JULY/AUGUST 1999 VOLUME 10 NUMBER 4 Tweeker Use ............................................................3 Extron’s New Handbook ..........................................4 Digital Video............................................................5 New Products ..........................................................6 Unique Techniques ................................................10 Tech Corner: RS-232 Control ................................12 New News ..............................................................14 In This Issue: Extron’s DDS 100 is a Digital Display Scaler that scales incoming computer- video signals up or down to match the native resolution of the digital display device being used. Digital display devices are increasingly taking the place of CRT projectors in new A/V systems as well as installation upgrades. Most fixed-pixel displays require specific resolutions in order to produce the highest-quality images possible. Extron’s DDS 100 accepts computer-video reso- lutions up to 1600 x 1280, with hori- zontal scan rates from 24 kHz to 100 kHz and vertical scan rates from 50 Hz to 120 Hz. Extron’s DDS 100 offers a wide variety Battle of the Bands DDS 100– Extron’s New Scaler for Digital Display Devices THE ALL STAR BAND EXTRON’S DDS 100—DIGITAL DISPLAY SCALER (continued on page 2) of output rates at computer-video, plasma, and HDTV resolutions. As a convenient memory feature, Extron’s DDS 100 memory holds 130 locations that store scan rates and associ- ated size, zoom, pan, centering, and filter settings for up to 130 source signals. Extron’s DDS 100 offers four levels of horizontal filtering and ten levels of vertical filtering to reduce jitter, improve image stability, and minimize loss of picture detail. To adjust displayed images, Extron’s DDS 100 features variable zoom control as well as horizontal and vertical centering/pan controls. In order to make these For many, Extron’s annual party has become one of the highlights of every INFOCOMM, and this year’s “Ship Wreck Bash” in Orlando, Florida was no exception. There was food, games, crab races, alligators, Gilligan, and of course, one of the biggest Battle of the Bands ever. What’s the Battle of the Bands? Not really a battle at all, but a friendly venue for A/V professionals to escape the rigors of INFOCOMM by performing their favorite blues and rock n’roll tunes for the crowd. Over the next few issues of ExtroNews, we’ll highlight the perfor- mance of each band that rocked the stage at Extron’s Ship Wreck Bash. THE ALL-STAR BAND While the majority of bands appearing at Extron’s INFOCOMM parties draw their members from a single company, the All-Star Band, which was joined this year by groups from BARCO, Electrohome, and NEC, brings together representatives of several industry leaders. (continued on page 3)
Transcript
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Tweeker Use ............................................................3Extron’s New Handbook ..........................................4Digital Video............................................................5New Products ..........................................................6Unique Techniques ................................................10Tech Corner: RS-232 Control ................................12New News..............................................................14
In This Issue:
Extron’s DDS 100 is a Digital DisplayScaler that scales incoming computer-video signals up or down to match thenative resolution of the digital displaydevice being used. Digital displaydevices are increasingly taking the placeof CRT projectors in new A/V systemsas well as installation upgrades. Mostfixed-pixel displays require specificresolutions in order to produce thehighest-quality images possible. Extron’sDDS 100 accepts computer-video reso-lutions up to 1600 x 1280, with hori-zontal scan ratesfrom 24 kHz to 100 kHz and verticalscan rates from 50 Hz to 120 Hz.Extron’s DDS 100offers a wide variety
Battle of the Bands
DDS 100–Extron’s New Scaler for Digital Display Devices
THE ALL STAR BAND
EXTRON’S DDS 100—DIGITAL DISPLAY SCALER
(continued on page 2)
of output rates at computer-video, plasma, and HDTVresolutions.
As a convenient memory feature, Extron’s DDS 100memory holds 130 locations that store scan rates and associ-ated size, zoom, pan, centering, and filter settings for up to130 source signals. Extron’s DDS 100 offers four levels ofhorizontal filtering and ten levels of vertical filtering toreduce jitter, improve image stability, and minimize loss ofpicture detail. To adjust displayed images, Extron’s DDS100 features variable zoom control as well as horizontal andvertical centering/pan controls. In order to make these
For many, Extron’s annual party hasbecome one of the highlights of everyINFOCOMM, and this year’s “ShipWreck Bash” in Orlando, Florida was noexception. There was food, games, crabraces, alligators, Gilligan, and of course,one of the biggest Battle of the Bandsever. What’s the Battle of the Bands? Notreally a battle at all, but a friendly venuefor A/V professionals to escape the rigorsof INFOCOMM by performing theirfavorite blues and rock n’ roll tunes forthe crowd. Over the next few issues ofExtroNews, we’ll highlight the perfor-mance of each band that rocked the stageat Extron’s Ship Wreck Bash.
THE ALL-STAR BANDWhile the majority of bands appearing atExtron’s INFOCOMM parties draw theirmembers from a single company, theAll-Star Band, which was joined thisyear by groups from BARCO,Electrohome, and NEC, brings togetherrepresentatives of several industry leaders.
(continued on page 3)
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ExtroNews™
Technical Editors: Jim Scrivner, Roger McCarten, Pat Charlton,
Joe da Silva, Mike Fitzgerald, Chris ElmoreGraphic Designers: Jill Streit, Cyme Azar
Technical Illustrator: Randy DrummTechnical Writers: Bill Field, June Lee
PR/Media Manager: Rosia Senh
President: Andrew EdwardsV.P., Finance: Ed Ellingwood
V.P., Operations: Bob NicholsV.P., Product Development: Dave Pincek
V.P., R&D: Brian TaraciV.P., Engineering: Steve Somers
V.P., Human Resources: Joanne GrushV.P., Information Technologies: Ivan Perez
Director of Sales: Jeff GibsonPacific Rim Sales Manager: Geoff Abbott
We welcome your comments andcontributions! Please submit ideas to
Marketing Dept. • 714.491.1500800.633.9876
Volume 10, Number 4 July/Aug, 1999ExtroNews is published by ExtronElectronics/ RGB Systems Inc. 1230 SouthLewis Street, Anaheim, CA 92805. All rightsreserved. No portion of this newsletter maybe reproduced in any form without writtenpermission from the managing editor ofExtron Electronics’ ExtroNews. Every efforthas been made to ensure accuracy in con-tent; however, Extron assumes no responsi-bility for errors and omissions in the infor-mation provided herein. ExtroNews is sentfree of charge to communication industryprofessionals and end-users. Send addresschanges, requests for copies, and editorialcorrespondence to: Marketing Dept., ExtronElectronics, at the address above, or call714.491.1500 or 800.633.9876; FAX714.491.1978. Printed in the United Statesof America.
(continued on page 13)
MENU FREEZE/RESET
NEXTDDS 100
DIGITAL DISPLAY SCALER
50/60 Hz 0.5A100-240
INPUT/LOOP OUT
CENTERING/PAN
R G B H/HV V
H
HV
SOG
R G B H/HV V
VGA OUT
EXTRON DDS 100
DIGITAL SCALER
RS-232 Control
DDS 100
oror
RS-232
REMOTE
High Resolution Workstation LCD Projector
INPUT OUTPUT
Plasma Display LCD Display
DDS 100 APPLICATION DIAGRAM
adjustments, RS-232 control and front panelcontrol are available.
APPLICATIONSDigital display devices may be foundanywhere, from a distance learningclassroom to a corporate conference roomto a community auditorium. But not everycomputer will output images at the specificresolutions required. When high-resolutionSUN, SGI, or CAD workstation imagesneed to be displayed on a digital displaydevice, there may be difficulties. Sometimesthe display device won’t lock onto higherresolution signals, or the display device’sinternal scaler won’t scale down signalsproperly. An external scaler, such asExtron’s DDS 100, is designed to handlesuch difficulties.
Extron’s DDS 100 is ideal for applicationsrequiring lower-resolution computer-videoto be displayed on higher-resolution digitaldisplay devices. Through up-scaling,Extron’s DDS 100 allows the user to takeadvantage of the display device’s higher-resolution capability, so an undistorted,brighter picture is displayed.
