Panasonic AJ-SD955 Operating Instructions

Digital Video Cassette Recorder

Operating Instructions

AJ- P

Model No. AJ- P

P

Before operating this product, please read the instructions carefully and save this manual for future use.

Printed in Japan
S0802W

@

VQT9955

IMPORTANT

“Unauthorized recording of copyrighted television programs, video tapes and other materials may infringe the
right of copyright owners and be contrary to copyright laws.”

CAUTION

RISK OF ELECTRIC SHOCK

DO NOT OPEN

CAUTION: TO REDUCE THE RISK OF ELECTRIC SHOCK,

DO NOT REMOVE COVER (OR BACK).

REFER TO SERVICING TO QUALIFIED SERVICE PERSONNEL.

THIS APPARATUS MUST BE GROUNDED

$

To ensure safe operation the three-pin plug must be
inserted only into a standard three-pin power outlet
which is effectively grounded through normal
household wiring.
Extension cords used with the equipment must be
three-core and be correctly wired to provide
connection to the ground. Incorrectly wired extension
cords can be extremely hazardous.
The fact that the equipment operates satisfactorily
does not imply that it is grounded, and the installation
is not necessarily safe. For your safety, if in any doubt
about the effective grounding of the equipment or
power outlet, please consult a qualified electrician.

NO USER SERVICEABLE PARTS INSIDE.

The lightning flash with arrowhead symbol,
within an equilateral triangle, is intended to
alert the user to the presence of uninsulated
“dangerous voltage” within the product’s
enclosure that may be of sufficient magnitude
to constitute a risk of electric shock to
persons.

The exclamation point within an equilateral
triangle is intended to alert the user to the
presence of important operating and
maintenance (service) instructions in the
literature accompanying the appliance.

WARNING:

TO REDUCE THE RISK OF FIRE OR SHOCK
HAZARD, DO NOT EXPOSE THIS EQUIPMENT TO
RAIN OR MOISTURE.

TO REDUCE THE RISK OF FIRE OR SHOCK
HAZARD, KEEP THIS EQUIPMENT AWAY FROM
ALL LIQUIDS-USE AND STORE ONLY IN
LOCATIONS WHICH ARE NOT EXPOSED TO THE
RISK OF DRIPPING OR SPLASHING LIQUIDS, AND
DO NOT PLACE ANY LIQUID CONTAINERS ON
TOP OF THE EQUIPMENT.

CAUTION:

Do not install or place this unit in a bookcase,
built-in cabinet or any other confined space in
order to maintain adequate ventilation. Ensure
that curtains and any other materials do not
obstruct the ventilation to prevent risk of electric
shock or fire hazard due to overheating.

CAUTION:

TO REDUCE THE RISK OF FIRE OR SHOCK
HAZARD AND ANNOYING INTERFERENCE, USE
THE RECOMMENDED ACCESSORIES ONLY.

CAUTION:

TO REDUCE THE RISK OF FIRE OR SHOCK
HAZARD, REFER MOUNTING OF THE OPTIONAL
INTERFACE BOARD TO QUALIFIED SERVICE
PERSONNEL.

CAUTION:

TO REDUCE THE RISK OF FIRE OR SHOCK
HAZARD, REFER CHANGE OF SWITCH SETTING
INSIDE THE UNIT TO QUALIFIED SERVICE
PERSONNEL.

CAUTION:

Keep the temperature inside the rack to between

O

41°F to 104°F (5°C to 40°C).
Bolt the rack securely to the floor so that it will

O

not topple over when VTR is drawn out.

FCC Note:

This device complies with Part 15 of the FCC Rules.
To assure continued compliance follow the attached
installation instructions and do not make any
unauthorized modifications.

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

CAUTION:

This apparatus can be operated at a voltage in the
range of 100 – 240 V AC.
Voltage other than 120 V is not intended for U.S.A.
and Canada.

CAUTION:

Operation at a voltage other than 120 V AC may
require the use of a different AC plug. Please contact
either a local or foreign Panasonic authorized service
center for assistance in selecting an alternate AC
plug.

indicates safety information.

2

Contents

Introduction . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .3

Features . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .4

Parts and their functions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .5

Front panel . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .5

Display panel . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .11

Rear panel . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .13

Connections . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .15

Tapes . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .17

Jog/Shuttle . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .18

Manual editing . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .19

Preroll . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .19

SD955A

Automatic editing (deck-to-deck) . . . . . . .20

SD955A

SD955A

Switch settings and adjustments . . . . . . . . . . . . .20

Selecting the editing mode . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .21

Registering the edit points . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .21

Checking and previewing edit points . . . . . . . . . .22

Modifying edit points . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .23

Executing and reviewing automatic editing . . . . .24

Audio split editing . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .25

Variable memory editing . . . . . . . . . . . . . .27

SD955A

SD955A

Setup (initial settings) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .28

Setup menus . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .29

SYSTEM menu . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .32

USER menus . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .34

<BASIC> . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .34

<OPERATION> . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .36

<INTERFACE> . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .39

<EDIT> . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .40

<TAPE PROTECT> . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .42

<TIME CODE> . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .43

<VIDEO> . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .45

<AUDIO> . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .48

<V BLANK> . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .51

<MENU> . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .54

Time code/user’s bit . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .55

Superimpose screen . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .57

Video output signals and servo reference

signal . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .58

Audio V fade function . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .60

Audio recording channel and monitor output

selection . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .61

Printed circuit board . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .61

Rack mounting . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .62

Video head cleaning . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .63

Condensation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .63

Maintenance . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .63

Error messages . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .64

RS-232C interface . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .69

SDTI interface . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .74

Connector signals . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .75

Specifications . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .77

Introduction

The AJ-SD930 and AJ-SD955A are multi-purpose
studio digital VTRs which utilize small, 1/4-inch wide
cassette tapes for high quality recording, playback
and editing of video images recorded at a rate of 50
Mbps in addition to recording, playback and editing in
DVCPRO (25 Mbps) format.
These VTRs incorporate digital compression
technology to dramatically reduce deterioration of
picture quality and sound resulting from dubbing,
thereby attaining high picture quality.

These operating instructions include descriptions for both the AJ-SD955A and AJ-SD930.
Descriptions which concern only the AJ-SD955A are marked with .

These units also come equipped with a variety of
functions, such as assemble and insert functions,
which are necessary when performing editing
operations with a VTR.
(Editing operations cannot be performed with the AJ­SD930 alone; however, these operations are possible
if an external controller is connected to the unit.)

SD955A

3

Features

Light and compact

This unit is a 4U size digital VTR and can be easily
mounted in a 19-inch rack by using the rack mounting
adapters (AJ-MA75P, optional accessory).

Up to 92 minutes of recording

M cassettes (max. 33 minutes) and L cassettes (max.
92 minutes) can be used with this unit. Tape width is a
compact 1/4-inch.

Superior picture quality

Superior picture quality is achieved through 4:2:2
component signal recording at 2 times the recording
rate of the existing DVCPRO (25 Mbps) format.

Switching between 525i and 625i TV
systems

By selecting the setting (setup menu item No. 070)
that matches the video input signal TV system (525i or
625i), the signals of each TV system can be recorded
and/or played back.

SD955A

SDI interface

A 4:2:2 serial digital interface is a standard feature.

Compatibility with DVCPRO (25 Mbps)
format

This unit can record, play back and edit material in the
existing DVCPRO (25 Mbps) format.

Compatibility with general consumer
video equipment

DV cassette tapes containing material shot with a
consumer digital camera or the like can be played
back on this unit. A cassette adapter (AJ-CS455P) is
necessary when a mini DV cassette tape is to be
used.

Digital slow motion/jog dial

Panasonic’s original digital slow-motion technology
makes it possible to attain clear pictures even during
slow playback at speeds of –0.43 to +0.43/+0.5/+0.75.
(DVCPRO, DVCPRO50)

Multifunctional interface

O Serial digital input/output

A component serial interface is provided as
standard and enables interfacing of the serial digital
component signals.

O Analog video input/output

Both composite and component signal outputs are
provided as standard.
Use of an analog video input board (AJ-YA931G,
optional accessory) enables interfacing of the
component (Y, PB, PR) and composite signal input.

Use the AJ-YA932G analog video input board
when the AJ-SD955A is to be used with a 625i
system.

O AES/EBU audio input/output

Digital audio input/output connectors are provided.

O SDTI input/output

Use of an SDTI board (AJ-YAC930G, optional
accessory) enables input/output interfacing of the
SDTI (Serial Data Transport Interface) signals.

O 9-pin RS-422A/RS-232C remote

In addition to the standard 9-pin serial remote (RS­422A), RS-232C and 25-pin parallel remote
connectors are also provided.
The RS-422A enables another VTR to be operated
in parallel with the unit if loop connection is used.

