Casablanca Prestige User manual

Casablanca Prestige User manual

The following product named "Casablanca Prestige" carries the CE seal of conformity on the basis of the guidelines 89/336/EWG of the
Commission of the European Community from 29. April 1991 for the alignment of legal regulations in the signatory states concerning
communications devices, including mutual recognition of their conformity.
This digital video editing system is meant for use with hard-drives carrying the CE seal of conformity. The product "Casablanca Prestige"
described here fullls the requirements for a CE seal of conformity.
• Interference immunity according to EN 55024: 1998
Information technology devices interference immunity limits and quality testing
• Radio interference suppression according to EN 55022 class A 1998 Class A
Information technology devices radio interference properties limits and measurement procedures
• Electrical safety according to EN 60950: 2000
Safety of information technology devices including electrical ofce machines
This device is designed for use in industry. Interference immunity and interference emission conform to guidelines for industrial devices.
When used in living and business areas interference with other devices (e.g. radio) may occur. The operator is responsible at his or her own
cost to ensure that no third party is affected by possible interference.
This statement is given in responsibility for the manufacturer: MacroSystem Digital Video AG, Schöllinger Feld 28, 58300 Wetter, Germany
This equipment has been tested and found to comply with the limits for a Class A digital device, pursuant to part 15 of the FCC Rules. These
limits are designed to provide reasonable protection against harmful interference when the equipment is operated in a commercial envi-
ronment. This equipment generates, uses, and can radiate radio frequency energy and, if not installed and used in accordance with the
instruction manual, may cause harmful interference to radio communications. Operation of this equipment in a residential area is likely to
cause harmful interference in which case the user will be required to correct the interference at her/his own expense.
Remarks on Safety
This device conforms to the relevant safety regulations for computer equipment, including electrical ofce machines for industry. In case you
are in doubt as to permission regarding setup in the intended surroundings, please contact your dealer or our service department.
• Transport the device only in the original packing or in other appropriate packing that guarantees protection against sudden movements or
impacts.
• Condensation may result if the device is set up for operation after having been in colder surroundings. You should wait about 2 hours to let
the device become dry and attain the temperature of the operating location.
• Read the notes below "Location Environment" when setting up and before operating the device.
• Check that the operating voltage indicated on the type label is the same as the power outlet.
• This device is equipped with a safety-approved power cable and may only be connected to a grounded shockproof socket.
• The ON/OFF switch does not electrically separate the device from power. For complete separation from power the power cable must be
pulled from the power outlet socket.
• Make sure that the power connector on the machine and the room shockproof socket are easily accessible.
• Place the power cables so that they are not a danger (tripping) and will not be damaged.
• Data lines must not remain connected during electrical storms.
• In emergencies (e.g. damaged casing, operating elements, or power line, liquid poured on the device, or foreign substances) you must turn
off the device immediately, pull the power plug, and contact your dealer or our service department.
• Only qualied and authorized personnel may repair the device. Unauthorized opening and improper repairs can mean real danger for the
user. In such cases the guarantee is no longer valid.
• Install only system extensions that conform to the requirements and rules for safety, electromagnetic interference, and telecommunications
end devices. Installing other extensions may violate these requirements and rules, or damage the system. Your dealer or our service depart-
ment can tell you which system extensions are allowed.
• The unit contains a Lithium battery. It may only be removed or exchanged by authorized personnel. Incorrectly replacing the battery may
lead to the battery exploding. Replace the battery only with the same or equivalent type recommended by the manufacturer. Dispose of
used battery according to the manufacture‘s instructions.
Location Environment
Make sure that there is sufcient circulation of the air in order to prevent thermal buildup. Do not cover up the machine. If you mount the
machine in a rack make sure that sufcient air circulation is guaranteed. Do not set up the machine on carpeting, blankets, or the like. Do
not set up the machine near curtains, etc., because this entails the danger of blocking the ventilation ducts on the machine. Do not set up
the machine near heating or the like, and not in locations that are overly dusty, affected by direct sunlight, mechanical vibrations, or where
the machine can be knocked. The machine should be in a horizontal position when being operated. Do not set up the machine on an incline.
Keep the machine at a distance from devices that emit a strong magnetic eld (microwave ovens, large loudspeakers). Make sure that the
machine is operated at a location temperature of 10 to 25° centigrade. The location must be dry. Air humidity must not be more than 80% and
must not be condensing.

