Sierra Video Sequoia Family User Manual

SIERRA VIDEO SYSTEMS

Sequoia Family Routing Switchers

User’s Manual

SIERRA VIDEO SYSTEMS

SEQUOIA FAMILY ROUTING SWITCHERS

User’s Manual

 Sierra Video Systems

P.O. Box 2462 Grass Valley, CA 95945

Tel: [phone]

Fax: [phone]

Email: [e-mail]

Version 7

Publication Date: February 2012

The information contained in this manual is subject to change by Sierra Video System

SIERRA VIDEO SYSTEMS

Table of
Contents

Introduction 1

Before You Begin 1
Regulatory Warnings & Safety Information 2

Warnings 2
Cautions 2
Cautions (continued) 3
FCC Notice 3
Warning 3
Power Supply Cords 4

North American Power Supply Cords 4

International Power Supply Cords 4
EMC Regulatory Notices 4
Delivery Damage Inspection 5
Factors Affecting Quality of Results 5

Sequoia Family Overview 6

Introduction 6

Model Suffix Designations 6
Frame Configuration 7

Video Frame Types and Sizes 7
Sequoia Series System Components 7
Router Frame Front and rear Panel 8

Processor Frame Front Panel 9

Sequoia Series Processor Frame Rear

Panel 9

Sequoia Series Processor Frame Rear

Panel 48V version 9

Installation 11

Introduction 11
Rack Mounting 11
Connecting To Video Devices 12
Connecting Peripherals 12

Control System Connections 12
Serial Control Ports 12

Control Port 1 (by default the Terminal Port) 13

Control Port 2 (by default the Host Port) 13

Control Port 3 13

Control Panels 14

GPI I/O 14
Sync Input 15
AC Power Connections 15
Names 15

Control Processor DIP Switch Settings 16

Router Crosspoint Control 17

Theory of Operation 19

Control System Overview 19

Diagnostics 25
Analog Video Signal Path Overview 26
Digital Video Signal Path Overview 27

Operation 29

Introduction 29

Control via 9-pin Connectors 29
Host Mode 30
Terminal Mode 30

Power Up 30

Communication Protocol 31

Introduction 31
Generic Protocol 32

Troubleshooting 55

Introduction 55
Power and Indicators 55
Video Signal 56
Control 57
Switching Malfunctions 58

Specifications 59

Video Specifications 59

Control Port Specifications 60

Warranty 61

CONTENTS

SIERRA VIDEO SYSTEMS

Introduction

Before You Begin

There are several terms and acronyms that you should become familiar with before reading this
manual. They are shown below.

Chapter

1

Term/Acronym Definition

Crosspoint The electronic switch that assigns one of the inputs on the

matrix crosspoint modules to an output.

Destination The output of a routing switcher connected to a device that

receives signals from the output of the switcher.

Source The signal that is connected to the input of the routing

switcher.

Input Connected to the source that provides the signal to the

switcher.

Matrix The crosspoint array of the switcher module that selects

which input is selected to an output.
Output Connects the signal to the destination device.
Protocol The command structure used on a serial bus to affect a

switch or multiple switches on the routing switcher.
Routing Switcher Consists of one or more crosspoint modules that switch

together, or sometimes independently, to connect the

desired signals through the switcher.
Serial Port The 9-pin RS232 connector that allow you to control the

switcher using a standard personal computer or other

external device. Sends control protocol commands in

ASCII.

1

SIERRA VIDEO SYSTEMS

Regulator y Warnings & Safety Information

The information in the following section provides important warnings and safety guidelines for
both the operator and service personnel. Specific warnings and cautions may be found
throughout this manual. Please read and follow the important safety precautions noting especially
those instructions relating to risk of fire, electrical shock and injury to persons.

Any instructions in this manual that require opening the equipment cover or enclosure are
intended for use by qualified service personnel only. To reduce the risk of electrical shock, do not
perform any servicing other than what is contained in the operating instructions unless you are
qualified.

Warnings

 Heed all warnings on the unit and in the operating instructions.
 Disconnect AC power before installing or removing device or servicing unit.
 Do not use this product in or near water.
 This product is grounded through the grounding conductor of the power cord. To avoid

electrical shock, plug the power cord into a properly wired receptacle before connecting
inputs or outputs.

