Sierra Video 807110-00 - Manual (Page 3)

DigiLinx 1 RU Frame User’s Guide 3
SmartLinx Functionality
The SmartLinx connections to the frame allow multiple frames to be ‘daisy chained’ together to create a
network containing over 150 modules. While a SmartLinx controller (such as a Host Adapter) may be
installed in this frame, it is not necessary to do so. Any controller anywhere in the network can control all
modules within the network. Note that these connections are passive and that the failure of any frame
within the network does not disable the rest of the network (unless the only controller is installed in the
disabled frame).
The frame also contains passive circuitry which allows the frame to identify itself (through SmartLinx
modules plugged into it) to the SmartLinx controllers. Each frame has a frame address, which can be
changed using a pair of jumpers accessible through the front of the frame with the front panel removed. If a
new frame does not appear on a network containing more than one such frame, the new frame may be set to
an address already in use. The switches within the 807110 should be changed until the SmartLinx
controllers on the network independently identify all such frames. No 1 rack unit frame addresses overlap
with any 3 rack unit or desktop frame addresses.
The frame also contains passive ‘slot ID’ circuitry which indicates the position of specific modules within
the frame. Slots are numbered 1 through 6 starting with the upper leftmost slot (as viewed from the rear of
the frame).
The three conductor in-line connectors which mate with the SmartLinx connectors on DigiLinx frames are
supplied with each shipped frame (two per frame). They are Switchcraft part number TA3F, available
directly from Sierra Video Systems.
Power Supply Indicators (standard front panel)
The non-local control panel version of the 1 RU frame is equipped with a front panel featuring 3 power
indication LED’s. The LED’s are located behind the ‘dots’ of the ‘I’s in the DigiLinx trademark on the
panel face. The LED’s indicate (from left to right); +5V power OK, +8V power OK, and –8V power OK.
All three of these indicators should glow green to indicate a fully functional frame. Note that some versions
of this frame require a minimum load current to provide stable power. An under-loaded frame will indicate
its condition by flashing its LED’s roughly once per second. Under-loaded frames can be stabilized by
adding additional modules or by adding the DigiLinx Power Monitor module (507105-00) to the frame.
Local SmartLinx Control Panel (optional)
Introduction
This section describes the make-up and operation of the “One rack unit” (hereafter known as ‘1 RU’)
local control panel. Mounted directly on the front of a 6-module DigiLinx frame, this device provides
access to and control of any DigiLinx module installed in that frame via the SmartLinx communication
protocol. The internal electronic connection between the panel and the frame provides the panel with
power and an RS485 serial connection for the SmartLinx interface.
Access and control of a DigiLinx module consists of viewing and/or modifying parameters specific
to the currently selected module. Some examples of module parameters would be line mode, video
standard, delay values, video gains and offsets, etc. While some parameters are common to several
DigiLinx products, others are unique to a single product.