Videonics MXPro User Manual
MXPro
User Guide
STATEMENT OF WARRANTY
Videonics, Inc. warrants this product against defects in
materials or workmanship as follows:
For a period of TWO years from the date of purchase, Videonics Inc. will repair or replace the unit, at our option, without charge for parts or labor. After the period of TWO years
you must pay all parts and labor charges.
The limited warranty is extended only to the original purchaser and is valid only to consumers in the United States
and Canada. It does not cover damage or failure caused by
or attributable to Acts of God, abuse, misuse, improper or
abnormal usage, faulty installation, improper maintenance,
lightning, or other incidences of excessive voltage, or any
repairs or tampering by other than a Videonics-authorized
repair facility. It does not cover replacement of batteries or
other consumable parts, transportation costs, or damage in
transit. This warranty will become void if the serial number
or model number identification has been wholly or partially
removed or erased. Repair or replacement under the terms of
this warranty do not extend the terms of this warranty. This
warranty can not be modified by any agent of Videonics,
Inc. unless in writing and signed by an officer of Videonics,
Inc.
Should this product prove defective in workmanship or
material, the consumer's sole remedies shall be such repair
or replacement as provided by the terms of this warranty.
Under no circumstances shall Videonics, Inc. be liable for
any loss or damage, direct, consequential, or incidental, arising out of the use of or inability to use this product. Some
states do not allow limitations on how long an implied warranty lasts or the exclusions or limitations of incidental or
consequential damages, so the above limitations or exclusions may not apply to you. This warranty gives you specific
legal rights. You may also have other rights which vary from
state to state.
To obtain warranty service, call or write Videonics HelpLine
for a Return Authorization (RA) number. Please mark the RA
number clearly on the outside of the package. Include a
copy of your sales receipt, a brief description of the symptoms, your name, address, phone number and any special
shipping instructions. Then deliver or ship the product,
postage or shipping costs prepaid, to a Videonics-authorized
repair facility. For the name of the nearest repair facility,
Contact Videonics, Inc. HelpLine. See “Contacting Videonics” on page 8 for instructions.
DISCLAIMER
Television screens are simulated and subject to change without notice. This device is not to be used for the unauthorized copying of copyrighted material.
TRADEMARKS
MX-Pro, the Videonics logo, Thumbs Up, MX-1, and Videonics Video TitleMaker are trademarks or registered trademarks of Videonics, Inc. Hi8 is a trademark of Sony
Corporation. VHS is a registered trademark of JVC. Other
product and brand names might be trademarks or registered
trademarks of their respective companies and are hereby
acknowledged.
FCC Statement
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, might 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 must correct the interference at his/her
own expense.
Declaration of Conformity
Application of Council Directive(s) 73/23/EEC, 89/336/EEC
Standards to which conformity is declared EN60950, EN55022 Class A, EN50082-1
Manufacturer's Name Videonics
Manufacturer's Address
Campbell, CA 95008, USA
1370 Dell Avenue
Importer's Name
Importer's Address
Type of Equipment
Name of Equipment
Model No.
Serial No.
Year of Manufacture
Place
Date
Campbell, California, USA
Videonics GmbH
Industriestrasse 2
90765 Furth/Bay, Germany
Video Mixer
MXPro
MX-3000 PAL
1998
I, the undersinged, hereby declare that
the equipment specified above
conforms to the above
directive(s) and standard(s).
