Image capture apparatus

An image capture apparatus includes a connector, a first terminal resistor having a first resistance value, a second terminal resistor having a second resistance value which is smaller than the first resistance value, and a connection unit. The connection unit is configured (a) to disconnect the second terminal resistor from the connector if a time code signal is input to the connector, and (b) to connect the second terminal resistor to the connector if an external synchronization signal is input to the connector.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

1. Field of the Invention

The present invention relates to an image capture apparatus having a connector configured to allow input of a time code signal and an external synchronization signal (e.g., a Genlock signal) thereto.

2. Description of the Related Art

Image capture apparatuses such as digital video camera each have a plurality of connectors to be fit in a variety of uses. For example, an image capture apparatus that inputs a time code signal has an input connector configured to allow input of only the time code signal, and an image capture apparatus that inputs an external synchronization signal such as a Generator Lock (Genlock) signal has an input connector configured to allow input of only the external synchronization signal. An image capture apparatus that outputs a time code signal has an output connector configured to allow output of only the time code signal.

A plurality of connectors provided in an image capture apparatus hinders downsizing and cost reduction of the apparatus. Mere reduction in the number of connectors, however, does not result in offering of image capture apparatuses fitting in a variety of uses.

Thus, there is a need for a method of reducing the number of connectors in an image capture apparatus while maintaining the ability of the apparatus to fit in a variety of uses. Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 10-69339 discusses a use of one common connector in place of a plurality of connectors for input/output interfaces.

The one connector useful for a plurality of different uses leads to offering, to users, of an image capture apparatus that has a wide range of uses and also achieves downsizing and cost reduction.

Unfortunately, there has been no image capture apparatus known to have a connector that inputs both of a time code signal and an external synchronization signal.

In addition, there has been no image capture apparatus known to have a connector that inputs both of a time code signal and an external synchronization signal and outputs a time code signal.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

The present invention is directed to an image capture apparatus having a connector configured to allow input of a time code signal and an external synchronization signal (e.g., a Genlock signal). The present invention is also directed to an image capture apparatus having a connector configured to allow input of a time code signal and an external synchronization signal (e.g., a Genlock signal) and to allow output of the time code signal. The present invention is also directed to overcome the above-described drawbacks and/or disadvantages.

According to an aspect of the present invention, an image capture apparatus includes a connector, a first terminal resistor having a first resistance value, a second terminal resistor having a second resistance value which is smaller than the first resistance value, and a connection unit. The connection unit is configured (a) to disconnect the second terminal resistor from the connector if a time code signal is input to the connector, and (b) to connect the second terminal resistor to the connector if an external synchronization signal is input to the connector.

DESCRIPTION OF THE EMBODIMENTS

Various exemplary embodiments, features, and aspects of the present invention will be described in detail below with reference to the drawings.

First Exemplary Embodiment

FIG. 1is a block diagram illustrating components of an image capture apparatus100according to first to third exemplary embodiments of the present invention.

In the first to third exemplary embodiments, the image capture apparatus100is a digital video camera, but may be another apparatus. For example, the image capture apparatus100may be a digital camera, a mobile phone, or a mobile terminal.

The image capture apparatus100includes, as illustrated inFIG. 1, a camera unit101, an A/D converter102, a video processing unit103, a recording unit104, a recording medium105, a reproduction unit106, a display unit107, and a control unit108. The image capture apparatus100further includes, as illustrated inFIG. 1, a user interface unit109, a program memory110, a connector111, an input/output unit112, and a memory113.

The camera unit101includes a lens unit, and an image sensor to receive an optical image input through the lens unit. The camera unit101generates a video signal corresponding to the optical image received by the image sensor. The video signal generated by the camera unit101is supplied to the A/D converter102. The lens unit includes a zoom lens to define a range of a scene to be shot, a focus lens to adjust a focus, and an iris mechanism to adjust the luminance of a video signal.

The A/D converter102converts the video signal generated by the camera unit101into a digital video signal. The digital video signal converted by the A/D converter102is supplied to the video processing unit103.

The video processing unit103generates video data in a predetermined format from the digital video signal converted by the A/D converter102. The video processing unit103adjusts the color tone and image size for the video data, and also applies special effect to the video data. The video data generated by the video processing unit103may be moving image data or still image data. The video data generated by the video processing unit103may be provided with audio data. In any case, the video data generated by the video processing unit103is supplied to the recording unit104. The video processing unit103also generates video data for display from the digital video signal converted by the A/D converter102. The video data for display is supplied from the video processing unit103to the display unit107.

The recording unit104codes the video data generated by the video processing unit103, and records the coded video data on the recording medium105. The video data to be recorded on the recording medium105may be coded in any coding scheme. Thus, the recording unit104supports a variety of coding schemes. If video data to be recorded on the recording medium105is still image data, the recording unit104may use a coding scheme such as JPEG (Joint Photographic Experts Group). If video data to be recorded on the recording medium105is moving image data, the recording unit104may use a coding scheme such as MPEG-2 (Moving Picture Experts Group 2), MPEG-4 (Moving Picture Experts Group 4), and H.264.

