BRODCSTAn INTERTEC' Publication August 1994/$5.00 en
Digital audio workstations Audio processing DAT recorders Intercom systems
.. . fea u nl i ug seriall digital facilities
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www.americanradiohistory.com Contents
August 1994 Volume 36 Number 8 BRoaDcasT enGineeRinG
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Page 20 Page .7' Poke 49
AUDIO PRODUCTION SYSTEMS: THIS MONTH... Today's digital editing systems make razor blade editing as obsolete as 78rpm records. Audio technology also is more affordable and feature laden than ever before. This 20 Selecting a DAW issue looks at some of the exciting develop- ments in audio systems. By Dave Hams Searching for the perfect DAW requires a special discipline. DEPARTMENTS: 8 FCC Update 26 Audio Processing for Broadcast Production Regulatory Fee Update By Curtis Chan 10 TV Strictly Audio processing in the production studio has come a long way lately. A Look at 8-VSB (Part 1) 12 Management Equipment Acquisition (Part 2) 34 Advances in DAT Recorders 14 Production By Curtis Chan Production Test Equipment New DAT features make the format even more attractive to broadcasters. (Part 1) 16 Troubleshooting Industrial Computers (Par' 2) 42 Intercoms 18 Technology News By Bob Cohen Real-Time Image Retrieval, Today's high -tech systems are computer -based. Analysis and Backup 60 Re: Radio Tubes in Review 49 Building Serial Digital Facilities 61 Transmission Technology By John Luff Tower Maintenance The question is, how much trouble are we about to be in? 64 SBE Update SBE Industry Relations 65 New Products 60 "Radio in Transition:" Audio Distribution By David Bytheway COLUMNS: Digital audio distribution is far more complex than its analog equivalent. 4 News 6 Editorial 73 Classifieds 76 Advertisers' Index ON THE COVER: Cover design by Christopher Irwin, Dolby Laboratories.
2 Broadcast Engineering August 1994
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www.americanradiohistory.com BROaDcaslnGT enGleeR EDITORIAL Brad Dick, Editor News Skip Pizzi. Technical Editor Steve Epstein, Technical Editor Dawn Hightower, Senior Associate Editor Deanna Rood, Associate Editor Tom Cook, Senior Managing Editor Carl Bentz, Directory Editor Jamie Gooch, Intern By Dawn Hightower, phone services and interactive-based senior associate editor services. ART Ruth Knotts, Associate Art Director The Wireless Cable Digital Alliance is Broadcasters warn that expected to make wireless cable systems BUSINESS Raymond E. Maloney, President more competitive with traditional wired Cameron Bishop, Group Vice President delays could doom cable and telephone systems launching Dennis Triola, Publisher digital video networks. Members of the Tom Brick Marketing Director infopike legislation Stephanie Hanaway, Group Director, Special Projects alliance are American Telecasting Inc., Broadcasters have urged lawmakers to Kathryn Buckley, Promotions Manager Colorado Springs, CO; Andrew Corpora- Sandra Tomczak, Promotions Coordinator pass Senate legislation that would set Dee Unger. Director Advertising Services tion, Orland Park, IL; the rules of the road for the nation's California Amplifier, Nancy Hupp, Advertising Production Manager Susan Jones, Advertising Coordinator information superhighway. Congression- Carmel, CA; EMCEE Broadcast Products, White Haven, PA; Microwave Filter Com- Chris Coughlin, List Rental Sales Representative al inaction could hurt consumers and Doug Coonrod, Corporate Art Director pany, Syracuse, NY; and Zenith Electron- Julie Neely, Circulation Director a stymie development of competitive na- Customer Service: 913-967-1711 or 800441-0294 tional information infrastructure. ics Corporation, Glenview, IL. The alli- ance may be expanded depending on the Edward O. Fritts, NAB president and TECHNICAL CONSULTANTS needs of the group. Jerry Whitaker, Contributing Editor CEO, pledged broadcasters will work with Eric Neil Angevin, Broadcast Acoustics lawmakers to pass legislation and set a John H. Battison. Antennas/Radiation Dennis Clapura, Radio Technology framework for future information services. Hundt to speak at Dane E. Ericksen, P.E., Systems Design Fritts praised the Hollings -Danforth leg- John Kean, Subcarrier Technology NAB Radio Show Donald L Markley, Transmission Facilities islation for recognizing the role broad- FCC Chairman Reed Hundt will be a Harry C. Martin. Legal casting must play in the future informa- Curtis Chan. Audio /Video Technology featured speaker during the NAB Radio tion marketplace. He singled out for Show, Oct. 12 -15 in Los Angeles. MEMBER ORGANIZATIONS praise provisions calling for a review of Hundt will address the radio broad- Sustaining Members of: broadcast structural rules and for autho- Acoustical Society of America casters Thursday, Oct. 13 at 2 p.m. at the Society of Broadcast Engineers rizing flexible use of broadcast spectrum Los Angeles Convention Center. Society of Motion Picture and TV Engineers that will allow broadcasters to provide Also during the show on Oct. 14, nation- n competitive digital services. Member, American Business Pressi al radio talk show hosts G. Gordon Liddy On the issue of telephone company/ and Jim Hightower will debate some of Member. BPA International VBPA cable cross -ownership, Fritts said broad- the most topical national and broadcast casters support the bill's safeguards, in- BROADCAST ENGINEERING Is edited for issues during a NAB Radio Show session corporate management. engineers /technicians and cluding those designed to prevent telcos called "The Right and Left of Talk Radio: other station management personnel at from using their large rate payer base to commercial and educational radio and TV stations. Liddy vs. Hightower," teleproduction studios, recording studios. CATV subsidize unregulated video and other For complete details about the NAB and CCTV facilities and government agencies. infopike services. Qualified persons include consulting engineers and Radio Show, use NAB's free fax-on-de- Fritts stressed the only way to prevent dealer/distributors of broadcast equipment. mand service at 301 -216 -1847. the substitution of one monopoly with BROADCAST ENGINEERING (ISSN 0007 -1994) is an even larger monopoly is a flat prohibi- published monthly (plus three special issues) and mailed free to qualified persons within the United tion preventing phone companies from SCIE issues call for papers States and Canada in occupations described above. buying up cable systems in their phone The Society of Cable Television Engi- Second-class postage paid at Shawnee Mission, KS, and additional mailing offices. POSTMASTER: Send service area. Allowing such mergers neers (SCTE) is seeking abstracts for tech- address changes to Broadcast Engineering, P.O. would mean less competition, not more. nical papers to be presented at its 1995 Box 12902. Overland Park, KS 66282 -2902.
Broadcasters believe the bill could be Conference on Emerging Technologies, SUBSCRIPTIONS: Non-qualified persons may improved by requiring telcos that trans- to be held Jan. 4-6, in Orlando, FL. subscribe at the following rates: United States and port video to offer non-discriminatory Those wanting to present papers should Canada; one year, 550.00. Qualified and non- qualified persons in all other countries: one year, access to that capacity under common send submissions by Sept. 1 to Bill Riker $60.00 (surface mall): $115.00 (air mall). carrier principles. c/o SCIE, 669 Exton Commons, Exton, PA Subscription information: P.O. Box 12937, Overland Park. KS 66282 -2937. 19341. For more information call SCIE at 610-363-6888 or fax to 610-363-5898. Authorization to photocopy Items for internal or Alliance forms to personal use, or the internal or personal use of specific clients. is granted by Intertec Publishing, develop advanced provided that the base fee of U.S. $2.00 per copy, Should energy -saving plus U.S. $00.00 per page Is paid directly to wireless cable delivery Copyright Clearance Center, 222 Rosewood Drive. standards apply to TV sets? Danvers. MA 01923. The fee code for users of this Six companies in the wireless cable in- The NAB has urged the Department of Transactional Reporting Service is ISSN 0361-0942/ dustry have announced a research and 1994 52.00.00.00. For those organizations that have development alliance to develop digital Energy (DOE) not to impose energy con- been granted a photocopy license by CCC, a on TV sets, because separate system of payment has been arranged. technologies for the over -the-air deliv- servation standards Prior to photocopying items for educational ery of hundreds of channels of digital televisions only require as much energy classroom use. please contact CCC at 508.750.8400. as a lightbulb. video programming and other services. CORRESPONDENCE The alliance plans to develop wireless The energy conservation standard also Editorial and Advertising: 9800 Metcalf, Overland might deter TV manufacturers from in- Park, KS 66212-2215. Telephone: 913 -341.1300: digital technologies that will enable con- Editorial fax: 913-967 -1905. Advrt. fax: 913.967 -1904. sumers to receive from 150 to 300 chan- troducing features preferred by consum- e 1994 by Intertec Publishing nels, including near video-on-demand ers, and could deter introduction of HDTV All rights reserved. pay -per -view movie offerings. Efforts will and interactive television. O/NrINaiEt:PUBLISHING also be directed toward wireless tele-
4 Broadcast Engineering August 1994
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www.americanradiohistory.com Editorial
The one -product dilemma
Imagine the dilemma of yesterday's milkman. Here was a guy (an entire industry) who built a successful business delivering milk products to the consumer. He didn't generate the product, he simply delivered it. The milkman was the pipeline that connected the product's producer (cows) to product consumers (milk drinkers). It was a successful venture. Then came the supermarkets. Now consumers, who had to shop anyway, could just as easily get their milk at the grocery store. And the grocery store offered thousands of other products. Why should consumers continue using the milkman who offered only one product, when the supermarket had a variety of prod- ucts on their shelves. It was the result of marketplace changes that forced the milkman out of business. It simply became unprofitable to be the pipeline for a single product. TV broadcasters are facing a similar paradox. Like the milkman, they deliver one product, one channel of pro- gramming, to the consumer. Although they do a great job, they are limited to only one product (channel). On the other hand, cable has become the equivalent of a video supermarket, with 20 to 100 times more products (programs) available for the clicking. It's not hard to see why more than 63% of TV households are connected to cable. Viewers want options. Will it be possible for the local TV station to effectively compete for the TV viewer? Or are broadcasters doomed to go the way of the milkman? Regulators could learn a lesson from real world indus- tries. Henry Ford once said you could have any color car you wanted as long as it was black. He was wrong and if Ford hadn't changed to meet the consumer's demand, the company wouldn't be around today. Would a TV station that refused to convert to color be around today?
I think not. The hallmark of TV broadcasting has always been free, over-the-air transmission of programming. That will remain the case. But stations also need the flexibility to offer more than one product. This means the ability to produce and transmit additional channels of programs, not just HDTV. Forcing broadcasters to only transmit HDTV places them in the same dilemma as the milkman, being the pipeline for a single product. In today's world, a one-product company cannot succeed in a market that demands many options. We don't need the video equivalent of the now obsolete milkman. This is why future regulations must allow TV stations enough flexibility to meet the needs of their own viewers, whether that means multicasting and /or HDTV.
'&4- 6 Broadcast Engineering August 1994 www.americanradiohistory.com See spot. See spot run. See spot run without aggravatingtoo damnthe entire audience loud. because it's Who needs the aggravation? diabolical new ways to "punch" your programs. And with built -in With the new OPTIMOD -'l'V their sound. The 8282 handles presets, general programming, DIGITAL you never have to it all quietly, digitally, and news, sports, film, fine arts and worry about poorly mixed automatically. The OP'I'I1MOD- other broadcasts will always programs, complaints from irate TV is fully progammable to sound great at home. Never too viewers, or advertisers devising optimize audio processing of loud, too soft, or too spotty. or bon H A Harman International Company 1525 Alvarado tit.. San Leandro, CA 94577 I \ Phone I510351.35(M1 pas 1.5101510500. 1994 0 AKG Acoustics. Inc. Urban and 01'II \ IUI).trc rc6.rcrcd tr.idrm.oL' -'t kC ; usrü.. Inc \Il other trademarks are praperty of their respective companies. Circle (16) on Reply Card www.americanradiohistory.com FCC Update Regulatory fee update By Harry C. Martin and Andrew S. Kersting The FCC recently issued an order re- FCC modifies freeze on ITFS new guidelines also contain criteria for garding the assessment and collection of and wireless cable applications upward and downward adjustments to annual regulatory fees. See the table for The FCC modified the freeze on the the base fine based on factors such as (i) FCC's established regulatory fee payment filing of major change applications in the the actual number of minority/female ap- due dates. Instructional TV Fixed Service (ITFS). plicants or hires during the license term; Accordingly, the commission will begin (ii) the number of hiring opportunities; accepting applications for major chang- (iii) the number of minorities /females in FEE PAYMENT es to existing facilities and applications the local labor force; (iv) the licensee's CATEGORY DUE DATE that are mutually exclusive with propos- employment profile; (v) the licensee's als on file. use and productivity of general and mi- TV stations July 26-29 (VHF: $5,000- $18,000) The FCC also announced its intention nority recruitment sources; and (vi) the lic- (UHF: $4,000- $14,400) to adopt a window filing system to in- ensee's self-assessment of its EEO program. 2nd installment due Aug. 26 crease the efficiency of processing ITFS Other sanctions. Short-term renewals if fee exceeds $12,000 applications, and is seeking comment on will be issued under a variety of circum- the following proposals intended to in- stances. Moreover, where a licensee has Low -power TV, TV July 26 -29 crease the efficiency and curtail potential been found to have a deficient EEO pro- translators and boosters abuse of the window filing application gram, it may receive remedies or sanc- ($135) process by: tions ranging from: (a) reporting condi- requiring educators and wireless cable tions, a base fine plus a 90% upward Commercial FM stations Aug. 8-10 lessees ($600 -$900) to demonstrate their financial abil- adjustment (in addition to any other up- ity to construct the proposed facilities; ward adjustments that may be imposed), Commercial AM stations Aug. 29 - limiting the number of applications that and a short -term renewal; to (b) ' wing ($250 -$900) Sept. 2 an ITFS or wireless cable entity can file or its renewal application designai d for be associated with during a window; hearing and being subject to a possible International (HF) Aug. 29 - clearly defining an "area of operation" fine of $250,000 if the licensee previously broadcast stations ($200) Sept. 2 for the purpose of the 4- channel rule; received a short -term renewal. making the protected service area for Retroactive application. The FCC ap- Public fixed radio stations Aug. 1 -5 wireless cable lessees effective only with plied its new guidelines retroactively in ($55 per call sign) regard to applications filed after the pro- several renewal proceedings and im- Cable TV devices Aug. 10 -12 tection request; posed fines ranging from $18,750 to ($220 per license) expanding the definition of major chang- $37,500. In the $37,500 case, the licensee ($0.37 per subscriber) es to include certain changes, classified failed to recruit for 51 of its 67 full -time 2nd installment due Sept. 9 as minor, that would significantly impact hires, and did not contact any minority if fee exceeds $18,500 existing or proposed facilities; and recruitment sources. As a result, the lic- further ensuring that receive sites are ensee attracted only one minority appli- Space stations Aug. 17 -19 accredited. cant for 67 overall and 61 upper-level ($65,000- $90,000) vacancies. 2nd installment due date Forfeiture guidelines FCC Sept. 16 Flexible approach. The emphasized, established for EEO violations however, that its new forfeiture criteria Earth stations Aug. 17 -19 The FCC has adopted guidelines for are not intended to limit its flexibility in ($0.06 per antenna per assessing forfeitures for violations of the assessing fines for EEO violations. call sign ($6.00 minimum)) broadcast EEO rules. The agency has re- established the base fine amount for EEO Date line Cellular and public Aug. 22 -26 violations at $12,500. A base fine will be On Oct. 1, commercial radio and TV sta- mobile licensees assessed where a licensee fails to attract ($0.06 per subscriber) tions in the following states and territo- an "adequate pool" of minority /female ries must file their annual ownership re- applicants or hires (i.e., at least one mi- If an entity is paying for more than one ports or ownership report certifications: category of regulatory fees with a single nority in each applicant pool) for at least Alaska, Florida, Guam, Hawaii, Iowa, Mis- payment instrument, the latter due date 66% of all hiring opportunities during the souri, Oregon, Puerto Rico, Samoa, Virgin applies. license term. The FCC stated that evi- Islands and Washington. On or before Oct. dence of a violation will include inade- 10, all radio and TV stations must place In quate record- keeping and /or self-assess- their public files listings of issues and re- sponsive programming for the quarter Martin and Kersting are attorneys with Reddy. Begley & Martin. ment throughout the license term. ending Sept. 30. Washington, DC. Upward and downward adjustments. The 8 Broadcast Engineering August 1994 www.americanradiohistory.com You can't miss us! Photokina B C Cologne. September 22- 27.1912 Amsterdam. Sept. 16- 20.1994 Hall 14.2. Stand C 8(bueam boom) Hall 8. Stande 8341 Showbiz Munich, September 24- 261994 Stand 4 302 Working with Sachtler equipment means shooting from angles, 90, 60, 50 and 40 degree. The fully extended tri- the best position. With the new Sachtler off ground pod gains additional stability on smallest ground space. spreader the camera can always be placed at exactly Dirt and mud won't bother you anymore. Weighing only the right spot. 20 oz / 756 gr the Sachtler off ground spreader is lighter The new Sachtler off ground spreader does not take up than any other spreader. The new off ground spreader can any more area than a conventional spreader. By turning be retrofitted quickly and easily. Try it out and you will the center -knob the struts can be locked in four different see how easy it makes finding the best camera position. U.S.A. - sachtlere Japan The Spreader always at the right spot! corporation of America Amic Sachtler Corp. New York office: La ®8E= R31F111 55 North Main Street *lii 1 Freeport. N Y 11520 -2 -21 x154 Phone 516,867.4900 !s8 (03)3413 -1212 Fax 15 161 6 23. 68 44 Fax (03)3413 -0888 Eastern Europe: Sachtler Vertriebsgesellschaft m.b.N. Germany Segelfliegerdamm 67 12487 Berlin Telephone 10 30)6 36 4311 Telefax 1030)6 36 3466 Headquarters: Sachtler AG Germany. Gutenbergstraße 5 85716 Unterschlelosheim WI Munchen Telephone 10 89)32158 200 sachtler Telefax (389)32158 227 Telex 5 215 340 sac d Support & Lighting Circle (17) on Reply Card www.americanradiohistory.com Strictly TV A look at 8 -VSB Transmission By Curtis Chan Last February, the Technical Subgroup interleaver; 4) a trellis encoder; 5) a mul- leaved and then broken down into 832 of the Special Panel approved Zenith's 8- tiplexer; 6) a pilot inserter; 7) a VSB mod- symbols of three bits each. Interleaving VSB (8- vestigial sideband) transmission ulator and 8) an RF upconverter. is used to improve a signal's robustness system recommended by the Grand Alli- First, the randomizer is used to ran- by taking related data and spreading it ance. It was the last unapproved sub- domize the input data. This is done to out in a defined sequence. The result is a system. The selection of the 8 -VSB trans- ensure that the data being transmitted reduction in adjacent symbol errors, mission system was the result of testing which would impact the effectiveness of the proposed 32-QAM and 8 -VSB system the error correction process. for terrestrial broadcast and the 256-QAM Interleaving is used to Sync signals are multiplexed with the and 16-VSB for cable applications. Al- data after it has been forward error cor- though the test results were close in many improve a signal's rection encoded. Because of this, the sync categories, VSB was the decisive winner robustness by taking signals are transmitted without FEC. Be- in channel allotment issues, such as the related data and cause the symbols used for sync are the ability to accommodate all stations while only symbols that repeat at regular inter- minimizing co- channel and adjacent spreading it out in a vals, it is relatively easy for the receiver channel interference. defined sequence. to lock onto them. The net data through- put of the final 8 -VSB system is roughly 8-VSB 19.3Mb/s after accounting for the sync The VSB transmission system architec- appears random even when the input to signals plus the Reed -Solomon and trellis ture is designed around a pulse ampli- the system is constant. Random data is encoding overhead. tude modulation (PAM) scheme for important for signal reception. After be- After the sync pulses are multiplexed both terrestrial and cable applications. ing randomized, the data is sent to the into the datastream, the pilot is inserted. The PAM -based format uses eight (8- Reed-Solomon (RS) encoder. To be relatively rugged, the receiver sys- VSB) discrete levels for broadcast and tem must be able to acquire the signal 16 (16 -VSB) for cable. The PAM stream Data format structure and maintain a lock in the presence of remains at a constant level for a 92.9ns The datastream sent to the modula- interval called the symbol period. This tor is divided into segments of 832 translates to roughly 10.76 million sym- symbols each. Four symbols with a bols per second. This symbol rate was fixed sequence are added to each seg- System architecture is chosen to have a 684xf11 relationship to ment for synchronization. Each seg- designed around a the NTSC line rate, which allows for ment is 77.7µs. A group of 313 seg- pulse amplitude modu- receiver processing to reduce NTSC ments becomes a field, with one seg- co-channel interference. Because eight ment devoted to field sync. Each field lation (PAM) scheme. is 2' and 16 is 21, each symbol is repre- is 24.3ms with two fields per frame. In sented by three bits in 8-VSB and four the newer proposals, alternate field sync signals are inverted to avoid a DC noise and interference. A small pilot add- imbalance from the fixed sequence. ed to the suppressed carrier RF data For terrestrial broadcast, the 832 sym- signal allows robust carrier recovery in The net data through- bol segments break down as follows. the receiver during these conditions. A put of the final 8-VSB The MPEG -2 transport stream packet small DC level is added to every symbol system is roughly length is 188 bytes. Another 20 bytes of the digital baseband data signal. This 19.3Mb /s. of ECC (error correction coding) using has the effect of adding a small in -phase an R-S technique are added for a total pilot to the data signal, which provides a of 208 bytes. These 208 bytes consist highly stable and accurate pilot. of eight bits each for a total of 1,664 After the pilot is inserted, the data - bits in 16 -VSB. This translates to a raw bits. Then, another level of ECC is ap- stream goes through a pre -equalizer data rate of 32.28Mb/s for the 8 -VSB sys- plied through a 2 /:t rate trellis coding. filter and then to the VSB modulator. tem and 43.05Mb/s for the 16-VSB. These extra error correction codes are Next month we'll continue our discus- The VSB transmitter is composed of the forward error correction (FEC). sion of the VSB transmission system and eight sequential subblocks: 1) a data ran- This coding scheme reduces the num- will wrap up with a discussion on the domizer; 2) an R -S encoder; 3) a data ber of payload databits but improves inner workings of the receiver end. the signal's robustness tremendously. Chan is president of Chan and Associates. a marketing consulting The trellis coding increases the num- service for audio. broadcast and post-production, Fullerton. CA. ber of bits to 2,496. These bits are inter- 10 Broadcast Engineering August 1994 www.americanradiohistory.com SADiE 2.1 There's a lot more behind a SADiET" than you might think. Our job doesn't finish when you pur- chase your SADiE system. For a start you can tele- phone for advice, support or just a chat from early morning 'til late evening. seven days a week and because we combine our sales and service into one customer support opera- tion, you'll most likely be speaking to the same per- son that sold you your SADiE. And if your system stops working ( don't let \s\ anyone tell you "break- downs never happen!" j cus- tomer support will get you up and running again as rapidly as possible. As our It's the little things tkat matter support team often work with clients on actual projects, we really understand SADiE and the NEW IN VERSION 2.1 pressures of audio production. Every SADiE user has the latest soft- ware - we know you are the best advertisement for SADiE' so free fader, pan and mute automation software updates are a sound investment for all of us. Finally, we don't try to make money out of maintaining your auto -conforming SADiE" - an extended 3 year hardware maintenance contract will cost machine control you less than S1,500 and you don't have to purchase it until the end of the 12 month CMX support FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: free maintenance Studio Audio Digital Equipment Inc even faster editing 1808 West End Avenue, period. The price background networking Suite 1119,Nashville. Tennessee 37203 USA - of a SADiE "? TEL: .1 615 327 1140 same as ever - a playlist overview FAX: .1 615 327 1699 complete system CD -R support for $9,995 (plus the odd local tax, all this in addition to SADiE's duty and delivery, phenomenal editing an proven audio where applicable) processing capabilities. Circle (18) ora Reply Card SADiE" DISTRIBUTORS WORLDWIDE Argentina Kappa T 081 31 0818 F 081 31 1493 Asia Pacific VW Marketing T .44 372 728481 F .44 372 (24009 Australia NC T 09 249 6688 F 09 249 6858 Canada JSGS Ltd T 416 751 7907 F 416 751 7975 Denmark SC Sound 7 43 99 88 77 F 43 99 80 77 Finland oy HeaCom AO T 90 682 866 F 90 682 8489 Franse Coach Audio T 87 7700 00 F 87 77 01 21 *Germany Stefan Mayer Audio Engineering T 0 6851 6519 F 0 6851 6519. Israel Sontronics Electronic Equipment T 03 5705223 F 03 6199297 Kona Anta Trading Co. Ltd T 02 565 3565 F 02 565 3561 New Zealand Videx T 09 444 6085 F 09 444 3837 Philippines Tracks T 2 631 3277 F 2 631 3267 Poland T Unico .44 223 63025 F .44 223 301488 South Altos Tru.li Electronics SA )Pty) Ltd T 011 462 4256 F 011 462 3303 Spain Lexon T 93 203 48 04 F 93 280 40 29 Sweden Tranzicom T 08 730 3710 F 08 730 5125 Switzerland Media Solutions T 064 41 57 22 F 064 41 00 35 Taiwan Acesonic T 2 716 8896 F 2 719 2065 Thailand KDM Trading T 2 318 2724 F 2 318 6186 USA SADiE Inc T 615 327 1140 F 615 3271699 Wagon is a reynrered trademark or Worowrr l.e Stud. Aud,o a Vaeo Lid resene tese rym to cOot. specaurrons WnnaN Ono, wine www.americanradiohistory.com Management Equipment acquisition Equipment acquisition and employee productivity By Rick Moms As the chief engineer began to review ductivity. The second area of productivi- require the cooperation of the account- her 5-year equipment acquisition plan, ty increases comes from R&D. Combine ing department and engineering. You will she noticed some important trends. Most the concept of improving processes with be calculating a rate of return and time to of the equipment had been purchased the third area of improvement of the qual- pay back. Your accounting department many years ago and although the sta- ity of the work force and you have reached will be able to do the bulk of the calcula- tion had made emergency replacements the keys to productivity improvement: A tions, but will depend on you for crucial during the last few years, the economy productive work force is one where the input on man hours saved, changes in did not permit any equipment initiatives. workers are well trained and using good the use of your staff, and saved and in- This had been bad news, but now there equipment. This is a simple statement, creased expenses. Manufacturers of ma- were opportunities to achieve a more but how often do engineering managers jor pieces of broadcast equipment can efficient engineering department and forget to implement it when they deploy be helpful in assisting with projections station. By carefully planning equip- departmental resources? on such things as maintenance costs. ment purchases, the CE realized that she could maximize the use of her staff Equipment replacement and reduce costs. to increase productivity When purchasing new Research and development in broad- Productivity cast equipment has led to increases in equipment, buy Productivity, simply defined, is the out- labor efficiencies. Not long ago, it was all necessary spares. put per worker. Productivity can be mea- one operator could do to monitor a few sured in many ways, but we'll consider VTRs. Now, with automation assist, reli- productivity as output per hour worked, able equipment, and automatic failure As facilities move to higher levels of or an aggregate of the total labor costs switching, one operator can be in charge efficiency, personnel and training become that reflects the labor input. of all on -air tape equipment, master con- important. First, in order to operate com- There are two ways to produce more trol switching, transmitter remote moni- plex equipment, you will need to enhance profit. The first is by increasing revenue toring and satellite recordings. your commitment to training. Second, (principally done by sales) and second In television, post -production is under- when purchasing new equipment, buy by decreasing expenses. The engineer- going such a metamorphosis with one necessary spares, because you will be operator able to control all video, audio, dependent on equipment up time. Also, effects, tapes and text generation. The make sure your manufacturers have sub- Research and next wave of post -production efficiency stantial service support. Finally, plan on is also visible with non -linear editing. additional training for maintenance engi- development in Many broadcast equipment manufac- neers. Although the savings of operation- broadcast equipment turers are sensitive to the issue of pro- al effort should outweigh possible addi- has led to increases in ductivity of the end -users. They will usu- tional maintenance costs, do not fail to ally provide information and informal account and budget for them. labor efficiencies. assistance if the potential purchaser needs to know what it takes to operate What to do with the labor savings the equipment. Anything that affects manpower is ing department can usually make the fraught with controversy because of the greatest contribution to the station's prof- Projections of savings specter of layoffs, but it need not be so. itability by controlling expenses. One of First, begin with the acquisition cost of Planning for major operational changes the largest cost centers for engineering is equipment including interest expense if can take years and staff attrition can be labor. In order to decrease labor costs, the money is borrowed. The acquisition used to minimize direct impact on job you can decrease the total number of of some equipment is purchased through positions. Opportunities arise to start tasks performed, or increase the efficien- cash-on-hand or current revenues, oth- new programs or newscasts with the same cy with which each task is performed. er equipment purchases may require number of staff, raising the possibility of Broadcast and production tasks are de- borrowing. Equipment costs will enter having more local time to sell. Technol- pendent on technology and machines, so the corporate balance sheet at a num- ogy can also allow you to release people equipment is one key to increased pro- ber of places (depreciation, ordinary from repetitive tasks for more creative expense, interest expense) and affect work. Finally, you may reduce overtime, Morris is an assistant professor of radio/TV/tilm at Northwestern the bottom line. saving costs and helping your staff to University He Is a former chief engineer and a former manager of Planning for equipment purchases that achieve a better quality of life. engineering and maintenance for a major TV network. are premised on labor efficiencies will 12 Broadcast Engineering August 1994 www.americanradiohistory.com In studios and labs, on benches and factory floors, EASY TO USE stations and networks, thousands of System One Audio Straightforward features and stored sample audio tests test systems around the world attest to the fact that this make System One easy to use. Color graphic test results is the System that works. Hardware and software refined also may be copied to printers and plotters. to match the application produce both superior perform- ance and superior reliability as demonstrated by our GO/NO -GO testing against limits and test sequencing with three year warranty on parts and labor. automated procedures save time and repetitive motions. THE RECOGNIZED STANDARD HIGH PERFORMANCE System One is known the world over as the recognized standard in audio test and measurement. Component New digital and analog technologies leave yesterdays suppliers, manufacturers, equipment reviewers, and "good enough" performance far behind. System One end -users all rely on Audio Precision for measurement easily handles high performance challenges such as quality they can trust. state of the art analog preamps or digital recording systems. COMPREHENSIVE & FAST System One is a completely integrated digital and ana- The integrated System One offers premium specifica- log audio test system. By combining all the necessary tions and performance, but at no premium in price instruments into one package System One provides compared to lesser test sets or equivalent separate higher performance at lower cost than conventional instruments. instruments. In addition, System One can grow with your Our worldwide force of Audio Precision representatives needs. lbur initial purchase of a basic System One allows will be pleased to provide further information and an you to add any option later. onsite demonstration. Optional FASTTEST & FASTTRIG DSP capabilities test any audio channel, producing 160 measurements from a stimulus signal less than one second in duration. Options such as input and output switchers and the DSP-based FFT and digital domain modules make "one- stop" audio M: 1udi,a testing easy. precision P.O. Box 2209 Beaverton, OR 97075 -3070 503/627- 0832,800/231 -7350 FAX: 503/641 -8906 Circle (6) on Reply Card INTERNATIONAL DISTRIBUTORS Amtrella: IRT Electronics Pty.. Tel: (61) 2 439 3744 Austria: ELSINCO GmoH. TMI. (43) 222 815 04 00. Belgium: Trans European Mum NV. Tel. (32) 2.466 5010 Bulgarlc ELSINCO. h.e. Strolb4hte. Tel (359) 92 581 698 Confide: GERRAUDIO Distribution. Tel (416) 696.2779 China. Hong Kong: A C E (Inl'l) Co Ltd Tel (852) 4240387 Czech Republic: ELSINCO Praha spol s r o.. Tel (42) (2) 4702 I. 451. 