Digital Video Effects, commonly called DVEs, are visual effects that provide comprehensive video image manipulation, in the same form as optical printer effects in film. DVE effects differ from switcher effects (ofter referred to as "analog effects") such as wipes or dissolves, in that they deal primarily with resizing, distortion or movement of the primary visual image.
Early examples of DVE devices found in the broadcast post-production industry include the Ampex ADO ("Ampex Digital Optics"), Quantel DPE-3000, NEC DVE and Abekas A-53D.
DVEs are used in by the broadcast television industry in live television production environments like television studios and outside broadcasts. They are commonly used in video post-production.