FireStore Announcements

Matt McEwen · June 1st, 2006, 12:06 PM

Recently there have been reports from some FS-100 users of drop-outs during recordings. Unfortunately some units shipped from our production plant with an incorrect FireWire bridge chip configuration. Focus apologizes for this problem and inconvenience, and we assure you that these drop-outs are in no way related to drive performance or future reliability, but rather a simple software error which resulted in a buffer overrun.

We have corrected this problem and posted a software update here:

http://www.focusinfo.com/support/downloads.asp

We recommend that ALL FS-100 users load this updated software, as there is no harm in doing so even if your unit is set correctly. Please download the new software (follow the software update instructions on the READ ME enclosed in the zip file) and then do a System Reset (follow instructions on page 72 of the User Guide).

Douglas Villalba · June 4th, 2006, 10:35 PM

Could you be a little more specific. I can't find the update in that page.

Matt McEwen · June 15th, 2006, 02:12 PM

The FS-100 QuickStart guide is now available for download at:

http://www.focusinfo.com/support/downloads.asp

It can be found under Product user Manuals.

Michael MK Siu · June 16th, 2006, 12:11 PM

I've downloadedthe FireStore_FS100 Updated from Focus's website and had successfully installed int onto one of our two firestores today.

I will be testing the Firestore tomorrow to see if there are any improvements - especially regarding the drop out / drop data issues.

However, in checking my version # of my FS-100 (Under Setup --> v 1.0.0.), I noticed that the updated FS-100 shows a firmware / version # that is lower than the FS-100 that wasn't updated:

Updated FS-100:
1.0.0.04052606
NTSC
FS-100

Not yet updated FS-100
1.0.0.05040706
NTSC
FS-100

I am wondering if the numbers are just indicators and that the "newer" firmware does not necessary has a higher firmware / version #.

Please help me clarify this. Thank you!

Cheers,
MK

Matt McEwen · June 19th, 2006, 10:51 AM

Hi Douglas,

Under Software Downloads, the new version is the first link in the list.

Regarding your question Michael, the last set of numbers are key for the software version number...

Updated FS-100:
1.0.0.04052606
NTSC
FS-100

Not yet updated FS-100
1.0.0.05040706
NTSC
FS-100

On the Updated version, it was a SW build created on May 26, 2006. On the Non updated version, it was a SW build that was created on April 7, 2006. Hope that clears it up.

Matt

Matt McEwen · June 23rd, 2006, 10:09 AM

Hello,

A new version of FS-100 firmware is now available for download from http://www.focusinfo.com/support/downloads.asp (select Software Downloads, and it is currently the top item). This new version solves an issue for Avid users where under some circumstances, the P2 Global Clip ID was duplicated causing the Avid Media Tool to only see certain clips. This version also has the earlier FireWire bridge updater fix included (remember to do a System Reset on FS-100 once you have loaded this version!).

Thanks,

Matt McEwen

Carl Martin · June 23rd, 2006, 01:10 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Matt McEwen

Hello,

A new version of FS-100 firmware is now available for download from http://www.focusinfo.com/support/downloads.asp (select Software Downloads, and it is currently the top item). This new version solves an issue for Avid users where under some circumstances, the P2 Global Clip ID was duplicated causing the Avid Media Tool to only see certain clips. This version also has the earlier FireWire bridge updater fix included (remember to do a System Reset on FS-100 once you have loaded this version!).

Thanks,

Matt McEwen

Hey Matt,

Do you know when the $39.00 update for the DR-HD100 will be available?

Thanks,

Carl

Matt McEwen · June 23rd, 2006, 04:21 PM

Early July. Sorry for the delay.
Matt

Carl Martin · June 23rd, 2006, 05:46 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Matt McEwen

Early July. Sorry for the delay.
Matt

Thanks, Matt.

Steve Benner · June 23rd, 2006, 06:20 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Carl Martin

Thanks, Matt.

So much for the end of June...That's alright though, I don't really mind waiting since I just got it and Apple is making us wait FAR LONGER on their Pro HD support (Please don't take that long though).

I just tested the drive today, and it is incredible.

