Powerware V-2000B User Manual

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For use with Software Version 2.10

Image Server Model V-2000B

July 2005

Printed in the United States of America.

Contents

Preface__________________________________________________________ 5

Safety Notices ____________________________________________________ 6

™

Software and Operations Manual Revisions ................................5

Safety Terms and Symbols ........................................................6

General Safety Caution.............................................................6

Personal Injury Precautions.......................................................6

Product Registration.................................................................7

Product Improvements and Upgrades ........................................7

Trademarks .............................................................................7

Software Copyrights .................................................................7

Video and Audio Copyright Reminder .......................................7

Introduction _____________________________________________________ 8

Key Features and Benefits 12 Applications for 360 Systems’ Image Servers 13 Available Models and Options 14

Installation______________________________________________________ 17

Unpacking 17 Rack Mounting 18 Important Information on Equipment Cooling 18 Important Information on Power Conditioning 19 About Image Server Software 19

The Image Server Hardware Interface ________________________________ 20

Front Panel Features 20

Power ON/OFF button ...........................................................20

Indicators..............................................................................20

Rear Panel Features 22

Video Inputs .........................................................................22

Video Outputs.......................................................................22

Audio I/O .............................................................................22

Analog/Digital Audio Selection ...............................................23

Serial Control Ports ................................................................23

Gigabit Ethernet Ports.............................................................24

GPI Control ...........................................................................24

Genlock Sync Reference.........................................................24

LTC Time Code Input .............................................................25

Contents • i

LTC Time Code Output ..........................................................25

Keyboard..............................................................................25

Mouse ..................................................................................25

Monitor ................................................................................25

Power...................................................................................25

Basic Operations _________________________________________________ 27

The Image Server Desktop 27

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

Shutting Down Image Server...................................................27

Keyboard Shortcuts ................................................................28

On-Screen Main Menu Bar 28

File ......................................................................................29

Transport ..............................................................................29

Configuring the Image Server..................................................29

Window Arrangement ............................................................29

About ...................................................................................30

Clip Transport Window 31

Menus ..................................................................................31

The Status Bar .......................................................................35

Transport Controls .................................................................36

Keyboard Shortcuts ................................................................38

Recording 39

Setting up to Record...............................................................39

Making a Recording ...............................................................40

Playing a Clip 42

Setting up for Playback ...........................................................42

Playing a Clip........................................................................42

Editing a Clip 44

Edit-while-Recording ..............................................................44

Embedded Audio (Option)__________________________________________ 47

Introduction ..........................................................................47

Setup....................................................................................47

Configuration ........................................................................49

Audio Sample Rate Conversion ...............................................50

DV Video and Graphics____________________________________________ 51

Importing TARGA Graphics Files.............................................51

Animation Import ..................................................................51

FTP File Transfers ..................................................................52

Key/Fill Mode........................................................................52

Still Frames...........................................................................53

Advanced Playlisting ______________________________________________ 55

Advanced Playlist Features and Benefits...................................55

The As-Run Log .....................................................................62

Editing a Clip ........................................................................66

Automation Control ______________________________________________ 69

Remote Serial Control 69

Controller Priority..................................................................69

Communication Protocol Setup 69

VDCP Options ......................................................................70

ii • Contents

Communication Port Parameters .............................................71

Tested Automation Controllers 71 Tested Remote Control Panels and Switchers 73

System Configuration _____________________________________________ 74

System..................................................................................74

Options ................................................................................74

Date/Time.............................................................................75

Channels ..............................................................................75

System Config Options 75

Timing Tab ...........................................................................75

Channel Configuration 82

Input Configuration................................................................82

Output Configuration .............................................................85

Hard Disk Management____________________________________________ 87

About RAID 5 .......................................................................87

Improved Write Performance ..................................................88

Managing Disk Arrays 88

Error Notification and Repair...................................................88

Log-In to the RAID Utilities.....................................................90

Displaying the Summary Window of the Raid Array ..................91

Determining the Condition of The RAID Array ..........................92

Rebuilding a RAID Array ........................................................93

The Maintenance Window – Rebuild Progress ..........................94

Replacing Hard Drives ...........................................................94

Network File Transfers ____________________________________________ 96

MXF File Transfers .................................................................96

Network Operations 96

Using the Image Server in a Large Network ..............................96

Transfer of Edited Segments ....................................................96

File Sizes Reported in Listing...................................................97

FTP File Transfers ..................................................................98

Gigabit Ethernet Hardware 99

Redundant Server Connection .................................................99

Gigabit Ethernet Cable Quality................................................99

Configuring Network Settings 99

Network Settings Tab ........................................................... 100

Saving Network Configuration .............................................. 101

Maintenance ___________________________________________________ 102

Fault Diagnostics 102

Front Panel Indicators........................................................... 102

Gigabit Ethernet Indicators.................................................... 103

Access to Components 103

Removing the Front Panel..................................................... 103

Removing the Top Cover...................................................... 103

General Handling Precautions............................................... 104

Installing/Removing I/O Cards............................................... 105

Accessing the Motherboard................................................... 105

Analog/Digital Audio Selection 106 Audio Level Calibration 107

Calibration Procedure .......................................................... 107

Contents • iii

Program Updates via CD-ROM 109 Replacing a Hard Drive 110 Factory Repair Policy 110 Regulatory Certifications 111

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

Laser Compliance ................................................................ 111

Radio Interference Compliance ............................................. 111

Product Warranty and End-User License Agreement ____________________ 113

Limited Warranty 113 End User License Agreement 115

Appendix A ____________________________________________________ 117

Connector Specifications 117

Audio XLR-3 Connector Pinout ............................................. 117

Serial Control Connector Pinout ............................................ 117

BNC Connectors.................................................................. 118

GPI Connector Pinout .......................................................... 118

System Board Ports .............................................................. 120

Appendix B ____________________________________________________ 121

Serial Command Protocols 121

VDCP Command Table ........................................................ 121

P2 Serial Command Table .................................................... 123

Odetics® Protocol ................................................................ 125

Appendix C ____________________________________________________ 128

Technical Specifications 128 Keyboard Shortcuts 130

Appendix D ____________________________________________________ 131

Mechanical Drawing 131

iv • Contents

Preface

This manual provides installation, setup and operating instructions for 360 Systems’ Image Server 2000™ and the Multi-Format Image Server, which includes DV and graphics capability. It is organized to provide quick access to topics of primary interest. An extensive Table of Contents is provided at the beginning, and a subject Index at the end, to assist in locating information.

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

Software and Operations Manual Revisions

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

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

Definitions

For the purposes of this manual, “GPI” is defined as “General Purpose Interface,” with associated inputs (GPI Inputs) and outputs (GPI Outputs).

Typographical Conventions

The following typographical conventions are used to clarify meaning:

Connector or indicator labeling that appears on the unit is shown in Arial Narrow Bold. GUI menu items are shown in Arial Bold. GUI sub-menu paths are shown by the > symbol.

Feedback on this Manual

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

Safety Notices • 5

Safety Notices

Safety Terms and Symbols

THE FOLLOWING WARNING SYMBOLS ARE USED IN THIS MANUAL :

ENGLISH ATTENTION: REFER TO OWNER’S MANUAL FOR IMPORTANT

FRANÇAIS ATTENTION: VEUILLEZ VOUS RÉFÉRER AU MODE D’EMPLOI

ITALIANO ATTENZIONE: FATE RIFERIMENTO AL MANUALE PER

ESPAÑOL ATENTCION: FAVOR DE REFERIR AL MANUAL DE

INFORMATION.

POUR UNE INFORMATI ON IMPORTANTE.

INFORMAZIONI IMPORTA NTI.

OPERACION POR INFORM ACION IMPORTANTE.

ENGLISH WARNING: ELECTRICAL SHOCK HAZARD. FRANÇAIS AVERTISSEMENT: DANGER DE CHOC ÉLECTRIQUE. ITALIANO AVVERTIMENTO: PERIC OLO DI SHOCK ELETTRICO. ESPAÑOL ADVERTENSIA: PELIGR O DE CHOQUE ELECTRICO.

General Safety Caution

Heed the following important cautions regarding the Image Server in order to avoid personal injury or equipment damage.

Only qualified personnel should perform installation and service. Refer to appropriate sections of this product manual for instruction. Contact 360 Systems Customer Support for further explanation, or to clarify any uncertainty.

Disconnect the power cord before removing the cover.

Personal Injury Precautions

To avoid electric shock, do not operate this product with covers removed. To avoid risk of fire, replace the power cord only with same type and rating as specified. Replace damaged power cords immediately. This product is grounded through the grounding conductor of the power cord. To avoid electric shock, do not remove or modify the contacts on the plug. Prevent the power cord from being walked on, pinched, or abraded. To reduce the risk of fire or electric shock, do not expose this unit to rain or moisture. Remove jewelry, such as rings, watches, or necklaces before servicing this equipment.

6 • Safety Notices

Product Damage Precautions

Image Server recorders contain hard disk drives and other fragile electronic and mechanical devices. While this product is very reliable, it is still vulnerable to shock. Handle it with care, and exercise caution not to drop or bump the recorder as damage to internal components may result. Turn off power before moving the server.

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

the product. CAUTION: Replace only with the same, or equivalent, battery type. BR and CR Lithium batteries

are safe for disposal in municipal waste. Batteries should be fully discharged prior to disposal. CAUTION: Never use the power supply switch to shutdown the Image Server. Doing so may

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

Product Registration

Important – As the owner of new capital equipment, you will want to take advantage of the product information, enhancements, upgrades, or notifications issued by 360 Systems. Send in your Warranty Card so 360 Systems can remain in contact with you. Mail or fax it to 360 Systems offices in the USA at the address given below.

Product Improvements and Upgrades

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

Trademarks

Image Server 2000, Multi-Format Image Server, 360 Systems, 360 Systems Broadcast, Bit-for-Bit, and Direct Digital Import are trademarks or registered trademarks of 360 Systems in the U.S. and/or foreign countries. Other trademarks referred to in this document are the property of their respective owners.

Software Copyrights

Video and Audio Copyright Reminder

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

Safety Notices • 7

Introduction

360 Systems’ Image Server 2000™ and Multi-Format Image Server are multi-stream video recorder/servers designed for television broadcast, production, and Pro-AV applications. Image Servers can play three independent video streams at once, and store up to 170 hours of MPEG-2 video, with four audio channels per video stream, in just 3½” of rack space. The server’s extensive feature set makes it an excellent choice for VTR replacement, automation, remote trucks, P-E-G applications, corporate and entertainment presentations. The Image Server is produced in both NTSC and PAL models. References in this document to frame counts other than 29.97 or 30 frames should be understood to be a PAL example.

The Transition to a Digital Plant

The Image Server smoothes the transition to digital production and broadcasting by providing both composite video (VDCP) and serial digital (SDI) interfaces, plus network transfers in MXF format over Gigabit Ethernet. It’s never necessary to add additional video A/D or D/A converters, and a full complement of premium-quality MPEG-2 codecs is included as standard equipment. The server’s dual analog and digital personality—for both video and audio—lets it fit seamlessly into an existing analog facility, or become part of a new digital build-out. Apart from serving its intended purposes, the Image Server is also valuable for its ability to convert between different analog and digital media formats in real-time.

