................................................................................................................................65

L

Last projects accessed .............................................................................................................38

M

MAGIX News Center..................................................................................................................11

MAGIX Online Album....................................................................................................... 10, 39

MAGIX Online World............................................................................................................... 10

MAGIX Screenshare .................................................................................................................46

80

MAGIX Website Maker............................................................................................................10

Menu.............................................................................................................................................66

Menu bar .....................................................................................................................................66

Menu effects............................................................................................................................... 43

Menu entry properties ............................................................................................................. 32

Menu Reference......................................................................................................................... 38

MIDI.............................................................................................................................................. 66

MiniDV/HDV cameras - transferring scenes..................................................................... 16

Motherboard...............................................................................................................................66

MP3............................................................................................................................................... 66

MPEG............................................................................................................................................ 66

MPEG Compression.................................................................................................................. 73

MS audio...................................................................................................................................... 66

MTC.............................................................................................................................................. 67

N

New............................................................................................................................................... 38

Noise Sample.............................................................................................................................. 67

NTSC (USA, Japan) .................................................................................................................. 67

Numeric keypad......................................................................................................................... 67

O

Object properties................................................................................................................45, 55

Offset............................................................................................................................................ 67

OGG VORBIS.............................................................................................................................. 67

Online Update ............................................................................................................................ 47

Open .............................................................................................................................................38

Open automatically saved project......................................................................................... 41

Open magix.info.........................................................................................................................45

P

PAL (Europe).............................................................................................................................. 67

Play marker .................................................................................................................................67

Playlist ..........................................................................................................................................67

Plug-in ..........................................................................................................................................68

POP3............................................................................................................................................. 68

Program settings..................................................................................................................41, 56

Program.........................................................................................................................................41

Project settings ....................................................................................................................41, 56

Project... ........................................................................................................................................41

Properties ....................................................................................................................................45

Provider........................................................................................................................................ 68

R

RAM (Random Access Memory) .........................................................................................68

Ratio:.............................................................................................................................................68

www.magix.com

Reactivate hint dialogs .............................................................................................................57

Recording quality:.......................................................................................................................19

Recordings from MiniDV/HDV cameras.............................................................................16

Red Book ......................................................................................................................................69

Regieleiste....................................................................................................................................24

Register as guest of a screen session...................................................................................46

Register as host for a screen transfer...................................................................................46

Register online............................................................................................................................46

Remove a Clip.............................................................................................................................22

Remove background music..................................................................................................... 27

Remove entire background music.........................................................................................43

Reposition Background Music................................................................................................ 25

Reset..............................................................................................................................................45

Reset Program Settings to Default.........................................................................................41

Restore.................................................................................................................................. 42, 69

Rotate 90° ...................................................................................................................................43

Index 81

S

Save ...............................................................................................................................................38

Save as.......................................................................................................................................... 39

Save on computer......................................................................................................................34

Scene.............................................................................................................................................69

Scene recognition .........................................................................................................21, 43, 52

Screenshot...................................................................................................................................69

Select All ......................................................................................................................................43

Select DVD, Blu-ray, AVCHD or SD card............................................................................30

Serial number.......................................................................................................................... 5, 12

Set object .....................................................................................................................................49

Settings..........................................................................................................................................41

Slider .............................................................................................................................................69

SMTP.............................................................................................................................................69

Software .......................................................................................................................................69

Sound and music........................................................................................................................25

Sound/Image offset ................................................................................................................. 44

Split Object..................................................................................................................................43

Start program...............................................................................................................................12

Start Video Editing.....................................................................................................................24

Storyboard mode .......................................................................................................................70

Submenu ......................................................................................................................................70

Super Video CD (SVCD) .........................................................................................................70

T

The burn dialog...........................................................................................................................32

Tips for program help ...............................................................................................................59

Title and text................................................................................................................................51

Toolbar..........................................................................................................................................70

Top-level domain........................................................................................................................71

Traffic.............................................................................................................................................71

Transfer analog video ................................................................................................................18

82

U

Undo .............................................................................................................................................42

Upload to Internet..................................................................................................................... 35

Universal Plug & Play................................................................................................................. 71

URL................................................................................................................................................. 71

V

Video effects............................................................................................................................... 52

Video Mode ................................................................................................................................ 57

Video Monitor............................................................................................................................48

Video stabilization.............................................................................................................44, 54

View duration............................................................................................................................. 43

VirtualDub plug-in .....................................................................................................................71

VST and DirectX plug-ins.........................................................................................................71

W

WAV............................................................................................................................................. 72

Wave ............................................................................................................................................ 72

Wave file...................................................................................................................................... 72

Webhosting ................................................................................................................................ 72

Webmail ......................................................................................................................................72

Webmaster ................................................................................................................................. 72

Webserver................................................................................................................................... 72

Welcome to MAGIX Video easy 4 HD ..................................................................................3

What's new in MAGIX Video easy 4 HD? ............................................................................3

WMA............................................................................................................................................ 72

World Wide Web (WWW)................................................................................................... 72

Y

Youtube / Facebook .................................................................................................................40

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