O 4-channel, high-sound-quality digital audio

The 4-channel PCM audio enables independent
editing for all four channels in addition to channel
mixing.

O Menu-based setup

The setup settings, which are conducted prior to
operating the unit, are performed while viewing the
setup menus on the unit’s display or a TV monitor.

Dial shuttle

Color images can be played back in forward and
reverse directions up to a maximum of a32 normal
playback speed.

Time codes

This unit has a built-in TCG (time code
generator)/TCR (time code reader).
In addition to the internal time code, external time
code input or input signal VITC can be recorded on
this VTR as the time code.

4

Parts and their functions

ON

OFF

POWER

DV

DVCPRO

DVCPRO 50

METER

L

R

FULL/FINE

MONITOR SELECT

HEADPHONES

MONITOR MIX

INPUT SELECT

PREVIEW/PREVIEW

AUTO EDIT

PREROLL

VIDEO

REC LEVEL

CH1

PB LEVEL

AUDIO

CH2 CH3 CH4

TC

PRESET

MENU SET DIAG

SUPER REC INH

INT TCG

MODE

CONTROL

ON

OFF

UNITY

VAR

COUNTER

RESET

A IN

TRIM

SET

OUTIN

A OUT

CH1 CH4CH2

INSERT

CH3

ASSEM

VIDEO CUE TC

STAND BY

EDIT

REW STOP

PLAY REC

PLAYER

RECORDER

FF

JOG SHTL SLOW

TAPE

EE

ON

REGEN
PRESET

EXIT

OFF

REMOTE

LOCAL

1 2 3 45

Front panel

1 POWER switch

2 Format display area

The recording format and the format of the tape
inserted in the unit are displayed here.

DVCPRO50:

This indicates recording and playback of
DVCPRO50 (50 Mbps) format tapes.

DVCPRO:

This indicates recording and playback of
DVCPRO (25 Mbps) format tapes.

DV:

This indicates playback of DV format tapes.

3 Cassette insertion slot

4 EJECT button

When this button is pressed, the tape is unloaded
and the cassette is ejected automatically a few
seconds later.
When CTL display has been selected for the
counter display, the display is reset.
EJECT button operation can be enabled or disabled
with setup menu No. 115 (EJECT SW INH).

5 INPUT SELECT buttons

These buttons switch the video and audio input
signals. It is also possible to switch the input signals
to the internal reference signal selected on setup
menu No. 600 (INT SG).

VIDEO:

Each time the VIDEO button is pressed, the input
video signal selection is switched in the order of
Y PB PR 5 CMPST 5 SDI 5 SDTI/1394 5 SG
(SG/SG1/SG2).
O When SG has been selected, the signal is

switched to the internal reference signal
selected on setup menu No. 600 (INT SG).

AUDIO:

Each time the AUDIO button is pressed, the
input audio signal selection is switched in the
order of ANALOG 5 AES/EBU 5 USER SET 5
SDI 5 SDTI/1394 5 SG.
O USER SET is a function which enables the

input signals to be selected and recorded
separately on PCM audio signal channels 1
through 4, and is used in conjunction with the
setup menu.

Example:

Settings

AUDIO button

USER SET

Setup menus

No.715 (CH1 IN SEL) : ANA
No.716 (CH2 IN SEL) : DIGI
No.717 (CH3 IN SEL) : DIGI
No.718 (CH4 IN SEL) : ANA
No.719 (D IN SEL12) : AES
No.720 (D IN SEL34) : SIF

PCM audio signals to be recorded on the tape

CH1 : Analog input signals
CH2 : AES/EBU digital signals
CH3 : SDI input digital signals
CH4 : Analog input signals

<Notes>

O It is possible to inhibit input switching operations

(video and audio) of the INPUT SELECT buttons
with setup menu No. 112 (V IN SEL INH) and
No. 113 (A IN SEL INH).

O Y PB PR, CMPST and SDTI/1394 cannot be

selected unless one of the optional boards (AJ­YA931G, AJ-YAC930G) has been installed.

5

ON

OFF

POWER

DV

DVCPRO

DVCPRO 50

METER

L

R

FULL/FINE

MONITOR SELECT

HEADPHONES

MONITOR MIX

INPUT SELECT

PREVIEW/PREVIEW

AUTO EDIT

PREROLL

VIDEO

REC LEVEL

CH1

PB LEVEL

AUDIO

CH2 CH3 CH4

TC

PRESET

MENU SET DIAG

SUPER REC INH

INT TCG

MODE

CONTROL

ON

OFF

UNITY

VAR

COUNTER

RESET

A IN

TRIM

SET

OUTIN

A OUT

CH1 CH4CH2

INSERT

CH3

ASSEM

VIDEO CUE TC

STAND BY

EDIT

REW STOP

PLAY REC

PLAYER

RECORDER

FF

JOG SHTL SLOW

TAPE

EE

ON

REGEN
PRESET

EXIT

OFF

REMOTE

LOCAL

6<; 97

8:

Parts and their functions

Front panel

9 FF button

When this button is pressed, the tape is fast
forwarded.
The fast forwarding speed can be selected using
setup menu No.102 (FF. REW MAX).

: REW button

When this button is pressed, the tape is rewound.
The rewinding speed can be selected using setup

TRIM button MODE switch

6 PLAY button

Press this button to start playback.
When this button is pressed together with the REC
button, recording starts.
On the AJ-SD955A, when this button is pressed
together with the EDIT button during playback, manual
editing starts. However, manual editing will not be
initiated if the servo is not locked. When only the
PLAY button is pressed during manual editing, editing
is exited, and the playback mode is established.
When the TRIM+ (or TRIM–) button is pressed while
this button is held down, playback speed will be
increased (or decreased) by the frame mode unit
selected for the setup menu No. 108 (CAP. LOCK)
setting each time one of the TRIM buttons is pressed.

<Note>

The servo lamp turns off while the speed is being
increased or decreased. At this time, nise occur in the
playback audio signal.

7 REC button

When this button is pressed together with the PLAY
button, recording starts.
When it is pressed during playback, a search, fast
forwarding or rewinding, the E-E mode pictures and
audio signals can be monitored while it is held down.
When it is pressed in the stop mode, the E-E mode
pictures and audio signals can be monitored. When
the STOP button is pressed, the original pictures and
sound are restored.

8 STOP button

When this button is pressed, the tape stops traveling,
and if the MODE switch is set to TAPE, still pictures
can be monitored. Even in the stop mode, the drum
continues to rotate, and the tape remains tightly
wound around the drum.
When the VTR is left in the stop mode beyond a
specific period of time (which can be selected using
setup menu No. 400 to 403), it is automatically set to
the standby OFF mode or STEP FWD mode in order
to protect the tape. The VTR is set to the stop mode
immediately after the cassette has been inserted.

6

menu No.102 (FF. REW MAX).

; EDIT button

SD955A

This button is pressed together with the PLAY button
during playback to initiate manual editing.
When it is pressed during playback, a search, fast
forwarding or rewinding, the input signals in the mode
selected by the ASSEM button or INSERT button can
be monitored in the E-E mode while the button is held
down.
When the button is pressed in the stop mode, the
input signals in the mode selected by the ASSEM
button or INSERT button can be monitored in the E-E
mode.
When the STOP button is pressed, the original
pictures and sound are restored.

< STAND BY button

SD955A

In the standby ON mode, this button’s lamp lights to
indicate that the same tape tension is applied as in the
regular stop mode and that the head drum is rotating.
In the standby OFF mode, the half loading mode is
established by this button.
When the button is pressed in the stop mode, the
standby OFF mode is established. At this time, its
lamp goes off.
When the VTR is left in the stop mode beyond a
specific period of time, it is automatically set to the
standby OFF mode in order to protect the tape.
When this button or the STOP button is pressed in the
standby OFF mode, the VTR is set to the standby ON
mode.
When a button other than the STOP button is pressed,
the VTR is set to the mode that corresponds to the
button pressed. The time taken by the VTR to transfer
to the standby OFF mode can be selected using setup
menu No. 400 (STILL TIMER).

Parts and their functions

ON

OFF

POWER

DV

DVCPRO

DVCPRO 50

METER

L

R

FULL/FINE

MONITOR SELECT

HEADPHONES

MONITOR MIX

INPUT SELECT

PREVIEW/PREVIEW

AUTO EDIT

PREROLL

VIDEO

REC LEVEL

CH1

PB LEVEL

AUDIO

CH2 CH3 CH4

TC

PRESET

MENU SET DIAG

SUPER REC INH

INT TCG

MODE

CONTROL

ON

OFF

UNITY

VAR

COUNTER

RESET

A IN

TRIM

SET

OUTIN

A OUT

CH1 CH4CH2

INSERT

CH3

ASSEM

VIDEO CUE TC

STAND BY

EDIT

REW STOP

PLAY REC

PLAYER

RECORDER

FF

JOG SHTL SLOW

TAPE

EE

ON

REGEN
PRESET

EXIT

OFF

REMOTE

LOCAL

CD > ?