Exceptional Storage Capacity

The Image Server’s program storage is scaleable to suit the needs of both small and large users. It houses four hard drives within its compact enclosure, providing from 52 to over 170 hours of storage at 12 Mb/s (Megabits per second). Storage time is proportional at other data rates. The server’s RAID-5 disk array provides a high level of security for stored programs. By spreading parity information across all drives, the RAID array keeps the server in service, even with a failed drive. The multi-drive array also generates the high data rates needed for multiple video streams at up to 50 Mb/s, and enables fast program transfers through the Gigabit Ethernet ports.

Drive Size

120 GB 480 GB 52 hours 72 hours 250 GB 1.0 TB 112 hours 150 hours 400 GB 1.6 TB 170 hours 250 hours

The Image Server’s unique ability to play two video streams while recording another, and at the same time perform network file transfers over Ethernet, makes it far more than just a replacement for a VTR.

Storage Capacity

(4 drives)

IMAGE SERVER STORAGE TIMES

Time @ 12 Mb/s

2 audio channels

Time @ 8 Mb/s

2 audio channels

8 = Introduction

Image Servers Support Traditional VTR Functions

The Image Server is a perfect drop-in replacement for popular VTRs. It saves costs for tape, machine maintenance, cassette prep, and storage. Its three output channels perform any combination of tasks, including responding to GUI or automation commands, clip trimming or browsing.

Unlike a VTR, the Image Server can simultaneously record and play a program. A new recording can start at any time, even when two simultaneous playbacks are in progress. As a VTR replacement, the Image Server is controlled through a standard serial interface. Many popular serial protocols are supported, allowing the Image Server to immediately operate with the controllers you already own. These include VDCP, Odetics, P2, AMX and Crestron. Six “GPI” Input and Output control channels are also provided.

Compatibility with Automation Controllers

Image Servers work with automation controllers from many different manufacturers. They use established VDCP and Odetics® protocols and provide a 9-pin control input port for each server channel, for maximum flexibility. 360 Systems’ Automation Partners provide controllers for applications ranging from affordable systems for P-E-G and Pro-AV, up to large-scale broadcast solutions. Contact a 360 Systems application engineer for assistance with your requirements.

Remote Controls

Hardware accessories are available from third-party manufacturers to perform transport control, trimming, clip replay and playlisting (automation). A table of approved controllers is provided elsewhere in this manual. Contact 360 Systems Sales Support team for assistance with a specific application.

The Image Server also provides six GPI inputs for remote play, stop, and record capability from push-button panels or other GPI-controlled equipment. Six outputs are also provided for command acknowledgement, and may drive LEDs or logic inputs.

Extended Feature Set

The Image Server encodes video in MPEG-2 format, in 4:2:2 Profile with data rates to 50 Mb/s, or in Main Profile from 2 to 15 Mb/s. Both I-frame and long-GOP formats are supported. MPEG-2 file transfers in MXF-format are compatible with servers from other market leaders.

The DV and Graphics Option (and the Multi-Format Image Server) allows Direct Digital Import™ of DV and TARGA files over Ethernet. DV-25 files may be edited, playlisted, stored and played out. TARGA files will be converted into separate MPEG-2 Key-and-Fill files, which can then be played as a synchronized pair for downstream compositing in a switcher.

As standard equipment, the Image Server includes LTC and VITC time code capabilities, closed-captioning, VDCP, P2 and Odetics 9-pin control, GPI inputs and outputs, and Gigabit Ethernet ports. Embedded audio is available as an option.

Introduction = 9

Full Slate of Audio Features

Image Servers include both analog and digital audio circuits, making it an important tool in the transition to digital broadcasting. It includes gold XLR connectors for audio inputs and outputs, and each can be configured for either AES/EBU digital or +4 dBu balanced analog. SDI embedded audio is also available as an option. In discrete digital format, each video program can have four channels of audio, whereas analog I/O provides two channels. (An AES/EBU line on a single XLR connector carries two audio channels, so a given number of XLR connectors make more channels possible in digital format.)

360 Systems brings over 30 years experience in broadcast and pro-audio to the audio design of Image Servers. It utilizes a 24-bit word, and delivers a 20 dB improvement in SNR (10 times!) compared with older 16-bit audio systems. An insertable sample-rate converter is included, plus input circuits with excellent hum and RF rejection, and 20 dB of headroom. 360 Systems’ Bitfor-Bit® design strategy guarantees that when a Dolby®-E, Dolby AC3, or any other encoded program is recorded, it will play back correctly.

On-Screen Graphic User Interface

The Image Server’s On-Screen graphic user interface (GUI) gives fast access to all server functions. It is controlled by a standard keyboard and mouse (supplied) and requires only a VESAcompliant SVGA display.

The GUI displays a complete control panel for each server channel, which includes transport control buttons, clip file management and head and tail trimming, allowing the Image Server to operate as three self-contained VTR equivalents.

System configuration is clear and straightforward with the On-Screen GUI. It provides access to MPEG-2 encoding parameters, audio channel and time-code settings. Whenever new server features are installed (using the built-in CD-ROM drive) new set-up parameters and userinterface features become immediately available.

The GUI can be remotely accessed by a Windows PC through an Ethernet link, or of a wide-area connection using a high-security remote KVM product. Contact 360 Systems sales for complete information on these options.

MXF Networking over Gigabit Ethernet

Image Servers move beyond providing just a simple base-band solution for video input and output. MXF file transfers over Gigabit Ethernet open the door to new IP solutions for transferring video across the room—or across the country—at exceptionally low cost.

By using economical switches and computer-industry infrastructure, the Image Server’s Gigabit Ethernet design enables low-cost networking of broadcast operations from ingest to storage, for editing, play-to-air, and archiving. The Image Server moves programs many times faster than real time, saving time and streamlining operations.

360 Systems’ MXF implementation uses Operational Patterns 1a and 1b. It has been tested for compatibility with MXF files from many other manufacturers. 360 Systems can make Image Server MXF files available for testing and evaluation through our FTP Site. Contact the customer service department to arrange for access.

10 = Introduction

Reliability Counts

360 Systems has 34 years experience manufacturing equipment for television broadcast and other critical industries. We understand quality and reliability, and we’ve paid close attention to design issues like power, cooling, and protecting stored data. We’ve even included alarms on key server components.

Self-Mirroring Image Servers

When the very highest level of reliability is required, Image Servers are priced so attractively that it can even make good business sense to install them in redundant pairs. 360 Systems offers a Dual Server Controller that allows an automation system to transparently control a redundant pair of Image Servers in parallel. For more information on redundant servers, visit our web site at

www.360systems.com or contact 360 Systems’ Sales Department.

Introduction = 11

Key Features and Benefits

The Image Server is designed from the ground up to deliver outstanding performance and value in a multi-channel MPEG-2 and DV-format server. Three video outputs with analog, digital, and Gigabit Ethernet interfaces make it an excellent choice for the next-generation plant.

• MPEG-2: Main Profile @ Main Level and 4:2:2 Profile @ Main Level to 50 Mb/s.

• Optional import and playout of DV-format video and TARGA graphics files

• Drag-and-Drop FTP transfers from popular desktop editing programs

• Internal RAID-5 storage configurable to 170 hours

• Three simultaneous video outputs, 1 video input

• SDI and composite video inputs and outputs

• Includes balanced analog and AES/EBU digital audio ports as standard equipment

• Four audio channels (2 AES stereo pairs) for each video channel

• Embedded audio available as an option

• Serial control via VDCP, P2, or Odetics, AMX or Crestron protocol

• Compatible with leading broadcast automation systems

• Fast FTP network transfers on Gigabit Ethernet

• LTC Time code input and output; VITC written and read

• Frame-accurate head and tail trimming

• Advanced Playlisting: Build, edit, store, playback, and loop multiple lists

• Looping

• Closed-Captions

• Keyboard shortcuts speed editing tasks

• Set-up, administration and control via graphic user interface

• Remote GUI software for Windows available

• 32-character file names

• Compact 2RU (3½”) [88mm] enclosure, low power consumption

• Low cost

12 = Introduction

Applications for 360 Systems’ Image Servers

Image Servers add value to a wide variety of applications in broadcasting, cable distribution, video production, P-E-G, entertainment and sports venues. Many of these tasks are impractical with videotape because of its nature as a slow-response, single-channel device. In contrast, the video server provides immediate record and playback of any source, and lends a spontaneous appearance to broadcasts, presentations and live events.

• News Production – Promos, teasers, intros, news segments, graphics, animation

• Graphics Server – Play TARGA files with key-and-fill

• Master Control – Program and commercial playout, station IDs, promos, teasers

• Program Ingest – Automated capture of satellite, tape, microwave, and fiber feeds

• FTP File Delivery – Deliver news, promos, spots over DSL or ATM lines

• Play-to-Air Server – Playback under automation control

• Program Store-and-Forward – Temporary storage for subsequent delivery

• Commercial Insertion – Playout under automation control

• Instant Replay – Hot Key playback of sports plays, news clips, stills, and graphics

• Sports Shows and Events – Player bios, animations, graphics, promos

• Game Shows – Prizes, graphics, animations, promos

• Talk and Variety Shows – Promos, teasers, intros, outros, graphics, animations

• Award Shows – Nominees, categories, promos, graphics, animations

• Theme Parks and Casinos – Playout for show backgrounds, event lists, kiosks

• Houses of Worship -- Projection displays, program production, broadcasting

• Colleges and Universities – On-campus networks, production, presentations

• Digital Signage – drive projectors, flat-panel displays, kiosks

• Entertainment Industry – Road show displays, projection

• Public Access, City Governments – Long recording times, high quality video

• Small & Mid Broadcast Markets – High performance at an attractive price

Introduction = 13

Available Models and Options

Image Server 2000 Model V2000-120

Provides 1-input, 3 outputs, MPEG-2 encoding to 50 Mb/sec, MXF network transfers, head and tail trimming, playlisting, (4) 120 GB drives in RAID-5 array provides 52 hours of storage at 12 Mb/sec.

Image Server 2000 Model V2000-250

As above, with 112 hours of storage at 12 Mb/sec

Image Server 2000 Model V2000-400

As above, with 170 hours of storage at 12 Mb/sec

DV and Graphics Option

Upgrades Image Server 2000 to include direct import of DV-format video and TARGA graphics files over Ethernet. Plays DV in native format and graphics with simultaneous key and fill. Direct FTP file import from Photoshop®, After Effects®, Final Cut Pro®, Xpress DV/Pro™, Liquid Edition, Vegas video. May be added to an existing Image Server.

Multi-Format Image Server Model V2000-MF-120

This Image Server includes direct import of DV-format video and TARGA graphics files over Ethernet. Plays DV in native format and graphics with simultaneous key

and fill. Direct FTP file import from Photoshop®, After Effects®, Final Cut Pro®, Xpress DV/Pro™, Liquid Edition, Vegas video.

Multi-Format Image Server Model V2000-MF-250

As above, with 112 hours of storage at 12 Mb/sec

Multi-Format Image Server Model V2000-MF-400

As above, with 170 hours of storage at 12 Mb/sec

Embedded Audio Option

Upgrades Image Server 2000 or Multi-Format Image Server for operation with SDI embedded audio. Provides 4-channels, 48k sample rate, 20-bit resolution on input and all outputs. May be added in the field to servers with S/N after 300.