452 Denmark: npn Elokbonik ape. Tel (45) 86 57 15 11 Flnlend: Genelec OY. Tel (358) 77 13311 France: ETS Mesureur. Tel (33) (I) 45 83 66 41 Germany: RTW GmbH. Tel (49) 221 70 91 30 Hungary: ELSINCO KFT. Tel (36) 112 4854 India: HINDITRON Services PVY. Tel (91) 22 836-4560 Israel: Dan -El Technologies. Ltd_ Tel (972) 3.544.1466 holy: Audio Link s n c Tel (39) 521598723 Japan: TOPO Corporation. Tel (81) 3 (5688) 6800 Korea: 86P International Co. Ltd. Tel (82) 2 5461457 Malayele: Test Measurement 6 Engineering Sdn Bhd. Tel (60) 3 734 1017 Netherlands: TM Audio B.V. Tel (31) 034 0870717 New Zeeland: Audio & Video Wholesalers. Tel (64) 7 847.3414 Norway: Lydoonsult. Tel (47) 919 0381 Poland: ELSINCO Polska sp z o.. Tel 148)122)396979 Portugal: Acutron Electroacushca LDA. Tel. (351) 1 9414087 / 9420862 Singapore: THE Systems Pte Ltd., Tel (65) 298.2608 Slovakia: ELSINCO Bratislaka spol s r o Tel (42) 171 784 165 South Africa: SOUNDFUSION. Tel (27) ' 1 477 -1315 Spain: Talco A_ Tel 1 7101 1 Electronics. S. (34) 531 Sweden: Tal & Ton Eleklronik AB. Tel (46) 31 80 36 20 Switzerland: Or W A Gunther AG. Tel (41) 910 41 41 Taiwan: ACESONIC Intl Co_ Ltd . Tel (886 2 719 2388 United Kingdom: SSE Marketing Ltd . Tel (44) 71 387.1262 www.americanradiohistory.com Production Production test equipment Hand-held solutions By Jeff Noah If you've ever had a problem at the end viewed as a luxury rather than a neces- four monitoring devices, a color picture of a long string of video and audio ca- sity. This perception stemmed from the monitor, waveform monitor, vectorscope bles that are strung out across a golf expense of the equipment and a lack of and audio monitor in a hand -held, bat- course, race track or stadium, you can understanding of the benefits the equip- tery-operated package. appreciate the value of portable test ment could deliver (although produc- The technological advances required equipment. Without it, cameras and mi- tion crews fortunate enough to have a to manufacture tools small enough to fit crophones end up as the signal sources good set of portable TV test tools will in your hand include the reduction of during setup, which makes for a margin- tell you they can't live without them). complete instruments to a single chip. al installation arrangement at best, but However, the perception is changing This high degree of circuit integration often, it's the only option. with the latest generation of test equip- can result in lower manufacturing costs Remote trucks are often booked so ment designed for field use. and higher reliability through reduced tightly there's hardly time to shut the With portable test gear, crews can in- parts counts. engine off before the feed begins. This stall and easily identify and label wiring leaves little, if any, time for troubleshoot- well in advance. Signals can be sent Inside connections ing the inevitable problems. Even in the through cables to verify performance. If In -house productions are typically more best of circumstances, the only video problems surface, the tools are on hand stable than field productions, with fewer quality checks that production gear can to identify them, hopefully with adequate variables and, hopefully, no unknowns. provide are subjective: you eyeball the time to make repairs. However, problems still arise in studios picture and try to spot any anomalies. The list of necessary gear is fairly short. with tried and true setups. Finding and A signal generator with text ID at one end fixing them as quickly as possible is es- of a cable, and a portable picture moni- sential. Having talent and crew standing tor at the other, simplifies the process of around while you locate a bad BNC or identifying cables. Add some standard cable can get expensive quickly. video test signals and audio tones to the generator, pair it with a combination waveform /vector /picture monitor, and The technological that's all that is needed to troubleshoot wiring problems. advances required to manufacture tools Hand -held solutions small enough to fit in In recent years, several manufacturers Quick - which connector is bad? The perfect have supplied products addressing the your hand include the time to have hand-held test equipment. (Photo needs of remote production. The latest reduction of complete courtesy of Ken Hunold.) generation of test gear goes beyond yes- instruments to a terday's solution of a 20 -pound half -rack single chip. There's no substitute for the assur- combination waveform /vector monitor ance provided by a test signal displayed with a 10 -pound battery brick attached on a waveform or vector monitor. Once to its underside. Many of today's solu- the site is wired and the production tions redefine the term portable. They The latest technology in portable test equipment is in place, questions of run on generic -sized disposable batter- gear permits engineers to simply open a equipment performance are answered ies or their NiCad equivalents and fit in tool box, grab a compact generator and/ only by punching up standard video test the palm of your hand. Signal genera- or monitor and head straight for the sus- signals, routing them through the sus- tors offer capabilities ranging from bars - pected problem source. There are no pected device or link and looking at the only to feature sets with many of the extra audio or video cables to run, no other end with a waveform monitor and same features as full -sized studio equip- power and /or extension cords to locate vectorscope. ment, including text ID, a large signal and no heavy, bulky gear to maneuver complement and several audio tones and behind a rack. A better way levels. So whether you're working in the stu- In the past, having portable test gear Although the miniaturization of signal dio or lugging gear from the parking lot to on hand for remote productions was generators is impressive, the greatest the 13th green, today's hand -held equip- advances have occurred in the signal ment, combined with experience, inge- Noah is a technical writer for Tektronix Television Division, monitoring arena. A recently introduced nuity and planning, can make any pro- Beaverton. OR. monitor combines the functionality of duction go more smoothly. 14 Broadcast Engineering August 1994 www.americanradiohistory.com Media Pool is the video server system from BTS that is shattering everyone's idea of what tapeless recording should be. BTS for the first time revealed idea shattering features such as: Expandable Time from 10 minutes to hundreds of hours of video on-line! Expandable Channels from one user to a dozen or more can have simultaneous real-time access to the entire pool of storage. Variable Data Compression from full bandwidth 10-bit CCIR 656 video to any level of compression, you choose the quality of each video clip. Unparalleled Reliability. RAID error correction perfectly corrects all Call toll-free (800) 962.4BTS errors and disk failures. Redundant hot swappable drives, electronics, power Outside the U.S. and Canada, supplies and fans guarantee that you stay operational when your revenue call (805) 584-4700 stream depends on it. Media Pool provides the first professional video alternative to tape. Circle (7) on Reply Card www.americanradiohistory.com . Troubleshooting Industrial computers * ,i ll,;, --III Selection and configuration i VI1'_.Il.t aw,r By Steve Newbegin selecting and configuring an industrial PC system doesn't have to be a daunting CPU: passive backplane plug -in card or motherboard task. Despite all the possible configura- Chassis: 19 -inch rack -mount with slide rails and enough expansion slots tions and vendors out there, you can Memory: ROM BIOS, RAM (standard, expanded and extended), virtual drive(s) Disk drives and controllers: IDE or SCSI HDD, FDD(s), minimize confusion and save money sim- CD-ROM Environmental: power supply, cooling fan(s), vents and air filters being ply by informed and organized. As Display: video /graphics adapters, monitor and rack -mounting slides described last month, the modular de- Data entry: keyboard, mouse, touchscreen or custom user -interface sign of the industrial PC provides high Data integrity: RAID or tape backup adaptability to a variety of applications. Maintenance: extender (diagnostic) boards Conversely, no single PC configuration Signal processing: analog/digital I/O, DSP and application- specific cards will fit all needs perfectly. Network hardware: LAN adapters, concentrators, hubs Both motherboard CPUs and plug -in Communications boards: real -time clock, communications co-processors, etc. interfacing: serial /parallel ports, remote 1/O CPU cards are available for a variety of termination boards, Modem: high -speed POTS, Switched -56, ISDN or dedicated line popular bus architectures, including In- Software: operating system /environment, networking, applications dustry Standard Architecture (ISA), Ex- Printer dot -matrix, ink-jet or laser; monochrome or color tended ISA (EISA), Video Electronics Stan- Protection: watchdog timer, security panels, locks, surge protector dards Association (VESA), Peripheral Components Interconnect (PCI) local bus Table 1. A list of features and options for an industrial PC. and others. Onboard features of these CPUs usually include floppy disk and IDE speed, interface Flexibility to different me- gree of service and applications support. or SCSI device controllers, cache RAM dia and built-in expandability that SCSI The other 25% of sales go to do-it -your- and other options. The motherboard is controllers do. Most IDE controllers will selfers who buy their system components less expensive, but if your application is handle only two drives per system vs. from a variety of sources and configure critical and a quick response to down- seven for each SCSI controller. At two the systems themselves. time is necessary, you may opt for the controllers per PC, that's four IDE drives If the latter describes you, remember passive backplane unit with its 5- minute or 14 SCSI drives. Let the application that many vendors exhibit limited respon- MTTR of all major system components determine the best solution. sibility to the products they resell. When including the CPU, drives and feature Table 1 provides a list of the most im- one of their products comes back under cards. portant features and options that your warranty, they often refer the customer The most popular and space -efficient system may require. to the original manufacturer. This can industrial PC is the 19 -inch rack chassis, extend to virtually every major compo- which provides from four to 20 full -length Off-the -shelf vs. off-the -wall nent in your computer. Generally, the clos- card slots, depending on the model. With Many so- called custom computer de- er to the source that the end -user is on onboard power supplies, passive back - signs are simply variations on existing the chain, the more responsive service plane options supporting popular buses, themes. They range from custom logos and support is likely to be. Make sure you and mounts for up to 11 disk drives of or color schemes on the metalwork, to have a vendor's support before you make various types, these units provide a high added redundancy of key components, a commitment. As any veteran PC user degree of off -the -shelf system customiz- to special fabrication of a non -standard knows, the need for technical support is ing for high -density I/O or memory- inten- housing. For example, in many communi- not so much a question of if, but of when. sive applications. In order to increase cation applications, deep cabinets won't Note also that the board layout or BIOS operator access to the system chassis, fit, so specially made short -depth chas- may change without notice at any time in 18 -inch, 24 -inch or 30-inch deep slide rails sis are the answer. typical offshore designs, whereas Amer- are also available for quick and easy re- Some manufacturers have their own ican -made PC products tend to have great- moval and repair of hot -swappable or quick- turnaround design engineering er longevity and consistency. For this other components. departments and metal- bending shops, reason, it's a good idea to specify that key Drive options include floppies, flopti- so an unusual or difficult request may be components - such as the CPU, critical cals, IDE hard disks, SCSI fixed disk drives, within their capabilities. feature cards and chassis - are made CD -ROMs and rewritable optical drives. domestically. The long-term advantages All of these are available in full- height or Technical support and stability of this approach may outweigh the cheap- half -height formats. IDE drives are reli- Approximately 75% of PC sales in the er initial prices of offshore components. able and cost less, but don't offer the broadcast market are made by value-add- Next month this column will consider ed resellers (VARs) and system's integra- how to maximize PC system performance. Newbegin is sales engineer at Industrial Computer Source. San tors who supply their customers with line Diego. Respond via the BE FAXback at 913 -967 -1905. fully integrated systems and a high de- 1 6 Broadcast Engineering August 1994 www.americanradiohistory.com jg the fast ignition in the world. A new generation of electronics. You can't misa us! Amsterdam. Sept. 16- 20.1991 Mall 8. Stande 8311 Photokina Cologne. September 22- 27.1991 Ball 61.2. Stand C B lEoam booth) Showbiz Munich. September 24- 26.1994 Stande 302 Sachtler Belt Pack, eNetronic 2: The all the well proven NiCad The Speedcharger. new mains powered 4 battery powers the controlled by its micro - fSachtler's new solid A New whole range of Sachtler re- 5 processor. senses the state ignitors work electro - accordingly. porter daylights. Available state of the battery and char- quickly and quietly nic ballasts Four LEDs in two sizes for 30 and 45 ges it speedily and safely. now in all Sachtler day- for Sachtler's reporter day- indicate how much running minutes of full light output light systems. lights: Batronict for 125W time remains. A switch from a Reporter 200 DI. and 200 W. Batronic 2 for allows selecting the proper Shaped to fit the human electronic ballast for con- Reporter 200 IN- 125 W, 200 W and 270 W. dimmer range for HMI and body and forming a com- tinuous operation of all introducing the latest The Batronics automati- MSR bulbs. pact unit with the Batronic. Sachtler Reponer fixtures. 2 reporter daylight cally sense which one of Eastern Europe: from Sachtler: more light these fixtures is connec- Japan Sachtler Auric Subtler Corp. Vertriebsaesellschan orb H output from 200 watts ted and will power it Germany Segellllegerdamm 67 1 -2 -21 -154 than ever. 12487 Berlin 1R8A (03)3413 -1212 Telephone ill 30, 6 36 4311 Fax (03).3413 -0888 U.S.A.: Headquarters sachtlere Saddler AG The most sophisticated reporter daylight corporation of America ón n New York onice: 81,711, ll terschlelsshel1Ym sachtler nei Munchen system on the market today. By Sachtler. Telephone 10 89132 158 200 Support 8 Lighting Telefa+ 10 891 32 158 227 Te1ev 5 215 340 sac 0 Circle (8) on Reply Card www.americanradiohistory.com Technology News Real -time image retrieval, analysis and backup By Curtis Chan As computers have become faster and 2Kx2K, 60Hz, non -interlace). ory banks of 128MB or 512MB for a total more powerful, there has been consider- The unit also acts as a recorder /player of 512MB or 2GB of storage. The data able movement toward the convergence with frame -accurate timing in response transfer controller card controls all mem- of computer and post -production tech- to commands from a V -LAN controller. ory access from the host via the VME bus nologies. It seems everyone is scram- The graphical interface provides icons as well as the data transfers between bling for on -line broadcast -quality ran- emulating a VTR, such as looping, for- memory and the video I/O board via a dom access. Although this goal has been ward and reverse jog, field /frame still 500MB /s generic digital interface. Option- approached by numerous manufactur- and variable speed playback modes. al modules provide up to 360MHz video ers, many of the current solutions are still Stored sequence duration is increased output at 8-bits/component or 250MHz limited. In another area. HDTV develop- by keeping the data in compact YUV at 10- bits /component. Also, a program- ers typically run software simulations of (4:2:2) format and converting to RGB on mable, real -time color space conversion new algorithms and proposed hardware. the fly. The resulting sequences of imag- matrix is included to enable users to Until recently, the ability to interactively es can then be stored directly to a D-1 store 4:2:2 formatted YUV (or YCrCb) in analyze high-resolution imagery to the DVTR or SMPTE 260M compliant record- the frame buffer and to convert this data smallest detail was usually an expensive er. Similarly, the resolution- independent to RGB upon output. proposition. Finally, there's the detail of Dataview adapter will add another layer Aside from the normal interactive menu finding a way to retrieve and backup these of ECC to the CCIR 601 compliant output and display functions, an overlay option huge amounts of data in or near real time. signal and turn D-1 recorders into pseu- integrates advanced display functional- To many, an ideal solution would have a do real -time data backup units. The re- ity with on- screen control and annota- transparent interface, high compute sult is a removable medium (tape) at a tion features. The gen- lockable digital I/O speeds and high- volume, and random fraction of the cost of present disk stor- provides specialized data interfaces and access while also being cost -effective. It age, with 100GB storage capacity per tape. compliant D-1 (SMPTE 125M) and SMPTE also would have the ability to view full - Combined with computer graphic serv- 260M digital video interfaces. motion imagery, interactively, at progres- ers and on -line storage facilities, the inte- sive and scalable scan resolutions and gration of this type of media manager Taking the byte out of backup input and output real -time digital video allows high- resolution electronic screen- The soon -to-be- released Dataview seri- (including translated computer data) at ing of work in progress, which reduces al digital adapter will address the issues D-1 or better resolution. Viewgraphics the production cycle. Because the scene of computer data backup /archival, high - Inc., located in Silicon Valley, has solu- or image information is stored in RAM, resolution image archival and real -time tions focusing on two of the major road- users can zoom, scroll, perform window- D-1 video I /O, all from one box. The 6U blocks: 1) the ability to quickly access ing and analyze images for artifacts and device uses a VME host interface on the and analyze image media, and 2) the abil- flaws that might otherwise be overlooked. front end, a sophisticated memory and ity to off-load massive amounts of image A Dataview can be connected to the com- controller system, an ECC codec, serial data in real time. The two products, the puter's output, resulting in an additional digital I/O, timing and gen -lock circuits Viewstore 6000 Image Media Manager and layer of data integrity for real -time back- and an RS -422 controller. the Dataview D-1 serial digital adapter, ups of image or visual data. The user gets an interface product that will be a boon to multiple markets. allows existing D-1 (version D-2 is on the Image media management drawing boards) recorders to double as a Who will benefit? made simple true data peripheral, connecting directly Both products will directly impact the Digital imaging techniques also bring to high -end graphics computers for real - broadcasting, film and video post-pro- with them issues of data management time image retrievals and transfers. The duction markets. With Viewstore, broad- and real -time visualization. These prod- secondary ECC circuitry plus read- after- casters, cable companies and HDTV de- ucts are designed to accelerate access write option ensures high data integrity velopers testing new compression algo- to image media and addressing the crit- for backup and restore operations. The D- rithms, can store and interactively ana- ical time element of backups. Viewstore 1 recorder offers 120GB of storage at a lyze (stop to real -time full- motion play- comprises either a stand -alone system fraction of the time and cost. The bottom back with 8x zoom and pan of up to or a multiboard set that can be operated line is new opportunities for D-1 manufac- 10Kx10K images) any resolution RGB or via a stand -alone processor option or turers along with productivity benefits and 4:2:2 format digital imagery. Video out- connected to a workstation via a VME cost savings for the end user. put is programmable to any resolution bus adapter. It consists of a data transfer up to a 360MHz pixel rate (which includes controller board, up to six memory NO For more information on boards, an analog output board and an Viewgraphics, circle (300) Chan is president of Chan and Associates. a marketing consulting optional digital I/O board. on Reply Card. service for audio. broadcast and post- production. Fullerton, CA. Each memory board can have four mem- 18 Broadcast Engineering August 1994 www.americanradiohistory.com WHEN IT CAME TIME TO OFFER A BONUS WITH OUR A82 AND A83 SWITCHERS, WE KNEW YOU'D WANT C11 THING OUTRAGEOUSLY VALUABLE AND TOTALLY WARPED. SO WE'RE GIVING IT TO YOU. You want something incredibly valuable? Buy our A82 or A83 Digital Switcher with a 100 second Cache Recorder. Its multi -element timelines give you visual, independent control of effects on each section of the switcher plus the A57 or any other peripheral devices under switcher control. Then, get this. We'll throw in an A57 Digital Effects System- FREE.' That's tens of thousands of dollars worth of every effect imaginable. Not to mention some unimaginable. But call soon. Even our switchers can't make the A57 price tag dissolve forever. Offer expires 9/30194. 'Buy an A82 or A83 standard 12M1 1 Control Panel 100 second Cache Necmder with I INC and receive a radical the A57 Standard System and Control Panel tree No other discounts apply for Details 415 369.5111 Atlanta 401.451 0637 Chicago 708 6999100 Dallas 211.3854541 los Angeles 818 955.6416 New York 515.939 -9000 San f rancisco 115 599 3078 departure Circle (9) on Reply Card www.americanradiohistory.com Selecting a DAW Searching for the perfect DAW requires a special discipline. There was a time when the mere fact audio can be manipulated without them. that there were digital audio worksta- With the addition of approximately $400 tions was a wonder. This ability to cap- worth of software, these machines can ture and manipulate sound in a comput- provide the same or greater level of per- The Bottom Line er was at once exciting and intimidating formance out of the box as did the previ- to people in the audio community. The ous generation of computers requiring systems that existed were all integrated up to $3,000 of additional DSP hardware. The world digital audio of hardware/software packages. Prices were Some of the newer systems may still re- workstations (DAWs) high and operation often quirky. As the quire a few hundred dollars worth of continues to develop at a technology improved, users began to additional hardware if digital I/O is re- understand that there were trade-offs quired, however. rapid pace. New systems are when choosing one system over another. The need for a digital input and output increasing ease of use, Many of these issues concern the user is actually a lower priority than you might lowering the cost of entry interface, which translates all instruc- at first think. In the digital world there is and expanding capabilities. tions for the computer and displays sta- less need to plan ahead for the inevitable tus and control functions to the user. noise and distortion because of the gen- Naturally, these ever - A good interface should be intuitive, erational losses and console circuitry in widening horizons make a which means it should actually do what it analog production. The mixing and track - prospective purchaser's work looks like it does. A well- designed inter- bouncing process is so clean in DAWs face should present information in a clear that an analog transfer at the beginning even harder. It is therefore and uncluttered manner. A digital audio and end of the process still provides an an appropriate time to workstation interface also should require acceptable broadcast -quality product. review the criteria of choice the minimum of mouse clicks or key- strokes to accomplish its various tasks. for digital audio workstations Although feature sets are important, in the broadcast your exploration of a system's operation environment. must proceed further. Certainly, the lack of some features will rule out some sys- tems for use in a broadcast production environment. Yet, when two or more sys- tems under consideration each cover the basic functions required, make your final choice based on ease of use. Lower entry-level costs The prices for computer capability and storage space have fallen quickly in the last two years. Computers are now using CPUs that either contain DSP chips on the motherboard or are so powerful that DSF. 711011 workstation is DOS -busrd und Harris is a consultant based in Woodacre. CA. Respond via the AK(is BEFA %back line at 913- 967 -1905. designed primarily for radio production. 20 Broadcast Engineering August 1994 www.americanradiohistory.com CC '`he thing is just impossible to CC a looked at DAWs for a GG love this machine! It's 1 screw up! The DM -80's non- Wy ear -no other product I reliable, and user friendly. I destructive editing is the only way to could even come close to the can edit in 1/3 the time, and I wasn't go, and revisions are extremely easy DM -80's price/performance ratio." familiar with disk recorders --the and very quick!" DM -80 is easy to learn and use." -Bill Robinson, -David Esch, Director of Production Director -Michael Cook, Commercial Production WQCD N.Y.. NY Program Director WPNT Chicago KSJJ /KPRB Redmond. OR Broadcast professionals speak out about the DM -80 Digital Audio Workstation! I've been editing on tape half CC l'he DM -80 does more than GG` Te originally chose the CC my life, and was hesitant to give DAWs costing twice as much. / / DM -80 because of its user up "rocking the reels " -but I found It's very rugged -you can set it up and friendliness. Then we discovered the this machine is incredibly easy to forget about it. And it's easy to use." real magic of this device: a promo an- edit with. And its expandable storage take -Tony Diggs, nouncement that normally would put it way ahead of the competitors Chic) Engineer 4 hours can be done in 30 minutes." we compared." WKHK Richmond, VA -Toni Collins, Director -George Zahn, International College of Operations Director Broadcasting & Recording. Darien tt'VXl' Cincinnati GG is like a digital studio in your I lap! The DM -80 is a very afford- able, portable, high quality digital cc -The DM -80 is easy to learn, editing system." GG he DM -80 is a great produc- 1 and once learned...it's fast, Ttion tool -it really changed our -Howard Silberberg, very fast! We also like its clean sound! I like its fast and easy editing Sound Engineer digital sound." capabilities." United Nations Radio N.Y., NY -Bar r_v Witherspoon, -Mike Br 111011, Program Director Production Director WSTO -FM, Evansville. IN KODYIKXNP, North Platte, NE We couldn't say it any better. Call (213) 685 -5141, Ext. 337, or FAX (213) 722 -0911 for more information about the DM -80 Digital Audio Workstation for the magic of hard disk recording and random access editing at your fingertips. Roland PróAudioVideo Circle (19) on Reply Card www.americanradiohistory.com Another area where additional functionality has been added in- volves multimedia and interactive A buyer's guide information presentation /retriev- al. Some broadcasters may be able to DAWs to reuse their archives and devel- By Dave Harris and op new products for the interac- Skip Pizzi, technical editor tive market. For productions that will require In preparation for a DAW demo or an exhibit the synchronization of audio to visit, ask yourself the following questions: Quicktime or other video formats, it is paramount that the selected How many signals do I need to record onto DAW have that ability. Adding such the hard disk or play out of the system The Roland DM-80 is a cost-effective DAW using at one time? a proprietary platform for 8-track operation. capability to an existing system Optional Mac -based control software allows up can be as painless as buying and How many tracks do I need to mix together installing additional software, or to 32-track operations. at any one time? (Remember that nearly infi- it can be impossible, depending nite track bouncing is possible.) on the DAW. Often, a system orig- Application -specific designs inally purchased with audio-only Do I need digital audio I /O? As more DAW systems are introduced, applications in mind falls into the another recent trend has focused on a latter category. In such cases, add- Will I need to play back tracks at the same particular usage area, such as vid- time I am recording? eo post or radio news production. Will I need to sync the audio to time code? This allows a narrowing of func- tionality, which provides the ad- What plug -in functions will1 need? Do third- vantage of easier (and perhaps party applications exist for this system? faster) use and a shorter learning curve. In some cases, this has also Do I need a system that requires an add -on led to the development of specific DSP card? DSP-card systems usually have hardware or interfaces, such as several I/O options (S /PDIF, AES /EBU, *4dBm random access video linked to balanced analog), while systems without a audio files, which is now available card are limited to -IOdBV unbalanced ana- log stereo In and out. on a number of DAW systems. If your intended use of a DAW is SADiE from Studio Audio and Video is a Win- Will I be networking this DAW with other a limited to particular type or style dows-based system featuring fast, user- friendly computer-based systems? of production, remember this editing and mixing of up to eight tracks. when considering which systems Do 1 require any integrated machine-control may be appropriate. ing synchronization capabilities functions for external devices (VTRs, ATRs, requires that a new system be external processors)? Expanding system capabilities purchased. A frequently asked question when ex- Audio processing is another area What backup format options are available, and exactly what data is stored? How long ploring DAWs involves how many chan- of DAW functionality that is devel- does the backup procedure take? nels the system can record or playback oping nicely in numerous manu- simultaneously. The answer is not always facturers' systems. One new idea Once you have a clear picture of your re- obvious even after inspecting the hard- bears some notice. It borrows quirements, ask the person selling the system ware and the software manual. from a software concept that has if it has what you're looking for. If so, you have Consider one popular system where been used in computer graphics covered the specifications and it's time to try the hardware that comes with the system applications for some time - the out the system. You may be able to arrange for has four input and output connectors. An plug -in. A plug -in is a specialized a system to be loaned to you or your facility so observation might lead you to conclude piece of software that provides you can get the feel of the interface for an extended period under real working conditions. that four audio signals can be recorded limited but high -quality functions. If you can't get an extended demo with the once. now, has or played out at After reading the Until this approach not product, you will have to rely on your first software manual, however, you will find become popular in audio produc- impressions of the interface. Note the number that only two of the inputs or outputs can tion software. Where they have of times you must click or keystroke to accom- be used at one time. existed, plug -ins have been re- plish common production tasks. Does the pro- Now you may feel that you have discov- stricted to use with a single com- gram require you to move your mouse hand ered that this is a 2- channel system, yet pany's system. Such functions from the mouse to the keyboard and back or you may need to look further. The un- have included noise reduction, can you leave one hand on the mouse and the used capacity of this system's DSP board multiband parametric equaliza- other on the keys? Is it possible to move a piece of audio forward or backward in time? has been activated by a third -party soft- tion, dynamics processing (limit- Ask for a list of users in your area that you ing, ef- ware developer whose inexpensive prod- compression, expansion), could contact. This list will probably be select- uct converts the original 2-channel sys- fects (echo, reverb, flanging) and ed by the vendor to give the best impression of tem to a 4- channel system. In addition to resolution conversion (16-bit to the product, but get in touch with them any- the channel expansion, other high-value 8-bit, for example). way. Ask them how the product performs when features, such as mixing and track slip- Now, however, a standard has the going gets tough. ping are added by this optional piece of been proposed to allow one plug- To help with your search, Table I (right) notes software. This illustrates the need for in to work with any number of each DAW's primary application area. Keep in many systems may be configured thoroughness in your evaluation of to- DAW systems. This could allow a mind that for equally useful application in other areas. day's DAW marketplace. user to put together a minimal 22 Broadcast Engineering August 1994 www.americanradiohistory.com PRIMARY APPLICATIONS Audio PLATFORM for Radio News Music Gen'I Reply MFR SYSTEM MODELS level) Prod. Prod. Prod. Audio Carda (Min. video BEFORE DD1000 Prop X X 312 Akai DR4d Prop X 313 YOU CAN LIFT AKG DSE 7000 386 X 314 AMS Neve AudioFile Prop X 315 YOUR FINGER Audion VoxPro Mac X 316 Labs Augan 408 OMX Prop X 317 FROM THE Avid Mac Audiovision X 318 Technology Q adra "GO TO" BUTTON, Basys D -CART Prop X 319 CEDAR CEDAR Prod. 386 320 Audio System THE VIRTUAL Audio- Mac II X 321 media II Pro Mac X X 322 Tools 2.0 RECORDER' Digidesign 386SX Session 8 323 or Mac Sound IS ALREADY Mac II X 324 Tools II Digital The CardD 386 X X 325 Audio Labs THERE. Sabre Prop X 326 Digital Audio Research SoundStation Prop X 327 Doremi Mac II WAITING. DAWN II X X 328 Labs w /Sys 7 Fairlight Fairlight Prop X X 329 ESP MFX 2 Foundation Fostex Prop X 330 2000 Finally, a Broadcast Quality Innovative Software 386 w /sound Quality Audio X X 331 Card Picture that keeps pace with Software Workshop your Digital Audio Workstation, Korg SoundLink Prop X 332 you Lexicon Opus Prop X X 333 frame for frame. Whether Micro are slowly scrubbing audio or Technology MicroSound 386 X X 334 Unlimited searching a two hour feature, the Mac Ilx' OSC Media DECK II Mac AV or X X 335 a Products Virtual Recorder displays PowerPC ProDisk crystal clear picture locked to Otani Mac II X X 336 PD -464 Pacific your workstation. And at a price Recorders & ADX Mac II X X 337 Engineering that will make you a believer. The Roland DM -80 Prop X X 338 Virtual Recorder' is plug and SADiE Disk SADiE 486 X X 339 Editor play compatible with nearly Sonic Mac II X X 340 every major brand of DAW. Sonic Quattro Solutions Sonic Mac 11 X X 341 Station II Spectral Audio 486/33 X X 342 Synthesis Engine ScreeenSound Prop X X 343 SSL Scenaria Prop X 344 OmniMix Prop X 345 Studer Dyaxis II Mac Ilci X X 346 Virtual Recorder Editech Sunrize Studio 16/ Amiga ASC Audio Video Corporation X 347 Industries AD516 2000 3816 Burbank Blvd. Burbank, CA 91505 Synclavier Synclavier Mac II X X 348 Company Tapeless Studio Tele: (818) 843-7004 Turtle Beach 56k Digital 286/12 X X 349 Systems Rec. System Fax: (818) 842 -8945 Recorder ASC Audio Video C. Of Note: On Mac II platforms, DECK II requires System 7.1 or higher plus DAW hardware and software from Virtual and VR arc trademarks ul DigiDesign, RasterOps or Spectral Synthesis. Circle (20) on Reply Card August 1994 Broadcast Engineering 23 www.americanradiohistory.com Pacific Recorders and Engineering has recently introduced ADX BASIC a cost -effective, self- contained version of the ADX WorkStation. system and later add or upgrade as need- ed, and as software becomes available. A final technology to watch is that of data compression and data reduction as applied to finished audio files in a DAW. This promises to have a profound influ- ence on the way digital audio production is done in the future. It is well -known that uncompressed digital audio files can be- come quite large. The general rule of 5MB per track -minute typically produces raw original files that can range into multiple AnthroCarts! gigabytes. AnthroCarts will knock your socks off! 