The recording medium105may be a semiconductor memory, a hard disk device, or a memory card, for example. In the first exemplary embodiment, the recording medium105is removable from the image capture apparatus100, but may not be removable. The reproduction unit106reproduces the video data such as moving image data or still image data from the recording medium105, and decodes the reproduced video data. The video data decoded by the reproduction unit106is supplied to the display unit107.

The display unit107includes a display device such as a liquid crystal display device. If the image capture apparatus100is operating in a moving image reproduction mode or a still image reproduction mode, the display unit107displays the video data decoded by the reproduction unit106on the display device. If the image capture apparatus100is operating in a moving image shooting mode or a still image shooting mode, the display unit107displays the video data for display decoded by the video processing unit103on the display device.

The control unit108includes a memory and a central processing unit (CPU). The control unit108controls the image capture apparatus100according to various programs stored in the program memory110. The program memory110stores various programs to control the image capture apparatus100. The control unit108also performs system control in response to the operation modes of the image capture apparatus100. The operation modes of the image capture apparatus100include a moving image shooting mode for shooting moving images, a still image shooting mode for shooting still images, a moving image reproduction mode for reproducing moving images recorded in the recording medium105, and a still image reproduction mode for reproducing still images recorded in the recording medium105.

The user interface unit109has switches to accept instructions from a user to the control unit108. The switches at least include a power source switch, a shutter switch, a recording (Rec) switch, a recording-pause (RecPause) switch, a selection switch, a setting switch, a cross (arrow) switch, and an input/output mode changeover switch. The input/output mode changeover switch is used to change the current mode of the connector111to an input mode or an output mode. The selection switch, the setting switch, and the cross switch are used to operate a menu screen and a setting screen, for example. These screens including the menu screen of the image capture apparatus100is stored in the program memory110. In the first exemplary embodiment, the user interface unit109may be entirely configured with software. Alternatively, the user interface unit109may be configured with a touch panel.

The connector111can serve as an input connector and an output connector. The connector111may be configured as a Bayonet Neill Concelman (BNC) connector, for example.

While the connector111is in the input mode, the connector111can accept both of a time code signal and a Genlock signal from an external apparatus. In other words, the connector111in the input mode is able to serve as a time code input connector and as a Genlock input connector.

While the connector111is in the output mode, the connector111can output a time code signal generated by the control unit108to an external time code input apparatus. In other words, the connector111in the output mode is able to serve as a time code output connector.

The time code signal in the first to third exemplary embodiments is used to generate time codes for video signals. In the first to third exemplary embodiments, for example, a time code signal conformed to SMPTE (Society of Motion Picture and Television Engineers) 12M is used. Accordingly, the time code signal used in the first to third exemplary embodiments includes a signal conformed to SMPTE 12M, for example. The Genlock signal used in the first to third exemplary embodiments is an external synchronization signal (or external reference signal) used to synchronize a video signal generated by the image capture apparatus100with a video signal generated by an external synchronization signal generation apparatus. Accordingly, the Genlock signal used in the first to third exemplary embodiments is an example of the external synchronization signal (or external reference signal). The external synchronization signal (or external reference signal) used in the first to third exemplary embodiments includes a Genlock signal. The external synchronization signal (or external reference signal) used in the first to third exemplary embodiments is used to synchronize a video signal generated by the image capture apparatus100with a video signal generated by an external synchronization signal generation apparatus.

If the connector111is in the input mode and a time code signal is input to the connector111from an external apparatus, the input/output unit112can generate a time code using the time code signal. The time code generated by the input/output unit112is supplied to the control unit108.

If the connector111is in the input mode and a Genlock signal is input to the connector111from an external apparatus, the input/output unit112can generate an external synchronization signal using the Genlock signal. The external synchronization signal generated by the input/output unit112is supplied to the camera unit101, the A/D converter102, the video processing unit103, the recording unit104, and the control unit108.

If the connector111is in the output mode, the input/output unit112generates a time code signal using the time code generated by the control unit108. The time code signal generated by the input/output unit112is output from the connector111to an external time code input apparatus.

The memory113includes a non-volatile memory, and stores various setting information about the image capture apparatus100. The setting information about the image capture apparatus100contains connector mode information. The connector mode information indicates the current mode of the connector111. In the initial state, the connector111is set to be in the input mode, for example.

FIG. 2illustrates components of the input/output unit112according to the first exemplary embodiment.

The input/output unit112according to the first exemplary embodiment includes, as illustrated inFIG. 2, a 10 kΩ terminal resistor201, a capacitor202, a resistor unit203, and a first amplitude limiter circuit204. The input/output unit112according to the first exemplary embodiment further includes, as illustrated inFIG. 2, a 75Ω terminal switch205, a 75Ω terminal resistor206, a second amplitude limiter circuit207, a time code (TC) output switch208, a time code (TC) signal input unit209, a Genlock (GL) signal input unit210, and a time code (TC) signal output unit211.

The 10 kΩ terminal resistor201is a terminal resistor for time code signals. The 75Ω terminal resistor206is a terminal resistor for Genlock signals, and is smaller in resistance value than the 10 kΩ terminal resistor201. The 10 kΩ terminal resistor201is a first terminal resistor having a first resistance value, and the 75Ω terminal resistor206is a second terminal resistor having a second resistance value which is smaller than the first resistance value.