@A

= B

Front panel

TC PRESET button

= PLAYER and RECORDER buttons

These buttons are operated if the VTR is to be used
as a recorder to conduct editing operations with a
VTR equipped with an RS-422A serial interface
remote control connector (9 pins). Neither button
works when the VTR is used on its own.

PLAYER:

When this button is pressed, its lamp lights to
indicate that the player connected to the VTR
can be operated by remote control. The VTR’s
editing and tape transport system buttons can
now be used to control the player.

RECORDER:

When this button is pressed, its lamp lights to
indicate that the editing and tape transport
system buttons can now be used to operate the

recorder (this VTR).
When the PLAYER button or RECORDER button is
pressed while ENA has been selected as the setup
menu No. 200 (PARA RUN) setting, the lamps of
both buttons light to indicate that the VTR now
serves as the master unit for parallel run
operations.
(However, when this setting is used, it is no longer
possible to perform external control from the 9-pin
REMOTE connector.)

> Search button

When this button is pressed, the search mode is
established.
When it is pressed after the search dial has been
set to the shuttle mode and turned to the desired
position, playback starts at the speed which was set
by the search dial.

SD955A

@ Search dial

This dial is used to locate the edit points.
Each time it is pressed, it is set alternatively to the
SHTL/SLOW mode or the JOG mode, and the JOG,
SHTL or SLOW lamp lights.
When the power is turned on, the search dial will not
operate unless it is first returned to the STILL position.

SHTL (shuttle) mode:

When the dial is turned and set to the desired
position while the SHTL lamp among the JOG,
SHTL and SLOW lamps is lighted, the tape can be
played at the speed corresponding to the angle at
which the dial has been turned. A still picture
appears when the dial is set to the center position.

SLOW mode:

When the dial is turned all the way in the
counterclockwise direction while the SLOW lamp
among the JOG, SHTL and SLOW lamps is lighted,
the tape speed is set to –4.1a. Similarly, when it is
set to the center position, it is set to still picture, and
when it is turned all the way in the clockwise
direction, it is set to +4.1a. The SLOW speed in
each direction can be selected using setup menu
No. 320 (VAR FWD MAX) and No. 321 (VAR REV
MAX).

JOG mode:

In this mode, the click-stop positions of the dial are
released, and the tape is played at a speed ranging
from –1a to +1a in accordance with the speed at
which the dial is turned.
The maximum speed can be set using setup menu
No. 323 (JOG FWD MAX) and No. 324 (JOG REV
MAX).

A Dial ring

The dial ring lights during search mode.
The conditions under which the ring is to light can be
selected using setup menu No. 117 (DIAL LAMP).

B JOG, SHTL and SLOW lamps

These lamps indicate the search dial mode.

JOG : This lights in the JOG mode.
SHTL : This lights in the SHTL mode.
SLOW : This lights in the SLOW mode.

C COUNTER button

Each time this button is pressed, the counter display
on the display panel changes to the next setting in the
following sequence: CTL 5 TC 5 UB.

? SHTL/SLOW button

This button is used to select whether the search
dial is to be used for SHTL or SLOW applications.
Each time it is pressed, the search dial is set
alternately to SHTL or SLOW.

D RESET button

When this button is pressed in the CTL mode, the
counter display is reset to [00:00:00:00]. At the same
time, any edit points that have been registered will
also be cleared.
When this button is pressed while the TC PRESET
button is held down in the TC or UB mode, the time
code generator is reset.

7

Parts and their functions

ON

OFF

POWER

DV

DVCPRO

DVCPRO 50

METER

L

R

FULL/FINE

MONITOR SELECT

HEADPHONES

MONITOR MIX

INPUT SELECT

PREVIEW/PREVIEW

AUTO EDIT

PREROLL

VIDEO

REC LEVEL

CH1

PB LEVEL

AUDIO

CH2 CH3 CH4

TC

PRESET

MENU SET DIAG

SUPER REC INH

INT TCG

MODE

CONTROL

ON

OFF

UNITY

VAR

COUNTER

RESET

A IN

TRIM

SET

OUTIN

A OUT

CH1 CH4CH2

INSERT

CH3

ASSEM

VIDEO CUE TC

STAND BY

EDIT

REW STOP

PLAY REC

PLAYER

RECORDER

FF

JOG SHTL SLOW

TAPE

EE

ON

REGEN
PRESET

EXIT

OFF

REMOTE

LOCAL

EIKJ FH

G

L

Front panel

I PREROLL button

SD955A

This button is used to locate where a transmission
or manual editing starts on the tape.
When it is pressed, the tape travels to the preroll
point and stops.
The preroll time can be set using setup menu No.
000 (P-ROLL TIME).
When the button is pressed while the IN (A IN) or
OUT (A OUT) button is held down, the tape is cued
up to the registered point concerned.
If this button is pressed when no IN point has been

E ASSEM button

SD955A

This button is pressed to proceed with assemble
editing.
It has a self-illuminating lamp which comes ON

entered, the point where the button was pressed
will automatically be entered as the IN point.
(However, this is only the case if ENA has been
selected as the setup menu No. 313 (AUTO
ENTRY) setting.

when the button is pressed and goes OFF when it
is pressed again.

F INSERT buttons

SD955A

The input signals to be edited when insert editing is
to be conducted are selected by pressing one of
these seven buttons.
Each of these buttons has a self-illuminating lamp
which comes ON when the button is pressed and
goes OFF when it is pressed again.

G

IN (A IN), SET and OUT (A OUT) buttons

SD955A

When the SET button is pressed while the IN (A IN)
or OUT (A OUT) button is held down, the IN (A IN)
or OUT (A OUT) point is registered.
The A IN and A OUT buttons are used during audio

J PREVIEW/REVIEW button

PREVIEW:

When the button is pressed after an edit point
has been registered, the tape travels and the
editing can be previewed without actually
performing the editing.
If the button is pressed when no IN point has
been registered, the point where it was pressed
is registered as the IN point, and preview is
executed using this IN point.

REVIEW:

When the button is pressed after a section has
been edited, the section that was just edited is
played back and can be viewed on the recorder’s
monitor.

SD955A

split editing to register audio IN and OUT points that
differ from the corresponding video points.
When an IN (A IN) or OUT (A OUT) point has been
registered, the lamp of the IN (A IN) or OUT (A
OUT) button which has registered that point lights.
When these buttons are pressed after points have
been registered, the IN (A IN) or OUT (A OUT)
point value appears on the counter display. When

K AUTO EDIT button

When this button is pressed after the edit points
have been registered, automatic editing is initiated.
If this button is pressed when no IN point has been
entered, automatic editing is initiated with the point
where the button was pressed serving as the IN
point.

SD955A

the IN (A IN) or OUT (A OUT) button is pressed
together with the RESET button, the registration of
the IN (A IN) or OUT (A OUT) point is cleared.

H TRIM buttons

SD955A

These buttons are used to make fine adjustments
to the IN (A IN) or OUT (A OUT) point.
By pressing the + or – button while the IN (A IN)
button or OUT (A OUT) button is held down, the
registered edit point can be adjusted in 1-frame
increments. When the + button is pressed, the point
is moved ahead by one frame; conversely, when
the – button is pressed, it is moved back by one
frame.

L METER (FULL/FINE) selector button

This button is used to select the scale display for
the audio level meter.

FULL mode:

The standard scale (–∞to 0 dB) is selected.

FINE mode:

The scale in 0.5 dB increments is selected.
The 5position indicates the standard audio
level of –20 dB, and each of the dots (O)
displayed indicates a 1 dB scale increment.
(See page 12)

8

ON

OFF

POWER

DV

DVCPRO

DVCPRO 50

METER

L

R

FULL/FINE

MONITOR SELECT

HEADPHONES

MONITOR MIX

INPUT SELECT

PREVIEW/PREVIEW

AUTO EDIT

PREROLL

VIDEO

REC LEVEL

CH1

PB LEVEL

AUDIO

CH2 CH3 CH4

TC

PRESET

MENU SET DIAG

SUPER REC INH

INT TCG

MODE

CONTROL

ON

OFF

UNITY

VAR

COUNTER

RESET

A IN

TRIM

SET

OUTIN

A OUT

CH1 CH4CH2

INSERT

CH3

ASSEM

VIDEO CUE TC

STAND BY

EDIT

REW STOP

PLAY REC

PLAYER

RECORDER

FF

JOG SHTL SLOW

TAPE

EE

ON

REGEN
PRESET

EXIT

OFF

REMOTE

LOCAL

O N P RSTU

M

Q

Parts and their functions

Front panel

P Audio level control lamps (REC LEVEL, PB

LEVEL)

When the audio level control knobs Q have been
set to adjust the recording level, the REC LEVEL
lamp lights.
When they have been set to adjust the playback
level, the PB LEVEL lamp lights.

