Grass Valley LDK 7500 User Guide

User’s Guide

3922 496 49801

PRINTED: January 2004

LDK 7500 + LDK 5490

VIPER - DIGITAL CINEMATOGRAPHIC CAMERA SYSTEM

Declaration of Conformity

We, Thomson Broadcast Solutions B.V., Kapittelweg 10, 4827 HG Breda, The Netherlands, declare under our sole responsibility that this
product is in compliance with the following standards:

EN60065 : Safety
EN55103-1 : EMC (Emission)
EN55103-2 : EMC (Immunity)

following the provisions of:

a. the Safety Directives 73/23//EEC and 93/68/EEC
b. the EMC Directives 89/336/EEC and 93/68/EEC

FCC Class A Statement

This product generates, uses, and can radiate radio frequency energy and if not installed and used in accordance with the instructions,
may cause interference to radio communications.
It has been tested and found to comply with the limits for a class A digital device pursuant to part 15 of the FCC rules, which are
designed to provide reasonable protection against such interference when operated in a commercial environment.
Operation of this product in a residential area is likely to cause interference in which case the user at his own expense will be required to
take whatever measures may be required to correct the interference.

Copyright

Für diese Unterlage behalten wir uns alle
Rechte vor (Gemäß DIN 34). Technische
Änderungen im Zuge der
Weiterentwicklung vorbehalten.

© Copyright Thomson Broadcast and Media Solutions 2004

Copying of this document and giving it to
others, and the use or communication of
the contents thereof, are forbidden
without express authority. Offenders are
liable to the payment of damages. All
rights are reserved in the event of the grant
of a patent or the registration of a utility
model or design. Liable to technical
alterations in the course of further
development.

Toute communication ou reproduction de
ce document, toute exploitation ou
communication de son contenu sont
interdites, sauf autorisation expresse. Tout
man-quement à cette règle est illicite et
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réservés pour le cas de la délivrance d'un
modèle d'utilité. Sous réserve de
modification au cours de l'évolution
technique.

Viper

Digital Cinematographic Camera

Operator's Manual

The Viper FilmStream Camera combines two different application
concepts in a single camera. By selecting the operation mode, the
camera operates either as a HD video camera or as a digital film camera.
The digital film camera mode is known as the FilmStream mode.

Using this manual

This manual is divided into two parts:

Part 1

Describes how to set-up and use the camera as a digital film camera
in the FilmStream mode.

Part 2

Describes how to set-up and use the camera as a HD video camera.

03.18.5 i

Contents - Part 1 - FilmStream mode

Important Precautions .................................................................................. iv

Introduction............................................................................................... 1-1

Selecting operational mode ........................................................................ 1-2

Streaming modes ....................................................................................... 1-3

Technology ................................................................................................. 1-4

Access and Security ................................................................................... 1-6

Assembling the Units............................................................................... 2-1

Lens ............................................................................................................ 2-2

2-inch Viewfinder ........................................................................................ 2-4

Positioning the 2-inch viewfinder ............................................................... 2-6

Tripod Adapter Plate (optional) ..................................................................2-8

Shoulder Pad ............................................................................................2-10

Configurations .......................................................................................... 3-1

Configurations ............................................................................................3-2

Camera Controls ...................................................................................... 4-1

Power Supply ............................................................................................. 4-2

FilmStream Connectors ............................................................................. 4-4

FilmStream Camera Functions .................................................................. 4-6

Viewfinder Indicators ................................................................................4-12

System Menu Control ............................................................................... 4-17

Auxilary Functions .................................................................................... 4-18

Set-up and operation ............................................................................... 5-1

Setting up the camera ................................................................................5-2

Operating the camera ................................................................................. 5-4

Using the Menus ....................................................................................... 6-1

Introduction .................................................................................................6-2

Menu System .............................................................................................. 6-3

Menu Structure ........................................................................................... 6-6

Security Menu ............................................................................................. 6-7