The 75Ω terminal switch205controls a connection of the 75Ω terminal resistor206. If the 75Ω terminal switch205is turned on, the 75Ω terminal switch205connects the 75Ω terminal resistor206to the connector111. While the 75Ω terminal switch205is ON, the 75Ω terminal resistor206is connected to the connector111. If the 75Ω terminal switch205is turned off, the 75Ω terminal switch205separates the 75Ω terminal resistor206from the connector111. While the 75Ω terminal switch205is OFF, the 75Ω terminal resistor206is disconnected from the connector111. The 75Ω terminal switch205operates as a first connection unit.

The TC output switch208serves to connect the TC signal output unit211to the connector111. If the connector111is in the output mode, the TC output switch208is turned on by the control unit108. If the connector111is in the input mode, the TC output switch208is turned off by the control unit108.

If the connector111is in the output mode, the TC signal output unit211generates a time code signal using the time code generated by the control unit108. The time code signal generated by the TC signal output unit211is supplied to the connector111via the TC output switch208. As a result, the time code signal generated by the TC signal output unit211is supplied to an external time code input apparatus via the connector111and the TC output switch208. The TC signal output unit211operates as a time code signal generating unit.

If the connector111is in the input mode and the TC output switch208and the 75Ω terminal switch205are turned off, an input signal from an external apparatus to the connector111is input to the capacitor202. The capacitor202operates as an alternating-current (AC) coupling capacitor for the input signal input to the connector111. This allows only an alternating current component of the input signal to be supplied to the resistor unit203. The resistor unit203fixes the potential of the alternating current component of the input signal. The first amplitude limiter circuit204causes an amplitude limit, which is separated by the resistor unit203. Accordingly, the amplitude limit of the first amplitude limiter circuit204does not impart any effect on the amplitude of the Genlock signal input to the connector111from an external synchronization signal generation apparatus.

The first amplitude limiter circuit204limits an amplitude of the supplied signal exceeding a first amplitude to the first amplitude to protect the TC signal input unit209. In this way, the first amplitude limiter circuit204protects the TC signal input unit209from a time code signal having an excessive amplitude. The alternating current component of an input signal is input to the TC signal input unit209via the first amplitude limiter circuit204. The TC signal input unit209checks the voltage of an input signal, after the process at the first amplitude limiter circuit204, for a predetermined period of time, to automatically determine a type of the input signal input to the connector111. If it is determined that no time code signal or no Genlock signal is input to the connector111, the GL signal input unit210notifies the absence to the control unit108.

If the connector111is in the input mode and the input signal input to the connector111from an external apparatus is a time code signal, the TC signal input unit209is able to generate a time code using the time code signal. The time code generated by the TC signal input unit209is supplied to the control unit108.

If the connector111is in the input mode and the input signal input to the connector111from an external apparatus is a Genlock signal, the 75Ω terminal switch205is turned on by the control unit108. If the 75Ω terminal switch205is turned on, the Genlock signal input to the connector111is supplied to the second amplitude limiter circuit207.

The second amplitude limiter circuit207limits an amplitude of the supplied signal exceeding a second amplitude to the second amplitude to protect the GL signal input unit210. The second amplitude is set to be larger than the first amplitude not to deform the waveform of the Genlock signal. The Genlock signal input to the connector111is supplied to the GL signal input unit210via the second amplitude limiter circuit207.

If the connector111is in the input mode and the input signal input to the connector111from an external apparatus is a Genlock signal, the GL signal input unit210is able to generate an external synchronization signal using the Genlock signal. The external synchronization signal generated by the GL signal input unit210is supplied to the camera unit101, the A/D converter102, the video processing unit103, the recording unit104, and the control unit108.

FIG. 3is a flowchart illustrating an input/output control process performed in the image capture apparatus100according to the first exemplary embodiment. The input/output control process starts when the image capture apparatus100is turned on. Alternatively, the input/output control process starts when the connector111is updated to the input mode or the output mode. The input/output control process is controlled by the control unit108. The program executed by the control unit108to control the input/output control process is stored in the program memory110.

In step S301, the control unit108obtains connector mode information of the connector111from the memory113, to check the current mode of the connector111. The connector mode information indicates the current mode of the connector111. If the connector mode information indicates that the connector111is in the output mode, the control unit108proceeds to step S302. If the connector mode information indicates that the connector111is in the input mode, the control unit108proceeds to step S304.

In step S302, the control unit108turns on the TC output switch208and turns off the 75Ω terminal switch205. This makes the connector111ready to output a time code signal. In other words, the connector111is set to operate as a time code output connector. While the 75Ω terminal switch205is OFF, the connector111remains disconnected from the 75Ω terminal resistor206. If the TC output switch208is turned on and the 75Ω terminal switch205is turned off, the control unit108proceeds from step S302to step S303.

The time code generated by the control unit108while the connector111is in the output mode is supplied from the control unit108to the TC signal output unit211. The TC signal output unit211generates a time code signal using the time code generated by the control unit108. The time code signal generated by the TC signal output unit211is supplied to the connector111via the TC output switch208. As a result, the time code signal generated by the TC signal output unit211is supplied to an external time code input apparatus via the TC output switch208and the connector111.