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This has become another software plug -in possibility, allowing the means to decode reduced audio files to be con- tained in inexpensive playback software or even stored along with the audio file itself. This technology is in its infancy and bears watching. 800 -325 -3841 Digital audio workstations are matur- ing. If you can't budget for a world-class 3221 NW Yeon St. production system now, take advantage Portland, OR 97210 of the many useful and less-expensive ANTI-RO Fax: (800)325-0045 systems that are available. They will pro- vide you with some real digital produc- GSA contract no GS-00E-5040A. Available for OEM applications. Prices from $ 149.00 tion experience and improve your facili- Anthro, AnthroCart and Technology Furniture are registered trademarks of Anthro. ty's audio programming. www.americanradiohistory.com Now Available to Developers and OEMs Digital Video Building Bloçks Choose the pieces you need to build your application. 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You owe it to yourself to check out our PROVLN state -of- the -art- hardware and the best software development tools in the business. To s " r market, Matrox Digital Building Blocks are backed by the outstanding techn -, rrt team that has made Matrox a leading supplier of graphics, video and i t ? solutions to OEMs the world on er. For more inf Ion call 1- 800 -361 -4903 or (514) 685 -2630 Male Studio. Matrox Digital Video Building Blocks and Matrox Animation Xpress are tr.:. M Quebec 1 Canada. H9P 2T4 mcitiox =VIDEO PRODUCTS GROUP Circle (21) on Reply Card www.americanradiohistory.com Audio processing for broadcast production Audio processing in the production studio has come a long way lately. By Curtis Chan Not only are today's audio processing channel configurations, which in many systems cheaper than their predeces- cases can be linked. sors, but they offer higher sonic quality Some newer units use FET technology and more powerful features, as well. to emulate the sound of tubes. Tube or The Bottom Line Broadcasters should examine analog and synthesized tube designs favor even-or- digital processors for their production der harmonics over odd-order harmon- Broadcasters are always suites within three major categories: 1) ics, resulting in a subjectively smoother limiters and gates; 2) equal- sound (to some ears) across a heavy looking for a competitive compressors, izers and spectral enhancers; and 3) ef- compression curve. edge to sell their services fects devices. and airtime. On the hard- These production processing systems from the ware side, that edge may are generally in a separate class on -air audio processor used by broad- Production processing come in the form of devices cast stations to control and tailor their systems are in a that give a station a unique signal as it goes to the transmitter. (See separate class from aural presence. Gaining such the related article, "Dynamic Range Pro- audio cessing and Intelligibility," p. 32). Produc- the on-air capability continues to tion systems require a wider palette of processor. become more affordable as capabilities coupled with significant ease the systems themselves of operation, so they can be properly used in the heat of a session or a live Because noise gates and compressor/ become more powerful. broadcast. Cost is also an issue because limiters usually work hand -in -hand, many Digital signal processing in many cases, multiple units of a partic- companies combine such functions in (DSP) and a resurgence in ular production processor will be re- one box for more integrated control over quired by a facility. the signal. When properly adjusted, this analog processing are the combination allows significant dynamic keys to this synergy. Compressors, limiters and gates: range reduction to take place without a Current trends concurrent rise in the noise floor during Compressor /limiters and noise gates passages where the instrument or voice are critical in controlling the dynamic is silent. range of audio program material, for live The term "properly adjusted" is criti- on-air and recorded programs. They are cal. It is possible for a misadjusted audio especially helpful on voice (vocalists and processor to do more harm than good. announcers), percussion and bass instru- Therefore, the designers' primary goal ments. Because there may be multiple should be to allow the user to produce channels in need of individually con- the desired effect with a minimum of trolled compression, these types of units adjustment. Interaction of controls, while can be obtained in single, dual or multi- impossible to fully eliminate, should also be minimized. Last, virtually any compe- tent compressor can sound natural if it Chan is president of Chan and Associates. a marketing consulting service for audio. broadcast and post-production, Fullerton. CA. doesn't work hard. The trick is getting a Respond via the BEFAXback line at 913 -967 -1905 . unit to process heavily and naturally. 26 Broadcast Engineering August 1994 www.americanradiohistory.com The ICS -2002 Visual Display Control Station. Your TV stations around the world choose the ICS-2002 when they want the most powerful intercom station available: its backlit supertwist display screen indentifies key functions and puts Station system -wide programming capabilities at your fingertips. Flexibility is just one of the reasons that the Matrix Plus II Needs This intercom system is the new industry standard for high - Station. performance intercoms. With a wide variety of Prefer Push -Buttons? Choose the new ICS-2102 stations, interfaces and Master Station accesories, the Matrix Plus II makes all of your communications easy and trouble -free. The system is fully integrated, with built -in IFB and a comprehensive modular interface system that neatly ties together cameras, two-way radios, telephones, and party -line intercoms. And it comes with the highest level of service and n,v n^t,,, F,s support in the industry. From two to one -hundred stations, there is a Matrix Plus II system that will fit your needs and your budget. Want all the details? Call us at 510 -527 -6666. FROM CLEAR -COM INTERCOM SYSTEMS © 1994 ClearLom Intercom Systems. Domestic Saks: Clear-Corn Intercom Systems Export Division: Clear-Cons International Matrix Plus Il is a trodemork of ClearLom. 945 Cornelia Street, Berkeley, CA 94710. PO Box 302, Walnut Creek, CA 94597. Tel: (510) 527 -6666, Fax (510( 527-6699 Tel. (510( 932.8134, Fax (510) 932 -2171 Circle (23) on Reply Card www.americanradiohistory.com Another design attribute that cover the clock from the bitstream, which is not affects sonic quality is the use Advantages entirely uniform when it is modulated by a digital of either discrete, hybrid or (and disadvantages) audio signal. However, if a low -pass filter is inter- VLSI circuitry. Many compres- posed between the AES/EBU transmitter and re- ceiver, this can cause the position of the bit sor /limiters use a voltage -con- of digital I/O transitions to become much more uncertain. trolled amplifier (VCA) for their greatly increasing the probability that the receiv- central gain block. The distor- By Robert Orbau er will recover a jittered clock. The TOSLINK tion that can be caused by optical connections provided on consumer CD VCAs is well- known. The dis- Since dinosaurs ruled the earth, audio profes- players are particularly prone to this behavior, tortion generally manifests it- sionals have used analog connections between but any long cable will roll off the higher frequen- self as additional unwanted their gear. The advantage of an analog connec- cies (the AES /EBU signal has significant energy spectral components, such as tion is that it is universal. Other than level up to 5MHz) and cause similar problems. harmonic or IM distortion. In differences and balanced vs. unbalanced, there is little that can prevent some sort of signal Mixing digital signals addition, deficiencies in tradi- transfer between the originating and receiving Another important issue regarding digital sig- tional control circuitry often devices. nals in the studio environment is how to mix produce unnatural modula- Analog connections have their well -known them. With analog, there was no problem -a tions of the signal. often re- weaknesses, however. They are prone to hum couple of resistors would do quite nicely. Howev- ferred to as "pumping." "hole - and noise pickup, and long connections can er, digital audio is not nearly as forgiving because punching" and "shivering.- easily cause unacceptable high- frequency loss. mixing must be synchronous. (This also implies Controlling a compressor/ Furthermore, in a complex facility with active that the signals to be mixed must have identical limiter and noise gate is rela- devices in the signal path, levels must be care- sampling frequencies.) The situation is similar to tively easy, and manufacturers fully aligned to prevent amplifiers in the signal video, where mixing two video signals requires path from clipping. that they be timed identically. In digital audio, have had a long time to fine - In a stereo or multichannel facility, cable requirements are not quite as stringent because tune this technology. Specifi- lengths and types must be matched to prevent a DSP mixer will accumulate the serial input cally, control usually centers relative polarity shifts from appearing between bitstreams in a buffer memory until all of the bits on five major functions (with channels. It is all too easy to accidentally swap in a given digital word are available. Only then occasional enhancements to left and right channels, mirroring the stereo are they added, so the video requirement of each section): threshold. com- image. Worse yet, reversing polarity of one chan- exact phase matching between Inputs does not pression, attack, release and nel causes cancellation of the monophonic sum exist in the world of digital interconnect. gain. By combining added func- signal. And for those who worry about absolute Nevertheless, if the digital words are appearing tionality to these primary func- polarity, it is even easier to invert absolute at the inputs at different rates, then the buffer polarity so that speakers pull when they should memory will quickly overflow as it tries to line up tions, frequency -selective gat- be pushing. the words from the different inputs. So identical ing or compression and other Digital I/O solves most of these problems. In sample rates are a must. variations are possible. the common AES /EBU and S /PDIF standards, More advanced compressor/ one cable carries two channels of audio. There New technology to the rescue limiter designs allow two sepa- can be no problems with relative polarity shift Fortunately, the last year has provided solu- rate threshold and ratio set- between channels, channel imbalances, abso- tions to the jitter and sample -rate problems with tings, one for compression and lute polarity inversion or gain shifts to cause the advent of low-cost, integrated asynchronous one for limiting. This allows clipping. If you use AES/EBU properly, status sample-rate-converter (SRC) chips from Analog mild compression (low ratio, bits tell you whether the signal is stereo or Devices and Philips. Within a wide range, these mono, whether it is pre -emphasized and what chips will emit a bitstream that is synchronous to low threshold) to be combined its sample rate is. If you choose your cable the system clock that drives the chips regardless carefully (11011 balanced cable is required), of the sample rate at their inputs. Fortuitously, you can run AES /EBU several hundred feet with they simultaneously remove jitter at their in- no signal loss. Using a balanced -to-unbalanced puts, and the jitter at their outputs is essentially Production adapter with 7511 coax and BNC connectors can as low as the jitter of the system clock driving the extend that distance to several thousand feet. If chips. By placing an SRC at each input of a digital processors you go too far, you'll know it - the receiver will mixer (or any other device where jitter removal is require a wide simply fail to decode the signal. Subtle prob- required), interconnecting a digital studio be- lems are quite unlikely. comes a plus-and-play operation. No house sync palette of is required to ensure that various digital sources capabilities Jitter emit identical sample rates. An input can accom- One subtle problem that can arise in AES /EBU modate any digital signal meeting the standard coupled with transmission is jitter in the clock recovered by for which the receiver is designed (such as AES/ significant ease the receiver. Jitter means that the period of EBU). of operation. each recovered clock cycle is not quite identi- Experience with the Analog Devices chip shows cal to the period of the cycle preceding and that there is only one serious potential problem. following it. If such an unstable clock is used to Internally, asynchronous SRCs require large FIR synchronize a digital-to-analog converter (DAC), filters to do their job. At a 32kHz output sample the resulting frequency or phase-modulation rate, the filter used in the Analog Devices chip is with protective peak limiting - sidebands around the clock frequency and its down approximately 0.5dB at 15kHz. (It's essen- (high ratio, high threshold), for harmonics result in what amounts to modula- tially flat to about 14.5kHz.) So multiple passes example, offering cost- effec- tion noise in the recovered audio. One-bit DACs through SRCs outputting 32kHz may result in tiveness by combining two nec- (like the MASH converter and its cousins) tend significant loss of frequency response at 15kHz. essary functions in a single de- to be more sensitive to this than the more However, because 32kHz is generally only used in vice. On higher- priced units, traditional multibit designs. STLs, this should not be a significant problem. the release shape is selectable To a modest extent, the AES /EBU standard For the common studio sample rates of 48kHz and may have normal, linear itself tends to cause jitter because it is a sell- and 44.1kHz, the new SRC chips are essentially and will usher in a new generation of and exponential release time synchronizing system - the receiver must re- transparent high -performance, easy-to- connect digital studio characteristics. The resulting Orban is chief engineer for Orban, a Hannan International Company. San Leandro. CA. Respond via the BE FAXback line al 913.967. equipment. output can therefore have ei- 1905. ther a "soft -knee" or "cliff -effect" 28 Broadcast Engineering August 1994 www.americanradiohistory.com SHARP METAL. SHARPER ME -1-AL OLJG H! Introducing the 3M BC -Metal videocassette. An judged and destined to popularity. In fact, we extremely sharp, new Betacam SF tape designed wouldn't be surprised if you've already heard about to raise the standards by which all others are it. But if you haven't, rest assured, you will. 3M Audio and Video Markets Division 3M Center, St. Paul, MN 55144 Within the 703 area code: 1-800-831-8726 All other US: 1-800-752-0732 ©1993 3M 3M Circle (10) on Reply Card www.americanradiohistory.com and noise reduction to provide user -selectable low- and high -fre- MOD EQ SELE quency detailing of audio sourc- OUT es. (See Figure 1.) MULTIBAND VARIABLE Off PROCESSOR CROSSOVER The end result is a quieter yet INPUT brighter signal - two attributes PROCESS that are often mutually exclusive ONLY METER when using a standard equalizer. THRESHOLD Such technologies from the pro- ADJUST NOISE fessional audio recording commu- OF- REDUCTION nity are making their way into OUTPUT broadcast production equipment. The end result of this migration is a new breed of highly cost- effec- Figure 1. Block diagram of the Dolby 740 spectral processor an example of the finest directions in tive, fully featured and sonically equalization, using u combination of fixed and adaptive processing. pure peripheral devices that will enhance today's and tomorrow's broad- characteristic, providing a single unit with connection capability will grow more use- casts. enough flexibility to operate as a single ful as the equipment surrounding an au- channel vocal compressor or an overall dio processor iu the production studio program hard -limiter becomes increasingly digitized. Most of the gain reduction devices that * For more information on perform these tasks are analog systems. Spectral enhancers audio processing for but a growing number of recent designs Another signal processing device that broadcast production, use digital technology. at least for con- has become popular recently in broad- circle (309) on Reply Card. trol, if not for actual audio processing. cast circles is the spectral enhancer.r. These See also "Dynamics Processors," Among the latter digital inputs and out- devices fall somewhere between equalii "Effects Processors" and puts are sometimes offered. (See the re- ers. multi -effects units and noise reduc- "Equalizers," p. 54 of the lated article, "Advantages land disadvan- ers. Spectral enhancers typically use a BE Buyers Guide. tages] of Digital I /0 p 28). Digital inter- combination id static and dynamic EQ STANDARD EQUIPMENT. Carfare Patchbays handle every 7512 standard in your plant, from Baseband Video to High Resolution Computer Graphics and, the studio interface standard of tomorrow...Serial Digital. Plus you get the following: WIDEST BANDWIDTH DC - 600MHz LONGEST LIFESPAN "Microswitch" contacts EASIEST INSTALLATION Jacks Screw To Front PERFECTLY COMPATIBLE Your Cords or Ours BEST BOTTOM LINE Less Expensive! Call, or write today for a FREE technical brochure with complete VWJ2-S specifications and the number of your Straight thru 75 S2 te' local Canare dealer. CANA/gE VWJ2 -W 511 5TH Street, Unit G, San Fernando, CA 91340 Normal thru 7552 terminating (818) 365.2446 FAX (818) 365.0479 Circle (12) on Reply Card 30 Broadcast Engineering August 1994 www.americanradiohistory.com There's A Ne Wa To "Mx Score find ReFrìeve D Video In Heal Time. jf, Inrroducing the /Me; Specrru 00 Dish Bi¡aú I IL An .\nthnritul :ruphi.- hnkpcndcnt Ilard..m I . , a ;r Visual computing just got a whole lot easier. Itx taking an opposed to the old UI)R capacity limitations of under a open system approach to storing and retrieving digital video, minute! 1. Each array can provide up to 1(4;I; ttf storage and Cipricos Spectra NM disk array delivers real-time perfor- can be combined with other arrays for addition:11 capacity mance together with unmatched flexibility. Spectra 60(Itl's fault tolerant design and optional redundant power supply assure continuous nn -line performance and no Seamless integration with Silicon ('trophies workstations loss of data. give you the flexibility to switch between digital video appli- cations, i.e. from paint to compttsite to animation to on- or For more information about the Spectra to lo disk army- off-line editing. This impressive versatility eliminates the the nt^w Way to store and retries(lii'itul video, need for "dedicated use" digital disk recorders (1)I)11s) and call us at 1 -800- 727-4669. can save 'otl plenty. In the l's.\ In Elmo:: Spectra 6000's performance characteristics redefine the 2X1111Campus I)ricc 7 Clcreeatcr Place. I.utter Way concept of productivity. Standard S( :Sl-2 drives support real - l'Icmuuth. \I\ i?aal Newbury. Itcrkshirc 14;13 44 I luo sCsl-\1 nC 17?7-)664) FnglantÍ time data transfer rates. Plus. now you can work with storage In \I\:16L'I 55I-401u 14-0 415 \7 Nbh capacities of several minutes of on -line digital video (as Fa. 1612) 551-4002 Fax:1 a) I 635-571 0% CIPRICO Circle (11) on Reply Card www.americanradiohistory.com ployed by many radio stations to create and ment for each function, and operate it Dynamic range maintain maximum loudness at all times. Aes- properly. Power or loudness is a function processing and thetic considerations aside, this aggressive of average levels and these should be mon- type of processing is inappropriate for TV itored using a VU meter rather than a peak - audio because it reduces intelligibility. reading unit. The average levels should intelligibility not vary more than 6dB to 8dB from low By Marvin Caesar Intelligibility can suffer program material levels (other than quiet Speech intelligibility, especially for the En- ambience) to highest level effects. This The arguments for dynamic range con- glish language, depends on consonant recog- range will allow dramatic impact and syl- trol are strong, obvious and well -known to nition. Consonants are typically character- labic emphasis without letting the low lev- broadcasters. If a program has too wide a ized by transients with fast rise times that are els fall too far down. Compressors and dynamic range, listeners /viewers will have rich in harmonics and high frequencies. If the levelers should be used to control average to ride gain in order to bring up low -level integrity of consonant waveforms is dimin- levels in this manner. It's important to dialog and turn down high -level effects. ished, either by dynamic or frequency -re- select devices that are designed to recog- When commercials - often compressed sponse changes, the intelligibility of those nize the relative densities of different sig- to high average levels - come on too loud words will be reduced. nals (unprocessed, "open" audio such as relative to the program material, the dis- An extreme example of this type of loss of live broadcasts vs. heavily processed au- parity is magnified. Often, when the view- intelligibility is the soundtracks for movies dio such as commercials.) er /listener reaches to make such an ad- played on airplanes. It seems that no matter Modulation is defined by peak levels, justment, the channel gets muted or what level you set, or how far you push the ear which are best measured by a modulation switched, and a negative image may be buds into your ears, you still lose a great monitor. In order to maintain the highest formed about the advertiser. The dramat- amount of the dialog. The dynamic range is possible peak levels without overmodula- ic difference in levels between program certainly controlled (footsteps can be as loud tion, a peak limiter should be used. For and commercials is the number one com- as gunfire) but at an unacceptable cost. Thank- point -to -point links with flat response (no plaint about TV audio. Another major cause fully, the problem is rarely so extreme with TV pre -emphasis) a flat limiter should be used. of complaints, especially on channel -pop- audio. However, the 75µs pre-emphasis curve For TV broadcast transmission, the pre - ulous cable systems, is the difference in employed in TV (and FM) transmission can emphasis curve must be taken into ac- audio levels between channels. exacerbate intelligibility problems because it count. This means the peak limiter should If too wide a dynamic range creates prob- often results in the attenuation or distortion be multiband with the pre-emphasis curve lems for TV audio, dynamic range that is of high frequencies. at the input. The peak output ceiling should too constricted is equally undesirable. It is be set to generate 100% modulation in the clearly inappropriate for TV facilities to Advice to broadcasters transmitter. The total amount of peak lim- use the kind of aggressive processing em- In controlling dynamic range and audio iting should not be greater than 8dB to modulation levels, the tasks of a broadcaster 10dB. More than that amount can result in Caesar is president of Aphex Systems Sun Valley. CA. are to define the parameters of acceptable unnatural, overprocessed audio. Respond via the BEFAxback meal 913 967 -1905 dynamic range, choose the appropriate equip- NOTHING REMAINS THE SAME Whatever the size... Worldwide, Storeel can help! it J3 BELAp You can measure... Technology is transforming the tape with the best monitor and the most accurate test set. The FMM -2 /FMS -2 series monitors provide an even greater degree of storage industry. Keeping in touch with precision measurement than ever before... You can measure S/N below customer requirements is our top 90 dB, You can m crosstalk below 85 dB, You can measure separations of better than 70 dB, You can measure frequency response priority. Call Storeel today when space to better than STrORL 0.25 dB, You can measure distortions to lower than 0.01%, and much more... saving becomes your priority. Our uncluttered panels and autoranging voltmeters make these measure- ments a dream 3337 West Hospital Avenue, Post Office Box 80523, Atlanta, Georgia 30341 alEIELAkm CALL 610 -687 -5550 Fax 610 -687 -2686 404 -458 -3280, Fas 404 -457 -5585 ELECTRONICS LABORATORY, INC. Call Today For A Free System Design Consultation LANCAS1 ER AVENUE AT DORSET, DEVON, PENNSYLVANIA 19333 Tailored To Your Individual Requirements Call or write for more information on Betar AM, FM, Stereo, SCA and TV monitors. Circle (13) on Reply Card Circle (14) on Reply Card 32 Broadcast Engineering August 1994 www.americanradiohistory.com ~we r.. 41 . 4. ww w w www w w a w al ` MVO* AAIAwA 111 It n SO #AI11IAAw1S ' ^ B-rolls Production Switchers Fuzzy Freeze Frames Separate Edit Controllers Multiple Source VTRs Costs Things you can cut down on in a room with a VUESM If you want to be on the cutting edge of digital post - channel of character generator and one channel production while cutting down on costs, perhaps it's of digital effects to accomplish all of these time to invest in a room with a VUES. tasks. And with the use of the VSR -11's DRAM This high -powered digital editing system from memory, each source can be used indefinitely NEC consists of a single rack of equipment: a com- without ever performing a B -roll. puter- control workstation, the NEC DTW-102 wipe The compact design of VUES requires generator, a background color generator /shadow less space, less cooling and less maintenance processor, a 20 x10 routing switcher, NEC VUES (because there are no moving parts). Plus, interface, and the real heart of the because VUES utilizes a computer -control workstation, system, the NEC VUES VSR -11 solid there are no expensive production switchers or edit state recorder. controllers to buy. With VUES, all editing functions- If you would like more infor- from wipes and complex mix/effects to multi -layered mation about the finer points of composites -are performed in the VSR -11. Best of VUES, please call us toll -free all, you only need to use one source machine, one at 1 -800- 323 -6656. C 1991 NEC America. Inc. VUES is a trademark n( Vikenphun, Ira. Circle (24) on Reply Card www.americanradiohistory.com Advances in DAT oeconlers New DAT features make the format even more attractive to broadcasters. By Curtis Chan The usefulness of the DAT format has 48kHz sampling rate when recording from been greatly enhanced for broadcasters the analog inputs. This becomes prob- with the recent addition of a standard- lematic if the material is to be used for CD ized, non -longitudinal SMPTE time-code production later at 44.1kHz. The Bottom Line format and a number of other useful fea- Also confronting the consumer -DAT tures. To begin an examination of this user is the Serial Copy Management Sys- Digital audiotape (DAT) new DAT generation, a review of the for- tem (SCMS). Designed to inhibit digital mat's basics is in order. copying of copyrighted material, SCMS recorders have come a long With the exception of one DAT deck will not allow users to make a digital dub way since their introduction that allows recording of each track indi- of a DAT that is itself a digital copy of in the mid- I980s. Today, vidually, the basic DAT format is stereo - "protected" audio. In other words, when both tracks are recorded simultaneous- using consumer DAT equipment, it is pos- DAT recorders' portability, ly. Three types of signals are necessary sible to make a digital DAT dub from a long recording time and for the correct operation of a DAT sys- published CD, but a second -generation digital nature make them tem: 1) PCM audio, 2) subcode data, and digital DAT dub cannot be made of the 3) the Automatic Track Ending (ATF) signal. first DAT. (SCMS is sometimes described ideal for on-location record- The PCM audio is usually a 16-bit linear, as "allowing digital children but not grand- ing and post- production 44.1kHz- or 48kHz- sampled signal with children.") Although SCMS has no effect work. The more recent substantial error correction. Subcode on recordings made via analog inputs, data can include Absolute Time (or A- the best solution for broadcasters is advent of time- code-equipped Time, which counts real time in hours, avoidance of SCMS- equipped devices. DAT machines have further minutes and seconds from the head of This implies the exclusive use of profes- reinforced the format's the tape), several forms of ID markers, sional DAT equipment. and SMPTE /EBU time code (sometimes Another potential flaw among consum- usefulness as a replacement referred to as R- time). The ATF signal er DATs (or even low- priced pro-DATs) is technology and extended its ensures accurate tracking during play- the poor quality of the mic pre-amps and/ livelihood as a viable back on any DAT unit, similar to those or the lack of phantom power for con- used by various video formats. denser mics. acquisition and production Although DAT is a tightly specified stan- format. dard format, some broadcasters have learned the hard way that not all DAT recorders are created equal. Particular- ly vexing are the differ- ences between consum- er and professional DAT units. Consumer models are generally limited to a Chan is president of Chan and Associ- ates, a marketing consulting servce for The Panasonic SV4100 is designed for on-air use, with a 5-point audio, broadcast and post- production. Fullerton, CA. Respond via the BE autolocator and instant -start RAM buffer. It can also be externally FAXback line at 913- 967 -1905. synchronized to a variety of sources. 