Table of contents
Chapter 1: Introduction....................................................................................................... 5
1.1 Congratulations! ......................................................................................... 5
1.2 What is Casablanca Prestige? .................................................................... 6
1.3 Structure of this user manual ..................................................................... 6
Chapter 2: Installation........................................................................................................ 7
2.1 What‘s in the box?...................................................................................... 7
2.2 Registration/Update service ....................................................................... 7
2.3 How to connect........................................................................................... 8
2.4 Installing the OS software.......................................................................... 9
2.5 Unlocking software .................................................................................... 11
2.6 Initial operation........................................................................................... 12
Chapter 3: Basics ................................................................................................................ 13
3.1 Editing philosophy ..................................................................................... 13
3.2 Using the trackball...................................................................................... 14
3.3 The user interface ....................................................................................... 14
Chapter 4: Tutorials ............................................................................................................ 21
4.1 Tutorial 1: A small video project ............................................................... 21
4.2 Tutorial 2: Insert editing............................................................................. 31
4.3 Tutorial 3: Audio mixing............................................................................ 34
4.4 Tutorial 4: Titling 1 .................................................................................... 37
4.5 Tutorial 5: Titling 2 .................................................................................... 40
Chapter 5: Reference .......................................................................................................... 41
5.1 System settings ........................................................................................... 41
5.2 Project settings............................................................................................ 42
5.3 Video settings.............................................................................................. 43
5.4 Recording.................................................................................................... 44
5.5 Editing......................................................................................................... 45
5.6 Finish........................................................................................................... 52
5.7 Transition effects ........................................................................................ 55
5.8 Image processing effects ............................................................................ 59
5.9 Titling .......................................................................................................... 64
5.10 Audio recording/editing ........................................................................... 69
5.11 Audio mixing/Dubbing ............................................................................ 71
5.12 Shutdown (OFF)....................................................................................... 74
Chapter 6: VGA-Mode ....................................................................................................... 75
Chapter 7: Tip and Error Handling .................................................................................. 77
Chapter 8: Technical Data .................................................................................................. 81
Index

Note:
To avoid making mistakes during operation, we recommend that you carefully follow the instructions provided in this manual. We would also like to point
out that Casablanca Prestige has been designed with the hobby enthusiast in mind. We have taken a great deal of care while programming and checking
this software.
Nevertheless, since it is not possible to guarantee totally error-free software applications in all environments and at any time, we unfortunately cannot rule
out the possibility that some errors may still exist. If, contrary to all expectations, this is indeed the case, we shall remedy any errors in the program and
supply the affected customers with the new software free of charge. We cannot, however, accept any liability for loss of data/time or any consequential
damages that may occur as a result, particularly since we have no inuence over correct software installation and operation by the customer.
MacroSystem Digital Video AG and its dealers therefore cannot be held liable for any defects or unintentional damage in connection with the installation or
use of Casablanca Prestige.
MacroSystem Digital Video AG and its dealers do not guarantee error-free use of the software or complete awlessness of the program.
Any implied guarantee is null and void, including guarantee of suitability of the software or operating instructions for a particular purpose.
Neither MacroSystem Digital Video AG nor its dealers are responsible for any damages resulting either directly or indirectly through the use of the
software or the operating instructions, e.g. for prot loss, costs, hardware or software problems or other issues.
Casablanca Prestige
© Copyright 2002 MacroSystem Digital Video AG
All product names mentioned are registered trademarks of the corresponding rms. This document is protected by copyright. Any change, copy, translati-
on, or distribution without prior permission of the author is prohibited.
No liability is assumed for information in this document. We reserve the right to make technical changes.

