Vertigo XG Advanced HD/SD Graphics Processor Configuration Guide M848-9302-450 w w w . m i r a n d a .
Vertigo Suite v4.
Copyright Notice © 2009 Miranda Technologies Inc. All rights reserved. Third Party Trademarks All other brand names, product names or trademarks belong to their respective holders. Usage Agreement Please read the following terms and conditions carefully. By using the Vertigo XG Configuration Guide, you agree to the following terms and conditions: Miranda Technologies Inc.
Accessing the most recent updates for this guide The information, illustrations, and screen shots contained in this guide reflect the feature set and functionality of the Vertigo XG that were released for version 4.5 of the Vertigo Suite. Since Miranda is always improving the performance and enhancing the features of its products, the printing schedule for this guide does not always keep pace with the software release schedule. As such, if you have a software version newer than 4.
ii Vertigo XG Configuration Guide
TABLE OF CONTENTS Introduction .......................................................................................................................... 1-1 Vertigo XG’s standard and optional features ..................................................................................... 1-2 Vertigo XG system integration ........................................................................................................... 1-4 Vertigo XG downstream and simulcast branding models ..........................
Table of Contents Dashboard - Vertigo XG’s Local Configuration Software ................................................ 5-1 About the Dashboard..........................................................................................................................5-3 Starting Dashboard.............................................................................................................................5-4 An overview of the Dashboard’s interface components ..........................................
1 INTRODUCTION The Vertigo XG is Miranda’s full-featured HD/SD graphics processor providing high performance single or dual channel graphics rendering and video playback performance. The Vertigo XG is ideal for a wide range of advanced real-time broadcast applications, like HD/SD dual-casting with independent graphics for HD and SD, and single channel applications demanding sophisticated, multi-channel branding and promotional graphics.
Introduction Vertigo XG’s standard and optional features The Vertigo XG is available in two (2) standard models: VX-Vertigo-XG21-e Vertigo XG single channel graphics engine (2 inputs, 1 output) used for downstream branding (see page 1-5). VX-Vertigo-XG22-e Vertigo XG dual channel graphics engine (2 inputs, 2 outputs) used for downstream simulcast branding (see page 1-5).
Introduction The following options are available to both models of the Vertigo XG: VX-RS422-2-e 2 port RS-422 card The RS-422 card provides an interface upon which the Vertigo XG can communicate with automation systems. See “RS-422 Connectors” on page 2-6 for more information. VX-Audio-e Audio processor The Audio option allows you play out audio clips and voice-over tracks. See “Audio input/output channels” on page 2-11 for more information.
Introduction Vertigo XG system integration Vertigo XG devices can be fully integrated with other system components to provide a complete branding and playout solution. Figure 1-1 demonstrates that in a downstream branding model, video and audio content can be brought into the Vertigo XG from a variety of sources, while the graphics content is created and managed using Miranda’s Vertigo Suite and the Xmedia Server.
Introduction Vertigo XG downstream and simulcast branding models The Vertigo XG device can be used for single or dual channel downstream branding, which allows for graphics inserts, downstream of video server or master control. Figure 1-2 demonstrates a typical dual channel downstream branding setup, in which graphics insertion occurs downstream of master control.
Introduction Figure 1-4 demonstrates that the Vertigo XG supports the “pairing” of dual rendering engines for simulcast applications. Using a signal control point to drive an HD and an SD stream with independent graphics and branding, the Vertigo XG can playout graphics that are optimized for HD and SD on each output channel. Branded HD Program HD Input HD Program SD Input SD Program Down Converter Branded Down-converted SD Program Figure 1-4.
Introduction Vertigo XG’s licensing requirements For the Vertigo XG device to operate in its full capacity, the following application licenses must be installed and activated locally on the Vertigo XG’s embedded Xmedia Server: XGHD 4.5 The Vertigo XG requires an HD application license to output at HD resolutions. An HD application license allows the Vertigo XG to also output at SD resolutions. XPLAY 4.5 The Vertigo XG uses a local copy of the Vertigo Suite’s Xplay application as a media player.
Introduction Application licensing errors For the convenience of on-air devices, the Vertigo XG will not lose any functionality if it is missing one or more application licenses. When the Vertigo XG detects that a user is trying to use a feature that is not licensed (i.e. running a Vertigo XG without a proper application license or playing a clip without a clip license), an error message window appears informing you that the device is running without a valid license (figure 1-6). Figure 1-6.
Introduction File formats supported by the Vertigo XG The Vertigo XG is a fully software based clip/image/media reader, which allows for a significant amount of flexibility with regards to media formats.
Introduction Clip file formats The Vertigo XG’s long-form clip playback capability is suitable for program content, commercials, and promotional interstitial. The following identifies the Vertigo XG’s currently recommended and supported clip formats.
Introduction Supported clip formats: • MPEG (I-Frame) • Extension: (.mpg, .mpeg) • Codec: MPEG2 (I-Frame) • Max. Bit Rate: 50 Mbps • Audio Codec: MPEG Audio Layer 2/Layer 3/AAC (16bit, 48Khz) • Audio Tracks: Single • Audio Channels: Stereo • MXF Wrapped MPEG (I-Frame) • Extension: (.mxf) • Codec: MPEG2 (I-Frame) (SD D10/IMX) • Max.