Advanced Playlisting Upgrade

Upgrades earlier Image Servers to provide Advanced Playlisting capability (standard in servers from May

2005).

Storage Upgrades

Upgrades any Image Server having small drives to provide either 112 or 400 hours of storage (at 12 Mb/sec). Field installable.

PAL Models

Add the suffix PAL to model number when ordering. Specify type of mains cord required.

14 = Introduction

Maintenance Spares

360 Systems’ is committed to keeping your Image Server on air. The server contains hard disk drives and other fragile electronic devices; and while it is designed to be very reliable, having spare parts on hand in the event of a fault is a good practice. Hard disk spares are particularly important. Please consider these important options at the time of your purchase, or shortly after.

• 120 GB Image Server Hard Drive for 52-hour servers

• 250 GB Image Server Hard Drive for 112 hour servers

• 400 GB Image Server Hard Drive for 170 hour servers

• Image Server Power Supply, universal line voltage

Introduction = 15

Installation

Unpacking

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

Keep the packing materials in the event that a unit must be shipped by you. If the original packaging is not available, make sure that the following criteria are met:

• Packaging must be able to withstand the product weight.

• Product must be held firmly within the package.

• There must be at least two inches (50mm) of space between the product and outer container.

• The corners of the product must be protected.

Package Contents

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

ü Image Server

ü Keyboard

ü 2-Button Scroll Mouse.

ü Software CD-ROM, backup copy

ü Rack Mount Hardware Kit

ü Operations Manual

ü Quick Start Guide

ü Audio Connector Labels

ü Power cord

ü Warranty Card

The Image Server is not shipped with a video monitor. You may select a VESA-compliant CRT or LCD monitor suitable for your application.

If you own more than one Image Server, it may be appropriate to use a single keyboard, monitor, and mouse with a KVM switch to select between servers.

Installation = 17

Rack Mounting

Refer to instructions packaged with the Rack Mount Hardware Kit for specific installation information.

Note: If you plan to use digital audio, be sure to change the configuration of the Analog/Digital Audio Jumpers inside the unit before mounting the Image Server in a rack. The jumpers are factory set to the Analog audio position. For more information about changing the jumpers, see Analog/Digital Audio Selection on page 106.

There are four adhesive-backed rubber feet on the Image Server, which may be removed when rack mounting the unit.

Generally, the Image Server will be mounted in a 19” rack enclosure having 10-32 tapped holes. The Image Server can be adapted to rack enclosures having untapped round or square holes by using the nuts and washers included with the mounting kit.

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

Keep the air vent slots on the sides of the Image Server free of obstructions. Remove the front panel to expose the rack screw slots. Fasten the Image Server into the rack using

10-32 flat-head Phillips screws (provided). Replace the front panel. Tighten the front panel access screws.

Important Information on Equipment Cooling

When many pieces of equipment are mounted in an equipment rack, a considerable amount of heat may be produced, which must be removed efficiently. Further, a lower operating temperature will make equipment operate more reliably, and it will last longer. In the extreme case, excessive temperatures cause rapid equipment failure, and damage which can be difficult to repair.

Heat in an equipment rack should be removed by forced air. This is often accomplished by blowers installed in the top of the rack, venting into the room. An alternative is to draw hot air from the top of the rack into an air-conditioning return duct, and not vent it into the equipment room; cold air should be ducted into the bottom of the rack.

The optimum air temperature for cooling electronic equipment is 25° C (72° F). When many pieces of equipment are contributing to the heat load, a substantial air-flow will be needed, and the inlet temperature may need to be lower.

Check These Points

• Are all ventilation holes in the Image Server free of obstruction?

• Can blowers or HVAC system adequately remove heat from the equipment rack?

• Have you measured the actual temperature inside the rack? Do this near the top.

• Verify that the HVAC system is not on a timer that can shut off on weekends or holidays.

• What procedures are in place to protect the equipment when the HVAC system fails?

18 = Hardware Interface

Important Information on Power Conditioning

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

UPS units suitable for smoothing short-term power line problems come in two varieties:

Change-over UPS Design

This design senses drop-outs and low-line voltage, and switches its output to an internal inverter operating from a battery. This UPS is low in cost, and is most often used in non-critical applications such as desk-top computers. A disadvantage is that it may create its own power transients when switching between utility power and its inverter supply.

Continuous Conversion UPS Design

This improved design continuously converts utility power to DC, stores it in a battery, then produces isolated AC power from an inverter. It never switches, and is immune to input transients, brownouts, and blackouts. Models are available with batteries of almost any size, making the continuous-conversion UPS suitable for transient suppression or long-term operating power the absence of utility power.

Recommended UPS Models

The following makes of continuous conversion UPS systems are suitable for use with 360 Systems’ Image Server products:

• Eaton/Powerware Corporation, Model 9125, www.powerware.com

About Image Server Software

The Image Server is shipped with its operating system and application programs already installed. The first time that it is started, it must be connected to a keyboard, monitor and mouse. The Image

Server will ask you to accept the licensing agreement before it will allow any operation. This screen will only appear during the initial startup, or until accepted.

THE CD-ROM SUPPLIED IS ONLY FOR USE IN REINSTALLING THESE PROGRAMS. DO NOT LEAVE IT IN THE CD-ROM DRIVE.

If for any reason it becomes necessary to reinstall any software, refer to the Maintenance chapter for instructions.

The CD-ROM drive is intended only for installing software. It may not be used to load video or audio program content.

Installation = 19

The Image Server Hardware Interface

Front Panel Features

Figure 1: Image Server Front Panel

Power ON/OFF button

The blue front panel button initiates start-up and shut-down of the Image Server. Press it momentarily to start the server. A sequence of start-up screens will appear, ending with the 3channel graphic user interface.

When the Image Server is running, pressing the blue button momentarily will cause the system to begin an orderly shutdown. In the event that the system has stopped responding to commands and will not shutdown, hold the button in for 4 seconds to force a power down.

Do not use the rear panel switch on the power supply to shut down the Image Server. Abrupt power loss can cause loss of information stored on the disk array. See Shutting Down Image Server on page 27 for details.

Indicators

Five blue LED Status Indicators appear on the front panel. These indicators are illuminated continuously when the system is functioning normally. See the table Front Panel Indicators on page 102 for diagnostic meanings.

20 = Hardware Interface

CVBS

SDI

OUT1

MADE IN USA

SDI

OUT

WESTLAKE VILLAGE, CALIFORNIA, USA

OUT

SDI

OUT3

41 2 3 5 6

LTC IN

CH 1-3

GENLOCK

INPUT

CH 1-3

LTC OUT

(6) opto-isolated inputs, (6) status outputs

DIGITAL

ANALOG

NET 2NET 1

MAIN IN R

AUX IN L/R

INPUT

MAIN IN L

MAIN IN L/R

FROM S/N 300

Rear Panel Drawing

MAIN 1 R

MAIN 1 L

MAIN 2 R

OUTPUT

AUX 1 L/R

MAIN 1 L/R

AUX 2 L/R

GIGABIT LAN

MONITOR

GPI

SERIAL

USB

11 12 13 14 15 16 17

9. Mouse port

10. Keyboard port

11. GPI port, 25-pin female:

12. SVGA monitor port

13. (2) Gigabit Ethernet ports

14. Genlock Input

15. LTC time code output

16. (3) SDI video outputs

17. SDI video input

Figure 2: Rear Panel Features

MAIN 2 L

MAIN 2 L/R

KEYBD

MAIN 3 R

AUX 3 L/R

MOUSE

MAIN 3 L

MAIN 3 L/R

CH 1 REC/PLAY

CH 2 PLAY

CH 3 PLAY

100 - 240 VOLTS, 50 - 60Hz, 2 AMPS MAX

7 8 9

or +4 balanced analog)

1. (3) serial control ports (EIA-422)

2. (6) XLR-3 audio outputs (AES/EBU digital

3. (2) XLR-3 audio inputs (AES/EBU digital

4. LTC time code input

5. (3) Composite video outputs

6. Composite video input

7. AC Power connector

8. AC Power switch

Hardware Interface = 21

Rear Panel Features

Video Inputs

The Image Server provides a single video input channel. This channel includes separate BNC inputs for serial digital (“SDI” per SMPTE 259M) and analog video (CVBS) signals. The graphic user interface allows selection between the two. Encoding to MPEG-2 format is performed within the server. Video inputs have a fixed 75-ohm termination.

Video Outputs

Video outputs are provided in SDI and Composite (CVBS) formats simultaneously. Digital video appears in SDI format at 270 Mb/s and conforms to SMPTE 259M. Analog video is in conventional composite (CVBS) format.

Video Output 1 can superimpose time code over picture as a “window burn” on NTSC models. This feature is available only on the CVBS video output, and is enabled through the On-Screen graphic user interface.

Audio I/O

The Image Server can provide audio inputs and outputs in three formats:

• Balanced analog audio at the industry-standard reference level of +4 dBu.

• Digital audio in AES/EBU format per AES-3-2000.

• SDI embedded audio, 4-channels (server option)

These multiple standards facilitate the transition from an analog studio to digital production and broadcasting, and ensures that the server can operate with virtually any external equipment. Note that both analog and AES/EBU audio signals are not available at the same time on a given input or output. Internal jumpers select between analog or digital; however, input and output can be set up differently, if desired. A set of XLR-3 connectors allows high-quality connections to be made in either format. Embedded audio, when installed as a server option, appears in the SDI output at all times.

Analog Audio Capability

When the analog audio input format is selected, each video channel has two audio

channels, recorded together as a stereo pair. Trimmers allow adjustment to unity gain.

Digital Audio Capability

When AES/EBU digital audio is selected, each video channel has four audio channels, which

are recorded as two stereo pairs. Because a single XLR connector carries a stereo pair in

digital format, and only one (mono) channel in analog, the server provides an extra pair of

audio channels when used with digital audio signals.

22 = Hardware Interface

Embedded Audio Capability

When SDI embedded audio is selected, four audio channels are available for recording.

Embedded audio is always present in the video outputs. Note that discrete audio (analog or

AES/EBU) is also available on XLR connectors, at the same time embedded audio appears in

the video stream. Embedded audio has a 20-bit resolution.

Audio Word Size and Sample Rate

The Image Server employs 24-bit audio A/D and D/A converters, and records audio into a

24-bit frame, regardless of the word size received. The sample rate is fixed at 48K.

Analog/Digital Audio Selection

The following drawing illustrates jumper positions to select between analog or digital audio. Note that each output may be individually selected. As described earlier, when analog audio is selected, only two channels are available, while selection of AES/EBU digital audio provides two stereo pairs, one on each XLR connector. Both jumpers for each channel (Left & Right, or Main & Aux) must be set together, either analog or digital. The Image Server must be power cycled for jumper changes to take effect. For more detail, see Analog/Digital Audio Selection in the Maintenance chapter.

GAIN ADJUST

Figure 3: Jumper location on audio card for selection of analog or digital audio.

Audio Format Labels

A sheet of labels is supplied with each server for identifying the audio connector

configuration on the rear panel. After the jumpers are set, apply appropriate “Analog” or

“Digital” labels above the corresponding connectors on the rear edge of the top cover.

Serial Control Ports

Each of the Image Server’s three 9-pin “D” connectors permits independent control of any of

the three video channels. They can accept serial commands in VDCP, P2, Odetics, AMX or

Crestron protocol. Its multiple serial ports allow you to simultaneously connect an

automation controller and a desktop controller. See the chapter on Automation Control for

more detail on this subject.