Files Menu .................................................................................................. 6-8

ii Viper

Contents - Part 2 - HD Video mode

Introduction............................................................................................... 1-1

Selecting operational mode ........................................................................ 1-2

HD Video mode ..........................................................................................1-3

Technology ................................................................................................. 1-4

Access and Security ................................................................................... 1-6

Assembling the Units............................................................................... 2-1

Transport Case ...........................................................................................2-2

Lens ............................................................................................................ 2-4

2-inch Viewfinder ........................................................................................ 2-6

Positioning the 2-inch viewfinder ............................................................... 2-8

2-inch Viewfinder Accessories ................................................................. 2-10

Microphone ...............................................................................................2-12

Shoulder Pad ............................................................................................2-14

Top Light (option) ..................................................................................... 2-15

Tripod Adapter Plate (option) ................................................................... 2-16

Configurations .......................................................................................... 3-1

Configurations ............................................................................................3-2

Camera Controls ...................................................................................... 4-1

Power Supply ............................................................................................. 4-2

Video Connectors ....................................................................................... 4-4

Video Functions ..........................................................................................4-6

Viewfinder .................................................................................................4-12

Viewfinder Indicators ................................................................................4-14

Audio ......................................................................................................... 4-18

System Menu Control ............................................................................... 4-19

Auxilary Functions .................................................................................... 4-20

Set-up and operation ............................................................................... 5-1

Setting up the camera ................................................................................5-2

Operating the camera ................................................................................. 5-4

Shooting screens ......................................................................................5-10

Using the Menus ....................................................................................... 6-1

Introduction .................................................................................................6-2

Menu System .............................................................................................. 6-3

Menu Structure ........................................................................................... 6-6

Security Menu ............................................................................................. 6-7

Files Menu .................................................................................................. 6-8

Install Menu ..............................................................................................6-10

Appendix

03.18.5 iii

Important Precautions

To ensure continual high performance from the camcorder take the
following precautions into consideration:

Avoid very damp places. If the environment is wet
or damp a rain cover must be used to protect the
unit.

Do not subject the unit to severe shocks or vibration.

Do not expose the camera to extremes of
temperature.

Do not leave the unit in direct sunlight or close to
heating appliances for extended periods.

Do not allow sunlight to shine into the viewfinder.

iv Viper

Warning

If the camera is in a wet or damp environment, a rain cover must be
used to protect it for personal safety reasons (EN60065). The optional
rain cover protects the camera according to safety specification
EN60529 up to level IPX2 (spraying water).

FCC Class A Statement

This equipment generates, uses, and can radiate radio frequency
energy and if not installed and used in accordance with the instructions,
may cause interference to radio communications.
It has been tested and found to comply with the limits for a class A
digital device pursuant to part 15 of FCC rules, which are designed to
provide reasonable protection against such interference when oper­ated in a commercial environment.
Operation of this equipment in a residential area is likely to cause
interference in which case the user at his own expense will be required
to take whatever measures may be required to correct the interference.

03.18.5 v

vi Viper

Section 1

Introduction

This section describes the FilmStream mode of operation and

outlines the technology used in the Viper. The access and

security features of the camera are also explained.

Contents

Selecting operational mode ............................................................. 1-2

Streaming modes .............................................................................. 1-3

Technology ....................................................................................... 1-4

Access and Security .......................................................................... 1-6

Introduction FilmStream mode 1-1

Selecting operational mode

To operate in the FilmStream mode you must ensure that the camera
is switched to this mode. The output signals and the control functions
that are available depend on the mode you select.

The factory default for the mode setting is the FilmStream mode, so
normally you do not have to switch modes to operate the camera as
a digital film camera.

If a different mode has been set up, then you need to switch to the
FilmStream mode by changing a menu setting (for more details refer
to Section 5).

To change modes:

1. Open the menu system.

2. Go to the Install menu.

3. Select Output mode item.

4. Change the value to FilmStream or HDStream.

The camera remembers the last selected mode, so it remains in the
FilmStream mode even when switched off and on again.

