IMX

Setting new standards in MPEG tape

The launch of Sony’s new IMX equipment has been universally praised as a dramatic step forward in broadcasting. But such impressive performance could not be achieved without the development of a new MPEG IMX tape by Sony Recording Media. Because there are several important differences in the mechanical characteristics of Betacam SP and MPEG IMX video tape recorders including tape speed, drum rotation, track pitch and recording density, the need for dedicated media was paramount. Sony’s new tape has been designed to optimise performance of IMX recorders and achieves high durability, improved recording lengths and increased archival stability.

	BETCAM SP	MPEG IMX
Shortest wave lenght	0.65	0.557
Track pitch	86 µm	21.7 µm
Max. Rec. time	90 min	220 min
Drum RPM	3000	1500
Tape speed	101.5 mm/s	53.776 mm/s

High Durability with Low Error Rates

The key to improving tape performance in a new format is to increase recording density. But increasing density magnifies the effect of defects and an ultra-smooth tape surface is therefore essential to keep error rates low. By using ultra-fine metal particles and a new calendaring system, BCT-MX tape achieves a C/N ratio of 40dB with the shortest wavelength of 0.56µm and a super smooth tape surface (see Fig 1). As a result, output is +1dB higher than Betacam SX (see Fig 2).

Enhanced Binder for Excellent Durability

Durability is essential for consistent recording performance. A new magnetic particle treatment (see Fig 3) improves adhesion between the binder and particles by up to 30%, while a uniform dispersion of particles across the tape surface plus a three-dimensional cross-linked binder significantly reduce powder debris (see Fig 4). With these enhancements, BCT-MX tape durability is excellent across a range of environments from studio production to field-based ENG.

Improved Recording Length

To achieve 71 minutes of recording on a BCT 60 MX and 220 minutes on a BCT 184MX (Double Indication on Cassette & Case for both : 525i & 625i Users)

Tape thickness has been slightly decreased from 14.5 µm to 14 µm. As a result, more tape can be loaded on an MPEG IMX cassette shell compared to Betacam SP

Increased Archival Stability

Although tape thickness has been reduced, the base film used for Sony’s IMX tape is stronger and thicker. This results in increased archival stability and prevents deterioration of the base film, which could cause ‘Track Off’ problems when playing back recordings after long periods of storage. Because MPEG IMX uses high frequency recording, the magnetic layer is thinner and allows the signal to be recorded on the tape surface rather than deep within the layer as with analogue formats.
Sony’s new MEPG IMX tape has been designed to bring out the very best from IMX equipment, ensuring superb picture quality, durability and long-term reliability.