JUMPER BLOCK PAIR SHOWN

IN DIGITAL POSITION

JUMPER BLOCK PAIR SHOWN

IN ANALOG POSITION

DIGITAL ANALOG

Hardware Interface = 23

Most broadcast automation systems, and some remote control panels employ the VDCP

protocol. A detailed list of supported VDCP commands will be found in Appendix B.

Many controllers used for transport, instant replay, and edit control employ P2 or Odetics

protocol. The Image Server P2 protocol emulates BVW-series tape machines. Many Pro-AV

systems employ AMX and Crestron protocol.

Gigabit Ethernet Ports

Two Gigabit Ethernet ports are provided on the Image Server. The NET 1 port is intended for network transfer of program content between video servers. The server supports MXF file transfer (MPEG-2, Op 1a and 1b), which allows content interchange between products from different manufacturers, as well as file import in various formats from desktop editors. The NET 2 port is reserved for data transfer between two Image Servers, when configured for redundant operation.

GPI Control

The Image Server provides six GPI inputs for control of machine functions, which appear on the 25-pin GPI connector. This “General Purpose Interface” can be connected to switch contacts or an open-collector transistor output. GPI inputs are programmable, and can provide machine control such as PLAY, STOP, or RECORD through simple external switches.

The Image Server also provides six GPI status outputs which may be used to confirm that a command has been received, or for other purposes. These functions of these open-collector outputs are programmable, and may be used to operate an LED, or they can be connected to a suitable logic input. The pin-out for the GPI connector will be found in Connector Specifications.

Genlock Sync Reference

A BNC connector is provided on the rear panel to receive a genlock signal. During normal operation, the Image Server should be referenced to an external genlock reference in the form of CVBS Black. As with all video systems, this server and equipment connected to it must be referenced to a common genlock source. The GENLOCK input provides a fixed 75-ohm termination.

An internal crystal reference is also provided so that the server can be used as a stand-alone player, and also for convenience in performing tests in the laboratory. Use particular care when operating the server with an internal reference, as synchronization with other equipment is not possible. Additionally, recording is not allowed when using the internal crystal.

Genlock Signal Quality

A genlock signal connected to the Image Server must conform to the RS-170A standard. PLL circuits used within the server remove residual jitter from the genlock signal. This may preclude the use of low-cost VTRs that introduce time instability (wow) into their output, making them inaccurate as a genlock input source.

24 = Hardware Interface

LTC Time Code Input

A LTC time code input is provided on the LTC IN BNC connector. This input may be selected by means of the On-Screen user interface and recorded as a time code reference. The LTC input provides a >10k ohm termination.

LTC Time Code Output

An LTC time code output is provided on the LTC OUT BNC connector. It may be selected by means of the On-Screen user interface to output time code from any of the three video channels during playback. The LTC output has a low source impedance of <5 ohms.

Keyboard

Attach the alphanumeric keyboard to the purple 5-pin KEYBD connector to control the server

and manage clips with the On-Screen graphic user interface. Note that the server will only

recognize the keyboard if it is attached before power up.

Mouse

A two-button scroll mouse is provided with the Image Server. Plug the mouse into the green

5-pin MOUSE port. Note that the server will only recognize the mouse if it is attached before

power up.

Monitor

A VESA-compliant computer monitor may be connected to the 15-pin VGA video port. The

Image Server resolution is fixed at 1024 x 768 pixels, with a refresh rate of 72 Hz. This is

best-viewed on 17-inch or larger monitors. 360 Systems does not provide monitors for the

server. Note: Do not use older monitors that do not state they are VESA compliant.

Serial Port

The system board serial port is not used. Make no connection.

USB Ports

The system board USB ports are not used. Make no connection.

Power

An IEC mains socket is provided on the rear panel for power input. The Image Server will

accept worldwide power sources in the range of 100-240 volts AC, 50-60 Hz. The server is

shipped with a power cord appropriate for the region in which it is sold. Replace the power

cord only with one of the same type and rating.

Hardware Interface = 25

DO NOT use the power supply switch to shutdown the Image Server. Shutdown the

system only by momentarily pressing the front panel power button, or through the

SHUTDOWN command on the On-Screen user interface. The rear panel power switch

should only be used if the Image Server fails to shutdown after holding the front panel power

switch for 4 seconds.

The server may also be shut down from the graphic user interface. Click

START>SHUTDOWN>SHUTDOWN. After a few seconds, shutdown will occur.

26 = Hardware Interface

Basic Operations

This section introduces the Image Server Graphic user Interface (GUI), its menus and its operating controls. If you want to skip ahead to learn how to record a clip, go to page 40. Skip to page 42 to read about playing a clip.

360 Systems has designed the graphic user interface as a convenient way to manage Image Server operations. With it, you can control basic operations such as recording and playout. You may also set up video and audio formats, assign remote control channels to video ports, and set up many other aspects of the machine.

All GUI software is pre-installed on the Image Server. It is also provided on the Image Server software installation CD-ROM. The GUI is operated with a keyboard, mouse, and monitor connected to the Image Server rear panel. Attach these devices only when power is turned OFF.

The Image Server Desktop

The Image Server desktop is similar to many computer system graphic interfaces. There is a task bar and start menu at the bottom of the screen. The Image Server desktop is always running while the machine is on. Use the Start menu button to launch applications, manage the system, or to shutdown the server.

Launching the Graphic User Interface

The GUI appears automatically during boot up. If On-Screen has been closed, click Start, then Image Server GUI to re-launch the GUI. It will then appear and fill the screen. The window

can then be moved, minimized, or closed as desired.

Shutting Down Image Server

Click Start, then Shutdown, then either Shutdown to begin an orderly shutdown, or Full Restart to do an orderly shutdown and Restart.

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

In the event that the system has stopped responding to commands and will not reset by pressing the front panel button (no beep is heard), press and hold the button for about 4 seconds to force a power down. Wait 5 seconds, and then the system may be restarted with another press of this button.

DO NOT use the rear panel power supply switch to shutdown the Image Server. Doing so may cause loss of unsaved data, and may require the RAID array to re-synchronize – a process

Basic Operations = 27

that could take several hours. Shutdown the system only by momentarily pressing the front panel power button, or through the GUI.

Keyboard Shortcuts

Most operations the graphic user interface can be performed using keyboard shortcuts. See the list of keyboard shortcuts in Appendix C.

On-Screen Main Menu Bar

The main menu bar contains the following headings and sub-menus. Each menu choice is explained in detail in a later section.

File Transport Configure Window Help

Exit Channel 1 > System… Cascade About Channel 2 > Options… Tile Channel 3 > Date/Time… Close All Channel 1… Clip List Channel 2… Channel 3…

Figure 4: Graphic User Interface with Clip Transport Windows

28 = Basic Operations

File

The File menu provides access to the Exit command.

Exit

Exits the GUI.

Transport

Select a video channel from the dropdown menu, then select Clip… or Playlist… to bring up the GUI control panel for that channel.

Clip

Open this window to play, edit, and perform file operations on individual clips. A full set of

transport controls are available in this mode.

Playlist

Build, edit, manage and play playlists. These operations are described in detail in the

Playlist chapter.

Configuring the Image Server

All user-configurable aspects of the Image Server are grouped below this menu.

System

Open this dialog window to configure general control and sync parameters, such as GPI,

sync, time code, and video standard. See System Configuration on page 75 for more

information.

Date/Time

Open this dialog window to set the Image Server’s internal system date and time. This

information will be used to time stamp the data files of new recordings.

Channels

Select a video channel from this dropdown menu to configure channel-specific audio, video,

and time code parameters. For more information about changing channel setups, see

Channel Configuration on page 82.

Window Arrangement

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

another window.

Basic Operations = 29

Cascade

Arranges all open windows so that they are overlapping, but offset. This choice is especially

useful with small monitors or low-resolution monitors.

Tile

Arranges all open windows so that each is fully visible at the same time. This choice is

especially useful with larger monitors.

Close All

Closes all open windows. Note: Transport windows must be in the idle state to close.

Clip List

Opens a window containing all available clips on the Image Server. When in Playlist mode,

with the Edit Box checked, files may be dragged and dropped from Clip List window into the

Playlist window.

About

Displays the Image Server software version.

30 = Basic Operations

Clip Transport Window

The graphic user interface is used to control transport operations such as play, stop, record, and basic head and tail trimming. These functions are found in the Clip Transport window for each channel. Channel 1 is both a Record and Play channel, while channels 2 and 3 are playout only. Each transport window has its own file menu, which is used to locate and play existing clips, or to create new clips. (Refer to Figure 5, below.) The graphical layout is similar for each channel, except that only Channel 1 also contains Record and E-E buttons.

From the main menu bar, select Transport, then select the channel number to be controlled. From the dropdown menu, select Clip or Playlist. Up to three Channel Transport Windows may be opened at once, one per server channel. The Window menu may be used to arrange the channel windows on the screen. Windows may also be arranged manually by using the mouse and standard window sizing controls.

The server will establish a connection to control the channel when its channel window is opened. A message, “Connected to host” should appear in the bottom status bar of the main window. If the Image Server program has not started because the system is busy, the message “Connection to Host Refused” will appear. This is usually a temporary condition that will resolve itself without intervention.

Each Clip Transport window includes a main menu bar, status bar, current clip name, a large current time code display, and the standard transport controls PLAY, STOP, FAST FORWARD, REWIND, LOOP, EJECT and a shuttle slider. Channel 1 also provides REC and E-E.

A number of direct-action buttons are also provided: Go To Head Point (|<- ), Go To Tail Point (->| ), JOG+ and JOG-. An edit region provides Mark In and Mark Out entry buttons, and time code displays reflecting these positions. Review Clip (|<-->|) and Review Out (->|) buttons provide a means to audition an entire edited clip, or just its ending.

Figure 5: Channel Transport Window

Menus

The following headings describe each clip window File menu:

Basic Operations = 31

File

The File menu provides six file-management choices. Columns can be sorted in ascending or descending order by clicking the column header bar to toggle the setting.

New

The recording process begins with naming the new clip. The New menu choice opens a dialog box in which a new clip may be named (Figure 4). Clip names can include any alphanumeric ASCII character, up to 32 characters.

Note: File naming is case sensitive. Upper case letters sort before lower case. The name FILE sorts in the order shown, based on differing capitalization: FILE, File, fiLe, and file.

The file dialog box includes an advisory message labeled PERCENT DISK FULL. When this figure becomes high, it is wise to consider deleting unnecessary files from the drive.

After entering a clip name, choose Create to create a new clip file. The Image Server will place itself in Record-Ready mode. If the server was previously in the Play-Ready mode, a brief pause will occur. The channel status message will report “Ready” and the REC button will become functional.

Refer to the following main section titled Recording for more information on setting up and making recordings.

Open

In the Play-Ready mode, the Open command presents a window from which a clip may be selected (Figure 7). A new selection closes the previously open clip, and the newly selected clip becomes ready for playout or trimming.

Refer to the following main section titled Playing a Clip for more information on that subject.

32 = Basic Operations

Figure 6: File Dialog Box

Column headings in the file dialog box are: Title, Duration, Profile, Mb/s, GOP, and Tracks. Click on the column heading to sort the list by that column. Click on the selected heading again to reverse the sort order.