34 Broadcast Engineering August 1994 www.americanradiohistory.com r,rr,,,PUU° ?ERCp PAOCFSSING/. g 1 l SIGNAL The true test of a format is that it keeps getting better. Supercam is yet another milestone S -VHS, which is rapidly becoming the HIGHER QUALITY AT LOWER COST. in the development of Panasonic's world's most widely used professional Now, broadcast and professional S -VHS video recording systems. video recording format. videographers can get their hands on MORE CREATIVE CONTROL EXTREME LOW LIGHT WITH DSP. PERFORMANCE. the most advanced digital camcorder Supercam features Panasonic's Today, S -VHS provides high technology for a fraction of the cost EMMY -award winning Digital Signal quality images -even in extreme of typical broadcast studio and EFP Processing, 3 CCD camera technology low light conditions -for most cameras. for consistent high quality images with professional applications including: Panasonic's Supercam. Further greater reliability. ENG, sports and event videography, proof that Panasonic's S -VHS keeps Supercam means the world's most post -production, computer graphics, looking better all the time. advanced digital camera technology is and on -air operations for broadcast, Panasonic now available to users of Panasonic's cable and corporate television. Broadcast &Television Systems Company For more information call: 1- 800 -528.8801 (Upon request enter product code 21) One Panasonic Way, Secaucus, NJ 07094. www.americanradiohistory.com Portable DATs partment. High -end units Portable DAT recorders are noth- sport four motors that ing new, but the latest models offer eliminate the need forcom- a number of features that may be plex linkage and belts, re- welcomed by broadcasters. Sever- sulting in a longer life ex- al of these new units offer trans- pectancy and smoother port-control and other buttons that tape operation. each have unique tactile charac- Some units also have a teristics, allowing the experienced built -in head warmer that operator to manipulate the con- allows operation through trols without visual inspection. wide temperature and hu- To minimize dust and moisture in Otani DTR -90 has detachable front panel /remote control and offers midity variations. Not sur- the cassette well, a tight gasket is time code, instant-start memory buffer and edit -preview RAM buffer/ prisingly, most portable often found surrounding the com- interface. DATs designed for profes- sional use are built with a rugged, road -worthy chas- sis. Some consumer -type portables are even smaller and lighter, but are far less robust and reliable. Most professional portable DATs offer AES /EBU and IEC958 (consumer) digital audio I/O, allowing signals to remain in the digital domain from acquisition to mastering. Emulating the analog Nagra recorders that they aim to replace, high - end portable DATs offer a variety of mic- powering, filtering and attenuation fea- tures along with limiting and polarity re- versal. On some machines, the settings of these controls can be stored in memory for easy recall. Most portable DATs offer multiple mon- itoring modes that allow the broadcaster to listen via headphone in stereo, mono- sum or one-channel-only modes. A built - in speaker is also provided in most cases. Some models offer a stereo MS decoder in the monitor section, while others offer a predefined shuttle speed for fast listen- ing or cuing. Some DAT field recorders use 4-head drums, allowing off-tape confidence mon- itoring and punch in /out capability. Time - New BELDEN' DlcrrAL AUDIO CABLES... code display may also be offered for 110 OHM IMPEDANCE DESIGN PROVIDES monitoring in the field. Because a porta- ERROR -FREE TRANSMISSION OVER AUDIBLE EXTENDED DISTANCES. ble DAT may be used in conjunction with film or video production equipment, new- Suppose you need a digital audio cable that meets the er units allow multiple power options, RESULTS. latest AES /EBU standard? Simple! It has to be high flex? Or NEC' rated? You got it! A patch cable? Or snake? including Betacam power adapters, NP- No problem when you specify Brilliance" from Belden. 1B-type cells, GEL cells, power straps or, of course, AC power supplies. Belden has developed three new Brilliance cable lines to meet the digital In addition to slate mic and tone- gener- audio needs of your television, radio, post -production or recording /' studio. And each offers tight impedance tolerance and low ating functions, most portable DATs also capacitance unbalance to minimize signal reflections and jitter. come with full subcode address capabil- IDs, High Flex Cable (Belden No. 1696A) ity, such as start IDs, end program numbers, blank search and error IDs that Cables available in 1 pair CM rated (Belden are useful for marking and cataloging No. 1800A), 1 pair CMP rated (No. 1801A), a Because a few subcod- and 2 pair Zip -style CM rated (No. 1802A) sections of tape. ing details were left unspecified in the NEC Rated Snake Cables in 4 pair DAT standard, however, some subcode (Belden No. 1803A), 8 pair (No. 1805A), DAT and 12 pair (No. 1806A) data recorded on one machine will not be recognized upon playback on an- Get winning results every time. Call 1.800BELDEN -4 other model or brand. Some units also and request New Product Bulletin No 105. carry a unique ID system that monitors all operating areas. The user determines the setup parameters and if any discrep- ancy occurs, the deck will send a mark to O Coprnght 1991. Belden inc the tape for review later. Alerts can come raávume ol Ilr Natono1 ?we RohcM1an Assaufmn, awry, MA in the form of blinking LEDs, screen icons Circle (27) on Reply Card 36 Broadcast Engineering August 1994 www.americanradiohistory.com Weirdo on line one. Bitter psycho on two. Irritated Technologically, the TS612 features built -in mix minus, to compli- mom on three. Religious zealot on four. Talk shows ment Gentner's digital audio enhancement. It has two DCT seem so simple. At least your phone system is, if Superhybrids, automatic level control, dual air control surfaces, it's the new TS612 from Gentner. optional screener control surface, and dual audio bus operation. You also have DCT connection to your hard disk or studio PC, for The TS612 is a six -line (expandable to 12) screening and controlling calls. But what would you expect - the Telephone System. It features Gentner's TS612 was designed specifically for talk shows. Direct Connect TechnologyTM, which allows you to hook it into a regular See your Gentner.rep today, or call phone line. Plus, its built -in handset and 1 -800- 945 -7730 and make your life keypad eliminate the need for another easier with the TS612. After all, screening phone. With the TS612, you that psycho's still on line two. can talk to callers (even the Pizza Guy) off -air, while other callers are on -air. Gentner CONArr.[ WWI I -800-945-7730 Circle (28) on Reply Card www.americanradiohistory.com or audible alert tones in the head- priced, however. Most DAT phone output. manufacturers try to accom- modate users by offering a Production DAT recorders modular design, allowing With the new breed of cost-effec- decks to be configured for tive modular digital multitrack re- audio mastering, post-pro- corders using S -VHS and 8mm tape, duction editing, broadcast DAT manufacturers are in a creative The Foster D-30 features a super twist display like those h,und on some playback or sound library frenzy to integrate more bang for laptop computers. It includes many advanced features, such as time applications. the buck. New models of profes- code, oB-tape monitoring, scrubbing, edit previewing, auto-cuing to These high -end decks are sional production DAT recorders are first audio, instant start and RS-422 control rack -mountable and rugged. a testament to this. Many of these Designed for heavy studio decks are more expensive than their pre- featured units ranging to $12,000 and be- and edit suite use, the units are surround- decessors, with prices for the most fully yond. Other models are quite reasonably ed by a thick sheet metal outer layer with shock mounting on the transport. In many cases, high -quality stamped metal parts are used instead of the plastic items used on lower- priced models. If You Liked Other new features include varispeed controls (usually around ±12.5%), en- Mark Antennas hanced autolocation and improved edit- ing. In the latter area, implementation of jog/shuttle knobs, memory buffers and Before, EDL -type editing control have made in- tensive editing on DAT a practical reality. This allows a production to use the same recording format from acquisition to air, and stay within the digital domain as much as possible. Editing on these sys- tems gives the user precise control based on SMPTE /EBU time -code or film/video frame rates. Cross(ades are available across a wide range (up to three seconds duration, definable in 1ms increments), and crossfade curves are selectable for log or linear ramps, with separate time settings for fade -in and fade-out. Because the DAT subcode can be ac- cessed independently from the audio data, SMPTE time code can be pre-striped, post-striped or recorded simultaneously with audio. One time-code rate or type can even translate to another during play- Wait Till You back. Like VTR editors, auto-edit, re- hearse and review modes provide auto- See Us Now. matic punch -in /out and review of the edit at preselected points. Cue -point storage The good news for you, our customer, is and edit -history recall are also offered. we are now a part of COMSAT RSI, a Jog -wheel manipulation of audio stored worldwide telecommunications leader. in a RAM buffer makes precise cuing a simple and "analog -like" process. COMSAT RSI's resources will Memory buffers are also finding use for strengthen our ability to manufacture new instant -start DAT playback, making the format more suitable for on-air use. A microwave and wireless products for the similar RAM feature can be applied to industry. Access to new technical pull -up and pull -down functions for film/ video transfers. capabilities will boost our R &D efforts, Taking a page from the VTR manufac- bringing you newer products faster. turer's book, some newer DAT decks in- And thanks to COMSAT RSI's global corporate control panels that can be de- tached for use as a remote -control and distribution networks, our growth potential status -indicator. A variety of more tradi- is virtually limitless. tional wired and wireless remote con- trols are also available on many models. So we invite you to get reacquainted Regarding converters, current DAT re- 1757 S. Winthrop Drive with us under our new name: corders typically offer either 16-bit linear Des Plaines, IL 60018 COMSAT RSI, Mark Antennas. or 64x oversampling ADCs with 18-bit 8x 708-298-9420 oversampling DACs. Sampling rates dif- We think you'll like what you see . Fax: 708. 635.7946 fer among models, but expect to find at Circle (30) on Reply Card 38 Broadcast Engineering August 1994 www.americanradiohistory.com Advanced wireless intercom system Vega Q600 Rugged, reliable, metal bilities required for these demanding control, adjustment, and monitoring beltpack remotes applications. provisions are also included. The Q600 system provides continu- The PL -2 VHF mini- receiver pro- Hybrid UHFNHF operation to ous. full -duplex, hands -off communi- vides a high -performance, -cost conserve scarce VHF low frequencies cations between up to six people plus solution to providing one -way "listen - an unlimited number of "listen- only" only" communications. Very often, in- Inexpensive VHF monitor users. dividuals need to receive instructions receivers to lower system The QTR -600 beltpack remotes are but are not required to speak. Using costs extremely easy to use and provide op- PL -2 receivers for this application High -quality, low- noise, eration similar to that of hard -wired avoids the expense of additional full low- distortion audio intercom beltpacks. They are compat- two -way remotes and can signifi- ible with popular dynamic or electret cantly lower the cost of a typical sys- Up to six beltpacks per headsets, such as Beyer, Clear -Com, tem. The PL -2 is fully compatible master station and Telex. The cases are welded aircraft with the Q600 system and is designed Designed specifically for aluminum alloy with a high- impact. to provide reliable communications in broadcast and production molded Cycolac (ABS) control panel the most demanding RF environments. that will withstand the roughest use. When the job demands hands -free, Directly compatible with all One QX -600 master station sup- full- duplex operations in the most de- standard wired intercoms ports up to six QTR -600 remotes with manding environment, go with the Many advanced circuit and "hands- free" two -way communica- Vega Q600, the system recommended system design features tions. and an unlimited number of by professionals worldwide. PL -2 receivers for listen -only users. In the set. studio or on the Vega's Circuitry is provided to interface exter- ireless intercom systems are the nal line audio with the system or to choice of professionals who demand link two QX -600s into a I2 -user sys- a MARK IV company ruggedness, reliability, broadcast -qual- tem. The master station is directly ity audio, and a full set of professional compatible with all standard wired in- 9900 East Baldwin Place El Monte, California 91731 -2294 features. Designed from the ground up tercom systems such as Clear-Corn. Telephone: (818) 442 -0782 for broadcast and production work. RTS. ROH. Telex, and many others Toll -Free Telephone: 800- 877.1771 Fax: (818) 444 -1342 the Q600 UHF/VHF system provides via internal programming switches. A FaxBack: (818) 444 -2017 all the functions and technical capa- local headset position and extensive Toll -Free FaxBack: 800-274-2017 Circle (29) on Reply Card www.americanradiohistory.com least 48kHz, 44.1kHz and 32kHz. Some ronment without post-striping the tape. units also offer a -0.1% mode for The latest generation of DAT hard- 47.952kHz and 44.056kHz. AES /EBU and ware has helped establish a solid niche S /PDIF (electrical or optical) digital I /0s for the format among the professional are standard. For control, many decks community. The price of a DAT cassette provide (as either standard or optional is about one -third of equivalent- length equipment) RS -422, RS-232C and TTL- reel-to-reel tape, with the additional compatible parallel I /0s. This can allow benefit of space savings for hardware DAT decks to be integrated into broad- and storage of tape. Recent enhance- cast automation systems as a cost -ef - ments, such as RAM buffers and time fective and high -quality long-form stor- code add significant utility for broad- age medium. External word sync and cast applications. Combining these ad- video sync are also offered on many vantages with DAT's inherently high au- decks, which allow synchronization with dio quality should keep the format pop- incoming digital audio or analog video ular among broadcasters for years to signals. come. SMPTE time -code generator /readers The Sony PCM-E7700 is a portable, 2-deck DAT are available for an increasing number editor that offers time-code-based EDL and auto- assemble operations, a graphical editing display, of DAT machines, either as standard or off-tape monitoring, a real -time jog/scrub wheel optional features. This not only gives and double -speed edit assembly or dubbing. ty For more information on profes- the deck a capability to stripe tapes sional DAT recorders, circle the with time code, but also to chase-lock run either continuously or in a time-of- following numbers on Reply Card. and synchronize to incoming code. Sync day mode. offset time is adjustable, and the offset A few non-time-code decks can provide Fostex (301) time can be captured instantly for later a time and date stamp with every start ID, HIM (302) recall. Available frame rates typically are which can be handy for cataloging. Addi- Otani (303) Panasonic (304) 24, 25, 29.97 (DF /NDF) and 30fps. Jam tionally, some decks can read A -time from Sonosax/Stelladat (305) synching is and a non-time-code recorder and translate it commonly available, Sony (306) some DAT decks offer the ability to record into a SMPTE /EBU time-code emulation, Studer Editech (307) and display time-code user -bit informa- allowing the audio to be easily integrated Tascam (308) tion. Time-code generators can usually into a time-code-based production envi- Finally... Affordable 20 -bit technology from Lightwave Systems Digital Audio Fiber Optic System 70 dB Mic Preamp built-in Now, sonic purity can be yours without interference. 48V Phantom Power Fibox Features: Less than $2,000 108 dB dynamic range Ride the Lightwave into the future. Call us today at 2.5 miles transmission distance (800) 525 -3443 for more information on the remarkable .004 THD new Fibox. LJGHT` 'AVE SYSTEMS, INC. 900 Jackson Street, Suite 700, Dallas, Texas 75202 Phone (214) 741 -5142 0 Fax (214) 741 -5145 Circle (32) on Reply Card 40 Broadcast Engineering August 1994 www.americanradiohistory.com The Only Thing It Can't Do Is Open A Bottle Of Wine. Telex V -Series headsets do it all. Their unique modular design make them the most versatile headsets you can buy, with interchangeable mic and cable assemblies that let you use one headset for most any application. Comfort and sound quality are second to none, with revolutionary floating earcups that automatically adjust to any head size. And, like our other Telex headsets used by pilots and NFL coaches, the durability is built in. Of course, parts and accessories are easy to get and always available. See and hear for yourself. For the Telex pro audio dealer nearest you, call 1 -800- 392 -3497 (416- 431 -4975 in Canada). The VSerie& Maybe we should b we called tt the swiss army headset /7»r I -Series beads" mod" V-220 and V-210 ,\lade all Inuit- nu tine I 19», lak'\ t 1MIU11URxathMp Itx TELEX Circle (31) on Reply Card www.americanradiohistory.com Intercoms Today's high -tech systems are computer -based. By Bob Cohen Talented engineers can equip facilities headset construction has resulted in a with the latest stateof-theart equipment wide range of units that fill many headset and make it all work. However, wise engi- needs, from ultralightweight to high -noise neers remember that high -tech boxes environment to general purpose, all with aren't worth anything if the people oper- great audio and exceptional comfort. The Bottom Line ating them can't communicate with each Those who have used Telco 52BW -type other. It's the staff's skill, creativity and headsets understand how important teamwork that keeps viewers interested comfortable headsets are. Modern technology has and keeps shows on the air. The intercom Single-channel PL systems serve well caught up with broadcast system ties those people together and when key personnel must relay instruc- intercoms, and the results allows them to work in a harmonious, tions to numerous support staff. For ex- are powerful, flexible and coordinated way. ample, directors must be able to talk to Today's intercoms give facilities reli- people who run cameras, graphics, easy-to-use communications able, easy -to-use communications sys- prompters, CGs, engineering and others systems. Many times, facility tems that surpass anything available. all at the same time. intercom systems are taken Most facilities use the latest in party-line As long as the director is the only per- (PL) systems, which usually do the job. son talking, this system works fine. But for granted or thrown to- Many facilities, however, are turning to when other communications need to gether at the last minute. the latest computer -based systems for happen, a single party-line soon turns to Either of these situations can the ultimate in flexibility and communi- confusion as people's voices step on each cations power. other. The problem can be solved with spell disaster when the multiple party-line channels, each used system goes down. Having a Let's party by groups of individuals who need to functional intercom system For decades, party-line intercom sys- speak to each other. Each group is put on tems were the standard in North Ameri- their own party-line. lndividuals who need that complements a facility's ca. The party-line concept has grown by to can break into any group using master communications needs can quantum leaps since early poor-quality, multichannel intercom stations. mean the difference between low- level, carbon microphone -based sys- But even with the advances, party-line tems were built into camera CCUs in the systems alone often don't serve the needs getting a hot story on the air 1950s. Those systems have evolved into of a modern radio or TV facility. As pro- or losing it completely. sophisticated multichannel systems based duction capabilities become more sophis- on distributed amplifier, line-bridging ticated, so do intercom system require- architecture capable of interfacing to exter- ments. More equipment is being con- nal communication systems and devices. trolled by more operators, which requires Modern PL systems provide low- noise, more communication capability to coor- high -level, full- bandwidth audio quality dinate activities. Intercom installations that reduces listening fatigue over long can require 25 -pair cable wired through- listening periods. The distributed ampli- out, and once installed, it is difficult to fier, line- bridging concept makes it possi- change. ble to add and subtract users (stations) Then there is the problem of interfac- from a channel without affecting audio ing, cameras, IFBs, 2 -way radios and tele- level or quality. Additionally, advanced phone circuits often sounding like mush, thanks to conversions from their 4-wire Cohen is president of Clear -Corn. Berkeley, CA. audio circuitry to the standard 2 -wire 42 Broadcast Engineering August 1994 www.americanradiohistory.com Meet the hottest... woo ...UHF wireless Red hot performance and solid reliability... The UCR190 narrow -band UHF receiver utilizes the Belt -pack and plug -on transmitters are available in proven UNICHANNEL© design with helical resona- both narrow -band and wide -band UHF versions. Audio tor front -end filtering and narrow band crystal IF outputs are balanced XLR types with separate monitor filtering. An all new dual -band compandor provides outputs. All housings and panels are made of machined low distortion and a high signal to noise ratio. Aimed aluminum for a precise fit and lasting ruggedness. at broadcast ENG applications, the UCR19O receiver Shock mounted crystals and surface mount components provides unmatched interference and IM rejection. withstand the toughest field use. The 195 Series wide -band UHF system utilizes Inside Lectrosonics ±75KHz deviation for outstanding dynamic range and UHF products you signal to noise ratio. An exclusive dual -band will find advanced compandor and pulse counting detector proviae audio RF engineering, quality well suited to the most demanding digital superb mechanical recording techniques. The balanced audio output is design and the very adjustable from mic level up to +8dBm studio levels. latest in surface mount technology. More transmitter output power, plus higher receiver This is the present sensitivity than any other brand we've tested, all adds state of the art in up to more operating range than you will probably wireless systems. ever need. We invite you to compare these systems with Call for more information any other wireless system, at any price. 800-821 -1121 and a free copy of the 50 page -Wireless Guide^ LECTROSONICS Distributed in Canada by MILLER CANADA 581 Laser Rd., Rio Rancho, NM 87124 USA Ph: (505) 892 -4501 FAX: (505) 892 -6243 Circle (25) on Reply Card www.americanradiohistory.com intercom system. But because there was technology to broadcast communica- integrate the matrix with party-line tech- no better solution, broadcasters put up tions systems. Matrix -based intercom nology for the best of both worlds: point- with these systems for decades. networks provide flexible, powerful voice to-point communications, as well as plug- communications throughout facilities in party -line technology. Modern miracles and interface to the outside world. In Manufacturers are making matrix inter- The advent of computer -controlled these systems individual intercom sta- com systems as small as 2x2 and as large switching matrices allowed broadcast tions, telephone lines, talent IFBs and 2- as 450x450. The needs of most facilities facilities to replace huge audio and video way radios, are connected to a comput- can be met with a system less than patch panels with routing switchers. er-controlled central switching network 100x100. KABC -TV in Los Angeles, has These modern miracles permit any or matrix. Then, through software assign- gone on -line with a new matrix -based source to be sent to any destination with ments, any one person can be connected system after outgrowing its 15-year-old the push of a button or two. to any other person or group of people party-line system. The system will allow It didn't take the intercom business long with no patching or wiring required. (See up to 100 ports, however, current needs to catch on, applying switching matrix Figure 1.) Advanced systems seamlessly require only 72, leaving plenty of room for expansion. Future plans call for inter- facing the intercom with the station's computerized automation system. RI Flexibility to bend over backward Whether it's large or small, a matrix - based system can be configured for al- Click most any intercom application imagin- able, and can be reconfigured instantly. Stations can be programmed to commu- Miller nicate with each other as party-line or point -to-point consoles. Different individ- uals can be grouped together for single - M I L L E R button communications, and clear LCD Pro -Lok is only one of or LED electronic labels over every key many innovative features let users know exactly who they can speak which Miller have with at any time. combined in their NEW For example, newscasts might come Series II Carbon Fibre from Studio A, except for the 5 p.m. show, which is live from the newsroom. In the and Alloy EN(EFP afternoons, a studio talk show in Studio B camera tripods. Pm 11A - Single turn clamp is taped, and on Saturday afternoons it's and uk.ne selff adjustment for the hie of the tripod a kiddy show. On Sunday mornings, the Also have a look at the public affairs show has different require- .VEW leg angle lock ments, and don't forget annual elections, system. high -strength parades and marathons. With a comput- tripod bowl and er-controlled matrix intercom, system configuration files are created with a PC, reinforced hip joints. stored to hard disk, and then loaded into the intercom system as needed. There are six Miller tripod models News happens suit most makes New leg angle Ink syst... Of course, not every situation is sched- for aunt.) tripod if anlu .JI of heads. terrain without spreaders uled. Breaking news, sports and other live events tax any intercom system, and personnel who don't normally communi- cate may find a need to during a crisis. With a matrix system, panels can be re- programmed in seconds without inter- rupting ongoing operation, which is a to 1 feature important to many news opera- tions. With numerous crews in the field, Redesigned bowl for sometimes the director needs to cue one greater lasrnndl rigidity group while the assistant director is Get a Grip on Pro -Lok from: and extra clamping readying another. 51111.1iR I I :1 111 ADS MII.1.LR IRIPOI)S CANADA (iransille d 5A I 1NC. 11155 Sired. With the intercom control panel at the 4111 Garibaldi Me. Vancunver ti( Vb./. IIA Ied1. N)11764411.S.A. Canada user's fingertips, the change to comput- Phone. 19111473!1592 PMw, 1614) 610-5431 er-based communications becomes im- Lat' 12f111473 4hY3 Pat. 16111 6K5 -564x mediately apparent. Electronic LCD or LED labels located over each key are easy to read and change instantly when the panel is reconfigured. This simplifies op- eration because the intercom station needs to be configured with only the Circle (26) on Reply Card communications capabilities that the op- Broadcast Engineering August 1994 www.americanradiohistory.com The V4228 Digital Varicomb Vistek Electronics is proud to announce the launch of the V4228 Digital Varicomb Decoder. COMPONENT (OUT) Designed to be the ultimate composite decoder for the analogue and digital world the industry standard Varicomb technology has been refined and implemented digitally providing performance that actually exceeds that of the existing Varicomb product! The propriety Varicomb algorithm long been acknowledged as the mos transparent process for transferring from the composite to component domain for real pictures, eliminating the artifacts of cross colour and cross luminance without sacrificing resolution. Add to this the accuracy and stabili of digital technology and the optional adaption to a frame comb for perfect decoding of still pictures, whilst maintaining all the conventional Varicomb benefits when there is motion and you have the best decoder available. Digital Vancomb Decoder V4228 The flexibility of configuration allows the SERIAL DIGITAL tailoring of analogue and digital interfaces 1 to suit the requirements of any installation ANALOGUE with the easy addition of interfaces as needs change. PAL or NTSC, analogue or digital, PARALLEL DIGITAL two dimensional or three dimensional adaption the V4228 IS the ultimate solution! COMPOSITE (IN) To Vistek The World's tan ar or a n or andards Vistek Electronics Ltd., Unit C, Wessex Road, Bourne End, Bucks 518 5DT, England Telephone: ( +44) 0628 531221 Telex: 846077 Facsimile: ( +44) 0628 530980 U.S. Sales contact: Preferred Video Products, 4405 Riverside Drive, Burbank, CA 91505 Tel. (818) 562 6544 Fax. (818) 562 3342 www.americanradiohistory.com DIRECTOR erator needs. Extra or confusing key labels are a thing CHANNEL I of the past. Some systems offer master panels that allow sophis- ticated users to make a myriad of routing changes r!1 CG through a keypad and an extended display screen. GRAPHICS STILL STORE With these powerful panels an operator can instantly route different 1FB sources to talent receivers or con- nect the director to a camera operator on the roof CHANNEL 2 shooting an incoming storm. ENG. Telephone interfaces are built into many matrix - RADIOS based intercom systems. For outward access, a built- l aoo cool l in speed dialer can automatically dial and connect GRAPHICS s users to remote locations. And with direct inward CHANNEL 3 access, outside crews can dial in and use their touch - tone keypad to connect to any station, group or IFB circuit in the system. r coo Iaael am I ace Q CAMERA INTERFACE A tangled web we no longer weave The extensive wiring and thick cables necessary for multichannel party -line intercoms are a thing of the VIDEO past with modern matrix systems. Stations are wired back to the central computer frame with three pair of wires two pair for audio and for RS -422 FLOOR - one data. DIRECTOR Some systems make it even easier, whereby digitizing CHANNEL 4 the audio and the data stations can be wired back to the central matrix using only a single twisted pair or piece of coax. This is especially useful for long runs. MASTER AUDIO PROMPTER CONTROL t Some digital station interfaces have been successfully tested with runs of up to four miles. For example, in Atlanta last January, a system was used to coordinate Figure 1. Simplified block diagram of a matrix-based system and possible interface requirements. Now you can get this kind of storag( For years, VDR capacity has been more 1000 -foot roll of 35mm film. Or render akin to a broom closet. But that's about longer animations to disk. Without run- to change. In a big way. ning short on capacity. Introducing the HP 4:2:2 Video Disk With the HP 4:2:2, you can cache larger Recorder. It holds up to 12 minutes of amounts of video when editing, layer- video. Now you can transfer an entire ing or creating special effects. So you 46 Broadcast Engineering August 1994 www.americanradiohistory.com the Super Bowl half time show. The turer. Full-function intercom pan- system hooked together a team of 76 els (and the required interfaces) technical specialists including light- are less than $3,000 each. Com- ing, sound and floor personnel. pare that to 12-channel party-line Sometimes, direct wiring isn't pos- stations costing from $3,500 to sible, but with the latest matrix-based $7,000 each. With that in mind, systems, a full- function intercom sta- and remembering that wiring for tion can be placed anywhere in the a matrix system is much cheaper world that has access to a standard and less time consuming than 4-wire audio path and 4-wire RS -422 multichannel party-lines, it can data path. Links to intercom stations be seen that matrix becomes cost from a facility can be made via stan- effective once you go beyond an The main production control room at KING-TV, Seattle, with dard microwave, satellite, fiber optic 8- station system. newly installed intercom panels in the foreground. or over a T -1 multiplex circuit, giving anyone anywhere full access to the Conclusion entire intercom matrix. load automatically after the Friday late Party-line -style intercoms have served news. Loading the Emergency Broadcast broadcasters for generations. But like Future shock cart could open all relevant mikes for art cards. 