360 Systems TSS MINI-2100 Operation Guide

Download

Multi Format Video Server

Operations Manual

P/N 700-136-0001-02

September 2016

Software Version 5.01

Printed in the United States of America

TSS MINI Operations Manual Page 1

Contents

Preface____________________________________________________________________________ 7

Safety Notices ____________________________________________________________________ 8

Software and Operations Manual Revisions ......................................... 7

Safety Terms and Symbols ........................................................................... 8

General Safety Caution .................................................................................. 8

Personal Injury Precautions ......................................................................... 8

Important Safety Instructions ..................................................................... 9

Product Damage Precautions .................................................................. 10

Product Registration ................................................................................... 10

Product Improvements and Upgrades ................................................. 10

Trademarks ..................................................................................................... 10

Software Copyrights .................................................................................... 11

Video and Audio Copyright Reminder ................................................. 11

Introduction _____________________________________________________________________ 11

Key Features and Benefits ........................................................................................ 14

Applications for 360 Systems Servers .................................................................. 15

Accessory Information ............................................................................................... 16

Installation ______________________________________________________________________ 17

Unpacking ...................................................................................................................... 17

Important Installation Notes ................................................................................... 19

System Cooling ............................................................................................. 19

Power Conditioning ..................................................................................... 19

About Server Software .............................................................................................. 22

Rack Mounting ............................................................................................................. 22

Mounting the Control Module (CXP-5) ............................................... 22

Connecting the Monitor, Mouse and Keyboard ............................... 22

Rear Panel Connections ............................................................................................ 24

Serial Control Ports for Channels ........................................................... 25

GPIO Control .................................................................................................. 26

TSS MINI Operations Manual Page 2

Basic Operations ________________________________________________________________ 27

The Server Desktop .................................................................................................... 27

Launching the Graphic User Interface .................................................. 27

Shutting Down the Server ......................................................................... 27

Graphic User Interface Overview ........................................................................... 28

System Menu Bar.......................................................................................... 29

Show Menu ..................................................................................................... 29

Edit Menu ........................................................................................................ 29

Windows Menu ............................................................................................. 29

Help Menu ...................................................................................................... 30

The Status Bar ................................................................................................ 30

Transport Menu Bar ..................................................................................... 31

Options Menu ................................................................................................ 32

The Playlist Channel View .......................................................................... 33

Playlist Menu Bar .......................................................................................... 33

Options Menu ................................................................................................ 34

Initial System Configuration .................................................................................... 35

Selecting a Sync Reference ....................................................................... 35

Setting the Video Sync Source ................................................................ 35

Making a Recording from the GUI ........................................................................ 38

Record Configuration Options ................................................................ 38

Setting the Record Profile ......................................................................... 38

Input Resolution Selection ........................................................................ 39

Setting the Video Bit Rate ......................................................................... 39

Setting an Audio Delay Time ................................................................... 40

Selecting a Time Code Source ................................................................. 41

Beginning Recording .................................................................................. 41

Making a Crash Recording ........................................................................ 41

Making a Named Recording .................................................................... 42

Monitoring a Recording Source with Input Feed (E-E) Mode ..... 43

Playing a Clip from the GUI ..................................................................................... 45

Beginning Playback ..................................................................................... 45

Drag and Drop clip selection ................................................................... 45

Looping a Clip ................................................................................................ 46

Pausing a Clip ................................................................................................ 46

Ejecting a Clip ................................................................................................ 46

Using Jog ......................................................................................................... 46

Using Go To Location ................................................................................. 46

Using Fast Forward / Rewind ................................................................... 47

Slow Motion Playback ................................................................................ 47

Using Shuttle to Control Playback Speed ........................................... 47

Editing a Clip ................................................................................................................. 49

System Configuration ................................................................................................ 51

Assigning Names to the Server and Transport Channels ............. 51

TSS MINI Operations Manual Page 3

Programming GPIO Outputs .................................................................... 52

Programming GPI Inputs ........................................................................... 53

Configuring the Ethernet Network ........................................................ 54

Setting the Date and Time ........................................................................ 57

Clip List ............................................................................................................................ 59

Renaming and Deleting Clips .................................................................. 59

Sorting Clips ................................................................................................... 59

Filtering the Clip Display ............................................................................ 60

Finding Clips ................................................................................................... 60

Finding Clips Using Wildcards ................................................................. 61

Finding Clips Using Regular Expressions ............................................. 62

Using Playlists ............................................................................................................... 64

The Playlist View ........................................................................................... 65

Creating and Running a Playlist .............................................................. 67

Loading a Playlist (FILE>OPEN) ............................................................... 69

Saving a New Playlist (FILE>SAVE AS) .................................................. 69

Saving an Existing Playlist (FILE>SAVE) ................................................ 69

Stopping a Playlist (STOP) ......................................................................... 69

Pausing Playlist (PLAY/PAUSE) ................................................................ 69

Cueing a Clip (CUE) ...................................................................................... 70

Looping Playlist (LOOP [X] ) .................................................................... 70

Showing First Frame of CUED Clip (SHOW) ....................................... 70

Preparing Next Clip for Playback (NEXT) ............................................. 70

Jumping to Selected Clip (JUMP) ........................................................... 70

Setting Playlist Start Time ......................................................................... 70

Automatic Scrolling to Currently Playing Clip (HOME) .................. 71

Set HOLD Behavior ...................................................................................... 71

Set Maximum Number of Items to Keep ............................................ 71

Enabling As-Run Logging.......................................................................... 72

Viewing, Editing and Archiving Playlists .............................................. 72

Editing Playlists............................................................................................................. 73

Removing a Clip from a Playlist .............................................................. 73

Removing Clips Above or Below the Selected Clip ......................... 73

Inserting a HOLD Into a Playlist .............................................................. 73

Appending a Playlist (FILE >APPEND) .................................................. 73

Changing Duration of Clips in Playlist .................................................. 73

Mapping GPO to Playlist Events ............................................................. 74

Mapping GPIO Inputs to Control a Playlist ........................................ 76

Advanced Topics ________________________________________________________________ 77

System Timing ............................................................................................... 77

The Horizontal (nsec) adjustment is used to set the precise

timing of the start of the frame relative to the reference signal, in

order to match with other contributing signals. The effect is not

Page 4 TSS MINI Operations Manual

normally visible; extreme settings may result in a slight visible

shift of the picture from left to right. .................................................... 78

Using Embedded Audio ............................................................................. 79

Ganging Channels for Synchronized Playback .................................. 80

FTP File Transfers ......................................................................................................... 80

Network Time Protocol ________________________________________________________ 86

Automatic Date/Time Updates ............................................................... 86

Connecting to the Internet ....................................................................... 86

Configuring NTP ........................................................................................... 87

Selecting the Time Zone ............................................................................ 87

Automation Control ____________________________________________________________ 90

Remote Serial Control................................................................................. 90

Configuring the Automation Interface ................................................. 91

Other Automation Options ....................................................................... 93

Tested Automation Controllers ............................................................... 95

Tested Remote Control Panels and Switchers ................................... 95

Remote Workstation Interface _________________________________________________ 96

System Requirements ................................................................................. 97

About the Remote Workstation Interface ........................................... 97

Operations ...................................................................................................... 97

Installation ....................................................................................................... 99

After Installation ........................................................................................... 99

Hard Disk Management _______________________________________________________ 101

About RAID 5 ............................................................................................... 101

Improved Write Performance ................................................................ 102

Managing Disk Arrays .............................................................................................. 103

Maintenance ___________________________________________________________________ 106

Fault Diagnostics ....................................................................................................... 106

Front Panel Indicators ............................................................................... 106

Gigabit Ethernet Indicators ..................................................................... 107

Access To Components ........................................................................................... 107

Opening the Front Panel ......................................................................... 107

Removing the Top Cover ......................................................................... 107

General Handling Precautions ............................................................... 108

Installing/Removing I/O Cards .............................................................. 108

Software Updates from a USB Key ..................................................................... 109

Updating Firmware ................................................................................................... 111

Factory Repair Policy ................................................................................................ 111

Regulatory Certifications ........................................................................................ 111

Safety .............................................................................................................. 111

Radio Interference Compliance ............................................................. 112

TSS MINI Operations Manual Page 5

Product Warranty ______________________________________________________________ 113

End User License Agreement __________________________________________________ 115

Appendix A _____________________________________________________________________ 118

Connector Specifications ........................................................................................ 118

Serial Control Connector Pinout (Optional CXP-5 module) ....... 118

BNC Connectors .......................................................................................... 119

GPIO Connectors (Optional CXP-5 module) .................................... 119

GPIO Connector Pinout ............................................................................ 120

System Board Ports ................................................................................... 122

Appendix B _____________________________________________________________________ 123

Serial Command Protocols .................................................................................... 123

VDCP Command Table ............................................................................. 123

P2 (BVW) Serial Command Table ......................................................... 125

Odetics® Protocol ..................................................................................... 126

Appendix C _____________________________________________________________________ 129

Technical Specifications .......................................................................................... 129

Keyboard Shortcuts .................................................................................................. 131

Appendix D_____________________________________________________________________ 132

Playlist Management Detail ................................................................................... 132

Appendix E _____________________________________________________________________ 135

As-Run Logging Detail ............................................................................................ 135

As-Run Naming Convention .................................................................. 135

Sample As-Run Log ................................................................................... 135

As-Run Log Page Header ........................................................................ 136

As-Run Log Body ........................................................................................ 136

Appendix F _____________________________________________________________________ 137

Mechanical Drawing ................................................................................................. 137

Index ____________________________________________________________________________ 138

Page 6 TSS MINI Operations Manual

Preface

This manual provides installation, setup and operating instructions for 360 Systems’ TSS MINI Multi-Format Video Server. It is organized to provide quick access to topics of primary interest. An extensive Table of Contents is provided at the beginning, and a subject Index at the end, to assist in locating information.

If you have already used other video servers or VTRs, you may find discussion of the basic server to be covering familiar topics. However, it is strongly recommended that engineering managers and staff members operating the server read through this manual. Being familiar with its operation can prevent operational mistakes, and will make all users aware of important setup and maintenance issues.

Software and Operations Manual Revisions

Software revisions are released from time-to-time that introduce new product features, or improve the performance of the product. When such revisions are shipped as a USB flash drive, printed operational notes are included. When revisions are introduced in the course of product production, an updated Operations Manual will be shipped with new servers.

The title page of an Operations Manual indicates its revision number, which should always match the software revision of the server with which it is used. Operations Manuals for the latest revision may be obtained from 360 Systems Customer Service, or from 360 Systems’ web site.

Your comments are welcome. If anything in this manual seems unclear, please let us know by sending an email to support@360systems.com.

Typographical Conventions

The following typographical conventions are used to clarify meaning:

 Connector or indicator labeling that appears on the unit is shown in Arial Narrow Bold.  GUI menu items are shown in Arial Bold.  GUI sub-menu paths are shown by the > symbol.  Text typed into the GUI and Key Commands are shown in Courier Bold.

TSS MINI Operations Manual Page 7

Safety Notices

Safety Terms and Symbols

THE FOLLOWING WARNING SYMBOLS ARE USED IN THIS MANUAL:

ENGLISH ATTENTION: REFER TO OWNER’S MANUAL FOR IMPORTANT

FRANÇAIS ATTENTION: VEUILLEZ VOUS RÉFÉRER AU MODE D’EMPLOI

ITALIANO ATTENZIONE: FATE RIFERIMENTO AL MANUALE PER

ESPAÑOL ATENTCION: FAVOR DE REFERIR AL MANUAL DE

ENGLISH WARNING: ELECTRICAL SHOCK HAZARD. FRANÇAIS AVERTISSEMENT: DANGER DE CHOC ÉLECTRIQUE. ITALIANO AVVERTIMENTO: PERICOLO DI SHOCK ELETTRICO. ESPAÑOL ADVERTENSIA: PELIGRO DE CHOQUE ELECTRICO.

INFORMATION.

POUR UNE INFORMATION IMPORTANTE.

INFORMAZIONI IMPORTANTI.

OPERACION POR INFORMACION IMPORTANTE.

General Safety Caution

 Heed the following important cautions regarding the server in order to avoid personal injury

or equipment damage.

 Only qualified personnel should perform installation and service. Refer to appropriate

sections of this product manual for instruction. Contact 360 Systems Customer Support for further explanation, or to clarify any uncertainty.

 Disconnect the power cord before removing the cover.

Personal Injury Precautions

To avoid electric shock, do not operate this product with covers removed.

To avoid risk of fire or electric shock, replace the power cord only with same type and rating as specified. Replace damaged power cords immediately.

This product is grounded through the grounding conductor of the power cord. To avoid electric shock, do not remove or modify the contacts on the plug.

Prevent the power cord from being walked on, pinched, or abraded.

To reduce the risk of fire or electric shock, do not expose this unit to rain or moisture.

Remove jewelry such as watches or metallic necklaces before servicing this equipment.

Page 8 TSS MINI Operations Manual

Important Safety Instructions

These instructions are required per applicable safety standards.

1. Read these instructions.

2. Keep these instructions.

3. Heed all warnings.

4. Follow all instructions.

5. Do not use this apparatus near water.

6. Clean only with dry cloth.

7. Do not block any ventilation openings. Install in accordance with the manufacturer’s

instructions.

8. Do not install near any heat sources such as radiators, heat registers, stoves, or other

apparatus (including amplifiers) that produce heat.

9. Do not defeat the safety purpose of the polarized or grounding-type plug. A polarized

plug has two blades with one wider than the other. A grounding type plug has two blades and a third grounding prong. The wide blade or the third prong is provided for your safety. If the provided plug does not fit into your outlet, consult an electrician for replacement of the obsolete outlet.

10. Protect the power cord from being walked on or pinched particularly at plugs,

convenience receptacles, and the point where they exit from the apparatus.

11. Only use attachments/accessories specified by the manufacturer.

12. Unplug this apparatus during lightning storms or when unused for long periods of time.

13. Refer all servicing to qualified service personnel. Servicing is required when the

apparatus has been damaged in any way, such as power-supply cord or plug is damaged, liquid has been spilled or objects have fallen into the apparatus, the apparatus has been exposed to rain or moisture, does not operate normally, or has been dropped.

14. Where the MAINS plug or an appliance coupler is used as the disconnect device, the

disconnect device shall remain readily operable.

TSS MINI Operations Manual Page 9

Product Damage Precautions

 360 Systems’ TSS MINI Multi Format Video Server contains hard disk drives and other fragile

electronic and mechanical devices. While designed to be very reliable, it is still vulnerable to shock. Handle with care, and exercise caution not to drop or bump the server as damage to internal components may result. Always turn off power before moving the server.

 Do not obstruct air vents. Maintain an ambient temperature below 30C (86F).  Clean only with a soft cloth dampened with water. Do not spray cleaners or solvents directly

on the product.

CAUTION: Replace the motherboard battery only with the same or equivalent battery type.

