Preparations; Tips, Techniques & Recommendations - Gemini 4:4:4 User Manual

PREPARATIONS

TIPS, TECHNIQUES & RECOMMENDATIONS
The Gemini 4:4:4 is a sophisticated, technologically advanced device. A few simple tips, techniques
and recommendations can help ensure a successful shoot.
1. Register your unit now, as you need access to the Internet to do so.
It must be registered. Otherwise the unit is disabled.
2. Obtain the Gemini 4:4:4 and all the necessary batteries, chargers well in advance of your shoot.
Please be certain to plug the power cable into the power input, which is on the left side, the
remote control connector is on the right side. Forcing the power connector into the remote
control connector will damage the Gemini 4:4:4.
3. Obtain genuine Convergent Design SSD's. No other SSD's will work in the Gemini 4:4:4.
This is to ensure that the SSD's are fast enough and have been fully tested prior to your shoot.
4. Extra, high quality HD-SDI cables are very desirable and should be available on every shoot.
These must be good quality 75 Ohm cables with true 75 Ohm connectors. SDI cables rated for
3G SMPTE 424M are always preferred.
5. Please read the manual, you will gain a lot of practical knowledge.
The latest version is on our website:
http://convergent-design.com/LinkClick.aspx?fileticket=CdmSeL04O18%3d&tabid=139
6. We generally recommend that you use the latest firmware.
http://convergent-design.com/FirmwareUpdates/Gemini444.aspx
7. Test the unit and the SSD's, with your camera, in advance of the shoot.
Setup your camera, exactly as you will for the shoot, setup the Gemini 4:4:4,
create some test footage, and run this test footage through your Post workflow.
Ensure that your Post department can handle the full uncompressed workflow.
Full uncompressed video is great, it is just different. Many systems support DPX and ARRIRAW,
but not all. Please see the Workflow page on our website.
8. For editing DPX Files using Final Cut Pro, please obtain GlueTools.
http://gluetools.com/products.html
9. Obtain a way to back up your data in the field. A good backup procedure is to have two
backups, stored on separate devices, and have all of your footage checked visually, prior to
reformatting and reusing the SSD's.
10. Purchase enough SSD's, plus some extras. Be certain that you have enough so that you can
shoot while the backups are being made and the footage is being checked.
11. While shooting, during breaks, playback you footage, from within the Gemini 4:4:4 to check that
everything is working fine. But, more importantly, transfer you footage to a backup, then play
the footage from the backup to ensure that all is good!
12. Feel free to call, Skype or email Support 24/7. We strive to provide world class support. If you
don't reach us at one number, try another.
Support Contact Info: See Page 40.
13. Ensure that camera viewfinder data is not being sent to the Gemini 4:4:4.
Record a test, and then play it back. If you see viewfinder data while you are recording, or on
playback, please turn off OSD (On Screen Display), otherwise this will be recorded in your files.
14. Do not use Beta firmware for production work!
www.Gemini444.com
Gemini 4:4:4 User Manual
Select "Cineon/DPX Pro for Final Cut Studio".
021313
18 | P a g e