3/4-inch videotape, and the BBC Many matrix systems incorporate GPI instant communications or automatical- Color Girl, engineers need to take a long, relays to trigger external devices. There ly dial up the transmitter site. Disabling hard look at their party-line systems to are installations where intercom keys are camera robotics could add paths from see if they are doing what's needed. In used to unlock the door to the control the director to the camera operators - today's rapidly evolving world of broad- room or light up an "Applause" sign. If the possibilities are endless. casting, the more comprehensive and GPI -style control isn't enough, many ma- Talk is cheap flexible the communications system, the trix -type intercom systems are equipped One of the most surprising things peo- faster and easier the job can be accom- with serial ports so they are ready to join ple encounter when learning about ma- plished. This, in turn, increases produc- the automation revolution. Currently, few trix -based systems is that they are afford- tivity and provides for better looking and if any automation companies include able, especially when compared to multi- more profitable programming. "hooks" to intercom systems, but it is channel party -line systems requiring sev- possible and markets and applications eral full- function master stations. The up- 4 For more information on intercom are being investigated. front expenditure of the matrix system's systems, circle (310) on Reply Card. See " on p. 55 of How would you automate an intercom central equipment can run from $4,000 to also Intercoms" the BE Buyers system? Weekend intercom setups could $15,000 depending on size and manufac- Guide. space in a video disk recorder. I1, i I 1to.lrt i-l':trk:Lol 7M\3D133/BE don't have to use VTRs as your source. protocols. And it's backed by HP's The HP 4:2:2 Video Disk Recorder. Which will save them a lot of wear and proven customer support network. It's the next big thing in video. tear. And save you a lot of money. Not Prices start as low as $38,500 for a (Forklift not included.) to mention hassles. fully -loaded model with three minutes There is a better way. The HP 4:2:2 is compatible with stan- of capacity. For a free brochure, call 1 -800- 452 -4844, Ext. 8526. dard videotape and disk recorder HEWLETT' PACKARD Circle (34) on Reply Card August 1994 Broadcast Engineering 47 www.americanradiohistory.com LiKE FORT Knox Wry AN ATM. Imagine a towering stack of cartridges, open reels and DAT tapes -a vast wealth of audio cuts-representing hours of costly, painstaking production. Now imagine that treasury of sounds (like commercials, IDs, SFX, and stingers) securely stored, intelligently organized and instantaneously accessible. And all within the confines of one very impressive machine. The digital audio hard disk recorder, DigiCart/ii. Smart operating controls and an easy -to -read display makes scanning through DigiCart/li's massive vault of storage a snap. 1.3431 CO101L BRK 1 With a simple spin of a knob or In the bank. SHOW OPEN 03.27 DigiCarUds keystroke on a remote control, internal hard &Mee can't be you can call up any single cut, or beat for speed and conven- ience. Choose even an entire playlist- instantly. between 2.4 or8 hours of High-performance vehicle. D, iCarUnbolds 10.000 While DigiCart/u plays a pre- 20kH: sterco cut:. recisebts or 4C-2 rand storage. rrllon;c praise crltic. offers digrk¡l or analog U0. andfeaturesjrrrtures selected Cu , its production -oriented removable media for archiving. backups and transfers. software allows you to program the next series of cuts at the same time. All performed with reassuring reliability. No dead air, no missed cues, no scrambling around. It's easy to see why DigiCart/u is fast becoming the industry standard for hard disk recording. If you're searching for the best place to bank your audio valu- distance.From a ables, take a look -and listen - Ont remote controls expand to DigiCart/ii. and `g;Cart/uwith Call 360 Systems for a hands- programmable ts' on demonstration in your studio. ore. and loLc more. 818 -991 -0360. PROFESSIONAL DIGITAL AUDIO 360 Systems 1331 Slci inlrr Ihht. \\e,tlakc \illa,;c. t. 91361 1 "'.\ l'hnne (818) 991- 11361) Fax 1818) 991 -1360 Circle (35) on Reply Card www.americanradiohistory.com Building serial digital facilities The question is, how much trouble are we about to be in? By John Luff The emergence of sufficient serial digi- signs and installations of often untried tal equipment to credibly build facilities combinations of equipment. has made many questions surrounding The most robust part of the technology the technology much more urgent. The is the SMPTE 259 standard. It defines a The Bottom Line transition is much the same as the con- flexible and reliable interconnection that version from black -and -white television can carry four channels of audio with to color; many techniques will be the component or composite video on one As analog facilities and same conceptually, but the specifics will coaxial interconnection using familiar equipment age, the need to be entirely new and considerably more cable. It has built -in error detection capa- upgrade increases. Remain- complex. The net result remains un- bilities and error detection and handling changed an analog display of 525/625 - (EDH) that allows each piece in the trans- ing analog may not be wise - line video - but the technology is new. mission chain to test the signal and pass or even possible. Upgrading Old monitoring techniques will not work information on to the next link. SMPTE to digital, however, means and home -grown experience about what 259 is based on known digital transmis- an entirely new set of works with analog sig- nals must be replaced problems to deal with. The by new knowledge that integration of digital into will be as hard to learn analog facilities and the as we once thought NTSC was. continued use of analog equipment in a digital facility Transitioning from can be accomplished without analog to digital Most troublesome to major problems as long as many is the route from careful planning is part of analog to serial digital. the process. Wholesale system re- placement is expen- sive and, in many cas- es, not practical. Can the best and most use- ful digital techniques be implemented while avoiding pitfalls? The answer is yes and no. No transition this pro- found can be as simple as we would like. We must re -train ourselves while executing de- One of the newest facilities using serial digital technology is DirecTv, located in Castle Rock, CO. Several interconnected routing matrices Luff is president and owner of Syn- ergistic Technologies. Pittsburgh, provide serial digital signals throughout the facility. (Photo courtesy of PA. Sony System Integration.) August 1994 Broadcast Engineering 49 www.americanradiohistory.com The advantages of component digital technology are emend tu high-end suites. This technology is shown here in a new suite at Horizons Video and Film, Columbus, OH. sion techniques and benefits from signif- component serial digital, the world icant knowledge about automatic equal- seems right. But when any composite ization, signal reclocking and error prop- digital or composite analog is used, tim- agation. ing complexity increases. For instance, hromatec Some claims about conversion to serial some digital decoders have internal de- digital may be myths, but they can have lays that effectively move the active vid- Monitor audio levels, a big effect on decisions about imple- eo relative to vertical sync. Keep a cou- phase and picture menting serial digital equipment. ple of sync generators with line advance and delay when cleaning up those last simultaneously, with Myth 1: All manufacturers' equipment is few missed details. Chromatec's TVD entirely compatible because it conforms to SMPTE 259. The truth is the standard Myth 4: Serial digital facilities cost less series of audio level is more completely defined for compos- than expected because only one level of monitors. ite digital than for component digital. routing is needed. If you will never make a For instance, the techniques for insert- switch without splitting audio and video, ing audio into component serial digital you can buy this one without fear. But it's are not fully approved by the SMPTE seldom that simple. Techniques exist for standardization process, and any imple- integrating "audio drop and add," which mentation runs the risk of incompatibil- allows audio from one video bitstream to bEI ities. Also, there are still surprises about be shifted to another video bitstream. DIGITAL AUDIO the interweaving of AES /EBU audio into the video due to fuzzy definitions in how Because it appears there could be neg- The BDE series of the differing data and framing rates cor- ative factors along with the benefits, why audio digital delays, relate. bother? One simple answer: economics. lay -off recorders and It may be unfortunate, or just a natural synchronizers offers Myth 2: You can safely plan to use exist- process, but consider the amount of new the ultimate in audio ing 7552 cabling and patching when con- equipment being designed for analog. performance using verting an existing facility to a serial digital Only three professional videotape for- digital techniques. environment. Few facilities have new mats (Betacam SP, M -Il, 1 -inch type C) equipment that uses the same number of using analog technology are in produc- connections in the same places in the tion. However, six videotape formats (D- Imported Exclusively by... racks as a previous incarnation. Long 1, D-2, D-3, DCT, Digital Betacam, and D-5) runs can be pulled back, but cable stretch- are in production that use digital record- SYSTEMS ers have not been invented. Patching can ing and interfacing. Many other equip- A be used provided it is truly 7552 imped- ment categories are comparable. faced a today, you may P.O. Box 250334 ance. Anything else may work for short If with decision distances, but can be questionable. choose analog equipment to replace old- West Bloomfield MI 48325 er analog equipment. But equipment pur- Phone: (810) 524 -2100 Myth 3: Component digital is simpler; chased this year will certainly still be on FAX: (810) 932 -1991 timing is not critical. When all signals are the books when major manufacturers Circle (41) on Reply Card 50 Broadcast Engineering August 1994 www.americanradiohistory.com Figure I. Most facilities will have to transition by sections into the all-digital world. Shown in A is a VTRS lANALOG STL typical facility with an analog master control ANALOG r- MASTER switcher. A first step in the conversion process ROUTING - - CONTROL would be to create a digital island by replacing the SWR ANALOG analog switcher with a digital switcher, as in B. NETWORK XMITTER SOURCES cease production of analog equipment for broadcast and high -end production. Looked at another way, will you be able to GRAPHICS purchase additional equipment three years 01 ANALOG from now to interface with this year's ana- PROD SWR log purchase? It's hard to say yes, given the CAMERAS current rate of change. It has been stated that digital is just too expensive. Analyses performed for pro- duction clients have yielded only a 10% to 15% premium for comparable digital DIGITAL systems. At DIGITAL p the high STL I ANALOG MASTER N end, digital equip- ROUTING CONTROL ment has taken SWR XMITTER over NETWORK and provides bene- SOURCES fits simply not avail- DIGITAL ISLAND I able in analog sys- tems at any price. GRAPHICS ANALOG Sedal benefits PROD 1 Some SWR benefits of a CAMERAS fully serial digital = DIGITAL ELEMENTS system are worth enumerating: For Digital it's Critical! Loss of Signal integrity is loss of data It's critical that you maintain the integrity of your signal in high or low frequency digital data transmission systems. So why spend hundreds of thousands of dollars on digital equipment only to have your system fail at the interconnect level due to poor quality coax, twinax or triax connectors? Trompeter products are designed to provide superior performance and feature robust manufacturing designs which insure long life and dependability. Trompeter BNCs Meet the most stringent specification requirements in the telecom industry Specified BNC for most of the major U.S. telephone compan:, Specified by many majorbroadcast companies Trompeter Twinax /Triax connectors Specified by many major mil /aero companies QPL'd versions for MIL -C -49142 Trompeter Patching Systems For serial digital coax broadcast applications For 15538 twinax/triax data bus applications Quality doesn't roA._ It pays. TROMPETER E L E G T H O N C S iNC 31186 La Bava Drive Westlake Village L191362 Ph. (818) 707.2020 Fax: (818) 706.1140 France: (SC,Ph.(1)47.08.35.30 Fax: (1)47.32.99.25 Germany: ACAL Auriema Gombh..Technitron, Ph. 049.89.67 80.95.0 Fax: 049.89.637 6 566 Spain: SCP S.A., Ph. 355.60.05/06 Fax: 356.95.25 Switzerland: Z&B Video A.G., Ph. 01/ 840.4508 Fax: (41)1840.4575 U.K.: Greenwood Electronics Components Lmtd., Ph. 0734.333.788 Fax: (44) 734.333.878 Send for additional information or contact your local Rep Sales /Service Technical Support (800) 982 -2629 Circle (42)on Reply Card -Send Information Circle (60) on Reply Card - Please Call August 1994 Broadcast Engineering 51 www.americanradiohistory.com Getting from here to there AN The crux of the VTRS DIGITAL DIGITAL XMITTER matter is the tran- DIGITAL - MASTER ROUTING sition from a fa- - CONTROL SWR AN miliar analog fa- ENCODER NETWORK cility to an unfa- SOURCES miliar serial digi- tal facility. Two approaches seem GRAPHICS evident: evolu- DIGITAL tion and revolu- PROD tion. By replacing SWR = DIGITAL ELEMENTS portions of a sys- CAMERAS tem in blocks, a facility can evolve into a largely dig- to operation requires the replacement of Figure 2. The f na transition process in converting the roaster control area digital ital facility with- the muting and production switchers with digital equivalents. (DDA= Digital Distribution Amplifier.) out wholesale re- 1. Simplified interconnections may be possible if embedded placement at huge economic and operational cost. You might audio fits your needs. revamp an edit suite and choose to make it internally serial 2. Lower total power consumption (though higher power con- digital, or replace a master control switcher and the link to the sumption per cubic foot of space). transmitter site with a new digital design. (See Figure 1.) These 3. Less drift because digital equipment requires far fewer adjust- islands internally have all the benefits of the new technology, ments. but come with a cost to interface to the existing analog world 4. In many cases, upgrades can be done with software. on the outside. As the islands grow and become more numer- 5. Most digital equipment has built -in diagnostics that simplify ous, these same interfaces can be moved from the I/O of one maintenance. However, many boards can no longer be repaired island to a later conversion target, saving some capital cost. without sophisticated instruments and training. The construc- Personnel can get familiar with the new technology in isolated tion of some units makes field repairs nearly impossible. islands without the risk to the total operation that a wholesale 6. Timing is greatly simplified with most serial digital systems. conversion would pose. Maintenance schooling is a must, and Cable lengths can almost be ignored. The through delays of new test equipment will be necessary. SMPTE, NAB, and SBE individual processing units, however, must he carefully con- conferences are a good place to get a firm grounding in the sidered in the system design process. issues the staff must cope with. The increased emphasis on professional training at the combined SMPTE /SBE/RTNDA conferences will also be helpful. Revolution is far more difficult, and today will have a higher price than analog systems. Recorders and monitoring sys- tems are more expensive and training must be aggressively looked at before total conversion is considered. In an existing facility, the transition to a new system means space must be made available for the chess game of moving and replacing systems. In this technique, a piece of the new system is constructed on vacant floor space. When it is ready, it is cut over into the existing system, leaving an orphan that can be removed to make room for the next piece. Although this approach is not simple, it is a proven technique. Making the subsystems digital means that for the duration of the transi- tion much interface equipment is needed. And for a time, some of the flexibility of the old analog facility must be given up in favor of purchasing fewer A/D and D/A interfaces. In the end, the completed serial digital system can be more function- Tars exactly what al than the old NTSC facility, but the transition period will you can do because our Audio DA require patience and cooperation from all concerned. systems work - day in and day out. If the luxury, or fortunate mistake, of a new facility is avail- they work so well we guarantee them for five years. able, the transition is much easier. In the purest example, you simply build the new facility across the street, and when CH -20C Rack frame with dual power supply and finished, go to work in a shiny new world. But it is highly auto change over holds six transformer DA's. unlikely that you can abandon the analog world completely. After all, the commercials and promos you get from the CH -27 Rack frame with redundant power holds 10 outside world and existing library material are still likely to be stereo DA's, each DA can be strapped as a 2 X 6 or FREE 44pg Catalogg & 80 Audio Video Applic. a 1 X 12, a 13th summed output available for IFB feeds. PWP SUPP ro 7,° PHONO. 0.11C. The L, `o.0 HOHEE Audio AD4'l Company ,..,:o., o AEMILL.-"tms ,Inc PO Box 250334 West Bloomfield, MI. 48325 OPAMP,LABS INC 11213) 934 -3588 Phone 810 524 -2100 FAX 810 932 -1991 1033 N Sycamore Ay LOS ANGELES CA. 90038 Circle (43) on Reply Card Circle (44) on Reply Card 52 Broadcast Engineering August 1994 www.americanradiohistory.com on analog tape. The accountant will push form under consideration. But all of the nected using a single ubiquitous inter- to have as much of the old equipment closed -loop compressed video systems face. Take this as either a plea to the incorporated as possible. In the end, the under trial or in design use component manufacturers, or at least a fervent wish day will dawn when the entire staff car- techniques as well. It seems highly prob- of one system designer for action by the ries equipment across the street and bolts able that all future systems will converge industry to satisfy a growing need. it into the racks. Hopefully, the equip- toward component digital. The CCIR -601- Serial is here. It works. It is complex, ment that moves will be a small portion based serial digital systems have coding and its concepts are challenging. It will of the final facility, but be prepared for specifically for 525/625 -line inputs, but it be critical for all video and broadcast the lingering footprint of NTSC for a long seems possible to create extensions to technical personnel to understand tech- time. the current standards to include variants niques for implementation, testing, and not yet planned, at bit rates perhaps far use of serial digital signals. It is a funda- Component or composite? lower. If such extensions can be created, mental shift away from our knowledge A serious concern is whether to choose there will be few portions of the media base, but one which holds great promise component or composite digital. Al- world whose equipment cannot be con- for our collective futures. though the answer may become clear quickly, it has cost implications and changes the complexity of interfacing issues when combining serial digital into an existing facility. Serial composite digital is cheaper than the Story Of Our serial component digital. But it is funda- mentally NTSC- (or PAL -) coded for more robust transmission. All the old concerns BNC Connectors Has A Very for keeping SC /H phase consistent through multiple generations of reduced resolution composite systems still exist. Predìetable fl5QJ Ending. It is easy to convert from composite dig- ital to NTSC and back with little loss and at affordable costs. Finally, composite coding yields data rates only half that of component coding (143Mb /s for NTSC The gold -plated center conductor locks and 177Mb/s for PAL vs. 270Mb /s for 10- into place making sure that cable and bit component digital and 360Mb /s, connector are properly aligned during 18MHz sampling needed to keep resolu- termination. tion constant with 16:9 aspect ratio). Serial component digital has all the benefits of analog component technolo- Nickel- plated, tarnish- resistant bodies. gy. It has immunity to the cross color,' cross luminance artifacts of NTSC /PAL. Ultem® plastic center conductor better apparent chroma signal to noise insulator eliminates any impedance performance when converted to analog. mismatch. higher intrinsic resolution of color and luminance channels, and better multi - generational performance. Component Cable size is clearly marked on crimp analog edit suites are popular because ferrules eliminating guesswork. they have fewer ways for most operation- al misadjustments to leave a picture un- acceptable. Component serial digital has the same benefits with superior perfor- mance. With the emerging digital video standards, BNC Another huge change lies ahead mak- connectors play a vital role in assuring the quality of ing component techniques far more im- the distributed signal. Mismatched BNC connector portant. The interplay between conven- tional video and computers and the loom- impedance can be a major source of signal degradation. ing transition to ATV must also be consid- Reflections caused by mismatches degrade digital bit ered. ATV formats are inherently compo- streams, making it impossible to recover the digital nent with no composite techniques at information correctly. What was trouble for 4.5 MHz analog transmission any point in the transmission chain. Pro- can be a disaster for a 270 Mbps serial digital signal! duction techniques should, as my uni- versity physics professors used to say. ADC has designed and manufactured a BNC plug with true 7552 "follow by symmetry arguments." Com- characteristic impedence. By using molded Ultem conductor insulators, every puters are also inherently component. ADC BNC connector provides consistent 7552 Workstations and PC -based systems all characteristic impedance. To are available with component digital and find out more about how your connectors can have very predictable (and analog interfaces. They all require exter- happy) endings, call us at 1 800 726 -4266 nal devices to interface to composite sys- for the name of the ADC Professional Audio tems of any type. hTelecammunications and Video distributor near you. You can argue the likelihood of ATV being implemented in anything like the Ultem is a registered trademark of GE Plastics. Circle (45) on Reply Card August 1994 Broadcast Engineering 53 www.americanradiohistory.com Audio distribution Digital audio distribution is far more complex than its analog equivalent. By David Bytheway It is often said that digital audio solves a and up to 24 bits in extended mode. True lot of problems. Although this may be 20 -bit resolution is necessary to equal true in theory, when it comes to a telepro- the performance of analog distribution duction or broadcast facility, a lot of bag- equipment. Converters with real 20-bit The Bottom Line gage comes along with digital audio, performance (in terms of actual measured making operations significantly more distortion and noise specs) are not yet complex than with analog techniques. widely available, but they will be soon. An -digital signal all Because AES/EBU digital audio is a sam- distribution system may not pled and quantized signal with a serial- Digital audio synchronization improve a facility's overall ized bitstream, frames and subframes, it It is not always necessary to run a fully- handled like video. Devices, such synchronous digital audio distribution audio quality. In fact, if done must be as sync generators, auto-framers, sam- system. Eliminating the small disturbance incorrectly, it can actually ple rate converters, and methods like caused by a damaged sample due to a degrade performance. Better impedance matching, cable equalization switch is not always worth the effort re- and reclocking are required. Much of this quired to synchronize and time all sourc- signal- to-noise ratios, head- is foreign to many audio engineers, even es or the switch point. Even when all room, bandwidth, and even those that have been working with digital sources are synchronized, and switches lower distortion may still be recording for years. The following are made on frame boundaries, there may achieved with analog some observations on the transition from still be audible effects. For example, if the analog to digital audio distribution. outgoing sample is positive and the in- distribution methods. coming sample is negative, a large signal Because digital audio is A -to-D and D-to-A conversions transient will be generated that will sound clearly advantageous for Make as few analog -to- digital and digi- like a click or pop. tal-to-analog conversions as possible. Sig- storage and long-distance nificant degradations can occur in the transmission, however, it conversion process. Select the best A-to- It is not always makes sense to include D converters possible because they will ultimately control signal quality. Moni- necessary to run a proper digital pathways toring stations and other non -critical lo- fully synchronous among a facility's intercon- cations can use inexpensive D-to-A con- digital audio nection systems. The key to verters, but for the main program signal path, only top -quality converters should distribution system. success lies in careful be used. Look for such features as AES implementation. cable equalization, secondary phase- lock- loops (PLLs) to reduce jitter, and full In analog switchers, the turn-on and compatibility with all AES /EBU modes turn-off times are relatively slow and pro- (sample rates, pre-emphasis, etc.). duce a sort of fade -down, fade-up effect The AES /EBU standard supports up to that is "soft" sounding. Experience shows 20 bits of resolution in standard mode, that synchronized and timed digital au- dio switches sound quiet only when the switch is done during silence or soft por- Bytheway is a principal engineer at Broadcast Television Sys- tems (BTS) in Salt Lake City. Respond via the BE FAXback line tions of the signal between programs. at913- 967 -1905. There is no simple way to avoid this 54 Broadcast Engineering August 1994 www.americanradiohistory.com Take the same talented roup of engineers who crea he r T H E G R O U P very origins of digital audio The operating platform t Fount , i: PK,pyer etilo..I.fuer rt..... 1 _ .J J -.4111111111111110 www.americanradiohistory.com switching noise. Some sys- work best when the in- tems use a crossfade via coming and outgoing digital signal processing ANALOG sample rates are (DSP) to achieve a quiet ANALOG locked together by switch. SWITCHER DESTINATIONS some integer ratio. Broadcast systems have Higher distortion re- also incorporated sample sults when the two rate converters (SRCs) so rates are close to the that sources with widely same frequency but different sample rates can not locked. This is what still be delivered on-air. happens when sample rate converters are Sample rate conversion used for synchroniza- Sample-rate conversion tion. is not always a cure-all. Even though it seems Some advocate the use of heretical, the use of sample-rate converters to high -quality D-to-A and solve certain synchroni- A -to-D converters con- DIGITAL zation problems. In fact, DIGITAL C IGITAL nected back -to -back sample-rate conversion of SWITCHER may be the simplest SOURCES asynchronous sources is DESTINATIONS way to solve some sam- quite likely to cause sig- ple -rate or sync prob- nal- degrading artifacts. lems. This method has Sampling rate conversion proven equal to the Figure 1. Block diagram of a path-finding system allowing user -transparent should be minimized. performance of digital interfacing of digital and analog sources and destinations. Sample rate converters sample rate converters Make as few analog-to- digital and digital-to- analog conversions as possible. Universal Audio/Video Sync Generation r Dir its! Audio Conversion, Processing & Sync Digital Audio Transmission II 4:1IL W,-_-30 t; j UAW _._.. Div dal Audio Sam le Rate Conversion 1pJ¡1h1 . iii , Synchronous AES I Digital Audio R. 1Ì"ÌÌ ii°.`:.: - AES/EBU &Time Code Routing RS -422 Control Data R Dador N Call for our Digital Audio VEMAT Design Handbook and Product Catalog DEFINING THE CREATIVE EDGE NVISION, INC P.D. Box 1658 Nevada City, CA 95959 OF DIGITAL TECHNOLOGY 916265 -1000 800/719 -1900 Circle (47) on Reply Card 56 Broadcast Engineering August 1994 www.americanradiohistory.com ...take Sierra Video Systems along. The Model 1616D breaks n new ground serial digital 9 9 It ! . . . . video switching. 9 9 _ With state -of- the -art cable equalizers ' i . _ . ".is g.' . on every input and a 2 GHz GaAs crosspoint array, the Model 1616D provides the performance you need: In your move to serial digital video, you can count on 16 x 16 serial digital switching matrix Sierra Video Systems to lead the way. The proven leader in analog routing switchers is now the new Data rates from 140 to 400 Mbps name in digital video. Automatic equalization for up to 300 meters of cable Sierra Video Systems -for an easy RS -232 RS SIERRA or -422 serial port for exterral control move to serial digital video. Up to 64 control panels on a robust RS -485 network VIDEO Modular design, in just 1 RU SYSTEMS ...you con see the di;¡erence! See Us At To find out more IBC HOLLANDHAL about the Model 1616D P.O. Box 2462 STAND #343. Serial Digital Video Routing Switcher, Grass Valley, CA 95945 USA Tel (916) 478 -1000 contact your nearest SVS dealer, or Fax (916) 478 -1105 call Sierra Video Systems at (916) 478 -1000. Circle (36) on Reply Card { 'a- www.americanradiohistory.comiii' AUDIO MONITORING when the highest quality converters are used, and it cer- PROBWVIS . tainly costs less. Routing digital and analog signals WOHLER SOLUTIONS. An advantage of newer switcher control systems is the provision for path finding. Using this technique, tie lines with A -to-D and D-to-A converters in their paths are con- nected between separate analog and digital switchers. 1111 III III 1111 (See Figure 1.) Some control systems can automatically route signals AMP, IA Iw ora .oro un"mor w uh Opi through these tie lines, providing full interchangeability between analog and digital devices. The exchange can be 1. Powered Stereo Monitors. totally transparent the user does not even have to know Full bandwidth response Up to 104 dB SPL Multiple input - which sources are analog and which are digital. This tech- switching options 1 or 2 rack spaces. nique, called automatic path finding, has been used suc- 2. Visual Monitoring of Multiple Sources. cessfully in several recent installations. Up to 20 audio sources at a glance Phase /polarity indicators Peak hold options 1 or 2 rack spaces Up to 76dB range. Equalization and AES /EBU digital audio signals 3. Surround Sound Monitors. Experience has proven that distributing AES/EBU signals Convenient confidence monitoring of surround sound signals in a on twisted pair cable without some form of equalization 2U cabinet level meters for all four channels. may be impractical in many facilities. The signal losses in 4. Digital Audio Monitoring Systems. standard audio cable are simply too high. Newer, low-loss AES /EBU and serial digital input options. cables are now available that help with the problem, but And more... Products and options ready to solve your for long runs, equalization is still required. (A new 75f1 coax problems. Call today for technical details. standard for AES /EBU audio is under development in a joint subcommittee of SMPTE and AES. The lower loss of coax will allow much longer lengths before equalization is Vi/of11e r Technologies needed.) Standard twisted pair cable can be used for only 150 feet 713 Grandviewil Drive. South San Francisco. CA 9411811 or so for AES /EBU audio. With low -loss, data -type cable, 415-589-5676 Fax 415 -589 -1355 lengths up to 500 feet work reliably. Using adaptive equal- ization, lengths up to 1,500 feet or more have been used with complete reliability. An added benefit of equalization Circle (37) on Reply Card is the resulting increase in rise -time of the AES edges. Some AES receiver circuitry is sensitive to the rise -time of the AES edges. If these edges are too slow, then the recovered clock signals that are derived may have greatly increased jitter. When these recovered clocks are used to drive sample-rate clocks in DACs, degraded distortion perfor- mance can result, even with short cable lengths. Standard twisted pair cable can be used for only 150 feet or so for AES/EBU audio. New receiver circuitry using secondary PLLs reduces jitter and improves conversion performance. Converters that use delta-sigma methods are much more sensitive to this error than standard ladder -type converters, and there- fore should be checked carefully. Although this discussion does not hope to explore all the PROFESSIONAL pertinent issues in today's audio signal distribution, those mentioned are the most critical at present. Paying careful VIDEO EDITORS'GUIDE attention to these matters can make a significant differ- ence in the performance and reliability of your facility's Editing Consoles Video Consoles operations, both today and tomorrow. Equipment Cabinets Micro Computer Stations Tape & Film Storage Systems Preferred by Professionals Worldwide M For more information on THE WINSTED CORPORATION audio distribution, 10901 Hampshire Ave. So. Minneapolis. MN 55438.612- 944 -8556 circle (311) on Reply Card. Phone Toll Free: (800) 447-2257 See also "Routing Switchers," FAX: 612-944-1546 p. 56 of the BE Buyers Guide. Circle (38)on ReplyCard 58 Broadcast Engineering August 1994 www.americanradiohistory.com Some People Think That Radio Production People Are Too Demanding. NOT TASCAM. Radio and broadcast production demands durable equipment tha performs unrelentlessly twenty -four hours a day. That's why you'll find TASCAM equipment in practica every production facility in the country. And that goes for the TASCAM DA-88 modular digital multitrack, as well. It offers you incredible flexibility and a quicker production alternative to elaborate workstations, yet it costs less than a good cart machine. Bottom line is you get the benefits of digital and the ease of use of analog. No matter how you look at it, the DA -88 is the smartest way to ease into digital production and it's the essential complement to any digital audio workstation. It gives you one hour and forty-eight minutes of crisp digital audio (8- tracks) on a low cost standard Hi8 video tape. Better yet. It works just like any other TASCAM deck - no learning curve. That means hassle free, quick production, especially on those smaller projects with crazy deadlines. So if you're a demanding broadcast production person, demand the best value in digital multitrack - THE TASCAM DA -88 NIasINi111- .17.0: pS o EM% vS -k. 5 \GCP9 \ o`NO(-<-0 Mo\P NeR P EMOPo Jyé P\ co-3zo,c2`) o\ 4- b o [ QJ\GJ ,scl.O J\ db \' -c\1C? QO E..fc . -C\O ? \Nc, . P ,A0()oov 4`..' h .P`E- O4 '6 p. CO F,í 1 a0 J` C1N f d") TASCAM. 