(Signature)
March 25, 1998
Parminder Gillon
(Full Name)
Test Engineer
(Position)
Notes
®
Contents
Introduction
1
Major Features •
Common Uses for MXPro •
MXPro Package Contents •
About this User Guide •
Contacting Videonics •
Quick Start
2
Quick Start Steps •
Setting Up
The Preview Screen
Running the Demo
Cutting Between Sources
Borders and Solid Color Backgrounds
Setting up a Transition
Running Transitions
Using CUT Transitions
Choosing Transitions
Using Transition Categories
Other Features
3
Installing MXPro
• 10
2
10
• 16
5
8
• 11
• 12
• 14
• 15
• 15
3
4
• 13
• 14
• 16
• 13
Basic Operations
4
Starting and Stopping MXPro •
Understanding the Keyboard •
Using the Preview Screen •
Changing the Display Configuration
Input Source Previews
Active Source Highlights
Color Selector
Transitions Menu
Selected Transition
Using CURRENT and NEXT Sources •
Selecting Sources •
Using the Video/Audio Selector •
Swapping Sources •
Simple Cuts
Swapping Between Two Sources
Working with Colors •
Identifying Colors
Using Color Backgrounds
Changing Colors and Styles
Creating Custom Colors
Using Borders •
Changing Border Styles
• 37
• 37
• 37
39
41
• 41
42
• 42
45
32
32
35
• 35
• 36
• 36
38
40
• 41
• 43
• 43
• 44
• 46
Sources and Output •
Preview and Program Monitors •
Preview Monitor
Program Monitor
Number of Monitors
Understanding MXPro Connectors •
Power Connector
Cables and Adapters •
Installation Examples •
Correlating Input Sources to MXPro Jacks
Using Headphones
VCR Selector Switches
General Notes
Live Broadcast Configuration
Post Production Configuration
Using a Microphone with MXPro •
18
19
• 19
• 19
• 19
20
• 22
23
24
• 25
• 25
• 25
• 26
• 28
30
• 25
5
Transitions
Basic Transition Concepts •
Transition Categories and Menus •
Basic Transitions Category
Edges Transitions Category
Trailing Transitions Category
Shapes Transitions Category
User Transitions Category
Changing User Transitions Menu •
Selecting Sources to Use During Transitions •
Setting the CURRENT Source
Setting the NEXT Source
Selecting Transitions •
Using the Transitions Menu
Using Transition Numbers
Adjusting Transitions •
Changing Transition Speed
Changing Transition Direction
Running Transitions •
Running Transitions Automatically
Running Transitions Manually
50
• 53
• 53
• 53
• 53
• 53
• 55
• 55
56
• 56
• 57
58
• 58
61
52
54
55
• 59
• 61
• 61
ii
6
Videonics MXPro User Guide Contents
Input Effects
Input Effects Menu •
Special Key Combinations
Using Input Effects •
B&W •
B&W Neg •
Posterize •
Flip Horizontal • 67
Mosaic • 68
Color Correct • 68
Color Neg • 69
Chroma Key • 69
Flip Vertical • 69
Strobe • 69
67
7 Functions
Demo • 72
Running a Locked Demo • 72
Display • 73
Setup • 75
Force Field Freeze • 76
GPI Out Mode • 76
Comb Filter • 76
Black Level • 76
Route • 77
Configuring MXPro • 77
Re-directing Input Signals • 80
Routing Audio through Color Channel • 81
Navigating the Route Menu • 81
Learn • 82
Compose • 82
PIPs • 82
Audio Mix • 82
Freeze • 83
Field and Frame Freezes • 83
Major Freeze Functions • 83
Freeze Examples • 84
Freeze and Transitions • 86
8 PIPs
Single PIP • 88
Background Tile • 88
Foreground Tile • 88
Using Other Effects with Single PIPs • 90
Multi-PIP • 91
Using Freeze Effect with Multi-PIPs • 92
67
67
64
66
• 65
9 Compose
Basic Composition Steps • 94
Backgrounds • 94
Foreground Tiles • 95
Creating Color Tiles and Lines • 95
Creating Moving Video Tiles • 95
Creating Still Image Tiles • 95
Manipulating Tiles • 96
Positioning Tiles • 96
Sizing Tiles • 96
Composition Rules • 97
Creating a Composed Image • 98
Playing the Composition • 99
Exiting from Compose Mode • 100
10 Chroma Key
Preparing the Background Footage • 102
Preparing the Keyed Footage • 103
Preparing the Chroma Key Footage • 103
Performing the Chroma Key • 105
Fine-Tuning Key Colors • 105
Ending Chroma Key • 105
11 Learn Mode
Learned Environments • 108
Learned Scripts • 109
Using Learn Mode • 111
Other Useful Information • 112
Aborting a Playback Session • 112
12 Working with Audio
Audio Devices You Can Use • 114
Ways You Can Control Audio • 114
Controlling Audio Transitions • 114
VIDEO/AUDIO Selector • 114
Selecting Audio Sources • 115
Ways to Use Audio • 116
Audio Accompanies Video • 116
Continuous Audio • 117
Using the Audio Mixer • 118
Audio Mixer Controls • 119
Using Background Audio • 119
Using Headphones • 120
Advanced Audio Setups • 120
Contents Videonics MXPro User Guide
iii
13 Advanced Operations
Using Titles • 122
Using Color Bars • 122
Performing Roll Edits • 123
Cutting Between Scenes • 123
A/A Roll Edits • 123
A/B Roll Edits • 124
Transitions TO and FROM Solid Colors • 125
Transitions to Modified Sources • 125
Operating in Live Environments • 126
Security Monitoring • 126
Using a GPI Device • 126
Instructions for Building a GPI Trigger • 127
Using a GPI Trigger Device • 128
Calibrating the T-BAR • 128
Resetting MXPro Factory Defaults • 129
