Abstract: When an image signal, which was picked up in a 24p image format and temporarily recorded on a temporary recording device, is read in a 60i image format, the image signal is subjected to a 2:3:2:3 pull-down conversion process so that it becomes possible to omit compressing/expanding processes. At this time, the reading operation is controlled on the basis of the figure of time codes so that the pull-down conversion system at the time of a joining image-pickup process is maintained. In this case, by properly switching controlling methods among a plurality of pull-down controlling methods, it is possible to achieve an image conversion system capable of providing an optimal image conversion process in accordance with desired image-pickup purposes and editing processes.

Abstract: In a videotape recording and reproducing apparatus, when picture signals of the high definition (HD) TV system are reproduced, the picture signals of the HDTV system are fed into a HDTV system output terminal. In addition, a controller operates a down converter in response to a signal from a format determiner, to down-convert the signals into picture signals of the NTSC system or the PAL system, and outputs the converted signals to a NTSC system or a PAL system output terminal. On the other hand, when picture signals of the NTSC system or the PAL system are reproduced, the picture signals of the NTSC system or the PAL system are fed into the NTSC system or the PAL system output terminal. In addition, the controller operates an up converter in response to a signal from the format determiner, to up-convert the signals into picture signals of the HDTV system, and outputs the converted signals to the HDTV system output terminal.

Abstract: When an image signal, which was picked up in a 24p image format and temporarily recorded on a temporary recording device, is read in a 60i image format, the image signal is subjected to a 2:3:2:3 pull-down conversion process so that it becomes possible to omit compressing/expanding processes. At this time, the reading operation is controlled on the basis of the figure of time codes so that the pull-down conversion system at the time of a joining image-pickup process is maintained. In this case, by properly switching controlling methods among a plurality of pull-down controlling methods, it is possible to achieve an image conversion system capable of providing an optimal image conversion process in accordance with desired image-pickup purposes and editing processes.

Abstract: A tape cassette includes a magnetic tape, a cassette housing in which the magnetic tape is housed, and a memory device attached to the housing. The memory device stores features of data recorded in the magnetic tape. Also, the features include image data, audio data, and control data.

Abstract: A multiformat recording and reproducing apparatus comprising a signal reproduction unit for reproducing a video signal recorded in a magnetic medium, a format determining unit for determining a format of the reproduced video signal, a format conversion unit for converting the reproduced video signal into a plurality of video signals in which at least one of the number of scanning lines, a scanning line processing method and a frequency is different, and a signal output unit for outputting the converted video signal. The format conversion unit can convert the video signal recorded in the magnetic medium into a video signal having a plurality of different formats in which at least one of the number of scanning lines, the scanning line processing method and the frequency is different.

Abstract: In a progressive scan video production system with no 30 Hz information dealing with progressive scan TV signals, phase of time code signals of 30 Hz and video signals of the progressive scan TV system is locked. Two VTRs of the progressive scan TV system are connected by a single coaxial cable, and progressive scan video signals are transmitted in a serial digital interlace format. In the second VTR, using time code signals multiplexed to serial digital interface signals, information corresponding {fraction (1/30)} second is detected, field information is generated, video signals and time code signals are phase locked for recording and reproducing.