ExpressDCP utilize OpenCube Technologies for fast, reliable and industry approved Digital Cinema Mastering.

 

We start by creating a Digital Cinema Distribution Master (DCDM), a master copy of the film that has been prepared for cinema exhibition. This means it conforms to the correct frame rate, aspect ratio, colour space and picture format.

One of the most important steps in creating a DCDM is correctly converting the film into the XYZ colour space. We have various methods for doing this but we always prefer to work closely with your grading facility to ensure perfect colour space management using 3D LUTS (look up tables). We are able to provide "clip tests" for clients so that the look of the final DCP can be approved before we move on.

To make the DCP, the DCDM is placed on a high performance RAID array. Using our blazingly powerful Open Cube server, every frame is converted into a JPEG2000 image and the sound into PCM at twice realtime. All the media is then "wrapped" into MXF format along with meta data and other files such as XML subtitles. Optionally, this data can be fully encrypted so that only the intended recipient of the DCP can play it back.

The DCP data is then placed on a CRU DX115 DCI compliant hard drive. These drives are formatted correctly for D-Cinema servers and they are also contained in a special caddy so that they can be slotted directly into the server and played from the drive.

Next the DCP is thoroughly QCd (quality controlled) at Soho Screening Rooms. Clients are encouraged to attend. A full QC report is made by one of our technicians to verify picture and sound quality, data integrity and DCI compliance.

Once the client has signed off on the QC, we are able to make as many copies as required for distribution. We have industrial disk duplication facilities that rapidly copy and verify every drive. These drives are then placed in protective cases and shipped to cinemas around the world. Drives can be hired from ExpressDCP and we handle all delivery and return logistics.

We also provide a complete KDM delivery and support service. The KDM (key delivery message) is a file that we send to each cinema via email allowing them to unlock the film's encryption. This file is made specifically for each D-Cinema server and specifies exactly where the film can be played and how long for.

In case something goes wrong along the way, we provide international 24-hour technical support for cinemas. So you can rest assured that there is always a technician available to solve problems if they arise.