18933mp4
: Tapes should be stored vertically (on edge) rather than flat to prevent the tape pack from shifting or sagging.
Because modern media preservation often involves digitizing these tapes into (MPEG-4), a "guide" for 18933 involves the steps required to safely handle old tapes and convert them into high-quality digital video. Guide to Magnetic Media Preservation (ISO 18933)
When converting to an MP4 "service file" for easy viewing, the following specifications are standard for preservation-grade access copies: Wrapper : MPEG-4 (.mp4) Codec : H.264 (AVC) Stream Bitrate : 3.5 Mbps – 4 Mbps Resolution : 720 x 480 (NTSC) or 720 x 576 (PAL) Frame Rate : 29.97 fps (NTSC) or 25 fps (PAL) Audio : AAC, 160 Kbps, 48 kHz sampling rate 4. Storage and Handling (ISO 18933 Standards) 18933mp4
: Look for signs of deterioration like "sticky shed syndrome" (where the tape binder degrades), mold, or physical warping.
: A free alternative guide for libraries and archives provided by the National Media Laboratory. : Tapes should be stored vertically (on edge)
: Follow the "3-2-1 rule": Keep 3 copies of your MP4 files on 2 different media types, with 1 copy located off-site. Resources for Further Reading
: Store original tapes in a climate-controlled area with stable temperature and low humidity. Storage and Handling (ISO 18933 Standards) : Look
: The full official standard for magnetic media care.