Monitoring

To provide a monitoring signal for viewing, a separate channel is used
which undergoes some video processing to make it acceptable for
viewing on monitors and viewfinders. Although derived from the same
sensor signals, this channel is entirely separate from the main FilmStream
output.

The Viper does not have any adjustable visual parameters for the
FilmStream outputs. Framing, focussing, exposure setting, shutter
angle and optical filtering are the only operations required of the
camera and lens operators.

1-2 FilmStream mode Viper

Streaming modes

FilmStream mode

The FilmStream mode differs from the HD video mode in that it
captures all information in a scene and stores it digitally without
altering any parameters. By avoiding video processing in the raw RGB
data, the output signal is a true and faithful representation of the light
from the scene. Thus the FilmStream digital data signals are full-range
signals suitable for film post-production without any loss of information.

Capturing the light

The Viper uses three high-definition CCD sensors to register the light
from the lens. The signals from these sensors are converted to R, G, and
B data values using 12-bit A/D converters. Using logarithmic calculations
this data is then converted to 10-bit values and transferred to a recorder
using a dual HD-SDI link. Full resolution is maintained: true-progressive
1920 x 1080 pixels for every color. No color sub-sampling, no color
space conversions, no irreversible video manipulations, no further
quantizations, and no compression is carried out.

HDStream mode

The output mode can also be set to HDStream. This mode provides
signals similar to the FilmStream signals but in a 4:2:2 HD-SDI format.
These HDStream signals are subject to white balancing in the camera
but like FilmStream signals, they do not undergo any other video
processing. HDStream mode is ideal when storage capacity is limited
or for applications where lower resolution signals are sufficient, such
as background for keying.

Introduction FilmStream mode 1-3

Technology

CCD sensor technology

The Viper FilmStream Camera uses three unique 9.2 Megapixel HD­DPM+ CCD sensors that allow the camera to work in several formats;
1080 lines at 24/25/30 frames per second or 720 lines at 24/25/30/50/
60 frames per second.

This CCD sensor is based on the Frame-Transfer principle which is best
suited for progressive images. The Viper uses a mechanical shutter
which means that the CCD exposure has a similar ramp to film cameras,
thus providing similar motion characteristics.

Formats

The following formats can be selected in the Install menu:

1080psf at 23.98Hz
1080psf at 24Hz
1080psf at 25Hz
1080psf at 29.97Hz
1080i at 50Hz
1080i at 59.94Hz
1080i at 59.94Hz - 23

720p at 23.98Hz
720p at 25Hz
720p at 29.97Hz
720p at 50Hz
720p at 59.94Hz

The sensor consists of 1920 horizontal pixels and 4320 vertical sub­pixels. By grouping the vertical sub-pixels, the vertical line count can
be set. Full resolution is preserved and the horizontal viewing angle
stays the same.

• 1080P

When four vertical sub-pixels are combined, the total line count
becomes 1080 lines. So, a 1920 x 1080 image sensor is obtained with
a 16:9 aspect ratio.

1-4 FilmStream mode Viper

• 1080i

When eight vertical sub-pixels are combined, the total line count
becomes 540 lines. The second field is shifted four pixels to give an
interlaced picture.

• 720P

When six vertical sub-pixels are combined, then the total line count
becomes 720 lines. So, a 1920 x 720 image sensor is obtained with a 16:9
aspect ratio. When set to 60 frames per second, slow motion effects can
be achieved during post-production at different playback speeds.

• Cinemascope Aspect Ratio

When three vertical sub-pixels are combined, 1440 vertical lines are
obtained. By using the middle 1080 lines, a 2.37:1 aspect ratio is
achieved without the need for anamorphic lenses while maintaining
full 1920 x 1080 resolution. There is no need to crop the image or lose
resolution to get this aspect ratio.