In step S303, the control unit108causes the display unit107to display information A1for notifying a user that the connector111is set to operate as a time code output connector. The information A1indicates that the connector111can operate as a connector to output a time code signal. The notification allows the user to know that the connector111is set to operate as a time code output connector. The information A1includes at least one of image, voice, icon, and message. If the information A1is displayed on the display unit107, the flowchart ends.

In step S304, the control unit108turns off the TC output switch208and the 75Ω terminal switch205. This makes the connector111ready to accept both of a time code signal and a Genlock signal. In other words, while the TC output switch208and the 75Ω terminal switch205are OFF, the connector111is set to operate as a time code input connector and also as a Genlock input connector. While the 75Ω terminal switch205is OFF, the connector111remains disconnected from the 75Ω terminal resistor206. If the TC output switch208and the 75Ω terminal switch205are turned off, the control unit108proceeds from step S304to step S305.

In step S305, the control unit108determines whether the connector111has received an input signal. If the control unit108determines the connector111has received an input signal (YES in step S305), the control unit108proceeds to step S306. If the control unit108determines the connector111has not received an input signal (NO in step S305), the control unit108returns to step S301.

The input signal received by the connector111while the TC output switch208and the 75Ω terminal switch205are OFF is supplied via the capacitor202and the resistor unit203to the first amplitude limiter circuit204, and is processed there. The processed signal is input to the TC signal input unit209. The TC signal input unit209checks the voltage of the input signal for a predetermined period of time to determine the type of the input signal. After the determination of the type, the TC signal input unit209supplies the type information of the input signal to the control unit108. The information indicates whether the input signal received by the connector111is a time code signal or a Genlock signal.

In step S306, the control unit108checks the type information of the input signal supplied from the TC signal input unit209, and determines the type of the input signal input from the external apparatus to the connector111. If the input signal is determined to be a time code signal, the control unit108proceeds to step S307. If the input signal is determined to be a Genlock signal, the control unit108proceeds to step S308.

If the input signal input from an external apparatus to the connector111is a time code signal, the TC signal input unit209generates a time code using the input signal supplied from the first amplitude limiter circuit204. The time code generated by the TC signal input unit209is supplied to the control unit108. The control unit108performs control such that the time code generated by the TC signal input unit209is added to the video signal generated by the image capture apparatus100. Consequently, the time code generated by the external apparatus is added to the video signal generated by the image capture apparatus100, and is then recorded on the recording medium105.

In step S307, the control unit108causes the display unit107to display information A2for notifying a user that the connector111is set to operate as a time code input connector. The notification allows the user to know that the connector111is set to operate as a time code input connector. The information A2is information for notifying a user that the connector111can operate as a connector to input a time code signal. The information A2includes at least one of image, voice, icon, and message. In step S307, both of the TC output switch208and the 75Ω terminal switch205are turned off. If the information A2is displayed on the display unit107, the flowchart ends.

In step S308, the control unit108turns on the 75Ω terminal switch205. This makes the Genlock signal input to the connector111ready to be supplied to the GL signal input unit210. In other words, the connector111is set to operate as a Genlock input connector. While the 75Ω terminal switch205is ON, the connector111remains connected to the 75Ω terminal resistor206. If the 75Ω terminal switch205is turned on, the control unit108proceeds from step S308to step S309.

If the input signal input to the connector111from an external apparatus is a Genlock signal, the GL signal input unit210generates an external synchronization signal using the input signal supplied from the second amplitude limiter circuit207. The external synchronization signal generated by the GL signal input unit210is supplied to the camera unit101, the A/D converter102, the video processing unit103, the recording unit104, and the control unit108. The control unit108controls the camera unit101, the A/D converter102, the video processing unit103, and the recording unit104, according to the external synchronization signal generated by the TC signal input unit209. As a result, the image capture apparatus100is able to generate a video signal synchronized with the external synchronization signal generated by the external apparatus, and to record the video signal on the recording medium105.

In step S309, the control unit108causes the display unit107to display information A3for notifying a user that the connector111is set to operate as a Genlock input connector. The notification allows the user to know that the connector111is set to operate as a Genlock input connector. The information A3is information for notifying a user that the connector111can operate as a connector to input an external synchronization signal (e.g., a Genlock signal). The information A3includes at least one of image, voice, icon, and message. If the information A3is displayed on the display unit107, the flowchart ends.

FIG. 4is a flowchart illustrating a connector mode update process performed in the image capture apparatus100according to the first to third exemplary embodiments. The connector mode update process starts when the image capture apparatus100is turned on. The connector mode update process is controlled by the control unit108. The program executed by the control unit108to control the connector mode update process is stored in the program memory110.

In step S401, the control unit108determines whether a first instruction is input to the control unit108to display a connector mode setting screen. A user can input the first instruction to the control unit108by operating the user interface unit109. The connector mode setting screen is a graphical user interface (GUI) screen used to update the current mode of the connector111to the output mode or the input mode. A user can use the user interface unit109to operate the connector mode setting screen. The connector mode setting screen is stored in the program memory110.

If the first instruction is input to the control unit108(YES in step S401), the control unit108proceeds to step S402. If the first instruction is not input to the control unit108(NO in step S401), the control unit108returns to step S401.

In step S402, the control unit108causes the display unit107to display the connector mode setting screen.