Q Audio level control knobs

These knobs are used to adjust the recording and
playback level of the PCM audio signals (CH1,
CH2, CH3 and CH4).

M MONITOR SELECT (L andR) buttons

These buttons are used to select the audio signals
which are to be output to the MONITOR L and R
connectors.
Each time the L button is pressed, the signal to be
output to the MONITOR L connector is changed in
the following sequence: CH1 5 CH2 5 CH3 5
CH4 5 CUE.
Similarly, each time the R button is pressed, the
signal to be output to the MONITOR R connector is
changed in the following sequence: CH1 5 CH2 5
CH3 5 CH4 5 CUE.
Which signal has now been selected is displayed
by the lighting of the L or R lamps on the level
meter display.
When AUTO has been selected as the setup menu
No. 721 (MONI CH SEL) setting, the display is
switched in tandem with the monitor output. The
channel to which monitor output is to be switched
automatically can be selected using setup menu
No. 735 (MON AUTO SEL).

N MONITOR MIX button

This button is used to select the mixed signals
which are to be output to the MONITOR L and R
connectors.
Each time the MONITOR SELECT L button is
pressed while this button is held down, the signals
to be output to the MONITOR L connector change
in the following sequence: CH1 + CH2 5 CH3 +
CH4 5 CH1 + CH3 5 CH2 + CH4 5 mixing
release.
The mixed signals to be output to the MONITOR R
connector are changed in the same way by the
MONITOR SELECT R button.

O Headphone jack and headphone volume control

When stereo headphones are connected to the
headphone jack, the sound during recording,
playback or editing can be monitored using the
headphones.

Whether the recording level or the playback level is
to be adjusted is selected using setup menu No.
738 (AUDIO VR SEL).

R Audio level control selector switch

UNITY:

At this position, the audio signals are recorded or
played back at a fixed level regardless of the
positions of the audio level control knobs Q.

VAR:

At this position, the audio signals are recorded or
played back at the level adjusted by the audio
level control knobs Q.

S TC PRESET button

This button is used to set the TC or UB value.
When the TC or UB value is to be set, this button is
pressed first to stop the data from advancing. The
set of digits whose display is flashing is then
changed.

T MENU button

When this button is pressed, the setup menus are
displayed on the TV monitor (but only when the
VIDEO OUT 3 connector or SDI OUT 3 connector
is used), and the setup menu numbers appear on
the VTR’s display panel.
When it is pressed again, the setup menu settings
are exited, and the original status is restored.

U SET button

When this button is pressed, the data which has
been set using the setup menus is entered.
After the data has been entered, the setup menu
settings are exited, and the original status is
restored.
When the internal time code has been set, the data
which has been set is entered.

9

ON

OFF

POWER

DV

DVCPRO

DVCPRO 50

METER

L

R

FULL/FINE

MONITOR SELECT

HEADPHONES

MONITOR MIX

INPUT SELECT

PREVIEW/PREVIEW

AUTO EDIT

PREROLL

VIDEO

REC LEVEL

CH1

PB LEVEL

AUDIO

CH2 CH3 CH4

TC

PRESET

MENU SET DIAG

SUPER REC INH

INT TCG

MODE

CONTROL

ON

OFF

UNITY

VAR

COUNTER

RESET

A IN

TRIM

SET

OUTIN

A OUT

CH1 CH4CH2

INSERT

CH3

ASSEM

VIDEO CUE TC

STAND BY

EDIT

REW STOP

PLAY REC

PLAYER

RECORDER

FF

JOG SHTL SLOW

TAPE

EE

ON

REGEN
PRESET

EXIT

OFF

REMOTE

LOCAL

W Y [

V X Z

Parts and their functions

Front panel

Y TCG switch

REGEN:

The internal time code generator is synchronized
with the time code which the time code reader
has read from the tape.
The signal that is to be used for regeneration is
selected using setup menu No. 503 (TCG
REGEN).

PRESET:

The time code generator can be preset on the
operation panel or by remote control.

EXT:

V DIAG button

When this button is pressed, the VTR information is
displayed.
When it is pressed again, the original display is
restored.
The VTR information consists of the HOURS
METER information and WARNING information.
Switching between the display of each type of
information is accomplished by pressing the search
button.
Displayed on the HOURS METER screen are the
deck’s serial number, power-on time, drum rotation
time, tape travel time, number of times a cassette
has been loaded, number of times the power has
been turned on and off, and so on.
Displayed on the WARNING screen are details of
the warnings.

W SUPER switch

ON:

The superimposed time code and other
information is output to the VIDEO OUT 3
connector or SDI OUT 3 connector.

OFF:

The superimposed information is not output.

X REC INH switch

This switch is used to enable or disable recording
on the cassette tape.

ON:

Recording on the cassette tape is disabled
(inhibited).
In this state, the REC INH lamp lights on the
display panel.

OFF:

Recording on the cassette tape is enabled so
long as the accidental erasure prevention
mechanism on the cassette tape is set to enable
recording.

The external time code which is input from the
time code input connector or video signal VITC is
used. Which of the two is to be set is selected
using setup menu No. 505 (EXT TC SEL).

Z MODE switch

<In the stop mode>
TAPE:

The signal which is played back from the tape is
output.

EE:

The input signal selected by the INPUT SELECT
button is output.

<During recording or editing>
TAPE:

The simultaneous playback signals are output.
(The setup menu No.310 (CONFI EDIT) setting
is necessary.)

EE:

The input signal selected by the INPUT SELECT
button is output.

[ CONTROL switch

This switch is set to the REMOTE or LOCAL
position when the VTR is to be controlled by an
external unit using the REMOTE, RS-232C or
PARALLEL connector.

REMOTE:

Set the switch to this position to control the VTR
using a component that has been connected
using the 9-pin REMOTE, RS-232C or
PARALLEL connector.

LOCAL:

Set the switch to this position to control the VTR
using its operation panel.
When the unit is to be controlled with the switch
at this position by a component connected using
the PARALLEL connector, selection can be
made using setup menu No. 211 (LOCAL 25P).

10

Parts and their functions

2 5 6431 7

CTL

ANALOG

AUDIO

AES/EBU

USER SET

SDI

SDTI/1394

SG

INH

SCH

DVCPRO

50

DVCAM

SERVO

EDIT REC

TC
UB

=

Y PB PR

VIDEO

CMPST

SDI

SDTI/1394

SG 1 2

REMOTE

625525

dB

0

-

4

-

8

-

12

-

16

-

20

-

25

-

30

-

L R

dB

0

-

4

-

8

-

12

-

16

-

20

-

25

-

30

-

L R

dB

0

-

4

-

8

-

12

-

16

-

20

-

25

-

30

-

L R

dB

0

-

4

-

8

-

12

-

16

-

20

-

25

-

30

-

L R

dB

CUE

-

8

-

12

-

16

-

20

-

25

-

30

-

L R

Display panel

1 TV system displays

The selected TV system is displayed here.
With the AJ-SD955A, it is possible to switch
between the 525 interlace and 625 interlace
systems by setting setup menu item No. 070 (TV
SYSTEM).
With the AJ-SD930, only the 525 interlace TV
system can be used.

525

: This lights when the 525 interlaced TV system

has been selected.

625

: This lights when the 625 interlaced TV system

is selected.

2 REMOTE lamp

This lamp lights when the CONTROL switch has
been set to the REMOTE position.

3 INPUT SELECT display area

The characters corresponding to the selected input
signals light. With all input signals except for analog
audio signals, the fact that no signals have been
selected is indicated by a flashing display.

VIDEO

Y PB PR :

Analog component video signals
(option)

CMPST :

Analog composite video signals
(option)

SDI :
SDTI/1394 :
SG/SG 1/SG 2:

AUDIO

ANALOG :
AES/EBU :
USER SET :
SDI :
SDTI/1394 :
SG :

Serial digital video signals
Compressed digital signals (option)
Internal reference signals

Analog audio signals
Digital audio signals
Recording audio signal selection
Serial digital audio signals
Compressed digital signals (option)
Internal reference signals

SD955A

4=lamp

This lamp lights when a cassette tape is inserted
into the VTR.

5 SCH lamp

This lamp lights when the SCH phase of the
external synchronized signal (REF VIDEO) is inside
the prescribed range.
At all other times, the lamp is off.

6 SERVO lamp

This lamp lights when the drum servo or capstan
servo locks.