Matt McEwen · June 29th, 2006, 04:44 PM

FS-100 Thumbnail and Auto-Stream Detect Version 2.0 Update Now Available

FS-100 firmware version 2.0 is now available as a free download from the Focus Enhancements website. The new version adds P2 thumbnail support and DV/DVCPRO, DVCPRO 50 and DVCPRO HD autostream detect.

P2 thumbnail support adds the ability to view a thumbnail of each clip in the import or viewer window on supported NLE systems and the P2 Viewer software. Unfortunately, thumbnails are not viewable on the Panasonic AG-HVX200 as thumbnails over FireWire is not a supported feature of the camera. However, if you would like to view clips back on the HVX200, simply switch the camera to VTR mode, press the thumbnail button on the top of the camcorder and then use FS-100's controls for playback.

Autostream Detect will automatically switch FS-100 between DV/DVCPRO, DVCPRO 50 and DVCPRO HD as these modes are switched on the AG-HVX200.

Earlier patches that fixed the drop-out issue and missing clips in Avid are included in this version. If you are updating your FS-100 to fix the drop-out issue, please remember to do a System Reset for the changes to take effect.

The new version as well as an updated User Guide can be downloaded from: http://www.focusinfo.com/solutions/catalog.asp?id=150

Matt McEwen · August 30th, 2006, 05:23 PM

The latest version of FS-100 firmware is now available for download at the Focus support site ( http://www.focusinfo.com/support/downloads.asp ) under software downloads. This update (2.0.0.04080806) is a maintenance release that addresses the following:

* Solves an issue where under certain circumstances, the incorrect frames where flagged in a 720p/24 sequence resulting in these frames missing on import to an NLE system
* Solves an issue where audio could be missing at the end of recordings.
* Various disk performance improvements
* AV/C stream capture to Final Cut Pro is now possible in DVCPRO 50 and DVCPRO HD modes
* Minor changes to the behavior of the organize P2 progress bar

Focus Enhancements recommends that you install this latest version on your FS-100. If you have additional queries, please visit the Focus support site at: http://www.focusinfo.com/support/. We also encourage you to register your Focus product at http://www.focusinfo.com/rfi/warranty.asp .

Thanks,

Focus Enhancements

Matt McEwen · September 15th, 2006, 09:44 AM

Focus Announces FS-100 v3.0 With HD Native Frame Rate and QuickTime Support

New Firmware Upgrade Adds Support for Native 720/24p, 25p and 30p as Well as Native QuickTime Support for DVCPRO HD Recordings

CAMPBELL, CA -- (MARKETWIRE) -- 09/09/2006 -- Focus Enhancements, Inc. (NASDAQ: FCSE), a worldwide leader in video production and conversion technology, today announced the version 3.0 firmware upgrade for its popular FS-100 Portable Direct To Edit® (DTE) recorder enabling users to record native 720/24p, 25p and 30p in the MXF P2 or QuickTime file formats commonly used in Apple's Final Cut Pro. Version 3.0 is expected to be available in the middle of the fourth quarter, 2006.

Native file format support only records the required frames in a DVCPRO HD stream, eliminating the need to remove advanced pulldown or duplicate frames during import to the edit system. The new 3.0 software version also adds QuickTime support for native frame rates as well as other 720p and 1080i DVCPRO HD record modes for DTE workflow within Apple Final Cut Pro, bypassing the normal P2 import process thereby decreasing workflow.
"Focus Enhancements' unique DTE technology is continually evolving to streamline and improve professional video production workflow," said Matt McEwen, senior product manager for Focus Enhancements. "The addition of native frame rate support as well as QuickTime support to FS-100 saves a tremendous amount of time in DVCPRO HD workflow as well as offering extended record time."

Using native frame rate recording, users can more than double the record time on the FS-100 from 100 minutes to over 200 minutes. By recording only the required frames, the bit rate for DVCPRO HD recordings drops to as low as 40Mb/s. While camcorders such as the Panasonic AG-HVX200 P2 camera/recorder do not output a stream via FireWire when set to native frame modes (pN), the FS-100 processor is capable of achieving the same native support by only recording the required frames when set to regular 720/24p, 25p and 30p modes. QuickTime support also includes up to four channels of digital audio.