5
Chapter 1: Introduction
1.1 Congratulations!
Congratulations on the purchase of your new
Casablanca Prestige! We thank you for the con-
dence and trust you have shown us, and we hope
that Casablanca Prestige will meet your expecta-
tions.
Casablanca Prestige follows a philosophy
completely different from that of other video
editing systems, opening up new and remarkable
possibilities for working with video to you and
those who work with you.
If you are new to video editing, you will quickly
and easily become acquainted with Casablanca
Prestige and will soon enjoy the new creative
realms it will open up for you.
For those of you with prior experience with
other systems, (for example with linear (analog)
equipment or digital computer systems), it will
be easy to make and you will be rewarded with
the almost limitless possibilities that Casablanca
Prestige offers.
This manual will help you with installing and
operating Casablanca Prestige. Feel free to
contact us to ask further questions or to give us
suggestions.
Whenever you contact us, please have your
customer number or the serial number of your
Casablanca device at hand so that we can help
you more quickly.
Address :
MacroSystem Digital Video AG
Postfach 020240
58290 Wetter
Germany
MacroSystem US
5485 Conestoga Court
Boulder, Colorado
USA 80301
Phone
0 +49 (0)2335/960-0 (Germany)
303-440-5311 (North America)
E-Mail
[email protected] (Germany)
[email protected] (North America)
Fax
0 +49 (0)2335/960-100 (Germany)
303-440-5322 (North America)
Up-to-date information on MacroSystem
products and our sales department can be found
on the Internet.
Please visit our Website:
http://www.macrosystem.de (Germany)
http://www.casablanca.tv (North America)
Phone Support
If you have special technical questions, you can
call our technical support hotline:
(Germany)
Monday -Thursday from 10.00 to 17.00 hours
Friday 10.00 to 16.00 hours
+49 (0)2335/960-112
(North America)
Monday - Friday 9a.m. - 5p.m. (Mountain Stan-
dard Time)
303-801-1010
When calling, please have the serial number of
your device at hand.
Outside of these times you can email or fax us.
Messages received in this way are handled during
business hours.
E-Mail Support
[email protected] (Germany)
[email protected] (North America)
Fax Support
+49 (0)2335/960-110 (Germany)
303-801-1058 (North America)

6
1.2 What is Casablanca Prestige?
Casablanca Prestige is a non-linear editor. All
video and audio data are stored on the system
hard drive and can then be separated into
individual scenes. These scenes can be trimmed as
desired and added to a storyboard. It is possible
to add many different transitions between the
scenes. You can mix with six stereo tracks, mixing
original sound, various pieces of music, and
commentary. A large selection of fonts and effects
makes our Titler powerful, yet easy to use.
Casablanca Prestige is a complete system for digi-
tal video editing that is superior in data transfer
rate and picture quality to the requirements of the
DV system. Casablanca Prestige is operated by a
trackball (supplied in the package) and the user
interface has been designed to be as easy to use as
possible. Software installation is almost fully auto-
matic and requires only basic user input.
All of this is meant for the user who is not
familiar with computers. Its goal is simplicity
of use, even though the power and versatility
of the system makes for almost endless creative
possibilities. Also, Casablanca Prestige is not
affected by limitations in recording duration that
typically apply to computers.
The impressive hardware performance of Casab-
lanca Prestige is ideal for full digital video editing
with MiniDV, (although of course analog equip-
ment is easily compatible as well.)
DV devices (camcorders, DV decks, etc.) can be
connected through the DV (i-Link) port. This
means that digital video editing has practically no
loss, (especially when using digital DV cameras
and decks).
Optimally, to avoid analog losses altogether, you
should record in and out using the MiniDV
format. But it is also possible to input from a DV
camera and to record out through YC (S-video)
CVBS (RCA) or SCART (in Europe) to a VHS,
SVHS, or Hi8 recorder, and still get phenomenal
results.
It is not necessary to install any additional com-
ponents whatsoever (such as computer boards,
memory modules, etc).
Casablanca Prestige is a complete system offered
by one company – hardware, software, and video
technology have been developed in Germany by
MacroSystem Digital Video AG.
1.3 Structure of this user manual
This manual is divided into two main parts and
several appendices.
The rst part of this manual guides the user
through Installation (Chapter 2), then through
the Basics of device use (Chapter 3) and then
through ve Tutorials (Chapter 4). These sections
are designed to help new owners to begin editing
right away, and to help owners of previous
Casablanca systems to quickly familiarize
themselves with everything that the Casablanca
Prestige has to offer.
In the second main part, all screens, buttons
and their functions are explained in a complete
Reference section (Chapter 5). There you will
nd useful hints that will make your work easier.
If there is a function that you do not completely
understand, there you can read up on it to
become more familiar.
The chapters VGA Mode (Chapter 6), Tips &
Error Handling (Chapter 7), and Technical Data
(Chapter 8) offer tips and tricks as well as tech-
nical and background information. The table of
contents and the index complete this manual.
Enjoy exploring Casablanca Prestige!
We hope that you will be as satised as the many
thousands of Casablanca customers before you!