In step S403, the control unit108determines whether the current mode of the connector111is updated to the input mode or the output mode. A user can input a second instruction to the control unit108to update the mode of the connector111to the output mode or the input mode by operating the connector mode setting screen.

If the current mode of the connector111is updated to the input mode or the output mode (YES in step S403), the control unit108proceeds to step S404. If the current mode of the connector111is not updated to the input mode or the output mode (NO in step S403), the control unit108returns to step S401.

In step S404, the control unit108updates the connector mode information stored in the memory113, according to the second instruction. After the connector mode information stored in the memory113is updated, the control unit108returns to step S401.

As described above, the image capture apparatus100according to the first exemplary embodiment is able to use one connector therein as one of a time code output connector, a time code input connector, and a Genlock input connector. The structure leads to further downsizing and cost reduction of the image capture apparatus100. The structure also enables the image capture apparatus100to fit in a wide range of uses.

The image capture apparatus100according to the first exemplary embodiment automatically determines the type of an input signal to cause one connector to operate as a time code input connector or a Genlock input connector. This improves usability of the connector111.

The input/output unit112according to the first exemplary embodiment is not limited to that illustrated inFIG. 2. For example, the input/output unit112may be configured without the capacitor202, the resistor unit203, the first amplitude limiter circuit204, and the second amplitude limiter circuit207. The connector111according to the first exemplary embodiment may be configured to operate only as an input connector.

Second Exemplary Embodiment

A second exemplary embodiment is described with reference toFIGS. 1 and 2andFIGS. 5 and 6. The second exemplary embodiment differs from the first exemplary embodiment in the input/output unit112as follows. The other parts of the second exemplary embodiment are similar to those of the first exemplary embodiment, and therefore the detail descriptions thereof will not be repeated.

The image capture apparatus100according to the second exemplary embodiment has the components illustrated inFIG. 1, and therefore the detail descriptions of these components will not be repeated.

FIG. 5illustrates the components of the input/output unit112according to the second exemplary embodiment. InFIG. 5, the components similar to those inFIG. 2are designated with the same reference numerals as those inFIG. 2, and therefore the detail descriptions of these components will not be repeated.

The input/output unit112according to the second exemplary embodiment includes a 10 kΩ terminal resistor201, a capacitor202, a resistor unit203, and a first amplitude limiter circuit204, as illustrated inFIG. 5. The input/output unit112according to the second exemplary embodiment further includes a 75Ω terminal switch205, a 75Ω terminal resistor206, a second amplitude limiter circuit207, a TC output switch208, a TC signal input unit209, a GL signal input unit210, a TC signal output unit211, an attenuation (ATT) switch501, and an attenuator unit502, as illustrated inFIG. 5.

The attenuation (ATT) switch501is used to select one of an attenuation side and a passing side. If the ATT switch501selects the attenuation side, the second amplitude limiter circuit207is connected to the attenuator unit502. If the ATT switch501selects the passing side, the second amplitude limiter circuit207is connected to the GL signal input unit210.

The attenuator unit502includes an attenuator to attenuate the amplitude of a Genlock signal to equal to or less than a predetermined level. The amplitude of the Genlock signal is appropriately adjusted by the attenuator unit502.

FIG. 6is a flowchart illustrating an input/output control process performed in the image capture apparatus100according to the second exemplary embodiment. The input/output control process starts when the image capture apparatus100is turned on. Alternatively, the input/output control process starts when the connector111is updated to the input mode or the output mode. The input/output control process is controlled by the control unit108. The program executed by the control unit108to control the input/output control process is stored in the program memory110.

In step S601, the control unit108obtains connector mode information of the connector111from the memory113, to check the current mode of the connector111. The connector mode information indicates the current mode of the connector111. If the connector mode information indicates that the connector111is in the output mode, the control unit108proceeds to step S602. If the connector mode information indicates that the connector111is in the input mode, the control unit108proceeds to step S604.

In step S602, the control unit108turns on the TC output switch208and turns off the 75Ω terminal switch205. This makes the connector111ready to output a time code signal. In other words, the connector111is set to operate as a time code output connector. While the 75Ω terminal switch205is OFF, the connector111remains disconnected from the 75Ω terminal resistor206. If the TC output switch208is turned on and the 75Ω terminal switch205is turned off, the control unit108proceeds from step S602to step S603.

The time code generated by the control unit108while the connector111is in the output mode is supplied from the control unit108to the TC signal output unit211. The TC signal output unit211generates a time code signal using the time code generated by the control unit108. The time code signal generated by the TC signal output unit211is supplied to an external time code input apparatus via the TC output switch208and the connector111.

In step S603, the control unit108causes the display unit107to display information A1for notifying a user that the connector111is set to operate as a time code output connector. The information A1indicates that the connector111can operate as a connector to output a time code signal. The notification allows the user to know that the connector111is set to operate as a time code output connector. The information A1includes at least one of image, voice, icon, and message. If the information A1is displayed on the display unit107, the flowchart ends.

In step S604, the control unit108turns off the TC output switch208and the 75Ω terminal switch205and causes the ATT switch501to select the attenuation side. This makes the connector111ready to accept both of a time code signal and a Genlock signal from an external apparatus. In other words, while the TC output switch208and the 75Ω terminal switch205are OFF, the connector111is able to operate as a time code input connector and also as a Genlock input connector. While the 75Ω terminal switch205is OFF, the connector111remains disconnected from the 75Ω terminal resistor206. If the TC output switch208and the 75Ω terminal switch205are turned off and the ATT switch501selects the attenuation side, the control unit108proceeds from step S604to step S605.