The FS-100 3.0 upgrade is expected to be available directly from Focus Enhancements for $39 by the middle of the fourth quarter this year.
Focus Enhancements will demonstrate a beta version of the 3.0 software during IBC Expo at the Amsterdam RAI from September 8 - 12 in stand number 9.431. IBC is the leading event for professionals involved in the creation, management and delivery of entertainment content.
For more information on Focus Enhancements and its products, please visit www.focusinfo.com.

Matt McEwen · October 4th, 2006, 10:24 AM

Focus Enhancements Announces Availability of 2.0 Firmware Upgrade Adding Native QuickTime HDV Support for FS-4Pro HD, FS-C, and DR-HD100 Portable HD DTE Recorders

New DTE Technology(R) File Format Allows HDV Camcorder Owners to Import Clips Directly Into Apple Final Cut Pro 5 Using Direct To Edit(R) Technology

CAMPBELL, CA--(MARKET WIRE)--Oct 4, 2006 -- Focus Enhancements, Inc. (NASDAQ:FCSE - News), a worldwide leader in video production and conversion technology, today announced the availability of version 2.0 software which adds native QuickTime HDV support to its industry leading Direct To Edit (DTE) FS-4Pro HD, FS-C and DR-HD100 recorders. The upgrade will be available for purchase in disc format on the Focus Enhancements website for $39.
1080i 50/60 and 720p/30 clips recorded in the QuickTime HDV format using FS-4Pro HD, FS-C and DR-HD100 can be used immediately in Apple Final Cut Pro 5 without having to first capture or convert footage.

"The FS DTE Technology is the only disk recording solution that allows Final Cut users to record natively in the QuickTime format during acquisition in standard or high definition," said Matt McEwen, senior product manager for Focus Enhancements. "With the addition of QuickTime HDV support, Focus Enhancements' exclusive DTE Technology continues its position as the industry's leading direct-to-disk acquisition solution."

Sony, Canon and JVC camcorder owners can now record 1080i 50/60 or 720p/30 video directly to their FS-4Pro HD, FS-C and DR-HD100 in native QuickTime. The file can be imported directly into Apple Final Cut Pro and used immediately in the timeline -- eliminating the time-consuming steps of capturing and converting footage. The FS extracts and decodes the audio from the incoming HDV stream, combines it with the video stream, and wraps audio and video as a QuickTime file. Previously, clips had to be either captured or converted prior to use in Final Cut Pro 5.

The FS-4Pro HD and DR-HD100 offer a 40GB (3 hour) or 80GB (6 hour) internal disk drive, while the FS-C offers a 60GB (4 hour) or 100GB (7 hour) disk drive option. These versions feature separate 6-pin FireWire connectors for interfacing with camcorders and computers for editing or file transfer, a backlit status LCD display, and a comprehensive set of control buttons including a navigation pad. The FS-C was designed specifically for Canon HDV camcorders users. The DR-HD100 was designed for JVC GY-HD100 camcorder owners.

The FS-4Pro HD 40GB model has a US MSRP of $1,395 while the 80GB model is $1,795. The FS-C is available through Canon in both 60GB and 100GB versions for a US MSRP of $1,395 and $1,995, respectively. The 40GB and 80GB DR-HD100 models are available exclusively through JVC Professional for a US MSRP of $1,495 and $1,895, respectively. The version 2.0 update can be ordered directly from the Focus Enhancements website in disc format for an MSRP of $39.

For more information on Focus Enhancements and its products, please visit www.focusinfo.com.

Colin McFadden · October 4th, 2006, 03:05 PM

Rock on Matt.

Not to be "that guy," but are there plans for 24F Quicktime support in the FS4ProHD firmware down the line, now that FCP supports it?

