RE: [AV Media Matters] automated tape checking

[failsbc@cinetel.com]

We use an RTI tape evaluator that has betacam and digital betacam
capabilities.  Keep in mind that this is a non-destructive evaluator,
meaning that it cannot directly detect "dropouts" as defined as incomplete
recording on the media itself.  Rather, this unit uses an optical array of
sensors that "looks" at the tape surface itself for creases or
imperfections. It's another approach to "evaluation" of the tapes.  We find
it very helpful as it allow you to look for damage to the tape while
maintaining the content.

If you would like more information about our experience with this system,
please feel free to contact me.

Bryan C. Fails
Vice President- Post Production
Scripps Networks
HGTV-Food-DIY
Knoxville, Tennessee
423-470-3861
failsbc@cinetel.com

Moderators Comment;
RTI machines do not have video heads and do not play the tape  as
Bryan's post indicates - there are many things that can effect tape
playback which such a configuration could not detect.  RTI makes
another machine that hooks up directly to the rf output of a vtr and
counts dropouts. I have never worked with one, but there can be many
different things that cause drop outs too - including the condition
of the heads and even the RH in the room (higher rh will tend to
give you better head to tape contact and thereby reduce dropouts....
but increase headwear... no free lunch).  In digibeta decks one can
check the error rate in one of the diagnostic modes which is
probably a better tool all things considered. Other formats like D2
have similar functionality but varies on a model to model and format
to format basis.

I would be very cautious using these techniques If you were to
consider using these types of measurements to try to determine tape
condition - in most environments there are too many variables. Just
the dust and RH and temperature during the test could change the
results quite dramatically and potentially give you an incorrect
prognosis.

jim

-----Original Message-----
From: tony gardner [mailto:anthony.gardner@cec.eu.int]
Sent: Wednesday, November 24, 1999 11:55 AM
To: AV-Media-Matters@topica.com
Subject: [AV Media Matters] automated tape checking

Is there a machine on the market for checking the condition of recorded
digital betacam tapes?
I need a machine which will note drop outs against the time code on the
tape, and maybe makes other checks as well (eg video/audio levels, black
detection, TC discontinuity ...).
I envisage using this as at a checking stage before archiving, and
eventually to assess the condition of the archive later.

Tony Gardner
Press and Communication Service
European Commmission
anthony.gardner@cec.eu.int