360 Systems Image Server 2000 - Manual (Page 12)

Page 12 Image Server 2000 Owner’s Manual
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 9-pin serial interface. Several serial
protocols are supported, allowing the Image Server to immediately operate with the controllers you
already own. VDCP and Odetics protocols provide very complete server control, including editing
functions. Sony BVW protocol is also provided in an abbreviated form allowing basic machine
control, without insert-editing. Six parallel “GPI” 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 allowing 9-pin control of each server channel, for
maximum flexibility. 360 Systems’ automation partners provide controllers for applications
ranging from affordable systems for Pro-AV, up to large-scale broadcast solutions. Contact a 360
Systems application engineer, or an automation provider 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 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; these may
be used for command acknowledgement (to drive LEDs or logic inputs), or may output commands
embedded within an Advanced Playlist on the Image Server.
Extended Feature Set
Image Server 2000 encodes video in MPEG-2 format, in 4:2:2 Profile with data rates to 50
Mb/sec, or in Main Profile to 15 Mb/sec. Both I-frame and long-GOP formats are supported.
MPEG-2 file transfers in MXF-format are compatible with servers from other market leaders. Image
Server 2000 can also receive IMX (D-10) files in the MXF format from Sony EVTRs.
The optional DV and Graphics capability allows Direct Digital Import™ of DV-25 and
TARGA files to an Image Server over an Ethernet connection. DV files may then be trimmed,
playlisted, stored, played out, and re-exported over Ethernet. They remain in DV format at all
times, and are not converted to MPEG. TARGA files may be imported to the Image Server, and
will be converted into separate high-resolution MPEG-2 “key” and “fill” files. These can be played
as a synchronized pair, for downstream compositing.
Audio Features
Image Servers include both analog and digital audio circuits, making it an easy fit when
upgrading a facility. Gold XLR connectors are used for audio inputs and outputs. Each output can
be configured for either AES/EBU digital or +4 dBu balanced analog. 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). SDI embedded audio is also included
as standard equipment.