 Route power cords and other cables so that they are not likely to be damaged, or create a

hazard.

 Dangerous voltages exist at several points in this product. To avoid personal injury, do

not touch unsafe connections and components when the power is on.

 To avoid fire hazard, use only the specified type, correct voltage, and current rating of

fuse. Always refer fuse replacement to qualified service personnel.

 Have qualified personnel perform safety checks after any completed service.
 To reduce risk of electrical shock, be certain to plug each power supply cord into a

separate branch circuit employing a separate service ground.

 If equipped with redundant power, this unit has two power cords. To reduce the risk of

electrical shock, disconnect both power cords before servicing.

 Operate only with covers and enclosure panels in place – Do Not operate this product

when covers or enclosure panels are removed.

 This is an FCC class A product. In a domestic environment, this product may cause radio

interference, in which case the user may be required to take necessary measures.

Cautions

2

 Use the proper AC voltage to supply power to the switcher. When installing equipment,

do not attach the power cord to building surfaces.

 To prevent damage to equipment when replacing fuses, locate and correct trouble that

caused the fuse to blow before applying power.

 Use only the recommended interconnect cables to connect the switcher to other frames.

INTRODUCTION

Cautions (continued)

 Follow static precautions at all times when handling the equipment.
 Leave the side, top, and bottom of the frame clear for air convection cooling and to allow

room for cabling. Slot and openings in the frame are provided for ventilation and should
not be blocked.

 Only an authorized Sierra Video Systems technician should service the switchers. Any

user who makes changes or modifications to the unit without the expressed approval of
the Sierra Video Systems will void the warranty.

 If installed in a closed or multi-unit rack assembly, the operating ambient temperature of

the rack environment may be greater than the room ambient temperature. Therefore,
consideration should be given to installing the equipment in an environment compatible
with the manufacturer’s maximum rated a mbi e n t te mperature (TMRA).

 Installation of the equipment in a rack should be such that the amount of air flow required

for safe operation of the equipment is not compromised.

 Use a shielded data cable connection between the parallel data ports and peripherals of

this equipment.

 Other connections between peripherals of this equipment may be made with low voltage

non-sheilded computer data cables.

 Network connections may consist of non-sheilded CAT 5 cable.
 Do not cover chassis ventilation slots or block enclosure openings.

FCC Notice

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

The user may find the following publication prepared by the Federal Communications Commission helpful:
“How to Identify and Resolve Radio-TV Interference Problems” (Stock number 004-000-00345-4).

Available exclusively from the Superintendent of Documents, Government Printing Office,

Washington, DC 20402 (telephone [phone]).

Warning

Changes or modifications not expressly approved by the party responsible for compliance to Part 15 of
the FCC Rules could void the user’s authority to operate the equipment.

3

SIERRA VIDEO SYSTEMS

Pow er Supply Cords

Use only power cord(s) supplied with the unit.
If power cord(s) were not supplied with the unit, select as follows:
For units installed in the USA and Canada: select a flexible, three-conductor power cord that is

UL listed and CSA certified, with individual conductor wire size of #18 AWG, and a maximum
length of 4.5 meters. The power cord terminations should be NEMA Type 5-15P (three-prong
earthing) at one end and IEC appliance inlet coupler at the other end. Any of the following types
of power cords are acceptable; SV, SVE, SVO, SVT, SVTO, SVTOO, S, SE, SO, SOO, ST, STO,
STOO, SJ, SJE, SJO, SJOO, SJT, SJTOO, SP-3, G, W.

For units installed in all other countries; select only a flexible, three-conductor po wer cord,
approved by the cognizant safety organization of your country. The power cord must be Type
HAR (Harmonized), with individual conductor wire size of 0.75 mm². The power cord terminations
should be a suitably rated earthing-type plug at one end and IEC appliance inlet coupler at the
other end. Both of the power cord terminations must carry the certification label (mark) of the
cognizant safety organization of your country.

A non-shielded power cord may be used to connect AC power to every component and peripheral
of the system.

Connect an external 16 AWG wire from earth ground to the chassis of the system as designated
by the earth ground symbol.

North American Power Supply Cords

This equipment is supplied with North American power cords with molded g rounded plug (NEMA­15P) at one end and molded grounding connector (IEC 320-C13) at the other end. Conductors
are CEE color coded, light blue(neutral), brown(line), and green/yellow(ground). Operation of the
equipment at voltages exceeding 130VAC will require power supply cords that comply with NEMA
configurations.