Most headings are self-explanatory. GOP is Group of Pictures length in frames. If the GOP listing is 1, then the clip has only one frame per GOP (I-frame only). The Tracks column lists the type of tracks associated with each clip. Clips may have any of the following track attributes, depending on how they were recorded.

Track Attribute Recorded Track

V Video A 1/2 Audio Tracks 1 & 2 A 3/4 Audio Tracks 3 & 4

CC Closed Caption

Figure 7: Selecting a Clip to Open

Save

The Save command saves a clip, including any new head trim or tail trim settings associated with it. Any operation, such as Exit, that would cause new edits to be discarded will prompt the user to confirm a save of those trims.

Basic Operations = 33

Save As

A region defined by Mark-In and Mark-Out may be saved as a new clip with a unique name. Use the Save As button for this purpose. A dialog box will appear with a prompt to enter a clip name. After entering the name, click Save As again to save the clip with a new name. When using Save As it is a good practice to give new sub-clips a name related to the original.

A clip consists of audio/video data and related attributes. The attributes include the current starting and ending points – the In and Out edit points.

When a copy of a clip is made using the Save As feature, only the In and Out edit points are actually copied to the new clip. The base audio/video data is shared among all copies. In this way, each copy may have different In/Out Points without using additional disk space to duplicate the audio/video data. Additionally, the In and Out Points can be adjusted later to any position within the original recorded material.

Clips created with the Save As feature are noted in the File List as having a duration equal to their play time, as defined by the In and Out-Marks. The sum of these durations may far exceed the anticipated recording time available on the disk array. However, these “virtual files” take no disk space. Refer to the Percent Disk Full and Time Remaining estimation in the File > New… dialog box, or at the bottom right of the main application window. The Record Time Remaining estimate is based primarily on the current record configuration bit rate, the number of audio tracks selected, and the available disk space.

Another important concept is that there is no parent-child relationship among clips. The original clip name may be deleted without affecting any clip created by using Save As. Renaming clips will never cause the Image Server to lose track of its relationship to the original recorded data. The original recording will remain on the disk as long as there is at least one clip file pointing to it. The original recording will be automatically deleted when the last clip associated with it is deleted. Deleting all related clips is the only way to free disk space.

Rename Rename is a drop-down selection under File, allowing a new or more useful name to

be applied to an existing clip (Figure 8). Select Rename, and then within the window, select the file to be renamed. Type a new name in the Rename window, then click the Rename button. The old file name will be replaced with the new one.

34 = Basic Operations

Figure 8: Renaming a Clip

Delete

One or more files may be deleted at once with the Delete command. There are four ways to tag files for deletion:

Using the left mouse button highlight a file in the Files window, then press the Delete

key.

Select a file to be deleted using the left mouse button. While holding the mouse button

down, drag the mouse through other sequential files, highlighting all for deletion. Then press Delete.

Select the first file in a sequential list of files to be deleted. Press and hold the Shift key,

then click on the last file in the list to be deleted. The selected list will appear highlighted and all may be deleted with a single stroke of the Delete key.

While holding the Control (Ctrl) key down, click to select any number of files (in any

order) to be tagged for deletion, then press Delete. Note: The Ctrl key is a toggle selector, and may be used to de-select files that were accidentally highlighted. This is also useful in combination with the Shift key. A large block may be highlighted using the Shift key, then use the Ctrl key and mouse to de-select individual files from within the highlighted list. The Ctrl key may also be used to add additional files to the block created with the Shift selection method.

Exit

Exit will close the current Channel window. On exiting, the user will be prompted to save a recording if the file or its edits are new. Exit is grayed-out when Record or Edit operations are currently in progress.

The Status Bar

A status bar appears at the bottom of the window that provides system information to the user including GENLOCK, INPUT VIDEO DETECTED, and TIME REMAINING—PERCENT FULL. Messages such as CONNECTED TO HOST or CONNECTION TO HOST REFUSED are also displayed to help diagnose problems.

Basic Operations = 35

Transport Controls

The clip window button functions are common to both recording and playing a clip. This section introduces the buttons by function. See Recording on page 40, and Playing a Clip on page 42 for relevant procedures.

Serial Control

Select the Serial Control check box to control the channel through the serial control ports (VDCP, P2, or Odetics protocol). The GUI can take control of a channel at any time by de selecting the Serial Control check box. Return control to the remote controller by re- checking Serial Control. If a remote controller is operating on the channel, de-selecting Serial Control will allow the GUI to assume control of the channel and remote commands will be ignored. Closing the channel window saves the Serial Control setting in the last- selected state.

NOTE 1: When the Channel is under Serial Control, the Transport window will continue

to display current activity.

NOTE 2: Some remote controllers may need to be reinitialized to restore proper operation

after Serial Control released then reselected.

Current Time Code Display

A large Time Code display indicates the current position in the active clip, measured from the Mark In point. When a clip is loaded to play, it will be cued at the Mark In point, which may also be the SOM if no Mark In point has been set.

If Edit mode is entered, the clip will cue to the SOM. The time code display then shows the current position, measured from the SOM.

Current Clip Name

This window, below the main Time Code Display, shows the name of the currently loaded clip.

Channel Status Display

Located next to the clip name window, the Status Display reports the current state of the transport: Stopped, Playing, Ready, Recording, Variplay, Busy, Cueing, Still, and Idle.

Record Button

The Record function is available only on Channel 1. It is disabled in Play mode. The Record button becomes active after a new clip has been named under the File>New dialog. Click on REC to initiate a recording. The button is illuminated red when recording.

A brief pause will occur when Channel 1 is switched between Play-Ready and Record-Ready modes. The status display will report “Ready” when the new mode is available.

NOTE 1: An external genlock signal must be connected to the server to make recordings. NOTE 2: The maximum recording time is about 12 hours. The Image Server will stop

recording and save the file at that time.

36 = Basic Operations

Play Button

The Play function becomes available after a clip has been loaded for playback. The Play button initiates playback at 1x speed.

Looping

A LOOP button appears in each channel transport window. This alternate-action button causes a clip to repeat continuously. Loop is a feature that can be turned ON or OFF at any time. It can be left ON during off-speed play or editing without any effect. Loop only works when the button is ON and the clip plays at 1x for at least 10 frames before the Out Point. Playing a loop must be initiated with the PLAY button.

Disengaging LOOP while a clip is playing will let it play to its end point, then stop. Use the STOP button to stop the clip immediately.

Loop can be very useful when doing voice-overs, dialog dubbing, creating bugs, or logo animations. Loops of scenes with similar-looking beginnings and endings can be edited to appear nearly seamless.

Eject Button

Eject unloads a clip. Playback, recording, or any other transport operation is terminated. Video will go to black. The clip is cleared from the channel. It is not necessary to eject a clip before loading another.

Stop Button (Still)

Stop pauses the current clip during Play, Fast-Forward, or Rewind. Video appears as a still frame. Click Play, FF, Rew, Jog, GoTo, or Shuttle to continue from the current position.

E-E Mode

This button appears only in the Channel 1 Record/Play window. Prior to recording, it is useful to monitor a signal to be recorded, but from the server’s output. The term “E-E” (E-toE) refers to an electrical path through the server, from input to output connector, without going to disk. E-E Mode toggles automatically as described below, but can also be switched manually at any time.

When a new clip is created for recording, the E-E input monitor is automatically switched ON. When a clip is opened for play on Channel 1, E-E monitoring is automatically switched OFF.

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

When E-E is ON, the input video signal is routed to the CVBS and SDI outputs of Channel 1. Manually toggle the E-E mode button OFF to switch the output to the disk, for conventional playback operation.

Under automation control, Auto E-E behavior is slightly different than under GUI control. The server will remain in E-E ON mode until a transport control command (Play, Stop, Jog, etc) is received. After receiving such a command, the server will remain in E-E OFF mode until the clip is ejected, a new clip is loaded, or record mode is entered. In record mode, E-E

Basic Operations = 37

mode is ON. As with GUI operation, automation controllers may send E-E ON and E-E OFF commands to override the automatic operation.

Fast Forward / Rewind Buttons

Fast Forward and Rewind buttons move the transport at high speed in the chosen direction. Four speed choices are available in each direction. Click the button repeatedly for: 4x, 16x, 64x, and 128x. Audio does not play at these speeds.

Shuttle

The Shuttle control is a slider bar where the center detent represents 0 speed, or Still. The right and left extents of the slider represent ±2x maximums. There are intermediate detents in each direction, representing a linear scale with 0.1x increments. A display next to the slider shows the numerical speed value.

This control plays the current clip in varispeed mode from 0 to ±2x (including a detent at ±1x). Because the shuttle control uses varispeed algorithms, even 1x varispeed may appear to occasionally skip frames.

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

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

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

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

arrow) and click the left mouse button to increment the speed control. The transport will run in the selected direction at the selected speed without holding the mouse button down. The cursor may now be moved over the Stop button to wait for the desired point.

• When using a scroll mouse, position the cursor over the slider scale and rotate the wheel

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

Jog Buttons

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

GoTo Buttons

In Edit mode, click the arrows ( |<, >| ) to go to the next trim point (Mark In or Mark Out) in the selected direction. An additional click in the selected direction will go to SOM or EOM.

In Play mode, click |< or >| to go to Mark In and Mark Out points within the clip.

Keyboard Shortcuts

Many transport control and edit related functions can be performed by keyboard commands. A complete list of these appears in Appendix C.

38 = Basic Operations

Recording

Video recordings are made on the Image Server using the Channel 1 section of the graphic user interface, or an external automation system. Channel 1 can also be used for playback when not recording.

Setting up to Record

Image Servers were designed for use in genlocked facilities. Both the server and video sources feeding it must be referenced to a common sync reference. This signal should conform to RS170 (composite video, black). When a genlocked source is not available, as in the case of satellite receivers or non-professional tape machines, a frame synchronizer can be used to create a synchronous source.1 Alternatively, the video output of a stable source can be connected to a distribution amplifier and applied both to the server genlock input and to its video input.

Several steps must be taken before making a recording on the Image Server:

1. A genlock signal must be applied to the rear panel Genlock connector. The server will not

enter record mode if it does not detect the presence of a genlock signal. The genlock input has a fixed 75-ohm termination. Do not add another termination at any point on the genlock cable.

2. The external genlock signal must be selected as the sync reference, using the On-Screen

user interface.

A. When working from the Serial Inputs, check the box marked SERIAL CONTROL. B. Eject any clip in Channel 1 and verify that the status window displays IDLE. C. From the main menu bar select CONFIGURE>SYSTEM. D. Select GENLOCK as the sync source. E. Click APPLY followed by OK. The Configure window will close. F. Check that the front panel GENLOCK LED is now illuminated.

Note: The INTERNAL sync reference setting (a crystal) can be used for playback, but not for recording.

3. A genlock signal must also be connected to equipment originating the video signal to be

recorded on the Image Server. (See introductory paragraph of this section if there is no provision for a genlock signal.)

Video frame synchronizers are available from a number of manufacturers from about $800.

Basic Operations = 39

4. The Image Server can accept a video signal at either its composite video input, or its serial

digital (SDI) input. Verify that the input to be used is currently active. This selection is performed from the Configuration option on the Main Menu bar.