CONNECTIONSExtron’s DDS 100 provides five BNCs forRGsB, RGBS, or RGBHV inputs. Extron’sDDS 100 accepts computer-video resolu-tions up to 1600 x 1280, with horizontalscan rates from 24 kHz to 100 kHz andvertical scan rates from 50 Hz to 120 Hz.Five additional BNCs are provided for localmonitor loop-out, so images can bepreviewed on a local monitor.
Extron’s DDS 100 offers a variety ofcomputer-video, Plasma, and HDTV outputrates. For computer-video, Extron’s DDS100 offers these output rates: 640 x 480, 800x 600, 832 x 624, and 1024 x 768. Reflectingthe growing presence of Plasma displays byFujitsu, NEC, Pioneer, and others, Extron’sDDS 100 outputs Plasma rates: 848 x 480,852 x 480, 1280 x 768, and 1360 x 765.Extron’s DDS 100 is also suitable for hometheaters, offering the HDTV 720p rate.Scaled RGB output is available on a femaleVGA connector or five BNCs, so an adaptercable might not be needed to connectExtron’s DDS 100 to the display.
Although most digital display devicesrequire RGBHV input, Extron’s DDS 100
offers a choice of sync configuration whenRGsB or RGBS is needed. With a flick ofthe sync selection switch, output sync isavailable as sync on green, compositesync, or separate horizontal and verticalsync.
PICTURE-PERFECTTo control image quality, Extron’s DDS 100offers four levels of horizontal filtering toimprove image detail as well as ten levels
DDS 100– continued from page 1
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“There’s so many ex-professional musicians,and there’s actually some guys that are stillplaying professionally,” says Peter Putman ofPHP Communications. Putman is one of theindustry’s most well known writers andconsultants, and is among many in the A/Vindustry that have spent time on and behindthe stage. Don Stewart of StewartFilmscreen adds: “Many musicians end upin this industry, so you do have some goodtalent.”
Enter RP Higgins of Electrohome, who in1995 recognized that this large pool of talentwas out there just waiting to be tapped. “Itwas my idea to come together with somethingthat wasn’t a competition, because theshootout was competition enough,” saysHiggins, referring to the side by side compar-ison of projectors chaired by Extron’s VicePresident of Engineering. The ICIA-sponsoredShootOut has become synonymous withINFOCOMM. “We wanted to make this morea bury-the-hatchet sort of thing and have somefun.” It didn’t take long for a line-up to be put
together, and true to Higgins’ aim, manydirect competitors happily fill the ranks of theband. “It’s nice that the guys I played withwere from BARCO and Electrohome, andthere was no industry animosity,” says KeithFrey of Digital Projections. “We were justhaving a lot of fun.”
The All-Stars played the 1995 and 1996INFOCOMM shows, but were unable to gettogether again until 1999. The story goes thatPutman ran into Higgins at this year’sNational Association of Broadcasters conven-tion in Las Vegas, where Higgins told Putman“We’re getting the band back together.”Putman started thinking this sounded an awfullot like something he heard in a movie, butsigned on anyway. The finished line-up: BruceAllers of BARCO, guitar; Wayne Bickley ofElectrohome, drums; Frey of DigitalProjections, guitar; Rich Macpherson ofNEC, guitar; Putman, keyboards; and two ofthe Stewart brothers from Stewart Filmscreen:Don on bass, Tom on tambourine. Higginslent his guitar and voice to the mix.
The obvious problem involved with assem-bling a band from different companies andopposite sides of the U.S. is getting themtogether to rehearse. Unlike the company
based bands, some of the All-Stars did noteven meet until the show itself, and the firstpractice of the entire band occurred only 30minutes before the show started. Prior to that,Putman and Higgins had convinced a hotelmanager to let the two of them use a ballroomwith an upright piano, and the night before theshow, some of the band members jammed inDon Stewart’s hotel room. By all accounts,the neighbors were not amused.
The show did go on, with the All-Stars openingwith Van Morrison’s “Domino,” followed byRP Higgin’s ode to INFOCOMM: “The Shoot-out Blues,” and closing with Check Berry’s“Johnny B. Goode.” The fact that the All-Starsmanaged a credible performance despite theirlack of rehearsal time can be attributed to theirknowledge of the songs and their experience asmusicians. Getting eight guys to sound goodtogether is not exactly easy, even with whatHiggins admits are “pretty basic” songs.Unfortunately for the All-Stars, a lightningstorm cut short their set. “I was playing a solo,and Pete [Putman] was playing keys behind meand eventually we looked up, and the crowdwas gone,” says Frey. Don Stewart adds:“There was some fear of extra pyrotechnics onthe stage.” The rain ended shortly, and the partycontinued into the night.
Nashville's Rusty Howell ofConsolidated Media Systems, Inc.and Honolulu's Rick Parlee ofAudissey have just made ExtronTweeker history. They are the first tiewinners of Extron's Tweeker Contest.Rick declares, "I am a-maize-d at theversatility of the Extron Tweeker." Well,Extron is a-maize-d at the synchronicity involved: two Tweekerfans, thousands of miles apart, comingup with the same innovation. The winning entries were even postmarkedon the exact same day: June 23, 1999.Great minds really do think alike–and at the same time!
Battle of the Bands– continued from page 1
Send us your photograph of how youuse the Tweeker. If we publish it in afuture issue of ExtroNews, we’ll give
you a free VTG 150.
Send entries to: Extron Tweeker Contest1230 S. Lewis StreetAnaheim, CA 92805
Tweeker Contest: It’s a TIE!
Rick ParleeAudissey
Rusty HowellConsolidated Media Systems
JEFF GIBSON
Training and Reference in One Package:Extron’s new Handbook Volume VIby Jeff Gibson, Director of SalesExtron is pleased to introduce the newlyrevised Handbook of Computer Interfacingand Video Distribution, Volume VI. Acomprehensive educational resource forboth veteran and new AV professionals,Volume VI is offered on CD-ROM in bothdomestic and international versions. As theAV industry continues to undergo tremen-dous growth and develop emerging tech-nologies, AV professionals need to educatethemselves constantly to keep up with allthe changes. Extron respects the need foreducation and continues to providevaluable training to AV industry membersthrough resources such as Extron School,Extron School On the Road, and Extron’sHandbook of Computer Interfacing andVideo Distribution.
Extron’s Handbook VI CD-ROM is loadedwith new training materials, includingupdated articles from previous HandbookVolumes I through V, new articles forHandbook Volume VI, new system designexercises, a reference list of graphic cardpin configurations, an updated trouble-shooting guide, and a comprehensiveglossary of AV industry terms. Extron’sHandbook CD-ROM is housed in a binderwith room and tabs for other Extron litera-ture: over 100 pages of expandedcross-reference lists for
computer and graphics cards as well aspresentation displays, Extron’s 1999-2000Product Catalog, newsletters, andbrochures. New AV professionals will findthe Handbook useful for training, whileveterans will find the Handbook useful forboth reference and advanced training, espe-cially since it pulls together new materialsfrom Vol. VI and updated materials fromfive previous generations of Extron’sHandbook, Vols. I-V.
The Handbook may be used as part of atraining curriculum, beginning with intro-ductory articles about AV industry funda-mentals every newcomer should know,such as the video food chain, computersystems, and bandwidth. Intermediate-levelarticles introduce and discuss frequentlyused video technologies and applications,like interfacing and switching. Advancedarticles discuss more recent technologies,such as matrix switching, scan conversion,and video equalizing. For experienced AVindustry members, these articles may beused as reference articles or as trainingarticles discussing evolving or new tech-nologies and applications.
For the hands-on portion of a training orrefresher course, Extron’s Handbook CDincludes a newly developed section withsystem design exercises. The exercisesinvolve realistic scenarios requiring actualproducts, whose specs may be found inExtron’s catalog and reference lists fordisplay devices and computer & graphicscards. Extron poses five common AVsystem scenarios: a videoconferencingsystem, a home theater, a boardroom, aprojector evaluation system, and acomputer lab. There are designanalysis forms and design worksheetsavailable for print-out, and the work-sheets are full-color applicationdrawings that help a systemdesigner visualize these system
scenarios. Sample solutions are illustratedat the end of this section.