7 Channel condition lamps

These lamps light to indicate the error rate status.
(green 5 white 5 red)

Green:

This lights when the error rates for the video
and audio playback signals are both at
acceptable levels.

White :

This lights when the error rate for the video
or audio playback level has increased.
The playback picture and sound remain
unaffected even while this lamp is lighted.

Red :

This lights when the error rate for the video
or audio playback level has increased to the
extent that correction or interpolation was
performed.

11

Parts and their functions

CTL

ANALOG

AUDIO

AES/EBU

USER SET

SDI

SDTI/1394

SG

INH

SCH

DVCPRO

50

DVCAM

SERVO

EDIT REC

TC

UB

=

Y PB PR

VIDEO

CMPST

SDI

SDTI/1394

SG 1 2

REMOTE

625525

dB

0

-

4

-

8

-

12

-

16

-

20

-

25

-

30

-

L R

dB

0

-

4

-

8

-

12

-

16

-

20

-

25

-

30

-

L R

dB

0

-

4

-

8

-

12

-

16

-

20

-

25

-

30

-

L R

dB

0

-

4

-

8

-

12

-

16

-

20

-

25

-

30

-

L R

dB

CUE

-

8

-

12

-

16

-

20

-

25

-

30

-

L R

9

8

:

;<

L R

dB

0

-

4

-

8

-

12

-

16

-

20

-

25

-

30

-

L R

Display panel

8 EDIT, EDIT REC, REC and REC INH lamps

EDIT:

This lights when an editing mode has been
selected.

EDIT REC:

This lights when the edit recording mode has
been established.

REC:

This lights when the recording mode has been
established.

REC INH:

This lights in the recording inhibit status (when
the REC INH switch at the bottom front panel is
set to ON or the cassette is in the accidental
erasure prevention status).
In this status, recording and editing are not
possible.
Whether the REC INH lamp is to light or flash
when recording has been inhibited by the
accidental erasure prevention tab on the
cassette tape can be selected using setup menu
No. 114 (REC INH LAMP).

9 Tape transport displays

The tape transport status is displayed here.

: Normal playback or recording
: Playback at a speed slower than 1a
: Playback at a speed faster than 1a
: Fast forwarding (FF)
: Playback in the reverse direction at 1a
: Playback in the reverse direction at a speed

slower than 1a

: Playback in the reverse direction at a speed

faster than 1a

: Format displays

The recording format and the format of the tape
inserted in the unit are displayed here.

: Rewinding (REW)
: Pause/still

12

; Counter display

The tape counter, time code, etc. are displayed
here.
The type of value displayed is indicated by CTL, TC
or UB.

< Level meters

These meters indicate the levels of the CH1, CH2,
CH3, CH4 and CUE tracks of the PCM audio
signals.
During recording or while E-E is selected, the levels
of the audio input signals appear; during playback,
the levels of the audio output signals appear.
Using the METER selector button L, the audio
level display is switched from the FULL mode to the
FINE mode or vice versa. (See page 8)

FULL mode FINE mode

Reference level

(–20 dB)

Each of the dots (O) indicates
a 1 dB scale increment.

Parts and their functions

PUSH PUSH

PUSH PUSH

PUSH

AC IN

SIGNAL

GND

AES/EBU

SDI

SDTI

ANALOG

CH1/2

IN

Y

VIDEO

VIDEO

OUT

SERVICE ONLY

REMOTE IN/OUT

CH1 CH2AUDIO

IN

ENCODER REMOTE

RS-232C

PARALLEL

REMOTE OUT

IN

REF VIDEO
IN

ON

OFF

P

B

P

R

Y1

2

(WFM)

3

(SUPER)

P

B

P

R

OPTION

CH3/4

IN

CH1/2
OUT

CH3/4
OUT

REMOTE

75Ω

ON

OFF

75Ω

ANALOG

TC

IN

IN

ACTIVE

THROUGH

OUT

1

TC
OUT

MON

L

MON

R

CH4

CH3

CH1 CH2AUDIO

OUT

CH4

CH3

2

OPTION

IN OUT

1

2

3

(SUPER)

1 92 8 ;64 5 7 :3

Rear panel

1 AC IN socket

Connect one end of the power cord supplied to this
socket and the other end to the power outlet.

2 DIGITAL AUDIO IN and OUT connectors

These are the input and output connectors for
digital audio signals that comply with the AES/EBU
standards.

<Note>

The digital audio signals which are to be input to
these connectors must be synchronized with the
video input signals. Otherwise, noise will be
generated in the audio output signals.

6 Remote control connectors

These connectors make it possible to use two of
these VTRs or to connect this VTR to an external
controller so that the VTR can be operated from an
external component.
Two remote control connectors are provided: one
for IN/OUT use and the other for OUT use only.

IN/OUT:

For connection with an external controller
For connection with deck-to-deck operations

OUT:

For connection with parallel run operations
For loop-through use

<Note>

If connection is to be made to the OUT connector
for deck-to-deck operations where this VTR will
serve as the recorder, which of the two connectors
is to be used can be selected using setup menu No.
212 (MASTER PORT).

7 ENCODER REMOTE connector

An external encoder remote controller is connected
to this connector when the video output signal
settings are to be adjusted from an external
component.

3 ANALOG COMPONENT VIDEO IN connectors

4 ANALOG COMPOSITE VIDEO IN connectors

5 REF VIDEO IN connectors and 75 Ω termination

(optional)

The analog component video signals are input to
these connectors.

and 75 Ω termination switch (optional)

The analog composite video signals are input to
these connectors. A loop-through configuration is
featured for each pair of input connectors.
For termination at this VTR, set the termination
switch to ON.

switch

These are the input connectors of the reference
video signals.
Input a reference signal with color burst.
For termination at this VTR, set the termination
switch to ON.

<Note>

Video and audio output may be disturbed when the
reference video signal is not input, so it is
recommended that a system which inputs the
reference video signal be used.

8 ANALOG AUDIO IN connectors

These are the analog audio input connectors.

9 TIME CODE IN connector

This connector is used to record an external time
code onto the tape.

: TIME CODE OUT connector

During playback, the playback time code is output
through this connector.
During recording, the time code generated by the
internal time code generator is output.

; SERIAL DIGITAL COMPONENT AUDIO and

VIDEO IN and OUT connectors

These are the input and output connectors for the
digital component audio and video signals that
comply with the SMPTE259M-C standard.
Video signals containing superimposed information
can be output through the SDI OUT 3 connector.
Whether the superimposing is to be set ON or OFF
is selected using the SUPER switch W on the front
panel.

<Note>

The digital audio signals which are to be input to
these connectors must be synchronized with the
video input signals. Otherwise, noise will be
generated in the audio output signals.

13

Parts and their functions

PUSH PUSH

PUSH PUSH

PUSH

AC IN

SIGNAL

GND

AES/EBU

SDI

SDTI

ANALOG

CH1/2

IN

Y

VIDEO

VIDEO

OUT

SERVICE ONLY

REMOTE IN/OUT

CH1 CH2AUDIO

IN

ENCODER REMOTE

RS-232C

PARALLEL

REMOTE OUT

IN

REF VIDEO
IN

ON

OFF

P

B

P

R

Y1

2

(WFM)

3

(SUPER)

P

B

P

R

OPTION

CH3/4

IN

CH1/2
OUT

CH3/4
OUT

REMOTE

75Ω

ON

OFF

75Ω

ANALOG

TC

IN

IN

ACTIVE

THROUGH

OUT

1

TC
OUT

MON

L

MON

R

CH4

CH3

CH1 CH2AUDIO

OUT

CH4

CH3

2

OPTION

IN OUT

1

2

3

(SUPER)

< @ A= > ? B DC

Rear panel

< Fan

This fan is used to cool down the VTR.
If, for any reason, the fan stops, “E-10” will appear
on the counter display.

= SIGNAL GND terminal

This is connected to the signal ground terminal on
the component connected to this VTR in order to
minimize noise. It is not a safety ground.

A PARALLEL REMOTE connector

This connector is used when the VTR is to be
operated by an external component.

B ANALOG AUDIO OUT connectors

The analog audio signals are output through these
connectors.

C MONITOR OUT connectors

During playback, the PCM audio signals
(CH1/CH2/CH3/CH4) or playback signals from the
CUE track are output through these connectors.

D SDTI input and output connectors (optional)

When the SDTI board (AJ-YAC930G, optional
accessory) is installed in this VTR, digital data can
be input and output using the SDTI (Serial Data
Transport Interface) format.

> ANALOG COMPONENT VIDEO OUT connectors

The analog component video signals are output
through these connectors.