A. Select CONFIGURE > CHANNEL 1… . B. On the Configuration screen that appears, select COMPOSITE or SDI. C. Click on APPLY or OK to confirm the selection and close the window.

5. The Image Server records either two or four audio tracks according to a selection made in

the Channel 1 Configuration window. When a selection is made it will be saved for future recordings.

A. Select CONFIGURE > CHANNEL 1… . B. On the Configuration screen that appears, select AUDIO 1-2, and/or AUDIO 3-4, or none if you do not wish to include an audio track. C. Click on APPLY or OK to confirm the selection and close the window.

6. The Channel 1 configuration screen provides a number of other choices you may also wish

to consider before making a recording. These include:

A. Select CONFIGURE > CHANNEL 1… . B. On the Configuration screen that appears, select CVBS / Discrete Audio, or SDI / Discrete Audio, or SDI / Embedded Audio. C. Click on APPLY or OK to confirm the selection and close the window.

These topics are covered in detail in the System Configuration chapter of this book.

Making a Recording

When the steps outlined in “Setting up for Recording” (above) have been done, you are ready to record. Channel 1 can be used for recording or playback, but not both at the same time. Before making a recording, channel 1 must first be placed in the Record Ready mode, which takes two seconds. Once ready, any number of recordings can be made with no further delays.

Perform the following steps to enter Record Ready and make a recording:

1. When working from the On-Screen user interface, un-check the box marked Serial Control.

When using an automation controller or other RS-422 external controller, check the Serial Control box.

2. Open the Channel 1 transport window. From the main menu bar, click

TRANSPORT>CHANNEL 1, followed by CLIP. This window contains all controls needed to make a recording.

3. From the Channel 1 transport window click FILE>NEW. A dialog box will open

prompting you to name the new recording before making it. In the lower window, enter the name you wish to give it, using up to 32 characters. Spaces may be used; however, characters other than upper or lower case letters and numbers (i.e. @#$%&*) may not be used. A list of existing clips will appear in the large window, and can be used as a name reference when creating new clip names.

40 = Basic Operations

Figure 9: File Dialog Box

4. After a brief pause, the time code digits will appear and the server is in Record Ready

mode. A recording can be started without further delay.

5. Click the RECORD button. It will turn red while recording.

6. Click STOP when complete.

7. The server will remain in Record Ready mode, and additional recordings can be made

immediately by following steps 3 through 6.

If the server is available for use as an ingest station, two methods are available for auditioning a new recording:

• Channel 1 can play the recording immediately after it is made, but not during the recording

process. This approach is valuable if Channels 2 and 3 are in use for another purpose.

• If Channel 2 or 3 is available, it can be used to play the recording while it is being made. A

short delay is required before a clip being recorded becomes available for playout. Notes: The maximum recording time for clips is about 12 hours. The Image Server will stop recording

and save the file at that time. If an error that would corrupt the clip is detected during recording, the Image Server will

terminate the recording operation. The clip will be saved, and will contain all material up to the point of corruption.

Do not change the record configuration (bit rate, GOP structure, number of audio channels, etc) after a new clip is named and ready to record. The configuration changes will NOT be applied to the cued recording. Set up the record configuration before naming the recording.

Basic Operations = 41

Playing a Clip

Clips can be played on any of the three channels of the Image Server , except that when Channel 1 is used for recording, it is not also available for playback.

Setting up for Playback

The Image Server was designed primarily for use in genlocked broadcast facilities. Both the server and video equipment following it should be referenced to a common genlock source. This signal should conform to RS-170 (composite video, black). However, if the server is being used for playback in a non-genlocked facility, its internal sync reference may be selected.

Perform the following steps before playing clips from the Image Server:

1. If a genlock signal is distributed through the facility, it should also be connected to the

server’s rear panel genlock connector. This input has a fixed 75-ohm termination. Do not

add another termination at any point on the genlock cable.

2. If an external genlock signal is available, it should be selected as the server sync reference,

using the graphic user interface.

A. When working from the GUI, un-check the box marked SERIAL CONTROL.

B. Eject any clip in Channel 1 and verify that the status windows displays IDLE.

C. From the main menu bar select CONFIGURE >SYSTEM.

D. Select GENLOCK as the sync source.

E. Click APPLY followed by OK. The Configure window will close.

F. Check that the front panel GENLOCK LED is now illuminated.

3. If the server is installed in a facility where no genlock signal is available, the Internal Sync

reference setting can be used for playback without genlock. Follow the steps in item #2

above, but select INTERNAL instead of GENLOCK. In this case the front panel GENLOCK

LED will not illuminate. Note that recording is not possible using the internal crystal as a

sync reference.

Playing a Clip

When the steps outlined above in “Setting up for Playback” have been done, you are ready to play stored video clips.

1. When working from the serial interface or automation controller, check the box marked

SERIAL CONTROL.

2. Open a Channel transport window. From the main menu bar, click

TRANSPORT>CHANNEL 1, followed by CLIP. This window contains all controls needed

to play a clip.

3. From a Channel transport window click FILE>OPEN. A dialog box will open containing a

list of existing clips. Click on the desired clip name, followed by OPEN.

4. The dialog box will close, and the channel transport window will show the selected clip

name and running time.

42 = Basic Operations

Figure 10: Selecting a Clip to Open

5. Click PLAY to play the clip.

6. Click STOP at any time.

7. Additional clips can be played by following steps 3 through 5. Additional channel transport windows can be opened, and multiple clips can be played at the

same time.

Basic Operations = 43

Editing a Clip

The edit controls are activated with the Edit check box. This region contains a number of buttons that define the beginning and end of a selected region, plus their associated time code displays.

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

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

Edit-while-Recording

While clips may be edited after recording is complete, it is often desirable to create sub-clips while the recording is still in progress. This is the preferred way to get sports highlights, for example.

To do this, open the recording on either Channel 2 or 3 by selecting the clip name from the File>Open menu (Note that recordings must be 10 seconds long before they appear in the clip list).

Use the transport controls to select and mark the In- and Out-Points, as desired. Without un-checking Edit, select File>Save As, enter a new clip name, and click Enter. A new

clip is created that will play only from the In-Point to the Out Point. This clip can now be played on the third channel, or assembled into a playlist.

Now use the transport controls to locate the next desired In- and Out-Points and repeat the Save As command as many times as desired.

As noted above, it is usually easier to leave the edit channel in Edit mode while you plan to make multiple “Saved As” clips. If you de-select Edit, you will be given a choice to save or discard the edit points. Remember that you will be saving the edits to the file that is currently being recorded.

Mark In Button

Sets the current time code value into the Mark In point time display. The Mark In button can

capture a time code value from the clip when it is still, or on-the-fly.

Mark In Display

Displays the time code of the Mark In point. When no Mark In point has been set manually,

this displays the default SOM time code (00:00:00:00). Trim points will be automatically

rounded down to the nearest GOP boundary when edits are saved.

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

44 = Basic Operations

• Trim Mark In point from the keyboard: Use the mouse or keyboard arrows to move

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

• Trim Mark In point with up/down arrows: Use the mouse or keyboard arrows to move

between fields. When a field is highlighted, increment the up/down arrows (spin wheels) to change a numeric value.

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

from the clip.

Mark Out Button

Sets the current time code value into the Mark Out point time display. The Mark Out

button can capture a time code value from the clip when it is still, or on-the-fly.

Mark Out Display

Displays the Mark Out point time code. When no Mark Out point has been set manually,

this displays the default EOM time code (00:00:00:00).

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

• Trim Mark Out point from the keyboard: Use the mouse or keyboard arrows to move

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

• Trim Mark Out point with up/down arrows: Use the mouse or keyboard arrows to move

between fields. When a field is highlighted, increment the up/down arrows (spinwheels) to change a numeric value.

• Whether or not a clip is still or playing, press Mark Out to capture a time code value

from the clip.

Duration Display

Displays the total running time (TRT) of the current clip. For example, if the first frame of the

clip is 00:00:00:00 and last frame displayed at the end is 00:00:01:15, the reported duration

will be 00:00:01:16. The difference between the time code of the last frame and duration is

accounted for because this calculation is zero-based, and both the first and last frames play,

so both are counted when calculating duration.

With NTSC drop-frame time code, the displayed duration may not be the exact numerical

value of ((Trim Out – Trim In) + 1) due to the discontinuities in the drop-frame time line.

Review Clip Button

The Review Clip button (|<–>|) cues the clip to the Mark In point (or SOM, if no Mark In

point exists) and begins playback. Review Clip will stop at the Mark Out point. The Mark

Out point will be displayed in Still mode.

The Review Clip button may be used to check the Mark In point without playing all the way

through the clip. After Review Clip is pressed and play begins, all of the standard transport

buttons are available for use.

Basic Operations = 45

Review Out Button

The Review Out button ( –>| ) may be used to audition the Mark Out point without playing

all the way through the clip. It will cue the clip to three seconds before the Mark Out point

(or EOM, if no Mark Out Point exists) and then begin playback. Review Out will stop at the

Mark Out Point.

After Review Out commences, all of the standard transport buttons are available for use.

Time Code Display of Edited Clips

The GUI displays absolute time when in edit mode, and elapsed time, relative to the head

point, once the edit has been saved.

46 = Basic Operations

Embedded Audio (Option)

Introduction

The Embedded Audio option for Image Servers is available as a factory-installed option, or

as an update for certain models of Image Server already in service. Embedded audio is based on SMPTE 272M-A. Key features include:

• Synchronous 20-bit audio at a 48K sample rate. Non-synchronous audio and other sampling

rates are not supported.

• While up to 16 channels of audio may be present in an SDI stream (arranged in 4 groups of 4

channels), the Image Server records and plays back only Group 1 audio channels (channels 1-4).

• In E-E mode, all embedded audio will pass through the Image Server unaltered.

• The user can select audio to record from either a +4 analog, AES/EBU digital, or embedded

audio source. Mix-and-match among inputs is not supported.

• Embedded audio is always included in the SDI stream on playback, and audio will

simultaneously appear on the AES/EBU or analog audio outputs, as selected by the audio card option jumpers. When analog audio is selected, only channels 1 & 2 will be available at the output.

• User bits in the SDI embedded audio stream are not supported.

Setup

A software key is required to enable the Embedded Audio option. When purchased as a

factory installed option, the Image Server will ship with the key already entered and the Embedded Audio option enabled. It will also include a certificate that contains the unique key code used to enable Embedded Audio. Store this document in a safe location for future use.

If you have purchased Embedded Audio as an add-on to an existing Image Server, or if you

need to re-enter the key code for any reason, use the following instructions to enable Embedded Audio.

From the main Image Server GUI window, click on Configure > Options…

Embedded Audio = 47

The following screen will appear:

Figure 11: Embedded Audio Configuration Window

• Type the option key number supplied by 360 Systems into the Enter New Key text box.

• Click on ‘OK.’

• From the main GUI window, select START -> SHUTDOWN -> FULL RESTART to reset the

Image Server.

Embedded Audio is now enabled.

48 = Embedded Audio

Configuration

From the GUI window, click on Configure > Channel 1… . The Channel Configuration

window will appear. Use this window to configure Embedded Audio.