APPENDIXES & BACK MATTER
A Transitions List
Basic Transitions • 132
Edge Transitions • 137
Trailing Transitions • 138
Shape Transitions • 139
Default User Transitions • 143
B Time Base Corrector
Dual TBC Mode • 145
Vertical Interval Data • 146
TBC Technical Information • 146
C Video Quality
Preview Image Quality • 147
Video Scaling Artifacts • 148
Freeze Quality • 148
Upside-Down Video • 148
Video Processing Artifacts • 149
D Technical Specifications
E Information for MX-1 Users
Glossary
Index
iv
Videonics MXPro User Guide Contents
LIST of TABLES
Table 1 User Guide Contents • 5
Table 2
Table 3
Table 4
Table 5
Table 6
Table 7
Table 8
Table 9
Table 10
Table 11
Table 12
Table 13
Table 14
Table 15
Table 16
Table 17
Table 18
Table 19
Videonics Contacts • 8
Default Colors and Numbers • 42
Border Styles (Defaults) • 45
Keys for Changing Border Attributes • 47
MX-1 Compatibility Hot Keys • 53
Input Effects Mode Key Combinations • 65
Main Mode Input Effects Key Combinations • 65
Setup Menu Navigation Keys • 75
Manipulating PIPs Tiles • 89
Manipulating PIPs Mask • 90
Multi-PIP Screen Configurations • 91
Selecting Mixer Channels • 119
Adjusting Audio Levels • 119
Descriptions of Basic Transitions • 133
Edge Transitions • 137
Trailing Transitions • 138
Shape Transitions • 139
MXPro Technical Specifications • 151
W
1
Introduction
elcome to MXPro , and thank you for buying Videonics products.
This chapter contains:
• Brief descriptions of major MXPro features
• Typical uses for the MXPro
• How to contact Videonics
• An inventory of package contents
• Description of the contents of this User Guide
Please take a few moments to read the material so you can take full advantage of all
MXPro benefits.
2
M
AJOR
Chapter 1 Videonics MX-Pro User Guide
F
EATURES
MXPro contains features found on most video mixers. In addition, it contains the special features described in this section.
Superb Video Quality — To ensure highest video quality, MXPro uses 10-bit (4:2:2)
video technology for Y/C applications, and 8-bit 4:2:2 for Composite applications.
Four Input Synchronized Switcher — MXPro provides four input channels. This makes
MXPro useful in live production settings where up to four cameras or other sources
might be in use. MXPro synchronizes the inputs, so picture disruptions do not occur
when switching between sources. Each channel has a composite video input, a Y/C
video input, and a set of stereo audio inputs.
Pictures-in-Pictures (PIPs) — PIP allows multiple pictures to share the screen in various
configurations. For example, one source might take the entire background while
another image appears inside a separate, smaller window, both sharing the screen at
the same time. You can use up to 16 images in a PIP configuration.
Effects Generator — Use a variety of effects to enhance a source or transition between
sources. Select from over 500 effects, including natural shapes (diamonds, stars, and so
forth), fancy edges, and borders. And, you can build your own custom menu for quick
access to those effects you use most often.
Time Base Corrector (TBC) — MXPro automatically corrects the output’s time base.
MXPro stabilizes the output signal even when the input sources are not stable.
Chroma Key — Keying replaces
parts of one picture with another,
based on their color. Here the solid
background behind Kong keys out
and subsequently gets replaced
with the picture of the bridge. The
chroma key version shows Kong
contemplating the bridge.
Frame Synchronizer and Digital Video Mixer — Mix any two input sources together
using a variety of transitions — wipes, dissolves, flips, and so forth. With the frame
synchronizer you can mix independent video signals.
Compose — MXPro provides a video painting system you can use to combine video
stills, color shapes, and moving video on one screen. You can create a screen that contains a video still of a football coach (with a surrounding red border), combined with a
moving video of the players in action on the field.
Audio Mixer — MXPro provides basic audio control. You can change the sound along
with the video, or play a constant sound while the video plays. Audio can come from a
video source or from external audio devices.
Connectivity — MXPro provides multiple video/audio outputs, including two Y/C Pro-
gram outputs, two composite Program outputs, one composite Preview output, one set
of stereo audio outputs, and a Headphone output.
Joystick — The joystick gives you fine control over color adjustments and positioning of
PIP (picture-in-picture), compose, and the chroma key cursor.
Color Correction — Apply true RGB color correction to any or all input sources. Color
correction parameters can be set separately for each channel.
Input Effects — Apply special effects such as flips, mosaics, and others to the signals
coming in from any input source.