0," Take advantage of our experience. .. 1994 TEAC America inc 7733 Teiegraon Road, Montanello. CA 90640 1213) 726 -0303 J N , > Circle (39) on Reply Card www.americanradiohistory.com Re: Radio i ! Am as. ...-,i ara MI Ai& os *is& ami.: Tubes in review ppppp By John Battison, P.E. Few modern radio transmitters have Such high filament currents immediate- Simple hot wires proved to have inade- more than one tube stage (if any) in their ly bring to mind possible trouble sourc- quate electron emission, and as tubes design. If there is a tube, it is always in the es, and an obvious one is filament con- developed, the rare metal thorium was final output stage, and therefore, is part tacts. In the case of larger transmitting added to the tungsten filaments. Today, a of the critical last link between a station tubes, connection is often by means of specific amount of carbon is burned into and its listeners. Just as some older engi- heavy, braided leads clamped to the pow- the thoriated filament as it is manufac- neers had difficulty coping with transis- er source. For tubes like the 4X250 and tured. This is called carburizing. tors, so do many younger ones find tubes the 4X500A, pins on the base are used for During operation, carbon level in the a little daunting. plug -in connection. With many amps flow- filament decreases and emission be- For example, on a recent station visit I ing, a dirty or poor filament connection comes too low to maintain power output. encountered a contract engineer who had can easily burn up a socket. This is known as decarburizing and is the final tube running half a volt higher Paradoxically, heat is also one of the directly connected with the filament tem- than specified because he was "burning tube's greatest enemies. Although tubes perature - the higher the operating tem- it in." Although opinions differ concern- rely on heat for their operation, too much perature, the shorter the tube life. ing the proper treatment of tubes, I'd heat will shorten tube life. never heard anyone recommend running Gassing 0.5V above the rating when new for burn - Filament design As a tube operates, a second problem in purposes. Perhaps a brief recap of A tube's filament design varies depend- arises. The residual gases also react with tube theory and operation is in order. ing on the age of the tube, the power and the heated filament and speed up the the tube designer's own influence. Many decarburizing process. Most tubes con- tubes today use a hairpin style of fila- tain a getter -a small metal plate that is ment. In this design, a ring of parallel heated during manufacture to absorb or Although tubes rely on filament wires in the shape of hairpins is burn out any excess residual gases. In heat for their built into a cylindrical shape. Springs earlier days, tubes tended to become operation, too much compensate for heat expansion, and fila- gassy over time, even when not in use. ment warm -up is not essential, although (This was indicated by a blue glow that heat will shorten tube tuning can drift slightly during warm -up. danced with modulation.) life. Older tubes usually have spiral -wound Most modern tubes made with ceramic filaments, which can sag as they age and and metallic envelopes can be stored short out adjacent turns. There are also without encountering such gas problems. Tube theory even older filaments using parallel wires Otherwise, it would be hard to maintain Tubes require a source of electrons to running vertically. an adequately fresh spare tube stock. operate. This source is a heated element. Mesh filaments, like their name, consist Veteran engineers will remember the need The element can be a direct part of the of a cylinder of fine wire mesh with a to rotate tubes to prevent "shelf gassing." electron stream (as in a final power tube), center support that carries current to a The constant in and out maneuvers that or an indirectly heated part (as in a tube top plate to which the mesh is welded. this process required often damaged the used in a receiver). Transmitting tubes Current then flows down through the sockets, fingers or pins of the tubes, there- are always of the directly heated cathode mesh and heats it as it flows. As the by defeating the purpose of extending - or filament - type. filament heats up, it tends to expand and tube usefulness. The size of the filament is determined change shape. In fact, filament -to -grid If you have a transmitter that uses old- by the power that the tube has to handle. shorts can often occur, which occasion- er -style tubes with glass envelopes, it is For example, a popular type 811 tube ally clear themselves on cooling and best to store them in air /moisture-tight requires 6.3V at 4A. A 4X500A, the type prove hard to locate when the transmit- bags to prevent rusting of the Kovar met - often used in the finals of small AM trans- ter is off. al-to -glass seal. This Kovar also has a mitters requires 10V at 10.2A. A type 5681 As we all know, vacuum tube principles tendency to introduce gas into the tube. requires 12V at 220A! In order to provide were first discovered when early light - Notwithstanding the problems just men- the necessary volume of electrons to car- bulbs experienced a darkening of their tioned, such tubes should be placed in ry the power required, the filament has glass envelopes. This led to the discov- service every year or so. to be large and mechanically strong. ery that the hot filament emitted some- Be careful not to overvolt a tube - thing. From this came the diode tube unless it is old and worn out and the only H. Batt i son. BE'sconsultant on antennas and radiation. owns J ohn with a filament and a plate that allowed way to maintain licensed power is by Balhson and Associates. a consulting engineering company in for Loudonville. near Columbus. OH. Respond via the BEFAXback current to flow between the filament and burning up its filament while waiting line at 913 -967 -1905. plate when hot. a replacement to arrive! 60 Broadcast Engineering August 1994 www.americanradiohistory.com Transmission Technology Tower maintenance By J. Cabot Goudy Protecting structural steel from envi- the paint /steel bond. In addition, the rust A third method of protection is a pro- ronmentally induced corrosion is a con- is porous and attracts moisture and oth- cess called zinc thermal spraying or llame troversial topic, complicated by numer- er reactants, which in turn create addi- spraying. The zinc is applied by spraying ous products and treatments as well as tional rust and lead to further failure of a stream of molten zinc onto the base their application. Most broadcast towers the paint system. (See Figure la.) Figure metal. The coating is mechanically bond- are protected using one of the following 1(b) illustrates a break in a hot dip galva- ed to the steel, but no iron /zinc alloy systems: painting, hot dip galvanizing, layers are formed. The adhesion is quite zinc spraying or some combination of good if the base metal is DAMAGE properly pre- these. Paint as the sole means of protec- pared. The resultant coating is slightly tion is considered the least effective. It porous compared to the hot dip galva- relies upon the paint forming a protec- nized coating. The zinc, however, affords tive barrier and sealing the steel from the same "cathodic" protection and over moisture and other corrosive agents. time zinc corrosion products will form When the paint is chipped or scratched, and act to seal the porous surface. The the steel begins to corrode. Some paints surface is also slightly rough and makes contain zinc, which affords some addi- an excellent base for a top coat of paint. tional cathodic protection, however, few The final method of protection is some- structures built after 1960 use paint only. times called a "duplex system," or the Virtually all contemporary broadcast '151)(A rf/IVA application of paint over hot dip galva- structures employ hot dip galvanizing, nized or flame- sprayed PAINT COATING ZINC COATING steel. Applying zinc spraying a or combination of one of (a) (b) paint over hot dip galvanized steel can be these plus paint to protect the steel. Hot troublesome and frequently results in dip galvanizing is the most widely used The steel rusts A galvanic cell is where the paint film formed. The zinc failure. Although, with proper surface method. It is the process of thoroughly has been damaged. around the point of preparations, hot dip galvanized steel cleaning the steel and then dipping it Rust creeps under damage corrodes. can be successfully painted. the paint film which Corrosion products into an 850 °F molten zinc bath. Upon is lifted up from the precipitate on the The zinc coating applied to hot dip removal, the remaining zinc forms a thick, steel surface. steel surface and galvanized steel undergoes certain evo- tough, Corrosion protect it. The steel abrasion -resistant coating. This continues until the is also protected lutionary transformations that begin im- coating covers the entire unit and is met- damage has been because it is mediately upon removal from the molten allurgically bonded to it. repaired. cathodic in realation to the zinc coating. zinc bath. First, the outer layer (100% The galvanized coating protects the zinc) begins to oxidize. The early stages base metal in three ways. First, as it acts Figure 1. Cross - section showing the effect of of this oxidation will not lead to adhesion an effective barrier against the penetra- surface damage on different rust- preventive problems for some paints if applied with- tion of water, salts and other corrosive coatings. in 48 hours. Beyond 48 hours, however, agents. Second, the zinc sacrificially dis- zinc oxides, zinc hydroxides and other solves to provide cathodic protection to nized coating. Here the zinc provides various contaminants on the surface pre- any exposed steel. Third, over a period of cathodic protection to the steel because vent proper paint adhesion. This condi- time, the zinc layer forms a film of zinc the zinc is more anodic than the steel. tion can be present between 48 hours carbonate that seals over any voids or Small scratches and cut edges do not and two years after galvanizing. small damaged areas in the zinc coating. rust because of the sacrificial nature of The final stage of evolution in the galva- It is the cathodic protection that prima - the zinc. An important feature of the hot nized coating occurs between eight rily differentiates this coating system from dip galvanized coating is the bond to the months to two years after galvanizing, the paintonlysystem. When painted steel base metal that ensures corrosion will when the final film of zinc carbonates is exposed, rust forms at the steel /paint not occur between the zinc and the base form on the surface. They are essentially interface. The rust occupies a volume metal. Zinc is deposited on the base steel inert and tightly adhered to the surface. several times that of the base steel and and forms several layers, ranging from Painting after the stable zinc carbonates the resulting expansion leads to failure of 100% zinc at the surface, changing through are present can be done with little or no various layers of iron /zinc alloy, to 100% surface preparation. Goudy is a professional engineer in Great Falls, VA. steel at the base. Unfortunately, most hot dip galvanized August 1994 Broadcast Engineering 61 www.americanradiohistory.com It's Basic When it's air time, and you have to worry about; a fast - COME AGAIN!"- paced camera sequence, Say?" unpredictable sequence timing, audience reaction, VTR cuts and commercial breaks - clean, clear, efficient communication shouldn't be among your concerns. steel towers if they are going to be shop For this reason, and because the surface servative value. painted, are painted when the films of is considered porous, most zinc spraying Many non -painted hot dipped galva- zinc oxides and hydroxides are present. applications also receive a top coat of nized broadcast towers have been re- Proper surface preparation is critical and paint. ported to be rusting after only a few years can be achieved by lightly sandblasting The most significant advantage of the in service. In most cases the so-called the material to roughen the surface and duplex system is the synergistic effect of rust is a yellow to orange-red discolora- remove the contaminated films. Sandblast- paint over a galvanized coating. The com- tion and is not rusting of the base metal. ing is costly and requires a skilled opera- bined effect adds a 50% life span exten- This phenomenon is called alloy layer tor being careful not to remove too much sion to the simple addition of the protec- staining. In some cases the outer layer of zinc. Another alternative is a high - pure zinc is expended quickly, there- 80 by exposing the iron /zinc alloy layer. pressure washing followed by a RURAL alloy layer is liberat- metal conditioner or "wash prim- 70 As the iron in the er." TROPICAL ed and forms rust, the characteristic 60 Ad MARINE discoloration is evidenced. It should TEMP Life expectancy 50 MARINE be noted that a significant amount of .,.,N. SUBURBAN galvanic protection remains after the of galvanized coatings 40 -..,,W.,, MOD. first appearance of this discoloration. The ASTM A123 standard covers INDUSTRIAL hot dip galvanizing of structural 30 111011%iiiSE HEAVY Remedial treatments for steels and requires an average min- 20 INI/iiíNIBILS INDUSTRIAL. imum thickness of zinc applied dur- in-service structures 10 .M!' Corrosion protection for an in -ser- ing the process. The average mini- " vice structure relies upon the quality mum is between 2 and 2.3 oz. /sq. feet of zinc or approximately 3.4 to .25 .50 .75 1.0 1.25 1.50 1.75 2 0 2.25 2 5 2.75 3 0 and integrity of the originally applied OZ.OF ZINC/SO.FT OF SURFACE 3.9 mils thickness. Research has system. Once it begins to fail it must 1 4.7 5.1 shown the life expectancy of the .4 .8 1.3 1.7 2 2.8 3.0 3.4 3.8 4.2 be corrected or enhanced by a field - THICKNESS OF ZINC IN MILS falls coating is a function of the thick- installed paint application, which ness applied and the structure's Figure 2. Service life of protective coatings vs. the zinc into three basic categories. environmental exposure. (See Fig- thickness and type of atmosphere. The first protection system dis- ure 2.) Similar results would be ex- cussed was that of paint applied di- pected from zinc applied through a ther- tion provided by the zinc and paint sep- rectly to steel. Although rarely used on mal spraying process if the two applica- arately. In other words, if a coating has a contemporary structures, many older tions were compared on an equal thick- life expectancy of 20 years and paint has structures still exist with paint alone pro- ness basis. In practice, zinc spraying is 10 years, then the duplex system can be viding corrosion protection. The most difficult to apply in corners and similar expected to last 45 years. Some research important maintenance factor is routine failure areas, making the thickness non -uniform. indicates that the 50% increase is a con- inspection and correction of paint 62 Broadcast Engineering August 1994 www.americanradiohistory.com and rusting. Rusted areas should be towers are located in urban envi- scraped clean to bare metal, painted ronments, requiring complete re- with an organic zinc -rich primer and covery of the abrasive particles. top coated. Power tool scraping or waterblast- The second category is the non - ing may be required as alternates. painted hot dip galvanized struc- 2. There is limited control of the envi- ture. Because of alloy layer staining, ronment, inparticular, humidity. Many many towers have been painted pre- paints are not recommended to maturely. Once painting is decided be applied in high humidity. This upon, the weathered galvanized can become a serious consider- steel provides an excellent, stable ation in locations such as Jack- base for the paint. The surface sonville, Florida. should be thoroughly rinsed with a 3. Two-part epoxy paints or "hot" high -pressure water blast, primed paints have a limited pot life.These and top coated. Some paint manu- paints perform well in laboratory facturers recommend the applica- tests and when properly applied tion of an inorganic zinc primer to Removing rust to bare metal on a broadcast tower requires an under controlled shop conditions. application ota zinc -rich primer. (Photo courtesy of Broadcast severely weathered galvanized steel. However, their use in the field is Communications, New Glarus, WI.) However, many experts feel most complicated by their limited pot quality paint, properly applied, will life and temperature sensitivity. adhere well and provide the necessary this nature requires extensive surface 4. The quality of water -based acrylic paints protection assuming there is still some preparation to remove all loose paint has improved. They are durable, easy to zinc remaining to provide cathodic pro- using either water or sandblasting. Se- handle and easy to apply. tection to the base steel. Severely rusted verely rusted areas require heavy scrap- areas must be cleaned to bare metal and ing to bare metal and priming with zinc - Conclusion primed with a zinc -rich paint. rich paint. This is a guide to some of the problems Maintenance of the third category, paint and solutions associated with control- over galvanizing, can range from minimal The real world ling corrosion on broadcast towers. If the to extensive. As a minimum, touch -up Finally, corrosion protection mainte- problems are ignored, the consequences paint will be required after erection. If the nance for in- service structures needs to can be extremely costly. If the solutions tower is not strobe lighted, a color coat- be discussed. Recommendations must are misdirected or misapplied, the con- ing must be applied on a routine basis to consider the realities and difficulties of sequences can be even more costly. Care- meet FAA requirements. The most com- working on a 2,000 -foot tower. Following ful consideration of these issues will help mon failure of the paint over galvanizing are some considerations: ensure a long tower life. system is a lack of adhesion. A failure of I .Sandblasting may not be an option. Many t` t shot! "Nice move. Quality Production Quality Intercom... No Coincidence! Anyone who's been on the working side of a hectic control room knows that the relationship between communication and a successful production is basic. So, as production demands increase, make sure your most basic piece of equipment, the intercom, is the one that broadcasters the world over rank best - an RTS Intercom System! Shown here, the MCE 325 User Station with MCS 325 Check out the new modular series, it has all the quality and Speaker Station in various modular combinations. reliability that RTS is famous for, with system costs that fit just Shown above, Model 802 Master Station. about any budget. And as always, you'll benefit from the same knowledgeable customer support on which the industry has come to rely. In New York, call (201) 891 -6002; in the Midwest: (313) 360 -0430; in Burbank, CA: (818) 566 -6700. When it comes to communication, let's get down to basics. Circle (40) on Reply Card August 1994 Broadcast Engineering 63 www.americanradiohistory.com SBE Update SBE industry relations By Terry Baun "!n the terminal years of this centu- al convention at World Media Expo each monweal of broadcasting. ry, broadcasting will face a host of year. The SBE wants our technical breth- In addition to working with other tech- dramatic changes; ourability to meet ren to see what it is that makes the SBE nical societies, the SBE seeks to develop and manage them will largely deter- distinctive and vital to the communica- training and educational programs involv- mine broadcasting's character and tions industry, and to have the opportu- ing technologies that are vital to the fu- may mark its survival." nity to meet with our officers and board ture of our industry. - Joseph Flaherty, in an informal and relaxed setting. The High on that list is the development of a Senior VP/technology SBE knows how much its membership certification endorsement emphasizing CBS/Broadcast Group has to offer - and it isn't shy about it. PC networks, local and wide -area. Just as The first group of industry associations broadcast management currently expects to receive formal invitations to the fall our membership to be comfortable with Preparing our membership to meet the convention will include a senior repre- managing voice telephone systems, PC challenges of emerging communications sentative from the Audio Engineering network management is a certain next technologies is the SBE's most vital goal. Society, Society of Cable Television Engi- step. A program that certifies that our It's a challenge that's renewed with every neers, The Association of FCC Consulting members are comfortable with this new announcement of progress on construc- Engineers, and the Society of Satellite technology will be vital for continued tion of the information superhighway. Professionals. It is the SBE's hope to de- professional growth in not only today's If broadcast engineers are to survive as velop a program to introduce these se- job market, but tomorrow's opportunities. vital and active contributors to the tech- nology stream of the 21st century, it is important that the SBE grow. Because of the efforts of past president Richard Farquhar and the International Committee, SBE boasts active relation- Engineering WORLD ships with parallel broadcast organiza- SBE MEDIA tions on several continents. Conference But just as the society reaches out to EXPO fellow broadcast engineers around the world, the SBE must also begin to relate in a fraternal way to organizations in this nior representatives to the SBE officers Digital data communications and satel- country who operate on parallel techni- and board in Los Angeles and let them lite systems are other specialized skills cal tracks. Visitors to a major technical see what SBE is all about. that will be investigated for possible cer- gathering, such as the NAB or World Me- The SBE must expand its thinking about tification endorsements. Undoubtedly dia Expo quickly see distinctions blur- how we relate to our fellow engineers other areas of interest will be forthcom- ring among audio, video, broadcast, ca- and technicians in telecommunications. ing. We know it is vital that SBE members ble and satellite. It seems evident that we It must begin to form strategic alliances have access to the latest in telecommuni- are all moving down the highway toward to ensure the continuation of our identity cations training, but we depend upon the a PC- integrated digital universe. The idea as broadcast engineering professionals membership to let the society know what of an integrated exposition such as this while acknowledging the expanding role new skills are required. fall's World Media Expo, which involves of media engineering and our rightful Just as SBE challenges members to ex- SBE, NAB, RTNDA and SMPTE, would have place within it. pand their thinking of what their job de- been unthinkable 10 years ago; the fact Those of you who attended the 1994 scription is, the SBE too must examine its that it is a reality in 1994 is a tribute to the NAB Convention may have noticed a rath- relationship to other engineering and vision of all four organizations. er subtle, but significant, change in the technical societies. The bottom line is this: SBE is commit- badges this year. Instead of badges As Joseph Flaherty points out, our sur- ted to maintaining the art and science of marked Radio Management, TV Manage- vival as an industry is at stake. We can broadcast engineering as a vital contrib- ment or Engineering, 1994 NAB conven- stand by and watch the information su- utor to the forthcoming information age. tioneers all wore badges that were the perhighway being built, or we can grab As the first step in that effort, the SBE is same color and bore the same marking: the tools and help make it happen. What inviting the leaders of allied technical NAB '94. This allowed admission to any is absolutely certain is that we will be societies to be special guests at the annu- of the three convention programs, but working alongside fellow engineers who more importantly, reflected a new and can benefit from the expertise our broad- Baun is vice president of the SBE, and chairman of the SBE more realistic view of radio/TV manag- cast training can provide. Industry RelationsCommidee. ers and engineers as partners in the com- 64 Broadcast Engineering August 1994 www.americanradiohistory.com New Products Real-time disk array control panel; supplied with an internal 10x10mm for the surrounding black be- By Ciprico power supply; second backup power sup- zel; color choices are blue, green, yel- ply can be connected to external, rear- low, amber and red with bi- colors avail- mounted connector. able as specials; light intensity varies Circle (352) on Reply Card depending on color. Circle (355) on Reply Card Hand-held multimeters By Hewlett Packard Ceramic sleeve By AMP 6r 01 MEN Services r: OM--Wow 6800: provides sustained transfer rates of more than 19MB /s with Data-on-De- mand performance features; compatible Solid ceramic capstan sleeve: for Am- VPR VPR with the 6700/10 series of RAID disk arrays pex 6 and 80 capstan motors; existing shaft is turned down and ceram- with the use of a 6800 controller; offered in HP 973A 974A: ic sleeve is and in place 4GB, 8GB, 16GB and 40GB configurations; 971A, 972A, and mounted ground offered in Spectra or Rimfire packages. feature manual- and auto-ranging modes to be concentric and flutter free; precise- Circle (350) on Reply Card as well as a safety shutter; 971A, 972A ly finished surface texture optimizes tape and 973 feature a 31/2-digit display with contact; guaranteed for life against wear, Cable telecommunications accuracy ranging from 0.3% to 0.1 %; the scratching or chipping. dictionary 974 features a 41/2-digit display with ba- Circle (358) on Reply Card By Jones International Ltd. sic accuracy of 0.05% Circle (385) on Reply Card Field -strength meter By Z Technology Test accessories catalog By ITT Pomona Electronics 1994 New Product Test Accessories Catalog: introduces more than 100 new }n L - products in 36 full -color pages; high- in,77;;,,,; lights Pomona's logic scope probe, insulated scope R-501 P RF field- strength meter. hand- probes, oscillo- Jones Cable Television and Informa- held, battery operated and fully syn- scope probes and tion Infrastructure Dictionary: 4th edi- thesized; covers 3.0 to 1000MHz with DMM test lead kits, tion includes 2,900 information super- frequency steps as fine as 2kHz; can IEC1010 probe highway definitions; 6x9 hardbound, 216 measure input power levels from 0.32 leads, fused probe pages; available on 3.5 diskettes for uV to 320mV; input impedance is 5052; kits, grabbers, ca- Macintosh or IBM Windows platforms, power measurement accuracy is guar- ble assemblies and and on CD -ROM; both formats feature anteed to within + / -2dB. adapters; also fea- 850 "Hot Links" highlighted terms to Circle (353) on Reply Card tures test clips and adapters for IC de- help seek out related entries; easy-to- vices. use navigation and search tools. Software Circle (357) on Reply Card Circle (351) on Reply Card By ImMix VideoCube Video routing switcher LED indicators 1.2: provides By Lumex Opto /Components By Pe.ca new functions for PAL and NTSC; PAL ver- sion provides feature set and functionality available in NTSC version of the VideoCube Lynx 200 RM2416V: compact, wide - workstation; offers variable speed play- band, high -performance video routing back of clips, selectable slow -motion and switching; supports 24 inputs and 16 fast-motion, freeze frame in and out for outputs in one -rack unit; can also be con- clips, multiclip move for blocks of clips, figured as an 8x5 RGB 200MHz router; SSI -LXH55 series: fit into standard "/32- support for Sony UVW-series Betacam SP internal controller supports operation inch round holes, outside dimensions VTRs and build to disk capabilities. from a pushbutton or touchpad type are 5x5mm for the lighted area and Circle (358) on Reply Card August 1994 Broadcast Engineering 65 www.americanradiohistory.com Your Video New Products System. Universal VTR controller console or standard rack; composite and By DNF Industries component signals are standard features with Y /C; operable with optional D-2 and D-3digital signals; in- linedot CRT of 0.31mm dot pitch; horizontal resolution is 650 lines. Circle (361) on Reply Card Audio/video routing switchers By Knox Video RS16x16 and RS8x8: these audio and video routers operate at 66052 and han- dle the full range of balanced audio up to MOP +4dBm; also feature professional quick - ST200: universal VTR controller featur- connect, self -locking, bare -wire connec- ing numeric keypad for easy entry of "search to" locations, a 2-cue point mem- ory, search to cue, preroll, and standby Your Video on /oft functions; operator can control D-1, D-2, D-3, D-5, DCT, Betacam, MII, f- inch, 3 /i-inch, S -VHS and Hi-8 formats from System With Sony, Ampex, BTS, Panasonic, Hitachi and JVC via serial RS -422 using one control- ler; functions can he customized. Super Glue. Circle (359) on Reply Card Audio/video cable catalog Belden Wire & Cable tors; balanced audio switchers route the Audio/video catalog: 76 -page. illustrat- full matrix from either front -panel con- ed publication trol or RS -232 interface; also available are featuring line of RS remote controllers, single rack -space Brilliance audio units configured to control full matrix and video ca- bling products in addition to comprehensive eae NSW .es. application and technical infor- including breakaway audio or a single Introducing Super Glue digital converters mation. Circle (360) on Reply Card output and a Windows driver to control designed by Alpha Image. Now there's the router from a Windows format featur- High -resolution monitor ing a graphics interface; front -panel LED a solution for every digital need. From By Asaca /Shibasoku indicators display current routing pattern; CM14A: 14-inch color monitor designed remote video readout is also available. simple monitoring for monitoring NTSC or PAL color video Circle (362) on Reply Card SUPER GLUE signals; easily rack mountable in a VTR D to As, to high Continued on page 70 quality encoders, Super Glue is the bond that keeps your signal path robust and maintenance free. Call 1 -800 -453 -8782, ext. 201 for a nearby Dynatech Video dealer. 4S -101 utah scientific Audio Switcher Illuminated and legendable control buttons II Y N A T E C N Instant or overlap switching 10 In - level ,,, o. o OO V P Stereo Front panel accessible controls 1 Stereo Out Options include: RS -232 interface, remote control, relay -follow- switch outputs Alpha Image Cable Products Colorgraphics da Vinci Network proven quality and reliability OigiStore EMC Newttar Quanta Utah Scientilic P.O. Box 1342 Bellingham, WA 98227 1- 800 -645 -1061 FAX (206) 676 -4822 Conex Electro- Systems, Inc. Circle (48) on Reply Card Circle (49) on Reply Card 66 Broadcast Engineering August 1994 www.americanradiohistory.com "THE PROFESSIONAL'S SOURCE" For Orders & Info Call For Fax (24 Hours) 800 -947 -9928 800 -947 -9003 212- 444 -5028 212- 444 -5001 119 WEST 1 7TH STREET NEW YORK, N.Y. 10011 Come see us at VIDEO EXPO/IMAGE WORLD at the Javlts Convention Center In New York on September 11, 12, and 13 at Booth 4412 - 423 SAMSON LEADER MR -1 Wireless System Panasonic Model 5850C The MR-I micro receiver is a professional VHF wireless receiver measuring less than 4' long and 2' wide Broadcast & Television Systems Vectorscope FCC licensed in 14 channels from 174 MHz to 213 MHz An ideal companion for the 5E60C Waveform Monitor, Truly swtcbable balanced mic level (600 ohms) to the 5850C adds simultaneous side-by -side wavelorm unbalanced 10 dBm) output and vector monitoring. Featurec is an electronically-gen- dbx noise reduction to srmunaneously increase dynamic Digital A/V Mixer crated vector scale that precludes the need for fussy range and eliminate noise WJ -MX50 centering adlustments and eases adjustments phase Receiver squelch, level 8 headphone level output controls Four Input switcher and any two sources can be routed to the program busses from relatively long viewing distances. Provision is made for 10 Can be powered by a 9V battery hours 2- channel digital frame synchronization permits special effects in each of the AIB busses for selecting the phase reference from either (A or B) hand transmitter can with me SH2 -held be used elements Combination of 7 basic patterns and other effects creates 287 wipe patterns. inputs or a separate external timing reference like Shure SM 58 dynamic mic or Audio Technics Pro 4 External edit control input for RS-232 or RS -422 serial controls ST-2 (LI body pack Transmitter can be used with leading Also has GPI Input Waller mico like Sony ECM -144 or Audio Technica 831 Wipe boundary effects sotVborder (bold, 8 back colors available) Model 5860C Digital effects including strobe still, mosaic. negative /positive. paint. Lavalier (clip mic) Systems monochrome. strobe. ball. and AV synchro Waveform Monitor n Fade -In and fade -out video. audio. titles Individually faded ST- 2(1á6M -144 Transmitter with or synchronously A two -input wavelorm monitor. the 58600 features 1H. IV. -1 Receiver. Real -Time compression . the entire source image is compressed inside a wipe patter MR 367.50 2H, 2V, I ps/div and 2V MAG time bases as well as vertical ST -2111 ECM -44 transmitter with Son, mic a ,Scene Grabber makes it possible to move a upholding the indially trimmed -in pattern. ampMier response choices of fat IRE Row pass) chroma integrity MR-I Receiver 419.95 picture and DIF-STEP The latter facilitates easy checks of lumi- Non Additive Mix selects between A and B sources. only the signal with the 51.2(1) AT 831 Transmitter with Audio Technics (NAM) passing nance linearity using the staircase signal A PI %MON output mic Receiver 419.95 highest luminance value unidirectional 8 MR-1 jack to a Down stream keyer with selectable sources from character generator or external camera. nd the und accepts an external syrncsrefereference Bunt- inncali- Incorporates 8 separate memories that enable virtually instant recall of frequently used effects Hand -Held Systems brator and omoff control of the DC restorer is also provided 8 include Mosaic Mix. Position Stream, Corkscrew. Bounce Flip ViS-ate ono Satellite SH -2 /PR4 Audio Technica Dynamic mic element 8 preset erects Shutt!