Solving Problems of Missing Audio or Video Output

An output device is any device you use to convert FCP's data stream to some format of video, such as DV, SDI, analog composite, or component. Any time you send video to a monitor other than the computer monitors connected to the graphics card of your Macintosh, you are sending to an output device.

A few common factors prevent video or audio from being sent out to your target output device. These factors range from device-specific settings on the output device to FCP's internal controls and toggles for A/V output.

To find the solution to your missing-audio or -video problem, first determine whether both types of output are missing or just one, and whether the output is partially missing or completely absent. Then consult the "Missing Audio and Video Problems at a Glance" table, and find the symptom description most similar to what you're experiencing. The table will point you toward the possible cause of your problem and the section you can read to find out how to fix it.

Missing Audio and Video Problems at a Glance
Type of Problem	Symptom	Possible Cause	Solution
Missing or impaired A/V output	#1: No video or audio output	Incorrect window settings	Double check and correct settings
		Communication error	Restart your Mac
		Log and Capture or Edit to Tape window is open	Close these windows, page 817
	#2: Missing output on FireWire deck or camera	DV device disconnected, off, or not set to receive DV stream	Correct your FireWire device settings, page 818
	#3: Output sent through PCI capture card is missing or impaired	Malfunctioning or incorrect software driver or hardware settings (incorrect media input selected on deck or monitor)	Correct your PCI hardware settings and software driver, page 819