June 1st, 2006, 12:06 PM	#46
Matt McEwen Focus Enhancements Join Date: Oct 2003 Location: Campbell, CA. Posts: 508	FS-100 Update Now Available Recently there have been reports from some FS-100 users of drop-outs during recordings. Unfortunately some units shipped from our production plant with an incorrect FireWire bridge chip configuration. Focus apologizes for this problem and inconvenience, and we assure you that these drop-outs are in no way related to drive performance or future reliability, but rather a simple software error which resulted in a buffer overrun. We have corrected this problem and posted a software update here: http://www.focusinfo.com/support/downloads.asp We recommend that ALL FS-100 users load this updated software, as there is no harm in doing so even if your unit is set correctly. Please download the new software (follow the software update instructions on the READ ME enclosed in the zip file) and then do a System Reset (follow instructions on page 72 of the User Guide).

June 4th, 2006, 10:35 PM	#47
Douglas Villalba Major Player Join Date: Jul 2005 Location: Miami, Florida, USA Posts: 479	Could you be a little more specific. I can't find the update in that page. __________________ Douglas Villalba - director/cinematographer/editor Miami, Florida, USA - www.DVtvPRODUCTIONS.com

June 15th, 2006, 02:12 PM	#48
Matt McEwen Focus Enhancements Join Date: Oct 2003 Location: Campbell, CA. Posts: 508	FS-100 QuickStart guide now available The FS-100 QuickStart guide is now available for download at: http://www.focusinfo.com/support/downloads.asp It can be found under Product user Manuals.

June 16th, 2006, 12:11 PM	#49
Michael MK Siu New Boot Join Date: Jun 2006 Location: Canada Posts: 24	Firmware / Version # - newer version has lower number? I've downloadedthe FireStore_FS100 Updated from Focus's website and had successfully installed int onto one of our two firestores today. I will be testing the Firestore tomorrow to see if there are any improvements - especially regarding the drop out / drop data issues. However, in checking my version # of my FS-100 (Under Setup --> v 1.0.0.), I noticed that the updated FS-100 shows a firmware / version # that is lower than the FS-100 that wasn't updated: Updated FS-100: 1.0.0.04052606 NTSC FS-100 Not yet updated FS-100 1.0.0.05040706 NTSC FS-100 I am wondering if the numbers are just indicators and that the "newer" firmware does not necessary has a higher firmware / version #. Please help me clarify this. Thank you! Cheers, MK

June 23rd, 2006, 10:09 AM	#51
Matt McEwen Focus Enhancements Join Date: Oct 2003 Location: Campbell, CA. Posts: 508	FS-100 Firmware Update 6/23 Hello, A new version of FS-100 firmware is now available for download from http://www.focusinfo.com/support/downloads.asp (select Software Downloads, and it is currently the top item). This new version solves an issue for Avid users where under some circumstances, the P2 Global Clip ID was duplicated causing the Avid Media Tool to only see certain clips. This version also has the earlier FireWire bridge updater fix included (remember to do a System Reset on FS-100 once you have loaded this version!). Thanks, Matt McEwen

June 19th, 2006, 10:51 AM	#50
Matt McEwen Focus Enhancements Join Date: Oct 2003 Location: Campbell, CA. Posts: 508	Hi Douglas, Under Software Downloads, the new version is the first link in the list. Regarding your question Michael, the last set of numbers are key for the software version number... Updated FS-100: 1.0.0.04052606 NTSC FS-100 Not yet updated FS-100 1.0.0.05040706 NTSC FS-100 On the Updated version, it was a SW build created on May 26, 2006. On the Non updated version, it was a SW build that was created on April 7, 2006. Hope that clears it up. Matt

June 23rd, 2006, 04:21 PM	#53
Matt McEwen Focus Enhancements Join Date: Oct 2003 Location: Campbell, CA. Posts: 508	Early July. Sorry for the delay. Matt

