How to view files on blackmagic 4k on windows？

​To view files from a Blackmagic 4K camera on Windows, there are several steps you need to take, including proper file transfer, installing the necessary software, and ensuring that your system is capable of handling 4K video files. 

The Blackmagic 4K camera is renowned for its professional-grade video production capabilities. It offers high-resolution footage, providing filmmakers with a cinematic look. However, while the camera itself may be intuitive to use, working with Blackmagic 4K files on a Windows PC may seem complex for users who are unfamiliar with the workflow. 

1. Blackmagic 4K File Formats

Before jumping into the process of viewing Blackmagic 4K footage, it’s important to understand the file formats used by these cameras. Blackmagic cameras typically record in formats like ProRes, Blackmagic RAW (BRAW), and DNxHR, all of which are designed for professional video production.

ProRes is a high-quality intermediate codec often used for editing. It comes in various versions (ProRes 422. ProRes 422 HQ, etc.), with higher quality versions offering better color depth and clarity.

Blackmagic RAW (BRAW) is the proprietary format of Blackmagic Design. It offers a highly efficient way to store high-quality video with the flexibility of raw editing.

DNxHR is a high-definition codec developed by Avid. It is commonly used in professional editing and post-production environments.

You will need the appropriate software and codecs installed on your system to handle these file formats.

2. Installing the Necessary Software

To work with and view Blackmagic 4K files, you will need several pieces of software:

a) Blackmagic Design Software

DaVinci Resolve: Blackmagic Design’s official video editing and color grading software is a powerful tool for working with Blackmagic footage. It supports ProRes, BRAW, and DNxHR files natively and is free to download. DaVinci Resolve also offers advanced tools for editing, color correction, audio post-production, and more.

Download DaVinci Resolve from Blackmagic Design’s website.

Blackmagic Desktop Video Drivers: These drivers ensure that your computer is capable of reading files from Blackmagic devices, including the Blackmagic 4K camera. You can download these drivers from the same website to ensure proper functionality of your camera with your PC.

b) Media Players

VLC Media Player: If you just want to view Blackmagic 4K files without editing, VLC Media Player is a great option. It supports a wide range of video formats, including ProRes and DNxHR. However, it does not natively support BRAW files, so you will need additional software for that.

Download VLC Media Player from VideoLAN’s website.

PotPlayer: Another reliable media player for Windows, PotPlayer supports various video formats and offers advanced playback options, including support for ProRes.

c) Codec Packs

For some formats, such as ProRes or DNxHR, you may need to install additional codec packs to ensure proper playback in standard video players. K-Lite Codec Pack is one of the most comprehensive packs available.

Download the K-Lite Codec Pack from Codec Guide.

3. Transferring Files from the Blackmagic 4K Camera to Your PC

Once you’ve set up the necessary software, the next step is to transfer your video files from the Blackmagic 4K camera to your Windows PC. There are a few different methods for doing this, depending on your preferences and the equipment you have available.

a) Using a Card Reader

Step 1: Remove the SD card or CFast card from your Blackmagic 4K camera. These cards contain the recorded footage.

Step 2: Insert the card into a compatible card reader connected to your computer.

Step 3: Once your PC detects the card, navigate to it through File Explorer and copy the files to your desired location on your hard drive.

b) Using a USB Cable

You can also transfer files directly from the camera to your PC using a USB cable:

Step 1: Connect your Blackmagic 4K camera to the PC via the USB cable that came with the camera.

Step 2: Power on the camera and set it to file transfer mode (if applicable).

Step 3: The camera will appear as a mass storage device on your computer. You can copy and paste the files from the camera to your hard drive.

4. Viewing Blackmagic 4K Files on Windows

Once you have successfully transferred the footage to your computer, you can proceed to view the files. Depending on the file format, different software tools will be required.

a) Viewing ProRes Files

ProRes files are widely supported across most video editing software. If you have DaVinci Resolve installed, you can easily open the files directly in the software by importing them.

Step 1: Launch DaVinci Resolve.

Step 2: Create a new project.

Step 3: Go to the “Media” tab, click on “Import Media,” and select the ProRes files you transferred from your Blackmagic 4K camera.

Step 4: Drag the files to the timeline, and you’ll be able to view and edit them.

For simple playback without editing, VLC Media Player can be used:

Step 1: Launch VLC Media Player.

Step 2: Click “Media” in the top menu and select “Open File.”

Step 3: Browse for your ProRes file and click “Open.” The video will start playing.

b) Viewing Blackmagic RAW (BRAW) Files

Blackmagic RAW files require specialized software to decode properly. DaVinci Resolve is the best choice for handling BRAW files, as it provides native support for the format.

Step 1: Open DaVinci Resolve.

Step 2: Create a new project and go to the “Media” tab.

Step 3: Import your BRAW files by selecting “Import Media.”

Step 4: Once imported, you can view and edit the files in the timeline.

c) Viewing DNxHR Files

DNxHR files are commonly used in professional workflows and can be played in VLC Media Player or DaVinci Resolve.

Step 1: Open VLC Media Player.

Step 2: Select “Media” and then “Open File.”

Step 3: Locate the DNxHR file and click “Open” to start playback.

Alternatively, import DNxHR files into DaVinci Resolve for editing and color grading.

5. Performance Considerations for Viewing 4K Files

Viewing Blackmagic 4K files requires a system that can handle the large file sizes and high resolution of 4K video. Here are some performance tips to ensure smooth playback:

Hardware Requirements: Make sure your computer meets the recommended hardware specifications for DaVinci Resolve. A multi-core processor (i5 or better), at least 16GB of RAM, and a dedicated graphics card with at least 4GB of VRAM are ideal for 4K video playback and editing.

Storage Space: 4K files can take up a significant amount of storage space. Ensure that you have a fast and large hard drive or SSD with plenty of free space to store and edit these files.

Optimize Playback: In DaVinci Resolve, you can lower the timeline resolution for smoother playback during editing. In VLC, you may need to adjust hardware acceleration settings for better playback performance.

6. Troubleshooting Common Issues

Sometimes, users encounter issues when trying to view Blackmagic 4K files on Windows. Here are some common problems and how to solve them:

No Audio: Ensure that the correct audio codec is installed and that the audio is enabled in your media player settings.

Corrupted Files: If the files don’t play or appear corrupted, consider using video repair software to restore them.

File Compatibility: If a file isn’t playing in your media player, check the file format. Some players may need additional plugins or codecs to work with ProRes or DNxHR files.