In step S605, the control unit108determines whether the connector111has received an input signal. If the control unit108determines the connector111has received an input signal (YES in step S605), the control unit108proceeds to step S606. If the control unit108determines the connector111has not received an input signal (NO in step S605), the control unit108returns to step S601.

The input signal received by the connector111while the TC output switch208and the 75Ω terminal switch205are OFF is supplied via the capacitor202and the resistor unit203to the first amplitude limiter circuit204, and is processed there. The processed signal is input to the TC signal input unit209. The TC signal input unit209checks the voltage of the input signal for a predetermined period of time to determine the type of the input signal. After the determination of the type, the TC signal input unit209supplies the type information of the input signal to the control unit108. The information indicates whether the input signal received by the connector111is a time code signal or a Genlock signal.

In step S606, the control unit108checks the type information of the input signal supplied from the TC signal input unit209, and determines the type of the input signal input from the external apparatus to the connector111. If the input signal is determined to be a time code signal, the control unit108proceeds to step S607. If the input signal is determined to be a Genlock signal, the control unit108proceeds to step S608.

If the input signal input from an external apparatus to the connector111is a time code signal, the TC signal input unit209generates a time code using the input signal supplied from the first amplitude limiter circuit204. The time code generated by the TC signal input unit209is supplied to the control unit108. The control unit108performs control such that the time code generated by the TC signal input unit209is added to the video signal generated by the image capture apparatus100. Consequently, the time code generated by the external apparatus is added to the video signal generated by the image capture apparatus100, and is then recorded on the recording medium105.

In step S607, the control unit108causes the display unit107to display information A2for notifying a user that the connector111is set to operate as a time code input connector. The notification allows the user to know that the connector111is set to operate as a time code input connector. The information A2is information for notifying a user that the connector111can operate as a connector to input a time code signal. The information A2includes at least one of image, voice, icon, and message. In step S607, both of the TC output switch208and the 75Ω terminal switch205are turned off. If the information A2is displayed on the display unit107, the flowchart ends.

In step S608, the control unit108turns on the 75Ω terminal switch205and causes the ATT switch501to select the passing side. This makes the Genlock signal input to the connector111ready to be supplied to the GL signal input unit210. In other words, the connector111is set to operate as a Genlock input connector. While the 75Ω terminal switch205is ON, the connector111remains connected to the 75Ω terminal resistor206. If the 75Ω terminal switch205is turned on and the ATT switch501selects the passing side, the control unit108proceeds from step S608to step S609.

If the input signal input to the connector111from an external apparatus is a Genlock signal, the GL signal input unit210generates an external synchronization signal using the input signal supplied from the second amplitude limiter circuit207. The external synchronization signal generated by the GL signal input unit210is supplied to the camera unit101, the A/D converter102, the video processing unit103, the recording unit104, and the control unit108. The control unit108controls the camera unit101, the A/D converter102, the video processing unit103, and the recording unit104, according to the external synchronization signal generated by the TC signal input unit209. As a result, the image capture apparatus100is able to generate a video signal synchronized with the external synchronization signal generated by the external apparatus, and to record the video signal on the recording medium105.

In step S609, the control unit108causes the display unit107to display information A3for notifying a user that the connector111is set to operate as a Genlock input connector. The notification allows the user to know that the connector111is set to operate as a Genlock input connector. The information A3is information for notifying a user that the connector111can operate as a connector to input an external synchronization signal (e.g., a Genlock signal). The information A3includes at least one of image, voice, icon, and message. If the information A3is displayed on the display unit107, the flowchart ends.

As described above, the image capture apparatus100according to the second exemplary embodiment is able to use one connector therein as one of a time code output connector, a time code input connector, and a Genlock input connector. The structure leads to further downsizing and cost reduction of the image capture apparatus100. The structure also enables the image capture apparatus100to fit in a wide range of uses.

The image capture apparatus100according to the second exemplary embodiment automatically determines the type of an input signal to cause one connector to operate as a time code input connector or a Genlock input connector. This improves usability of the connector111.

The input/output unit112according to the second exemplary embodiment is not limited to that illustrated inFIG. 5. For example, the input/output unit112may be configured without the capacitor202, the resistor unit203, the first amplitude limiter circuit204, and the second amplitude limiter circuit207. The connector111according to the second exemplary embodiment may be configured to operate only as an input connector.

Third Exemplary Embodiment

A third exemplary embodiment is described with reference toFIGS. 1 and 2,FIG. 5, andFIGS. 7 and 8. The third exemplary embodiment differs from the first and second exemplary embodiments in the input/output unit112as follows. The other parts of the third exemplary embodiment are similar to those of the first and second exemplary embodiments, and therefore the detail descriptions thereof will not be repeated.

The image capture apparatus100according to the third exemplary embodiment has the components illustrated inFIG. 1, and therefore the detail descriptions of these components will not be repeated.