June 29th, 2006, 04:44 PM	#56
Matt McEwen Focus Enhancements Join Date: Oct 2003 Location: Campbell, CA. Posts: 508	FS-100 Thumbnail and Auto-Stream Detect Version 2.0 Update Now Available FS-100 Thumbnail and Auto-Stream Detect Version 2.0 Update Now Available FS-100 firmware version 2.0 is now available as a free download from the Focus Enhancements website. The new version adds P2 thumbnail support and DV/DVCPRO, DVCPRO 50 and DVCPRO HD autostream detect. P2 thumbnail support adds the ability to view a thumbnail of each clip in the import or viewer window on supported NLE systems and the P2 Viewer software. Unfortunately, thumbnails are not viewable on the Panasonic AG-HVX200 as thumbnails over FireWire is not a supported feature of the camera. However, if you would like to view clips back on the HVX200, simply switch the camera to VTR mode, press the thumbnail button on the top of the camcorder and then use FS-100's controls for playback. Autostream Detect will automatically switch FS-100 between DV/DVCPRO, DVCPRO 50 and DVCPRO HD as these modes are switched on the AG-HVX200. Earlier patches that fixed the drop-out issue and missing clips in Avid are included in this version. If you are updating your FS-100 to fix the drop-out issue, please remember to do a System Reset for the changes to take effect. The new version as well as an updated User Guide can be downloaded from: http://www.focusinfo.com/solutions/catalog.asp?id=150

August 30th, 2006, 05:23 PM	#57
Matt McEwen Focus Enhancements Join Date: Oct 2003 Location: Campbell, CA. Posts: 508	New FS-100 Firmware Now Available for Download The latest version of FS-100 firmware is now available for download at the Focus support site ( http://www.focusinfo.com/support/downloads.asp ) under software downloads. This update (2.0.0.04080806) is a maintenance release that addresses the following: * Solves an issue where under certain circumstances, the incorrect frames where flagged in a 720p/24 sequence resulting in these frames missing on import to an NLE system * Solves an issue where audio could be missing at the end of recordings. * Various disk performance improvements * AV/C stream capture to Final Cut Pro is now possible in DVCPRO 50 and DVCPRO HD modes * Minor changes to the behavior of the organize P2 progress bar Focus Enhancements recommends that you install this latest version on your FS-100. If you have additional queries, please visit the Focus support site at: http://www.focusinfo.com/support/. We also encourage you to register your Focus product at http://www.focusinfo.com/rfi/warranty.asp . Thanks, Focus Enhancements

September 15th, 2006, 09:44 AM	#58
Matt McEwen Focus Enhancements Join Date: Oct 2003 Location: Campbell, CA. Posts: 508	Focus Enhancements Announces FS-100 Version 3.0 With HD Native Frame Rate and QuickTi Focus Announces FS-100 v3.0 With HD Native Frame Rate and QuickTime Support New Firmware Upgrade Adds Support for Native 720/24p, 25p and 30p as Well as Native QuickTime Support for DVCPRO HD Recordings CAMPBELL, CA -- (MARKETWIRE) -- 09/09/2006 -- Focus Enhancements, Inc. (NASDAQ: FCSE), a worldwide leader in video production and conversion technology, today announced the version 3.0 firmware upgrade for its popular FS-100 Portable Direct To Edit® (DTE) recorder enabling users to record native 720/24p, 25p and 30p in the MXF P2 or QuickTime file formats commonly used in Apple's Final Cut Pro. Version 3.0 is expected to be available in the middle of the fourth quarter, 2006. Native file format support only records the required frames in a DVCPRO HD stream, eliminating the need to remove advanced pulldown or duplicate frames during import to the edit system. The new 3.0 software version also adds QuickTime support for native frame rates as well as other 720p and 1080i DVCPRO HD record modes for DTE workflow within Apple Final Cut Pro, bypassing the normal P2 import process thereby decreasing workflow. "Focus Enhancements' unique DTE technology is continually evolving to streamline and improve professional video production workflow," said Matt McEwen, senior product manager for Focus Enhancements. "The addition of native frame rate support as well as QuickTime support to FS-100 saves a tremendous amount of time in DVCPRO HD workflow as well as offering extended record time." Using native frame rate recording, users can more than double the record time on the FS-100 from 100 minutes to over 200 minutes. By recording only the required frames, the bit rate for DVCPRO HD recordings drops to as low as 40Mb/s. While camcorders such as the Panasonic AG-HVX200 P2 camera/recorder do not output a stream via FireWire when set to native frame modes (pN), the FS-100 processor is capable of achieving the same native support by only recording the required frames when set to regular 720/24p, 25p and 30p modes. QuickTime support also includes up to four channels of digital audio. The FS-100 3.0 upgrade is expected to be available directly from Focus Enhancements for $39 by the middle of the fourth quarter this year. Focus Enhancements will demonstrate a beta version of the 3.0 software during IBC Expo at the Amsterdam RAI from September 8 - 12 in stand number 9.431. IBC is the leading event for professionals involved in the creation, management and delivery of entertainment content. For more information on Focus Enhancements and its products, please visit www.focusinfo.com.