? ANALOG COMPOSITE VIDEO OUT connectors

The analog composite video signals are output
through these connectors.
The waveform monitor (WFM) signal can be output
from the VIDEO OUT 2 connector.
It can be selected using setup menu No. 00 (WFM
SEL).
Video signals containing superimposed information
can be output through the VIDEO OUT 3 connector.
Whether the superimposing is to be set ON or OFF
is selected using the SUPER switch W on the front
panel.

@ RS-232C connector

A personal computer or other component can be
connected to this connector to operate the VTR.

14

Connections

Source machine:

Set the CONTROL switch on the front panel to REMOTE.

Recorder:

Set the CONTROL switch on the front panel to LOCAL.

Reference signal

generator

Remote control signal (9 pin)

Digital video/audio signal

Source machine Recorder

AES/EBU

CH1/2

AC IN

SIGNAL

GND

IN

CH3/4

IN

CH1/2

OUT

CH3/4

OUT

OFF

ANALOG

VIDEO
IN

ON

Y

75Ω

OFF

P

B

REF VIDEO
IN

ON

P

75Ω

R

OPTION

OFF

Y1

VIDEO

OUT

2

P

B

(WFM)

3

P

(SUPER)

R

SERVICE ONLY

To video
monitor device

REMOTE

REMOTE IN/OUT

REMOTE OUT

ENCODER REMOTE

RS-232C

PARALLEL

ANALOG

PUSH PUSH

CH1 CH2AUDIO

IN

PUSH PUSH

CH3

CH4

CH1 CH2AUDIO

OUT

CH3

CH4

To audio
monitor device

SDI

OUT

IN

TC

PUSH

IN

1

ACTIVE

TC

THROUGH

OUT

2

3

(SUPER)

MON

L

OPTION

SDTI

IN OUT

MON

1

R

2

AC IN

SIGNAL

GND

Digital audio

Analog video signal (component)
OWhen the analog video input board (option) has

been installed.

CH1/2

IN

CH3/4

IN

CH1/2
OUT

CH3/4
OUT

AES/EBU

Y1

P
B

P
R

ON

ANALOG

VIDEO
IN

ON

Y

75Ω

OFF

P

B

REF VIDEO
IN

ON

P

75Ω

R

OPTION

OFF

VIDEO

OUT

2

(WFM)

3

(SUPER)

SERVICE ONLY

To video
monitor device

REMOTE

REMOTE IN/OUT

REMOTE OUT

ENCODER REMOTE

RS-232C

PARALLEL

ANALOG

PUSH PUSH

CH1 CH2AUDIO

IN

PUSH PUSH

CH3

CH1 CH2AUDIO

OUT

CH3

To audio
monitor device

SDI

OUT

IN

TC

PUSH

IN

1

ACTIVE

TC

THROUGH

CH4

OUT

2

3

(SUPER)

MON

L

OPTION

SDTI

IN OUT

MON

CH4

1

R

2

<Note>

Video and audio output may be disturbed when the reference
video signal is not input, so it is recommended that a system
which inputs the reference video signal be used.

15

Connections

Connections with editing controller

Recorder

AV monitor

Video monitor
signals

Audio monitor
signals

Editing controller

ON

OFF

METER

FULL/FINE

MONITOR SELECT

HEADPHONES

L

R

POWER

MONITOR MIX

REC LEVEL

PB LEVEL

Remote

DVCPRO 50

DVCPRO

DV

COUNTER

ASSEM

VIDEO CUE TC

RESET

CH1 CH4CH2

CH3

INSERT

A IN

A OUT

TRIM

INPUT SELECT

VIDEO

CH1

PREVIEW/PREVIEW

AUDIO

CH2 CH3 CH4

AUTO EDIT

SET

PREROLL

OUTIN

SUPER REC INH

TC

PRESET

MENU SET DIAG

UNITY

VAR

ON

OFF

OFF

To REMOTE IN/OUT
connector

STAND BY

EDIT

REW STOP

INT TCG

REGEN
PRESET

EXIT

JOG SHTL SLOW

PLAYER

RECORDER

PLAY REC

FF

MODE

CONTROL

TAPEEEON

REMOTE

LOCAL

Video input signals

AV switcher

Audio input signals

Video monitor

signals

Audio monitor

AV monitor

signals

Reference signal

generator

ON

POWER

OFF

METER

FULL/FINE

L

MONITOR SELECT

HEADPHONES

R

MONITOR MIX

PREVIEW/PREVIEW

INPUT SELECT

VIDEO

AUDIO

CH1

CH2 CH3 CH4

REC LEVEL

PB LEVEL

Source machine

DVCPRO 50

DVCPRO

DV

COUNTER

ASSEM

VIDEO CUE TC

RESET

CH1 CH4CH2

CH3

INSERT

A IN

A OUT

TRIM

PREROLL

TC

PRESET

UNITY

VAR

signals

MENU SET DIAG

SET

OUTIN

SUPER REC INH
ON

OFF

AUTO EDIT

Video monitor

AV monitor

To REMOTE IN/OUT
connector

JOG SHTL SLOW

PLAYER

STAND BY

RECORDER

EDIT

PLAY REC

REW STOP

FF

INT TCG

MODE

CONTROL

REGEN

TAPEEEON

REMOTE

PRESET

OFF

LOCAL

EXIT

Audio monitor

signals

Remote

Video output signals

Audio output

signals

Remote

To REMOTE

Reference signal

IN/OUT

connector

<Notes>

OWhen an editing controller made by CMX is used, support must

be provided at the editing controller side.

OIf the remote signal (9 pin) connection is to be disconnected

from one component and connected to another instead,
recheck the editing controller settings, etc.

OVideo and audio output may be disturbed when the reference

video signal is not input, so it is recommended that a system
which inputs the reference video signal be used.

Audio output signals

Video output signals

ON

POWER

OFF

METER

FULL/FINE

L

MONITOR SELECT

HEADPHONES

R

MONITOR MIX

PREVIEW/PREVIEW

INPUT SELECT

VIDEO

AUDIO

CH1

CH2 CH3 CH4

REC LEVEL

PB LEVEL

Source machine

Reference signal

DVCPRO 50

DVCPRO

DV

COUNTER

ASSEM

VIDEO CUE TC

RESET

CH1 CH4CH2

CH3

INSERT

A IN

TRIM

PREROLL

TC

PRESET

UNITY

VAR

signals

MENU SET DIAG

SET

OUTIN

OFF

AUTO EDIT

Video monitor

AV monitor

PLAYER

STAND BY

RECORDER

EDIT

PLAY REC

A OUT

REW STOP

FF

SUPER REC INH

INT TCG

MODE

CONTROL

REGEN

ON

TAPEEEON

REMOTE

PRESET

OFF

LOCAL

EXIT

Audio monitor

signals

JOG SHTL SLOW

16

ON

OFF

POWER

DV

DVCPRO

DVCPRO 50

METER

L

R

FULL/FINE

MONITOR SELECT

HEADPHONES

MONITOR MIX

INPUT SELECT

PREVIEW/PREVIEW

AUTO EDIT

PREROLL

VIDEO

REC LEVEL

CH1

PB LEVEL

AUDIO

CH2 CH3 CH4

TC

PRESET

MENU SET DIAG

SUPER REC INH

INT TCG

MODE

CONTROL

ON

OFF

UNITY

VAR

COUNTER

RESET

A IN

TRIM

SET

OUTIN

A OUT

CH1 CH4CH2

INSERT

CH3

ASSEM

VIDEO CUE TC

STAND BY

EDIT

REW STOP

PLAY REC

PLAYER

RECORDER

FF

JOG SHTL SLOW

TAPE

EE

ON

REGEN
PRESET

EXIT

OFF

REMOTE

LOCAL

Tapes

Consumer-use DV and DVCAM cassettes

(Standard DV and DVCAM cassettes, mini DV and
DVCAM cassettes)

O Use a cassette adapter (AJ-CS455P) when a mini

DV or DVCAM cassette is to be used.
Note that inserting a mini DV or DVCAM cassette
without the use of a cassette adapter will cause
malfunctioning.
Also note that long-duration mini DV cassettes (80
minutes in the standard mode and 120 minutes in
the LP mode) cannot be used.

O It is not possible to play back tapes which have

been recorded in the LP mode.

O When editing material recorded on a consumer-use

DV or DVCAM cassette, first record the material on
a DVCPRO tape or other tape used by VTRs for
broadcast applications.

O The maximum transport speed of a mini DV or

DVCAM cassette tape is 32a.

O The images may be subject to disturbance during

the slow motion playback of consumer-use DV and
DVCAM cassette tapes.

O From the perspective of protecting consumer-use

DV and DVCAM cassette tapes, minimize the
number of times the tapes are cued up at the same
locations as much as possible.

O When consumer-use DV and DVCAM cassette

tapes are used, the maximum time for STILL
TIMER is set to 10 seconds.