Figure 12: Channel Configuration Window

Input Source

Three buttons select the input source for video and audio. These are:

• CVBS/Discrete Audio (composite video with AES/EBU or analog audio inputs)

• SDI/Discrete Audio (serial digital video with AES/EBU or analog audio inputs)

• SDI/Embedded Audio (serial digital video with embedded audio)

The discrete audio inputs can be either: two stereo pairs (4 channels) of AES/EBU digital

audio, or one stereo pair of +4dBu analog inputs, as determined by jumpers on the audio card.

Regardless of the input selected, audio will always appear in the SDI output stream as

embedded audio, and at the discrete outputs as either AES/EBU (digital) or as +4 dBu balanced analog audio. The Image Server supports Group 1 embedded audio, which includes audio channels 1-4, 20-bit, 48 kHz, synchronous audio, as per SMPTE 272A.

Embedded Audio = 49

Audio Sample Rate Conversion

Two check-boxes are provided to engage built-in sample rate converters for either (or both)

of audio channels 1 & 2, and 3 & 4. When checked, the incoming AES/EBU audio tracks are converted to a 48K broadcast standard synchronized with video genlock.

Note: Audio sample rate conversion is not applicable for Embedded Audio and Audio Rate Conversion boxes will be grayed-out if the SDI/ Embedded audio check-box is selected, or if the XLR audio inputs are jumpered for analog audio.

50 = Embedded Audio

DV Video and Graphics

DV-format video and TARGA Graphics are standard equipment on Multi-Format Image

Servers. DV and Graphics is also available as an optional software accessory to extend the capabilities of the Image Server. These features supports playout of DV-25 files in native format, and TARGA graphics files including those with key and fill. DV and Graphics enables direct FTP import from Photoshop®, After Effects®, Final Cut Pro®, Xpress DV/Pro™, Liquid Edition and Vegas video.

With DV and Graphics, the Image Servers are able to function as both a graphics still-store

and an animation playout server. Three simultaneous outputs give it the power to combine video, graphics and animation playback. Channels 2 and 3 can be ganged to provide key-and-fill playout, while Channel 1 plays background video. The following capabilities are included:

Importing TARGA Graphics Files

The Image Server will recognize and ingest single-frame TARGA files via FTP from most network-attached graphics workstations. TARGA files have a .tga extension, and may contain an alpha (or key) channel. During transfer, the Image Server will split the TARGA file into a Fill frame, and a Key frame if it exists. These will be converted to high-resolution MPEG-2 files, one frame in length.

For example, if an original file is named Logo.tga, the MPEG-2 files created will be named Logo.mxf (a fill file) and Logo_.mxf key (note the trailing underscore “_” added to the file name of the key.) This allows the TARGA file to be used for key and fill applications.

Once a TARGA file is ingested, it exists only as an MXF MPEG-2 file. The processed file may be transferred to-and-from network-attached storage, another Image Server , or a graphics workstation, as two separate MXF MPEG-2 files.

The resolution of a TARGA image should be 720x480 for NTSC video or 720 x 576 for PAL. If the original TARGA image is not of this resolution, the Image Server will re-scale it, possibly introducing some dimensional distortion.

Animation Import

From the Image Server’s standpoint, an “animation” is a clip with a minimum length of two seconds. A separate Alpha channel may or may not be present. Any graphics workstation capable of exporting files supported by the Image Server can make transfers to it via FTP. If an alpha channel is present, the naming conventions of the Key/Fill Mode apply. Many software programs have the ability to create content compatible with the Image Server , including Final Cut Pro® 4, Avid® DV Xpress, DV/Pro, Liquid Edition, Vegas video, and Adobe® After Effects®, Premiere® and Photoshop®.

DV and Graphics = 51

FTP File Transfers

For standard FTP transfers, the Image Server will recognize the following file formats:

TARGA (.tga)

During transfer, the Image Server will split the TARGA file into a Fill frame and a Key (alpha) frame. These two frames will each be converted to MPEG-2 files, one frame in length. See “Importing TARGA Graphic Files” (above) and “Key/Fill Mode” (below) for additional information.

DV Stream (.dv)

These are ‘elementary’ DV files containing a single stream of multiplexed audio and video. The Image Server will recognize and maintain .dv extensions on DV stream files, allowing transfer of .dv files between Image Servers and graphics workstations without modification. Only audio at 48K, 16-bit is supported.

AVI Files (.avi)

An AVI file is a container that encapsulates and describes a type of interleaved audio and video. The Image Server will import Type 1 .avi files (a single stream of multiplexed audio and video) containing DV format video and 48K uncompressed audio. During ingest of .avi files, the server will convert the file into a DV stream (.dv) for storage and future transfer.

MPEG-2 (.mp2, mpg, mpeg, m2v)

The Image Server will ingest valid MPEG-2 program streams or elementary streams. The server’s ingest application will recognize a program stream that encapsulates a single MPEG-2 video stream, and up to 2 stereo pairs of 16- or 24-bit, 48kHz, uncompressed audio. 16-bit audio files will be written into a 24-bit space.

MXF - Material Exchange Format (.mxf)

Transfer of MXF files between compatible products will be the preferred method of file interchange to-and-from an Image Server. 360 Systems supports ingest and playout of MPEG-2 files based on SMPTE 377M, 378M and SMPTE 381M, Operational Patterns 1a and 1b.

Key/Fill Mode

When the “Gang to Ch2” box is selected in the Channel 3 transport control window, then a pair of key and fill channels will be ganged and played together. Transport operations on Channel 2 will control both Channel 2 and Channel 3. This allows the server to play locked, frame-accurate key and fill material (either stills or clips) on Channels 2 and 3. Only a single channel of an automation controller is needed to play both the key and the fill.

52 = DV and Graphics

Proper key and fill operation requires two clips of identical length, using the following naming convention: (the clip “myfile” is used as an example)

Fill name: myfile

Key name (Alpha): myfile_. Note the underscore at the end of the key clip. When a clip is opened/cued on Channel 2, Image Server automatically looks for another clip

with the same name, plus a trailing underscore. If the clip is found, it is loaded on Channel 3. Typically, the Channel 2 clip contains the “fill” material, while the Channel 3 clip has the “key” (or alpha) file.

An automation system, could, for example, issue a VDCP Cue command to Channel 2 for a clip called “logo”. Channel 3 would automatically be loaded with clip “logo_”. A Still or Play command sent to Channel 2 would cause both Channels 2 and 3 to display the fill and key clips, respectively.

Note that the VDCP checkbox option to “show first frame” for a Cue command is ignored for channels in ganged mode. The automation system must issue a Still command to Channel 2 to achieve this effect.

Ingesting a TARGA file via FTP automatically creates a key clip and a fill clip, each a single frame in length. For example, if file “xyz.tga” is transferred to an Image Server via FTP, then a pair of single-frame clips is created: “xyz” and “xyz_” containing the fill and key material.

Still Frames

A single-frame clip (a “still”) may be inserted into a playlist. The length of a still will appear as one frame in the clip list. When a still is encountered, the playlist will pause and hold the still image until a Play command is issued, at which point the playlist will continue to the next clip in the list. When using the GUI, the space bar (a keyboard shortcut) will also advance the playlist. Stills may be placed anywhere in a playlist. In fact, a playlist may be entirely composed of stills.

Stills are created when TARGA files are ingested. (See Page 51 for a description of TARGA file ingest.)

DV and Graphics = 53

54 = DV and Graphics

Advanced Playlisting

360 Systems’ new Advanced Playlisting software provides an extensive set of capabilities

for building, editing and playing complex sequences of program content to be played on an Image Server. Advanced Playlisting appears as on-screen windows, with a clean Graphic User Interface that makes it easy to run with no extra equipment. It’s invaluable for building commercial breaks, news rundowns, still-store and clip lists. You can create and store as many playlists as needed, each with its own unique name. For many users, Advanced Playlisting may be everything you’ll need to go to air.

Figure 13: Play List and Clip List Windows for Advanced Playlisting

Advanced Playlist Features and Benefits

Ø Drag-and-drop playlist building and editing on a graphics interface Ø Edit lists while they’re running Ø Start at any point in a list Ø Displays run time for clips, plus segment length and total remaining time Ø On-the-Fly commands for Pause, Skip, Hold, Next and Jump functions Ø Six programmable GPI output events embedded in playlist clips Ø Programmable time-of-day start for a playlist Ø Generates an As-Run Log

Advanced Playlisting = 55

Figure 14: Screen Shot of Playlist Window

The Playlist Window

Advanced Playlisting appears as an on-screen window, accessed by clicking Transport>Channel…> Playlist. It presents the following information displays, time displays, control buttons and check-boxes to the user:

1. Title Column

The title column displays all clips contained in a playlist, with the first-to-play at the top.

Clip names of up 32 characters are supported.

2. Duration Column

The clip length is displayed in hours/minutes/seconds/frames.

3. Time Remaining Column

Time Remaining indicates when a currently playing clip will finish.

4. Status Column

Status refers to what has taken place, is now taking place, or will take place with regard to

56 = Advanced Playlisting

each clip.

BLANK WHITE CLIP IS AVAILABLE TO PLAY CUEING PURPLE CLIP IS TRANSITIONING TO A CUED STATUS. MAX TRANSITION TIME IS 4 SEC. CUED YELLOW

PLAYING GREEN CLIP IS ACTUALLY PLAYING. DONE GRAY CLIP HAS PLAYED COMPLETELY, FROM FIRST FRAME TO LAST FRAME. MISSING RED CLIP WAS NOT FOUND CLIPPED GRAY CLIP BEGAN PLAYING, BUT DID NOT COMPLETE PAUSED GREEN

SKIPPED GRAY

CLIP IS READY TO PLAY ON COMPLETION OF TH E PRECEDING CLIP, OR WHEN THE

PLAYLIST STARTS, IF NOT PRESENTLY RUNNING.

CLIP HAS BEEN PAUSED. FURTHER, WHEN PAUSE IS ASSERTED THE PLAYLIST IS

NOT ADVANCING.

CLIP WAS SKIPPED, EITHER BY A NEXT OR CUE OPERATION , OR BECAUSE THE SKIP CHECKBOX WAS SELECTED.

5. Item Column

This left-most column displays sequential clip numbers within a playlist, and also a SKIP

checkbox which, when un-checked, will skip over a clip, while leaving it in the playlist.

6. GPO Column

The GPO column shows whether a general-purpose control output, (number 1 through 6) is

programmed to become active during playout of a clip. (An Image Server provides six GPI

outputs on a rear panel connector, which may be used to control switchers, character

generators or other devices.)

Time Displays, Buttons and Check-Boxes

The following buttons and check-box icons also appear in the Playlisting window:

PLAY / PAUSE (toggle) When a Playlist is stopped, PLAY will cause the currently cued clip to play from its start. When the Playlist is in PAUSE mode, PLAY will cause the Playlist to resume playing from the current location. PAUSE stops the Playlist immediately, on the current frame of a clip.

STOP/SHOW The Playlist will stop and video will go to black. The current clip will be re-cued from the beginning. When a clip is cued, the button legend changes to SHOW. Pressing it will display the first frame of the cued clip.

CUE When a Playlist is running, CUE immediately prepares a selected clip for playback. When the current clip is finished playing, the Playlist will play the Cued clip, followed by all subsequent clips. This allows the user to jump over clips. The user may also re-cue a clip that has already been played. In this case, the Playlist will restart from the selected clip, and all subsequent events will be re-played in sequence.