October 4th, 2006, 10:24 AM	#59
Matt McEwen Focus Enhancements Join Date: Oct 2003 Location: Campbell, CA. Posts: 508	HDV QT Support for FS-4Pro HD, DR-HD100 & FS-C Now Available Focus Enhancements Announces Availability of 2.0 Firmware Upgrade Adding Native QuickTime HDV Support for FS-4Pro HD, FS-C, and DR-HD100 Portable HD DTE Recorders New DTE Technology(R) File Format Allows HDV Camcorder Owners to Import Clips Directly Into Apple Final Cut Pro 5 Using Direct To Edit(R) Technology CAMPBELL, CA--(MARKET WIRE)--Oct 4, 2006 -- Focus Enhancements, Inc. (NASDAQ:FCSE - News), a worldwide leader in video production and conversion technology, today announced the availability of version 2.0 software which adds native QuickTime HDV support to its industry leading Direct To Edit (DTE) FS-4Pro HD, FS-C and DR-HD100 recorders. The upgrade will be available for purchase in disc format on the Focus Enhancements website for $39. 1080i 50/60 and 720p/30 clips recorded in the QuickTime HDV format using FS-4Pro HD, FS-C and DR-HD100 can be used immediately in Apple Final Cut Pro 5 without having to first capture or convert footage. "The FS DTE Technology is the only disk recording solution that allows Final Cut users to record natively in the QuickTime format during acquisition in standard or high definition," said Matt McEwen, senior product manager for Focus Enhancements. "With the addition of QuickTime HDV support, Focus Enhancements' exclusive DTE Technology continues its position as the industry's leading direct-to-disk acquisition solution." Sony, Canon and JVC camcorder owners can now record 1080i 50/60 or 720p/30 video directly to their FS-4Pro HD, FS-C and DR-HD100 in native QuickTime. The file can be imported directly into Apple Final Cut Pro and used immediately in the timeline -- eliminating the time-consuming steps of capturing and converting footage. The FS extracts and decodes the audio from the incoming HDV stream, combines it with the video stream, and wraps audio and video as a QuickTime file. Previously, clips had to be either captured or converted prior to use in Final Cut Pro 5. The FS-4Pro HD and DR-HD100 offer a 40GB (3 hour) or 80GB (6 hour) internal disk drive, while the FS-C offers a 60GB (4 hour) or 100GB (7 hour) disk drive option. These versions feature separate 6-pin FireWire connectors for interfacing with camcorders and computers for editing or file transfer, a backlit status LCD display, and a comprehensive set of control buttons including a navigation pad. The FS-C was designed specifically for Canon HDV camcorders users. The DR-HD100 was designed for JVC GY-HD100 camcorder owners. The FS-4Pro HD 40GB model has a US MSRP of $1,395 while the 80GB model is $1,795. The FS-C is available through Canon in both 60GB and 100GB versions for a US MSRP of $1,395 and $1,995, respectively. The 40GB and 80GB DR-HD100 models are available exclusively through JVC Professional for a US MSRP of $1,495 and $1,895, respectively. The version 2.0 update can be ordered directly from the Focus Enhancements website in disc format for an MSRP of $39. For more information on Focus Enhancements and its products, please visit www.focusinfo.com.

October 4th, 2006, 03:05 PM	#60
Colin McFadden Sponsor: divergent media Join Date: Jun 2004 Location: St. Paul, MN Posts: 201	Rock on Matt. Not to be "that guy," but are there plans for 24F Quicktime support in the FS4ProHD firmware down the line, now that FCP supports it? __________________ Divergent Media Support www.divergentmedia.com