Exsate VideoExpress: Complete Guide to Features & SetupExsate VideoExpress is a compact, robust video metadata logger designed for professional and indie filmmakers who need accurate, frame-accurate logging of timecode, lens, and camera metadata. This guide covers what VideoExpress does, the core features, supported workflows, detailed setup steps for common camera rigs, tips for reliable operation on set, troubleshooting advice, and best practices for integrating metadata into post-production.
Overview: what VideoExpress is and who it’s for
Exsate VideoExpress is a hardware device that reads and records timecode and ancillary metadata from cameras and lens units, outputting it via SD card (or sometimes other ports depending on model) in formats compatible with popular NLEs and grading software. It’s targeted at:
- DITs and camera assistants who need reliable burned-in or sidecar metadata for editorial and VFX.
- Small to mid-size productions wanting a lightweight, low-power solution for long shooting days.
- Documentary and event shooters who require unobtrusive devices that don’t interfere with camera operations.
Core value: accurate, frame-level timecode and metadata logging in a simple, portable device.
Key features
- Timecode capture and logging (user-configurable frame rates and TC formats).
- Metadata recording (lens data, camera settings, custom notes depending on connection).
- Compact, low-power design suitable for extended shoots.
- Outputs in common formats (CSV, XML, or custom logs) compatible with NLEs and asset-management tools.
- Easy mounting to camera rigs and minimal interference with camera controls.
- Battery or camera-powered operation (model-dependent).
- Simple UI with status indicators for TC lock, battery, and logging state.
Hardware and ports
VideoExpress hardware generally includes:
- Timecode input (BNC or 3.5mm TC depending on version).
- Camera sync ports (sometimes LANC or other proprietary connectors).
- USB or micro-USB port for data transfer and firmware updates.
- SD card slot for on-board logging.
- LED indicators for power, recording, and TC lock.
- Mounting points for shoe mounts and ⁄4-20 screws.
Check the label or user manual for the exact port layout of your specific model.
Supported timecode and frame rates
VideoExpress supports:
- Standard SMPTE timecode formats.
- Common frame rates including 23.976, 24, 25, 29.97 (drop-frame and non-drop), 30, 50, 59.94, 60 fps.
- User selection for drop-frame vs non-drop-frame where applicable.
Typical workflows
- Production logging: attach to camera, capture TC and camera metadata to SD card; import logs into editorial software to relink footage.
- Multi-camera shoots: use one master TC generator or jam-synchronize all VideoExpress units to a master TC source; logs ensure all clips carry consistent TC references.
- VFX and post: export CSV/XML containing timecode and lens info to assist matchmoving and VFX plate prep.
- DIT transfer: copy logs along with camera media for clip metadata ingestion into asset-management systems.
Detailed setup instructions
Below are step-by-step setups for common scenarios. Adjust specifics for your camera model and VideoExpress revision.
1) Basic single-camera setup (camera-powered or battery)
- Mount VideoExpress securely on camera shoe or ⁄4-20 mount.
- Insert a formatted SD card (recommended: Class 10 or UHS-I, 32–256 GB).
- Connect timecode cable from camera TC out (BNC or 3.5mm) to VideoExpress TC in.
- Power on VideoExpress (or turn on camera if it feeds power).
- On the VideoExpress menu, set frame rate to match camera (e.g., 23.976 or 24).
- Confirm TC lock LED is green (or status displays “Locked”).
- Start recording on the camera; VideoExpress should detect recording (if using a record flag input) or log continuous TC—verify that recording indicator on VideoExpress changes as expected.
- At end of shoot, power down and eject SD card, or connect via USB to transfer log files.
Notes: If your camera doesn’t output timecode, you can still use VideoExpress to generate local TC but syncing to other cameras or audio recorders will require a common TC source.
2) Jam-synchronization for multi-camera shoots
- Choose one camera or dedicated TC master (e.g., TC generator/clapper with stable crystal).
- Feed master TC to each camera and each VideoExpress unit via distribution amplifier or BNC splitter.
- On each VideoExpress, use the menu to “Jam” or “Lock to External” and confirm TC lock across all units.
- Verify timecode is consistent across devices before rolling (check matching timecode on camera displays and VideoExpress logs).
- Record—logs will provide matched TC for multicam assembly.
3) Adding lens metadata (if supported)
- Connect lens data cable (manufacturer-specific) between lens servo or metadata adapter and VideoExpress.
- In VideoExpress settings, enable lens data logging and specify camera/lens protocol if required.
- Test by changing focus/aperture/zoom and confirming metadata fields update in a short test clip.
- Export logs to XML/CSV to ensure lens values appear for post workflows.
File formats and importing into NLEs
- VideoExpress typically exports CSV and XML logs. XML is often directly ingestible by NLEs or middleware (e.g., DaVinci Resolve, Adobe Premiere Pro) or via tools like ShotPut or Resolve’s metadata import.
- To relink clips by TC: import camera footage into your NLE, import the VideoExpress XML/CSV, and use the trim/metadata match features to align clips by timecode.
- For VFX: supply the VFX team with per-clip CSV including timecode in/out, lens focal length, aperture, and focus where available.
Best practices on set
- Use high-quality SD cards and format them in a computer or the device as recommended.
- Always confirm frame rate and drop-frame settings on both camera and VideoExpress before shooting.
- Perform a quick test at the start of each day: record a short clip, then import the log to verify correct timecode and metadata capture.
- Keep spare batteries or ensure continuous power if using camera power.
- Label SD cards clearly and transfer logs alongside footage with a consistent folder structure (e.g., /Production/Day01/CameraA/).
- When running multiple cameras, always verify jam sync and re-check after any power cycles.
Troubleshooting common issues
- No TC lock: check cable connections, test with another TC source, ensure matching frame rates and formats.
- Missing metadata fields: verify lens/camera compatibility, check that required protocol cable is connected, confirm setting is enabled in VideoExpress.
- Corrupted log files: use recommended SD cards, avoid removing card while logging, replace card if errors persist.
- Inconsistent TC between units: verify master TC source and re-jam sync, check for loose cabling or intermittent power loss.
Firmware updates and support
- Periodically check Exsate’s official support page for firmware updates that add features or improve compatibility.
- Firmware updates are usually applied via USB or SD card—follow manufacturer instructions precisely.
- If persistent issues occur, collect logs and device info before contacting support to speed diagnosis.
Example on-set checklist (quick)
- SD card inserted & formatted
- Frame rate set on camera and VideoExpress
- Timecode cable connected and TC locked
- Lens metadata cable connected (if needed)
- Power/batteries checked
- Test clip recorded and log verified
Conclusion
Exsate VideoExpress is a practical tool for reliable timecode and metadata capture, bridging camera systems and post-production. Proper setup—matching frame rates, secure cabling, and routine verification—will ensure smooth multicam sync, accurate editorial relinking, and useful lens metadata for VFX and grading workflows.
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