Smart proxy help

[Rikk]

I've moved my source files and proxy location to an SSD, my source is 1080p/60fps and about 30gb from a gopro. I turned on the smart proxy to try and make editing a bit smoother as it's pretty damn chunky at the moment even with an i7 and 980ti.
I left it running in the background and after 2hrs it had only done about 50% and the proxy files are larger than the source files by 30+% VS9u is only using about 20% cpu while doing this. Is there any way to shrink down the proxy files(or are they meant to be large as they are uncompressed?) but more importantly how can I speed the proxy file creation up as it's terrible.

Thanks

[qtrim]

There's a settings menu that's lets you specify the file type and size. Be default, VS uses its own .upx extension that makes the files only useful to VS. I specify the proxy files to be encoded as h.264, 1280x720, AAC 128. That way I have small portable versions of my files as well as smart proxy file. As far as how long it takes, I just cue up a bunch for a project and let the smart proxy run overnight. The next morning you're all set to go.

[qtrim]

Here's part of a post I wrote a few years ago about managing proxy files

to share what I found about saving access to the proxy files X7 creates and a few tips:
If you set X7 to 'auto generate proxy template' is will create files with a .upx file name , which can only be used by X7, not played by themselves. However, if you uncheck the auto setting you can choose pretty much whatever file format you'd like. I chose this setting for a balance of file size and performance:

MPEG-4 Files
24 bits, 720 x 480, 30 fps
Frame-based
H.264 Main Profile Video: 2000 Kbps
44100 Hz, 16 Bit, Stereo
MPEG AAC Audio: 128 Kbps

This creates a file that is about 25% smaller than the original 1920x1080. The best part is, it has a standard file extension and can be played by any player. So in the process of creating a proxy, you also get a smaller downsized file, which may come in handy outside of VideoStudio. On my system, X7 can create these in a little better than real time.

The data file that contains the proxy file info is called uvProxyMgr_vstudio.dat and is located in the C:\Users\YOURNAME\AppData\Roaming\Ulead Systems folder. The AppData folder is hidden by default in Windows7, so you'll have to unhide it to navigate to it the first time. Note: If any of the source or proxy files have been renamed or removed, X7 will erase this file and thus you’ll lose access to all your previously created proxy’s (this is quite irritating). So, if you’re using a removable drive, you must make sure it is attached and accessible before launching the program.

If you create a bunch of proxy files that you’ll need access to over several sessions, be sure to back up the uvProxyMgr_vstudio.dat file each time you create more proxy’s. It can be restored at any time to the \Ulead Systems\ folder and X7 will once again be able to see and use the files.

Here’s a cool tip: This can also be useful if you edit on two different machines as I do, using a portable drive to move between machines. On both systems, set X7 to created the same type of proxy file; set both systems to use the a proxy folder on the removable drive; and then just move the uvProxyMgr_vstudio.dat file any time you plan to switch systems.

If you never use the proxy’s, then this is all pointless, but I wanted to share for those who are frustrated by the way X7 looses your proxy files access. Bottom line is, backup that uvProxyMgr_vstudio.dat file each time.

[Rikk]

Thanks for the help, I'll have a play

[Rikk]

Just had a try and I can't change the encoder driver or the video format to H264 in the proxy settings.

[qtrim]

I think they just call it MPEG-4 Files, then in the second encoding tab you can select h.264

[Rikk]

Just tried it with Qtrims settings and it blasted through the 1st file in about 10mins so that's a HUGE improvement and the editing is obviously much smoother. Thanks for the help