FIG. 7illustrates the components of the input/output unit112according to the third exemplary embodiment. InFIG. 7, the components similar to those inFIGS. 2 and 5are designated with the same reference numerals as those inFIGS. 2 and 5, and therefore the detail descriptions of these components will not be repeated.

The input/output unit112according to the third exemplary embodiment includes a 10 kΩ terminal resistor201, a capacitor202, a resistor unit203, and a first amplitude limiter circuit204, as illustrated inFIG. 7. The input/output unit112according to the third exemplary embodiment further includes, as illustrated inFIG. 7, a 75Ω terminal switch205, a 75Ω terminal resistor206, a second amplitude limiter circuit207, a TC output switch208, a TC signal input unit209, a GL signal input unit210, a TC signal output unit211, an attenuation (ATT) switch501, an attenuator unit502, and a 10 kΩ terminal switch701.

The 10 kΩ terminal switch701controls a connection of the 10 kΩ terminal resistor201. If the 10 kΩ terminal switch701is turned on, the 10 kΩ terminal switch701connects the kΩ terminal resistor201to the connector111. While the kΩ terminal switch701is ON, the 10 kΩ terminal resistor201is connected to the connector111. If the 10 kΩ terminal switch701is turned off, the 10 kΩ terminal switch701separates the 10 kΩ terminal resistor201from the connector111. While the 10 kΩ terminal switch701is OFF, the 10 kΩ terminal resistor201is disconnected from the connector111. The 10 kΩ terminal switch701operates as a second connection unit.

FIG. 8is a flowchart illustrating an input/output control process performed in the image capture apparatus100according to the third exemplary embodiment. The input/output control process starts when the image capture apparatus100is turned on. Alternatively, the input/output control process starts when the connector111is updated to the input mode or the output mode. The input/output control process is controlled by the control unit108. The program executed by the control unit108to control the input/output control process is stored in the program memory110.

In step S801, the control unit108obtains connector mode information of the connector111from the memory113, to check the current mode of the connector111. The connector mode information indicates the current mode of the connector111. If the connector mode information indicates that the connector111is in the output mode, the control unit108proceeds to step S802. If the connector mode information indicates that the connector111is in the input mode, the control unit108proceeds to step S804.

In step S802, the control unit108turns on the TC output switch208and turns off the 75Ω terminal switch205and the 10 kΩ terminal switch701. This makes the connector111ready to output a time code signal. In other words, the connector111is set to operate as a time code output connector. While the 75Ω terminal switch205is OFF, the connector111remains disconnected from the 75Ω terminal resistor206. While the 10 kΩ terminal switch701is OFF, the connector111remains disconnected from the 10 kΩ terminal resistor201. If the TC output switch208is turned on and the 75Ω terminal switch205and the 10 kΩ terminal switch701are turned off, the control unit108proceeds from step S802to step S803.

The time code generated by the control unit108while the connector111is in the output mode is supplied from the control unit108to the TC signal output unit211. The TC signal output unit211generates a time code signal using the time code generated by the control unit108. The time code signal generated by the TC signal output unit211is supplied to an external time code input apparatus via the TC output switch208and the connector111.

In step S803, the control unit108causes the display unit107to display information A1for notifying a user that the connector111is set to operate as a time code output connector. The information A1indicates that the connector111can operate as a connector to output a time code signal. The notification allows the user to know that the connector111is set to operate as a connector to output a time code signal. The information A1includes at least one of image, voice, icon, and message. If the information A1is displayed on the display unit107, the flowchart ends.

In step S804, the control unit108turns off the TC output switch208and the 75Ω terminal switch205, turns on the 10 kΩ terminal switch701, and causes the ATT switch501to select the attenuation side. This makes the connector111accept both of the time code signal and the Genlock signal from an external apparatus. In other words, the connector111is set to operate s a time code input connector also as a Genlock input connector while the TC output switch208and the 75Ω terminal switch205are OFF. While the 75Ω terminal switch205is OFF, the connector111remains disconnected from the 75Ω terminal resistor206. While the 10 kΩ terminal switch701is ON, the connector111remains connected to the 10 kΩ terminal resistor201. If the TC output switch208and the 75Ω terminal switch205are turned off, the 10 kΩ terminal switch701is turned on, and the ATT switch501selects the attenuation side, the control unit108proceeds from step S804to step S805.

In step S805, the control unit108determines whether the connector111has received an input signal. If the control unit108determines the connector111has received an input signal (YES in step S805), the control unit108proceeds to step S806. If the control unit108determines the connector111has not received an input signal (NO in step S805), the control unit108returns to step S801.

The input signal received by the connector111while the TC output switch208and the 75Ω terminal switch205are OFF is supplied via the capacitor202and the resistor unit203to the first amplitude limiter circuit204, and is processed there. The processed signal is input to the TC signal input unit209. The TC signal input unit209checks the voltage of the input signal for a predetermined period of time to determine the type of the input signal. After the determination of the type, the TC signal input unit209supplies the type information of the input signal to the control unit108. The information indicates whether the input signal received by the connector111is a time code signal or a Genlock signal.

In step S806, the control unit108checks the type information of the input signal supplied from the TC signal input unit209, and determines the type of the input signal input from the external apparatus to the connector111. If the input signal is determined to be a time code signal, the control unit108proceeds to step S807. If the input signal is determined to be a Genlock signal, the control unit108proceeds to step S808.

