Ok, I don't know JLIP but I'm in the Video/Camcorder/Pro Equipment
business, and I have just looked into a set of service manuals recently. I
have the following to say:

- All older JVC models have a 3.5 mm plug sometimes called a 'remote sync'
plug. This appears on JVC camcorders and VCRs. It serves to synchronize
editing.

  This pin is connected inside directly to the main or control
microprocessor, without any protection resistor in most cases, and JVC
will sell you an original cable for it. Do not use anything else. The
connection is capable to transmit way more than DC as you can imagine,
including any form of serial data, and enough current to destroy the
microchip, but nothing is known of the protocol, except it uses digital
signals on a tristate or ON/OFF base, with the 'middle' level sometimes
used too.

- Pro and semipro JVCs have either a proprietary controller socket with 45
pins on 3 rows, that is very hairy to interface to, or RS232 9-pin or
25-pin D-shell connectors, for serial interface. In the latter case, the
Baud rate and speed are settable by DIP switches inside. The 45 pin
connector is not to be used with anything other than original JVC
controllers and cables (the wiring is not straight through and there are
no protection resistors on some wires in the units).

- DVCAMs have a modified IEEE1394 interface that has the power wires
missing from it. The protocol is, as expected, IEEE1394 ;) The connector
is special (mini - IEEE1394, 4 pins).

- Any other non-standard plugs are to be stayed far away from with
improvisations. JVC has a way of building with very proprietary
technology, which is very good when used with their products, and God help
you if not.

  Panasonic Pro and Semipro units have RS232 9-pin or 25-pin D-shells at
the back. The protocol is ASCII, the Baud rate is selectable with DIP
switches inside, the speed is usually 9600 or 4800 (older units), 7[e|o]1.
The data transfer protocol is packet-oriented and available. It is
amenable for direct connection to a PC and for PICing. It allows high
precision editing and tape motion control, more than enough for most
editing needs, including AB roll, insert editing and more.

  Finally, know that SONY VCRs and camcorders and printers have a
communication protocol known as LANC. Its standard is available (search
the web). It allows the same kind of control to be done, as you describe
for JVC, and is amenable for PICing. The levels are TTL (open collector
party line if I'm not wrong).

  I hope that this helps, and know that you get to use this information at
your own risk, without any warranty, that it represents solely my opinion
as a private individual, and that you can't hold me responsable for any
damage that may incur etc etc.

regards,

Peter (plp@nospam.actcom.co.il)
You know what to remove to send me email.