Advanced Playlisting = 57

While a Playlist is stopped, NEXT will prepare the next clip in the Playlist for playback. While the Playlist is running, NEXT will immediately begin playing the next clip in the Playlist. (The next clip may require several seconds to load and cue for a seamless transition.) If the next event in the Playlist is a HOLD, the NEXT command will move to the Hold event, and video will display black.

JUMP Cues a selected clip for immediate playback. This allows the user to jump over clips, and clips that have been already played can be re-cued. In this case, the Playlist will restart from the selected clip, and subsequent events will be re-played in sequence.

H (HOLD)

Inserts a HOLD event in a playlist immediately before the selected clip. The HOLD command is also available in the Playlist Item Context Menu, accessed by clicking in the playlist item window. The PLAY or JUMP command will restart a playlist after it has stopped on a HOLD line.

HOME In the event the user has scrolled a distance up or down in the List to perform some action, and then wishes to again make the currently-playing clip visible in the List View window, HOME will do this, and will also maintain the currently-playing clip within the window, if EDIT is off. If no clip is playing, then the currently-cued clip is selected.

Segment Time Remaining Window

This window displays time remaining from present until the next HOLD command in the list.

Total Time Remaining Window

This window displays the total time of all clips that remain unplayed, including the present one.

Scheduled Start Time Window

This window can display a scheduled (time of day) start time for a playlist. When armed to start or actually running, the time in this window appears in red. Click on any of the hours, minutes, seconds or frames fields to edit it. Use the left and right arrow keys to change fields.

Play On Schedule checkbox If a Scheduled Start Time has been entered, checking this box will arm it to begin at that time. This box will automatically un-check itself after a scheduled start has commenced.

Loop checkbox When checked, the Image Server will loop the entire playlist after the last clip completes. Upon un-checking, the list will play to completion and then playback will stop.

Edit checkbox Editing operations can only be performed when the Edit box has been checked. This box protects the playlist content from accidental modification. When EDIT is on, the playlist window does not automatically track the currently playing clip.

58 = Advanced Playlisting

The Clip List Window

The Clip List window displays all clips that are available on the Image Server, including title, duration, and video format. The Clip List Window is the source for all clips used to build a playlist in the adjoining Playlist window.

Figure 15: Clip List Window

Clip List Window

To open the Clip List window, click Window>Clip List on the Main Menu Bar. A clip may be dragged from the Clip List window to a position on the playlist. The following rules will be helpful when using drag-and-drop:

• Drag-and-drop only works when a Playlist is in the edit mode (EDIT checkbox is checked).

• When a clip is dropped, it will be inserted in the Playlist ABOVE the clip it was dropped

over, and will occupy the event number of that clip.

• Clips can be rearranged within a Playlist using drag-and-drop.

• Clips can also be dragged from other Playlist windows. To do this, the target Playlist must

be enabled for editing.

• Clips cannot be inserted before a clip that is scheduled to begin playing within the next

four seconds (approx).

• Drag-and-drop also works while a Playlist is running.

• To copy a clip within a Playlist, hold the Ctrl key while selecting and dragging the clip.

• Multiple non-consecutive clips can be selected by holding the Ctrl key as you click. They

will insert into the list in alphabetical order.

Advanced Playlisting = 59

• An entire range of clips can be selected by holding the Shift key and clicking two clips.

The following suggestions for advanced users apply to working in the Clip Window when only one Playlist is enabled for editing:

• Double-clicking a clip will append it to the end of a Playlist, if the Playlist’s Edit Box is

checked.

• The Enter key will append a selected clip to the end of a Playlist if its Edit Box is checked.

Programming GPI Outputs

The Image Server has six General Purpose Interface outputs, referred to as GPO 1 through GPO 6. Any of these can be programmed to go active at a predetermined time, or Offset, after the beginning of a Playlist clip. An active Duration can also be set, after which the output again goes inactive. In all cases, every output will go inactive when a clip ends. By default, a new clip contains no programmed GPI output commands.

Information on interfacing to GPI outputs will be found in Appendix A of the Image Server Operations Manual.

Figure 16: GPI Output Editor Window

To configure GPI output events for a Playlist clip:

• Open the Playlist for editing: Click the Edit check-box.

• Right click on the clip to which you wish to assign GPI output events. Select the Edit

GPO… command from the Playlist Item Context Menu. The GPO Editor window will

appear. Note that you cannot otherwise edit a Playlist while the GPO Editor window is

open.

60 = Advanced Playlisting

• Enable one or more desired GPI outputs, numbers 1 to 6, by checking its checkbox.

• Select the GPO Offset with the mouse or by using the arrow keys on the keyboard (see

GPIO Editor Keyboard Shortcuts below). The Offset is a positive time value that determines

how long after the beginning of a clip its GPI output will become active.

• Select the GPO Duration by using the mouse or the arrow keys.

• Repeat the steps above for every output to be configured. Click the Apply button to make

the changes active and close the window.

GPI Output Editor Keyboard Shortcuts

Tab Cycles the keyboard focus through all buttons and numeric windows. On the GUI

each button, or other item that can be controlled by a keyboard command, will appear surrounded by a dotted line.

Right Arrow Same as Tab, except it will also advance through individual timecode fields.

Left Arrow Same as Right Arrow, except it cycles in the opposite direction.

Up Arrow Increments the hours, minutes, seconds or frames field of a timecode window when

it has the keyboard focus.

Down Arrow Decrements the hours, minutes, seconds or frames field of a timecode window

when it has the keyboard focus.

Enter Toggles the enabled/disabled state of a GPI output. This is the equivalent of

checking or un-checking the Enabled checkbox.

Programming GPI Inputs

The Image Server also provides six programmable GPI inputs, which can be used to initiate playback of playlists, individual clips, and multiple groups of clips. Collectively, the server’s GPI inputs and outputs present a powerful and universal interface to switchers, character generators and other equipment.

Instructions for programming GPI inputs will be found in the System Configuration chapter.

Playlist Window Keyboard Shortcuts Tab Cycles the keyboard focus through all buttons and numeric fields.

C CUE E Toggle Edit checkbox H HOLD J JUMP L LOOP

N NEXT

P / Space PLAY S STOP

Advanced Playlisting = 61

T Toggle Arm Start Time checkbox HOME HOME ENTER / RETURN Invoke the Playlist Item Context Menu OPEN PLAYLIST WINDOW ALT 1, ALT 2 or ALT 3

The As-Run Log

The Image Server’s Advanced Playlisting software is able to generate a log of all files played during the execution of a playlist, within a 24-hour day. This data can be exported via Ethernet to an external computer. As-Run logs are used in management and billing to document that commercials or programs were actually played.

Enabling As-Run Logs

To turn on As-Run logs, open a Playlist window, select Options, then click on As-Run Logs. When turned on, a check mark will appear next to the As-Run log label. Once enabled, any files played by a playlist will be written to an As-Run log.

As-Run logs are available only through FTP downloads. After logging into an Image Server, select the ASRUN folder. All logs are stored in this location, and have the extension “.arl”.

Sample As-Run Log

IS-76152 as-run (Ch2:KQRS) Engr Wed Feb 02, 2005 [Wednesday PM] Pg 1 1 10:54:40 00:00:05:00 KRBE ID - Legal PLAYED OK

2 10:54:45 00:00:30:00 Cellular One – Talk Time PLAYED OK 3 10:55:15 00:00:30:00 Burger Stop – 2 for 1 PLAYED OK 4 10:55:45 00:00:15:00 Promo – Friends - Today PLAYED OK 5 10:56:00 00:00:30:00 Bank of America – Gold Years PLAYED OK 6 10:56:30 00:07:18:05 RICKI WEDNESDAY – SEG 1 PLAYED OK

As-Run Log Page Header

This section describes the format of the first line (page header):

IS-76152 as-run (Ch2:KQRS) Engr Wed Feb 02, 2005 [Wednesday PM] Pg 1

IS-76152: IS-XXXXX, where XXXXX is the unique machine ID. This is the same ID that is

used to create keys for optional software.

As-run (Ch2:KQRS): ChX is the channel number and KQRS is the name of the specific

channel, as defined in the Configuration System window.

Engr: The name of the Image Server, as defined in the Configuration System window.

Wed Mar 30, 2005: The base date to which clip times are referenced.

[Wednesday PM]: The name of the playlist

Pg 1: The page number of the printout.

62 = Advanced Playlisting

As-Run Log Body

This section describes the format of the body of an As-Run log:

2 10:54:45 00:00:3 0:00 Cellular One – Talk Time PLAYED OK

2: The line number (order) of the clip as it appears in the playlist. The same clip could have

multiple numbers as files are added or deleted.

10:54:45 The time at which the clip was played in HH:MM:SS, on a 24-hour clock.

00:00:30:00 The length of the clip in HH:MM:SS.FF, on a 24-hour clock.

Cellular One – Talk Time: The name of the clip.

PLAYED OK: The status of the played clip. Other possible status conditions are CLIPPED

(meaning less than its full length played); SKIPPED (meaning it was skipped over); and

STOPPED (meaning it was stopped during playout.

Configure System - Names

The name for a particular Image Server, and its three video channels, can be set using the

Configure>System>Names tabs of the main menu bar. Select OK or Apply after entry.

These names will appear on all subsequently generated As-Run logs.

Figure 17: Screen Shot of Name Configuration for Image Server

Advanced Playlisting = 63

FTP Transfer of As-Run Log

The As-Run logging function within Advanced Playlisting can be turned on or off. In the

Playlist window, select Options>As Run. When the playlist is run, all clips played, clipped

or skipped are logged to a text file.

The file is accessed by logging on to the Image Server’s FTP service and opening the folder

AsRun. The As-Run log contained in it can be transferred from an Image Server to another

computer using standard FTP transfer tools. The FTP window can be treated like any other

Windows Explorer window.

Using Microsoft Internet Explorer, FTP into the Image Server. A folder named “asrun” will

be listed in the Directory Contents. To copy the As-Run log to you computer, double click

on the ‘asrun’ folder.

Figure 18: Screen Shot of As-Run Folder in Image Server Directory

64 = Advanced Playlisting

As-Run logs are located in this folder, as shown below. Right-click the file to be transferred, and choose either “Copy to Folder…” or “Copy” from the drop-down menu. Windows will then prompt you to select a file folder in which to store the log. Alternative FTP programs will provide similar transfer means.

Figure 19: Screen Shot of As-Run .arl Files

As-Run Log Naming Convention

Using the file “0225.1_test3.1.arl” as an example, the As-Run naming convention is as

follows:

0225: The month and day (Feb 25) on which the playlist was opened for playout.

1: The Image Server channel on which the playlist was played.

test3: The name of the playlist.

1: The instance of the playlist. Each time you open a single playlist more than one time

in a single day, this number will automatically increment to maintain unique filenames.

arl: The file extension designating a 360 Systems Image Server As-Run log file.

Note: “.” and “_” are used as delimiters within the As-Run log file names.

Advanced Playlisting = 65

Editing a Clip

Although not a part of Advanced Playlisting, the Image Server provides accurate tools for trimming the head and tail of a clip. Trimming and playlisting together allow the Image Server to create accurate and complex rundowns. Trims do need to be performed before inserting a clip into the playlist.

The edit controls are activated with the Edit check box on each channel’s GUI window. This region contains a number of buttons that define the beginning and end of a selected region, plus their associated time code displays.