Digital Cinema Package (DCP)
Master Digital Cinema Package creation for theatrical distribution. Learn DCP specifications, encoding processes, and delivery requirements for professional cinema projection.
What is a Digital Cinema Package?
Industry standard format for theatrical projection and professional distribution
Video Specifications
- JPEG 2000 compression at 85 Mbps (2K) or 225 Mbps (4K)
- XYZ color space (converted from Rec. 709 or P3)
- 24fps standard, 25fps for PAL regions
- Flat (1.85:1) or Scope (2.39:1) aspect ratios
Audio Specifications
- 48kHz/24-bit uncompressed PCM audio
- 5.1, 7.1, or Dolby Atmos configurations
- Separate audio channels (L, R, C, LFE, Ls, Rs)
- Audio sync verification critical
Package Structure
- CPL (Composition Playlist) defines content
- PKL (Packing List) verifies integrity
- ASSETMAP.xml maps all files
- Encryption and KDM (Key Delivery Message) system
DCP Creation Workflow
Master Preparation
Prepare high-quality master files for DCP encoding
Master: ProRes 422 backup (resolution-scaled), H.264 delivery: ~10GB for HD feature
DCP Encoding
Encode video and audio into DCP format
Encoding rate: 2K @ 85Mbps = ~38GB/hour, 4K @ 225Mbps = ~101GB/hour
Package Assembly
Assemble all elements into complete DCP package
Package overhead: ~5-10MB for metadata files, checksums for integrity
Quality Control
Verify DCP integrity and playback quality
Checksum verification: SHA-1 hashes for all assets, frame-accurate sync check
DCP Format Specifications
2K DCP
4K DCP
DCP Encryption Options
Encrypted DCP
Secure distribution with KDM system
- Prevents unauthorized playback
- Controls screening dates and locations
- Protects content during distribution
- Industry standard for commercial releases
Unencrypted DCP
Open playback without restrictions
- Simpler distribution process
- No KDM management required
- Suitable for festivals and test screenings
- Easier troubleshooting and playback
DCP Storage Calculations
File Size Calculations
- • 2K DCP: ~38GB per hour
- • 4K DCP: ~101GB per hour
- • Audio tracks: ~10-20GB per hour
- • Subtitle tracks: ~1-5MB per language
- • Package overhead: ~1-2GB
Storage Planning
- • Working storage: Source files + DCP output space needed
- • Transfer bandwidth: File size ÷ connection speed
- • Drive capacity: Plan for 80% utilization max
- • Network transfer: 38GB (2K) or 101GB (4K) per hour of content
- • Local storage: Consider source material + output requirements
DCP Creation Best Practices
Technical Excellence
- Use professional color grading for XYZ conversion
- Verify audio channel mapping and sync
- Test DCP playback before distribution
- Maintain backup copies of all source materials
Distribution Planning
- Plan encryption strategy based on distribution needs
- Prepare KDM management system for encrypted DCPs
- Create multiple format versions for different venues
- Document all technical specifications for venues
Common DCP Creation Issues
- • Incorrect color space conversion leading to color shifts
- • Audio channel mapping errors causing playback issues
- • Frame rate inconsistencies throughout the program
- • Subtitle timing and positioning problems
- • Encryption key management and KDM distribution errors
- • Insufficient quality control before distribution
- • Package structure errors preventing playback
- • Inadequate storage planning for large file sizes
Master DCP Creation
Get instant DCP calculations with CineMath. Calculate storage requirements, encoding times, and technical specifications for professional theatrical distribution.