Technicolor - Thomson LDK 100 User Manual

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Multi-role Digital Camera Head

Operator’s Manual

3922 496 46751 St.01

Declaration of Conformity

We, Thomson Broadcast Solutions Nederland B.V., Kapittelweg 10, 4827 HG Breda, The Netherlands declare under
our sole responsibility that this product is in compliance with the following standards:
EN60065
EN55103-1
EN55103-2
following the provisions of:
a. the Safety Directives 73/23//EEC and 93/68/EEC
b. the EMC Directives 89/336/EEC and 93/68/EEC

: Safety
: EMC (Emission)
: EMC (Immunity)

FCC Class A Statement

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

Copyright

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

© Thomson Multimedia Broadcast Solutions 2002

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

Toute communication ou reproduc­tion de ce document, toute ex­ploitation ou communication de son
contenu sont interdites, sauf au­torisation expresse. Tout man­quement à cette règle est illicite et
expose son auteur au versement de
dommages et intérêts. Tous nos
droits sont réservés pour le cas de la
délivrance d'un modèle d'utilité. Sous
réserve de modification au cours de
l'évolution technique.

LDK 100 Triax

Multi-role Digital Camera Head

Operator's Manual

Contents

About this Manual ................................................. ii

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

Technology ........................................................ 1-2

Smart Card ........................................................ 1-3

Features ............................................................ 1-4

Important Precautions ........................................ 1-5

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

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

Lens ................................................................... 2-3

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

1.5-inch Viewfinder Accessories ........................ 2-6

Microphone ........................................................ 2-7

Tripod Adapter Plate .......................................... 2-8

SuperXPander .................................................... 2-9

Local Control Panel ............................................ 2-9

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

Rain and Off-use Cover .................................... 2-11

Zoom Controls ................................................. 2-11

Top Light .......................................................... 2-11

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

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

Location of Controls and Functions ............... 4-1

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

Security and Access .......................................... 4-2

Audio ................................................................. 4-3

Intercom ............................................................ 4-3

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

Viewfinder .......................................................... 4-7

Viewfinder Indicators .......................................... 4-8

Control Functions ............................................... 4-9

Shooting ........................................................... 5-1

Using the Camera .............................................. 5-2

Standard settings ............................................... 5-3

Colour Bar .......................................................... 5-4

Gain selection .................................................... 5-4

Optical filter selection ........................................ 5-4

Colour temperature selection .............................. 5-5

Auto-White Balance ........................................... 5-5

Shooting Screens ............................................... 5-6

Exposure Time ................................................... 5-6

Using the Menu System ................................... 6-1

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

Systems Menu................................................... 6-3

Appendix ......................................................... A-1

List of Abbreviations ......................................... A-2

02.12.1 Operator's Manual LDK 100 Camera Head i

About this Manual

This operator's manual is part of a complete
documentation set for the camera which also includes
a Technical Manual, and a Service Manual.

Purpose of this manual

The purpose of this manual is to present a detailed
description of how to operate the LDK 100 Multi-role
Camera Head. It provides the information necessary
to use the camera in different configurations and with
various attachments. With this manual it is possible to
discover all the operating features of the camera and
so use it to its full potential. The manual should be
used together with the camera to explore and learn
about the many sophisticated control functions
available.

Intended audience

This operator's manual can be used by inexperienced
camera operators who are new to Thomson Multimedia
Broadcast Solutions cameras as well as those who
have previous experience of operating cameras. The
guide is so designed that it can be used as an
introduction to those who are new to the camera, as a
simple procedural guide to those who wish to set-up
and start shooting immediately, and as a reference
work to be consulted as required during the long life of
the camera.

Structure of this manual

The manual is divided into six sections and an appendix:

Section 4: Location of Controls and Functions
This section shows the physical location of the controls
and connectors on the camera. These are grouped
according to their function so as to provide a quick
reference guide to the operation of a particular aspect
of the camera.

Section 5: Shooting
This section contains information on the practical use
of the camera using the viewfinder display and the
switches to control the camera.

Section 6: Operating the Menu System
Because the LDK 100 offers such a wide range of
functions, this section describes the structure of the
control system.

Appendix
The appendix contains a list of Abbreviations used in
this manual.