Introduction Common Uses for MXPro
C
OMMON
U
SES
FOR
Multiple-Source Video Production — In a video production setup, you can connect one
or more video sources (VCR’s, camcorders, video disc players, cameras, title generators,
computer graphics systems, and so forth) to MXPro’s four input channels. The Program
output can then be sent to a VTR or directly to a monitor.
Single-Source Use — MXPro supports A/A roll, a method for creating interesting transi-
tions with a single source. Its digital effects (such as picture freeze, posterization, and
zooms) give added life to productions. You can use MXPro with a titler to mix and
superimpose titles. Time Base Correction improves the picture (especially when making
multiple-generation copies) by removing the jitter common to most VCR’s.
Live Video — In live production setups, MXPro processes events as they occur. Good
coverage requires seeing the events from different vantage points—which means you
need multiple input sources. MXPro gives you the ability to connect up to four sources
simultaneously. For example, at a sporting event, camera one might focus on the playing field, camera two on the team benches, camera three on the announcer, and camera four on the scoreboard. Using MXPro you can easily switch between the sources
whenever necessary.
MXP
You determine what is sent to the output. While the original inputs play, you can
switch between any of MXPro’s channels. You can use dissolves or other transitions
to go from one channel to another. You can add special effects to any channel, and
use advanced features such as compose and chroma key to enhance the production.
RO
3
Note
MXPro is not an edit controller — that is, it does not control VCR’s, camcorders, and
similar devices. You can control the sources manually, or use external edit controllers
such as those manufactured by Videonics.
4
MXP
Chapter 1 Videonics MX-Pro User Guide
RO
P
ACKAGE
C
ONTENTS
The MXPro package contains the items shown below. Check your package against the
illustration. If anything is missing, contact the dealer where you purchased MXPro for
the necessary replacements.
MXPro Unit
Power Adapter and Cord User Guide
Introduction About this User Guide
A
BOUT
THIS
U
G
SER
This User Guide contains the chapters, appendixes, and other sections shown in the
following table.
Table 1: User Guide Contents
Chapter
Chapter 1
Introduction
Chapter 2
Quick Start
Chapter 3
Installing MXPro
Chapter 4
Basic Operations
UIDE
Description
Basic overview of MXPro features,
description of package contents,
description of manual, and so forth.
Brief steps to setting up MXPro with your
equipment. Provided for people quite
familiar with connecting video
equipment.
Instructions for setting up MXPro to work
with your video equipment.
Explains most common procedures and
functions used with MXPro.
5
Chapter 5
Transitions
Chapter 6
Input Effects
Chapter 7
Functions
Chapter 8
PIPs
Chapter 9
Compose
Chapter 10
Chroma Key
Chapter 11
Learn Mode
Complete description of and instructions
for using MXPro transitions. Also see
Appendix A, Transitions List.
How to use various effects with video
input material.
Descriptions of and instructions for using
MXPro’s built-in functions.
Instructions for using the Picture-inPicture functions.
How to create composed images
consisting of rectangles, lines, still images,
and/or moving images.
Instructions for creating chroma key
images where specific colors (such as a
blue screen) can be keyed out and
replaced with a video sequence or other
image.
How to use MXPro’s Learn Mode for
“recording” your mixing steps then
playing them back.
Chapter 12
Working with Audio
Chapter 13
Advanced Operations
How to use audio sources (tapes, CD’s,
and so forth) with MXPro.
Descriptions of operations used
infrequently, but still of substantial use for
mixing video programs.
6
Chapter 1 Videonics MX-Pro User Guide
Table 1: User Guide Contents (Continued)
Chapter
Appendix A
Transitions List
Appendix B
Time Base Corrector
Appendix C
Video Quality
Appendix D
Technical Specifications
Appendix E
MXPro | MX-1 Differences
Glossary
Description
Complete list of transitions available with
MXPro, along with their assigned code
numbers and descriptions.
Explains the time-base corrector feature
built into MXPro.
Discusses issues concerning the level of
quality in videos — that is, what to expect
and what you can do to improve quality.
MXPro product specifications.
Summarizes operational differences
between MXPro and Videonics MX-1
Video Mixer.
Definitions of terms frequently used in
conjunction with MXPro and video
mixing procedures.
Index
Conventions The User Guide employs the conventions described in this section.
Tips, Notes, Cautions, and Warnings use the following formats.
Tip
A tip provides useful information for doing various tasks and procedures.
Note
Notes contain information to supplement the other information contained throughout
the guide.
CAUTION
Cautions warn that if you continue with what you are doing there is a danger of losing
information.
WARNING!
Warnings mean stop what you are doing because there is danger of losing
information and, possibly, damaging your equipment.
Standard index to topics in this manual.