7
Chapter 2: Installation
Several steps are necessary before you begin to
use Casablanca Prestige, and you should allow
yourself some time for this setup. This part of
the manual explains the necessary installation
procedures.
After you have unpacked and connected the
Casablanca Prestige, you may want to turn it on
and try it out right away. This is simple to do, but
there are other cabling options that depend on the
rest of the equipment in your studio. Therefore,
please read the description of the individual steps
carefully!
2.1 What's in the package?
The following items are included in the package:
1. The Casablanca Prestige unit
2. Trackball
3. 16 MB installation SmartMedia card
4. User manual
5. Connecting cables
6. Registration card
7. Key for hard-drive module
(Depending on the country that you live in, there
may be other pieces of literature or other items
included, so be sure to inspect the contents of
your package carefully.)
If some items are missing, please contact the dea-
ler where you bought the unit.
Please save the packaging in case you ever have
to transport your unit or send it to the manufac-
turer. The packaging has been specially designed
for Casablanca Prestige and is very sturdy. (Ma-
croSystem is not responsible for damage incurred
from improper packing during shipping).
2.2 Registration/Update service
Please take the time to register with us. There is a
registration card in the package.
When you register, your information will be put
into our database. Your info will not be given to
third parties, but it will allow us to give you better
customer service.
Please register, even if you are already registered
as the owner of another Casablanca product!
Your registration ensures that you are automati-
cally informed about new products, modicati-
ons, and updates to various MacroSystem pro-
ducts. In addition, you will automatically receive
free codes to unlock the bonus effects available on
the included SmartMedia card. (see section 2.5
“Unlocking software“)
(The following information does not apply to
North American Customers.)
On the registration card you can apply for the
automatic update service. This means that you
declare yourself willing to buy every new update
at a price reduction of approximately 20%. The
automatic update service consists solely of new
developments in the software.
Update delivery, available earlier through this sub-
scription than regular ordering, is by invoice with
delivery free of charge.
You can cancel your automatic update
subscription at any time. You don't have to
worry about being obligated by a long-term
subscription.
The new versions are announced ahead of time
in well-known publications. You can also ask
our dealers about new developments or visit our
homepage on the Internet. On request we will
send you detailed information material. (Please
note that the automatic update service is subject
to the country that you live in. Contact the ofcial
MacroSystem ofce or distribution partner to
nd out how this system is supported. (This
information does not apply to North American
Customers.)

2.3 How to connect your Casablanca
Prestige
In addition to your TV monitor, you will need
a video input device and a recording machine,
usually your video camera and your VCR
(MiniDV or analog).
In the following two pictures, you see the front
side (1-5) and the rear side of Casablanca
Prestige. The back of the unit is divided into the
left half (6-10) and the right half (11-17).
Front:
(1) Video IN (RCA)
This CVBS (RCA) input is used to connect (via
RCA cables) from a VHS or Video8 input device.
(2) L/R Audio IN (RCA)
To capture audio you must connect the cable to
the Audio IN L and R inputs. Sources for mixing
(e.g. CD player) can also be connected here when
needed.
(3) S-Video IN
If you have a Hi8 or SVHS input device, then you
should use the YC (s-video) input because picture
quality will be better than CVBS (RCA).
(4) Mic. IN
You can connect a microphone to this input to
record commentary. This is a stereo input with a
3.5 mm jack. You can use an adapter if your mic-
rophone has a 6.3 mm jack plug.
You can also connect a mono microphone, but be
sure to set the corresponding Mono mode in the
Audio Record screen.
(5) DV IN/OUT
This "DV" connection serves as input and output
for MiniDV/DV decks and cameras, and offers
optimum quality. Be sure that only one DV device
is connected at any time, or errors may occur.
Rear side
(6) Power connection
Here you connect the machine to the power line
(220-240 V in most parts of Europe, 115 V in
North America). Connect the supplied power
cable to the power plug on the rear side of the
machine and then connect the other end to the
power outlet. Never turn off the machine by pul-
ling the power cable from the electrical outlet or
by cutting power between the machine and the
outlet. Always use the switch on the front side of
Casablanca Prestige, or use the “Off” button in
the Main Menu screen, or data may be lost.
(7) Video/TV Monitor RGB (Europe only)
(The following information is not applicable in
North America.)
Connect your TV monitor (for a computer
monitor see Chapter 6 „VGA mode“) to this
SCART port. For televisions supporting RGB
in addition to CVBS, the user interface appears
very sharp. Be sure to choose the correct AV
input on your television. (If your TV does not
have a SCART port, then connect it through the
CVBS(RCA) input or through the antenna socket
8