Camera versions

Throughout the manual [FT] refers to functions that
are only available for Frame Transfer cameras. [IT]
refers to functions that are only available for Interline
Transfer cameras.

Section 1: Introduction
This section outlines the technology used in the
LDK 100 camera and how this translates into a
practical, useable camera. It lists the main features of
the camera and also the precautions that must be
taken into account when using it.

Section 2: Assembling the Units
Section 2 provides information on the physical
assembly of the camera and on how accessories can
be used to expand the possibilities of the camera. The
mounting of accessories and packing for transport is
also explained.

Section 3: Configurations
The LDK 100 is a multi-functional camera and this
section describes the various ways that it can be
used. Information on the cables, control panels and
the control bus is also provided as is information on
the main video and audio signal paths through the
system.

ii Operator's Manual LDK 100 Camera Head 02.12.1

Section 1

Introduction

This section outlines the technology used in the LDK 100 Digital Camera Head and how this

translates into a practical, useable camera. It lists the main features of the camera and also the

precautions that must be taken into account when using it.

Contents

Technology ........................................................ 1-2

Smart Card ........................................................ 1-3

Introduction Operator's Manual LDK 100 Camera Head 1-1

Features ............................................................ 1-4

Important Precautions ........................................ 1-5

Technology

The LDK 100 camera is a multi-role digital camera
head using 2/3-inch CCD sensors. This is a flexible
camera that is equally at home in the studio or out on
location in an OB environment.

Digital Processing

The advanced digital processing of the camera is
based on 12-bit A/D converters and more than 20-bit
internal processing. Two DSPs combine all major
camera functions in the digital domain, including
knee, gamma, contour, matrix and colour correction.

The intelligent continuous automatics facility provides
automatic control of black levels and black shading.
Each sensor provides black reference signals that
are used to monitor temperature changes. This means
that continuous automatic correction is applied without
operator intervention.

The digital contour processing uses full amplitude
video RGB signals via an extended dynamic range
contour circuit.

Colorimetry is selected by means of a variable 6-point
digital matrix or via preset matrices. Digital gamma
circuits provide a wide range of standardised gamma
curves and enable soft contrast in black scenes to be
enhanced, together with hard contrast and saturated
colour in bright scenes. The matrix and gamma
sequence is software programmable for precise colour
matching.

Camera Head Versions

The camera head can be supplied in three different
versions depending on the type of sensor required.

The Frame Transfer CCD sensor version offers
superior performance and can handle highlights of up
to 600%. The 2/3-inch sensors have a high dynamic
range and high linear sensitivity over all camera lens
apertures. Frame Transfer technology ensures that
there is no lag nor smear.

The Frame Transfer DPM version uses Dynamic
Pixel Management which allows the format of the
sensors to be switched between 4:3 and 16:9 aspect
ratios at the touch of a switch without loss of horizontal
or vertical resolution. The 1000 pixels per line in both
formats ensures that there is no loss in the horizontal
viewing angle but also ensures high resolution in the
red, green and blue channels.

The Interline Transfer sensor version is a very cost­effective camcorder that still provides superior digital
signal processing.

The Interline Transfer Wide (ITW) Switchable sensor
version is fitted with switchable aspect ratio IT CCD
sensors. This version enables the format of the sensors
to be switched between 4:3 and 16:9 aspect ratios at
the touch of a switch. Aspect ratio switching to 4:3
ratio is achieved by activating two horizontal side
panels.

Film-like characteristics

The pivoting knee circuit adapts both the knee point
and the compression ratio according to the highlight
content of the picture to emulate the softly limiting S­shaped transfer characteristics of film. Digital True
Colour Knee circuitry maintains the correct hue for
compressed highlights, reproducing colours faithfully,
even overexposed skin tones.

Digital contrast circuitry provides a black stretch
function for more detail in black areas and a black
press function for improving the contrast impression
by simulating the S-curve of film.

SuperXPander

An optional SuperXpander enables the camera to be
used with large lenses so extending the camera's use
in studio and EFP situations.

1-2 Operator's Manual LDK 100 Camera Head Introduction

Smart Card

Three smart cards are delivered with each camera.
These comprise of two user cards and one owner
card.

The owner's smart card has three functions:

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

• As a storage device for four scene files.

• As a storage device for two operator files.

The owner card is unique to every camera. Owner
card and camera must have the same serial number.