International Power Supply Cords

If shipped outside North America, this equipment is supplied with molded ground conne ctor (IEC
320-C13) at one end and stripped connectors (50/5mm) at the other end. Conn ections are CEE
color coded, light blue (neutral), brown (line), and green/yellow (ground). Other IEC 320-C13 type
power cords can be used if they comply with safety regulations of the country in which they are
installed.

EMC Regulatory Notices

Federal Communications Commission (FCC) Part 15 Information: This device complies with Part
15 of the FCC standard rules. Operation is subject to the following conditions:

This device may not cause harmful interference.
This device must accept any interference received including interference that may cause

undesirable operations.

4

INTRODUCTION

Delivery Damage Inspection

Carefully inspect the frame and exterior components to be sure that there has been no shipping
damage. Make sure all modules are seated correctly and have not detached during shipment.
Also, make sure the input buffer modules on the rear panel are secure.

Factors Affecting Quality of Results

There are many factors affecting the quality of results when signals are transmitted from a source
to a destination.

 Signal cables — Use only the best quality cables to avoid interference, degraded signal

quality or elevated noise levels.

 Sockets and connectors of the inputs and outputs — Use only the highest quality, since

"zero ohm" connection resistance is the target. Connectors should also match the routers
75 ohm impedance to minimize return loss.

 Amplifying circuitry — Must have quality performance when the desired end result is

high linearity, low distortion, and low noise.

 Distance between the router and devices connected to it — Plays a major role in the final

result. For long distances (over 15 meters) between sources and destinations, special
measures should be taken to avoid high frequency cable losses. These measures include
using higher quality cables and/or adding line cable equalizing amplifiers.

 Interference from neighboring electrical appliances — These can have an adverse affect

on signal quality. Balanced signals are less prone to interference, but and signal wire
should be installed away from any power lines, electric motors, transmitters, etc. to
minimize the possibility of electro-magnetic interference.

CAUTION!

Only an authorized Sierra Video Systems technician can service the switchers. Any user who
makes changes or modifications to the unit without the expressed approval of the manufacturer
will void the warranty

Use the proper AC voltage to supply power to the switcher.
Use only the recommended interconnect cables to connect the switcher to other frames.

5

SIERRA VIDEO SYSTEMS

Sequoia Family Overview

Introduction

The Sequoia Family of routers provides a high-end multi format solution for every routing
requirement. Broadcast, Post Production, Government and large-scale presentat ion customers
can take advantage of Sequoia’s ability to mix signal formats within the same frame. With 16
levels of control standard, the system controller can provide any Sierra Video System router with
complete control. Using our SCP series of programmable remote control panels along with GRIP
router setup software, engineers will have complete control of the entire routing system.

The Sequoia Family router frames have a variety of sub-assemblies and interconnecting PC
boards based on the signal format and module types present in a particular frame.

Model Suffix Designations

Model Suffix Designations

V Analog video (40 to 60 MHz bandwidth depending on specific model)
W
D SMPTE 259M-A through E serial digital video

A Analog audio
E AES/EBU Digital audio
M RS422 machine control
3216 Matrix size – in this example the router has 32 in puts and 16 outputs

Wide bandwidth analog video (120 to 250 MHZ depending on specific
model)

6

INTRODUCTION

Frame Configuration

Each frame can be configured in a wide variety of sizes. The building-block modules are
incremental, based on:

Frame size
Different crosspoint modules
Input and Output buffer modules
Flexibility in frame size, combined with an incremental module building block design, allows for a

large array of configurations that will match your requirements.

Video Frame Types and Sizes

The Sequoia Series is built on a universal 7 RU frame, which can accommodate multiple signal
types (if needed) in the same frame.

32 x 32 Analog or Digital Video or through 128 x 128 Analog Video 7 RU
256 x 256 Analog or Digital Video 18 RU
512 x 512 Analog or Digital Video 10 - 7 RU frames

Sequoia Series System Components

This User’s Manual provides installation and operation information for the Sequoia Series Matrix
Switcher. Front and Rear panel illustrations are provided in the following subsections. Take time
to familiarize yourself with the location of your switcher model features.