Closing Extron’s Handbook CD is thereference guide section, which includes areference list of graphic card pin configura-tions, a full-color troubleshooting guide, anda full-color glossary of AV industry terms.
Extron’s Handbook VI is being released ina PC- and Mac-compatible CD-ROMformat. The CD-ROM format provides auser with advantages that a print formatdoes not provide: portability, a table ofcontents with direct links to all Handbooksections, and full-color print capability.Previously, a user would have to take theentire Handbook binder home for study orout to an installation site as reference.Now Handbook VI is conveniently locatedon one lightweight and portable CD thatfits into a pocket of a tote bag. Since thetable of contents has direct links to thematerials listed, a user can easily look upany topic and go immediately to the appro-priate article. For further study, a user mayprint out Handbook materials in full color,since the Handbook offers full-color appli-cation drawings, especially handy for visu-alizing RGBHV cabling.
Extron’s Handbook Vol. VI (Domestic PN:67-051-01 and International PN: 67-051-02) lists for $60.00 (US Dollars). If youhave any questions, please contact anExtron Customer Support Representativeat: 714.491.1500 (Extron USA);+31.33.453.4040 (Extron Europe); or+65.226.0015 (Extron Asia).
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STEVE SOMERS
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Digital Video:Are You 4:2:2 Compliant?by Steve Somers, V.P. Engineering
Maintaining the original quality of ananalog event is paramount in the televi-sion broadcast industry. This concernalone drove the development andadoption of the ubiquitous digitalrecording format referred to usingvarious names: 4:2:2 ComponentDigital, CCIR 601, D1, or perhaps SDI(Serial Digital Interface).
Why is digital “anything” better than itsanalog version? The reason digital is“better” has to do with its ability toreplicate information consistently withvery little or no degradation from time-to-time, or copy-to-copy. This isbecause information used to replicate ananalog event is saved as a stream ofnumbers representing “samples” of theanalog level over time. In other words,as the analog event is occurring, ourrecording system is precisely measuringthe video level at regularly controlledtime intervals and storing only the valuemeasured. Capturing data fromsomething at regular intervals is called“sampling”. If the recorded samples are
“played back” under the same samplingtime interval with the reverse samplingprocess, the original event is restored.The value here is obvious for therecording of any analog event. Thedecision-making process for the designof a digital recording system involvesmany parameters among which are:How often to sample? What measure-ment resolution do I need? Do I haveenough storage space for all thesenumbers? Can I transmit the informa-tion cost effectively? Can I do it in realtime?
Digitizing video data generates lots ofnumbers to store. Receiving the RGBimage from camera sensors wouldgenerate three full bandwidth datachannels requiring considerable storageand processing speed. But, storing thecomponent version of the video imagerequires less bandwidth… just as it doesin the processing chain which createscomposite NTSC. So, devising a systemthat digitizes and stores the analogcomponent signal makes sense. This is
just what the CCIR 601, 4:2:2 digitalcomponent system does. And, it’s notcompressed.
YCRCB…KEY TO DIGITAL DNARecall that component video is made upof the Y channel (higher bandwidth) andtwo color components, R-Y and B-Y(lower bandwidth). Component digitalterminology for these signals is Y, Cr,Cb. A separate A-to-D (analog to digital)channel is dedicated to digitizing each ofthe components. The sampling rate mustbe the highest for the Y channel and canbe lower for the two color differencechannels. According to our father ofsampling theory, Nyquist, a signal mustbe sampled at a frequency of at least twotimes the highest input frequency. Thisensures that byproducts of the sums anddifferences of the sampling process willnot erroneously appear within thepassband of intended signal. When thisproblem does occur, we call it aliasing.
Now, although there are a number offrequencies that satisfy Nyquist andcould be used to digitize quality video,the exchange of video informationbetween standards became a greatconcern both in the U.S. and Europe.The 4:2:2 standard uses a 13.5 MHzsample rate since it satisfies the
1
Y, CR, CB Sample Y Sample Only
Scan Line
264
2
265
3
FIGURE 1. 4:2:2 ORTHOGONAL SAMPLING FOR NTSC (continued on page 16)
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Three New DedicatedInterfaces with Audio And ADSP™Extron introduces three new dedicatedcomputer-video interfaces with activeaudio interfacing: Extron’s RGB 103xifor Apple computers, RGB 109xi forSVGA/SXGA/XGA models, and RGB 112xi for workstations using the13W3 connector. Dedicated interfacesare compact, easy to use, and cost-effective solutions designed to provideconnectivity between presentationdisplay devices and a specific type ofcomputer. Several different models arenecessary to cover the range ofcomputers that may be found in aninstallation.
All three interfaces feature a scanningrange from 15 kHz to 125 kHz and 300 MHz (-3dB) RGB videobandwidth. The six BNC outputs ofeach interface will output sync on green
as well as simultaneous composite andseparate horizontal/vertical sync.Extron’s exclusive Advanced DigitalSync Processing technology – ADSP™– provides all-digital processing ofsync signals, eliminating problemssuch as image tearing and hooking thatcommonly occur when poor methodsof sync processing are used withdigital display devices (DLP, LCD,plasma, etc.). Extron’s RGB 103xi,RGB 109xi and RGB 112xi alsoprovide audio interfacing, withcomputer-generated audio signalsbeing converted to line-level balancedaudio.
POWER AND FLEXIBILITYOptional, detachable mounting kits addto the flexibility of Extron’s dedicatedinterfaces. An under-desk mounting kit
allows each interface to be mountedunder any flat surface, such as a desk,podium, table, cabinet, wall, etc.Through-desk mounting kits allow thefixed video input cables and localmonitor outputs to be easily accessed,while power, balanced audio, andvideo output cables are hidden awaybehind the surface being penetrated.Also visible from the front panel iseach interface’s scan rate indicator.This LCD display will accuratelydisplay the input signal’s horizontaland vertical sync frequencies, andindicate when the horizontal shiftfeature is in use.
The RGB 103xi (PN: 60-281-01), RGB 109xi (PN: 60-289-01) and RGB 112xi (PN: 60-282-01) list for$720 each.
For more information on these, or any other products,contact an Extron Customer Support Representative at 714.491.1500 or 800.633.9876 (Extron USA)
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digital displays. Each model has a hori-zontal scanning range from 15 kHz to 125 kHz, provides 300 MHz(-3 dB) video bandwidth, and will outputcomposite or separate horizontal andvertical sync with the flip of a switch. Syncon green is also available.
SERVICE AND PRICINGThe list prices are as follows: RGB 500 grey (PN: 60-286-01), $695;RGB 508 grey (PN: 60-287-01), $725;RGB 550 grey (PN: 60-288-01), $720;and RGB 558 grey (PN: 60-299-01), $750;—all in US Dollars.
Please contact an Extron customersupport representative for pricing onDual and Euro channel configurations,as well as models with black or whitefaceplates.
RGB 500 ArchitecturalSeries InterfacesExtron’s Architectural Series of universalcomputer-video interfaces now includes avariety of streamlined, low-profileproducts that feature Extron’s exclusiveAdvanced Digital Sync Processing(ADSP™), in addition to audio inter-facing, peaking and more: Extron’s RGB 500 series.
SOLUTIONS FOR EVERY APPLICATIONExtron’s RGB 500 Series consists of four
models: RGB 500,RGB 508, RGB550, and RGB 558.RGB 500 and RGB550 models areboth available in aDual configuration,with two fully func-tional interfaces on
a four-gang mounting plate. This providesa centralized interfacing solution formultiple computers. Extron’s RGB 508 and558 offer architectural openings that maybe used with over 100 optionalArchitectural Adapter Plates. These platesare available with many of the connectortypes used in A/V installations, and provideflexible signal pass through solutions withthe interface, saving space and eliminatingloose cables.
