28Jan/09Off
Snaps Black

Why are there pops, dots, crackles, snaps, and random lines on old black and white videos?
I've always wondered why there pops and crackles; what causes them and how was the problem resolved?
Also, some of the videos you've seen may have been copied from old films and film negs, which were easily scratched and could appear jerkey when the reels were old and worn. Cuts and splices were also obvious when played back.
Some current film and video editing programs actually have filters and effects that simulate this to make new videos look like old time films.