Danger of explosion if battery is incorrectly replaced. Replace only with the same or equivalent type recommended by the equipment manufacturer. Discard used batteries according to manufacturer’s instructions. Follow all local laws regarding the disposal of BR and CR Lithium batteries. Batteries should be fully discharged prior to disposal.

CAUTION: Never disconnect AC power to shutdown the server. Doing so may cause errors in the

hard disk array. Should this happen, the array can be reinitialized without any data loss; however, the process may take several hours. Shutdown the system only by momentarily pressing the front panel power button, or through the On-Screen user interface.

Product Registration

Important: As the owner of new capital equipment, you will want to take advantage of

product information, enhancements, upgrades, or notifications issued by 360 Systems. Please visit 360systems.com/support/register or send in your Name, Company Name, Address, Phone Number, Email, Model and Serial Number to support@360systems.com so 360 Systems may remain in contact with you. Mail or fax it to 360 Systems offices in the USA at the address provided below.

Product Improvements and Upgrades

360 Systems reserves the right to make changes and/or improvements to its products without incurring any obligation to incorporate such changes or improvements in units previously sold. Certain features mentioned in this document may not be present in all models. This product is not offered for sale in all countries.

Trademarks

MAXX, Image Server, Multi-Format server, 360 Systems®, 360 Systems Broadcast and Bitfor-Bit® are trademarks or registered trademarks of 360 Systems in the U.S. and/or foreign countries. Other trademarks referred to in this document are the property of their respective owners.

Page 10 TSS MINI Operations Manual

Software Copyrights

Qt is a registered trademark of The Qt Company Ltd. and/or its subsidiaries.

Video and Audio Copyright Reminder

It is illegal to use this product to make copies of copyrighted material without the express permission of the copyright holder.

Introduction

360 Systems’ TSS MINI Multi Format Video Server is a multi-channel, multi-format highdefinition / standard-definition video recorder/server designed for broadcast, production, and Pro A/V applications. It can play three independent video streams at once, and stores between 60 and 400 hours of HD/SD encoded video1 with up to 16 audio channels per video stream. It

occupies just 1¾ ” of rack space. The server’s extensive feature set makes it an excellent choice for VTR replacement, broadcast automation, remote trucks, corporate, educational, house-ofworship, and live entertainment presentations. Each TSS MINI Multi Format Video Server input

At 80 Mb/sec data rate. Actual storage will vary depending on the video resolution and encoding format

of the files.

TSS MINI Operations Manual Page 11

and output can be independently configured for standard definition or high definition at 720p or 1080i.

Seamless Installation in New Facilities

The TSS MINI system smoothes installation in a new setting, providing both SD-SDI and HD-SDI video. Program file transfers are also available over Gigabit Ethernet. Its standard suite of H.264 and MPEG-2 codecs offer flexibility in file based workflows.

Up to 16 channels of Embedded audio are supported on each input and output (depending on formats in use).

The system’s versatile video and audio I /O personality is unique among video servers, and provides a seamless fit in existing facilities, and as part of new build-outs.

Exceptional Storage Capacity

The system contains four 1- or 2-Terabyte drives in its compact enclosure, providing up to several hundreds of hours of storage with exceptional image quality. Storage time varies depending on the file encoding type, resolution and bit rate.

The server’s RAID-5 disk array provides a high level of security for stored program content, by spreading parity information across all drives. The self maintaining array provides added uptime protection, even in the event of a drive failure. The multi-drive array generates data rates required for multiple streams of high definition video.

Compatibility with Automation Controllers

360 Systems’ servers work with automation controllers from many different manufacturers, accepting VDCP, Odetics or BVW protocols for 9-pin control of each server channel. 360 Systems’ business partners provide automation controllers for applications ranging from affordable systems for Pro-AV, up to large-scale broadcast solutions. Contact a 360 Systems application engineer or an automation provider for assistance with your requirements.

Remote Controls

Hardware accessories are available from third-party manufacturers to perform transport control, instant clip replay, slow-mo, and automation. A table of tested controllers is provided elsewhere in this manual. Contact 360 Systems Sales Support team for assistance with a specific application. The optional CXP-5 Auxiliary Interface Module provides serial port interfaces for independent control of each channel. When using the VDCP protocol it can also support control of multiple channels from a single serial port.

With the optional CXP-5, the TSS MINI Multi Format Video Server provides twelve GPI inputs for remote play, stop, and record capability from push-button panels or other GPI-

Page 12 TSS MINI Operations Manual

controlled equipment. Twelve outputs are also provided; these may be used for command acknowledgement (to drive LEDs or logic inputs), or they can output at specific times programmed within a Playlist that is resident on the server.

The system also supports remote control over network using the 360 Systems Remote Workstation software. This is a free application that runs on a PC that allows control of multiple TSS MINI Servers from a single PC, and multiple PCs can connect to and control a single server.

Audio Features

The system provides SDI Embedded audio on all inputs and outputs. Depending on the file

format used, up to sixteen embedded audio channels are available for each video stream.

The Graphic User Interface

The TSS MINI System incorporates a graphic user interface (GUI) which provides quick access to every server function. It is controlled by a standard keyboard and mouse (supplied) and requires only a SVGA display. The full GUI is also available from remote workstations installed on a PC platform.

The GUI displays a control panel for each server channel; these include transport control, clip management, head and tail trimming, and playlisting. The GUI can easily operate the server’s channels without the need for other equipment.

System configuration is clear and straightforward through the GUI. It provides access to encoding parameters, audio options, and time-code settings. Whenever new server features are installed, new set-up parameters and user-interface features become immediately available.

The server comes with Remote Workstation Software, which allows it to be remotely operated from a standard PC over Ethernet; the GUI is replicated at each remote location. Separate work areas can be easily created within a building for ingest, trimming, playlisting, system monitoring or play-to-air.

File Transfers over Gigabit Ethernet

The TSS MINI Multi Format Video Server goes beyond just base-band connections for video and audio. File transfers over Gigabit Ethernet allow the transfer of video content across the room, or across the country, at high speed and low cost. With Ethernet switches and broadband connections, the server’s design enables low-cost networking of broadcast operations from ingest to storage, for editing, play-to-air and archiving.

Reliability Counts

360 Systems has over 40 years of experience manufacturing equipment for television broadcast and other industries that require high reliability. With more than 30,000 hard disk products in service around the world, we understand quality, reliability, and protecting your stored content.

TSS MINI Operations Manual Page 13

Key Features and Benefits

The TSS MINI Multi Format Video Server is designed to deliver outstanding performance and value as a multi-format capable broadcast server. The multi-channel, multi-format capabilities coupled with advanced features make it an excellent and affordable choice for the transition to high definition.

 Three simultaneous video outputs or one input and two outputs  HD-SDI or SD-SDI selectable video inputs and outputs  Each input and output individually configurable for 1080i, 720p or SD operation.  Automatic Up/Down/Cross conversion allows any clip to play seamlessly on any channel at

the selected resolution.

 Up to Sixteen channels of embedded audio available (depending on format selection)  4 or 8 Terabyte internal RAID-5 array with hot swappable drives for hours of storage  Slow-Motion playback forward and reverse  Ganged frame accurate playback of paired Key-and-Fill or 3D video, or multi-screen

presentation.

 Serial control via VDCP, BVW or Odetics protocols with optional CXP-5 Control Module  Compatible with leading broadcast automation systems  FTP transfers over Gigabit Ethernet  VITC or ATC time code  Closed Captions and other Ancillary Data  Accurate head and tail trimming and program segmenting  Advanced Playlisting: Build, edit, store, playback, and loop 3 simultaneous lists  Looping of individual clips in Transport mode, or entire playlists in Playlist mode.  Keyboard shortcuts for control, file management and editing  Set-up and control with familiar Graphic User Interface (GUI)  Remote Workstation Software creates up to four remote worksites  Compact 1-RU (1¾ ”) [44 mm] enclosure, low power consumption  Redundant cooling and hot swappable power supplies  Affordably priced

Page 14 TSS MINI Operations Manual

Applications for 360 Systems Servers

The TSS MINI Multi Format Video Server adds value to many applications in broadcasting, cable distribution, video production, Pro A/V, entertainment and sports. It provides immediate record and playback of any source, lending a spontaneous appearance to broadcasts, presentations and live events.

 News Production – Promos, teasers, intros, news segments, graphics, animation  Play-to-Air server – Playback under automation control  Master Control – Program and commercial playout, station IDs, promos, teasers  Program Ingest – Automated capture of satellite, tape, microwave, and fiber feeds  FTP File Delivery – Deliver news, promos, spots over broadband lines  Program Store-and-Forward – Temporary storage for subsequent delivery  Commercial Insertion – Playout under automation control  Instant Replay – Playback of sports plays, news clips, stills, and graphics  Sports Shows and Events – Replay with Slow-motion playback, highlight packages, player

bios, graphics, promos

 Game Shows – Prizes, graphics, animations, promos  Talk and Variety Shows – Promos, teasers, intros, outros, graphics, animations  Award Shows – Nominees, categories, promos, graphics, animations  Playback of graphics for on-set monitors.  Theme Parks and Casinos – Playout for show backgrounds, event lists, kiosks  Houses of Worship -- Projection displays, program production, broadcasting, multi-campus

services and time delay.

 Colleges and Universities – On-campus networks, production, presentations  Digital Signage – drive projectors, flat-panel displays, kiosks  Entertainment Industry – Road show displays, projection  Mid-market Broadcasting – High performance at an attractive price  Synchronized two-channel playback for 3D video  Synchronize 3 channels for multi-screen presentations and “virtual set” applications

TSS MINI Operations Manual Page 15

Accessory Information

CXP-5 Control Module (optional – provides serial and GPIO)

This 1 RU module attaches directly to the server and provides 9 pin serial ports for each channel to allow for external control via VDCP or Odetics / BVW. Also provides 12 independent GPI’s and GPO’s for external triggering and control.

Maintenance Spares

360 Systems is committed to keeping your server on air. Having spare parts on hand in the event of a fault is a good practice in broadcast and other high-reliability applications. Hard disk spares are particularly important. Please consider these options at the time of your purchase, or shortly after.

 1-TB or 2-TB server-grade hard drive  Hot swap plug-in power supply module  Spare center cooling fan

Page 16 TSS MINI Operations Manual

Installation

Unpacking

Your server has been carefully inspected and calibrated before shipment to allow immediate operation upon installation. Check all items for signs of visible damage which may have occurred during shipment. If any item is damaged, contact the carrier to file a claim.

Keep the packing materials in the event that a unit must be shipped to an alternate location. If the original packaging is not available, due to the product’s weight it should be professionally packed for shipment, with particular attention to protecting the corners.

Package Contents

Confirm that all items on the packing list have been received. Contact 360 Systems if any item is missing.

 TSS MINI Multi Format Video Server  Keyboard  2-Button Scroll Mouse.  HD-BNC to BNC adapter cables  USB flash drive containing backup copy of software and utilities and operations

manual.

 Rack mount side rails and hardware  Power cords (2)

Also, you may have the optional

 CXP serial control and GPI module  CXP interface cable

The server is not shipped with a video monitor. Select a compliant CRT or LCD monitor with a minimum refresh rate of 75 Hz and a VGA connector. We recommend a minimum resolution of 1280 x 1024 but the system will auto adjust for most modern screen resolutions. The monitor must be connected during boot up, if not the system will launch the GUI in a default resolution of 640 x 480. (This does not affect Remote Workstation operation.)

TSS MINI Operations Manual Page 17

If you own more than one server, it may be appropriate to use a single keyboard, monitor, and mouse with a KVM switch to select between servers. Not all KVM switching systems are compatible. Depending on the KVM used, it may be necessary for the KVM switch to supply an active signal to the server at all times, even when switched away from it. When first powering up the server, make certain that the KVM is actively displaying its output from the DVI connector. Failure to do so will cause the system to launch the GUI in a default resolution of 640 x 480. Thoroughly test the KVM switch system that will be used before installation is completed.

The server uses USB connected keyboard and mouse connections.

Page 18 TSS MINI Operations Manual

Important Installation Notes

System Cooling

Optimal server operational temperature is between 68 and 71 degrees Fahrenheit. Although servers can tolerate temperatures up to 86 degrees Fahrenheit, a lower operating temperature will make equipment operate more reliably, and prolong useful life. In the extreme case, excessive temperatures cause rapid equipment failure, and damage which can be difficult and expensive to repair. When many pieces of equipment are mounted in an equipment rack, a considerable amount of heat may be produced, which must be removed efficiently.

Heat in an equipment rack must be removed by forced air. Temperature controlled rooms with independent HVAC units are the most common way to achieve consistent, optimal temperature control. When possible, cold air should be ducted into the bottom of the rack and warm air drawn out of the top.

Check These Points

 Are the ventilation holes in the server free of obstruction?  Can blowers or HVAC system adequately remove heat from the equipment rack?  Have you measured the actual temperature inside the rack? Do this near the top.  Verify that the HVAC system is not on a timer that can shut off on weekends or holidays.  What procedures are in place to protect the equipment when the HVAC system fails?

Power Conditioning

It is good practice to operate an on-air video server from an Uninterruptible Power Source (UPS). All utility power systems experience occasional transient events, including brownouts and dropouts, which are capable of taking a server off the air. It is the station operator’s job to plan for and overcome such contingencies.

The minimum requirement for the 360 Systems video servers is 3 amps.

UPS units designed for handling short-term power line problems come in two varieties:

Change-over UPS Design

This design senses drop-outs and low line voltage, and switches its output to an internal inverter operating from a battery. This UPS is low in cost, and is most often used in noncritical applications such as desk-top computers. A disadvantage is that it may create its own power transients when switching between utility power and its inverter supply. For this reason, 360 Systems does not recommend this type for use with a broadcast server.

Continuous Conversion UPS Design

TSS MINI Operations Manual Page 19

This improved design, sometimes called ‘double conversion’ continuously converts utility power to DC, stores it in a battery, then produces isolated AC power from an inverter. It never switches back and forth to utility power, and has better immunity to input transients, brownouts, and blackouts. Models are available with batteries of almost any size, making the continuous-conversion UPS suitable for transient suppression or longterm operating power in the absence of utility power.

Server Operating Environment

A video server is one of the most critical elements in a broadcast operation. Its installation should safeguard it from every external event that can interfere with it doing the task expected of it. 360 Systems’ engineers have experience with thousands of installations, and have become aware of a number of environmental factors that can adversely affect performance. Two of these have already been discussed: power conditioning and inadequate cooling. Two others, less obvious, should also be considered:

RF Interference by Cell Phones

Many people are not aware that cell phones produce a very high instantaneous power output, even when no conversation is taking place. You may have experienced the effect of a cell phone interfering with a common desk phone placed nearby. Carrying a cell phone into a machine room where it is in close proximity to broadcast equipment and its associated wiring is unwise. Cell phones can interfere with serial control commands, video synchronization, and in some cases can crash the CPU in equipment.

Some major broadcasters prohibit the presence of cell phones in certain equipment areas. 360 Systems believes that the risk of undesired equipment behavior from their RF fields is very real.

