Let's take a look at the Avid AVX timecode effect plug-in. This segment based effect allows for real-time overlay of source and record metadata as part of a digital cut, transcode or export.
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Timecode burn-in is commonly needed in post production when handing picture over to sound or visual effects. Having the metadata as part of the image allows for easy reference for any of these downstream processes.
As you'll see here though, the Avid AVX Timecode effect plug-in takes this idea to the next level. As with other AVX effects, the Timecode plug-in can be found in the Effects palette under Generators.
In my timeline, I'm going to add a new track, then I'll add the AVX effect to that new track. This way, as I work, I can easily toggle the effect right here using the track monitor.
If I go into effects mode, we can see up to four overlay controls. Three for timecode metadata and another for notes. Inside each of the overlay controls are the parameters for that metadata overlay. It is here in the reader menu that you will select the type of data you wish to display. The type menu is then used to control how the timecode display is calculated. Plus, you can select from which track the metadata should be drawn for display from any one of the twenty-four video our audio tracks.
In addition to the timecode information the plug-in allows for any metadata that is currently displayed above the Source or Record monitor. This includes Keycode, duration, Ink Numbers, DPX, even clip names. For example, if I choose "Frames" from the reader menu and "Remaining" in the type menu, then I will get a countdown to the end of my movie in frames. Or, if I choose "Source" in the reader menu and "Current" from the type menu, then the source timecode for each clip in my sequence will be displayed.
The fourth metadata display is actually a notes track overlay. The content of which is user-definable. Identification or promotion is an ideal use for this tool. As is open watermarking for security purposes. If we want to add a notes track, it's easy to do so by directly typing into the text window of the notes section. Of course we can always copy-and-paste into this area too.
The appearance tab for each of the overlay windows allows for Position, Size, Opacity and Background Color. It is also convenient to be able to add the name of the clip to the overlay window so a producer or director can read which shot was actually included in the cut, maybe as a part of a review and approval process.
Another really useful aspect of this tool is the Display Label. If this option is selected the display begins with a label identifying the timecode format. If this option is deselected, only the timecode value itself is displayed.
As with all AVX plug-ins presets can be saved and quickly added as needed. The user can prepare layout, size, color, background, metadata type and position, and quickly add to the timeline when needed. As I drop these saved templates to the timeline, you can see how the timecode plug-in automatically inherits the source/record metadata of that timeline. And of course, all of these overlays are available in real-time.
Also unique to the Avid AVX Timecode plug-in is that it makes use of the extensive metadata database within the Avid Media Composer. And is therefore able to create 24 frames-per-second and 30 frames-per-second burn-ins directly from the original FPS source. This ensures that PAL and NTSC workflows can proceed with clarity and predictability for the entire production chain. Feet and frames as well as total frames can be selected to support animation and feature film workflows.
Avid built the AVX Timecode plug-in with the intention that it satisfy the most demanding of post production needs.
The AVX Timecode Burn-in Effect Generator is a new feature available with:
Avid Media Composer Software v3.0 and above Upgrade or Buy Online | Request Info
Avid Symphony v3.0 and above Request Info
Avid NewsCutter Software v7.0 and above Request Info
Also available on Avid Nitris DX and Avid Mojo DX system configurations.
Editor's Note:
Thank you to Lesley Glorioso, Michael Phillips and Steve Holyhead for writing this tutorial. Additional thanks to Steve Holyhead for creating and presenting this video.