London-based HD broadcast service provider On Sight HD LAB recently added the Snell FilmTools module to its Alchemist Ph.C-HD motion-compensated frame-rate standards converter. Coupled with the transparent standards conversion
capabilities of the Alchemist Ph.C-HD, the module’s features for converting low frame-rate, film-based material allow On Sight to deliver high-quality SD and HD content to broadcasters worldwide.
On Sight uses Alchemist Ph.C-HD with the FilmTools module to create masters from HD and SD content, and those masters serve as a basis for subsequent copies, including Blu-ray Discs, DVDs and broadcast content. In reversioning media for the international market, On Sight uses the Alchemist Ph.C-HD primarily for HD frame-rate conversion for distribution to the United States. The company also employs the Snell converter to provide smooth down/crossconversion from HD to SD when only SD is required.
"Paired with the Alchemist Ph.C-HD, [FilmTools is] a critical component in our film out, digital cinema and Blu-ray delivery services," said Tony Maher, facilities manager for On Sight. Working together, the tools save time and money for clients with the integrated Alchemist Dolby E conversion options On Sight has invested in, he said.
FilmTools gives On Sight the ability to convert to, from and between frame-based materials. In particular, FilmTools provides smooth and seamless conversion of 25fps or 29.97fps material to 23.98fps or 24fps for output to traditional film, digital cinema and Blu-ray formats. FilmTools is also useful for converting material with 2:3 pulldown, or content that has been telecined from film, to 24fps. In addition, FilmTools provides motion-compensated deinterlacing for conversion from interlaced to progressive video, resulting in high picture quality and a cinematic or "film-like" look.
