The video datasheet format is an exciting new way to present technical data. Even people who regularly read datasheets can find the amount of data initially overwhelming. The most unfortunate incident is when a reader overlooks important aspects of the device, and ends choosing an inferior solution–a true lose-lose situation. Video datasheets overcome this situation by presenting the device’s data in an inviting format. It puts all the data into the proper context so the viewer can quickly understand if the device meets his/her needs.
A video datasheet is not simply taking the content of the datasheet and turning on the video camera. Rather, it follows a carefully planned process. Before we explain this process in more detail, here are a couple examples of datasheets for electronic components. The first one is a video datasheet for a DC/DC buck voltage converter. You can compare it to the original datasheet.
The following is a video datasheet for a four channel video driver. Here is the original datasheet for comparison.
Important Aspects of the Video Datasheet
The key to a successful video datasheet is efficiency. The video needs to anticipate the viewer’s next questions and answer them clearly, without wasting time. An effective video datasheet follows important criteria that will keep viewer interest:
1) Get to the point
Don’t waste time on needless introductions, splash-screens, and “dead air.” If the viewer is looking for an answer to a difficult problem, they don’t want to waste time. People on The Web are a click away from going onto another destination. Let the viewer know right away if they are in the right place.
2) Use time efficiently
Make sure the video datasheet has a tight script. There’s no need to reiterate everything that’s in a textual version of the datasheet, but the video needs to give the viewer a thorough understanding of all the pertinent aspects of the product. With this understanding viewers will have all the information needed to determine if the product satisfies their application. Typically a video datasheet need not be more than a few minutes, with a target under 6 minutes.
3) Accelerate understanding with graphics, voice-over and animation
The key advantage of a video datasheet is the ability to convey complex ideas with detailed graphics and voice-over. Clever use of simple animation can be very helpful when explaining intricate operations. A well-constructed video datasheet can be equivalent to sitting down with a knowledgeable instructor who sketches out how a product works.
Video Datasheet Outline
A video datasheet should follow this well-established presentation outline:
- Clearly state the problems/issues
- Show the product will address the problems
- Explain how the product operates
- Illustrate how to use the product in particular applications
- Suggest next steps
This outline works better than simply listing features because it frames the discussion from the viewer’s perspective.