Introduction About this User Guide
MXPro Buttons When referencing the various buttons (or, keys) and other controls on the MXPro key-
board, they appear in uppercase, boldface characters. For example, the keyboard contains the PLAY button and T-BAR .
In some cases you use two buttons together to perform a function. This is normally
done using the shift button in combination with some other button. A plus (+) symbol
indicates this. For example, you might be asked to enter SHIFT+PIPS . This means press
and hold down the SHIFT button, press the PIPs button, then release both.
PIPs
Sources, Channels, and
Outputs
SHIFT
The terms Source , Channel , and Output appear extensively throughout this guide. It’s
important to understand the differences between them.
A Source is a physical device, such as a VCR, that provides a video and/or audio signal.
A Channel is an internal MXPro component. The video and/or audio signal originating from a source travels along one of the channels.
7
An Output displays or records a mixed signal (such as the video on one channel, a
transition, and the video on another channel) on an output device. The output device
might be a recording VCR or a live broadcast signal.
8
Chapter 1 Videonics MX-Pro User Guide
CONTACTING VIDEONICS
Videonics provides technical and general support for all of its products. The following
table provides information for contacting us with your suggestions, questions, and
problems.
Table 2: Videonics Contacts
Department Contact Information
Corporate Headquarters 1370 Dell Avenue
Main Phone Number (408) 866-8300
Main Fax Number (408) 866-4859
Product Information (800) 338-3348
Information via E-Mail Info@Videonics.com
Technical Support (408) 370-9963
Support via E-Mail Helpline@Videonics.com
Campbell, CA 95008
Compuserve GO VIDEONICS
Compuserve ID 72662,3115
Internet World Wide Web http://www.videonics.com
International Offices Contact Videonics for your local distributor
2
Quick Start
This chapter contains brief instructions for setting up MXPro with basic equipment.
The instructions do not go into detail. If you feel comfortable connecting video and
audio equipment, you can probably get started quickly using these instructions.
If you are upgrading from the Videonics MX-1, see Appendix E, Information for MX-1
Users , for helpful information in setting up your MXPro.
Skim the instructions in this chapter. If you have any questions about any of the steps,
turn to Chapter 3, Installing MXPro , and follow the detailed instructions for setting up
your equipment.
10
Q
UICK
Chapter 2 Videonics MX-Pro User Guide
S
Setting Up
Preview Monitor
TART
S
TEPS
PREVIEW OUT
Input
Source
OUT Jacks
IN 1
IN 2
00:00
Input
Source
VIDEO IN
AUDIO IN
00:00
Output Monitor
00:00
Output Device
Note
¨ Connect a COMPOSITE-type monitor to MXPro’s PREVIEW OUT jack.
¨ Connect an Input Source (such as a VCR or camcorder) to MXPro’s IN 1 jacks.
¨ Connect a second Input Source to MXPro’s IN 2 jacks.
MXPro is set up, by default, to expect S-Video (Y/C) devices to be connected to the IN
1, IN 2, IN 3, and IN 4 input jacks. If you connect Composite devices to any of the
jacks, you must tell MXPro this fact. See “Using the Route Function” below after
completing the following steps.
¨ Connect a VCR’s VIDEO IN and AUDIO IN jacks to the OUT jacks on the MXPro rear
panel. This is the device where you record the program.
¨ Connect a television or monitor to the recording VCR according to their instruc-
tions. Having this monitor available lets you see exactly what is being recorded (or,
output).
These instructions assume a two-monitor setup. If you are using only one monitor, connect it to PREVIEW OUT.
¨ Connect the MXPro power supply to the power supply jack on the rear panel.
¨ Connect the MXPro’s power cord to a suitable outlet.
¨ Turn on all devices (the MXPro power switch is located on the right end of the unit)
and let the tapes roll.
Quick Start The Preview Screen
The Preview Screen
¨ You should see the following (with some slight differences) on the Preview screen.
NEXT Source
CURRENT Source
Transitions Menu
Note
MXPro displays small previews of the sources you have attached. The images are
scaled down both in size and frame rate and, therefore, don’t play as smoothly as they
would in a single-source video monitor image. This does not affect the quality of the
video going to the output — it is always highest quality.
11
The PREVIEW screen contains the elements you need to run transitions:
CURRENT Source — The signal currently playing on the Output monitor. MXPro
highlights the CURRENT source in Yellow (just above the preview images).
NEXT Source — The signal that will play on the Output monitor after the transition
runs. MXPro highlights the NEXT source in Green.
Transitions Menu — Rows and columns of icons representing some of the transitions
available. MXPro highlights the currently selected transition in Blue. The icons also
show the speed and direction for the selected transition.