Static Discharge

Static electricity discharge is accepted by most people as an inevitable consequence of living in a dry area. It is also a result of floor coverings that may enhance appearances, but are inappropriate for use around critical broadcast equipment. Static discharge can do two adverse things:

 Discharge into a connector can—and will—destroy internal circuitry of equipment. The

result will usually be difficult to diagnose.

 Discharge to equipment frames or wiring can crash a CPU and take the station off the air.

The event may seem random or unrelated to static, but it is clearly a catastrophic event— and one that can repeat indefinitely.

Several steps can be taken to protect equipment from static discharge:

 Do not install critical broadcast equipment (video servers) in a room with carpeting.

Page 20 TSS MINI Operations Manual

 Connect equipment racks directly to the utility safety ground with a heavy copper conductor.  Do not operate equipment which has a lifted safety ground (green frame ground wire).  Consider installing a humidifier to reduce the likelihood of static discharge.

TSS MINI Operations Manual Page 21

About Server Software

The TSS MINI Multi Format Video Server is shipped with its application programs and operating system installed. The first time that it is started, it must be connected to a keyboard, monitor and mouse. The server will ask you to accept the Software Licensing Agreement before it will operate. This screen will only appear during the initial startup. Refer to the Maintenance chapter of this manual if it becomes necessary to reinstall software.

Rack Mounting

In North America, the server will usually be mounted in a 19” rack enclosure having 10-32 tapped holes. In countries with metric standards, the user will need to supply appropriate fasteners.

Remove the front panel to expose the rack screw slots. Fasten the server into the rack using the #10 flat-head Phillips screws (provided for North America). Replace the front panel and tighten its access screws until just snug.

Cables attached to the rear of the server should be supported by the rack mounting rails. Do not support substantial cable weight from the server.

Mounting the Control Module (CXP-5)

The optional CXP-5 module may be rack mounted above or below the TSS MINI Multi Format Video Server, on the front or rear of the rack. Four elongated screw holes are provided to facilitate rack mounting of the CXP-5 Module. The CXP-5 module is connected to the server using the supplied USB cable. Connect one end of the cable to the mating connector on the rear of the CXP-5 Module. Connect the other end to either of the USB connectors on the rear panel of the server. Refer to

Figure 2 on page 26 for information about connecting GPI and automation signals to the CXP-5 Module.

NOTE: Do not connect the CXP-5 module through a USB hub. If using a USB keyboard and mouse, these may be connected using a USB hub.

Connecting the Monitor, Mouse and Keyboard

The TSS MINI Multi Format Video Server is not shipped with a video monitor. Select a compliant CRT or LCD monitor with a minimum refresh rate of 60 Hz and a VGA connector. We recommend a minimum resolution of 1280 x 1024 but the system will auto adjust for most modern screen resolutions. Note that the system may not start correctly if an

Page 22 TSS MINI Operations Manual

unsuitable monitor is connected. Connect the monitor to the VGA port on the rear of the unit using a VGA cable from the monitor or KVM. Refer to Figure 1.

Connect the keyboard and mouse to the available USB ports. Refer to Figure 1.

NOTE: If using a CXP-5 control module, do not connect the CXP-5 control module to any USB hub.

If you own more than one TSS MINI Server, it may be appropriate to use a single keyboard, monitor, and mouse with a KVM switch to select between servers. Not all KVM switching systems are compatible. The KVM switch must supply an active signal to the server at all times, even when switched away from it. When first powering up the system, it is advisable use only the supplied keyboard and mouse directly connected. Then test the KVM switch system that will be used thoroughly before installation is completed.

Occasionally some KVMs will cause the mouse to stop responding or to behave erratically. Mouse operation can be reset by the keyboard sequence Control+Alt+F12 (the screen will go black) followed by Control+Alt+F7.

TSS MINI Operations Manual Page 23

Rear Panel Connections

Figure 1 indicates the Rear Panel connections on TSS MINI Multi Format Video Server. Each

connection is described briefly in the following text. Make all connections appropriate to other equipment before applying power to the system.

Figure 1 - Rear Panel Detail

Rear Panel Connections to the TSS MINI Multi Format Video Server

1. SDI Video I/O

2. Power Supply Module 1

3. Power Supply Module 2

4. USB ports for Keyboard / Mouse

5. Gigabit Ethernet port 1

6. Gigabit Ethernet port 2

7. VGA Video monitor output

SDI Video Inputs

TSS MINI Servers with input channel(s) will record digital video through the assigned HDBNC input(s) (High Density BNC) for either HD-SDI (serial digital per SMPTE 292M) or SD-SDI (per SMPTE 259M).

Video Outputs

TSS MINI Servers with output channel(s) have assigned HD-BNC connections that can be configured for HD-SDI operation (per SMPTE 292M) or SD-SDI operation (per SMPTE 259M).

Genlock Sync Reference

The TSS MINI Multi Format Video Server is designed to be referenced to an external genlock source in the form of RS-170 black/burst, or Tri-level sync. The GENLOCK input provides a

Page 24 TSS MINI Operations Manual

fixed 75-ohm termination. An internal crystal reference is also provided so that the server can be used as a stand-alone player.

Gigabit Ethernet Port

A Gigabit Ethernet port is provided. Ports 1 and 2 may be used to access the server for the transfer or retrieval of files. The 10GB Ports 1 and 2 are reserved for future use.

Keyboard

Attach the keyboard to an available USB port.

Mouse

A two-button scroll mouse is provided with the system. Plug the mouse into an available USB port. Mouse operation can be reset by the keyboard sequence Control+Alt+F12 (the screen will go black) followed by Control+Alt+F7.

Monitor

A compliant computer monitor may be connected to the video port directly using a VGA cable. The resolution is automatically determined by the monitor connection. NOTE: The monitor must be turned on and active before booting the server. If no monitor is detected, the default screen resolution of 640 x 480 will be used. The GUI is best-viewed on 19-inch or larger monitors. 360 Systems does not provide monitors for the server.

Serial Port

The rear panel serial port is not used. Make no connection.

USB Ports

The rear panel USB ports may be used to connect a keyboard, mouse or CXP-5 module. Do not use a USB hub to operate the CXP-5 module.

Power Switch (not shown in Figure 2)

Shutdown the system only by momentarily pressing the front panel power button, or through the SHUTDOWN command on the On-Screen user interface.

PRESSING THE FRONT PANEL POWER BUTTON FOR FOUR SECONDS WILL FORCE A SHUTDOWN. USE THIS METHOD ONLY IF THE UNIT IS NOT RESPONDING AS DAMAGE TO THE DATA ON THE RAID SYSTEM MAY RESULT.

Serial Control Ports for Channels

Each of the four 9-pin “D” connectors on the CXP-5 module provides independent control of the assigned video channel(s). They accept serial commands in VDCP, BVW or Odetics protocol. The multiple serial ports allow simultaneous connection of an automation controller and a desktop controller. See the chapter on Automation Control for further details.

TSS MINI Operations Manual Page 25

Most broadcast automation systems and some remote control panels employ VDCP protocol. Many controllers used for transport, instant replay, and edit control employ BVW or Odetics protocol.

Note that the server does not respond or provide status for all messages that are specific to tape machines. As such it may not operate with editing systems designed for use with tape machines.

Figure 2 – CXP-5 Module Connectors

GPIO Control

The CXP-5 module provides twelve GPIO inputs for control of machine functions, which appear on two 25-pin GPIO connectors. These “General Purpose Inputs” can be connected to switch contacts or to an open-collector transistor output. GPI inputs are programmable, and can provide machine control such as PLAY, STOP, or RECORD through simple external switches.

The CXP-5 also provides twelve GPIO Outputs which may be used to confirm that a command has been received, to trigger operations on external equipment, or provide warning indications for system errors. The function of these open-collector outputs is programmable; they may be used to operate an LED, or they can drive a suitable logic input. The pin-out for the GPIO connectors will be found in APPENDIX A.

Page 26 TSS MINI Operations Manual

Basic Operations

This section introduces the Graphic User Interface (GUI), its menus and operating controls.

The graphic user interface is the primary way to manage server operations. With it, you can control recording and playout, set up video and audio parameters, configure the network and remote control ports, edit clips and make playlists.

The GUI is operated with a keyboard, mouse, and monitor connected to the server rear panel. During the first power on the system must be connected to a keyboard, monitor and mouse. The server will ask you to accept the Software Licensing Agreement before it will operate. This screen will only appear during the initial startup.

The Server Desktop

The server desktop is similar to many computer graphic interfaces. A task bar and start menu appear at the bottom of the screen. Use the Start menu button to launch applications, manage the system or to shut down the server.

Launching the Graphic User Interface

The GUI launches automatically during start up. If it has been closed, click Start, then TSS MINI GUI to re-launch it. The GUI window can be moved or minimized as desired.

Shutting Down the Server

Click Start, then Shutdown, to begin an orderly shutdown, or Full Restart to do an orderly shutdown and restart (without a full power down).

Alternatively, momentarily pressing the front panel power button will cause the system to begin an orderly shutdown. The server will acknowledge the button press with an audible beep and the front panel lights will begin to flash together. Any operation in progress will be halted, and any unsaved work will be lost.

In most cases the power will shut off automatically. However, if the front panel lights begin to blink, it means that the file system has been properly closed, and it is safe to force the power off by holding the front panel button in for 4 seconds.

If the system has stopped responding to commands and will not reset by pressing the front panel button, press and hold the button for four seconds to force a power down. Wait 5 seconds, and then the system may be restarted with another press of this button.

DO NOT disconnect AC power to shutdown the server. Doing so may cause loss of unsaved data, and may require the RAID drive array to re-synchronize – a process that could take several hours. Shutdown the system only by momentarily pressing the front panel Power button, or through the GUI.

The Quick Restart option in the Start menu allows the GUI and video playback application to be restarted without restarting the entire operating system.

TSS MINI Operations Manual Page 27

Graphic User Interface Overview

Once the server has successfully powered up, the VGA monitor will display the GUI of Figure 3. This view provides:

 A main System Menu bar for configuration operations  A Status Bar that displays various system messages  Three or four (Model dependent) VTR-like transport controls, one for each video

channel

Figure 3: Graphic User Interface with Clip Transport Windows

The input monitor will read Video In OK and display the received video resolution:

1080i, 720p, SD or NO INPUT.

When using the mouse, all buttons of all channels will operate immediately, without first selecting a window to activate it. (Channel 1 is active in the illustration above, indicated by its blue title bar.)

When using key commands, the active window is the only transport that will respond. Use the CTRL+TAB key combination to change the active window in rotation, or use the mouse to activate the desired window by clicking anywhere in it.

Page 28 TSS MINI Operations Manual

Windows can be moved, resized and overlapped by dragging the title bar, window edges, or the resize tab at the lower right corner of a window. The CTRL+TAB key combination will also place the activated window in front of all other windows.

System Menu Bar

The System Menu bar contains four menus: Show, Edit, Windows and Help.

Show Menu

Contains selections for the Three or Four (Model dependent) Channels and the clip management windows.

Channel Window Selection

Channel 1 Channel 2

Opens the specified window if it is closed, brings it to the top and activates it.

Key Commands – F1, F2

Clip List

Opens the Clip List window if it is closed, brings it to the top and activates it. See page

29.

Key Command – Ctrl+L.

Find Clips

Opens the Clip Locator dialog. See page 29.

Key Command – Ctrl+F.

Edit Menu

Contains a single selection, Configuration. This opens the main System Configuration dialog. See page 35.

Windows Menu

Choices in this menu change the way the windows are displayed. Use the CTRL+TAB key combination to change the active window in rotation, or use the mouse to activate a specific window.

TSS MINI Operations Manual Page 29

Cascade

Arranges all open windows so that they are overlapping, but offset. It is useful as a starting point to rearrange the windows. This choice is especially useful with small monitors.

Tile

Arranges all open windows so that each is fully visible. This choice is especially useful with larger monitors. In case Windows do not tile as expected, select Cascade to restore their original size and order, then select Tile.

In addition, there are selections for each open transport window. Selecting one of these brings that transport to the top of the display and makes it the active window.

Help Menu

Contains a single item, About, which displays the server software versions, serial number and Unit ID.

The Status Bar

A status bar appears at the bottom of the window that provides system information including Server Status, GENLOCK, VIDEO INPUT, and TIME REMAINING—PERCENT FULL. Messages such as CONNECTED TO HOST or CONNECTION TO HOST REFUSED are also displayed as diagnostics. Error and status messages from the RAID system can also be displayed here.

Channel 1 can Record or Play video content. Channel 2 may Record or Play (2200) or may be play only (2100), depending upon model. All channels may be used at the same time.

Each channel can be controlled in two different views.

 The Transport View  The Playlist View

The Transport Channel View

The Transport Channel View is shown in Figure 4. This is the default view of each channel. Basic transport operations such as play, stop, record, and head/tail trimming appear in the Clip Transport window for each channel. These operate in familiar VTR fashion.

Page 30 TSS MINI Operations Manual

Figure 4 - Transport Channel View

Transport Menu Bar

There are two menus, File and Options.

File Menu

New

Record capable channels only (Channel 1 and in some models Channel 2). Opens the Clip List to allow naming of a new clip, then prepares channel 1 or 2 for recording. See page Error! Bookmark not defined..

Key Command – Ctrl+N.

Open

Opens the Clip List to allow choosing a clip to load into the transport. Key Command – Ctrl+O.

Save

Saves an edited clip using its existing file name. Key Command – Ctrl+S.

Save As

Opens the Clip List to allow saving an edited version of the clip with a new name. This allows making alternate versions of a clip or making multiple segments of a master clip.

TSS MINI Operations Manual Page 31

Key Command – Ctrl+A.

Playlist

Switches from Transport View to Playlist View.

Closes the Transport window. This has the same effect as the Close box in the upper right corner of the window. Note that this will not stop playback or eject a loaded clip.

Options Menu

This menu contains two selections.

Take Control

Takes control of the video channel from another user (the Serial Control, a Remote Workstation, or if you are using a Remote Workstation possibly the local GUI.) This item is grayed out when the window has control.

Key Command – Ctrl+T.

Configure

Go To

Opens the video channel’s Configuration dialog. See page Error! Bookmark not defined..

Key Command – Ctrl+C.

Opens the video channel’s Frame Locator. See page 46. Key Command – Ctrl+G.

Page 32 TSS MINI Operations Manual

Cue the selected

clip to play next.

Begin playing the next

(cued) clip immediately.

Cue the selected clip and

Display and Track the

Displays the time

next HOLD event.

Enable playlist editing.

Displays the time

Displays the current

Lists the clips

Eject the Playlist.

Stop the Playlist.

Play or Pause the

Repeat the Playlist indefinitely.

Set the

Check to arm

Start Time.

Insert a HOLD event

The Playlist Channel View

The Playlist Channel View is shown in Figure 5. This view allows multiple clips to be loaded in a Playlist for sequential playout.

time of day.

scheduled start time for

remaining of the

remaining before the

remaining for all

Scheduled

and events of

Playlist.

