Film-Tech Forum ARCHIVE: Dolby CP650 processor tech question

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Posted by Al Hopfer (Member # 2986) on 10-25-2006, 08:22 AM:

Hi, my question is regarding reading the block number (time code) off the read-head into a CP650 sound processor and out the Serial Data port (rear of processor). This (I believe) involves using the Dolby Reader Alignment Program (on a PC plugged into this serial port). Basically I need to "turn-on" a data stream of timecode information out this serial port to be used with an external unit. The DA10, DA20 and CP500 outputs this timecode data continuously as a default. It appears this 650-port must be enabled to stream the timecode data (rather than simply Set-up or adjustment data). I do not have a copy of the Dolby Reader Alignment Program software. I assume I need this? And are my other assumptions correct. Thank you. Al

Posted by Frank Dubrois (Member # 3042) on 10-25-2006, 02:08 PM:

I was able to plug my laptop right into the CP650 and get information right away (using CP650 setup software and Dolby Reader Alignment Software). I don't know that theres and on/off mode for the serial port. I say get the software, plug in your laptop, and it should work just fine. You do need the correct software in order to communicate with the unit..if that was your question...simply plugging a laptop into the serial port without and software running that can decode the information simply wont work.

Posted by John Hawkinson (Member # 1135) on 10-26-2006, 12:57 PM:

You can download Dolby's software from the Manuals section of this site. If you have reverse engineered any part of the data format, though, I think we'd all appreciate your posting a summary, if you have it conveniently.

It would be nice to have better software than [Win-]DRAS for routine use, esp. for QC purposes.

--jhawk

Posted by Alexander Smith (Member # 1769) on 10-26-2006, 06:39 PM:

I realise it's a bit far-fetched, but an open-source version of
WinDRAS which isn't fussy about which COM port it uses, displays
all that information such as block number e.t.c. and runs on
your favourite operating system (whatever that may be) would
be a very useful bit of software.

I think it's beyond my programming and reverse engineering
skill, being realistic.

Alex.

Posted by John Hawkinson (Member # 1135) on 10-27-2006, 01:36 AM:

Norm at Dolby sent me this document Interface Document: Synchronization of External Equipment to: Model DA10 Digital Film Sound Processor; Model DA20 Digital Film Sonud Processor; Model CP500 Digital Cinema Processor.

It doesn't address how to make the 650 start, but it does give some overview of the format, as well as telling you how to parse the reel and block numbers.

I've emailed a copy to Brad for the manuals section.

--jhawk

Posted by Fabrice Dubourg (Member # 1635) on 10-29-2006, 12:10 PM:

for the CP650, it's on the ethernet port!