Extron’s RGB 500 and RGB 508 use a 9-pin input and provide switch controlled75-ohm video termination. This allowsboth models to interface with a variety ofcomputers, and provide termination formachines that require it to operate theirgraphics outputs. RGB 550 and RGB 558models use 15-pin HD connectors for theirinputs, and offer ID bit termination on pins4 and 11. These models also add the conve-nience of a buffered local monitor output.All four models are available in a Eurochannel version for electrical channel installations.
ARCHITECTURAL SERIES ADVANTAGESExtron’s Architectural Series interfacesoffer advantages such as a low profilefaceplate and shallow mounting depths foreasy, flush installation into walls, podiums,desks, or any other flat surface. Thisdesign, combined with included wallmounting plates, allows for easy installa-tion into existing walls. Faceplates areavailable in grey, black and white. Eurochannel models are only available in white.
UNIVERSAL COMPATIBILITYExtron’s RGB 500 Series universal inter-faces are compatible with nearly everycomputer and display type on the market,including VGA, SVGA, XGA, SXGA,XGA-2, MAC, SUN and SGI. Extron’sexclusive Advanced Digital SyncProcessing (ADSP™) insures compatibilityand distortion free images when used with
RGB 500
BACK VIEW OF EXTRON’S RGB 508
Extron’sRGB 550 shown inblack, greyand white.
RGB 508 SHOWN IN GREY
RGB 558 SHOWN IN BLACK
RGB 508 SHOWN IN WHITE
Architectural Adapter Plates are availablefor use on Extron’s RGB 508 and RGB 558and are available in grey, black and white.
With over 100 different plates available,they provide single connection solutionsfor nearly every installation.
RGB 130xi Universal InterfaceKit with Audio & ADSP™Extron’s 130xi Kit is designed to be theultimate interface kit for connecting high-resolution computer workstations to presen-tation systems, including those utilizingdigital displays. Extron’s 130xi Kit replacesthe 120p Kit, and features an RGB 130xiuniversal interface with features like activeaudio interfacing and ADSP™. Extron’sRGB 130xi also features 300 MHz (-3dB)video bandwidth and a horizontal scanningrange from 15 kHz to 125 kHz.
Extron’s 130xi Kit is stored in a hardplastic case and includes monitorbreakout cables for SUN, SGI, NeXT,HP, DEC, Mac, SVGA, XGA and IBMPowerPC computers. Included in the kitis our popular SRI 200 scan ratemeasuring device, and a 25-foot (7.5 meters) BNC cable for connectionto any industry standard presentationsystem. Extron’s 130xi Kit is ideal forcompanies interfacing with multipleCAD workstations and other high-reso-lution PCs. Extron’s 130xi Kit (PN: 42-028-01) lists for $1350.
SW2 VGA DA2 A/AF Switcher& Distribution AmplifierExtron introduces the SW2 VGA DA2 Aand SW2 VGA DA2 AF. Each is a surfacemountable, two input, two output combina-tion switcher and distribution amplifier.When a presenter needs to use a personallaptop and the conference room’s PC as twovideo and audio sources, the presenter mayuse Extron’s SW2 VGA DA2 A or SW2VGA DA2 AF to switch either video inputto the podium preview monitor or theprojector. With 300 MHz (-3dB) videobandwidth, the SW2 VGA DA2 A/AFswitches two VGA sources to two indepen-dently buffered VGA outputs. For audio, theSW2 VGA DA2 A/AF switches two unbal-anced stereo audio sources to one stereoaudio output, balanced or unbalanced.
RGB 190 Universal Interface KitExtron’s 190 Kit is designed for connectingany VGA, SVGA, SXGA, XGA, XGA-2,Mac, Quadra, SUN, or SGI workstation orcomputer to monitors or projection displaysystems. Extron’s 190 Kit is stored in a hardplastic case and includes Extron’s RGB 190universal computer-video interface with
350 MHz (-3dB) video bandwidth and ahorizontal scanning range from 15 kHz to150 kHz. Also included are Mac and 13W3monitor breakout cables, as well as a 25-foot(7.5 meter) BNC cable for connection to anypresentation system. The 190 Kit is perfectfor computers and workstations thatgenerate signals requiring an interface withthe highest bandwidth. The 190 Kit (PN: 42-026-01) lists for $650.00.
The video input/output connectors are 15-pin HD female connectors. For audio,Extron’s SW2 VGA DA2 A/AF provides a3.5 mm female audio jack for inputs and a3.5 mm captive screw connector for output.The sole difference between the SW2 VGADA2 A and SW2 VGA DA2 AF is inplacement of connectors for one of twoinputs. The SW2 VGA DA2 A offers allconnectors on the back panel. The SW2VGA DA2 AF offers a video connector andan audio jack for one input on the frontpanel, and all other connectors are on theback panel.
Extron’s SW2 VGADA2 A/AF is compat-ible with VGA, SVGA,XGA, SXGA, andVESA sources and
display devices. Extron’s auto-switchableSW2 VGA DA2 A/AF can switch anddistribute Mac signals by using an optionalExtron Mac/VGA adapter(s). A detachablemounting kit is included for under-deskmounting, and optional through-deskmounting brackets are available.
For Extron’s SW2 VGA DA2 A(PN: 60-297-01) and SW2 VGA DA2 AF(PN: 60-297-02), list price is $575.00 (US Dollars).
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P/2 DA 2 WMVGA Distribution Amplifierwith AudioExtron’s P/2 DA2 WM is a wall-mountable, one input, two buffered outputVGA distribution amplifier with audio.Enclosed in a two-gang box with a wall
plate available in grey, black, or white,Extron’s P/2 DA2 WM fits flush into a wall,podium, or table. This design combinesshallow depth (under two inches) with wallmounting plates for easy installation inexisting walls. With 300 MHz (-3dB) videobandwidth, the P/2 DA2 WM is compatiblewith VGA, SVGA, VESA, XGA, andSXGA graphic cards, VGA monitors,projectors, and LCD panels. Extron’s P/2 DA2 WM offers level and peakingcontrols to maintain signal integrity.
For video, Extron’s P/2 DA2 WM providesa 15-pin HD male input connector and two15-pin HD female output connectors. For
P/2 DA 2 MT VGA Distribution Amplifierwith AudioExtron’s P/2 DA2 MT is a surfacemountable, one input, two buffered output
VGA distribution amplifier with audio.Extron’s P/2 DA2 MT may be discreetlymounted under a conference table orpodium. For under-desk mounting,removable brackets are included, andoptional brackets are available for verticalmounting through a table or podium.
With a 300 MHz (-3dB) video bandwidth,Extron’s P/2 DA2 MT is compatible withVGA, SVGA, VESA, XGA, and SXGAgraphic cards, VGA monitors, projectors,and LCD panels. Extron’s P/2 DA2 MT
Extron’s DVS 100 is a digital video scalerthat scales up NTSC/PAL/SECAM videoformats to analog RGB formats atcomputer-video, plasma, or progressiveHDTV resolutions. The DVS 100 convertsthe horizontal and vertical sync timing andnumber of lines for the composite video,S-video, or component video input tomatch the native resolution of the projectoror other display device. The image is thenable to fill the entire screen horizontallyand vertically while remaining undistorted.The image brightness increases because allthe pixels of the display device are illumi-nated.
For improving picture quality, Extron’sDVS 100 offers variable top and bottomvertical blanking. Not all of the video
input’s lines are used for image informa-tion. Some of the lines at the top andbottom, the blanking lines, are used toencode other information, such as closed-captioning. With variable top and bottomvertical blanking, the user may add blacklines at the top and bottom of the screen toeliminate edge noise. Hence LCD, DLP,plasma, and other display devices set forcomputer resolutions are able to displayimages true to their original detail.
