Aaton Cam Xter Users Guide
Here you can view all the pages of manual Aaton Cam Xter Users Guide. The Aaton manuals for Camera are available online for free. You can easily download all the documents as PDF.
Page 72
6.1 CONCEPT AatonCode, Aaton's proprietary in-camera timecode system, is recorded in the Xterà on the edge of the film between the perfora- tions in both matrix and man-readable form. As recorded in the camera, AatonCode contains a six digit production ID, a SMPTE- compatible real time address (full date and time), a camera equip- ment ID and the running speed of the body. Timecode is exposed onto the film by means of seven micro-di- odes, which flash rapidly to form the code as the film rolls...
Page 73
73 AATON CODE an outside source and keep accurate time (within a half a frame) for 8 hours. After 8 hours of keeping time, the yellow diode on the base of the Xterà will flash once every four seconds, indicating that accurate time is no longer guaranteed. In order for the internal clock to operate, the camera must be powered before initialization. The camera is also equipped with an instantly charged supercapacitor buffer that is designed to keep time between battery changes. Keep in mind...
Page 74
There are two ways in which AatonCode can be initialized in the Xterà camera. The preferred method is by means of the OriginC- plus, which inputs timecode in ASCII form. It is also possible for the camera to receive information in SMPTE form directly from a SMPTE timecode device such as an TC audio recorder. Both meth- ods are detailed below. 6.4.1 Using the OriginCplus - Recommended Method• • Program the OriginCplus by inputting Prod ID, accurate date and time of day. Press the # key to scroll...
Page 75
panel of the Xterà will display hours/minutes/seconds when the button marked time is selected. Toggling this button will also display year/month/day, then the production ID, then the equipment #. • Make sure to adjust the ASA selection to the exposure index of the film stock being used. • Disconnect the OriginCplus from the body and proceed to the next device. For further details on the OriginCplus, please refer to the publica- tion entitled OriginCplus - Initializing and Monitoring Aaton Time-...
Page 76
Once timecode has been initialized into the camera(s) and sound recorder, accurate time will be individually maintained in each ma- chine for six hours. It is suggested, however, that new timecode be re-initialized after four hours or so as a precautionary measure. Get into the habit of using the OriginCplus to monitor timecode drift in each device when possible; every 2-3 hours or so is recommended. 6.5.1 Monitoring AatonCode with OriginCplus Assuming that the OriginCplus has been left on during...
Page 77
handled by the camera assistant as part of his / her routine. 6.6.1 Checking the Diodes In order to inspect and clean the gate between magazine rolls, the camera must be set to test position. Not only will test position ro- tate the shutter 180°, but the seven timecode LEDs in the gate will illuminate in a three/four sequence. Use this pattern to occasionally check that all diodes are operational and evenly illuminated. As part of the normal gate cleaning procedure, clean this area with a Q-tip...
Page 80
80 TECHNICAL SPECIFICATIONS Weight 6kg / 13 lbs with 400 ft load and 12V on-board battery. Power 10-14 V, 600 mA, with film à 25°C / 77°F. Temperature range -20°C / +4°F to +40°C / +104°F. Noise level 20 dB -1/+2. Speeds preset speeds of 6, 12, 18, 20, 23.98, 24, 25, 29.97, 30, 36, 40, 48, 60 and 75 fps. Built-in variable crystal control from 3 to 75 fps in 0.001 incre- ments. Image stability Co-planar claw and lateral pressure. Vertical and lateral steadyness to 1/2000 of image dimensions. Viewing...