- Audio mixing capability of 5 sources with 5 audio level adlustments. MR -1 Receiver 367.50 SH -2/58 Shure SM58 Dynamic mic element 8 MR -1 Receiver 434.95 SH -2/85 Shure SM-85 condenser mic element 8 MR-1 Receiver.. 592.50 AG-DS840/AG-DS850 SUPER TO SERIES TRANSMITTERS S -VHS Slow- Motion Editing System For the serious professional who wants true step-up quality Editing machines truly designed for professionals features Leveller (clip mini systems each includes The AG-05840 player and AG -DS8S0 Editing VCR are state-of-the -art S- MR -1 Micro Receiver VHS editing machines that the quality required for professional TX -3 Body provide -Pack Transmitter video production and even broadcast systems Equipped with livelier Mic with Multi Pin Plug Panasonic's advanced digital technology they offer features such as 5864A Sony ECM-144 507.95 Sy, 1CM-44 544.50 Digital VHS Circuitry. Digital 3-D Time Base Correctors. Digital Slow Model Sony ECM-55 653.50 Sony ECM -77 724 95 Motion, and Digital Noise Reduction They also have burn -en Time Code Waveform Monitor Generator/Readers for frame accurate editing. and component video output Senheiser MKF-2 747 95 A fully waveform mon,tor for field use. the for connection to MII and Beacom machines portable Model 5864A is a Iwo -channel un t that provides 2H and AG -D6640 8 AG -03650 Features: 2V sweeps with MAG. FLAT and IRE response, and nor- gain Z'SENNHEISER They provide clear. noise -free. high quality Slow playback. Payback mal and X4 speed. including Digital Still Is selectable in 10 steps 1-1/4 -I/O -1/16 1/25, D. -1/25..1/16 .1/8..1,4 .1/21 Model RECORDING MICROPHONES Built -in enhanced performance. 3-dimensional digital TOC with a correction 5854 range of one field With the VCRs continuously retaining one field in memory. the data Vectorscope is used for 3-D type processing thereby providing excellent dropout compensation MKH 60 P48U3 2- channel portable vectorscope is meal for field use and Digital Signal Processing for improved picture quality. and for maintaining uniform picture quality features A and B phase Inherence, fixed and variable Supercardioid/Lobe (Short shotgun) during editing A Chrome Aperture Compensation circuit eliminates color blurring and expands cnro- (CAC) gain Both units with optional battery holder and Short interference tube RF condenser. lightweight metal alloy. bandwidth g i Iranslormerless, low ease symmetrical capsule design. smooth Oather digital Signal processing IDSP) circuits include ohaws Ireq ency response, swtclable low cut Yet (-5 dB at Digital Noise Reduction IDNRI Processes Y and C signals separately to boost S/N Ratio by minimizing noise during playback 100 HE), high frequency boost (.5 dB at 10 KHZ ) and 10 dB Digital Comb Fitter Uses an advanced 3- dimensional system for complete V/C separation The result is reduced color and attenuation Handles extremely high SPL (135 dOl. ideal for luminance blurring broadcasting. film, video. sports recording, interviewing in Switching Noise Mask Circuit Effectively eliminates noise caused by head switching during slow motion playback crowded or noisy environments Excellent for studio voiceovers Employs amorphous video heads that have a higher magnetic coercevety than conventional ternie heads Expanded color spool MAGNI frequency response from he amorphous heads enhances picture quality by minimizing color blurring. MKH 70 P48U3 They have Duilton LTCNITC ILongitudinaVVertical Interval) time code reader/generators (Or absolute frame accurate editing Equipped outputs easy connection to other component video equipment This allows high quality Supercardioid/Lobe (shotgun) of i h co sourcean t all&acg or Expemely ligmweignt RF condenser rugged. long shotgun. Equipped with RS-422 19 -Pint serial interface The standard control system for professional broadcast machines low distOniOn push-pull element. Iranslormerless, low noise. 10 (Intenegent Ouest) mechanism delivers precise. high -speed operation. plus the reliability needed. The dual -loading system switchable presence (.5 dB at 10 KHz). low tut filer -5 dB al achieves high -speed response while protecting tapes and heads from damage The tape transport mechanism uses five direct 50 Hz). and 10 dB preattenuahon Handles 133 dB/SPL with drive motors. including two reel drive motors Automatic head cleaning is also provided MM -400 excellent sensnevty and high output level Ideal for video/11m Capstan Control System with large capstan spindle allows high-speed search at 32x normal speed The MM-400 is a combination wavelorm and rector nature recordings studios. theater. sporting events. and Four channel audio including two hill stereo channels with a dynamic range of 90dB as well as two linear channels with Dolby monitor especially configured ter the cost- conscious NR. Each audio channel has its own input (AG -DS850 only) and output with individual channel -level setting capability All aadeo producer. A low -cost alternative to CRT -based wave- MKH 416 P48U3 channels use XLR connectors lorm monitoring the MM -400 produces a video picture Provides 169 wide aspect compatibility. so they fully for next of the input signal's waveform and displays it on any Supercardiold/Lobe (Shotgun) are equipped the generation of televisions 3 rack units high. they are unbelievably compact for easy space saving installation 19- rack-mountable with optional AG-M730 video monitor It provides a simple, affordable and Translormerless. RF condenser designed as a combination of accurate way to set camera levels before a shoot or to pressure gradient and Interference tube microphones Very check time base correctors and color fidelity in editing good feedback refection low proximity effect 128 dB /SPL. Problems like hue shift, smearing. muddy contrast and Rugged and resistant Io changing climate conditions Ideal for MII "W loss of detail are easily Identified for correction. boom. hshpole, and camera mountings A long -distance micro - Series" venngfor recording Excellent for inter- FEATURES viewing reporters, podiumorlecture AU- W32H/W33H/W35H Converts waveform or vector dispay information Into a standard video signal which can be displayed on a for years. Panasonic S Mi JCRs nave consistently b /Ought pnolessonals rho 816 P48U3 video monitor or routed ammo a video facility no superior broadcast quality of component recording Now the "W-Serins' Ultra -directional Lobe need for additional expensive monitors. Switch (shotgun) brings the power of quality component recording to an ever wider range of between pictures and waveforms at the push of a but - Narrow-beam pattern. Iranslormerless RF condenser micro - users. The "W- Series delivers the familiar MII quality that professionals Ion phone. Handles 124 dB/SPL and has high Output voltage around the world have come to depend on al a substantially reduced cost Incorporates an advanced SC/H and color frame Perfect for crowded news conference, movie sets. TV stages. And with the "W-Series". there are no compromises to the format, or to to phase mdicatol that is a must for editing production. sporting events and nature recording bandwidth required ton hue component recording They are equipped with and post At a glance It tells you if a signal's subcarrier -to- hori- 3-D type TBC for exceptional playback stability and excellent dropout com- phase is it the MKH 816 TU3 pensahon All models have built-in SMPTE time code readers and genera- zontal properly adjusted and signal's color frame matches the house black burst connected Same as MKH 816 P48U3 but designed to use 12 volt audio tors (AU- W35H) and they each feature color framing - so essential for to the MM-400 external reference reput. wire IA- B) powering. animation and editing Uses true component recording technology with separate tracks tor the Works anywhere and with any analog video format- NTSC. PAL. It has MKH 20 P48U3 luminance IVI and chrominance ICI signals Delivers vivid cobs and super Component or S-Video. automatic sharp details- thanks to the full 4 5 MHz luminance bandwidth Because detection between NTSC and PAL ormats. Omnidirectional the signais never mu during recording the quality remains exceptionally Three loop-through inputs can accept three composite high, even during repeated editing and dubbing signals or one component. or RGO signal Low distortion push -pull element, Iranslormerless RF con - No denser. flat frequency response, diffuse /near -held response You don I have to worry which kind of tape to select because there is only complex displays or special lest signals are one tape MII uses metal lape to achieve high picture and sound required for component video monionny switch (6 dB boost at 10 KHz) sytchabie 10 dB pad to Pre- quality interchaunel make vent overmodulateon. Handles 142 dB SPL High output level You can record and playback 90 minutes on a VHS size cassette timing and amplitude display com- Each gneu analog monitoring easy has color bar hmit Ideal for concert. Mid -Side 1M-S1 acoustic strings brass and type correction one (pro i H ponent wind instrument ecordino continuouslyslopey retainsr an entire video field of in atron in memory an is used for 3 D processingrocessina providing e.cri -t dropoutDropout markings for Betacam, M -II and SMPTE formats. om oriels and r high -quand vertical Waveform and veclorscope controls. including chan- phase rotation MKH 40 P48U3 models haveD lour high-quality audio channels There are two Ili-Fr channels. with a dynamic range 0185 aB and two linear nel. sweep speed, position control are channels Dolby on easy -to -see dedicated pushbuttons Cardioid -WiSehe Amoils offer kph pcodeeredmecodertorinh wanr3Namerdyaccuracy Both playersprately n SMPTE time code tically Besides instant toggling between picture and wave- Highly versatile. low distortion push -pull element transformer- swtcIreAU-W3hehdsrhas time conek. accogengrtu Theeed.for cresoles Vreli andeime separately and User automatically form, a mix mode combines woven rm and picture dis- less RF condenser. high output level. transparent response. switch LTC oem during payback according ili tape sakes, for er an lime code identification User are rtt0'd- plays for simultaneous viewing. In swilchable proximity equalization (-4 dB at 50 Hz) and pre - M eitheruto uckngt a board. with the n the AU- 01 making eitherWone one Ise both)wit an internallydit generated ere A day300 The MM -400 can be readily used by even novice opera- anemial. of 10 dB to prevent overmodulateon In vocal ask- Co (Amp 7 is standardprerd sentis! an the AUlorem player Wec -md with edit cwall or thetoe AG-A300 Slow Mot On tors It has easy -to- understand set -up menus for dis- cations excellent results have been achieved with the use of a ControllerIt soc llo line provides noiseless still eed -rhig lyl and quecf situai playback with a range of to 2i normal play color. Interchannel timing, SC/I1 phase alarm. pop screen. Recommended for most situations, including digi- speed It also allows line control overe C payba WE ARE AUTHORIZED PANASONIC INDUSTRIAL VIDEO DEALERS. ALL PANASONIC VIDEO INCLUDE ONE YEAR USA WARRANTY ON PARTS AND LABOR. Circle (50) on Reply Card www.americanradiohistory.com "THE PROFESSIONAL'S SOURCE . FOR ORDERS CALL: oR FAX (24 HOURS): OVERNIGHT AND 800 -947 -9928 800 -947 -9003 RUSH SERVICE AVAILABLE 212 -444 -5028 212 - 444 -5001 PROFESSIONAL VIDEO TAPE J nONI BTS Nova Blox 1 VIDEO PROCESSING SYSTEM Betacam SP -2000 PRO Series me Nn.aB, ^vide^ Pracessnry hi stern is currr01.500 01 PBC 2650 Player with Indwrdual lunction modules called NovaCards. The range of H471S S-VHS Double Coated PBC 2600 Player NovaCard modules includes time base correctors. frame Dynamic Tracking (DT) synchronizers sync generators. encoders. decoders -30.. . 7.69 ST 0.49 More than 90 minutes c' : :site Mete transcorders. distribution amplifiers and routing switches ST -120 9.09 or Oxide cassettes sarn, ys('01 '/100 '.'s Novacards have the Ilexibihty of plugging into either a com- High -speed picture sears, mihmle Color pic- M221 Hi 8 Double Coated puter or one of lour NovaChassis Thal hold from one to 15 tures at up to 10 times nonnai speed in forcar0 and reverse modules Novaeards fit into an IBM or compatible expan- Metal Particles Metal Evaporated (24 times normal speed In monochrome) including P630HIAc 4.99 8.79 Two longitudinal audio channels with Dolby Glype NR PBC 2800 Player/Recorder sion slot Amiga Most of the NovaCards utiete RS232 serial date for operational control and include DOS. P660HMP 7.19 11.89 Equipped with RS-422 9-pin serial interlace Same as PBC-2600p1us- Built-in Time Base Corrector with advanced high quality Windows. and Amiga software. For desktop and portable P6120HMP 9.69 15.79 Bunt -in comprehensive editing lacrhtres digital dropout compensator applications. the C-20 chassis hold two Cards There is also Dynamic Motion Control me memory provides slow motion Optional BOR-50 provides remote control of the TBC the C-4 single rackm0Unt Chassis that accommodates up to editing capabilitty I when used with a player VTR equipped lour and the three rack C -15 Novaframe. which Built -in LTCNITC'User Bits reader, and character generator In DT function, NavaCards or 15 To VIR - V9-1' component signal outputs via BNC 17-pin 90 minutes of recording playback using L -site Metal or Oxide features slots provide operational control when AMPEX Betacam DUB connectors A. ' using one of the Novaehassis there are Iwo Novairol Serial 187 ACA 3/C11-matte Broadcast IIn Bop Optional BKW-7020 per. - íias generator and reader Control Units to choose hone They provide LCD status [Us- ed,. with Our button operation or the NovaTrol'2 which has KCAOS 6.79 KCArS 7.29 PCA15 7.69 vrearsit npe-,dmn ynth dedicated function controls and KCA20 7.99 A'- 8.69 rCA60 12.19 197 BCA 3/4' U -malte Master Broadcast (In Bop WV -F700 BSC 8.59 v 8.59 /1520 9.59 BC' l' 9.59 - 10.29 51560 14.39 3 -CCD Digital Processing Camera Three 213 - 297 SPA 3 4 0-matic SP Master Broadcast (In Bop $Py 10.19 10.19 Achieves a sensm.,ty of I8 0 at 2000 lux and m.mmurn 00ied nl.mhwti0n rs - tin at 11 8 with 2400 gain 14 lux at I1 41 10.89 - 10.89 SPA:^ Emmy Award -winning Digital Signal Processing OSP technology SPA. 12.49 16.29 - Dark Detail Circuit enhances contours under varying lighting conditions Uses lumi- nance sensitive aigordhms to determine the optimum degree o1 enhancement in dark areas of 398 Betacam SP Master Broadcast (In Bap the picture without alteng me brightness of other areas in me picture Enhances contours of objects as fine as strands of human hair even under challenging lighting conditions BC-5A (sr 16.79 HG10AI sine h 18.49 Chroma Detail compensates for poor resolution in nigh chroma areas of the picture NOVAMATE TBC /Frame Synchronizer 13C-20A Ism,e' 20.49 BC-30Alsmalb 22.39 Provides a wide dynamic range image with clear reproduction in he chroma area BC-5LA 15.99 BC-IOLA 18.49 2- Dimensional Low Pass Filter reduces cross-color caused by high level arrant.. fine Janice with a BC-20LA 20.49 BC-3010 22.39 r Coals mixing into the sob-Carrier Reproduces stripes and patterns -IHu n,:lsdtu. um of cVlOt blur range VCR signal correction and video inter- A 49.59 of BC-60LA 31.79 BC -VOL range highlighted plight compression circuit expands the dynamic of areas and ments from desktop video 10 satellite systems vents halation Produces detailed images when viewed against a bright backlight I.. :Mate plugs directly Into a computer or one of several Switchable R-Y B-V or system allows direct docking to S-VHS M -D. or Betacam SP docking VCRs Y chassis conogurations Control is performed either by soft- the flexibility its module maxell. to further enhance operational speed and flexibility a total of lour spectrum Wrth Scene File Three these hues are adjusted while ware or NovaTrol control units of easy to use Scene File modes are available using the white balance to provide natural tones design and microprocessor C..mo plus ils superior quality Four is flexible data twenty BO Certified Worn High-Grade Scene File One is the Standard Mode Much sels the WV-F700 to - Scene File the User Mode for setting make NovaMate the ideal an, t a to standalone and adiust to studio lighting different digital adlustments can be set including gamma knee- computer based TBCs P6 -60 HG BI; 509 - . 6.69 - Scene File Two is the Illum'nance Mode which provides tin diner- point chroma detail detail matrix and shading Individual settings em Shades 01 black to be reproduced nearly in dark locations with- available lot tt of the 20 items at gams of OdB..940 18dB WE CARRY ALL OTHER NOVACAR05: BO Hi -8 Metal Cassettes Certified out requiring lighting alterations and 24dB Illese digital adjustments also alloy the WV -0700 to be ENCODERS. DECODERS. TRANSCODERS. P6-60 HM BC 7.89 Scene File Three is the Fluorescent Mode Undet fluorescent light- matched to other color cameras in a studio environment le quick ing certain color roes tetra to reproduced slightly in the blue setups DISTRIBUTION AMPLIFIERS ANO ROUTING SWITCHERS PO PLUS Espitaoial VHS T -30 Plus 1.69 1.99 T -90 Plus 2.09 2.19 14G11-PLUS Erpitaual VHS (Box/ HRITA HGXT-60 Po. 2.69 - ' ' 2.99 INC KY-27UB BSG -50 90 Broadcast Quality E(pilaual VHS (Box/ 3 -CCD Color Video Camera T -30 B0 4.39 4.99 Blackburst/Sync/Tone Generator T-120130 5.89 Ja . BO Certified Professional S-VHS Ilan Box) LOLUX erode dllovn shouting menus lout were previous., in,pussibre due to operate co.tlollls generators iBLs. lighting light ce vrro equivalentaen an VCRs Camerascameras and edit controllers ST -31 BO 6.09 6.69 u electronic ofo 4dB pusplus a JVC pierltreadout systemY Mir provides an addh Now a video pulse outputs ST-126 BO 7.39 13.59 much gain Donal 6dB togetherg theys provide 3 0dB vnlhout the noise and picture degradation normally associated with IhiS op Now available 6 4 ync Excellent color balance is maintained even down to t S lux illumination Each sync output indwIdually orda composite nc. Shooting Mode metre you onlycnty nave to zoom. locus and Equipped win, Vanable Scan functiona inns allows makes ace composite blanking. ue. or V-drive recordcord An other are controlled ode conly pr cisesofter computer scretosscreens antic¢ scan it a Separate buffer for each output-maximum krgnd ui shootingrAall (ghtomels(Automatic Level Contrail tinuouse coelee eats nom . of a sec in 256 acre IKHt.OUB nieawayh audio lane output locker I SONY snootrng mall light inters This brloht continuous automatic meats to firbe see a -print sate Oatnuts can easily he nse to meet shoottng tram dark to bright outdoorsgives pf Star later createsid Dramaticdramatic 4 -porn) liar electseffects Users can also . eauiomem niees 269 HI-8 Professional Metal Video Cassettes The es in cInsranidWeighting Lowe sportios 01 to Advancedselect Iron, amory Segeof90451stIreers customizable settings P6-30 HMI', 5.79 7.99 Automa the center and Dole portions of theroe desire The Advanced Memory System IAM5151ore5 Automatic nusual IAPB) provides mtelhpente lust 1shooting condemns P6-60 HMPX 8.19 11.49 to ignoreiolkne ucircuitr dxtenobjects suchsues Mtge lights Uses lose 12o watts of power with camera and P6-120HMPy 11.09 15.49 Auto knee circuitry extendsby a scene's t to dark dynamic viewfinder toped time can allocated tom eel operationugh without overexposure adjustable cote) and Detaildetail enhancement through me PR Series Professional Grade VHS Has large 15umch viewfinderder with 500 lies of esolu%n and Camera Setup enu SMPTE color bars Status system provides audio levels. accu- Docks directly lo JVC BR -54220 BR- S411UB and BR- S42000 T301 ; 2.39 . 2.59 2.79 mulated or remaining recordng lime and VTR operation Also protessional S-VHS recorders Model KY -27 UPCH docks battery voltage and caner., .emit pattern end an ^^ rind h' wB and Betacam CSG -50 PM Series Premier Grade Pralesoonal VHS 'tide dly Tone Generator 3.49 3.99 11201'M 4.79 Color Bar/Sync/ BA Series Premier Hi -Grade Broadcast VHS (In Bop 1 -300A 159 h 4.09 1 120HÁ 4,89 color bars lu color black aller 30 yr 60 seconds Easy and sachtler convenientnt for producing tape leaders and striping tapes MO Master Quality S-VIHS Bop (In VIDEO 14/100 FLUID HEAD corelor bars and black Front panel selection of full-held or SMPTE color bar pat- 7.99 8.39 Touch and Go System Vibrationless remcal and horizontal brakes Sadder terns or colorblack (blackbursu video output Integrated Sliding battery plate Built n bubble for horizontal leveling BRS Broadcast Standard Box) Includes crystabcontralled. 1 KH7. Odo audio tone output 3/4 Umatic (In Strengthened dynamic counter, _ r,.. ato n, de range of tripods series 100 0010.15 video. sync ref frame. I KHz 008 Frictionless leak proof fluid r. KCS10 BRS 8.29 KCS -20 BITS mom B.99 Audio lone switches to silence and color bars change to -' levels of drag KCA -10 BRS 8.19 KCA -20 BPS 9.69 black whom using 3000 second limer HOT POD TRIPOD SERIES f -on Sr 1 :rd m,t mvo,r idle -' KCA -30 BP a 9.69 A -6c. 05S 13.49 s349 ' for in tripod y tnu'astest ill vie vmdA The central locking Especially developed use ERG the Mot Pod NBA 3/4" U-matis Broadcast Master On Box) system is activated on all three legs at the same time while the pneumatic center column easily makes it possible to have the lens a' naat ul n.er 7 lee: The elevahlr tort "'the center rnlumn Is factory WE STOCK THE FULL LINE OF KCS- huh, 8.79 1019 .' ...,I "' set and doesn tregmr., ...; ' ..r. d by its handle HORITA PRODUCTS INCLUDING: KCA-10 XBR 9.29 - 10.69 WG-50 - Window Dub Inserter KCA -30 XBR 11.99 - 15.69 ENG TWO -STAGE TRIPOD SERIES a TO -6o - Generatorinsener BOP 311 U-matic SP Broadcast (In Box) Sachller Iwo-stage tripods ang' ilu :..1 ;i.ittarr nit i.uner top position) so they are more universal Legs can TRO -SO - Generator/Inserter/Search Speed Reader be locked in seconds won Sachller's quick clamping There ale also heavy duty versions for extra stabrtiey The heavy duty aluminum TRG -50PC - Has all of the above plus RS-232 control, KSP -S10 (mini) 9.59 GSnS20 -nmm 11.09 has a 20mm diameter tube vs 16mm and the heaw, duty carbon fiber has a 24mm diameter tube vs 22mm Also all heavy duty two- VG -SO -VITC Generator, LTC-VITC Translator KSP -10. 10.09 'SP-20 11.59 stage tripods have a folding Irrpod hannlr VLT -50 - VITC-To-LTC Translator KSP -30 12.99 RAP 60 16.99 VLT -50PC - VITC -TO-LTC Translator ' AS.232 Control SACHTLER SYSTEM 14 PACKAGES RLT -50 - Hi8 (EVO-980098501TC to LTC Translator OCT Metal Betacam SP Broadcast Master (Bop TOG -SO - NTSC Test Signal Generator t PRO SYSTEM 14 PRO I Economic standard SYSTEM 14 PRO II siur Drama, SYSTEM 14 Ill Ovickr - - - SCT -50 - Serial Control tiller' Industrial- CO, Ismalb 17.39 we two -stage aluminum tripod video lem Willi 1 vo-stage carbon libel tripod system extremely nigh cold BCT-5M (small 16.39 HCT-10M Time -Date Stamp. Time Code Captioning Fluid Head ENG 20 Two. video includes 14'100 fluid Head ENG 2 by the center cols n BCT-20M Ismalb 21.29 SCT-30M Ismadl 23.29 includes I4n00 pneumatic stage Aluminum Tripod SP100 spread,- CI T:rn Stage Carbon I tier lnp0d 50100 1a 100 Fluid Head Hot Poc'- SAG -50 - Sale Area. Convergence Pattern and 3119 BCT-90ML 51.99 BCT-60ML fNG2 Padded Bag 345000 ur r. .f'!ri Id.: t ig 3995.00 Prided Bag 100 It 369500 Oscilloscope Line Trigger and Generator .LL :10l0 COMES ARn w S!V!N-DAY 3A1131ACION MONS" BACH OYARANTlE www.americanradiohistory.com .. FOR PHOTO & VIDEO" e ® TO INQUIRE ABOUT YOUR ORDER. 119 WEST 17TH STREET, NEW YORK, N.Y. 10011 800 221 -5743 212 807 -7479 Store & Mail Order Hours: Sun 10-4:45 Mon & Tues 9-6 Wed & Thurs 9 -7:30 Fri 9 -2 Sat Closed PHOTO -VIDEO OR FAX 24 HOURS: 212 366 -3738 RUSH OR OVERNIGHT SERVICE AVAILABLE (extra charge) TASCAM DA-88 Multi -Track Recorder SONY or a EVW -300 Hi -8 3 -CCD CAMCORDER race Features: Quick -Draw Professional enI sensdivn, ui l y n at 1 0. lu ape S N or 6u dB and delivers over FOR CAMCORDERS OR STAND ALONE CAMERAS 700 lines of horizontal resolution Provides nigh quality PCM digital stereo and single channel AIM Hi-Fi recording Has %LR balanced audio connectors The eight -88 is hrA(' -about the Channel DA the Quick start 15' viewfinder with 550 lines of resolution plus Zebra pattern video level indicator and color bar generator size of the cassette iI s a small HI 8mm video cassette You II Built-in 8mm Time Code generator Iron -drop frame or drop frame mode may be selected) Also incorporates a variety of also notice 120 minutes These the recording time up to are time code features such as Time Code PRESET/RESET. REC RUN'FREE RUN and User Bits lust two of the advantages of the DA-88's innovative use of A variety of automatic adjustment functions for different lighting conditions are incorporated into the EVW-300 8mm technology - ATW (Auto Trace White Balance) - when ADM rs fumed on optimum while balance is always ensured during recording Intrinsic to the 8mm video format is the Automatic track even for changes in color temperature Conventional while balance adjustment is still provided with the Auto White Balance Finding IATFI control system This approach records the AGC in manual gain in range 18 - (Automatic Gain Control, - addition to Gain Up AGC provides linear up the of 0 CB to dB tracking control information. along wtth the program material. Intelligent Auto Ins - tor situations where the lighting between Sublecl and background is different Isublect is sing the helical scan (video) head Competing S -VHS based underexposed) the Inlelligeril Auto Iris automatically examines the scene and adlusts the lens iris for proper exposure system record the tracking data with a linear recording head. Selectable Garn-up from t dB to 18 dB in I dB steps for Mid A Rion positions independent of the program data The SVHS tape must be Clear Scan 'unction - provides a variety of selection of shutter speeds ranging from 60-200 Hz allowing recording of n at a higher speed (thereby delivering shorter recording almost any computer display without dicker hmel to deliver control track reliability and requires some Compact. lightweight (12 lbs with NP18) ergonomic design provides well balanced and extremely comfortable operation form of automatic or manual tracking adlustment Synch - nrzation and tracking must be adlusted either automatically Designed for working from the bats of a van or the trunk or manually (lust like on your home vcrl as the machine ages or your car The fop loading case has a wide open told or it the tape R played back on another machine back top tsat stays neatly out of the way Its lighter and On the Other hand. the ATF system ensures that there will be more compact than shipping cases thus saving valuable no tracking errors or loss of synchronization. The DA -88 JVC GY X2 storage space With other equipment crowded around it dorm t even have Or need) a tracking adlustmenl All eight the sturdy burn -in frame provides a fled protection tracks of audio are pertectly synchronized What s more this Heavy duty shoulder strap A comloeable leather hand grip system guarantees pert ect tracking and synchronization 3 -CCD S -VHS CAMCORDER Carry it in crowds - crush proof air mmum guard protects between all audio tracks on all cascaded decks - whether you in I.2 CCD image sensor delivers 650 lines of horizontal resolution viewfinder have one deck or sixteen ¡up to 128 tracks') rios micro -lens technology provides exceptional sensitivity of F70 al f its into back seal and fastens securely with seal belt Incoming audio is digitized by the on -board 1641 D. at 1 )00 lux and new LOLU% lets you shoot with almost no light, Shoot Holds camera with on -board battery attached either 44 1 or 48KHz (user selectable) The frequency superb footage with excellent color balanced at a mere 31ux illumination Lid closes with Velcro for quick -opening or secure with response is flat from 20Hz to 20KHZ while the dynamic range Variable Scan View allows flicker-tree shooting of a computer monitor full-length zippers exceeds 92d6 As you would expect from a CD- quality (Muck Record Mode oxen turned on the camera is sel to the auto Ins even II lens is set at manual Also activated is (AEG) Two Trim exterior pockets and clip board pocket recorder the wow and nutter is immeasurable Automatic Level Control and EEI Extended Electronic Ins which provides both variable gam and variable shutter Now you can Dual purpose rear pouch is an expar'dable battery chamber One 01 the best features of the DA88 is the ability to execute shoot continuously from dark room to bright outdoors without having to adlust gain ins or ND Inver or all-purpose pocket seamless Punch-ins and Punch- outs This feature otters pro- Full Time Auto White circuit lets you move from incandescent to fluorescent to outdoor lighting without changing white balance grammable digital crosslades as well as the ability to inseo or the filter wheel new material accurately into tight spots You can even delay Genlock input allow synchronization with other cameras individual tracks whether you want to generate special effects Dual output system allows camera output to be connected directly to an external recorder or compensate for poor toning All of this can be performed MIM?iaaer easily on a deck that is simple and intuitive to use OPTIONS RC-BM - Single Unit Remote Control RC-MI - System Remote Control Logic Series DIGITAL Gold MU-1124 - 24-Channel Meter Unit TOSHIBA SV-A Complete SMPTF [OU Chase Synchronizing and TSC -200 Mount Batteries 3 -CCD Hi -8 Camcorder 3 CCD d rps mounted ,ith spalla, inset lechnoagy debiur FOSCC'X resolution of 700 horizontal lines Genlock capability _ ' .dit other cameras Low noise design provides extreme sensitivity of F80 Full calibration fur chi for bar generator Multi -Track Recorder at 2030 lux Min illumination 7 5 lux with excellent color repro- - RD-8 1 duction Variable high speed shutter Imam 60 to t 2000 second Bmlhin 8mm rime code generator records an absolute address New LNA Dow noise amplified delivers a SM Isignabtonnisel to every frame ratio of 62dB - the hignest achieved roi this type of camera Highpertormance records 26prn connector outputs VG or component video signal allow- back electret condenser mic to all three audio backs Low cut liner eliminates wind noise ing up to a portable S -VMS MII or Betacarn recorder and simultaneously record rwln Hi-8 Very low power consumption Draws only 16 watts per hour missk shot) lime you allowing 100 minutes of recording time with 1 NP-1B battery made of magnesium on Zebraepanern in thesvrlevA nder alle rs operatorpera m tonever Body alloy previously only broadcast This digital multitrack recorder is designed specifically tor the excessive video levels cameras Still only 13 lbs in standard configuration audio professional Foslex has long been a leader in synchro- The Logic Serres DIGITAL batteries are acknowledged to be nization and the RD -8 redefines that commitment With its the most advanced in the rechargeable battery industry In timlhin SMPTE I EBU reader /generator. the RD -8 can stripe. addition to the comprehensive sensors integral to all Logic read and lam sync time code even convert to MIDI time code Sends batteries each DIGITAL battery Fas a built -in micro- In a sync environment 'I,- RD -8 can be either Master or Slave processor that communicates directly with Anion /Bauer In a MIDI environs 'l integrate seamlessly into the most InterACtive chargers creating significant new benchmarks iamplex protect iti. :n g you complete transport control Panasonic. for reliability. pert ormance. and life They also complete the from idbir within your i'.IDI Machine Controq compatible communications network between battery charger and sequencer camera With the network in place. DIGITAL batteries deliver Full transport control Is available via the unit 's industry-star- ,°'D AG-DP800 úa ERcAm the feature most requested by cameramen a reliable and dard RS422 troy lull control right from your video providing accurate indication of remaining battery power bay. The RD-8 records at either 44 1 or 48KHz and will per- S-VHS 3 -CCD Digital Signal Processing Camcorder form Pull-Up and Pull-Down hanchions for film /video transfers -pitch The Track Slip feature helps maintain perlent sound-ho- picture Three high-density 380.000 pixel CCDs with hall DIGITAL PRO PACS pixel offset horizontal resolu- sync and the 8-Channel Optical Digital Interlace keeps you in The Digital Pro Pac is the ultimate video battery tion S/N calm exceeding 60dB and remarkable sensitivity professional the digital domain and is recommended tor all applications The premium of Ili at 2000 lux result In simply extraordinaryry age qual- All of this contributes to the superb sound quality of the RD -8 heavy duty Pro Pac cell is designed to deliver long life and ity Additionally lire Frame Interline Transfer (EIl CCDs The audio itself is processed by 16-bit digital-lo-analog I high performance loads minimize vertical smear so you maintain impressive pic- even under high cutre'il and ID/As) converters at either 44 I or 48KHz selectable) (user Ire quality even in very bright domination sampling rates wilt 64% oversampling Playback is accom- Mortal signal processing circuitry provides Pacecreates prrtect shoulder balance witr all camcorderss plished with 18 bit sI and 64% analog-to-digital (AT oversa, araced..aluable benefits riling thus delivering CD-quality audio onsisteotly reliable up-to -spec performance DIGITAL PRO PAC 14 LOGIC SERIES ROAD BATTERY The S-VHS transpon in the RD-8 was selected because of its I we adlustment of a wide range of parameters 14 4v 60 Watt Hours 5I 8 lbs proven reliability. gged construction and superb tape ha m r.lemony storage and instant recall of specific settings Run time 2 hours id 27 watts 3 hrS iv 18 walls ding capabilities Eight (racks on S-VHS tape allow much :. More flexible and higher quality image processing, DIGITAL PRO PAC 13 LOGIC SERIES RICAS BATTERY wider track widths than is possible on otter digital tape as well as easier maintenance recording tormats 1 3 2v 55 Wan Hours 4 3 4 1 5 5 With its LCD and 10-digit display panel. the RD -8 is remark- Run time 2 hours W 25 wads, 3 hours á 17 watts Some of the DSP orra. i -Mons ably easy to Control You can readily access 100 locate points - CHROMA DETAIL ninpensates for poor resolution in the nigh chroma areas of the picture and cross -fade time is fully controllable in machine to DARK DETAIL Detem ides optmwn degree of contour eohancemenl in dark areas to deliver cusp natural-looking images DIGITAL COMPAC MAGNUM machine editing Table of Contents data can be recorded on - HIGHLIGHT COMPRESSION Expands the dynamic range of the highlighted areas and prevents halation The highlight com- next tape When the session begins whether on your RDS or pression circuit allows a wide dynamic range producing detailed images even against bright backlight or daylight Extremely small and light weight (almost hall the size and another, you load information from lust the set up your tape FLARE CORRECTION CIRCUIT Compensates tor unsteady black caused by light or by a sublects movements weight of a Digital Pro Pacl the powerful Digital Compac and begin working Since the RDS is lully ADAT compliant. Six Scene File modes There are two user modes for custom digital parameter settings including Horizontal Detail Vertical Detail Magnum still has more effective energy thon two NP style ¡our machine can play tapes made on other compatible Chroma and Dark Detail and Color Correction The lour preset modes are normal fluorescent. special and sparkling slide-in batteries The high voltage design and Logic Series machines. and can be controlled by other manufacturers In addition to regular AGG (Automatic Gain Control), Supercam has a Super High Gain mode At II d this enables shooting under technology eliminate all the problems that cripple convent ADAT controllers Your tapes will also be playable on any Ilummdlron as low as 2 lux while retaining detail and color balance tonal 12 void slide -in type batteries. The Cigital Compac function other ADAT deck. Synchro Scan allows Ilicker-tree shooting of computer monitors Electronic shutter increments can be sel variably from Magnum professional for aprlications drawing In addition to familiar transpon controls there are a number 1761 seconds to 1'253 of a second less is wallsrofesssiona rc hoice eel when usmq an logical friendly features Built-or internal time code generator lets you record with Internal) of user This is the only unit in its SMPTE LTCNITC (LongiludinalNMical time code Oltrahght class with an on -board back-III variable contrast LCD display 26 -pin connector tor don' signal output from camera section for easy backups using 2nd VCR equipped with 26 -pin connector It provides all of the mtotmaton you'll need to keep track of Two hi-fi stereo audio channels with a dynamic range of 80 dB. as well as two linear audio channels with Dolby NR Normal/HiFr ronnectors DIGITAL COMPAC MAGNUM 14 LOGIC SERIES MUD BATTERY :,used more points generator functions and other pertinent rig is selectable Uses %LR to Fortner ensure high-quality sound 144vd3W.P - Precord . i P, -iPr on keys. combined with HOME. NEXT and romo, pc on be sup plm n i p h n m our.