Panasonic Broadcast has released an update of its free AVCHD transcoder that will allow users to downconvert AVCHD content recorded by AVCCAM camcorders into DV files, in addition to DVCPRO HD. Available at www.panasonic.com/avccam, the AVCHD Transcoder version 2.1 will provide AVCCAM users with even more flexibility for work across HD and SD workflow environments.
With the free AVCHD Transcoder version 2.1 update, AVCCAM users can now edit AVCHD clips on non-linear editors that support both DVCPRO HD P2 files and standard definition DV-AVI. The software update will transcode the following AVCCAM formats to DV: 1080i/59.94, 1080i/50, 1080p/29.97, 1080p/25, 1080p/23.98. The software gives users the choice of 16:9 anamorphic, 16:9 letterbox or 4:3 edgecrop display formats. Cross-conversion is not available. The software continues to offer transcoding from AVCHD to DVCPRO HD in both 1080 and 720 formats.
The downloadable AVCHD Transcoder version 2.1 is compatible with Microsoft Windows XP and Vista. Panasonic recommends using a computer with at least 1GB or more of RAM and a dual core or better processor. When exporting clips to a P2 card or an SD card, files should be kept at sizes of 4GB or under. To upgrade from previous versions of the AVCHD Transcoder, users must first uninstall the older version.

For more information about Panasonic’s full range of AVCCAM products and resources, visit www.panasonic.com/avccam.