Figure 5 - Playlist Channel View

Playlist Menu Bar

There are two menus, File and Options.

clip that is currently

before the selected

File Menu

Open

TSS MINI Operations Manual Page 33

Opens the Playlist Selector to allow choosing a Playlist to load into the Playlist Window. Key Command – Ctrl+D.

Append

Opens the Playlist Selection dialog to allow choosing a Playlist to Append to the currently loaded list. This can be done while playing to allow continuous playback of new Playlists. See page Error! Bookmark not defined..

Save

Saves an edited Playlist using its existing file name. Key Command – Ctrl+S.

Save As

Opens the Clip List to allow saving an edited version of the clip with a new name. This allows making alternate versions of a clip or making multiple segments of a master clip.

Key Command – Ctrl+A.

Rename

Opens the Playlist Selection dialog to allow renaming the currently loaded Playlist.

Transport

Switches from Playlist View to Transport View. Only available when idle.

Eject

Ejects the currently loaded Playlist in preparation for creating a new one. (It is not necessary to Eject a list to load another saved list. If the current list has been edited you will be asked to save the changes.)

Key Command – Ctrl+N.

Closes the Playlist window. This has the same effect as the Close box in the upper right corner of the window. Note that this will not stop playback or eject a loaded list.

Options Menu

This menu contains two selections:

Take Control

Key Command – Ctrl+T.

Configure

Opens the Playlist’s Configuration dialog. See page Error! Bookmark not defined.. Note that this is different than the dialog for the video channel setup, which must be accessed from the Transport View window.

Key Command – Ctrl+C.

Page 34 TSS MINI Operations Manual

Initial System Configuration

Selecting a Sync Reference

In many applications, this server and downstream equipment connected to it must be referenced to a common genlock source (SMPTE 170M or ITU-R-BT.470). A connector is provided on the rear panel to receive a genlock signal (black and burst at the field rate of 25 or 29.97 fields/second) or a tri-level sync signal. It has a 75-ohm termination.

The genlock input automatically detects what type of input is connected. The frequency of the reference must match the setting of the Frame Rate (see the next page).

An internal crystal reference is also provided so that the server can be used as a stand-alone player when there is no need to synchronize with other equipment. Systems that incorporate retiming circuitry in the router or video switcher inputs also may not require referencing.

Note that the input sync for recording is derived from the input itself. This allows the outputs to be timed while the input records an unreferenced signal.

Setting the Video Sync Source

To use with a referenced system, select External Sync using the GUI as follows:

 Connect a source of genlock (black burst) or tri-level sync to the Genlock (or Reference)

input. Note that this may need to be connected while the unit powers up.

 From the main menu bar select EDIT >CONFIGURE. Select the TIMING option. The

screen of Figure 6 appears.

 Select EXTERNAL as the sync source.

 Check that the front panel GENLOCK LED is now illuminated and the word GENLOCKED

now appears in the bottom right of the main GUI window.

Genlock Signal Quality

A genlock signal for the server must conform to one of the standards listed in the Technical Specifications. An unstable genlock source may result in unwanted artifacts in the video output.

To use in a non-genlocked system, follow the instructions above but select INTERNAL Sync.

TSS MINI Operations Manual Page 35

29.97/(59.94) Frames(Fields)/Sec

25/(50)

1080i @ 59.94 Hz

1080i @ 50 Hz

720p @ 59.94 Hz

720p @ 50 Hz

Standard

NTSC

PAL

Input to the server is independent and self-clocking. It uses the input signal itself as a reference. This allows recording any signal that conforms to the currently selected format. No configuration is required to use this feature.

Selecting the Video Frame Rate Family

360 Systems TSS MINI servers can record and play video in four high definition video formats and two standard definition formats: These formats are divided into two “families” depending on the Frame (or Field) Rate that they are based on:

Frames(Fields)/Sec

High Definition

Definition

The rate is expressed in fps. 1080i and Standard Definition formats are interlaced and their fields are displayed at the stated frequency; the frame rate is half that. The 720p (progressive) format is more correctly referred to as a frames per second value.

To select a Video Frame Rate Family:

 Go to Edit>Configure>Timing dialog on the GUI.

 Select the button for the Frame Rate Family at which you will record or play.

A reminder will appear to stop video on all channels and restart to complete the transition to the new frame rate.

Page 36 TSS MINI Operations Manual

Figure 6 – Selecting a Frame Rate Family and Channel Output Format

The system as a whole operates at one Frame Rate Family at a time; it does not play clips of mixed Frame Rate Families. Only the files recorded in the currently selected Frame Rate Family will be visible in the Clip List. Files in the other format will become visible when the server is set to that frame rate. Note that this also applies to any files you will be transferring into the system; they must conform to the selected Frame Rate Family. The FTP directory display will show all files on the system, so in the even that a clip of the wrong frame rate is transferred it, it can be deleted by FTP without changing the system frame rate setting.

Audio is recorded and played at the industry standard of 48 KHz sample rate (referenced to the video frame rate), regardless of the video Frame Rate selected.

Selecting the Channel Output Format

Each of the system’s Video Channels are independently configurable to output 720p, 1080i, or SD resolutions.

To select a Channel Output Format:

 Go to Edit>Configure>Timing dialog on the GUI.  Select the button for the desired output format of each channel.

A reminder will appear to restart the system after a Channel Output Format has been changed to complete the transition to the new format.

TSS MINI Operations Manual Page 37

Making a Recording from the GUI

Video recordings are made using the Transport View of Channel 1 (2100) or Channel 1 & 2 (2200). These channels can record or play clips, but not both at the same time. On the 2100,

Channel 2 is playback only. The following steps are used to make a recording. Most configuration settings can be skipped once a workflow is established. Channel 1 is used below as an example; all instructions apply equally to channel 2 (Model dependent).

Record Configuration Options

If necessary, set Channel 1 and/or Channel 2 to the Transport View. Click FILE >TRANSPORT in the Playlist View to switch to the Transport View.

Setting the Record Profile

Select OPTIONS >CONFIGURE from the Channel 1 Transport Window. The Dialog box in Figure 7 appears. Click the arrow to open the dropdown menu to select a Record Profile.

 AVC100 in .mxf (HD only)

o AVC Intra 100 in mxf o Codec Type: H.264 o Bit Rate: 100 Mb/s o Caption and VANC support via proprietary sidecar file. o Audio Channels: 16 o Audio Codec: PCM

 H.264 in .mp4

o HD or SD (480 line) o MPEG 4 in .mp4 o Codec Type: H.264 o Bit Rates: HD 5-40 Mb/s SD 5-15 Mb/s o Does not support Closed Captions o Audio Channels: 2 o Audio Codec: AAC

 MPEG2 PS 480 line in .mpg (SD only)

o MPEG Program Stream in .mpg o Codec Type: MPEG2 Variable Bit Rate o Bit Rate: Maximum selectable 5-50 Mb/s o Does not support Closed Captions o Audio Channels: 2 o Audio Codec: mp3 Layer 2 o Audio Codec: AAC

 MPEG2 PS 512 line in .mpg (SD only)

o MPEG Program Stream in .mpg o Codec Type: MPEG2 Variable Bit Rate

Page 38 TSS MINI Operations Manual

o Bit Rate: Maximum selectable 5-50 Mb/s o Supports Closed Captions o Audio Channels: 2 o Audio Codec: mp3 Layer 2

 IMX (D-10) in .mxf (SD only)

o IMX (D-10) in .mxf o Codec Type: MPEG2 Constant Bit Rate o Bit Rate: 30, 40, or 50 Mb/s o Supports Closed Captions o Audio Channels: 4 o Audio Codec PCM

Input Resolution Selection

Select OPTIONS >CONFIGURE from the Channel 1 (or 2 on 2200) Transport Window. The Dialog box in Error! Reference source not found. appears.

 Click the arrow to open the dropdown menu.

 Select the Resolution of the input feed. The available resolutions will vary, depending on

the Record Profile Selected.

 Click APPLY or OK.

Note: A warning will appear in the Transport Window if the selected Input Resolution does not match the resolution of the input Feed.

Setting the Video Bit Rate

Select OPTIONS >CONFIGURE from the Channel 1 (or 2 on 2200) Transport Window. The Dialog box in Error! Reference source not found. appears.

 In the window, enter the desired Video Bit Rate (in Megabits/sec),. Alternatively, use the

up/down arrows to set a number. The range of values available depends on the Record Profile selected.

 Click APPLY or OK.

TSS MINI Operations Manual Page 39

Figure 7 - Channel Configuration Dialog

Setting an Audio Delay Time

Audio tracks can be offset from video in 1 millisecond increments up to +/- one second. The setting is per channel and non-volatile. It applies to playback only, not recording.

You must stop and start the playback to hear the result of a change. This adjustment is made in Transport mode; once set it also applies to Playlist mode on that channel.

 Select OPTIONS >CONFIGURE>OUTPUT from the Channel Transport Window. The

Dialog box in Figure 8 appears.

 Enter a time offset value in the window.

 Click APPLY or OK.

Figure 8 - Audio Delay Time Offset

Page 40 TSS MINI Operations Manual

Audio Output Sync Reference

The audio sample rate is derived from the selected video sync reference. Audio is recorded at a 48K sample rate. The 0.1% pull-down for 59.94 Hz video is taken into account when generating the sample rate.

Selecting a Time Code Source

When in High-Definition modes the server utilizes the time code standard specified in SMPTE 12M-1, and applies it as described in SMPTE 12M-2. It is suggested that the user refer to these documents, as HD time code differs significantly from standard definition methods.

 This function selects the source for time code for new recordings. The time code value

obtained from the selected source will be applied from the beginning of a recording.

 Select OPTIONS >CONFIGURE from the Channel 1 Transport Window. The Dialog box

in Error! Reference source not found. appears.

 The default Time Code Source is MANUAL. Alternatively, ATC (Ancillary Time Code ) or

TOD (Time Of Day as set by the system clock) may be selected.

 For MANUAL, enter a time value in the window for the first frame of the recording. Use

the HH:MM:SS:FF format. It is not necessary to enter the colon ( : ) between digit pairs.

 Click APPLY or OK.

Beginning Recording

When the setup steps outlined above are complete, you are ready to record. Place Channel 1 in the Record Ready mode as follows.

There are two approaches to starting a recording: “named recording” and “crash recording”. You can name the clip first, then press Record; or just start recording, and let the system generate a clip name automatically. The clip may be renamed as desired when the recording is complete. The advantage of the first approach is that when the recording is complete, it is fully identified and ready for use; the second approach is valuable for live action such as sports, where there is no time to lose and action must be captured at once.

Clip names for crash recordings are of the form “new MMDD_N”, where MMDD represents the month and day of the recording, and N is the lowest non-zero number that does not cause the name to conflict with any previously made recording.

Making a Crash Recording

Press Record whenever Channel 1 reports that it is IDLE.

TSS MINI Operations Manual Page 41

Making a Named Recording

 From the Channel 1 Transport Window, Select FILE>NEW. The dialog of Figure 9 below

appears.

Figure 9 - Channel 1 Create New Recording dialog

 Enter a clip name using the keyboard. Up to 115 characters may be used. Spaces are

allowed; however, some characters other than upper or lower case letters and numbers may not be used. These characters will not enter into the name field when typed. They include * ( ) + = ; : ‘ “ < > , . / and ? A list of existing clips will appear in the large window, and can be used as a name reference when creating new clip names.

 The Channel 1 transport Window will display the words IDLE CUEING for two seconds or

less. When ready to record, the Channel 1 Transport Window will display IDLE READY.

Note: File naming is case sensitive. Upper case letters sort before lower case. The name FILE sorts in the order shown, based on differing capitalization: FILE, File, fiLe, and file. When using the server with automation systems or other remote controls, it is not a good practice to distinguish files only by differences in case.

Page 42 TSS MINI Operations Manual

Figure 10 - Channel 1 Ready to Record

 Click the RECORD button at any time to begin recording. The yellow time display counter

will update the clip duration continually.

 To stop recording, click STOP.

Monitoring a Recording Source with Input Feed (E-E) Mode

The E-E button appears in the Channel 1 and Channel 2 (model dependent) Record/Play window. It allows the input signal to be monitored from the server output. E-E Mode toggles automatically as described below, but can also be switched manually at any time.

When a new clip is created for recording, the input source is automatically switched ON to the output—an E-E connection. When a clip is opened for play on Channel 1 or 2, E-E monitoring is switched OFF. (The term E-E comes from “Electrical to Electrical”.)

When Channel 1 or 2 is switched to playlist mode, the E-E monitor is switched OFF. E-E mode cannot be toggled while the channel is in playlist mode.

When E-E is ON, the input video signal is routed to the outputs. Manually toggle the E-E mode button OFF to switch the output to the servers output, for conventional playback operation.

Under automation control, Auto E-E behavior is slightly different than under GUI control. The server will remain in E-E ON mode until a transport control command (Play, Stop, Jog, etc) is received. After receiving such a command, the server will remain in E-E OFF mode until record mode is entered. In record mode, E-E mode is ON. As with GUI operation, automation controllers may send E-E ON and E-E OFF commands to override the automatic operation.

Note that when in E-E mode the video outputs are timed to the genlock signal. This allows use of the input as an on air source when connected to other referenced equipment, even

TSS MINI Operations Manual Page 43

when the input itself is not referenced. For example, you can simultaneously broadcast a live signal while recording the event for later rebroadcast.

All VANC lines are passed through E-E regardless of which lines are selected for recording. Similarly, all embedded audio is passed through even though (depending on the selected recording format) only the lowest-numbered channels are recorded.

Page 44 TSS MINI Operations Manual

Playing a Clip from the GUI

Video Playback can be done on all channels, individually or simultaneously. The recordcapable channels (Model dependent) can record or play, but not both at once. Follow these steps to play a clip:

Beginning Playback

1. Select FILE >OPEN from the Transport Window of Channel 1 or 2. The Select Clip

windowError! Reference source not found. appears.

2. Navigate the folder structure if necessary by clicking on the folders.

3. Select the clip to be played by double-clicking it.

4. When the Transport Window indicates Idle Ready, the clip can be played by clicking

PLAY.

Figure 11 – Channel-1 Select Clip Window in “Open” Mode

Drag and Drop clip selection

1. Select FILE >CLIP LIST from the Main Window. The Clip List window in figure 11

appears.

2. Navigate the folder structure if necessary by clicking on the folders.

3. Select the clip to be played by clicking and holding the left mouse button. Wait briefly

then while continuing to hold the button “drag” the clip to the transport window and let go.

TSS MINI Operations Manual Page 45

4. When the Transport Window indicates Idle Ready, the clip can be played by clicking

PLAY.

Looping a Clip

Clicking on the LOOP checkbox in the Transport View will cause a clip to loop until LOOP is unchecked, or until STOP is clicked. LOOP may be checked or unchecked before or during playback, but must be changed at least 2 seconds before the end of clip to take immediate effect.

Pausing a Clip

Click PAUSE at any time to pause a clip. Click again to resume. The PAUSE button is the same key as the PLAY button.