¨ Near the upper-right corner of the Preview screen is the Color Channel. The swatch
shows samples of the current background color, border color, and border style. The
numbers represent the current selection of color codes and styles.
12
Chapter 2 Videonics MX-Pro User Guide
Using the Route
Function
This display
indicates the SVideo (Y/C) and R/L
audio connections
from IN 2 are routed
to Channel B.
The Route functions ensures that MXPro understands where your input devices are
connected on the rear panel. If you connect S-Video (Y/C) devices to the IN 1, IN 2, IN3,
and/or IN 4 jacks, re-routing is not necessary. Go on to the next section, “Running the
Demo”. Otherwise:
¨ After starting MXPro with all devices connected and turned on, press ROUTE to dis-
play the Route screen.
Press NEXT/X where X is the channel (A,
B, C, or D) TO WHICH you want to route
the signals. MXPro highlights the
channel you select.
The following instructions explain
how to change the video routing for
MUTE
channel B from the S-Video (Y/C)
connection on IN 2 to the Composite
connection on IN 2.
Running the Demo
¨ Press LEFT ARROW. Note that the S highlight (for S-Video, or Y/C) under IN 2
moves left to highlight the V (Composite Video) option.
¨ To route other inputs to different channels, press NEXT/X, where X is the channel
to which you want to route. Then repeat the preceding step.
¨ Press ROUTE again to exit from the Route screen.
The Demo gives you a quick look at some of MXPro’s important features and assortment of transitions.
¨ Press SHIFT+DEMO.
You should see the two sources alternating, with a variety of transition effects in
between.
¨ Press any key to stop the Demo whenever you want.
Quick Start Cutting Between Sources
Cutting Between Sources
¨ Press CUT/A.
A B C D COLOR
CUT
NEXT
A B C D COLOR
The light below the A button comes on and the Output monitor displays the signal
from whatever device is plugged into the inputs labeled IN 1. The yellow highlight
above preview image A tells you it is the currently active input.
¨ Press CUT/B.
The light below the B button begins flashing (indicating B is both the CURRENT and
NEXT source) and the Output monitor displays the signal from whatever device is
plugged into the inputs labeled IN 2. The yellow highlight above preview image B
tells you it is the currently active input.
When you press one of the cut buttons, the
small light below the buttons glows steadily
to indicate it is the CURRENT source.
When you press one of NEXT buttons, the
small light above that buttons blinks to
indicate it is the NEXT source.
13
¨ If you have anything plugged into IN 3 or IN 4, press CUT/C and CUT/D, respec-
tively, to display their signals.
Borders and Solid Color Backgrounds
¨ Press CUT/COLOR.
MXPro highlights the speaker, headphone, or color block above the channel indicator, but does not show the channel letter. The Output monitor shows a solid color
screen.
¨ To change the color, press BG COLOR.
Each time you press the button the color changes in the background color sample
and at the Output. Continue pressing the button until you see a color you like.
¨ You can also define a border color and style to use at the edge of most transitions
and PIPs. Press BORDER COLOR and the color around the background color sample
shows you the new choice. Press BORDER STYLE to select from different styles for
the border.
14
Chapter 2 Videonics MX-Pro User Guide
Setting up a Transition
To set up a transition you need to select the sources you want to use and the transition
you want to use when switching between them. Here’s how to transition from source A
to source B using a horizontal wipe.
¨ Press CUT/A to set A as the CURRENT source. MXPro shows a steadily glowing light
¨ Press NEXT/B to set B as the NEXT source (the one you want to see after the transi-
¨ Use the ARROW keys to highlight the Wipe transition in the Transitions Menu, as
Selected Transition
below the CUT button you press.
tion finishes running). The LED light above the button you press flashes to indicate
it is the NEXT source.
shown in the following example.
Use LEFT and RIGHT ARROW s to move the selection horizontally. Use UP and
DOWN ARROW s to move the selection vertically: or, press 2 then OK to select the
transition by number.
Running Transitions
Automatic Transitions
PLAY
Speed
The screen shows: The CURRENT source (A), the NEXT source (B), and the desired
effect (the horizontal wipe).
You can run transitions automatically or manually.
¨ Press PLAY. MXPro runs the transition at a pre-determined speed.
MXPro transitions between the two sources using the horizontal wipe transition.
Both the Preview and Output screens show the results.
At the end of the wipe, B is on the OUTPUT monitor — it has become the CURRENT
source. The yellow highlight above the preview images has changed to reflect that. Furthermore, A is now the NEXT source and the green highlight has been changed to A.
¨ To wipe back and forth between sources A and B, press PLAY repeatedly.
¨ To change the speed at which a transition runs, press the SPEED button. The Speed
indicator under the transition icon changes.