M cassette size

L cassette size

Align the center of the cassette with the center of the
insertion slot, and press it in gently.
The cassette tape will load automatically.

It is recommended that tapes bearing the
Panasonic brand be used as the consumer-use DV
tapes.

M cassettes

Tapes capable of up to 33 minutes of recording or
playback
(AJ-5P23MP, AJ-5P33MP)

L cassettes

Tapes capable of up to 92 minutes of recording or
playback
(AJ-5P63LP, AJ-5P92LP)
O Use AJ-5P92LP tapes which have been recorded

using the DVCPRO (25M) format in a VTR that
supports 184 minutes of DVCPRO (25M) format
recording and playback.

17

Jog/Shuttle

Jog mode

Press the search dial so that it remains pressed in.

1

Check that the JOG lamp has lighted.

Turn the search dial.

2

The dial’s click-stops are released, and the tape is
played back at the speed (–1a to +1a )
corresponding to the speed at which the dial is
turned.
The maximum speed can be switched using setup
menu No. 323 (JOG FWD MAX) and No. 324 (JOG
REV MAX) settings.
However, noise will occur at all speeds other than
–0.43a to +0.43a.
When the dial is no longer turned, the still picture
mode is established.

To transfer the VTR from the jog mode to another

3

mode, press the button that corresponds to the
mode concerned.

<Note>

The direct search mode in which the VTR is
transferred to the shuttle mode or jog mode by turning
the search dial is set at the factory.
By selecting KEY as the setup menu No. 100
(SEARCH ENA) setting, the VTR can be set to the
mode in which it will not be transferred to the search
mode unless the search button is pressed.

Shuttle mode

Press the search dial so that it is released from the

1

pressed-in position.
The SHTL lamp lights, and the shuttle mode is
established.
O Immediately after the power is turned on, turn

the search dial and leave it at the center
position.

Press the SHTL/SLOW button and switch to SHTL

2

or SLOW.

Turn the search dial.

3

O When the SHTL lamp among the JOG, SHTL

and SLOW lamps is lighted, the playback picture
speed changes from 0 up to ±32a depending on
the dial position.
This speed can be switched to ±8.4a, ±16a or
±32a using setup menu No. 101 (SHTL MAX).
The dial has a click-stop at the center position
where the still picture mode is established.

O When the SLOW lamp among the JOG, SHTL

and SLOW lamps is lighted, the playback picture
speed changes from –4.1 up to +4.1a
depending on the dial position.
The maximum speed can be switched using
setup menu No. 320 (VAR FWD MAX) and No.
321 (VAR REV MAX) settings. However, noise
will occur at all speeds other than –0.43a to
+0.43a, +0.5a and +0.75a.
The dial has a click-stop at the center position
where the still picture mode is established.

18

To transfer the VTR from the shuttle mode to

4

another mode, press the STOP button or other
button.

<Notes>

O It is possible to listen to playback audio in the –10

to +10 speed range from the audio monitor output.
(PCM must be selected for the setup menu No. 721
(MONI CH SELECT) setting.)

O The audio playback sound heard in the search

mode contains noise.

Manual editing

SD955A

Select the editing mode.

1

ASSEMBLE:

Assemble (frame-to-frame continuity) editing is
performed in this mode.

INSERT:

Insert editing is performed in this mode.

Select the channels to be edited.

2

For insert editing, press the buttons corresponding
to the channels to be edited so that their lamps
light.

Press the PLAY button.

3

Preroll

Press the PREROLL button.

1

The VTR now performs the preroll operation.
O If the edit IN point has been registered, the tape

is rewound from the edit IN point for the period
of time which was set by setup menu No. 000
(P-ROLL TIME), and it then stops.

O If the edit IN point has not been registered, the

tape is rewound from the position where the
button was pressed for the period of time which
was set by setup menu item No.000 (P-ROLL
TIME), and it then stops.

SD955A

While monitoring the TV monitor, search the

4

position (IN point) where the editing is to be
started, and press the PLAY and EDIT buttons
together at this position.

Similarly, while monitoring the TV monitor, search

5

the position (OUT point) where the editing is to be
terminated, and press the PLAY or STOP button at
this position.The unit will change to STOP or PLAY
mode and editing will stop.

<Notes>

O The time code or CTL must be continuously

recorded on the tape between the edit IN point and
preroll point.

O When the IN point has not been registered, it is

possible to select whether to register the IN point
and proceed with the preroll or proceed with the
preroll without registering the IN point using setup
menu No. 313 (AUTO ENTRY).

19

Automatic editing (deck-to-deck)

ON

OFF

POWER

DV

DVCPRO

DVCPRO 50

METER

L

R

FULL/FINE

MONITOR SELECT

HEADPHONES

MONITOR MIX

INPUT SELECT

PREVIEW/PREVIEW

AUTO EDIT

PREROLL

VIDEO

REC LEVEL

CH1

PB LEVEL

AUDIO

CH2 CH3 CH4

TC

PRESET

MENU SET DIAG

SUPER REC INH

INT TCG

MODE

CONTROL

ON

OFF

UNITY

VAR

COUNTER

RESET

A IN

TRIM

SET

OUTIN

A OUT

CH1 CH4CH2

INSERT

CH3

ASSEM

VIDEO CUE TC

STAND BY

EDIT

REW STOP

PLAY REC

PLAYER

RECORDER

FF

JOG SHTL SLOW

TAPE

EE

ON

REGEN
PRESET

EXIT

OFF

REMOTE

LOCAL

1 34 52

ON

OFF

POWER

DV

DVCPRO

DVCPRO 50

METER

L

R

FULL/FINE

MONITOR SELECT

HEADPHONES

MONITOR MIX

INPUT SELECT

PREVIEW/PREVIEW

AUTO EDIT

PREROLL

VIDEO

REC LEVEL

CH1

PB LEVEL

AUDIO

CH2 CH3 CH4

TC

PRESET

MENU SET DIAG

SUPER REC INH

INT TCG

MODE

CONTROL

ON

OFF

UNITY

VAR

COUNTER

RESET

A IN

TRIM

SET

OUTIN

A OUT

CH1 CH4CH2

INSERT

CH3

ASSEM

VIDEO CUE TC

STAND BY

EDIT

REW STOP

PLAY REC

PLAYER

RECORDER

FF

JOG SHTL SLOW

TAPE

EE

ON

REGEN
PRESET

EXIT

OFF

REMOTE

LOCAL

1 2 3

Switch settings and adjustments

SD955A

When using the AJ-SD955A as the recorder

Set the POWER switch to ON.

1

Use the INPUT SELECT buttons to select the

2

video and audio input signals.

Switch the time counter display to TC, CTL or UB.

3

If the recording levels are to be adjusted using the

4

level controls, set the audio level control selector
switch to VAR, and switch to the recording level
adjustments using setup menu No. 738 (AUDIO
VR SEL).
If the recording levels are to be fixed, set the
switch to the UNITY position.

Set the CONTROL switch to LOCAL.

5

When using the AJ-SD955A as the player

Set the POWER switch to ON.

1

If the playback levels are to be adjusted using the

2

level controls, set the audio level control selector
switch to VAR, and switch to the playback level
adjustments using setup menu No. 738 (AUDIO
VR SEL).
If the playback levels are to be fixed, set the switch
to the UNITY position.

Set the CONTROL switch to REMOTE.

3

20

Automatic editing (deck-to-deck)

ON

OFF

POWER

DV

DVCPRO

DVCPRO 50

METER

L

R

FULL/FINE

MONITOR SELECT

HEADPHONES

MONITOR MIX

INPUT SELECT

PREVIEW/PREVIEW

AUTO EDIT

PREROLL

VIDEO

REC LEVEL

CH1

PB LEVEL

AUDIO

CH2 CH3 CH4

TC

PRESET

MENU SET DIAG

SUPER REC INH

INT TCG

MODE

CONTROL

ON

OFF

UNITY

VAR

COUNTER

RESET

A IN

TRIM

SET

OUTIN

A OUT

CH1 CH4CH2

INSERT

CH3

ASSEM

VIDEO CUE TC

STAND BY

EDIT

REW STOP

PLAY REC

PLAYER

RECORDER

FF

JOG SHTL SLOW

TAPE

EE

ON

REGEN
PRESET

EXIT

OFF

REMOTE

LOCAL

1/2 3

ON

OFF

POWER

DV

DVCPRO

DVCPRO 50

METER

L

R

FULL/FINE

MONITOR SELECT

HEADPHONES

MONITOR MIX

INPUT SELECT

PREVIEW/PREVIEW

AUTO EDIT

PREROLL

VIDEO

REC LEVEL

CH1

PB LEVEL

AUDIO

CH2 CH3 CH4

TC

PRESET

MENU SET DIAG

SUPER REC INH

INT TCG

MODE

CONTROL

ON

OFF

UNITY

VAR

COUNTER

RESET

A IN

TRIM

SET

OUTIN

A OUT

CH1 CH4CH2

INSERT

CH3

ASSEM

VIDEO CUE TC

STAND BY

EDIT

REW STOP

PLAY REC

PLAYER

RECORDER

FF

JOG SHTL SLOW

TAPE

EE

ON

REGEN
PRESET

EXIT

OFF

REMOTE

LOCAL

2 1/3

SD955A

Selecting the editing mode

Select the editing mode.