Extron’s DVS 100 provides scalableoutputs at a variety of computer-video, plasma, or progressive HDTVresolutions. For computer-video, theDVS 100 features these output rates:640 x 480, 800 x 600, 832 x 624,1024 x 768, and 1280 x 1024. For
plasma displays, Extron’s DVS 100outputs plasma rates: 848 x 480, 852 x 480, 1280 x 768, and 1360 x 765.Also available are progressive HDTVoutput rates: 480p, 720p, and 1080p.Scaled RGB output is available simulta-neously on a 15-pin HD connector andsix BNCs.
provides level and peaking to maintain signalintegrity over long cable runs. For video inputand outputs, Extron’s P/2 DA2 MT features15-pin HD female connectors. For audio,Extron’s P/2 DA2 MT features a 3.5 mmfemale jack for input and a 3.5 mm captivescrew connector for balanced or unbalancedoutput. Extron’s P/2 DA2 MT can alsodistribute Mac signals by using an optionalExtron Mac/VGA adapter(s).
audio, Extron’s P/2 DA2 WM features a3.5 mm female input jack and a 3.5 mmcaptive screw connector for balanced orunbalanced output. Optional Macadapters are available. A Euro Channelmodel is only available in white. The P/2 DA2 WM is available withArchitectural Adapter Plates.
List price for the P/2 DA2 WM grey(PN: 60-296-01) is $385.00 (USDollars). Please contact an Extroncustomer support representative forpricing on AAP and Euro channel config-urations, as well as models with black orwhite faceplates.
DVS 100NTSC/PAL/SECAM Video Scaler
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Unique Techniques:
Macy’s Promotes Improved Employee Communications–ElectronicallyEach morning at a Macy’s departmentstore, the store manager would stand onan escalator, five steps from the bottom,as store employees gathered for the earlymorning meeting. The manager wouldthen proceed to tell everyone aboutcurrent sales, announce reminders, andmention any special store hours. Thisscenario was played out every day atnumerous Macy’s East Division storesfrom Maine to Florida.
Unfortunately, some employees did notstart their work shift until later in the day,and some stores are so large that it’sdifficult to gather everyone around oneescalator at a specific time every day.Macy’s realized that a more effective andefficient way of communicating to storeemployees was needed. Hence, an elec-tronic communications system—an elec-tronic bulletin board—has started tobecome an integral part of Macy’s storesin New Jersey, in New York, and downthe coastline.
Macy’s explained the store’s situation andneeds to Ike Eckstein of New York’sVisual Word Systems. After carefulconsideration, Eckstein put together thecomponents for an electronic bulletinboard, a 24 hour, 7 days a week (24/7)system with one information source andmultiple displays for each store.
This electronic system provides Macy’semployees with quick and convenientcommunications 24/7. Self-runningPowerPoint™ slide presentations from anIBM-compatible desktop computer aredisplayed on monitors in locations withhigh employee traffic—such as thelounge, the elevator court, and theemployees’ entrance. The monitors contin-ually display sales updates, announce-
ments, reminders about charity drives,special hours, and training blurbs. Thenumber of monitors located throughout astore varies, depending on the store’s size.For example, Macy’s Herald Square on34th Street in Manhattan has sixmonitors—one by the employees’entrance, one by the employees’ elevator,one by the sign-in clock, and three in theemployees’ lounge.
Macy’s decided to install the electronicbulletin board in selected stores on arolling basis. Macy’s Dave Silvernail,Director of Information Services, states,“As a testbed, we started with one instal-lation about a year ago. Then six monthsago we added ten more installations,mostly in the New York metropolitan area.Now we are adding another three installa-tions.”
COMMUNICATION COMPONENTSEach store’s equipment is located in acentralized, secure location. The system is
comprised of a desktop computer, its localmonitor, an Extron scan converter, a SonyVCR, a Blonder Tongue RF distributionamplifier, and a 9" Sony preview monitor.Macy’s personnel can then create andmake changes to PowerPoint slides fromthe system’s control room on an as-neededbasis.
The PC and its local monitor connect tothe Extron VSC 100 scan converter. TheVSC 100 scan converts the presentationsfrom RGBHV to composite video, so theSony SLV-678HF VCR accepts the input.With the VCR, Macy’s can record theslide presentation or run videotapes. TheVCR modulates the composite videosignal to RF and outputs to the BlonderTongue MVB45 RF DistributionAmplifier. The DA amplifies and distrib-utes the signals to a 9" local Sony KV-9PT60G monitor as well as multiple 27"Sony KV27S40 monitors in Bretford wallor ceiling mounts. The local monitorallows Macy’s to preview the images after
For Macy’s presentations, Extron’s VSC 100 scan converts computer-video to composite video.
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Would you like to see your installation covered here? Do you have a unique method of using Extron products? Tell us about it! Call Rosia Senh at 714.491.1500 and your unique technique may be in the next issue of ExtroNews.
the computer video signals have been scanconverted to composite video signals andthen transformed into RF signals.
Currently, the PowerPoint presentationsrun without audio, but Macy’s can addaudio at any time. The RF DA uses onewire to carry both video and audio signals,so the transmission system is quicker andmore cost-effective to install, especiallysince New York City requires all-plenumcabling. The system uses plenum-ratedcable for all the connections. The cableruns to the multiple monitors may be aslong as 750-1000 feet since some Macy’sstores can have several levels. Forexample, Macy’s Herald Square runscables from the 4th floor down to thestreet floor and up to the 8th and 9thfloors. And some installations may need
cable runs connecting opposite ends of thebuilding.
BUILDING A SYSTEM BASED ON PERFORMANCEAND RELIABILITYA thoughtful application, a well-designedsolution, and well-chosen gear lead toshort-term as well as long-term highperformance and reliability. Ecksteinexplains that he chose the componentsbased on specific factors: “Manufacturer’sname and reliability, serviceability, price,and performance. There have been noproblems with these systems—they’vebeen consistent—so we haven’t made anymajor changes from the initial systemdesign.”
Macy’s electronic bulletin board is anelegant way to incorporate a uni-direc-
tional communications system into apredetermined presentation environment.The multiple-display communicationssystem with a central information sourcestreamlines and keeps corporate commu-nications up-to-date. Currently Macy’sonly displays PowerPoint slides, but theyare exploring other options as well, suchas a connection to its own intranet site ordisplaying videotapes. The electronicbulletin board can be expanded by addingadditional monitors, and the self-runningslide presentations can be updated quicklyand easily.
For more information, please contact Ike Eckstein, Visual Word Systems, at212.661.3366.
Monitors in action next to Macy’s vault (above),
and employees’ lounge (right).
EQUIPMENT LIST FOR A SYSTEM1 IBM-compatible desktop computer and
monitor1 Extron VSC 100 scan converter1 Sony SLV-678HF VCR1 Blonder Tongue MVB45 RF Distribution
Amplifier1 Sony 9-in. KV-9PT60G monitorMultiple 27-in. Sony KV27S40 monitorsMultiple Bretford wall and ceiling mounts
RS-232 Control:Using HyperTerminalby Roger McCarten,Product Manager
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When troubleshooting an RS-232 controlledAV system, the main problem is usuallydetermining what is at fault. Is the problemwith the RS-232 controlled device(s), or thecommands given, or with RS-232 wiring?One way to make troubleshooting easier is touse HyperTerminal, a terminal programfound on most PCs (HyperTerminal comes aspart of Windows NT ® and Windows® 95/98).HyperTerminal can be used to test RS-232commands and to directly test any RS-232controlled equipment, thereby allowingproblems to be isolated.
GETTING STARTEDOn Windows 95 and Windows NT,HyperTerminal can be started by going to theStart button (Figure 1) and selectingPrograms, then selecting Accessories, thenHyperTerminal. On Windows 98,HyperTerminal can be found underCommunications, which is under theAccessories menu.
When HyperTerminal is first started, a setupbox will come up (Figure 2). Type in a namethat describes the connection you want tomake; any name will do. Pick an icon; then
click on OK. This will take you to a secondSet Up box. This is where the communica-tions port can be selected. Always doublecheck that your cable is connected to thecorrect port. Select the communications portyou want to use, and click on OK.
This will bring up the COM # Propertiesdialogue box (Figure 3). Configure yoursettings as needed. Extron products defaultto: 9600 baud rate, 8 data bits, parity = none,stop bit = 1, and flow control = none. Clickon OK, and the connection will be made.