¨ Press the button again until the desired speed appears. 0 is the slowest speed, 9 is
the fastest.
¨ Try this with various speeds: Change the speed and press PLAY.
Quick Start Using CUT Transitions
Manual Transitions Use the TAKE BAR to run transitions and control their speed and direction.
¨ Set up the transition as you would normally. However, instead of pressing PLAY,
simply move the T-BAR.
The transition begins running as soon as you move the T-BAR . You can even move
back and forth by moving the T-BAR in different directions. Give it a try!
Using CUT Transitions
Most video productions use simple cuts a majority of the time. To cut between any two
sources (for example, you could cut from A to C to COLOR to D), use the CUT buttons.
There’s a quick way to cut back and forth between two sources (such as A to B to A to B)
using just the PLAY button, instead of having to alternate between two CUT buttons:
¨ Press 0 to select transition 0, a simple cut.
¨ Press PLAY again and again.
¨ A solid color screen can be used as if it were a separate source. Press the NEXT/
COLOR button and run any transition, or press CUT/COLOR.
Choosing Transitions
15
The Preview screen contains the Transitions Menu. This menu contains icons and other
information for all MXPro transitions. A blue highlight indicates the transition selected
for the next transition.
¨ Select Transitions in the following ways:
ARROW keys – Simply use the arrow keys to highlight the desired transition.
NUMBER keys – MXPro assigns a unique number to every transition. The number
appears below the transition icon on the PREVIEW screen (in the following example, the checkerboard transition is number 29). You can use the number to select a
transition. (When you select/highlight a transition in the menu, MXPro shows the
transition’s speed and direction. At this point, the transition number is no longer
visible.)
Transition Number 29
¨ Enter 106 using the number keys (press 1, then 0, then 6), then press OK to high-
light the transition icon.
MXPro replaces the current Transitions Menu and shows the one that contains the
transition you selected.
¨ Press PLAY.
16
USER BASIC EDGES TRAILING SHAPES
Chapter 2 Videonics MX-Pro User Guide
Using Transition Categories
MXPro categorizes transitions into five major groups — User, Basic, Edges, Trailing,
and Shapes. You can access any category at any time by pressing one of the Transition
Category buttons.
When you press one of the buttons, the content of the Transitions Menu (see “The Preview Screen” on page 11) changes.
¨ Press the TRAILING button. The Transitions Menu display a completely different set
of transition icons.
¨ Use the ARROW keys to highlight a transition you’d like to see run, then press OK.
¨ Press PLAY or use the T-BAR to run the transition.
The USER transition category is slightly different from the others. It originally contains
a default set of transitions, each of which also exists in the other categories. You can
“tailor” the content of the USER category to your specific needs and preferences. You’ll
learn more about this in later chapters.
Other Features
Refer to the rest of this User Guide to learn about the many additional MXPro features,
including:
¨ Using the DISPLAY button to change the content of the Preview screen.
¨ Freeze the picture.
¨ Separately control the sound.
¨ Apply input effects, such as mosaic, paint (posterization), negative, and more.
¨ Use chroma key to combine parts of one picture with parts of another.
¨ Compose your own pictures, made up of several stills, color rectangles, and a mov-
ing picture.
¨ Rearrange the inputs so A, B, C, and D, and their audio channels come from differ-
ent rear panel jacks.
¨ Memorize a sequence of transitions and play them back.
T
3
Installing MXPro
his chapter explains how to install (or, set up) MXPro to use with other equipment.
Major topics include:
• Understanding Sources and Output
• Understanding Preview and Program monitors
• Understanding the MXPro connectors
• Identifying Cables and Adapters you might need
• Installation Examples
• Installing a Microphone
If you are upgrading from the Videonics MX-1, see Appendix E, Information for MX-1
Users , for information that will be helpful setting up your equipment.
18
S
OURCES
Chapter 3 Videonics MX-Pro User Guide
AND
O
UTPUT
Source and Output refer to the way you use devices with MXPro. You can simultaneously connect up to four source devices and two output devices to MXPro.
00:00
Source Source
Source Source
Output Output
Source — A source is an input device. Each source provides a video signal, audio sig-
nal, or both. You use MXPro to combine and (optionally) animate these signals.
Output — An output is a device on which you record and/or broadcast a signal. The
signal might contain video, audio, or both. This signal is often a mix of signals coming
into MXPro from one or more of the sources. The output device might be a VCR with an
optional monitor attached, or it might be a live broadcast.
Installing MXPro Preview and Program Monitors
P
REVIEW
AND
P
ROGRAM
MXPro designates monitors as either Preview or Program to indicate how a particular
monitor may be used. This manual uses the following pictures to distinguish between
the two monitors.