The user smart card has two functions:

• As a storage device for four scene files.

• As a storage device for two operator files.

Access control

The owner card is used to set the user level. There are
four user levels present in the camera. These restrict
access, in varying degrees, to the operational controls.
The Appendix indicates which functions are available
at each user level. (The owner card also gives access
to a service level; refer to the Technical Manual for
more information about this level.)

Scene files

Both the user card and the owner card allow four
different scene files to be stored on the card. The
recall and storage of a scene file is carried out via the
Files menu of the menu system. A scene file contains
information relating to the video settings.

Operator files

Both the user card and the owner card allow two
different operator files to be stored on the card. The
recall and storage of a operator file is carried out via
the Files menu of the menu system. An operator file
contains information relating to the set-up of general
camera preferences.

Note

Only use an original Thomson camera card.

Store the owner card in a safe place.

TYPE
FACT/NC
SERIAL NR.

Use waterproof marker or pencil to fill in

COMPANY:

USER:

DATE:

SCENE FILE

1.

2.

3.

4.

OPERATOR FILE

1.

2.

OWNER CARD
3922 407 24981
5038

Printed by DocuCards, The Netherlands

Made in Holland

LDK 100

User card

Use waterproof marker or pencil to fill in

COMPANY:

USER:

DATE:

SCENE FILE

1.

2.

3.

4.

OPERATOR FILE

1.

2.

Printed by DocuCards, The Netherlands

User cardOwner card

Introduction Operator's Manual LDK 100 Camera Head 1-3

Features

• 12-bit digital processing with unique software
programmable video path.

• Superior all digital highlight handling with a wide
dynamic.

• Unique circuitry for pivoting knee and True Colour
Knee.

• Wide range of presets and variable 6-point digital
matrix assure accurate colour matching.

• Fluorescent light matrix

• Digital gamma with unique standard preset values
and highest accuracy.

• Digital contour with an extensive range of
parameters.

• Advanced contour correction includes two
automatic skin settings.

• Intelligent Continuous Automatics black levels,
black shading and video levels - no set-up time
required.

• Digital contrast with standard black stretch and
black press.

• International standard 2/3-inch lens interface.

• 4-position standard filter wheel.

• Electronic colour filter can be used for creating a
special look (warm / cold) of a scene, or for a
smooth colour temperature control around the
white balance setting.

• Smart card for personal settings and security.

• Owner card for setting user levels, and for copying
and storing control settings.

• Protected, easy-to-operate controls and switches
with read-out of all settings.

• Viewfinder status read-out of primary camera
functions.

• Clean scan feature allows capture of computer
and other monitor pictures.

• Digital RS 232 interface to PC.

Options

• Zoom control handgrip makes awkward shots
easy.

• Transport case.

• SuperXPander extends the camera's use in studio
and EFP situations.

• Smart-Touch™ gives the operator instant, one­button access to 14 predefined shooting
characteristics.

Frame Transfer version

• 3 x 2/3-inch Philips Frame Transfer CCD sensors
ensure no vertical smear.

• Dynamic range of up to 600%.

DPM version

• 3x 2/3-inch switcheable DPM sensors ensure no
vertical smear.

• DPM Frame Transfer sensors with 1000 horizontal
pixels in 4:3 and 16:9 aspect ratios, and the same
number of vertical lines in both formats. No change
in horizontal viewing angle - so no optical wide
angle convertors required.

Interline Transfer version

• 3 x 2/3-inch Interline Transfer CCD sensors.

• Dynamic range of up to 500%.

Interline Transfer Wide Switchable version

• 3x 2/3-inch Interline Transfer Wide Switchable
low smear CCD sensors.

1-4 Operator's Manual LDK 100 Camera Head Introduction

Important Precautions

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

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

Do not subject the unit to severe
shocks or vibration.

Do not expose the camera to
extremes of temperature.

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

Warnings

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

FCC Class A Statement

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

Do not allow sunlight to shine into
the viewfinder.

Avoid extreme highlights as these
can cause various kinds of optical
reflections.

Introduction Operator's Manual LDK 100 Camera Head 1-5

1-6 Operator's Manual LDK 100 Camera Head Introduction

Section 2

Assembling the Units

Section 2 provides information on the physical assembly of the camera and on how accesso-

ries can be used to expand the possibilities of the camera. The mounting of accessories and

packing for transport are also explained.