For ease of use, HyperTerminal should be setup so the characters you type will be echoedon the screen—otherwise the characters you
type won’t appear as you type them. To setthis up, first select Properties, which is underthe File menu. This will bring up theConnection Name properties box. Select theSettings tab and then select the ASCIISetup... button. This will bring up the ASCIISetup dialog box (Figure 4). Check the boxto Echo typed characters locally (shownchecked). Then click on OK twice, and theconnection will be set up to display the textthat is typed. Test the connection by typing aSimple Instruction Set (SIS™) command such
FIGURE 1.STARTING HYPERTERMINAL
IN WINDOWS 95/NT
FIGURE 2.NAMING THE CONNECTION
FIGURE 3.PORT SETTINGS
FIGURE 4.ASCII SET UP
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of vertical filtering to reduce flicker. Byapplying these user-selectable filters, Extron’sDDS 100 produces sharp, stable pictures.When minute details of CAD drawings orother fine images need to be pointed out,Extron’s DDS 100 zooms in to produce clearclose-ups. Its variable zoom control usesincreased pixel clocking for smooth, cleanzoom-ins and -outs. For panning across animage, horizontal and vertical centering/pancontrols shift the physical position of adisplayed image and keep this image centeredfor any panning motions.
MEMORY FEATURESExtron’s DDS 100 memory holds a totalof 130 locations that store scan rates and
associated size, zoom, pan, centering,and filter settings for up to 130 sourcesignals. 30 locations are user presets thatcan be changed or erased. The remaining100 locations are factory-loaded,permanent presets that cannot be changedor erased.
When a video input is connected, Extron’sDDS 100 automatically scans user presetsand then factory presets, looking for amatch between the video input’s horizontaland vertical scan rates and a preset memory.If a match is found, the stored settingsbecome active. If no match is found, a newuser preset is automatically created andsaved. If user preset memory is full, the
new user preset overwrites the oldest userpreset.
CONTROLFor easy and quick control, Extron’s DDS 100 features RS-232 and front panelcontrol. RS-232 control is available viathird-party control, Extron’s Windows®-based control program, or SimpleInstruction Set (SIS™). Front panel controlis available via menu buttons and the LCDpanel, which displays status changes andprovides access to multi-level menus forany adjustments.
as 1! (to select audio and video on input#1). On a matrix, try typing 2*2 to routeinput 2 to output 2. Verify theswitch/connection has been made.
Note: The characters will be sent out as youtype them. It is not necessary to hit Returnto send the characters.
FIGURE 5.CONNECTION PROPERTIES
To start up a communication setting thatyou already created, look on the menu thatcomes up when the HyperTerminal menu isselected. The name of the file you createdshould appear on this menu. Select this fileinstead of the HyperTerminal program topull up your saved settings.
HYPERTERMINAL TIPS One feature of HyperTerminal that may beof particular value is the ability to sendinvisible codes such as the arrow, functionand control keys. To do this go to the Filemenu (in HyperTerminal), and selectProperties. This will bring up a dialog box.Select the Settings tab (Figure 5). If youselect the Terminal Keys setting, thefunction, arrow and control keys will sendout their RS-232 character codes throughthe RS-232 port. If the Windows Keysetting is selected, the keys will perform thenormal Windows functions. Remember thatwhen you are in this mode (terminal keys),the arrow keys and most other functionkeys will send a byte (or multiple bytes) outthe comm port instead of doing theWindows navigation functions on the screenas you would expect.
Another useful HyperTerminal feature is theability to send out any of the 256 possibleRS-232 (ASCII) characters by using thenumeric keypad. Make sure the “NumLock” key is pressed. To do this, hold downthe ALT key and enter the desired numbers.For instance, hold down the ALT key andenter the 1, 2, or 3 numbers needed (i.e.: 0to 255), and then release the ALT key tosend the single ASCII character.
Note: When dealing with Hex code theprocedure varies. For example Hex 80 can'tbe sent by simply entering 80 on the numerickeyboard. If you enter 80 (with ALT) on thekeypad, you'll send a “P” (which is Hex 50).Hex 80 is actually Decimal 128, and 128should have been entered.
Numerical characters generated with theALT key need to be specified in decimalvalues 0 through 255. For these complexstrings, it would be a good idea to generateyour keyboard actions on paper beforetyping them. Also keep in mind manydevices will timeout and throw away part ofyour command string if you take too long toenter a command.
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ExtroNews publishes information about newproducts that are relative to the Extron productline in the New News section. If you would like
a new product to be reviewed for New News,please send a press release, literature, contact
name and a four color slide or photo to:
Pat Charlton, New NewsExtron Electronics1230 South Lewis StreetAnaheim, CA 92805Phone: (714) 491-1500 ext. [email protected]
S120
EEPPSSOONN AAMMEERRIICCAA,, IINNCC..
Epson has recently introduced thePowerLite 8000i LCD projector. ThePowerLite 8000i projects 2000 ANSIlumens brightness output and weighs 17.4pounds. It offers a horizontal scan rangefrom 15.65 to 93.75 kHz, a vertical scanrange from 50 to 96 Hz and a native reso-lution of 1024 x 768. It features Epson’spatented SizeWise™ resizing technologyallowing for compatibility up to UXGA1600 x 1200 resolution. The PowerLite8000i offers two computer inputs(RGBHV/BNC and 15-pin HD) and twosimultaneous video sources: S-video (4-pinDIN) and composite video (BNC). Themanufacturer’s suggested retail price is$15,999.
Recommended Extron accessories: For VGA, use the P/2 DA2 MT, P/2 DA2WM, SW2 VGA DA2 A/AF or other VGAswitchers and VGA plenum and non-plenum cables. For Mac, use the Mac DA 2Plus and our Mac/VGA adapters. ForRGBHV systems, use the RGB 130xi, RGB 150xi or Architectural interfaces. Toget video into the VGA switcher, use theDVS 100. For complete system control,use the System 5cr.
Mitsubishi has recently introduced theS120 LCD projector. The S120 offers ahorizontal scanning range from 15 to 82 kHz, a vertical scanning range from 50to 85 Hz and a native resolution of 800 x 600.It is capable of dual set-up compression todisplay a maximum resolution of 1280 x 1024 SXGA. The projector inputsare: RGB/component video (15-pin HD),composite video (RCA) and S-video (4-pinDIN). It weighs approximately 10 poundsand offers a brightness output of 800 ANSIlumens. It offers a built-in PCMCIA cardslot allowing for computer-free presenta-tions and low-cost field force automation.The suggested list price is $4,995.
Recommended Extron accessories:For VGA, use the P/2 DA2 MT, P/2 DA2 Plus, SW2 VGA DA2 A/AF orother VGA switchers and VGA extensioncables. For Mac, use the Mac DA2 Plusand our Mac/VGA adapters.
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Hughes/JVC has recently introduced theG1500 D-ILA™ projector. The G1500offers a horizontal scan range from 15 to 82 kHz, a vertical scan range from 50 to150 Hz, and a native resolution of 1365 x 1024. It has a brightness output of1,500 ANSI lumens and weighs 37pounds. It displays data as well as 16:9High Definition Television (HDTV)signals in 480i, 480p, 720p or 1080iformats. The projector inputs are:RGBHV/BNC, 15-pin HD, S-video (4-pinDIN), composite video (BNC) andcomponent video (BNC). The suggestedlist price is $18,995 including lens.
Recommended Extron accessories:For VGA, use the P/2 DA2 MT, P/2 DA2 WM, SW2 VGA DA2 A/AF orother VGA switchers and VGA plenumand non-plenum cables. For Mac, use theMac DA 2 Plus and our Mac/VGAadapters. For RGBHV systems, use theRGB 130xi, RGB 150xi or Architecturalinterfaces. To get video into the VGAswitcher, use the DVS 100. For completesystem control, use the System 5cr.
