Using DV Start/Stop Detection

The DV Start/Stop Detection feature automatically sets markers in a previously captured DV clip each time it detects a Start/Stop (Record/Pause) signal in that clip. Because FCE can use markers to break a clip into individual subclips, you can use the technique outlined here to capture long sections of DV tape and break it into usable subclip chunks.

If you’re accustomed to working in iMovie, DVD Start/Stop Detection is the closest thing to using iMovie’s Import button with automatic scene detection enabled. Instead of getting a collection of separate clips, however, in Final Cut Express you end up with one large clip containing many markers, which can be converted to subclips. For more information, see “About Subclips” in Chapter 8.