M
ONITORS
Preview Monitor Program Monitor
Preview Monitor
The Preview monitor is your “working” monitor. Most of the time it contains controls
for managing Source and Output devices. For example, it shows miniature versions of
images coming from the attached VCR’s and camcorders. The Preview monitor also
shows a menu of transitions and other effects from which you can choose. See “Using
the Preview Screen” beginning on page 35.
19
CAUTION
Program Monitor
Number of Monitors
The Preview monitor must be a Composite device. Do not attempt to connect any
other type of monitor to the PREVIEW OUT jack on the MXPro rear panel.
The Program monitor shows the production exactly as recorded on the output device or
displayed in a live video environment. The Program monitor shows the program complete with transitions and other effects. You normally connect the Program monitor to
the output device. The Program monitor can be either a Composite or S-Video device.
You can operate MXPro with only one monitor connected to the Preview out. However,
to greatly simplify your work you should have at least two monitors — one Preview
and one Program. Instructions in this manual assume you have separate Preview and
Program monitors.
20
U
NDERSTANDING
Chapter 3 Videonics MX-Pro User Guide
MXP
To properly set up MXPro, you need to know how and where to connect external components – such as VCR’s, camcorders, and so forth. You use cables to connect video
devices to MXPro’s rear panel. See “Cables and Adapters” on page 23.
Remove MXPro from its package and set it so you can see the rear panel. Refer to the
panel and the illustration on page 21 while reading this section.
The MXPro rear panel has numerous connectors and they vary by type. You can connect input sources in any combination – up to a maximum of four. You can process
just the video signal from a device, just the audio signal, or both.
You can connect two separate output devices to MXPro. You might, for example, direct
one output to a recording device and the other to a live broadcast.
Note the labels associated with each and every connector on the MXPro rear panel.
POWER — An electrical power connector. Use the power cord and adapter in the
MXPro package to connect the unit to an electrical outlet.
VIDEO IN (Y/C) — Connect S-Video sources to these connectors.
VIDEO IN — Connect Composite sources to these connectors.
AUDIO IN — Connect audio devices to these connectors. Each set of connectors has
L (Left) and R (Right) jacks for stereo input. See“Audio Connectors” on page 24.
RO
C
ONNECTORS
There are a total of six output connectors — one Preview, two Composite, two S-Video,
and a Headphones jack.
PREVIEW OUT — Connect a Composite video monitor to this jack. You cannot use
an S-Video monitor as Preview. This monitor serves as your visual “interface” with
MXPro: it’s where you do most of your work.
OUT Y/C — Connect an S-Video output device. You record productions on this
device, use it to display a live broadcast signal, or both.
OUT — Connect a Composite output device. Same as above, but use this connector
if your output device is composite-type.
AUDIO OUT — Connect a suitable audio cable from this jack to the audio input on
your output device.
CONTROL (GPI) — Connect a General Purpose Interface (GPI) device to this jack to
control the MXPro from an external device or remote location. See “Using a GPI
Device” beginning on page 126.
HEADPHONES — See “Using Headphones” on page 25.
21
Installing MXPro Understanding MXPro Connectors
VIDEO
IN (Y/C)
OUT
(Y/C)
OUT AUDIO OUT CONTROL
(GPI)
VIDEO
IN
POWER
AUDIO
IN
PREVIEW OUTDIGITAL VIDEO IN
(FUTURE
UPGRADE)
12
1 2
34
1
L
R
LRL
R
L
R
2
3
4
3 4
MXPro Rear Panel
POWER
OUT Y/C
S-Video
AUDIO OUT
Left and Right
VIDEO IN (Y/C)
S-Video
VIDEO IN
Composite
AUDIO IN
Left and Right
PREVIEW OUT
Composite
OUT
Composite
CONTROL (GPI)
22
Chapter 3 Videonics MX-Pro User Guide
Power Connector
WARNING!
The MXPro package contains the required Transformer and Power Cord for the unit.
Male Socket Female Plug
Power
Adapter
Plug
Transformer Power Cord
Use only the power cord and transformer provided in the package. Do not use
this power cord and transformer with any other equipment. Failure to observe
these conditions can damage your equipment and void your warranty.
Procedure
To connect the power cord and transformer:
Connect the Female Plug on the Power Cord into the Male Socket on the Trans-
1
former.
Connect the Male Plug on the Power Cord to a suitable power outlet.
2
Connect the Power Adapter Plug on the Transformer cord into the Power connec-
3
tor on the MXPro rear panel.
Turn the MXPro Power Switch (located on the right side of the unit) to the ON
4
position.
Male
Plug
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