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PLUS U2-1080 NOTEVISION7AF3.0HDS
PPRRIINNCCEETTOONN GGRRAAPPHHIICC SSYYSSTTEEMMSS
Princeton has recently announced their newdirect view 30-inch viewable HDTVmonitor, the AF3.0HDS. The AF3.0HDSsupports all ATSC HDTV formats, video andVGA, SVGA and XGA resolutions fromcomputer sources. It is the first direct view16:9 aspect ratio monitor to display allHDTV formats while maintaining compati-bility with today’s current NTSC signals. Ithas a horizontal scanning range from 30 to 50 kHz, a vertical scanning range from50 to 90 Hz and a maximum resolution of 800 x 768 pixels. The AF3.0HDS includesmultiple inputs for digital, analog andHDTV. The inputs connectors are: YPbPr(RGBHV/BNC), VGA (15-pin HD), S-video(4-pin DIN) and composite video (RCA).The S-video and composite video signals areprocessed with the AF3.0HDS’s built-in linedoubler for enhanced resolution. It also hasan active RS-232C serial communicationsport. The suggested list price is $4,400.
Recommended Extron accessories: To convert video, use the DVS 100. Toconvert component HDTV video to RGB,use the CVC 100. To convert high resolutioncomputer rates that are above 50 kHz, usethe DDS 100.
Sharp has recently introduced the ultra-portable Notevision7 (XG-NV7XU)DLP™ projector. The Notevision7 is oneof the slimmest digital projectors on themarket today, just 2.3 inches thin andweighing under 6 pounds. It has a hori-zontal scan range from 15 to 126 kHz, avertical scan range from 43 to 200 Hz anda native resolution of 1024 x 768. It offersa brightness output of 800 ANSI lumens.The projector inputs are: 15-pin HD, 20-pin MDR (PanelLink™ DFP), compositevideo (RCA), S-video (4-pin DIN) andcomponent video (15-pin HD). Thesuggested list price is $8,995.
Recommended Extron accessories:For VGA, use the P/2 DA2 MT, P/2 DA2Plus, SW2 VGA DA2 A/AF or otherVGA switchers and VGA extensioncables. For Mac, use the Mac DA2 Plusand our Mac/VGA adapters. To convertvideo, use the DVS 100. To convertcomponent HDTV video to RGB, use theCVC 100.
Plus Corporation has recently debut thePLUS® U2-1080 XGA DLP™ projector.The PLUS® U2-1080 is compatible withSXGA (compression), XGA (True),SVGA/VGA (Expansion/True) andMacintosh. It weighs 5.7 pounds, is 2.28"high and delivers 800 ANSI lumens ofbrightness. It has a horizontal scan rangefrom 15 to 85 kHz, a vertical scan rangefrom 50 to 85 Hz and a native resolution of 1024 x 768. The projector inputs are: RGB(15-pin HD), composite video (RCA) andS-video (4-pin DIN). The suggested listprice is $8,995.
Recommended Extron accessories:For VGA, use the P/2 DA2 MT, P/2 DA2Plus, SW2 VGA DA2 A or other VGAswitchers and VGA extension cables. ForMac, use the Mac DA2 Plus and ourMac/VGA adapters.
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FIGURE 2: 4:2:2 SAMPLING STRUCTURE
Digital Video–Continued from page 5
SpecialSync
Codes
1
Y
Cr(R-Y)
Cb(B-Y)
720
10 Bits Wide
Available forOther Data
Blanking
SAMPLES FREQUENCY
4 13.5 MHz
2 6.75 MHz
2 6.75 MHz
Total 27.0 MHz
minimum sample rate of 12 MHz(Nyquist) and supports data transfersbetween NTSC and PAL. Remember thatno subcarrier frequency exists incomponent video, so there is no issuewith the sampling frequency relationshipand a subcarrier. Both standards have720 active video samples per line andonly the number of lines in each framechanges (485 active for NTSC and 576active for PAL). This makes videotransfers much simpler.
The chroma channels (Cr, Cb) samplerate is conveniently one half the videosample rate, or 6.75 MHz. So, one halfas many chroma difference samples aretaken (360) as compared to the Ychannel. This provides acceptable resultsbecause the chroma bandwidth is lower.All sampling is locked to the horizontalscan time such that each sample is in apredictable location, thus creating anorthogonal sampling methodology. SeeFigure 1). To maintain a samplingreference, one sample of Y, Cr, and Cb islocked to the 50% point of the fallingedge of the analog sync pulse. Theserelationships explain the terminology“4:2:2” for the sampling of Y, Cr, andCb. In simple terms, it means we aretaking 4 samples of Y and 2 samples ofCr and 2 samples of Cb during a hori-zontal line scan time. Add these samplesrates together… 13.5 MHz plus 6.75MHz plus 6.75 MHz and you get 27MHz, which is the master clockingfrequency for component digital. SeeFigure 2.
OTHER COOL STUFFOne thing that is a constant in video,whether analog or digital, is the synctiming. Since component digital video isrepresented by a series of binarynumbers, a code may be assigned for thebeginning of blanking (EAV—end ofactive video) and another for the end ofblanking (SAV—start of active video)without wasting code space in the repli-cation of a repetitive event. The
receiving system can reconstruct theblanking and sync by decoding those twounique codes. In this way, nearly the entirevideo blanking time interval can be used totransmit a host of other digital information,including digital audio data, line numbering,error checking data, ancillary data, timecode, and so on.
A PARALLEL UNIVERSEEarly on, the component digital data streamwas 8 bits wide (0 to 255 levels).Eventually, the data stream widened to 10bits (0 to 1024 levels). The two extra bitssignificantly improved signal-to-noise andreduced rounding errors during datatransfers. So, the data stream is moving 10-bit wide data words at 27 MHz speed.For those who interface component digitalsystems over relatively short distances(short means 150 feet or less), connectingthese systems with the prescribed 25-pinDB style connector is typical. Running tendifferential pair data lines along withancillary differential lines in a 25-conductorcable requires some attention to cable
construction detail. Those of you with afondness for assembling 15-pin HD VGAconnectors will love this interface. Dataand/or clock skew occurring over non-matched conductors will corrupt transmis-sion. Within the broadcast production plant,the amount of real estate required for 25-pinconnectors and their connections becomesan issue… particularly for routingequipment. Because of cabling and connec-tors, most of us will not work withcomponent digital in the parallel connectionscheme. Nor will we desire to. The closestwe usually get is running our printer cableto our computer and that’s limited to tenfeet maximum with predictable results.
ENTER SDIThe Serial Digital Interface simplifies theconnection and routing of componentdigital signals to one coaxial cable. Mostlikely, you have already encountered thisconnection. Like composite NTSC, it canbe routed with one BNC cable or opticalfiber from place to place, but that’s wherethe similarity ends. This ability comes at the
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PARALLEL4:2:2 DIGITALCOMPONENT
VIDEO
PARALLEL4:2:2 DIGITALCOMPONENT
VIDEO
27 MHzCLOCK
27 MHzCLOCK
10 10SHIFT
REGISTERSCRAMBLER DESCRAMBLER
75-OHMCOAX
270 MHzCLOCK
SHIFTREGISTER
SAV, EAVDETECT
270 MHzPLL
DIVIDEBY 10
10XPLL
FIGURE 3. 4:2:2 SERIAL DIGITAL INTERFACE
cost of higher data rates…specifically 10times! A serializer system is used to takeeach incoming parallel data “byte” and lineup each bit one after the other to create afully serial data stream that can flow on onecable. To arrive at the resulting speed ofthe data stream requires some complexmath…10 bits times 27 MHz equals 270Megabits per second! The signal is unbal-anced and sourced/terminated in 75 ohmsjust like regular video signals. Signal levelis specified to be 0.8 volts peak-to-peak, +/- 10%. The serial digital interface is fullydescribed in SMPTE 259M.
