Specifications

8
Component Video Output (with Composite and Y/C functions)
Io Express features a group of 3 BNC connectors for output of component, composite and
Y/C functions. The signals are labelled on the BNC connectors on the rear panel of Io Express.
A Note About YPbPr—Component Video, or YPbPr, has been given several names over time.
YUV, Y/R-Y/B-Y, and YCbCr, are just some examples. Although these various formats have
some differences in levels, they are all basically the same. Io Express uses the modern
YPbPr terminology exclusively. Io Express supports three different types of YPbPr:
SMPTE/EBU N10, Betacam (NTSC), and Betacam (NTSC Japan). These three formats differ
in level only and are configured in the Mac System via the Io Express Control Panel.
Reference Video and LTC Input
Two BNC connectors on Io Express provide reference Input and Output. The Reference Video
input can also be used for LTC input. The selection of Reference (sync) or LTC is set using the
Io Express Control Panel.
In Video Pass-through mode, these connectors are effectively loop-through. Supplying
reference signal to the Reference input allows you to synchronize Io Express outputs to your
house analog reference video signal (or black burst). If you have a sync generator or central
piece of video equipment to use for synchronizing other video equipment in your studio, then
connect its analog composite output here. When Io Express outputs video, it uses this
reference signal for locking. When connecting a reference video source, the locking signal
should be the same format as the Primary format selected in the Io Express Control Panel. It is
possible in some circumstances to use an alternate format video signal as long as the basic
frame rate is compatible.
In This Manual
Chapter 1 is the introduction you’re reading, listing features, box contents, and system
requirements.
Chapter 2 provides complete instructions for installing and configuring the AJA Io Express.
The user is guided through unpacking, cabling the Io Express, installing Io Express Mac or
Windows Software From CD, then getting it up and running. Important configuration
information is also provided on video settings and use of genlock/external reference.
Chapter 3 discusses operational aspects of Io Express when used with the AJA Control Panel.
Chapter 4 discusses troubleshooting problems with your system and what to do when there’s
a problem you can’t solve.
Appendix A presents a list of technical specifications for the product.
Appendix B contains important safety and compliance information for Io Express operation.
The remainder of the manual consists of an index section to help you rapidly find topics in the
manual.