If the input signal input from an external apparatus to the connector111is a time code signal, the TC signal input unit209generates a time code using the input signal supplied from the first amplitude limiter circuit204. The time code generated by the TC signal input unit209is supplied to the control unit108. The control unit108performs control such that the time code generated by the TC signal input unit209is added to the video signal generated by the image capture apparatus100. Consequently, the time code generated by the external apparatus is added to the video signal generated by the image capture apparatus100, and is then recorded on the recording medium105.

In step S807, the control unit108causes the display unit107to display information A2for notifying a user that the connector111is set to operate as a time code input connector. The notification allows the user to know that the connector111is set to operate as a time code input connector. The information A2is information for notifying a user that the connector111can operate as a connector to input a time code signal. The information A2includes at least one of image, voice, icon, and message. In step S807, both of the TC output switch208and the 75Ω terminal switch205are turned off. If the information A2is displayed on the display unit107, the flowchart ends.

In step S808, the control unit108turns on the 75Ω terminal switch205, turns off the 10 kΩ terminal switch701, and causes the ATT switch501to select the passing side. This makes the Genlock signal input to the connector111ready to be supplied to the GL signal input unit210. In other words, the connector111is set to operate as a Genlock input connector. While the 75Ω terminal switch205is ON, the connector111remains connected to the 75Ω terminal resistor206. While the kΩ terminal switch701is OFF, the connector111remains disconnected from the 10 kΩ terminal resistor201. If the 75Ω terminal switch205is turned on, the 10 kΩ terminal switch701is turned off, and the ATT switch501selects the passing side, the control unit108proceeds from step S808to step S809.

If the input signal input to the connector111from an external apparatus is a Genlock signal, the GL signal input unit210generates an external synchronization signal using the input signal supplied from the second amplitude limiter circuit207. The external synchronization signal generated by the GL signal input unit210is supplied to the camera unit101, the A/D converter102, the video processing unit103, the recording unit104, and the control unit108. The control unit108controls the camera unit101, the A/D converter102, the video processing unit103, and the recording unit104, according to the external synchronization signal generated by the TC signal input unit209. As a result, the image capture apparatus100is able to generate a video signal synchronized with the external synchronization signal generated by the external apparatus, and to record the video signal on the recording medium105.

In step S809, the control unit108causes the display unit107to display information A3for notifying a user that the connector111is set to operate as a Genlock input connector. The notification allows the user to know that the connector111is set to operate as a Genlock input connector. The information A3is information for notifying a user that the connector111can operate as a connector to input an external synchronization signal (e.g., a Genlock signal). The information A3includes at least one of image, voice, icon, and message. If the information A3is displayed on the display unit107, the flowchart ends.

As described above, the image capture apparatus100according to the third exemplary embodiment is able to use one connector therein to operate as one of a time code output connector, a time code input connector, and a Genlock input connector. The structure leads to further downsizing and cost reduction of the image capture apparatus100. The structure also enables the image capture apparatus100to fit in a wide range of uses.

The image capture apparatus100according to the third exemplary embodiment automatically determines the type of an input signal to cause one connector to operate as a time code input connector or a Genlock input connector. This improves usability of the connector111.

The image capture apparatus100according to the third exemplary embodiment is able to control a connection of the 10 kΩ terminal resistor201and a connection of the 75Ω terminal resistor206according to the type of the input signal. This can reduce deformation of the waveform of input signals. In addition, the image capture apparatus100according to the third exemplary embodiment can connect the terminal resistors in the descending order of the resistance values thereof. This configuration appropriately protects the input/output unit112.

The input/output unit112according to the third exemplary embodiment is not limited to that illustrated inFIG. 7. For example, the input/output unit112may be configured without the capacitor202, the resistor unit203, the first amplitude limiter circuit204, and the second amplitude limiter circuit207. The connector111according to the third exemplary embodiment may be configured to operate only as an input connector.

Fourth Exemplary Embodiment

The functions and processes described in the first to third exemplary embodiments can be executed by a personal computer, a micro computer, or a central processing unit (CPU) using programs. Hereinafter, in a fourth exemplary embodiment of the present invention, the personal computer, micro computer, and CPU are collectively called “computer”. In the fourth exemplary embodiment, the programs that are used to control the computer and execute the functions and processes described in the first to third exemplary embodiments are called “predetermined program”.

The functions and processes described in the first to third exemplary embodiments are achieved when the computer executes the predetermined program. In this case, the predetermined program is supplied to the computer via a computer-readable recording medium. Examples of the computer-readable recording medium according to the fourth exemplary embodiment include a hard disk drive, an optical disc, a CD-ROM, a CD-R, a memory card, a read only memory (ROM), a random access memory (RAM). The computer-readable recording medium according to the fourth exemplary embodiment is a non-transitory recording medium.

While the present invention has been described with reference to the above exemplary embodiments, it is to be understood that the present invention is not limited to the disclosed exemplary embodiments. The scope of the following claims is to be accorded the broadest interpretation so as to encompass all modifications and equivalent structures.

This application claims priority from Japanese Patent Application No. 2010-192391 filed Aug. 30, 2010, which is hereby incorporated by reference herein in its entirety.