BETACAM
The first 'small format' for ENG and EFP. based on the Betamax consumer VCR format, the Betacam system uses separate tracks for luminance and colour difference signals. The chrominance information is time-compressed, so that two channels fit within one track. This component approach allows the various channels to be optimised according to their duty. The format includes two longitudinal, analogue audio tracks.
| Signal system |
| Analogue, component. |
| Scanner |
| Geometry |
Helical |
| No. of rotating heads |
6 |
| Scanner diameter |
74.487 * (upper) |
mm |
| Rotation speed |
25 * |
rev/s |
| Tracks/revolution |
4(2Y,2C) * |
|
| Head-to-tape speed |
5.75 |
m/s |
| Video track angle |
4.60 |
degree |
| |
Video |
Chroma |
| Track width |
86 |
73 |
µm |
| Track pitch |
161.4 |
80.5 |
µm |
| Azimuth |
-15 |
+15 |
degree |
| Tape Properties |
|
| Coercivity |
650 |
Oe |
| Type |
Cobalt modified oxide |
| Width |
12.65 |
mm |
| Thickness (total) |
25 (max) |
µm |
| Tape Consumption |
|
| Linear |
101.51 |
mm/s |
| Areal |
0.077 |
m²/min |
| Shelf volume |
514 |
cm³/h |
| Electrical Characteristics |
|
| |
Video |
Chroma |
| Sync tip carrier frequ. |
4.4 |
5.78** |
MHz |
| Blanking |
4.97 |
4.5** |
MHz |
| Peak white |
6.4 |
|
MHz |
| Peak positive video |
|
3.83** |
MHz |
| Peak negative video |
|
5.17** |
MHz |
| Shortest wavelength |
0.9 |
|
µm |
* The format standard does not preclude other arrangements, provided the standard tape
footprint is maintained.
** For 100% colour bars.