Ejecting a Clip

Ejecting a clip effectively removes it from the transport. The channel will output Black. Press EJECT to eject a clip.

Using Jog

The JOG + command will move to the next frame and go to Still. The JOG – command will move to the previous frame and go to Still.

Using Go To Location

Click the arrows |< or >| to go to the next trim point (Mark In or Mark Out) in the selected direction. When in Edit mode, an additional click in the selected direction will go to the actual beginning or end of the entire clip.

To use the Go To Location slider, either select Go To from the Options Menu of the Transport you are using, or type

Ctrl+G with the desired Transport selected (click anywhere

in the Transport window to select it - its title bar will turn blue.)

Using the mouse, drag the slider to move rapidly through the video file. Or, type a specific frame location into the Destination field. You can type just as much of the location as necessary, by typing frames, seconds and frames, minutes and seconds and frames, or hours and minutes and seconds and frames. (You can type the colons but they are not required.) Press Enter when done. The video will jump to the specified frame (if it exists) and the Destination Field will become selected again to allow another location to be entered.

Page 46 TSS MINI Operations Manual

Using Fast Forward / Rewind

>> (Fast Forward) and << (Rewind) buttons transport program material at high speed in the chosen direction. Four speed choices are available in each direction. Click the button repeatedly for: 4x, 16x, 64x, and 128x. Audio does not play at any speed beyond +2X/-2X.

Slow Motion Playback

The TSS MINI system will play smooth slow-motion video in forward or reverse, at any speed from zero to 2X forward or 2x reverse. Direction can be instantly changed, using either the GUI or a desk-top controller. Audio is also played at these lower speeds. At speeds beyond +2X/-2X, video frames will selected as needed, yielding a chunky result; audio is muted at high speeds. Most slo-mo playback for sports and other uses lies well within the +2x/-2x zone.

To play in slow motion from the GUI, press PLAY and then move the shuttle slider to the desired speed. When you let go of the slider it goes back to pause. You can also have the speed control “stick” at a particular speed – see below. See the following section for details on the Shuttle control. For faster playback from the GUI, use the FAST FORWARD or REWIND buttons as described in the preceding section.

In sports, slow-motion control is usually accomplished with a desk-top slow-mo controller, such as those made by DNF Controls and others. These provide a hands-on experience far preferable to using the GUI.

Using Shuttle to Control Playback Speed

The Shuttle Control is a slider bar that controls playback speed. Playback speed control employs varispeed algorithms that may skip frames. It is not a perfect fast motion mechanism.

The center position represents zero speed, or Still.

The right and left extents of the slider represent +2X/-1X maximums.

The Shuttle control slider works in three basic ways: Snap-Back to still, Hold Speed, and Mouse Wheel.

 In Snap-Back operation, click and drag the slide control to change speed. Releasing the

slider bar will let it snap back to zero speed, or still.

 For Hold Speed operation, position the cursor over the slider control scale (not the slider

arrow) and click the left mouse button to increment the speed control. The transport will run

TSS MINI Operations Manual Page 47

in the selected direction at the selected speed without holding the mouse button down. The cursor may now be moved over the Stop button to wait for the desired point.

 When using a wheel mouse, position the cursor over the slider scale and rotate the wheel to

increment speed. Rolling the wheel in opposite directions changes the direction the arrow slider moves. To stop video, click the Stop button or the arrow slider.

Page 48 TSS MINI Operations Manual

Editing a Clip

Edit controls are activated with the Edit check box. Several buttons are available to define the beginning and end of a region within a clip; associated time code displays are also present.

These non-destructive Mark In and Mark Out trim points can be set to define a portion of a clip to be played. These “edit pointers” do not create a new clip from the original material; they act like virtual trims, and material outside of the trim points is excluded, but can be retrieved by resetting the Mark pointers. After setting the Mark In and Mark Out points, clips will play between these points. These edit values are saved with the clip.

Edits may be saved to the current clip by de-selecting the Edit check box, or choosing Save from the clip window File menu. Save As works to save the edit points to a new clip name, even if the edits have not been saved in the current clip.

Marking the IN point

Sets the current time code value into the Mark In point time display. The Mark In button can capture a time code value from the clip when it is still, or on-the-fly.

Mark In Display

Displays the time code of the Mark In point. When no Mark In point has been set manually, this displays the Start of Message (SOM) time code (usually 00:00:00:00).

The values in this display window may be set by two methods:

 Enter Mark In point from the keyboard: Use the mouse or Tab key to move between In

and Out fields. When a field is highlighted, enter a numeric value from the keyboard.

 Whether a clip is still or playing, press Mark In to capture a time code value from the

clip’s current position.

Marking the Out Point

Sets the current time code value into the Mark Out point time display. The Mark Out button can capture a time code value from the clip when it is still, or on-the-fly.

Mark Out Display

Displays the Mark Out point time code. When no Mark Out point has been set manually, this displays the EOM time code (originally the end time of the recording).

The values in this display window may be set by two methods:

TSS MINI Operations Manual Page 49

 Enter Mark Out point from the keyboard: Use the mouse or Tab key to move between In

and Out fields. When a field is highlighted, enter a numeric value from the keyboard.

 Whether a clip is still or playing, press Mark Out to capture a time code value from the

clip’s current position.

Duration Display

Displays the total running time (TRT) of the current clip. TRT is defined as the difference in the time codes between the first and last frames, plus one. For example, if the first frame of the clip is 00:00:00:00 and last frame displayed at the end is 00:00:01:15, the reported duration will be 00:00:01:16.

With 59.94 Hz drop-frame time code, the true play duration may not be the exact numerical value of ((Mark Out – Mark In) + 1) due to the discontinuities in the drop-frame time line. The true run time is shown in the Clip List.

Auditioning the Mark In Point (Review Edit Button)

The Review Edit button

<~>

cues the clip to the Mark In point (or SOM, if no Mark In point exists) and begins playback. Review Edit will stop at the Mark Out point. The Mark Out point will be displayed in Still mode.

The Review Clip button may be used to check the Mark In point without playing all the way through the clip. After Review Clip is pressed and play begins, all of the standard transport buttons are available for use.

Auditioning the Mark Out Point (Review Tail Button)

The Review Tail button

may be used to audition the Mark Out point without

playing all the way through the clip. It will cue the clip to three seconds before the Mark Out point (or EOM, if no Mark Out Point exists) and then begin playback. Review Out will stop at the Mark Out Point.

Single-Frame Clips

It is possible to Click Mark In and Mark Out on the same frame to create a still frame for use in a playlist. These can function as either a hold point in the list that will display the frame until another action is taken, or they can be assigned a duration. See page Error! Bookmark not defined. for information on setting the duration of a still frame in a playlist.

Page 50 TSS MINI Operations Manual

System Configuration

The following configuration options apply to the server as a whole, except where it applies specifically to an individual channel.

Assigning Names to the Server and Transport Channels

The server can be assigned a name that will be displayed along the top of the Main GUI Window. Each individual server channel can also be given a name.

To assign a name to the server or transport channels, click EDIT>CONFIGURE>NAMES from the main menu pulldown.

The screen of Error! Reference source not found. is displayed. Use the keyboard to type in a name for any of the selections. Names can be up to 31 characters in length. Spaces, digits and other non-alphanumeric characters may be used. Click APPLY to accept the name. The names will appear in their appropriate windows immediately.

Figure 12 - Configure Names Screen

TSS MINI Operations Manual Page 51

Programming GPIO Outputs

The system has twelve General Purpose Outputs, referred to as GPO 1 through 12. Each can be programmed to go active on the selected channel when one of the following events occurs:

IDLE

PAUSED

STOPPED

PLAYING

RECORDING

Transport returns to idle Transport is paused Transport is stopped Transport is playing Transport is recording

PLAYLIST

RAID Fault

NO GENLOCK

NO VIDEO INPUT

Fan Fault

System Fault

Any Fault

To program a GPO output, select EDIT >CONFIGURE >GPO. The screen of Error! Reference source not found. is displayed. GPO 1 through 12 are triggerable outputs. The checkboxes to

the right of each selection represent channel 1 and channel 2.

 To activate one of the GPO, pulldown the event menu and select which event will

activate the GPO.

 Select an associated channel where applicable by checking the channel checkbox.

 Click APPLY to activate.

Control GPO via playlist (or Playback Schedule) RAID Fault No genlock No video at the selected input Fan Fault System Fault RAID, Fan or System Fault

Page 52 TSS MINI Operations Manual

Figure 13 - GPO Configuration Screen

Programming GPI Inputs

The optional CXP-5 module has 12 General Purpose Inputs, referred to as GPI 1 through GPI 12. Each can be programmed to trigger one of the following events on a channel:

CUE

JUMP

PAUSE

PLAY

RECORD

SELPREV

SELNEXT

STOP

Cue a clip (in a Playlist or Playback Schedule)

Cue selected clip for immediate playback (Playlist Mode only)

Immediately plays next cued clip in a playlist for playback (Playlist Mode only)

Pause a clip

Play a clip

Start a recording

In Playlist Mode – Navigate to clip above currently selected clip

In Playlist Mode – Navigate to clip below currently selected clip

Stop a clip

To program a GPI Input, select EDIT >CONFIGURE >GPI. The screen of Error! Reference source not found. will be displayed. GPI 1 through 12 are programmable inputs. The checkboxes to the right of each selection represent video channel 1 and channel 2.

1. To activate a GPI input, select the event from the pulldown the event menu

TSS MINI Operations Manual Page 53

2. Mark a checkbox for the channel of interest. The event will be triggered when that GPI

goes active.

3. Click APPLY to activate.

Figure 14 - GPI Configuration Screen

Configuring the Ethernet Network

The system provides a number of user settings that configure it for use in a practical network. These will be found on the Configure Network tab shown below.

The NET-1 Ethernet port on the server has a unique IP Address. In this way, each server can be identified on the network.

Network Settings Tab

Use the Main Menu selection bar at the top of the server GUI to configure network communication settings.

Click EDIT >CONFIGURE >NETWORK The screen of Figure 15Error! Reference source not found. is displayed.

Page 54 TSS MINI Operations Manual

Figure 15 - Network Configuration Screen

The server is shipped with a default network Host Name and IP Address. Qualified network engineers may change these configurations to suit your specific network environment. Factory defaults for networking are:

 Network Disabled  Use DHCP

Disable Network [X]

This selection turns the network OFF or ON. The default is Disabled (the box is checked). To Enable the network connection, click the box to un-check it. Disabling the network can be used to deny access to the server from the network for security purposes.

Enabling/Disabling DHCP [X]

Enabling DHCP will configure the network interface automatically.

If the DHCP box is not selected, the user may then manually enter assignments in the following windows:

 IP Address ( Example: 192.168.1.20 )  Net Mask ( Example: 255.255.255.0 )

 Default Router ( Example: 192.168.1.1 )

The Host Name and NTP domain name may be a fully qualified domain name, such as edit1.mydomain.com. All other manually configured addresses must be properly formatted IP addresses.

TSS MINI Operations Manual Page 55

FTP User / Password

In this space, you may set the User Name and Password to be used to access the system remotely via an FTP client.

Saving Network Configuration

Click on OK, APPLY, or CANCEL to accept or abandon new entries.

The IP address of the system is displayed in the center of the GUI at the end of the main window title.

IMPORTANT

The server is designed to be used in a private dedicated video network. An external firewall (preferably with Virtual Private Network (VPN) support) must be used in systems that require internal security or are connection to public networks.

Consult with a network security specialist for guidance on the best hardware, programming and practices for your facility’s requirements.

Page 56 TSS MINI Operations Manual

Setting the Date and Time

Click EDIT >CONFIGURE >DATE/TIME. The dialog below appears.

Figure 16 - Time/Date Configuration Screen

Set the TIME and DATE by clicking on the Time/Date field and navigating the clock and calendar.

Check Automatic Updates to enable automatic updates using the Network Time Protocol (NTP). Refer to Network Time Protocol on page 86.

TSS MINI Operations Manual Page 57

Figure 17 - Time/Date Configuration Screen

Select the REGION and ZONE according to your geographic location or time zone. Use the scroll-bar as necessary, and then click on the desired value.

Note: A System Restart is required for a Time Zone change to take effect

Page 58 TSS MINI Operations Manual

Clip List

The TSS MINI server’s Clip List is used to find, select, delete, name, and rename clips.

Clips can be dragged and dropped anywhere on a Transport for immediate playback.

Single or multiple clips can be dragged into a Playlist. See page 67.

 Click SHOW >CLIP LIST from the main pulldown menu to display the Clip List.

Figure 18 – Clip List

Renaming and Deleting Clips

Clips can be renamed by right clicking on them with the mouse, then selecting Rename from the pop-up menu.

Clips can be deleted by right clicking on them with the mouse, then selecting Delete from the pop-up menu.

Sorting Clips

Clips can be sorted in forward or reverse order by any of the columns by clicking once or twice on the column heading. The previous sort is maintained, so if the sort is by Name, then by Date, the clips of each Date will be sorted by Name.

TSS MINI Operations Manual Page 59

Filtering the Clip Display

You can limit the number of clips displayed by typing a string in the SEARCH FILTER field. For example, typing “AT” in the filter field limits the display to all clips that contain “AT” somewhere in the clip name. It is not case sensitive, AT will show At, aT and at as well. Pressing the Clear button restores the complete display.

Finding Clips

Clips can be easily found using the Clip Locator. To locate a clip:

1. Click SHOW>FIND CLIPS. The Clip Locator screen of Error! Reference source not

found. appears.

2. Check Case Sensitive to make the search case-sensitive.

3. Check Stop After First Match to find only the first match.

4. Check Use Regular Expressions to search for the string of interest ANYWHERE in the

clip name. With Regular Expressions unchecked, the search will match only clips that BEGIN with the string entered at FIND. See the next page for more on Regular Expressions.

5. Optionally, Enter a string in the SEARCH FILTER field to limit the number of clips

displayed. For example, entering “AT” in the SEARCH FILTER field will limit the display to only clips containing “AT” in their clip name. Pressing the Clear button restores the complete display.

6. Enter a name or part of a name in the FIND field. Press Enter to initiate the search.

The clip(s) will be displayed according to the rules set by the checkbox settings.

Page 60 TSS MINI Operations Manual

Figure 19 - Clip Locator

Finding Clips Using Wildcards

The following wildcard conventions may be used in a search when Use Regular Expressions is unchecked.

* Match anything. For example, to find all clips starting with “xyz”, use the pattern

“xyz*”. To find all clips containing “2008” use “*2008*”.

? Match any single character.

TSS MINI Operations Manual Page 61

Finding Clips Using Regular Expressions

A regular expression (“RE”) specifies a pattern to be matched in a clip name. Regular expressions can contain both special and ordinary characters. Ordinary characters just match themselves. Thus, the RE “night” would match the “night” in the clip name “Tonight Show”, so this and any other clip name with “night” in it would be placed in the list of found clips.

