JVC Professional Products has introduced the IF-2D3D1 stereoscopic image processor, which works as a 2-D-to-3-D converter and as a 3-D L/R mixer for video content producers. Housed in a rugged, 1RU metal cabinet and compatible with a wide range of HD formats, the IF-2D3D1 is designed to help 3-D content producers improve their workflow, whether they are converting archived 2-D material or shooting original content in 3-D.
With the public’s renewed interest in 3-D for both theatrically released content and beyond, many content producers are looking to repurpose existing 2-D materials to meet demand. Meanwhile, other producers creating new content need an uncomplicated way to check their 3-D footage on location. This single unit is works for both.
The IF-2D3D1 converts 2-D content to 3-D in real time, offering no fewer than four 3-D mixed formats (which combine left-eye and right-eye images) for stereo video output on a compatible device: line-by-line, side-by-side half, above-below and checkerboard. JVC is making this 2-D-to-3-D conversion technology widely available under license. The IF-2D3D1 can also output discrete left and right signals via HD-SDI or HDMI for dual projection or editing. Output can be adjusted for parallax (image displacement) and 3-D intensity — with natural, anaglyph and sequential viewing modes.
For real-time monitoring on location, the IF-2D3D1 combines the left-eye and right-eye images; nothing else is required except a 3-D-capable monitor. A built-in HD-SDI frame synchronizer provides synch for two cameras that lack external synch, plus anaglyph and sequential viewing modes that provide multiple ways to check 3-D content.
Content creation workflow can also be improved through a variety of additional features. The scope feature provides a waveform monitor and vectorscope for comparing both video streams on a display to ensure the settings for both cameras — such as exposure and white balance — are matched. The split feature combines the two video streams on one screen with a moveable boundary, allowing instant L/R comparison. And when one of the two cameras has to be positioned upside down (to ensure correct spacing), the rotation feature ensures both streams can be viewed the right way up and in synch.
