Cine-Check

Cine-Check

The CINE-CHECK’s optical sensor detects pulses in the light source, computes the frequency in either frames per second (fps) or Hertz (Hz), and indicates that frequency on the bright numeric LED display. The optical sensor is activated by pointing the CINE-CHECK toward an AC light source and pressing the On/Off membrane switch. While holding the On/Off switch for a few seconds, the measured frequency is displayed. The displayed units are in fps or Hz (from 1.00 to 99.99), and are determined by the position of the mode switch. These features make the CINE-CHECK the ideal diagnostic tool for measuring the frequency of AC power sources, the scan rate of computer and video monitors, or the speed of motion picture cameras.

Flicker on film is a common problem caused by the rhythmic changing of the light level within the scene. This changing light level is the result of exceptionally small inaccuracies in the frequency of the AC power source or camera speed. The CINE-CHECK is an excellent tool for identifying inaccurate frequencies of the AC power, and allows the user to make necessary adjustments before filming. It only takes a few seconds to measure the frequency of the AC power with the CINE-CHECK. By setting the mode switch to the Hz position and pointing the optical sensor towards the area lit with HMI lights or fluorescent lights, the displayed reading is the frequency of the AC power source.

The CINE-CHECK is capable of measuring the speed of any motion picture camera. A constant light source, such as a flashlight or sunlight, must be directed into the lens or lens port of the camera. By switching the camera on, a light to dark transition is generated by the shutter on the ground glass. With the mode switch set to the fps position and the CINE-CHECK aimed into the eyepiece, the camera speed is quickly measured in frames per second, accurate to 0.01 fps. Unlike patterned LED-oriented speed checkers, the CINE-CHECK displays the camera speed measurements in easy-to-read numerals.

When filming computer or video monitors, it is very important to film at the proper speed. Otherwise, an irritating roll bar will appear on film. To select the proper filming speed, the scan rate of the monitor must be determined. By using the CINE-CHECK, the scan rate is established in just a few seconds. With the mode switch in the Hz position and the optical sensor aimed at a bright area on the screen, the measured reading is the filming speed when using a 180 camera shutter.

The CINE-CHECK is powered by a 9 volt alkaline battery and indicates a low battery voltage by illumination of all four decimal points on the LED display. A protective leatherette carrying pouch with belt loop is included.