The high data rate of serial digital requirescareful attention to cabling and equaliza-tion. No clock signal is transmitted withthe data. The data coding (scrambler)arrangement is such that enough data transi-tions occur to allow full recovery of thedata clock from the data itself. On thereceiver end of a SDI transmission is aphase-locked loop system that locks ontothe 270 Mbps signal, derives the clock, anddivides the rate by 10 so as to recreate theoriginal 27 MHz clock. The phase lock isobtained by recognizing the EAV and SAVsequences, which correspond to sync in thedata stream. The data is decoded, or
descrambled, and then deserialized via ashift register. See Figure 3.
SDI AND SHRIn 1990 I designed the specification for the“perfect” coax cable for use in computerinterfacing applications. That spec turnsout to be our SHR cable with –3dB perfor-mance at 200 MHz for 100 feet in an RG-6size. What does this have to do with SDI?Back then, this cable required fabricationtechnology that was very expensive. It wasabout three to four years later before itbecame cost-feasible. Meanwhile in ‘93,Belden released their 1694A cable to themarket to support SDI. Up until that time,everyone used Belden 8281 for long run,low loss situations. Now, with growingpopularity of SDI in video productionsystems, a lower loss cable is necessary.Amazingly, the 1694A and the Extron SHRcable specs are nearly identical.
SHR cable can be used to connectequipment having the SDI feature. Now,here’s where the concept of routing SDI andstandard analog video signals depart.Although the SHR cable spec highlights a200 MHz attenuation point, that does NOTmean a cable running longer than 100 feet
will not be useful. The 200 MHz marker isuseful in spec’ing cable. Using SDI, we aredealing with a digital square wave signal,not an analog signal with amplitudesensitive issues. As long as the bit transi-tions can be detected reliably on a SDItransmission, the signal may be run longdistances (hundreds of feet). We talkabout the -3dB point on analog signalsbecause it relates directly to image quality.For SDI, all we need do is recover thedigital numbers that represent the signalvalues. For quality transmission andrecovery of data on SDI, you must payattention to proper routing and terminationtechniques.
WORDS TO THE WISELike analog signals, SDI data can becorrupted with improper termination orrouting that results in cable reflections.Maintaining a clean distribution path withSDI means that decoding will largely be afunction of the decoder sensitivity on thereceiving end. Assuming that bit transitionsare recognizable, the decoder will only belimited by its peak-to-peak sensitivity. Besure to apply all the analog signal tech-niques you have learned to realize the mostfrom a digital component application.
For past articles, go to http://www.extron.com/news/extronews.asp
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JEFF GIBSONJeff Gibson has been promotedfrom National Sales Managerto Director of Sales. Jeff beganhis career at Extron over fouryears ago and has made signifi-cant contributions to Extron’ssales team. As Director, Jeff willoversee all domestic and inter-national sales and technicalsupport in Extron’s USA,Europe, and Asia offices.Working from our Anaheim,CA, headquarters, his responsi-bilities will also includedirection of supportive depart-ments including DealerTraining, Internal Training,Marketing, and Trade Shows.
MANDI SPEERMandi Speer has beenpromoted to Sales Manager ofDeveloping Technology. Mandihas been with the company forover three years and has beenan invaluable asset to Extron’ssales team as National SalesManager. In her new position,Mandi will work with manufac-turers in the industry toprovide them with specializedsupport and training. Mandiwill serve as the primarycontact for manufacturers andsupport all new technologywith any new products theymay need in the future.
NICOLETTECOMMISSARISExtron Europe’s NicoletteCommissaris has beenpromoted to Regional SalesManager. Nicolette willmanage Extron’s sales andtechnical activities in SouthernEurope and provide on-siteproduct demonstrations andtraining. Nicolette beganworking at Extron in 1995 asMarketing Coordinator.
Extron’s Internal Promotions
CHRIS ELMOREChris Elmore, CTS, has beenpromoted to Product Manager.In his new position, Chris willwork on product design anddevelopment. Previously hewas an Applications Engineerfor the Northeast team. Chrishas also taught at CEDIARegional Seminars, ExtronSchool, and Extron School Onthe Road.
Andrew EdwardsPresident, Extron Electronics
As you know, Infocomm isnot only a place whereExtron announces new
products, conducts training, and meets with dealersand consultants from all corners of the world; it isalso where we take the opportunity to thank you forsupporting us throughout the year. The Extron partyreflects the level of appreciation we have for ourvalued customers, where you are the guest of honor.
The original Extron Party began in 1991, ironically,in this year’s location of Orlando, Florida. Extroninvited over 600 guests to join us on a 45-minute busride out to a plantation house where the fun began.Since then, because of your efforts, Extron has grownto the point where we had the privilege of greetingover 6000 guests at our party this past June! Weexpect even more next year when Infocomm comesto our backyard in Anaheim, California.
Without you, there would be no party. So, I wantedto take a moment to personally thank you for yourvalued support. I realize that it is because of you thatExtron products are installed in so many systems. Itis your hard work, long hours, and dedication thatmakes the difference. We know that as the represen-tatives of Extron products, you are on the front line.As manufacturers, we have it easy compared to you,and appreciate your loyalty to Extron.
So, thank you for placing your trust in Extron. It isour goal to continually offer you quality service,support, and solutions at the same high standards youhave always expected of Extron. Next year atInfocomm, stop by our booth and say hello. We lookforward to seeing each and everyone of you atInfocomm 2000!
Thank You forSupportingExtron
EXTRON ELECTRONICS/RGB SYSTEMS, INC.1230 South Lewis Street, Anaheim, CA 92805800.633.9876 714.491.1500 FAX 714.491.1517U.S.A.
For complete details, visit Extron’s website athttp://www.extron.com/product/product.asp?=dvs100
DVS 100Extron’s DVS 100 Digital Video Scaler scales up NTSC/PAL/SECAMvideo signals to match native resolutions of digital display devices such asLCD, DLP, and Plasma displays. To optimize image quality on digitaldisplay devices as well as maintain maximum image brightness anddetail, lower-resolution NTSC/PAL/SECAM video resolutions need tobe scaled up to RGB resolutions that match the “sweet spot” or nativeresolution of digital display devices. The DVS 100 accepts compositevideo, S-video, and component video inputs and offers a wide variety ofRGB resolution output rates. To eliminate edge noise, the DVS 100 features variable top and bottom vertical blanking. Images scaled by theDVS 100 are sharp and brilliant, with enhanced depth, filling the LCD,DLP, or Plasma screen.
HDTV & PLASMA OUTPUT RATESExtron’s DVS 100 provides output rates to match a wide variety of computer-video, progressive HDTV, and Plasma resolutions. Plasmarates match native resolutions and sync timings of Plasma displays fromFujitsu, NEC, Pioneer, and others. Progressive HDTV rates: 480p, 720p,and 1080p are also available.
VERTICAL BLANKINGUnique to Extron, the DVS 100 offers variable top and bottom verticalblanking. During scaling, captioning and tapehead switching in thevideo’s blanking area shows up as picture noise. Using Extron’s exclusivevariable blanking, a user may add black lines at the top and bottom ofthe screen to eliminate edge noise.
OUTPUT RATESThe scaled RGB output is available simultaneously on a 15-pin HD con-nector and six BNCs. Extron’s DVS 100 offers scalable outputs at theserates: 640 x 480, 480p, 800 x 600, 832 x 624, 848 x 480, 852 x 480,720p, 1024 x 768, 1080p, 1280 x 1024, 1280 x 768, and 1360 x 765.
Extron School and Extron School On the Road Schedules 1999Oct. 11-12 ..........................................Extron School International ..................................The NetherlandsOct. 25-26 ..........................................Extron School On the Road ............................................Atlanta, GAOct. 27-28 ..........................................Extron School On the Road ............................................Atlanta, GANov. 18-19..........................................Extron School Sales Class ..............................................Anaheim, CADec. 2-3 ..............................................Extron School Technical Class ......................................Anaheim, CADec. 6-7 ..............................................Extron School On the Road ........................................New York, NYDec. 8-9 ..............................................Extron School On the Road ........................................New York, NY
EXTRON ELECTRONICS/RGB SYSTEMS, INC.1230 South Lewis Street, Anaheim, CA 92805800.633.9876 714.491.1500 FAX 714.491.1517U.S.A.