- can be Switched Ott to prevent battery drain when notcn use Run time 2 hours .i 20 ::arts is enable you to navigate the edit menus . need to have access to the front panel con DMITAL COMPAC MAGNUM 13 LOGIC SERIES MICAD BATTERY model 8312 remote control gives you 13 2v 40 Walt Hours 2 1/2 lbs remote wmniarid of the most common functions WE BUY SELL AND TRADE USED VIDEO EQUIPMENT Rim time 2 hours 218 watts 3 hours a 1::. All TOED COMES IMTN A SEVER -DAY SATISFACTION MONEY -SACK GUARANTEE Circle (51) on Reply Card www.americanradiohistory.com New Products Continued from page 66 tion, dialog and sound effects editing variable rate strobe; provides and sound for picture work; it sup- transcoding of composite and compo- Poster/Satellite guide ports four channels of digital I/O and nent inputs to all outputs; accepts syn- By Keystone Communications can be expanded to 24 tracks. chronous or non -synchronous inputs; Expanded Quattro: permits direct seri- provides composite and Y/C in and out al control over a variety of 1 -inch, 3/4-inch, and offers full proc amp controls. Circle (363) on Reply Card and I /2-inch decks as well as time-code DATs; also features TimeTwist and op- tional converters. Multiformat TBC/ Circle (366) on Reply Card TBC synchronizers By Prime Image Visual effects By Discreet Logic 4:4:4 digital video signal I/O for Flame: enables Flame special visual effects system to support full 4:4:4 component digital video signal input and output; doubles the quality of North American Satellite Guide Post- chrominance data available; Flame can er. 22 inch by 28 inch full color poster capture the 4:4:4 signal in real time to its featuring the North American communi- disk system direct from any 4:4:4 source. HR60011 series: line of high -resolution cations satellite arc, C -Band and Ku-band Circle (354) on Reply Card TBCs featuring wide bandwidth signal frequency tables, Ku -band half transpon- handling at 7.5MHz and multiformat der formulas as well as a Greenwich/ Time base corrector transcoding; provides for 3-way wide - military time conversion chart. By Prime Image band (8MHz) digital adaptive comb fil- Asia Pacific Satellite Guide: features ter and RGB 3- and 4-wire input /output; up-to -date transponder loading informai- features include true component pro- ton and coverage maps of Asia Pacific cessing and composite, S -VHS, Y688, Y/ satellites that carry video traffic; spiral R -Y/B-Y in /out. bound; published quarterly. Circle (368) on Reply Card Circle (384) on Reply Card 5011 TBC/Freeze 11: expanded version Digital video fiber optics Power platforms available for NTSC, PAL or PAL-M stan- By ipitek By Sonic Solutions dards; features AGC on /off, H- position, Sonic Quattro: a power platform for vertical color advance, horizontal chro- 4 -track and larger configurations; can ma-to-luma adjust, three levels of detail handle music editing. radio produc- enhancement; frame or field freeze, and Imtran system: digitally encodes vid- bvs eo and audio, transmits via fiber -optic cable; capable of digitizing multichan- nel analog video, audio, RS-232 unidi- rf/i.4:%"iÍfy41)i% bvs rectional data and two 25Mb /s over- t bioodcost v,deo systems head channels over a single fiber cov- ering more than 40 miles. OPAQUE TO TRANSPARENT INSERTS AT YOUR FINGERTIPS Circle (369) on Reply Card SIX MODELS WITH FEATURES AND CONTROL SYSTEMS FOR EVERY APPLICATION Database By Soft Wright Composite and Component versions TAP high-resolution database Downstream or stand alone database: Frame accurate mix to key, fade to black for use in the Terrain Analysis Package; Serial remote control GPI interface based on the 71/2-inch quadrangles; uses Key source input switcher Key set memory a grid interval of 30 meters that provides Preview output Processed black an increase in grid density about nine MASTERKEY 4 Key area masking CONTROL PANEL times the data in a given area. Circle (367) on Reply Card broadcast video systems ltd 40 West Wilmot Street. Richmond Hill, Ontario L4B 1H8 Telephone: (905) 764 -1584 Fax: (905) 764 -7438 Continued on page 75 Circle (52) on Reply Card 70 Broadcast Engineering August 1994 www.americanradiohistory.com The one audio tester you can use in mixed company AA1700A11diuNhre.unnncu1 rl SYSTEM CONTROLS APPLICATIONS Menu Restalts Analyzer Digdal Monitor Sweep! Run Move Limits J Freeze FFT Other 1User1 DIgltal Interrate i Expand Filler ( Cursor I UTILITIES Configure Display Storage Select r Channel Statusu Subfran. 1 Copy J Function asareleluse m r.'. Data use r Frrphauis no; fM:i: loekkpM source Orhed ^ SOUND GENERATOR Sanplefrewency aathr 1 I L On .1 Chanel mode 2- enamel RS* 070 one 0.90 Amplitude Frequency User blti mode not Indira AUX bits use main word length 1a Dito Control Reference shmel not Origin OR IL DestInetlen OIS Sample number IS Time of ay c, OAO Ago 040 0.10 090 O90 THE TEKTRONIX AM700. THE HIGH PERFORMANCE MIXED SIGNAL AUDIO TESTER THAT'S VERSATILE AND EASY TO USE. Meet a real crowd pleaser. The AM700. It's designed for virtually any audio test application -analog or digital. Making it the perfect choice for testing car radios, recording equipment, radio and television audio broadcast systems, and more. For starters, it's fast and easy to use. There are no complex commands to learn. Just a simple interface that guides you to any function you need. And a high performance processor that gets the job done pronto. Plus, the AM700 lets you work any way you want. Automatically, semi -automatically, or manually. It's ideal for design engineers working at the bench Input and output ports allow you to generate test level, test engineers on the production line, signals for both analog and digital domains. and everywhere in between. And it's completely portable, too. Everything's included in one compact instrument. No wonder it knows exactly what to do in mixed company. Make an appointment for a demonstration by calling your local Tektronix sales office or cal I 1- 800 -TEK -WIDE ext.TV Tektronix Circle (70) on Reply Card www.americanradiohistory.com Mark your calendars For the World 44)et Media Expo Oct. 12 -15 " show The conference will include the: NAB Radio Show preview RTNDA Annual Conference By Dawn Hightower, This year's show reflects the senior associate editor SBE Conference changing industry. SMPTE Conference Amsterdam is the place to be this fall if you are involved in radio, television, sat- Panel sessions IBC 94 ellite, cable or film. The Interna- Friday, Sept. 16 tional Broadcasting Convention and Ex- A.M.: Cable/Satellite/Terrestrial and VOD hibition will be held Sept. 16-20 at the RAI P.M.: The Battle for World Standards Convention Centre. This year's technical program has been Saturday, Sept. 17 \I1 A.M.: Tapeless Recording expanded more WARRANTY _ to incorporate tradition- al high -quality papers in addition to its P.M.: Is MPEG -2 Future Proof? 4¡+t +à workshops. This year's convention also Sunday, Sept. 18 will feature a new addition - panel ses- A.M.: DAB -- Technology Looking for a VIDEO D A's sions. These sessions will provide attend- Market? ees the opportunity to question leading P.M.: The Broadcast Engineer -- an figures in the industry on a wide range of Endangered Species? ES-207A topics. Monday, Sept. 19 Something for everyone A.M.: Using Tomorrow's Channel Capacity Whether you are involved in station P.M.: Standards in Film and TV management, technical operations, equip- Tuesday, Sept. 20 ment selection, system planning, equip- Broadcast Quality A.M.: Do We Need an FCC in Europe? ment design or advanced research and P.M.: Has Enhanced Analog TV Missed Ix4or1x5 development, the technical program has the Boat? Gain- Adjustable from something for you. Two parallel streams of papers sessions 8 ro 1.5 Volts will cover the latest state-of-the-art tech- business, as well as old hands. The work- Equalization-Compensates nology, as well as a wide range of reviews shop sessions are free to convention reg- is limited for 1000' of RG -59/U of current developments. Sessions also istrants. However, attendance will address future technology and the and tickets will be available on a first Response - 5dB at 10MHz decisions that need to be made. Session come, first served basis. Propagation Delay - presentations will include widescreen, The workshop sessions will include dig- 5Nsec audio for radio and TV, microwave video ital compression, film production, sound distribution, cable, direct -to-home satel- for pictures, non -linear editing, special $175 lite broadcasting, digital terrestrial TV, effects for beginners, automation, multi- MANY OTHER AUDIO AND digital audio broadcasting, transmission media and electronic effects. VIDEO DA's AVAILABLE!! coverage, digital coding of video signals, For more information on the IBC event Including Rockmount Configurations random access media and digital film this fall, contact the IBC Secretariat at PO processing and enhancements. Box 193, Savoy Place, London WC2R OBL; 142 SIERRA ST. EL SEGUNDO IBC workshops, which were introduced telephone +44(0)71 240 3839 or fax: CALIFORNIA 90245 in 1992, have been extended to a full +44(0)71 497 3633. (310) 322 -2136 stream of tutorials for those new to the Circle (53) on Reply Card 72 Broadcast Engineering August 1994 www.americanradiohistory.com Professional Services East Coast Vide! JOHN H. BATTISON PL NETCOM ONLINE N -TIME CONSULTING BROADCAST ENGINEER, STATE OF THE ART ENGINEERING FOR AUDIO d VIDEO A full service TV, LPTV Company providing_. Serving... FCC APPLICATIONS AM, FM, TURN -KEY SYSTEMS Consultation Cable Systems Antenna Design, Proofs; Fieldwork DESIGN á DOCUMENTATION Engineering & Design Corporate Facilities 2684 State Route 60 RD "1 EQUIPMENT SALES Installations Broadcast Facilities Training Teleproduction Facilities Loudonville, OH 44842 CAD SERVICES 751 -5655 419 -994 -3849 1465 PALISADE AVE., TEANECK, NJ 07666 / (201) 837 -8424 52 Ralph Street, Belleville, NJ 07109 (201) Radio Systems Engineering BIGGER HALF MEDIA SYSTEMS INC. 01 AN & ASSOCIATES FCC Application. CORPORATE AND COMMERCIAL lit vine, D4.1 .4+nN1 S AA 114, MA10,111, N nul RIT ATNIns System. Deign lnstauat.ns Property Evaluation VIDEO AND MULTI -MEDIA ENVIRONMENTS 2212 HEN11ACr WAY AM -FM CURTIS J. CHAN DESIGN - INSTALLATION - CONSULTATION CA 92633 PRESIDE, NOWPeoni: (714) 447 -4993 }4w TEL. (919) 489 -5580 JOEL APPELBAUM Fvn: (7141578 -0284 3031 Dogwood Lan. 800-399-1501 Florence. SC 29505 803-661 2933 I.K.r.a PRESIDENT PAC.: (7141 506-1357 Classified FOR SALE Factory Direct Cases STUDIO EXCHANGE BURBANK Our prices Custom or HAVE CABLES (818) 840 -1351 FAX (818) 840 -1354 can't Stock ASSEMBLED - BULK CUSTOM Sizes NEW & USED VIDEO EQPMT. he heat. BUY, SELL, CONSIGN; Call for 800-645-1707 25 YRS. EXP. Catalogue or Quote In NY 516-563-1181 Road), Products, Int. i Fax: SI6-563-1390 4 rl This Just In! THE SIGN OF QUALITY TBC REMOTE CONTROL DUBNER 20-K Character Generator with 10MB HAVE PROFLEX- up to four VTR's. Bernoulli Drive and Presentation Graphics memories per VTR. Dp11P1EE0 BELDEN Bal readouts to record Software. $10,000 E -CON re sessions. GVG 100 -N Switcher w/ Serial Interface. $5,500 r AA/i'4/4 RANK MK -III Digiscan IV Telecine System with WEST PENN WIRE Time Logic Control Editor, DaVinci Color MOGAMI Corrector, and morel Call for a taxable FREE CATALOG of AudqlVideo Tape, 1111 IN NB IN description. CALL! Cable, Equipment, Acessones, Supplies SONY BVU -950 U- matic -SP VTR CALL! SONY BVW -70 Betacam -SP VTR CALL! 518/828 -2000 309 POWER AVE, HUDSON, NEW YORK 12534 COlti7ip6cIñ1ehliirvia NUCOR VIUtU tOUlfi/}J Ile VETERANS DRIVE. NORTHVALE, NJ 07647 CHICAGO 312 334 4300 (800) 526 -0242 FAX (201) 767 -7377 SONY . AMPEX . BTS DUBNER GRASSVALLEY PANASONIC RS422 VTR REMOTE CONTROL with TIMECODE DISPLAY & JOGWHEEL If You're Looking For the Best in Used Equipment SONY, AMPEX, JVC, BTS and You Want the BEST: . DEAL . VALUE . SERVICE PANASONIC, HITACHI CALL MIDWEST: (708) 251 -0001 . CANADA (604) 850 -7969 Low Cost - Lots of features DNF INDUSTRIES AUDIO/VIDEO EXCHANGE, INC. (213) 650 -5256 LA, CA 90069 1131 Central Ave. Wilmette, Illinois 60091 International Brokers and Appraisers Serving the Audio / Video Industry Circle (65) on Reply Card DUB FRIENDLY. Make dubs on recycled video EL tapes. Save money, save the BE CLASSIFIEDS planet. Every tape guaranteed. (800) 2384300 913 -967 -1732 Ask for Renée. For more info, or to order, call: ' August1994 Broadcast Engineering 73 www.americanradiohistory.com Classified FOR SALE .i Sony Interface for your e .tr Itec.at1t Advertise in BE Classifieds VPR -2 or BVH -1100 CS Recorders.Switcher.s Cameras Tri od.s Audio NEW & USED and see how Convert Sony serial to parallel conhol. Sony BVP -7 3 -CCD Camera -10,500 your money Complete editing capability. Panasonic AG -7750 S -VHS Editor -4,250 R5 -422 Interface for editors and automation. speaks for you. COMrols ATM's and VCR's. Ikegami HC -340 3 -CCD Camera -7,500 Call Renée Sony VO -9850 3/4" SP Editor -6,500 Hambleton Sony PVW -2800 Betacam Editor -14,000 Sensational TODAY! at Sony BVH - 2000 -22,000 ALL NEW (913) 967 -1732 Phantom II VTR Emulator Grass Valley 200 -2ME- 52,000 SUMMER or fax FOR INFORMATION: BUY CONSIGN SELL CATALOGUE SERVICE TRADE (913) 967 -1735 Call 1- 800 -331 -9066 RCS- LA:818- 551 -5858 BCS- NY:212- 268 -8800 cipher digital 30 W. PATRICK ST. , SUITE 310 (D FREDERICK. MD 21701 Circle (66) on Reply Card FOR SALE: PANASONIC - RAMSA - SANYO - SHARP - TASCAM - TECHNICS - BOGEN - MAXELL: Professional/ Make One Call PIG- E -BAKT" Industrial /Security Video & Audio Equipment. Whole- sale Prices! Factory New Warranty! Sales = 800 -233 -2430, Broadcast Engineering & New Support = 607-687 -0545. Maintenance Supplies microphone (2) YAMAHA M406 RACK MIXERS, 6 x 2, .4, -10 sub in/ out, stereo aux., phantom power. mint, massive head- placement room. zero noise floor. Call Dan - (216) 923-9856. $575 \ Cable /Connectors each. Tools/Tool Kits system FOR SALE: One inch Hitachi HR 200B machine. Operat- 4 Test Equipment ing hours 2581. Head only 700 hours!! Parallel interface Mounts to top, sides, or bottom of another to controllers. Jog/Shuttle feature. Best Offer. Call (408) 4 Cases /Shipping Containers 997 -7679. I/ Wire Distribution Products microphone and locks EMC PRIME -TIME, DIGITAL NON -LINEAR EDITOR: Ofl- 4 Fiber Optics, and more Adjusts for height, angle and position Line, 486 complete turn -key system. Generales an EDL Clamp pads made of shock absorption material for On -Line final editing. Includes all hardware and Top quality products, free software. Like new demo unit. S10,000. Call 407 -696-4086 shipping, and dependable, to reduce shock & vibration for specific details. experienced technical support. Weighs approx. 4 oz. RADIO BROADCAST FACILITIES available November Virtually unbreakable I. Atlanta, Georgia. Broadcast equipment and office FREE CATALOG Ac- cetera, Inc. furniture. Reply to Broadcast Engineering. Dept. 747, P.O. Box 12901, Overland Park, KS 66282 -2901. 3120 Rd. Jensen Tools Inc Ac-cetera Banksville Ak'set or Pittsburgh, PA 15216 7815 S. 46th St., Phoenix, AZ 85044 1. 800. 537.3491, EQUIPMENT WANTED Ph: 800-426-1194 Fax: 800-366-9662 412-344-8609, FAX 412-344-0818 WANTED: USED VIDEO EQUIPMENT. Systems or components. PRO VIDEO & FILM EQUIPMENT GROUP: the largest USED equipment dealer in the Circle (67) Reply U.S.A. (214) on Card 869-0011. HELP WANTED ESPN HAS IMMEDIATE OPENING for an individual LANDMARK COMMUNICATIONS has an immediate 3 -5 years with in broadcast equipment maintenance. opening for a broadcast maintenance engineer. Must Digital and experience the ability to diagnose and have a minimum of two years electronics training or troubleshoot to the component level Is required. Com- PLACE equivalent broadcast engineering experience. Candi- puter literacy, FCC General License and satellite uplink dates knowledgeable with P /C's. Betacam, Odetics, experience are preferred. Send resume to Human Re- chnical Engineers - Editors - Colorists) Quanlel. Ampex. and Grass Valley equipment desired. sources Department, ESPN. Inc., ESPN Plaza, Bristol. Shift work required. Competitive salary and benefits CT 06010. ESPN is an Equal Opportunity /Affirmative All Levels, Locations & Disciplines - package offered. Send resume to Landmark Commu- Action Employer. nications, Engineering Department, 2600 Cumberland ployer Paid Fees - Guaranteed Pkwy., Atlanta. GA 30339. EOE. ENJOY LIVING AND WORKING IN TULSA. Chief Engi- neer /Maintenance Engineer combination. UHF nfidential. Fifteen Years Service TECHNICIAN: Experienced and entry level positions experience a must. KDOR TV 17, 2120 N. Yellowood. Employer & Employee. Contact available. AA in electronics required. Work on broad- Broken Arrow, OK 74012. EOE. cast MII video tape machines and cameras. Some ke Kelly, KEYSTONE INT'L., Inc., transmitter work. Drug screen required. WHAG -TV is CHIEF ENGINEER needed for West Central Nebraska NBC a small market NBC affiliate. We offer a comprehen- Affiliate, with Laflin Road, Pittston, PA 18640 maintenance skills, VHF transmitter, satel- sive benefit package. including 401(k) and Section 125 lite facilities. Good with people. Good benefits and good Fax - (717) 654 -5765 plans. Send resume and salary requirements to Per- salary. EEO employer. Send resume to General Manager. sonnel, WHAG -TV. Dept. Z, 13 East Washington Street, KNOP TV, PO Box 749. North Platte, Nebraska 69103. Phone - (717) 655 -7143. Hagerstown. MD 21740. No Phone Calls. EOE. CHIEF ENGINEER /BENCH TECHNICIAN: for Chicago PROMOTION MANAGER. Single station market, ABC post- production house. Minimum 5 years experience in Affiliate with FOX football, beautiful Shenandoah general video and system maintenance with emphasis on SONY PRODUCT SUPPORT ENGINEER. You'll provide Valley of Virginia awaits the experienced promotion Beta-Cam, I" & D2. Operation knowledge of editing sys- national level technical support for assigned products. person. Must be able to write, edit and produce on air tem desirable. Sony factory training desired. Must exhibit Must be knowledgeable in engineering and servicing of promos. Media planning and implementation creden- ability to teach and motivate. Send resume with salary professional video recorder formats including 8mm, tials important. Send resume to Bob Ganzer, General and requirements N. history to P.O. Box 1045, 734 LaSalle VHS and Betacam formats. BS in a technical field and Manager. WHSV -TV, P.O. Box TV 3. Harrisonburg. VA St., Chicago. IL 60610. Attn: Mr. Gongorki. 5. years' related experience strongly preferred. Send 22801. EOE. resume to: Sony, Human Resources. Attn: Catherine For Classified Advertising or Boarders, 3300 Zanker Road, San Jose. CA 95134-1940. CHIEF ENGINEER: Southeast Boston area combo We are proud to be an EEO /AA employer M/F/D/V. studio R.F. Professional Services seeks aggressive and engineer. Experience Women and minorities are encouraged to apply. Also, in networked digital hard drive audio a plus. Send information Call Renée Hambleton at (913) we maintain a drug free workplace and perform pre- resume to: Broadcast Engineering. Dept. 746. P.O. 967 -1732 FAX (913) 967 -1735 d employment substance ahuse testing. SONY. Box 12901, Overland Park. KS 66282 -2901. 74 Broadcast Engineering August 1994 www.americanradiohistory.com Classified New Products HELP WANTED TAFT BROADCASTING COMPANY Taft Broadcasting Company is growing. Continued from page 70 Rack system We are seeking Engineers, Techni- By Ramko Research cians, Operating and Production per- Digital video disk recorders sonnel with all levels of experience in By Recognition Concepts, Inc. the broadcast industry. Taft Broad- VDR 4000 and VDR 5000 series: VDR casting is an Audio/Visual Systems 4000 component supports CCIR 601/ integrator involved in government SMPTE 125M with standard rate capaci- contracting and business to business ties of four minutes and seven minutes; broadcasting providing sound sys- VDR 5000 component /composite sup- tems, closed circuit cable microwave ports CCIR601 /SMPTE 125M and SMPTE TV systems, multimedia, video and 244M and offers from four to seven min- photographic image management utes of rate partitioned component stor- P-R5 ProMod module rack system:1.75- systems. If you are interested in a age and 8.2 to 13.7 minutes of composite inch x 19 -inch rack tray houses up to five progressive, growing company please storage depending on the model. of 42 ProMod ultraminia- send your resume with qualifications, Circle (371) on Reply Card the available education and salary requirements to: ture audio modules in a "face up" posi- Video processing amplifier tion; each rack comes with a UL approved, Debbie Burks By Link Electronics AC wall adapter; optional rear panel con- Taft Broadcasting Company nector plates available for XLR, barrier 16441 Space Center Blvd., Bldg. A strip, I/ -inch jacks. DIN, etc. Houston, Texas 77508 Circle (375) on Reply Card No Phone Calls Principals Only Please PRC -960: designed for any application Amplifiers By R.L. EOE/AA where new processed sync and burst is Drake required; the front panel has video level, DDA -1218 and DDA-1236 distribution for in WRDW.TV has an opening for Maintenance Enginee chroma gain, pedestal, white clip, video amplifiers: designed applications with specific knowledge and formal training at leve AGC, threshold, horizontal phase and TV distribution systems; DDA -1218 of- equivalent to two years college in Electronics Engineer ing Technology and two years experience repairin burst phase controls; the video AGC is fers 18dB of gain while DDA -1236 offers electronic broadcast equipment at component level incorporated into the brightness, con- 36dB of gain; one -piece construction with Must have working knowledge of computers. Transmit ter experience or SBE certification a plus. Resumes to trast and chroma level circuitry and can built -in power supply and continuous Jim Myers, CE; WRDW -TV, P.O. Box 1212, Augusta. GA is frequency coverage from 40MHz to 30903-1212. EOE. be defeated; an auxiliary input provid- ed; the PRC -960 will output blackburst 1,000MHz. ENGINEERING SUPERVISOR: Technical Maintenance Circle (376) on Reply Card and operation of satellite truck Involving travel and with the absence of an input signal. maintenance of broadcast tape and studio equipment. Circle (372) on Reply Card Also, ENG equipment and UHF translators. High school Playback card diploma and experience necessary. Send resumes to: Barry Erick, Chief Engineer, 62 South Franklin Street. Consoles By Digidesign Wilkes- Barre. PA 18773. Equal Opportunity Employer. By Otani SampleCell 11:16 -bit stereo, 32- voice, 32 Status RP: the first in a line of digitally megabyte sample playback card avail- SERVICES 1 controlled analog consoles with onboard able for Windows /PC platform; features automation and a complete set of com- dynamic digital filtering and eight poly- ÿxeela.ul Praducdi, puter- controlled features; each input phonic analog outputs; includes two CD- module has two independent signal paths ROM sound library discs. Se,«wg rke re.td evirG guatsYy Circle (377) on Reply Card yeóuíU ea. 4GfU /940. and a 4 -band equalizer; the 12 -track bus- es and 8-aux buses can be sourced from t tl I Il1DAY FORA FREE INFORMATION PACKET either signal path, while the stereo pro- Safe area generator i 12 Highway 25 Covington. LA 70433 gram bus may be sourced from all paths By Broadcast Video Systems .un 624 -7b26 5114493 -12243 Fax 504 -892 -7323 simultaneously. SA104 single board safe area genera- Circle (373) on Reply Card tor capable of being plugged into a Grass Valley or Leitch distribution amplifier BIG DOG COMMUNICATIONS Digital video editor frame; locks to incoming video; digital- System Design and Integration By Touch Vision Systems ly generated patterns are inserted by Installation Troubleshooting D/Vision - Pro version 2.2: offers com- an onboard keyer and remote con- DIGITAL VIDEO RF AUDIO positioning, motion control effects, auto- trolled; safe action and title area, cen- (209) 962 -6254 batch digitizing with machine control, film ter cross and blanking markers can be P.O. Box 39, Groveland, CA 95321 cutting lists, importing and editing of AVI selected individually or simultaneous- files, improved on -line EDLs and graphics ly, or a positionable full- screen cross quality; features professional on -line EDLs, hair can be displayed; stand -alone ver- TRAINING 3-D text, graphics and animation, six chan- sion also available. nels of CD -rate digital audio, up to 100 Circle (378) on Reply Card I-CC Gi.NERA1. CLASS LICENSE. Cassette recorded hours of instantly accessible video and lessons for home study. Our 30th year preparing radio technicians for the license. Bob Johnson Tele- SupeRTV video compression quality. communications. Phone (310) 379 -4461. Circle (374) on Reply Card August 1994 Broadcast Engineering 75 www.americanradiohistory.com Ad Index Reader Reader Page Service Advertiser Page Service Advertiser Number Number Hotline Number Number Hotline Abekas Video Systems 19 9 415- 369 -5111 Matrox Electronic Systems 25 21 800 -361 -4903 ADC Telecommunications 5,53 15,45 .. 800 -726 -4266 Midwest Audio /Video Exchange .. 73 65 708- 251 -0001 ADM Systems, Inc. 50,52 41,43 .. 313- 932 -1993 Miller Fluid Heads 44 26 201 -473 -9592 Anthro Co. 24 503- 241 -7113 NEC Corp. 33 24 800 -323 -6656 ASC Audio Video Corporation 23 20 818- 843 -7004 NVision, Inc. 56 47 916 -265 -1000 Audio Precision 13 6 800 -231 -7350 Odetics, Inc. IFC 1 800 -243 -2001 Belar Electronics Laboratory 32 14 215- 687 -5550 Opamp Labs, Inc. 52 44 213 -934 -3566 Belden Wire & Cable 36 27 800 -235 -3364 Orban, Div. of AKG Acoustics 7 16 510 -351 -3500 B &H Photo - Video 67,68 -69 50,51 .. 800 -221 -5662 Panasonic Broadcast & TV 35 800 -524 -0864 Broadcast Video Systems Ltd..... 70 52 905 -764 -1584 Quantel 1 4 203 -656 -3100 BTS Broadcast TV Systems 15 7 800 -962 -4BTS Roland Corp. US 21 19 213- 685 -5141 Canare Cable, Inc. 30 12 818- 365 -2446 Sachtler AG 9,17 17,8 32- 909 -150 Cipher Digital, Inc. 74 66 800- 331 -9066 Sierra Video Systems 57 36 916- 478 -1000 Ciprico 31 11 612 -551 -4037 Storeel 32 13 404 -458 -3280 Clear -Corn Intercom Systems 27 23 510 -527 -6666 Studio Audio & Video Limited 11 18 353 -648 -888 COMSAT RSI, Mark Antennas .... 38 30 708 -298 -9420 Tascam/TEAC America, Inc. 59 39 213 -726 -0303 Conex Electro Systems 66 49 206 -734 -4323 Tektronix, Inc. 71 70 800 -TEK -WIDE Dynatech Video Group 66 48 801- 575 -8801 Telex Communications, ESE 72 53 310- 322 -2136 Inc. 41,62 -63 31,40 .. 800 -554 -0716 Fostex Corp. of America 55 46 310- 921 -1112 Thomson Broadcast IBC 2 800 -882 -1824 Gentner Communications 37 28 801 -975 -7200 Trompeter Electronics 51 42,60 .. 818- 707 -2020 Harris Allied 3 5 800 -622 -0022 Vega, A Mark IV Company 39 29 818- 442 -0782 Hewlett Packard 46 -47 34 800- 452 -4844 Vistek Electronics Limited 45 33 628 -531 -221 Intertec /HDTV Conference 71 800 -458 -0479 The Winsted Corporation 58 38 612 -944 -8556 Jensen Tools Inc. /AXIA Ent. 74 67 602 -968 -6231 Wohler Technologies, Inc. 58 37 415 -589 -5676 Lectrosonics 43 25 800 -821 -1121 3M Pro Audio /Video Products 29 10 612 -733 -1959 Leitch Incorporated BC 3 800 -231 -9673 360 Systems 48 35 818- 991 -0360 Lightwave Systems, Inc. 40 32 214 -741 -5142 Advertising sales offices NEW YORK, NEW YORK AGOURA HILLS, CALIFORNIA TOKYO, JAPAN Gordon & Associate Dunne Hefiter Orient Echo, Inc. Josh Gordon 5236 Colodny Ave., Suite 108 Mashv Yoshikawa 210 President Street Agoura Hills. CA 91301 1101 Grand Maison Brooklyn. NY 11231 Telephone: (818) 707 -6476 Shimomiyabi -Cho 2- I8 Telephone: (718) 802 -0488 FAX: (818) 707 -2313 Shinjuku-ku, Tokyo 162. Japan FAX: (718) 522 -4751 SANTA MONICA, CALIFORNIA Telephone: (3) 3235 -5961 Joanne Melton MC' Magazine Communications Marketing Corp. FAX: (3) 3235 -5852 Telex: J MYORIENT 888 7th Avenue. 38th Floor Jason Perlman -33376 New York, NY 10106 Telephone: (310) 458 -9987 CLASSIFIED ADVERTISING Telephone: (212) 332 -0628 FAX: (310) 393 -2381 OVERLAND PARK, KANSAS FAX: (212) 332 -0663 Deborah Kern Renée Hamhleton Phone: 310-458-8080 P.O. Box 12901 OXFORD, ENGLAND FAX: 310 -393 -2381 Overland Park, KS 66282 Richard Woolley 501 Santa Monica Blvd., Suite 401 (913) 967 -1732 FAX: (913) 967 -1735 Intertec Publishing Corp. Santa Monica. CA 90401 Unit 3, Farm Business Centre, CHICAGO, ILLINOIS Clifton Road, Deddington, Vytas Crbonas Oxford OX 15 4TP England 55 East Jackson, Suite 1 100 Telephone: 338794 +44(0)1869 Chicago, IL 60604 FAX: +44 (0) 1869 338040 Telephone: (312) 435 -2361 Telex: 837 -469 BES G FAX: (312) 922 -1408 76 Broadcast Engineering August 1994 www.americanradiohistory.com As the manufacturer which performed the world's first installation of a full digital studio back iñ 1985, THOMSON BROADCAST is proud to introduce the 9200, the newest member of its digital switcher family. This unit is the crowning achievement of a design team that boasts almost a decade of experience in conceiving, manufacturing and delivering only component digital switchers. The 9200 is a compact IM /E + DSK with functional innovations that blow away the standard limitations of switchers of this size : M/E or multilayer, video or key freeze, fluorescent display, double transition, input level correction, source memory Mem Box with keyframes and sequences, timeline control, 6 auxiliary busses, and more. Besides being feature-rich, the 9200 switcher is ergonomically designed and interfaces easily with existing equipment. THOMSON has funneled its years of experience to produce a powerful, innovative component digital switcher within an affordable package. We used our expertise to do the hard work, so you won't have to. 1 THOMSON BROADCAST 9200 Component Digital Switcher Circle (2) on Reply Card - THOMSON BROADCAST 17, rue du Petit -Albi - B.P. 8244 - 95801 Cergy- Pontoise Cedex FRANCE - ^^ (1) 34.20.70.00 - Fax : (1) 34.20.70.47. - Telex : 616 780 F USA - THOMSON BROADCAST, Inc - 49, Smith Street - P.O. Box 5266 - ENGLEWOOD NJ 07631 - USA - (1 - 201) 569 1650 - Fax : (1 - 201) 569 1511 UNITED KINGDOM - THOMSON BROADCAST, Ltd -18, Horton Road - DATCHET - BERKSHIRE SL3 9ES - ENGLAND - (44 - 753) 581 122 - Fax : (44 - 753) 581 196 www.americanradiohistory.com Nein Di-ital flhw POWER. Leitch makes of errors in serial signals, as Digital Glue "', the well as being broadcast industry's leading future -proofed for digital audio and video prospective 360Mb /s standards. interface, distribution, routing, Combine these enhanced synchronizing and test features with our reputation for equipment. We offer you more quality and reliability and it is no innovative features coincidence that we are the choice than any other of thousands of users, world -wide. people in the 'digital world'. So, when you are considering Input presence detectors, bit 'digital glue', check what you're really rate indicators, equalization getting - choose Leitch and DATA alarms and automatic standards you won't be making any LOCKED selectors, to name just a few. compromises. You can be totally Additionally, Leitch provides confident that you are obtaining the many products already equipped very latest technology. with EDH (Error Detection & Handling) Call us today for our new for quantitive measurement 100 page Digital Glue'" catalog. CLOCK PRESENT LEITCH® Leitch Incorporated, 920 Corporate Lane, Chesapeake, Virginia 23320 -3641 - Tel: 1- 800 -231 -9673 or 1 -804 -548 -2300 Fax: 1- 804 - 548 -4088 Leitch Technology International Inc., 25 Dyas Road, North York, Ontario, Canada M3B 1V7 - Tel: 1- 800-387 -0233 or 1- 416- 445 -9640 Fax: 1- 416-445 -0595 Leitch Europe Limited, 24 Campbell Court, Bramley, Basingstoke, Hampshire RG26 5EG, UK - Tel: +44 (0) 256 880088 Fax: +44 (0) 256 880428 Circle (3) on Reply Card www.americanradiohistory.com