Contents

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

Lens ................................................................... 2-3

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

1.5-inch Viewfinder Accessories ........................ 2-6

Microphone ........................................................ 2-7

Tripod Adapter Plate .......................................... 2-8

Assembling the Units Operator’s Manual LDK 100 Camera Head 2-1

SuperXPander .................................................... 2-9

Local Control Panel ............................................ 2-9

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

Rain and Off-use Cover .................................... 2-11

Zoom Controls ................................................. 2-11

Top Light .......................................................... 2-11

Transport Case

Documentation

Packing inserts

Top light

Tripod Plate

It is important to protect your camera against damage
when transporting it. To do this, a transport case
(LDK 5020/00) is optionally available for the camera,
lens, viewfinder and some accessories.

The camera is packed in the transport case as shown
in the figure above. This ensures that the camera is
not damaged during transport.

Battery

Additional
Supplies

Turn the 1.5-inch viewfinder downwards so that it
does not protrude above the top of the camera.

Several foam packing inserts are provided to enable
different configurations of the camera to be packed
securely. These inserts are used to support the rear
of the camera. Make sure you use the correct foam
insert for your particular configuration.

2-2 Operator’s Manual LDK 100 Camera Head Assembling the Units

Lens

1

2

4

bts1009

5

To attach a lens to the camera head proceed as
follows:
a. Ensure that the lens locking ring 1 is in the

unlocked position - turned counterclockwise.
b. Remove the dust protection cap 2.
c. Slot the lens into the lens mount 3.
d. Turn the lens locking ring 1 clockwise to lock the

lens in place.
e. Connect the lens cable to the lens connector 4 at

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

of the camera and clip 5 located at the side. (Pull

and twist clip 5 to open it.)

Caution

3

Do not attach a lens weighting more than

5 kg to the camera without a support.

Note

Always mount the dust protection cap when the

lens is not connected to the camera.

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

Assembling the Units Operator’s Manual LDK 100 Camera Head 2-3

1.5-inch Viewfinder

Mounting the 1.5-inch viewfinder and microphone holder

2

1

5

4

3

To mount the 1.5-inch viewfinder proceed as follows:
a. Loosen locking ring 1 of viewfinder support bracket

2

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

b. Slide the viewfinder onto the viewfinder support

bracket.

c. Tighten the locking ring 1 by turning it clockwise

(as seen from rear) so that the viewfinder is
mounted securely to the support.

d. Connect the viewfinder cable to the viewfinder

connector socket 3 at the top right of the camera.

e. Slide the microphone holder 4 onto the viewfinder

and secure with the knurled screw 5.

Caution

Always fit the microphone holder 4 as it functions

as a safety stop for the viewfinder.

f. To improve the comfort of the skin contact when

using the viewfinder, fit the soft cover to the rubber
eyepiece.

2-4 Operator’s Manual LDK 100 Camera Head Assembling the Units

Positioning the 1.5-inch viewfinder

1

3

Right eye adapter

6

2

8

9

10

5

4

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

of the camera, turning the locking ring
counterclockwise moves it towards the handle.)

b. Slide the viewfinder horizontally along the rail to

the desired position.

c. Tighten the locking ring 1 by turning clockwise.

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

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

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

7

When wearing headphones it may be necessary to
move the viewfinder further to the left to obtain a more
comfortable viewing position. A right eye adapter 6 i s
supplied for this purpose. Mount the right eye adapter
as follows:
a. Remove the viewfinder from the support bracket.
b. Unscrew and remove the two screws 7 that hold

the bracket in place.

c. Attach the adapter 6 to the end of the sliding tube

8

so that it protrudes to the right (as seen from the

front) ensuring that the pins fit snugly into the slots.

d. Use the short screw 9 and the washers supplied

with the adapter to secure it to the left hole (as
seen from the front) of the sliding bar 8.

e. Attach the support bracket to the adapter ensuring

that the pins fit snugly (if necessary turn locking
ring to move it away from the adapter).

f. Use the long screw 10 supplied with the adapter and

a washer in the left screw hole to secure the

4

bracket.

g. Use one of the screws 7 and the washer removed

at the start to completely secure the bracket.

h. Remount the viewfinder.

Assembling the Units Operator’s Manual LDK 100 Camera Head 2-5