.bcn — Blackmagic RAW Cache
Blackmagic Design · 2018
.bcn files are associated with Blackmagic RAW video footage and often act as cache or metadata files for faster editing.
Key Features
- Stores essential metadata and cache for Blackmagic RAW footage.
- Enhances playback performance and editing responsiveness.
- Used in conjunction with primary BRAW files.
- Facilitates non-destructive editing workflows.
Best For
- Professional video editors working with Blackmagic cameras.
- Projects requiring extensive color grading and visual effects.
- Optimizing performance when editing high-resolution RAW video.
- Archiving and managing raw footage for long-term projects.
Less Ideal For
- General users looking for simple video playback.
- Sharing raw footage with individuals without compatible editing software.
- Creating final delivery files for web streaming or broadcast.
- Long-term storage without proper cataloging and backup.
Common Use Cases
- Editing Blackmagic RAW footage in post-production.
- Accelerating playback of high-resolution RAW video clips.
- Maintaining flexibility for color grading and image adjustments.
- Managing project files for professional video workflows.
How to Open It
- Open the primary .braw file in compatible video editing software like DaVinci Resolve.
- Ensure the .bcn file is located in the same directory as the .braw file it belongs to.
- Most professional editing software will automatically recognize and utilize the .bcn file.
- Consider using Blackmagic RAW player for direct viewing, though editing requires NLEs.
What is a .bcn file?
The .bcn file extension is associated with Blackmagic RAW (BRAW) footage, a highly efficient and versatile video codec developed by Blackmagic Design. These files store raw image data from digital cinema cameras, preserving a wide dynamic range and extensive color information. Unlike compressed video formats, BRAW files offer greater flexibility in post-production for color grading and image manipulation. The .bcn files are essentially cache or metadata files that store essential information about the BRAW clip, allowing for faster playback and editing.
Programs That Open .bcn Files
| Platform | Program | ||
|---|---|---|---|
| Windows | DaVinci Resolve | Free | Official |
| macOS | DaVinci Resolve | Free | Official |
| Linux | DaVinci Resolve | Free | Official |
Common Problems with .bcn Files
Frequently Asked Questions
The .braw file contains the actual raw image data from the camera sensor, while the .bcn file contains metadata and cache information to speed up editing and playback of the .braw file.
You can delete it, but your editing software may run slower as it will need to regenerate the cache and read the metadata directly from the .braw file each time.
It's generally recommended to keep .bcn files with their corresponding .braw files as they are part of the complete project asset, though the core data is in the .braw.
Technical Details
BCN files are not the primary video data but rather companion files for Blackmagic RAW (BRAW) recordings. They contain metadata and potentially cached information that helps editing software quickly access and interpret the raw sensor data stored in the primary BRAW file. This allows for smoother playback and more efficient workflow when dealing with high-resolution, high-bitrate raw footage.