Introduction FilmStream mode 1-5

Access and Security

Camera cards

Three camera cards are delivered with each camera; one owner’s card
and two user cards. An owner’s card is linked to the serial number of
the camera and is unique to that camera. It cannot be used as an
owner’s card for another camera.
The owner’s card acts as:

• an access control device to the security settings of the camera.

• a storage card for four scene files and two operator files.
The user card stores four scene files and two operator files.

Operator files contain information relating to the set-up of general
camera preferences. Scene files contain information relating to the
video settings of the camera head.

Owner’s card

1-6 FilmStream mode Viper

User card

Access control

The owner’s card or the PIN code is used to access special set-up and
security features of the camera. Inserting the owner’s card into the
camera gives direct access to the Security menu. If you select the
Security menu without this card inserted, you must enter the correct
PIN code to gain access to this menu.

User levels

Four user levels can be set in the security menu. These restrict access,
in varying degrees, to the operational controls. The appendix indicates
which functions are available at each user level.

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Insert your camera card into this slot with the chip on the card facing
the front of the camera. Push the card home until it fits snugly.
A camera card is not required for normal operation of the camera.

Camera card slot

Note

Only use an original camera card.

Store the owner’s card in a safe place.

Introduction FilmStream mode 1-7

1-8 FilmStream mode Viper

Section 2

Assembling the Units

This section provides information on the physical assembly

of the camera and on the mounting of accessories.

Contents

Lens ................................................................................................... 2-2

2-inch Viewfinder ............................................................................. 2-4

Positioning the 2-inch viewfinder .................................................... 2-6

Tripod Adapter Plate (optional) ...................................................... 2-8

Shoulder Pad ................................................................................... 2-10

Assembling the Units FilmStream mode 2-1

Lens

1

2

4

3

5

2-2 FilmStream mode Viper

Attach a lens to the camera head as follows:
a. Ensure that the lens locking ring (1) is in the unlocked position -

turned counterclockwise.

b. Remove the dust protection cap (2).
c. Slot the lens into the lens mount (3).

Caution

Do not attach a lens weighing more than 5 kg to the

camera without a support.

d. Turn the lens locking ring (1) clockwise to lock the lens in place.
e. Connect the lens cable, if any, to the lens connector (4) at the right

side of the camera.

f. Place the lens cable into the bottom clip at the front of the camera

and clip (5) located at the side. (Pull and twist clip (5) to open it.)

g. In the Lens menu, set the Lens Type item to Std for a standard lens

or to WA for a wide angle lens.

h. Select the lens manufacturer in the Lens menu. Select Ang for

Angenieux, Can for Canon, Fuj1 or Fuj2 for Fujinon or select Other
for other lens manufacturers.

Note:

Always mount the dust protection cap when the lens is not connected
to the camera.

When a new lens is fitted to the camera it may be necessary to carry
out some adjustments to optimize its use, for example, back focus. For
more information about these adjustments refer to the lens
manufacturer’s documentation.

Assembling the Units FilmStream mode 2-3

2-inch Viewfinder

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6

5

4

2-4 FilmStream mode Viper

Mounting the 2-inch viewfinder and microphone holder

To mount the 2-inch viewfinder proceed as follows:
a. Loosen locking ring (1) of viewfinder support bracket (2) at the

front of the camera handle. (As seen from the rear of the camera,
turning the locking ring counterclockwise moves it towards the
handle.)

b. Slide the viewfinder onto the viewfinder support bracket.
c. Tighten the locking ring (1) by turning it clockwise (as seen from

rear) so that the viewfinder is mounted securely to the support.

d. Connect the viewfinder cable to the viewfinder connector socket

(4) at the top right of the camera.

e. Slide the microphone holder (5) onto the viewfinder and secure

with the knurled screw (6).

Caution

Always fit the microphone holder (5) even if you don’t use

a microphone as it functions as a safety stop for the

viewfinder.

f. To improve the comfort of the skin contact when using the

viewfinder, fit the eyepiece cover (3) to the rubber eyepiece.

