Experience with a prototype motion compensated standards converter for down-conversion of 1125/60/2:1 SMPTE-240 M high definition to 625/50/2:1 video

The authors describe experience gained through the operational use of a motion compensated standards converter for down conversion of 1125/60/2:1 SMPTE-240 M standard high definition to 625/50/2:1 conventional definition video. In particular the use of the equipment during two field trials, at the 25th Montreux Jazz Festival and at the Salzburg Festival, is related. The information derived through these trials has been used to refine aspects of the conversion algorithm and to shape the next generation of converters. The practical realisation of these new converters is also discussed