9
of the VCR. This conguration results in lower
picture quality. If you normally do not connect
the VCR to the TV through the antenna socket,
then you must rst program the video recorder
channel in your television.)
(8) Ethernet
This port is an interface for exchanging data with
other devices (e.g. computers), but at the time this
manual was printed it is not yet supported by the
software. There are two lights next to this port.
One of these lights is permanently lit red.
(9) S-Video OUT (YC)
You can connect VCR (Hi8, SVHS, or MiniDV)
to this port to output to tape once your project is
completed. If your video recorder supports a YC
(S-video) signal, then you should use this as your
output, because YC (S-video) is superior to CVBS
(RCA).
(10) S-Video IN (YC)
You can use this input instead of the front input
in order to connect your Hi8, SVHS, or MiniDV
camera. Ideally, MiniDV should input via the DV
port, however, the YC (S-video) port may occasi-
onally be used if the footage needs to be corrected
with the Brightness, Contrast and Saturation
controls in the Video Settings screen, (see section
5.3: Video Settings).
(11) Video OUT ( RCA)
Here you can connect a VHS vcr, Video8 recorder
or TV.
(12) Video IN (RCA)
You can use this input to connect your VHS or
Video8 input device as an alternative to the front
inputs.
(13) L/R Audio OUT (RCA)
The audio outputs are here, and should be used to
output to your VCR or TV.
(14) L/R Audio IN (RCA)
These audio inputs can be used instead of the
front inputs.
(15) DV (IN/OUT)
This "DV" port can be used instead of the front
input and output to connect your MiniDV/
DV recorder or your camera. The Prestige will
automatically detect which DV input you are
using. (It is recommended that you have only one
DV device hooked up at any given time.)
(16) 3 USB
One of the three USB ports should be used to
connect the trackball. The other two can be used
for other options (e.g. Twister, PC-Link, Power-
Key Option, etc.). For users wishing to connect
more than 3 USB devices, we offer a quadruple
HUB. The HUB is a distributor supplied with a
support (for horizontal mounting), a USB con-
necting cable (length 1.5 meters), and an AC
adapter.
(17) VGA
You can use the VGA port to connect a computer
monitor in addition to your TV monitor. In this
way you can view the menus on the computer
screen and see your video footage without
overlapping menus on the TV screen (see Chapter
6 "VGA Mode").
Important note: Never disconnect cables from
Casablanca Prestige while the machine is on. Al-
ways turn off the machine before you disconnect/
reconnect cables!
2.4 Installing the OS software
When starting, Casablanca Prestige reads the OS
program from the hard drive.
It is possible that the supplied Casablanca Pres-
tige OSversion on the SmartMedia card is more
recent than the version already installed by your
dealer (or at the factory). Press the button on the
front side of the machine to turn it on. The Main
menu appears after a greeting message and you
can compare the version number on the Smart-
Media card with the number displayed in the
System Settings screen. If the version number of
the SmartMedia card is higher, then you should
install the more recent version.
The SmartMedia card is very sensitive so please
avoid bending it or touching the gold contacts

10
11
on the card. Always return the SmartCard to its
protective sleeve after use.
You must carry out the installation procedure if
you do not see the Main Menu screen once your
Casablanca Prestige is turned on.
You will know an installation is necessary if you
see a SmartMedia symbol at the upper-left corner
displaying a ashing arrow indicating that the
SmartMedia card should be inserted.
If you insert an invalid SmartMedia card (a card
other than the installation SmartMedia card),
then the SmartMedia symbol appears (shown
below), indicating that the correct installation
SmartMedia card should be inserted.
The software is installed by inserting the
SmartMedia card into Smartcard Reader above
the front inputs. Viewing the Casablanca
Prestige machine, the gold contacts must be on
the bottom side and the cut-off corner on the
top side and to the left.
Insert the card until only about half a centimeter
is still visible and you detect resistance. Now you
can turn on the machine by lightly pressing the
power switch on the front of the unit.
In case you have inserted an invalid SmartMedia
card (not the installation SmartMedia card), but a
system has already been installed previously, then
Casablanca Prestige will start, but will display a
question mark over the SmartMedia symbol.
The following symbol appears when the correct
SmartMedia card has been inserted:
During installation you will be asked several
questions to make sure you don't lose data
unintentionally – particularly in case your hard
drive already contains data and projects that
would be lost during a new installation procedure.
In this case you have the chance to cancel the new
installation.
The light on the front side (to the left of the
SmartCard Reader) lights up when the system
accesses the SmartMedia card. If it light is green,
then the device is operating normally.
If the ambulance symbol appears, then an error
has occurred, perhaps because of defective
hardware. An error code is usually also displayed.
If this occurs, please contact your dealer, or
MacroSystem Tech Support.
After installation has been carried out, remove
the SmartMedia card by lightly pushing it further
into the SmartCard reader so that it automatically
springs out a bit.