milazzo@bbn.com (Paul Milazzo) (09/13/88)
Readers who recently inquired about computer-controllable VCRs might want to investigate the SONY Frame Code system for U-matic machines. I've never used one myself, but I have a set of brochures describing the 7000 and 9000 series of Frame Code compatible units. Frame Code identifies frames on the tape by an integer from 0 to 299999; the player can then locate frames much as would a videodisc player. To record Frame Code, dub the tape through an FCG-700 Frame Code Generator; it adds the Frame Codes to the vertical blanking interval. It's not clear whether you must use one of their Frame Code VCRs to record the signal. For playback, use a player (e.g. VP-9000) or recorder (e.g. VO-9600) equipped with a BKU-701 RS-232 computer interface. I don't know what capabilities the computer interface offers beyond random access. Paul Milazzo <milazzo@bbn.com> BBN Laboratories Cambridge, MA