7

SIERRA VIDEO SYSTEMS

Router F rame Front and rear Panel

Note

The Sequoia models shown here and in the

subsequent sections are not fully populated video

matrices. In some cases, these frames may be

configured with fewer or more inputs and/or

outputs. Sequoia models also offer redundant

power supplies and redundant processors.

Consult the rear panel serial number and model

number to verify your order and product.

The system you receive is customized for the size

& type requested at time of purchase from Sierra

Video Systems.

8

INTRODUCTION

Processor Frame Front Panel

Sequoia Series Processor Frame Rear Panel

Sequoia Series Processor Frame Rear Panel 48V version

9

SIERRA VIDEO SYSTEMS

Installation

Introduction

Installation procedures are similar for all four frames covered under this manual. Exceptions, if
any, have been noted in each of the following paragraphs.

Chapter

2

Rack Mounting

Carefully inspect the frame to ensure that there has been no shipping damage. Make sure all
shipping material is removed from the router frame.

Each of the routing switchers described in this manual can be rack mounted in a standard 19"
(RU) EIA rack assembly and includes rack "ears" at the ends of the front of the frames. None of
the switcher models require spacing above or below the unit for ventilation. If ample space exists,
a 1RU spacing gap is recommended.

To rack mount any of the routing switchers, simply place the unit's rack ears against the rack rails
of the rack, and insert proper rack screws through each of the holes in the rack ears. Always rack
mount the routing switcher prior to plugging the unit into a power receptacle or attaching any
cables.

CAUTION!

The operating temperature range of the SVS Sequoia series router is 0 to 40 °C. Do not exceed the
maximum (40 °C) or minimum (0 °C) operating temperature.

If installed in a closed or multi-unit rack assembly, the operating ambient temperature of the rack
environment may be greater than the room ambient temperature. Therefore, consideration should be
given to installing the equipment in an environment compatible with the manufacturer’s maximum rated
ambient temperature (TMRA).

Installation of the equipment in a rack should be such that the amount of air flow required for safe
operation of the equipment is not compromised.

11

SIERRA VIDEO SYSTEMS

(

V

r

Connecting To Video Devices

Video input and output devices (such as monitors or recorders) may be connected to the routing
switchers through the BNC type connectors located on the back of the unit. Keep in mind that the
output signal format will be the same as the input signal.

All signal connections that use more than one cable interconnecting between devices should be
of equal timing length (example: cables between a camera and the switcher should have the
same time delay).

Unused outputs do not need to be terminated.

Connecting Peripherals

Control panels, sync inputs, and power are all connected to the rear of the processor frame. The
peripherals area may vary depending on the model size and type.

AC Power

Connection

And Fuse

Control Panel

Connectors

Looped)

Referencing

Inputs (Looped)

Control System Connections

Connectors associated with the system's internal control computer are located on the rea r of the
Processor frame.

ideo Sync

Multi-frame

interconnect

Future Use

GPI I/O Connecto

Future Use

RS-232/422 Serial

Control Connectors

The following section only pertains to the 1 RU Control Processor frame.

Serial Control Ports

The internal control computer has three serial control ports. Each has a separate purpose.

12

INSTALLATION

Control Port 1 (by default the Terminal Port)

This port can be either RS-232 or RS-422 using a 9 pin D connection. RS-232 op eration requires
the router to be configured as a DCE (Pin 2 TX, Pin 3 Rx, Pin 1, 9 GND) device with a PC being a
DTE device.

Control Port 2 (by default the Host Port)

This ports can be either RS-232 or RS-422 using a 9 pin D connection. RS-232 operation
requires the router to be configured as a DCE (Pin 2 TX, Pin 3 Rx, Pin 1, 9 GND) device with a
PC being a DTE device.

Control Port 3

This port can be either RS-422 or RS-485 using a 9 pin D connection.
Connections to the 9-pin are shown in the table below. “Transmit” and “Receive” are names used

by the Sierra Video Systems router. For connection to an external PC or other controlling device
use the opposite names.