1

For assemble editing, press the ASSEM button.
For insert editing, press the INSERT button.

ASSEM:

This sets the unit to assemble (frame-to-frame
continuity) editing mode.

INSERT:

This sets the unit to insert editing mode.

Select the channels to be edited.

2

With assemble editing, the ASSEM lamp lights.
With insert editing, press the buttons
corresponding to the channels to be edited so that
their lamps light.

Select the VTR to be operated.

3

(Settings for editing using two VTRs)
Press the PLAYER or RECORDER button to select
the VTR which is to be operated.

PLAYER:

Press this button if the player VTR is to be
operated to register the edit points.

RECORDER:

Press this button if the recorder VTR (this unit)
is to be operated to register the edit points.

Registering the edit points

Locate the edit IN point by performing the jog or

1

shuttle operation.
Set the tape to the still picture mode at the desired
position.
For a detailed description of the jog and shuttle
operations, refer to page 18.

Press the SET button while holding down the IN

2

button.
The edit IN point is now registered.
The edit IN point value appears on the display
panel.

Locate the edit OUT point by performing the jog or

3

shuttle operation.
Set the tape to the still picture mode at the desired
position.

Press the SET button while holding down the OUT

4

button.
The edit OUT point is now registered.
The edit OUT point value appears on the display
panel.

Match frame processing function

When two VTRs are used to perform the editing
operations, there will be a total of 4 edit points: the
IN and OUT points for the player and those for the
recorder. However, the last point is automatically
calculated so only three of the edit points need to be
registered.

21

Automatic editing (deck-to-deck)

ON

OFF

POWER

DV

DVCPRO

DVCPRO 50

METER

L

R

FULL/FINE

MONITOR SELECT

HEADPHONES

MONITOR MIX

INPUT SELECT

PREVIEW/PREVIEW

AUTO EDIT

PREROLL

VIDEO

REC LEVEL

CH1

PB LEVEL

AUDIO

CH2 CH3 CH4

TC

PRESET

MENU SET DIAG

SUPER REC INH

INT TCG

MODE

CONTROL

ON

OFF

UNITY

VAR

COUNTER

RESET

A IN

TRIM

SET

OUTIN

A OUT

CH1 CH4CH2

INSERT

CH3

ASSEM

VIDEO CUE TC

STAND BY

EDIT

REW STOP

PLAY REC

PLAYER

RECORDER

FF

JOG SHTL SLOW

TAPE

EE

ON

REGEN
PRESET

EXIT

OFF

REMOTE

LOCAL

4 1/32

Checking and previewing edit points

Press the IN (or OUT) button to check the edit

1

point. The value of the registered edit point
appears on the display panel.

While holding down the IN (or OUT) button, press

2

the PREROLL button and check the picture at the
edit point.
The tape is cued up to the edit IN (or OUT) point,
and a still picture of the point appears.
O If STOP has been selected as the setup menu

No. 315 (AFTER CUE-UP) setting or if the
MODE switch has been set to EE, the VTR is
set to the E-E mode.

By holding down the IN and OUT buttons at the

3

same time, check the editing duration.
The duration appears on the display panel.

SD955A

How to calculate the duration

O When two edit points have been set:

Duration between the two points

O When only one edit point has been set:

Duration between the data which has been
set and the current address

O When no edit points have been set:

Duration of the previously edited section

After the edit points have been registered, press

4

the PREVIEW button.
Regular preview is now conducted.

<Notes>

O If the edit IN point has not been registered, the

position where the PREVIEW button was
pressed is registered as the edit IN point.

O To stop the preview at any time, press the

STOP button.

O When the PREVIEW button is pressed again

after the IN point during the course of a preview,
the preview will start again from the beginning.

O When the edit OUT point is reached, the tape

stops automatically.

22

Automatic editing (deck-to-deck)

ON

OFF

POWER

DV

DVCPRO

DVCPRO 50

METER

L

R

FULL/FINE

MONITOR SELECT

HEADPHONES

MONITOR MIX

INPUT SELECT

PREVIEW/PREVIEW

AUTO EDIT

PREROLL

VIDEO

REC LEVEL

CH1

PB LEVEL

AUDIO

CH2 CH3 CH4

TC

PRESET

MENU SET DIAG

SUPER REC INH

INT TCG

MODE

CONTROL

ON

OFF

UNITY

VAR

COUNTER

RESET

A IN

TRIM

SET

OUTIN

A OUT

CH1 CH4CH2

INSERT

CH3

ASSEM

VIDEO CUE TC

STAND BY

EDIT

REW STOP

PLAY REC

PLAYER

RECORDER

FF

JOG SHTL SLOW

TAPE

EE

ON

REGEN
PRESET

EXIT

OFF

REMOTE

LOCAL

123

Modifying edit points

Re-registering an edit point

1

Locate the new edit point by performing the jog or
shuttle operation, and press the IN (or OUT) button
and SET button at the same time to re-register the
edit point.

Modifying an edit point in 1-frame increments

2

(trimming function)

Press the TRIM button while holding down the IN
(or OUT) button. Each time the + button is
pressed, the point is moved ahead by one frame.
Conversely, each time the – button is pressed, the
point is moved back by one frame.

Resetting edit points

3

O Resetting both an edit IN point and OUT

point

Press the RESET button.
(This takes effect only in the CTL mode.)

SD955A

O Resetting either an edit IN point or OUT point

Press the RESET button while holding down the
IN (or OUT) button.

<Notes>

O An edit OUT point can be reset even while

editing is in progress.

O In the eject mode, the IN and OUT points are

automatically reset.

23

ON

OFF

POWER

DV

DVCPRO

DVCPRO 50

METER

L

R

FULL/FINE

MONITOR SELECT

HEADPHONES

MONITOR MIX

INPUT SELECT

PREVIEW/PREVIEW

AUTO EDIT

PREROLL

VIDEO

REC LEVEL

CH1

PB LEVEL

AUDIO

CH2 CH3 CH4

TC

PRESET

MENU SET DIAG

SUPER REC INH

INT TCG

MODE

CONTROL

ON

OFF

UNITY

VAR

COUNTER

RESET

A IN

TRIM

SET

OUTIN

A OUT

CH1 CH4CH2

INSERT

CH3

ASSEM

VIDEO CUE TC

STAND BY

EDIT

REW STOP

PLAY REC

PLAYER

RECORDER

FF

JOG SHTL SLOW

TAPE

EE

ON

REGEN
PRESET

EXIT

OFF

REMOTE

LOCAL

12

Automatic editing (deck-to-deck)

Executing and reviewing automatic editing

SD955A

Press the AUTO EDIT button.

1

Automatic editing is now executed.
O To suspend editing at any time, press the STOP

button.

O When the edit OUT point is reached, the tape is

post-rolled, after which it stops.

Post-rolling

With assemble editing, editing continues for about
2 seconds after the edit OUT point is passed, the
tape is then returned to the OUT point, after which
it stops.
With insert editing, the PLAY mode is established
after the edit OUT point has been passed, the tape
is then returned to the OUT point, after which it
stops.
The post-roll time can be set using setup menu No.
325 (POSTROLL TM).

Retry function

Even when the STOP button has been pressed to
suspend editing, editing can be repeated from the
beginning simply by pressing the AUTO EDIT
button again.

Upon completion of the editing, press the REVIEW

2

button.
Review is then started by the recorder side.
O To stop the review at any time, press the STOP

button.

O When the edit OUT point is reached, the tape is

post-rolled, after which it stops.

Auto tag function (recorder side)

If, upon completion of editing, the next edit point
has not yet been registered, the previous edit OUT
point is registered as the IN point and editing is
executed when the AUTO EDIT button is pressed.
To release the auto tag mode, press one of the
transport system buttons (such as the PLAY
button).

Registering an OUT point while editing is in
progress

If the SET button is pressed while the OUT button
is being held down when automatic editing is in
progress, the position corresponding to when the
button was pressed is registered as the OUT point
and the editing operation is exited.
Even if the AUTO EDIT button is pressed, the OUT
point is registered and editing is exited in the same
way.

<Note>

The registered points are automatically cleared
after editing has been executed. However, the
previous edit points can be recalled by pressing
the TRIM+ (or TRIM–) button and SET button at
the same time.

24