The following special characters are supported:

. (dot) This matches any single character. “a.c” matches “abc”, “aac”, “a2c” and “a c”

but not “acd”.

^ (caret) This matches the start of a clip name. To find all clips starting with “xyz”, for

example, use the Regular Expression “^xyz”.

$ Match the end of the clip name. To find all clips ending in “xyz” use the RE “xyz$”.

< Match the beginning of a word. For example “<Show” will match all clip names

containing a word that starts with “Show”, such as “Now Showing”, but not “LateShow”.

> Match the end of a word.

* Match zero or more repetitions of the preceding character. “.*” will match anything

– “G.*N.*” will match “Georgia Evening News” or “Good Night”.

+ Match 1 or more repetitions of the preceding RE term. “0+” matches 00 or 0000, not 0.

? The preceding Regular Expression term is optional. “ab?c” will match “ac” or “abc”

but not “adc”.

[ ] Used to indicate a set of characters. Characters can be listed individually, or a range of

characters can be indicated by giving two characters and separating them by a "-". Special characters are not active inside sets. For example, [a+$] will match any of the characters "a", "+", or "$". [a-z] will match any lowercase letter. [a-zA-Z0-9] matches any letter or digit. If you want to include a "-" inside a set, precede it with a backslash (“\-“), or place it as the first character. You can match all characters that are not within the set by making "^" as the first character of the set; "^" elsewhere will simply match the "^" character. For example, [^7] will match any character except "7".

SPACE A space is treated as an ordinary character. “ Show “ (<space>Show) will match

“Tonight Show” or “Now Showing” but not "NewShow”. “ “ will match any clip with a space in the name.

Page 62 TSS MINI Operations Manual

The subject of Regular Expressions is much larger than can be completely covered here. They are used in several different operating systems and programming languages. Further information can be found on the internet and in books on Regular Expressions and Linux.

TSS MINI Operations Manual Page 63

Using Playlists

The TSS MINI Multi Format Video Server’s Advanced Playlisting software provides extensive tools for building, editing and playing complex sequences of program content. Advanced Playlisting appears as on-screen windows, with an intuitive Graphic User Interface that makes it easy to operate without extra equipment. It’s invaluable for building commercial breaks, news rundowns, still-store and clip lists. The server will create and store as many playlists as needed, each with its own unique name. For many users, Advanced Playlisting may be all that’s needed to go to air.

The following features are included:

 Drag-and-drop playlist building and editing on a graphic interface

 Edit lists while they’re running

 Start at any point in a list

 Displays run time for clips, plus segment length and total remaining time

 On-the-Fly commands for Pause, Skip, Hold, Next and Jump functions

 Append a playing list with a saved playlist

 Up to 12 programmable GPI Output events embedded in playlist clips

 Programmable time-of-day start for a playlist and for individual events

 Generates an As-Run Log

 Setting rules for deleting old playlist entries

 Simple text format allows playlists to be created, viewed and edited offline

 FTP access allows playlists to be transferred between servers, or to/from a PC

For information about the playlist and asrun file formats, external list editing and use with traffic systems, see Appendix D on page 132 and Appendix E on page 135.

Page 64 TSS MINI Operations Manual

The Playlist View

Cue a clip to

Cue the next clip and

Cue the selected clip

Insert a HOLD event

Display and Track the

clip

Displays the time

Enable playlist editing.

Displays the time

Displays the current

Lists the clips

Stop the Playlist.

Play or Pause the

Repeat the Playlist indefinitely.

Displays a

Check to arm

The playlist view for channel 1 is shown in Error! Reference source not found.. Its functions are briefly described here. Table 1 provides an overview of Playlist control functions and their associated hot-keys.

time of day.

scheduled start time for a playlist.

remaining of the current clip or event.

remaining before the next HOLD event.

remaining for all events to finish.

Scheduled Start Time.

and events of the Playlist.

Playlist.

begin playing

play next.

Figure 20 - Channel 1 Playlist View

and begin playing

that is currently playing.

Eject the Playlist.

before the selected event.

TSS MINI Operations Manual Page 65

FUNCTION

DESCRIPTION / REFERENCE

INVOKE

HOT

KEY

PLAY/ PAUSE

Play / Pause a clip ( Page

Error!

Button

STOP/ SHOW

Stop / Show First Frame ( Page

69)

Button

CUE

Cue a clip ( Page

Error! Bookmark not

Button

Prepare next clip for playback ( Page

70)

Button

JUMP

Jump to the selected clip ( P

age

70)

Button

LOOP

Check to loop a Playlist ( Page

70)

LOOP

EDIT

Check to enable editing ( Page

73)

EDIT

ARM START

TIME

HOME

PLAY

Bookmark not defined.)

STOP

CUE

defined. )

NEXT JUMP

Checkbox

Enable Scheduled Start Time ( Page 70)

Scroll to currently playing Clip ( Page 71) HOME Button

Table 1 - Playlist Control Functions

ARM

START TIME

Checkbox

P or

SPACE

S C

N J L

Page 66 TSS MINI Operations Manual

Creating and Running a Playlist

To Create a Playlist (Using Channel 1 in the example):

1. Change the transport for Channel 1 to the Playlist View. Click FILE

>PLAYLIST in the Channel 1 transport pulldown menu. The window of Error!

Reference source not found. appears.

2. Click the EDIT check box to put the channel into edit mode.

3. Click SHOW >CLIP LIST from the main menu to open the Clip List. Both

windows are now visible.

4. Insert clips in the list using one of these methods:

Double click on a clip in the Clip List to add it to the Playlist. The clip will appear in the playlist. The first clip will indicate a status of CUED. Note that this mode of insertion can only work when one channel is in Edit mode.

Alternately, click on any clip and hold the mouse button as you move the cursor to the playlist. Let go of the button when the cursor is over the position that you want the clip to appear in the playlist (drag and drop).

You can drag and drop a single clip from one playlist to another by holding the Control key while you select and drag the clip. (Both lists must be in Edit mode.

You can duplicate a playlist entry within the same playlist by dragging it while holding the Control key.

5. Repeat the procedures to add more clips.

TSS MINI Operations Manual Page 67

Figure 21 - Channel 1 Playlist with Clip List

6. Click PLAY to run the playlist. The clips will be played in the order they were

entered in the playlist. The currently playing clip will indicate a status of PLAYING. The next clip on the list will indicate a status of CUED.

7. To SAVE the Playlist select FILE >SAVE-AS. Enter a file name. Click SAVE.

8. To SAVE an existing playlist without changing the name, use FILE >SAVE.

Page 68 TSS MINI Operations Manual

Figure 22 – Active Playlist

Loading a Playlist (FILE>OPEN)

Click FILE >OPEN from the Playlist View to bring up the list of available Playlists. Doubleclick on a playlist to load it.

Saving a New Playlist (FILE>SAVE AS)

Once a Playlist has been created, it can be saved by selecting FILE >SAVE AS from the Playlist View pulldown menu. Type in an appropriate name and click SAVE.

Saving an Existing Playlist (FILE>SAVE)

An existing Playlist can be saved by selecting FILE >SAVE from the Playlist View pulldown menu. Type in an appropriate name and click SAVE.

Stopping a Playlist (STOP)

Click STOP to halt a Playlist.

Pausing Playlist (PLAY/PAUSE)

When a Playlist is running, the PLAY key will change to indicate PAUSE. Pressing PAUSE stops the Playlist immediately, on the current frame of a clip. Pressing it again will resume playback.

TSS MINI Operations Manual Page 69

Cueing a Clip (CUE)

When the Playlist is running, click CUE to immediately prepare a selected clip for playback. When the current clip is finished playing, the Playlist will play the Cued clip, followed by all subsequent clips. This allows the user to skip over clips that appear in the list between the currently playing clip and the selected clip.

The user may also re-cue a clip that has already been played. In this case, the Playlist will restart from the selected clip, and all subsequent events will be played (or re-played) in sequence. When the Playlist is stopped, CUE will prepare the selected clip to play when Play is pressed, or the list is started automatically by Arm Start Time.

Looping Playlist (LOOP [X] )

To loop the entire playlist after the last clip completes, check the LOOP checkbox at any time. Upon un-checking, the list will play to completion and then stop.

Showing First Frame of CUED Clip (SHOW)

When a clip is cued, the STOP button legend changes to SHOW. Pressing it will display the first frame of the cued clip.

Preparing Next Clip for Playback (NEXT)

When a Playlist is stopped, click NEXT to prepare the next clip in the Playlist for playback. While the Playlist is running, NEXT will immediately begin playing the next cued clip in the Playlist. (The next clip may require several seconds to load and cue for a seamless transition.) If the next event in the Playlist is a HOLD, the NEXT command will move to the Hold event, and video will Go to Black between Clips, Show First Frame of Next Clip or Hold on Last

Frame of Clip, depending on Hold Behavior selected.

Jumping to Selected Clip (JUMP)

Click JUMP to cue any selected clip for immediate playback; this permits jumping over intervening clips. JUMP also allows clips that have already been played to be immediately re-cued and played. In this case, the Playlist will restart from the selected clip, and subsequent events will be re-played in sequence.

Setting Playlist Start Time

Set a start time for a Playlist by entering a twenty four hour time of day in Hours, Minutes and Seconds in the START TIME field (see Error! Reference source not found. Figure 20

on page 65). Click on any field to edit the field. Check the ARM START TIME checkbox to arm the start time. The ARM START TIME checkbox will automatically uncheck itself once the playlist has started.

Page 70 TSS MINI Operations Manual

Triggering the Start Time is essentially the same as pressing the Play button, so it is possible to arm the start time while a list is playing, have the playback stop from a Hold or GPI Stop, and then restart when the Start Time triggers playback.

Automatic Scrolling to Currently Playing Clip (HOME)

Click HOME to make the currently playing clip visible in the Playlist View window. If no clip is playing, then the currently-cued clip is displayed. This is helpful if you have manually scrolled elsewhere in a large Playlist. Once this is done, the display will also maintain the currentlyplaying clip within the window, if EDIT is off

Set HOLD Behavior

This determines what happens during a HOLD:

Click OPTIONS>CONFIGURE from the Playlist View of the channel pulldown. Use the drop down menu to select between Go to Black between Clips, Show First Frame of Next Clip or Hold on Last Frame of Clip.

A hold can exist not only when there is a HOLD event in the list, but also because the next clip to play has a scheduled start time.

Note when using Hold on Last Frame or Show First Frame of Next Clip, you can still go to black at any particular point in the playlist by inserting a still or single frame clip of black.

Figure 23 - Configure Channel 1 Playlist Window

Set Maximum Number of Items to Keep

To set the number of played items to be retained in a playlist:

TSS MINI Operations Manual Page 71

Click OPTIONS>CONFIGURE from the Playlist View of the channel pulldown. Use the thumbwheel UP and DOWN scroll button to increase or decrease the number of clips to retain. The default value of zero will retain ALL Items. Note that this only applies to the playlist itself, the actual clips referenced are not deleted.

Enabling As-Run Logging

To enable As-Run logs, while in the Playlist View select OPTIONS >CONFIGURE from the menus within the Playlist window. Check the Enable As-Run Logging checkbox to enable As-Run logging. Uncheck the box to disable As-Run logging. When enabled, a check mark will appear next to the As-Run log label, and files played by a playlist will be written to an As-Run log. As-Run logs are available only through FTP downloads; they cannot be viewed or printed from the server. After logging into a server, select the ASRUN folder. All logs are stored in this location, and have the extension “.arl”. Refer to Appendix E – As-Run Logging for more details about As-Run logging functionality.

Viewing, Editing and Archiving Playlists

Playlists can be accessed via the server’s FTP feature, allowing several capabilities:

 Lists can be backed up on a PC, and sent to another server.

 Lists can be viewed and printed from the PC

 Lists can be edited or created on the PC and uploaded to the server.

Playlists are found in the server’s FTP directory in the lists folder. They are simple text files with the extension .lst. Refer to Appendix D, Playlist Management for more information.

Page 72 TSS MINI Operations Manual

Editing Playlists

Removing a Clip from a Playlist

To Remove a clip or other event from a Playlist:

 Make sure the clip to be removed is not PLAYING or CUED.

 Position the cursor over the Clip and right-click. Select REMOVE from the pop-up

menu.

Removing Clips Above or Below the Selected Clip

All clips above or below the selected clip can be removed unless a CUED or PLAYING clip is affected. These options will “grey out” if removal is not allowed for this reason.

To Remove All clips above a selected clip:

 Move the cursor over the clip to select it.  Right click the mouse and select Remove All Above from the pulldown menu.

To Remove All clips below a selected clip:

 Move the cursor over the clip to select it.  Right click the mouse and select Remove All Below from the pulldown menu.

Inserting a HOLD Into a Playlist

The HOLD command inserts a hold (wait) event in a Playlist immediately before the selected clip. The PLAY or JUMP command will restart a Playlist after it has stopped on a HOLD line. The HOLD command is also available in the Playlist Item Context Menu, accessed by rightclicking in the Playlist item window. If a programmed Start Time has been set and is armed, the Playlist will resume when the Programmed Start Time occurs. See Page 70 for instructions on setting a programmed start time.

Appending a Playlist (FILE >APPEND)

Make sure the EDIT checkbox is checked in the Playlist View window. Click FILE >APPEND from the Playlist View to bring up the list of available Playlists. Double-click on a playlist to load it. It will appear at the end of the list after a label event that shows the name of the appended list. This operation can be performed during playback, allowing a new playlist to be loaded without interruption of programming.

Changing Duration of Clips in Playlist

Make sure the EDIT checkbox is checked in the Playlist View window. Position the cursor over a clip and right-click. Select EDIT DURATION from the pulldown menu. Enter a

TSS MINI Operations Manual Page 73

duration in the Duration window. The minimum duration is 4 seconds. The entry may be in one of these formats:

 Hours, Minutes, Seconds and Frames entered as HHMMSSFF

04300102 = 4 Hours, 30 minutes, 1 second, 2 frames

 Hours, Minutes, Seconds and Frames entered as HH:MM:SS:FF

03:39:41:17 = 3 Hours, 39 minutes, 41 seconds, 17 frames

 As a whole number along with the special characters H for hours, S for seconds, M for minutes.

7H would set 7 hour duration. 31m would set 31 minutes. 15s would set 15 seconds.

NOTE: The Clip duration is affected only within the Playlist, for this event. The duration of the source clip is not changed. Other events containing the same clip are not changed.

Mapping GPO to Playlist Events

The optional CXP-5 Auxiliary Interface Module has twelve General Purpose Interface Outputs, referred to as GPO 1 through 12. Any of these can be programmed to go active at a pre-determined time, or offset, after the beginning of a Playlist clip. An active duration can also be set, after which the output again goes inactive. In all cases, every output will go inactive when a clip ends. By default, a new clip contains no programmed GPO output commands. Refer to Appendix A – Connector Specifications for details on electrically interfacing to the GPIO connector.

To Map a Playlist event to a GPO output, Follow these steps.

