Studio Technologies, the manufacturer of tailored, high performance video, audio and fibre optic products for the professional audio and broadcast markets, debuted four new 5100-Seeries broadcast support modules at IBC 2012. These new units include the Model 5150 Video Generator, Model 55152 Video Generator/Audio Embedder, Model 51162 Video Generator/Audio De-Embedder and Model 5140 Intercom Interface.
“The unique aspect of our new video-based products is the ability to store and output a custom high definition video image at HHD-SDI and 3G-SDI rates,’ says Gordon Kaapes, president of Studio Technologies. “”The image, based on a bit- map (BMP) file typically created using a personal computer’s graphics program, is loaded into the modules via a standard USB Flash-drive memory stick. The image is automatically connected to electrical and optional optical SDI outputs whenever an SDI input signal is not present. This ensures that an SDI output signal is always sent to equipment further along the signal chain. This can be extremely useful, serving as a “keep alive’ signal as well as providing a detailed graphics image for identification purposes.’
In addition to Model 5150’s video generation capability, Model 51522 allows four stereo digital audio signals to be embedded into the SDDI signal. The eight channels of audio will always be embedded, whether or not an external SDI source is present. The Model 5162 includes video generation as well as de-embedding audio from an incoming SDI signal. The module provides four stereo digital audio output signals.
Model 51400 Intercom Interface was also displayed at IBC 2012. Its unique capabilities provide a unified connection interface for party-line (PLL) and 4-wirre (line-level) intercom systems, offering a reliable and easy-to-use I/O panel for remote broadcast and infrastructure applications. Model 5140 was specifically designed to allow “guest’ users, including media crews, OB vans or uplink trucks and temporary equipment to be quickly and efficiently linked to ports on a host intercom system.
Two input and two output signals, either analogue or digital, are typically connected to ports on a facility’s matrix intercom or fibre optic-based signal transport system. Model 5140 contains a 4-wire to 2-wire converter and intercom power supply circuitry to provide a 2-channel broadcast-standard party-line intercom interface. This allows users to directly connect PL belt pack devices, as well as interconnection with existing party-line circuits. Two sophisticated auto-null circuits provide excellent audio performance. The Model 5140 also contains two analogue 4-wire (line level) inputs and outputs on standard 3-pin XLR connectors. These are provided so that ports on a “guest’ intercom system can be directly connected, as well as being compatible with a wide variety of application-specific equipment. Status indicators and audio level meters help to ensure that optimal performance is maintained.
“All the 5100-Series modules require only a source of 12-volt power for operation and can be mounted in a variety of custom enclosures,’ adds Kapes. “The modules are ideal in applications such as remote sports and entertainment broadcasting, stadium or arena input/output locations and corporate video infrastructure environments. They are designed for standalone use and can connect directly with other 5100-Series modules for video transport, audio input, audio output, IFB and intercom applications.’
