International projectionist (Jan-Dec 1951)

vides best reproduction. The assigned density values of these areas are: White 0.2 ± 0.1 Gray 1.0 approximately Black 2.0 ± 0.2 The pattern also provides a secondary indication of scanning adjustment and camera-projector alignment. This will greatly reduce the need for "blind" switching; that is, for switching into a film sequence from equipment having only accidental scanning control settings. Much of the foregoing information can be gained during the rolling time of a normally threaded leader. In addition, when stop-frame projection is available (its use is rapidly increasing), the projected pattern permits advance check of the entire electrical system, including effects of beam current, edge-light, backlight, etc. Also, the presence of the "average video" information between cue numbers reduces the tendency of the system to "bounce" as the cues go by. Footage Numbers Changed 2.2: The footage numerals have been changed to project right side up. It has been found that precise Tv program switching has caused these numerals to become of great value to program directors. They can count to their firstframe cue from the rhythm set by the passing numerals, resulting in excellent switching accuracy. Rightside-up projection makes them easier to read for this service. To prevent errors of reading by both production directors and projectionists the "SIX" and "NINE" markers are spelled out. 2.3: The picture threading frame for each 35-mm foot is identical with the old leader, consisting of a full white background with black numerals overlaid. No threading problems are introduced there. However, . a $ingle frame, when projected, does not have enough visual effect to permit positive recognition of the numeral; therefore, each numeral is repeated one frame before and one frame after each threading frame, but with the outer portions of the main target design added. As seen in the illustration, there is no possibility of confusing the threading frame with those added for visual effect. This permits normal threading procedures used in theater projection to continue without modification. Sound Threading Marks 2.4: The 35-mm sound threading marks have been changed to read in plain English "35 Sound," replacing the previously used diamond mark. No explanation of function is necessary, therefore, for persons unfamiliar with the use of a leader, as was the case before this change. The lettering used is right-side up to the projectionist, and on the side of the 10 film occupied by the sound track. No change in threading procedure is required. 2.5: 16-Mm sound threading marks have been added to define the sound scanning position for that service. As in the 35-mm case, the sound mark reads in plain English and occurs on the side of the film next to the sound track. The leader can thus be used for both reduction printing and contact work without change. Previously no indication was provided of proper threading for 16-mm use. Yet it has been found that most projectors can be misthreaded. Past practice, in cases of controversy, has been to count 26 frames and mark the sound position with grease pencil. No problems of this sort need occur with the new leader. Of course, the presence of an indication of correct threading position also increases the precision of ordinary operation. Black Frames Altered 2.6: The black frames following the threefoot marker are slightly changed to a dark gray. The tone value is not altered enough to affect theater projection, but will permit Tv operations to switch into the dark frames without as much "flare" and "black-spot" as now occur. No change in theater practice is required. The density value used for these frames is approximately 1.6 but may vary somewhat, depending upon printing, conditions. In general, the intention is to provide some iconoscope plate illumination to stabilize its operation. 2.7: A small switching cue (see illustration, third frame above lower righthand corner) has been added in the eighth dark frame before the first frame of picture. The cue is the standard mark used for changeovers but confined to one frame. It is to be used as an indication to Tv directors that the picture will start within normal switching reaction time. Since the cue is very small, occurs only on one frame, and is on a part of the film not normally shown in theaters, it will not affect theater practice in any way. The switching cue also gives a clear indication to a cutter when a particular leader has been used too often, resulting in excessive loss of frames due to splicing. A few frames can be lost without serious consequences, but when their number exceeds four or five, that leader should not be re-used. Reel Identification 2.8: Reel identification standards have not been changed. It is worth noting, however, that nonstandard practices have grown up, particularly in Tv filmmaking. American Standard Z22.55-1947 defines proper procedures and should be followed rigorously. The proposed leader is carefully designed to supply needed information throughout its active length. If should not be mutilated by slates or special markings in any position other than the standard allows or its usefulness will be greatly impaired. 3.1: Any new thing is strange at first, inevitably. Every effort has been made to reduce this strangeness by retaining unimpaired the previous functions of the leader. But each new function has introduced some new appearance. It is suggested that evaluation be a slow process, with time for all to become familiar (Continued on page 31) Main body pattern of proposed identification for standard leader. INTERNATIONAL PROJECTIONIST • August 1951