A. Select EDIT>CONFIGURE >GPO. The screen of Error! Reference source not

found. is displayed. GPO 1 through 12 correspond to the 12 GPIO outputs. The checkboxes to the right of each selection represent channel 1, 2, 3 (and 4 in four channel models). GPO 9 is shown with the trigger option pulldown expanded.

a. Set the GPO of interest to PLAYLIST mode from the pulldown menu.

b. Set the Channel to (video channel) 1, 2, 3 and/or 4 by checking the appropriate

box to the right. Click APPLY to activate the settings.

Page 74 TSS MINI Operations Manual

Figure 24 - GPO Configuration Screen

B. Check the EDIT checkbox in the Playlist View of the transport.

C. Place the cursor over a Clip in a Playlist. Right click on the clip. Select EDIT GPO. The

Event Editor (Error! Reference source not found. ) appears:

D. Enable the GPO of interest by checking the corresponding ENABLED checkbox.

E. Enter an offset into the Clip to activate the GPO line in the Offset Field. The form of

the field is Hours, Minutes, Seconds and frames. ( HH:MM:SS:FF )

F. Enter the Duration for the GPO to remain active in the Duration Field using the

same format. Click APPLY to activate the changes.

TSS MINI Operations Manual Page 75

Figure 25 – GPO Editor

Mapping GPIO Inputs to Control a Playlist

Playlists can be controlled with the twelve GPI Inputs. See Programming GPI Inputs on page 53.

Page 76 TSS MINI Operations Manual

Advanced Topics

System Timing

The TSS MINI Multi Format Video Server is equipped for use with an external genlock signal as a timing reference. This causes all outputs to be synchronous with other video signals in a facility.

Adjustment of Genlock Timing will fine tune this synchronization to compensate for differences in equipment and wiring. This global setting for all outputs allows timing to be varied by one line of video. The Vertical (lines) setting rarely needs to be adjusted. If required, it would be adjusted so that the output of the first line of video happens concurrently with other contributing inputs. The visible effect is that the picture will rise or fall by one line when viewed at the output of a timed video switcher, or on a genlocked monitor. Note that this setting might cause SD VBI data such as closed captions (and less likely, HD VANC data2) to appear on different and possibly inappropriate lines.

VANC data carries its line number within the digital data, as such it is less susceptible to issues that arise from changes in line timing. VBI relies on its actual position in the raster to be associated with a particular line.

TSS MINI Operations Manual Page 77

Figure 26 - Video Timing Adjustment

The Horizontal (nsec) adjustment is used to set the precise timing of the start of the frame relative to the reference signal, in order to match with other contributing signals. The effect is not normally visible; extreme settings may result in a slight visible shift of the picture from left to right.

Page 78 TSS MINI Operations Manual

Using Embedded Audio

The TSS MINI Multi Format Video Server provides up to 16-channels of embedded audio. (Note that not all file formats support 16 channel audio.)

Features include:

 Video synchronous 24-bit audio at a 48K sample rate. (Other sampling rates are not

supported.)

 The server records and plays Group 1, 2, 3 and 4 audio, (channels 1-16).

 In E-E or Input Monitor mode, all embedded audio channels will pass through the server

unaltered, regardless of whether they are being recorded in the selected file format.

 User bits in the HD-SDI embedded audio stream are not supported.

 Dolby®-E is supported with 360 Systems’ Bit-for-Bit® technology. Note that this requires

using a recording format such as AVC-100 that uses PCM audio recording.

TSS MINI Operations Manual Page 79

Ganging Channels for Synchronized Playback

Two video channels can be ganged together for frame-accurate playback. This may be used for key and fill material (either stills or clips), or multi-channel playout of presentations, such as synchronized matte backdrops on News Broadcasts, or multi-screen projection.

The channels can be ganged in the following combinations:

 Channel 1 can control Channel 2.

Only channel one can be set as the master channel.

To configure Channel Ganging Click EDIT >CONFIGURE >TIMING from the Main Menu. The video timing adjustment screen of Figure 26 displayed.

 To gang Channel 2 to channel 1, set CHANNEL GANGING MASTER to 1 and click the

GANG checkbox on channel 2.

FTP File Transfers

The TSS MINI Server connects over Gigabit Ethernet using its own internal RFC-1359 compliant FTP server. File transfers to and from the server are managed from an FTP client file transfer program running on an external system on the network (such as a Windows® or Macintosh® computer). This provides a rapid way to execute file transfers, allows managing many servers at once, and does not tie up the server GUI which may already be in use. Error! Reference source not found.

FTP Client Platform

Flash FXP WINDOWS DOS FTP WINDOWS WS FTP WINDOWS XP Internet Explorer WINDOWS XP Filezilla WINDOWS MACINTOSH LINUX Fetch MACINTOSH CyberDuck MACINTOSH

Table 2 - Supported FTP Clients

FTP programs may also be used to move recorded or edited material between a server and Network Attached Storage (NAS).

From a networking or system-integration viewpoint, the server appears as a normal FTP server in any size network, with the exception that it may only receive video, graphic and scheduling related files that are compatible with the server.

Page 80 TSS MINI Operations Manual

The server is designed to be used in a private dedicated video network. A firewall with VPN capability must be used in systems that require internal security or connection to public networks. Consult with a network security specialist for guidance on the best hardware, programming and practices for your facility’s requirements.

Gigabit Ethernet Cable Quality

The high data rates generated by Gigabit Ethernet require high-quality cable designed for this application. Low-quality network cables can result in high error rates and lower transmission speed. For Gigabit operation, standard CAT-5 cable should be used only for very short cable runs.

New Category 5e (enhanced) cables ensure maximum transfer rates, and should be used as the minimum standard. Category 6 cable is a good choice for applications where longer cable runs are required.

Configuring the FTP Interface

Before logging in to the server’s FTP server, the network must be configured according to the local network topology. This is primarily a matter of setting a static IP address or configuring the server to use DHCP to obtain an IP address from a DHCP server. Refer to page Error! Bookmark not defined. for details on configuring the network settings.

When connecting directly to a PC or Laptop, configure the server as IP address 192.168.1.3, netmask 255.255.255.0 and disable DHCP. In the PC, double click on the Local Area Connection Icon in the system tray or in the Network and Dial-Up Connections in the Control Panel. In the Local Area Connection Status dialog, click on Properties. Click on the item “Internet Protocol (TCP/IP)” and click on Properties again. In Local Area Connection Properties, turn off “Obtain an IP Address Automatically“ by selecting “Use the Following IP Address” and set the address to 192.168.1.2, netmask to 255.255.255.0.

No hardware settings are available or needed. The NET-1 port automatically negotiates port speed and configures transmit and receive connections, and does not need a “crossover” cable when connecting directly to a PC.

The actual transfer rate depends on the format of the files being transferred, and the number of video streams being played or recorded.

Setting the server FTP User and FTP Password

 Click on Edit>Configure>Network from the Main GUI Window  Enter the desired FTP User name in the FTP User field  Enter the desired FTP Password in the FTP Password field  Click Apply

TSS MINI Operations Manual Page 81

Figure 27 – FTP User and Password Configuration

Logging in to the server FTP Service

Using one of the FTP clients shown in Error! Reference source not found.:

 Enter the username and password

When the FTP client is connected, it will display the Clips in the main directory and all of the sub-folders. Clips can be uploaded, downloaded, deleted and renamed using standard FTP client commands. Clips in the subfolders can be displayed by entering those folders. Consult the documentation for your FTP client for information on changing folders.

FTP Transfer Rates

Transfer rate (transfer time relative to clip length) depends greatly on the current operational demands on the server. This includes the number of channels that are being used, whether there is recording taking place, the bitrate of the video, and the number of VANC data lines in use.

Secondarily, the network itself and the source of FTP data can be limiting factors in some cases. The following rates assume a dedicated network with limited additional traffic, a high bandwidth FTP source, and a video bit rate of 75 Mb/s with 1 VANC line.

Page 82 TSS MINI Operations Manual

Transfer Time for 1 minute of video

Workload

Upload to

TSS MINI

IDLE

14 seconds (45.0 MB/s or 360 Mb/s)

28 seconds (22.5 MB/s or 180 Mb/s)

1 Channel Playing

14 seconds (45.0 MB/s or 360 Mb/s)

28 seconds (22.5 MB/s or 180 Mb/s)

2 Channels Playing

15 seconds (39.4 MB/s or 315.2 Mb/s)

45 seconds (14.0 MB/s or 112 Mb/s)

Record, 1

Play 17 seconds (37.0 MB/s or 296 Mb/s)

44 seconds (14.3 MB/s or 114.4 Mb/s)

Download from TSS MINI

Multiple Simultaneous FTP Operations

FTP client programs that allow multiple simultaneous data transfers should be set to allow only one data connection at a time.

While it is possible to log in from multiple clients, it is only acceptable to perform multiple file transfers when the system is idle or playing or recording on a single channel.

Overwriting Files

It is the responsibility of the client application (Windows Explorer, FlashFXP, etc) to ask the user if they want to overwrite a file.

Interrupted and Resumed Transfers

If a transfer is interrupted (for example, by a dropped connection) the transfer must be restarted. Resumption of a partial transfer is not possible.

Transfer of Edited Segments

Edited segments made on the TSS MINI Server are not available for transfer via FTP.

Supported File Types

The system recognizes media file types by their file extension. It is important that the file extension properly identifies the file content. Attempts to send a file in one format but masquerading as another due to a wrong file extension may result in undefined behavior.

It is also true that file extensions such as .mxf and .mov can contain many different formats of video and audio. The TSS MINI Server will only accept files that contain compatible formats as defined below.

Always test file import before depending on it for broadcast. Some formats allow wide variation in the structure of files, and the parameters used in the video compression. The system will not accept all possible variations, and it is even possible that a file that is accepted may not operate perfectly in all respects. Always test files from new sources before going on air.

The TSS MINI Server supports many different codec, container format, resolution and frame/field rate combinations. While it is not possible to list all possible combinations, the formats below supported and are known to work.

TSS MINI Operations Manual Page 83

 1920 X 1080i @ 29.97 or 25 fps

 1920 X 1080p @ 59.94 or 50 fps

 1280 X 720p @ 59.94 or 50 fps

 720 X 512 NTSC @ 29.97 fps

 720 X 486 NTSC @ 29.97 fps

 720 X 480 NTSC @ 29.97 fps

 640 X 480 NTSC @ 29.97 fps

 720 X 576 PAL @ 25 fps

 720 X 608 PAL @ 25 fps

Page 84 TSS MINI Operations Manual

The following codecs and file formats are supported:

H.264/MPEG-4 AVC in .mp4

H.264 or MPEG-4 Part 10, Advanced Video Coding (MPEG-4 AVC) in the .mp4 container is supported.

H.264/MPEG-4 AVC in .mov

H.264 or MPEG-4 Part 10, Advanced Video Coding (MPEG-4 AVC) in the .mov container is supported.

AVC Intra 100 in .mxf

AVC Intra-100 using the H.264/MPEG-4 AVC standard in the .mxf container is supported.

MPEG2 PS in .mpg

MPEG-2 (H.222/H.262) Program Stream with a .mpg file extension is supported.

IMX (SMPTE D10) in .mxf

MPEG IMX using H.262/MPEG-2 Part 2 encoding in a .mxf container is supported.

Playlists (.lst, .txt)

A server playlist is a text-based file residing in the ‘lists’ directory. Playlists can be created off-line and transferred to the server using FTP. See page 132 for further information on playlist file editing and management.

As-Run Logs (.arl)

As-Run logs are available as a document of content actually played. They may be extracted through FTP transfer. See page Error! Bookmark not defined. for further information on using As-Run logs.

TSS MINI Operations Manual Page 85

Network Time Protocol

Automatic Date/Time Updates

When using server play-lists in broadcast applications, an accurate record is often needed of what was played and when. The server’s As-Run logging feature creates such a record, time stamping each played clip using the machine’s internal date/time clock. Very accurate time stamping can be achieved by synchronizing the server’s clock to an external time base that is referenced to Coordinated Universal Time (UTC).

This is accomplished using the Network Time Protocol (NTP) to interrogate time servers through a network connection. A time server could be an in-house computer or dedicated time server that is equipped with a GPS receiver, or a radio receiver locked to signals from the NIST radio station WWV. Alternatively, public time servers may be used which are accessible through an Internet connection.

Connecting to the Internet

To obtain automatic date/time updates from the public time servers on the Internet, you will need to provide the server with Internet access. Generally, servers would be connected on a secure high-speed local area network, with any Internet connection going through a router with an integrated firewall. The Network Time Protocol uses TCP/IP port number 123, so be sure the firewall is configured to allow access to this port per Figure 28.

Figure 28 - NTP Network Block Diagram

Page 86 TSS MINI Operations Manual

Configuring NTP

The server GUI is used to set the time zone and to enter the networking parameters. The local GUI must be used, as these configuration screens are not available on the Remote Workstation Interface.

Selecting the Time Zone

Starting at the main menu bar, Click Edit >Configure >Date-Time screen. When “Automatic Updates” is not checked, the Region and Zone lists are enabled. Select your region and then the zone within that region. There may be more than one way to your zone; America/New York, for example, is the same as US/Eastern. Click the APPLY button to activate the settings,

After changing the time zone a Quick Restart must be performed before changes become effective.

Figure 29 - Date/Time Configuration Screen

When Automatic updates is checked, all functions on this page are locked out as they are automatically adjusted by the NTP service. The NTP Status will be updated when the NTP service checks the time, displaying the current Offset and Frequency adjustments to the clock.

TSS MINI Operations Manual Page 87

Entering Network Parameters From the GUI’s main menu bar, click EDIT>CONFIGURE>NETWORK. The following screen appears. Make sure the basic network parameters have been entered.

Figure 30 - Network Configuration Screen

Disable Network: uncheck

Host Name: (Any name will suffice, but since this name appears on each line of the server’s

diagnostic logs, it is a good idea to keep this short.) The name should also be unique from other devices on the network.

If “Use DHCP” if not checked, then enter a fixed IP address compatible with your local subnet. For example,

IP Address: 192.168.1.20 Net Mask: 255.255.255.0 Default Router: 192.168.1.1

The Name Servers and NTP Servers fields provide the information needed to reach the public time servers. The NTP Servers field contains a list of time servers, either by numeric IP address, or by site name (URL). Entries are separated by spaces.

The nonprofit Internet Systems Consortium, Inc. (ISC) maintains sites that automatically return lists of public time servers to an NTP client such as the server. Hence, the NTP Servers field is initially filled in with the URL’s for these sites (0.pool.ntp.org, for example). Of course you can overwrite this list with the addresses of specific time servers you may want to use. However, if you try to clear the NTP Servers field it will be reset to the default list.

Page 88 TSS MINI Operations Manual

Note: When URLs (non-numeric site addresses such as pool.ntp.org) are used in the NTP Servers field, the IP address of at least one DNS (Domain Name server) must be provided in the Name Servers field. Typically, this address is supplied by your Internet Service Provider.

These name servers translate URL names into numeric IP addresses needed to access the sites in question.