Assembling the Units FilmStream mode 2-5

Positioning the 2-inch viewfinder

1

2

3

5

2-6 FilmStream mode Viper

4

The horizontal position of the viewfinder can be adjusted as follows to
suit your requirements:
a. Loosen the locking ring (1). (As seen from the rear of the camera,

turning the locking ring counterclockwise moves it towards the
handle.)

b. Slide the viewfinder horizontally along the rail to the desired

position.

c. Tighten the locking ring (1) by turning clockwise.

The dioptre hood and eyepiece of the viewfinder can be rotated
vertically.

The viewfinder can be positioned backwards and forwards along the
camera axis. Loosen the support bracket round bar retaining lever (2)
and slide the round bar (3) forwards or backwards. When the desired
position is reached tighten the support bracket round bar retaining
lever (2) again.

To use the viewfinder at a distance press the button (4) below or above
the eyepiece tube and swing it free of the associated clip (5). The
display can now be seen from further away.

Assembling the Units FilmStream mode 2-7

Tripod Adapter Plate (optional)

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To mount the camera on a tripod, the tripod plate (LDK 5031 is
available as an option) must first be attached to the tripod.

Follow the tripod manufacturer’s instructions to mount the wedge
plate supplied with the tripod and the tripod adapter plate firmly onto
the tripod.

2-8 FilmStream mode Viper

Attach the camera to the tripod adapter plate as follows:
a. Slide the camera horizontally along the tripod adapter plate from

back to front ensuring that the front of the camera engages the V­slot (1) at the front of the tripod adapter plate, and that the slot on
the bottom of the camera engages the stud (2) at the rear of the

tripod adapter plate.
b. Firmly push the camera forward until it clicks into place.
c. When the camera is mounted on the tripod tighten thE locking

lever (5) to ensure that the stud (2) at the rear of the plate is locked

firmly in place.

Caution

Failure to attach the camera to the tripod adapter plate in

the correct manner could result in an unsecured camera.

Ensure that the rear stud (2) is engaged and that the camera

clicks into place.

To remove the camera from the tripod proceed as follows:
a. When removing the camera first open the locking lever (5) to free

the rear stud (2).
b Press the red locking lever (3) against release handle (4) on the

tripod adapter plate and hold.
c. Ensure that you have a firm hold of the camera.
d. Pull the release handle (4) forward.
e. Move the camera backwards and up. The camera is now free from

the tripod adapter plate.

Assembling the Units FilmStream mode 2-9

Shoulder Pad

1

To change the position of the shoulder pad press and hold lever (1).
The shoulder pad can now be moved backwards and forwards along
the axis of the camera. Adjust the shoulder pad when all units have
been mounted so that the best balanced position can be obtained.

2-10 FilmStream mode Viper

Section 3

Configurations

This section describes how the Viper can be connected to

external equipment and how it can be configured with an

external recorder.

Contents

Configurations ................................................................................... 3-2

Configurations FilmStream mode 3-1

Configurations

FilmStream system diagram

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FilmStream/RGB/YUV

HD-SDI viewing, CVBS

Hard disks

to post-production

To off-line editing

Break-out

Rec. Start

Tally return

Cam. Audio 1x

box

Hard disk

capture

system

Off-line tape

HD-SD

converter

SD

off-line

recorder

HD-SDI viewing

CVBS

SDI

(Off-line copy from
SDI or CVBS)

More audio

Time code

3-2 FilmStream mode Viper

HDStream system diagram

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To post-production

On-line tape

Off-line tapeTo off-line editing

Voodoo

HD-D5

HD-CAM

Break-out

box

YUV (HD-SDI)
(Rec. Start)
(Tally return)
Cam. Audio 1x

SD

off-line

recorder

12V power
2nd HD-SDI
CVBS

HD-SD

converter

or

SDI

More audio
Time code

Configurations FilmStream mode 3-3

3-4 FilmStream mode Viper