Host & Terminal Port

Installation

Pin RS-232 RS-422

1 Ground Ground
2 Transmit Transmit (-)
3 Receive Receive (+)
4 Not used Not used
5 Not used Not used
6 Not used Not used
7 Not used Transmit (+)
8 Not Used Receive (-)
9 Ground Ground

PC RTR
2 RX 2 TX
3 TX 3 RX
5 GND 1 , 9 GND

NOTE:

To convert the 9-pin connector to an RS422 serial port, move the jumpers on JP-3 (for port 1) or JP-4 (for
port 2) as indicated by the silk screen on the control processor board.

13

SIERRA VIDEO SYSTEMS

A

Control Panels

There are four male 3-pin connectors labeled "CTL PNL RS-485" (for Control Panel) on the back
of the processor frame. Each Sierra Video Systems control panel has two connectors. The
connectors are in parallel for daisy chaining multiple control panels.

If you make your own interconnect cables, Pin 2 is ground. Pin 1 and Pin 3 connect pin for pin.
The maximum control panel cable length is 5,000 feet (1,524 m) when operated at 31.25K baud.

See the Control Panel manual for detailed information about control panels.

GPI I/O

The 25 pin D connector on the rear of the Sequoia CPU frame provides relay contacts under
software control that can be used to indicate a failure of router frame power supplies and fans.
This document describes that functionality.

The female 25 pin D connector on the rear of the Sequoia CPU frame provides access to 5 relay
contact sets. Two of these contact sets are used to indicate failures in the router frames. Pins 8
and 7 will be connected to each other when any of the four router frame power supplies fail. A
light on the failed power supply will also extinguish to indicate the module to be replaced. Pins 1
and 2 will be connected to each other when any of the four router frame fans fail. A light on the
failed power supply module (which carries the failed fan) will also extinguish to indicate the
module to be replaced.

All relay contacts are floating relative to any ground in the router or CPU frame. No relay contact
should be more than 1500VRMS from CPU frame ground. Relay contact ratings are 0.5A @
125VAC, 2A @ 30VDC.

Pin # Connection

1 GPI-4 out N/O *Factory Configurable
2 GPI-4 out Common
3 GPI-3 out N/C Failure- Fan Power Supply # 2
4 GPI-2 out N/O Failure- Fan Power Supply # 1
5 GPI-2 out Common
6 GPI-1 out N/C Not Used
7 GPI-0 out N/O Failure- Power Supply # 1
8 GPI-0 out Common

9 GPI-4 in *Factory Configurable
10 GPI-3 in *Factory Configurable
11 GPI-2 in *Factory Configurable
12 GPI-1 in *Factory Configurable
13 GPI-0 in Close All GPI- out Contacts
14 GPI-4 out N/C *Factory Configurable
15 GPI-3 out N/O Failure- Fan Power Supply # 2
16 GPI-3 out Common
17 GPI-2 out N/C Failure- Fan Power Supply # 1
18 GPI-1 out N/O Failure- Power Supply # 2
19 GPI-1 out Common
20 GPI-0 out N/C Failure- Power Supply # 1
21 GND Ground Connection for GPI in
22 GND Ground Connection for GPI in
23 GND Ground Connection for GPI in
24 GND Ground Connection for GPI in
25 GND Ground Connection for GPI in

larm Description

* Contact the Sierra Video Systems factory for custom GPI configurations.

14

INSTALLATION

Sync Input

The “BNC” sync input is used to generate accurate vertical interval switching. If no sync is
available, the router will switch at a random point rather than in the vertical interval. There are
three BNC connectors labeled Ref 1, Ref 2, Ref 3. These are "looping" inputs. Connect either
composite sync or video with sync to any of the reference inputs. If desired, use the second BNC
to "loop" the signal to another device. If you do not use a loop through connection to another
device, the second BNC must be terminated with a 75-ohm terminator.

AC Po wer Connections

The power supply units for the Sequoia video frames are plug-in sub-assemblie s. If you only
ordered one power supply with your initial system then the second power supply slot is occupied
by a fan assembly with no power supply on it. You can add a redundant power supply to your
system a\t any time in the future. When redundant supplies are used, the two AC power cords
should be connected to separate AC fuse or circuit breaker lines to maximize the benefits of the
redundancy.

Warning!

Turn on power to the frame ONLY AFTER all video and control connections have been completed.

Names

Source, Destination, and level names can be applied using two methods. Names can be ap plied
using the GRIP program (See the GRIP manual for details on naming), or names can be applied
using the serial port (See the Generic Protocol section of this manual).

15