When using a GPS-based time server which is connected directly to a local area network, enter its numeric IP address (such as 192.168.1.60) into the NTP Servers field, leaving the Name Servers field blank.

Also, if you know the numeric IP addresses of the public or corporate time servers on the Internet, you can enter these addresses, separated by spaces, in the NTP Servers field, leaving the Name Servers field blank, since there would be no URLs to be resolved.

Note: Not all Network Time servers allow unlimited public access. Refer to www.ntp.org for more information.

Click the APPLY button to save your changes.

TSS MINI Operations Manual Page 89

Automation Control

The optional CXP-5 Auxiliary Interface Module’s serial control inputs connect with many broadcast automation systems, instant replay panels, video switchers, and remote control devices.

For compatibility with simple controllers and push buttons, the server also provides 12 GPI (contact closure) inputs, and 12 programmable command outputs.

Remote Serial Control

The server’s four 9-pin RS-422 serial control inputs permit control of their associated video channels. The following serial protocols are accepted:

 VDCP  BVW  ODETICS Extensions to the BVW protocol

Figure 31 - CXP-5 Detail of Serial Port Connectors

CH1 - Channel 1, also referred to as COM1 CH2 - Channel 2, also referred to as COM2 CH3 - Channel 3, also referred to as COM3 (Not used on TSS MINI) CH4 - Channel 4, also referred to as COM4 (Not used on TSS MINI)

With VDCP, each port can also respond to channel ID numbers that are equal to, or multiples of, its base number. For example, channel 1 will also respond to 5, 9, 13, etc. This can be helpful when an automation system needs to control a number of servers at once

The server’s multiple serial ports allow simultaneous connection of an automation controller and a desktop editing controller. For example, one could attach an edit controller to Channel 1 for record, playout, and editing; while an automation controller on Channel 3 manages play-toair operations. Alternatively, a single controller could control the operation of all server channels. A single VDCP controller will commonly control multiple server channels.

It is possible for a single VDCP controller to control multiple server channels through one physical serial port. This is up to the design of the controller; it cannot be configured in the server if the controller does not support it. When using a single port to control more than one

Page 90 TSS MINI Operations Manual

channel, be sure the Assigned Serial Ports option is unchecked. Do not attempt to use a different serial port to control one of the video channels that is under multichannel control.

Controller Priority

Only one serial controller can control a given video channel at a time. In general, the first controller to gain control of a video channel will have exclusive command. This prevents conflicting instructions that would cause unexpected behavior. The only exception is that the graphic user interface can immediately take control of a channel by deselecting Serial Control in that channel’s dialog window.

External controllers are prohibited from taking control away from the GUI. The Serial Control box must be checked in the channel dialog window before a remote control device can communicate with that channel.

Configuring the Automation Interface

Setting the automation protocol for a video channel

Each video channel can be configured independently for VDCP or BVW protocol.

To map a protocol to a channel, Click EDIT >CONFIGURE >SERIAL PORTS from the main pull-down menu. The screen of in Figure 32 is displayed. Use the PORT pulldown to select COM1, 2, or 3; these map to Video channels 1, 2, or 3.

 Select VDCP to map the port to VDCP protocol  Select BVW to map the port to BVW and ODETICS protocols

Note that the ODETICS protocol is layered with the BVW protocol, and that it supports clip names of up to eight characters only. Clips with longer names will not be displayed by an Odetics controller and will not be accessible. This includes the demo clips shipped with the server; see the section on page Error! Bookmark not defined. to rename the clips to allow their use for testing.

VDCP operation can allow control of a channel by ID number from a different numbered serial port, while BVW and Odetics protocol control only the channel number corresponding to the number of the serial port in use. When using both protocols, take care to not allow a VDCP controller to address a channel that is controlled by BVW/Odetics on another serial port.

If necessary turn on “Assigned Serial Ports” in VDCP Options – this will force VDCP to control the channel corresponding to the serial port it is connected to regardless of the channel ID in the control messages. This allows flexible assignment in control systems that limit choices of channel IDs, and also (with some systems) can reduce the possibility that, if the server is disconnected for any reason, the controller might have to be reset to resume communication.

TSS MINI Operations Manual Page 91

Figure 32 - Serial Port Configuration Screen

Setting the Automation Source Directory

By default, automation equipment will access the Home or Root directory as a source of clips. The directory accessed by automation equipment can be set for each port as follows.

Select the port to be used (COM1 or COM2).

Click on the FOLDER icon in the PATH field of the Serial Port Configuration Screen. Navigate to the folder to be accessed by automation equipment.

It is recommended that for most applications only the root directory be used, and the automation system be relied on for file management rather than the server. Automation can only see the clips that are in the assigned Automation Source Directory. There are two classes of applications for folders in conjunction with serial control:

Limiting the number of clips accessible to automation or remote controllers.

 Some controllers have limited capacity for clip display and selection. Using a folder to

present only the currently needed clips can streamline operation.

 Content can be prevented from being aired but still be readily accessible. Content can

be ingested at any time and made available to air by moving it into the Automation Source Directory.

 “Archived” material can be held in organized folders, then copied into the Automation

Source Directory as needed to air. The copies can then be deleted after airing without affecting the archived copy.

Page 92 TSS MINI Operations Manual

 Content for different purposes can be grouped in folders, and selected by changing the

Automation Source Directory.

Segregating material for different broadcast channels

 Content can be placed in a folder for each channel, and played out by separate

automation systems or controllers. Each channel can run completely independently – there can be duplicate file names with different content, and the opportunity for airing content on the wrong channel is greatly reduced.

 Content that is common to both channels can be copied into both directories. When this

is done in the GUI (as opposed to FTP transfer) the copies reference the same data so they are available immediately and take no additional disk space.

Other Automation Options

As illustrated in Figure 32, a number of check boxes are provided that control how the server will respond to certain VDCP commands. Once set, these options remain selected when the server is turned off, and until changed by the user.

NOTE: The following options will apply to both video channels. They cannot be individually configured for each video channel. Except where noted, they apply only to VDCP operation.

Cue Shows 1st Frame

Upon receiving a Cue With Data or a Play Cue command, the server will cue the clip then jog to and display the first frame of video. (This also applies to Odetics protocol.)

Cue with Offset (vs. Timestamp)

When checked, the time code for the clip becomes “zero-based” with reference to the head point. To move to the head point of the clip, the automation controller would send a time code value of 00:00:00:00, regardless of the clip’s original time stamp. When unchecked, the server will calculate time code position based upon the time stamp from the first frame of the unedited clip. Note that this only affects the operation of the serial port, it does not change the way the server displays time code in the GUI.

Variplay 1X Equals Play

The server will interpret a Variplay 1x command as a Play command. (This also applies to Odetics protocol.)

Variplay 0 Equals Pause

The server will interpret a Variplay 0x command as a Pause command. (This also applies to Odetics protocol.)

Report Play (vs Still) At End

When the end of a clip is reached, the server will report Play to the automation controller, instead of Still.

TSS MINI Operations Manual Page 93

Ignore Preroll Commands

A minimum 4-frame pre-roll is required to allow the server time to respond to serial commands. See the documentation for your controller or automation to find out how to set the preroll value. Due to various ways preroll commands are implemented in different systems, it may be sufficient to check only this box. A setting of 4 frames in the automation controller will then work correctly.

This option is very seldom used; it allows preroll commands to be ignored and assumes that the operational preroll is 4 frames. Do not check this unless you experience problems with frame accuracy on recordings and playback transitions. Start with a setting of 4 frames on the automation system and adjust until you achieve proper timing.

Auto E-E

Toggles Auto E-E mode (input monitor) on/off.

Assigned Serial Ports

VDCP protocol provides for altering the mapping of Serial Port to Video Channel via control commands. Checking this option will lock the Serial Port to Video Channel ordering.

 When checked, any command received on a particular serial port will be used to control

the like numbered video channel. This means that automation systems that use fixed or limited VDCP ID numbers can use any output to control any channel of the server.

 With this option checked, there is no requirement for a Port Open command to allow the

automation to control the channel. With some systems, this can negate the requirement to restart the automation system when bringing the server online.

 Do not check this option when using controllers that communicate with multiple

channels over a single serial port.

 Do not use this option with DNF Controls products.

Communication Port Parameters

The serial data transfer parameters for the server are fixed and cannot be changed. These characteristics are common to all automation controllers:

Baud Rate 38.4 K Baud

Start Bits 1 Data Bits 8

Parity Odd

Stop Bits 1

Page 94 TSS MINI Operations Manual

Tested Automation Controllers

VDCP

The server has been tested by 360 Systems and the manufacturers of equipment listed below, and found to operate correctly. This list is not comprehensive, and the inclusion or absence of a product does not indicate a preference for any make or model. Operational variations do exist between makes and models.

Manufacturer Controller Protocol Notes

HARRIS AUTOMATION ADC-100 VDCP ALL HARRIS CONTROLLERS SAME

SUNDANCE FAST BREAK VDCP

NVERZION EMC-NT VDCP

CRISPIN CORP. SYSTEM 2000 VDCP

FLORICAL AIR BOSS VDCP

VCI SOLUTIONS (DTG) AIRO VDCP

HARDATA HDX VIDEO ODETICS

IBIS ITA

PEBBLE BEACH SYSTEMS ANEMONE

PROBEL MORPHEUS PHAROS PLAYTIME

AVECO ASTRA

Tested Remote Control Panels and Switchers

360 Systems servers have been tested by 360 Systems as well as manufacturers of remote control devices and video switchers listed below, and found to operate correctly.

Manufacturer Controller Protocol Notes

ROSS VIDEO SYNERGY® SWITCHERS VDCP

ECHOLAB OPERA SWITCHERS VDCP

DNF CONTROLS

DNF CONTROLS 300-SSM P2 BVW-75, ALSO ODETICS PROTOCOL DNF CONTROLS D-MAT VDCP ALSO ODETICS WITH D-MAT-O

ASH VALE SM-2 P2 SLOW MOTION CONTROLLER

BUF VTC-4000 P2 BVW-75, ALSO ODETICS PROTOCOL BUF SPOT VDCP ALSO ODETICS PROTOCOL

LANCE DESIGNS TDC-100 ODETICS USE INT MODE

HI-TECH SYSTEMS ACTIV CART BOX VDCP ALL VDCP PRODUCTS SAME

4000-CL VDCP ALSO USED WITH DNF SHOT BOX



Uncheck “Assigned Serial Ports” in Serial Port Options when using any DNF Controls product.

TSS MINI Operations Manual Page 95

Remote Workstation Interface

The Remote Workstation Interface is a software application that provides control of the server from PC workstations located within a facility. A remote workstation can access one or more video channels of the server to perform ingest, playback, trimming, playlisting, traffic operations or monitoring of server activities.

Applications include—

 Control of a server located in a machine room

 Ingest station for loading commercials and other content from tape

 Edit station for trimming content

 Building, editing and running playlists

 Remote control of a server located at a transmitter site (“evergreen” backup)

 Access to file content and operations by engineering or management

 Control of more than one server from a single workstation

 On a wireless network, a server can be controlled by a secure

Wi-Fi enabled laptop computer

 Remote control in a conference room, or during auditorium presentations

 Servers may be securely controlled from a remote location, even across public Internet

connections, with inexpensive VPN (Virtual Private Network) technology.

A single server may be controlled from more than one different location on the network. See

Figure 33.

Similarly, a single computer can run multiple Remote Workstations to control multiple servers.

Remote Workstation software provides the same functionality as the local GUI with the following exceptions: It cannot access the server’s network configuration screen, shutdown the server, access the RAID status display, or display the server’s time-of-day clock.

As of this writing, the current version of Remote Workstation is 3.05.22; this is required to work with server software version 1.08.561.

Page 96 TSS MINI Operations Manual

System Requirements

 PC with Windows XP, Vista or Windows 7 installed. Other operating systems have not been

tested and may not be supported.

 10 MB free space on the computer hard disk, plus 128 MB RAM.

Figure 33 - Remote Workstation Deployments

About the Remote Workstation Interface

The Remote Workstation Interface consists of a CD-ROM or USB flash drive carrying the Remote Workstation application for Windows XP, Vista or Windows 7 computers. It selfinstalls using the normal Windows prompts. It is possible to install the Remote Workstation software on a number of PCs; any of them can then control one or more channels of one or more servers. Simultaneous active RWI connections to a particular server should be limited to three.

Operations

Up to four Remote Workstations can simultaneously view the channel activity of a single server. Only one Remote Workstation at a time can take control of a particular video channel. Control of the server video channel is not automatically granted to a Remote Workstation just by attempting to use the GUI; control must be actively taken, using the TAKE CONTROL option described below. This allows remote monitoring of server channel activity while greatly reducing the likelihood that a remote user will interfere with operations initiated by another. All Workstations, including the server’s local GUI, have equal priority and any can take control of a video channel at any time. Control is granted for server channels individually, and not automatically for all four; therefore, four Remote Workstations can each control a separate video channel. Each Remote Workstation can display or close transport windows without affecting other Workstations or the Local GUI.

TSS MINI Operations Manual Page 97

The IP address of a Remote Workstation currently controlling a channel appears in the status bar on the bottom-left of the Playlist or Channel window.

A menu labeled Options appears at the upper-left of each server channel window. Clicking this menu presents a drop-down menu with a TAKE CONTROL option. Select this then click Yes in the confirmation dialog to give control of the video channel to your workstation.

Page 98 TSS MINI Operations Manual

Installation

To install Remote Workstation software from CD-ROM or USB drive, insert the media into the PC.

 The auto-run capability of Windows will start the Remote Workstation setup program. If it

does not, select the Run… option of the taskbar Start Menu and type: D:\setup.exe. If necessary, replace D:\ with the drive letter of the flash drive.

 You will be prompted to enter the IP address of the server you wish to control. If you know

the address, enter it here. This information can also be entered after installation.

 Read the terms under which this software is licensed to you. If you agree, installation will

continue. If you do not agree, installation will stop. Follow the prompts to finish installation.

 By default, the Remote Workstation software installs all required files into the

“C:\Program Files\ Image Server RWI” folder. However, during the installation process an alternate directory may be specified. If a previous version of Remote Workstation is already installed on the Host computer, use this feature to install the new version in a uniquely named folder, for example C:\Program Files\MAXX2420-SHD.

After Installation

A 360 Systems Remote Workstation icon will appear on your desktop. Double click the icon to open a remote session on the server.

TSS MINI Operations Manual Page 99

Figure 34 – Remote Workstation Properties Page

Because multiple simultaneous sessions of Remote Workstation may be run on a single PC, it is possible to make copies of the Remote Workstation icon and change the IP address of each, to permit access to any number of servers. Simply right click on the Remote Workstation icon and select Copy from the pop-up menu. Next, right click anywhere on the desktop and select Paste. Finally, follow the instructions above to edit the IP address to match the second server.

Page 100 TSS MINI Operations Manual

360 Systems TSS MINI-2100 Operation Guide

Specifications and Main Features

Frequently Asked Questions

User Manual