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2 OVERVIEW OF THE VERTIGO XG’S HARDWARE Physically, the Vertigo XG is a 3RU rackmount rendering platform that incorporates redundant fans, three power supplies, and 1 TB RAID1-enabled storage (optional 2 TB RAID10 expansion). The Vertigo XG features easy frontal access to the SCSI drives, two UBS ports and a control panel featuring LEDs and buttons for system monitoring and operation (see page 2-2 for more details).
Overview of the Vertigo XG’s Hardware The Vertigo XG’s front panel components The Vertigo XG’s front panel features convenient access to the RAID10 hard drives, two USB ports, a CD/DVD ROM drive, and a control panel containing six LEDs and three buttons for system monitoring and operation. The table following the figure 2-1 describes the function of each LED and button. POWER CD/DVD ROM Drive RAID 10 Hard Drives Floppy Drive USB 2.0 Connectors (2) Figure 2-1.
Overview of the Vertigo XG’s Hardware LAN1 A flashing green LAN1 LED indicates network activity on LAN2. HDD ACTIVITY This flashing amber LED indicates IDE channel activity. POWER INDICATOR (LED) Indicates that power is being supplied to the system’s power supply units. This green LED should normally be illuminated when the system is in operation. MUTE (ALARM RESET) Press the Mute button to silence the buzzer alarm, which is activated by a signal received from the SCSI drive backplane.
Overview of the Vertigo XG’s Hardware The Vertigo XG’s rear panel components The Vertigo XG’s rear panel features convenient access to the video card’s I/O connector, which provides 4 SD/HD SDI video outputs, a reference signal input, and AES audio input/output. The rear panel also provides access to the graphics card connector, as well as various I/O ports (RS-422, USB, Ethernet...etc.).
Overview of the Vertigo XG’s Hardware USB 2.0 Connectors The four (4) USB 2.0 connectors on the rear panel allow you to connect peripheral devices (e.g. keyboard, mouse, flash drive...etc) to the Vertigo XG. Serial RS-232 Port The two (2) RS-232 connectors provide two control ports upon which the automation system’s serial cables are connected. It is through this connection that the automation system communicates and controls the Vertigo XG using automation protocol commands.
Overview of the Vertigo XG’s Hardware Graphics Card’s DVI Connectors The graphics card’s DVI connectors allow you to connect the Vertigo XG device to DVI monitor. The monitor is only required during the device’s initial configuration, so as to display Vertigo XG’s desktop applications, including XG Dashboard. Note that although there are two (2) DVI connectors, the Vertigo XG can display to only one monitor. Therefore, it does matter which of the two connectors the monitor’s cable is connected to.
Overview of the Vertigo XG’s Hardware SDI Video Card I/O Connector A breakout cable is used to connect the Video Card I/O connectors to the SDI video input/output cables and the reference I/O. See “Video input/output channels” on page 2-10 for more information about the Vertigo XG’s video input/output channel connections.
Overview of the Vertigo XG’s Hardware GPI Card Connector Vertigo XG hardware option: Vx-GPI-8-e The GPI card allows for control of the Vertigo XG via GPI triggers. The card provides for up to 8 optically isolated GPI inputs and 8 reed relay GPI outputs. Port A is an 8 bit input port connected to optically isolated inputs sensors. Each sensor can be used to interface a voltage and then sense whether the voltage is on or off. The reed relays are well suited for low current applications.
Overview of the Vertigo XG’s Hardware Vertigo XG signal path and rendering processes The Vertigo XG HD/SD graphics processor block diagram (figure 2-3) demonstrates that the audio and video signals are brought into the Vertigo XG hardware, exposed to various processing options, and then rendered for output. To help you make more informed configuration decisions, the following sections describe the signal path and processing options that performed by the Vertigo XG hardware and software drivers.
Overview of the Vertigo XG’s Hardware Video input/output channels Depending on the model, Vertigo XG devices offer two (2) video SD/HD input channels with one (1) or two (2) video SD/HD output channels. Figure 2-4 and the following table identifies and describes the Vertigo XG video card’s input and output connections, including the hardware bypass.
Overview of the Vertigo XG’s Hardware Audio input/output channels The Vertigo XG supports both embedded and discrete audio channels. Each video input/output can contain up to 8 stereo pairs (16 channels) of embedded audio. The number of discrete audio input/output channels depends on the number of physical inputs available. For each physical input available there will be a discrete audio breakout cable (see figure 2-5). Each discrete audio breakout cable contains 4 BNC inputs and 8 BNC outputs.
Overview of the Vertigo XG’s Hardware Ancillary data processing The Vertigo XG reserves some hardware functionality for the extraction, processing, and insertion of ancillary data into the output video signal, for example, Vertical Ancillary (VAnc) data and Vertical Blanking Interval (VBI) data. The ancillary data space can be used as a transport mechanism for data to be extracted by the Vertigo XG for triggering keyers, squeezes (DVEs) or other graphics events.
Overview of the Vertigo XG’s Hardware Clip Player and media storage The Vertigo XG offers a video/audio clip player option (VX-ClipPlayer) that can output clips simultaneously. It is ideal for the playout of full screen or partial screen clips, and the player supports MPEG2 (I frame & Long GOP), MPEG-4 / H.264, DV25, DV50, DV100, IMX30, IMX40, IMX50, MXF, GFX and AVI formats.
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3 VERTIGO XG’S DESKTOP APPLICATIONS & TOOLS Connecting a VGA monitor, keyboard and mouse to the Vertigo XG device’s rear panel connectors (see page 2-4) allows you to view and interact with the Vertigo XG’s desktop and software applications. Upon startup, the Vertigo XG automatically opens its desktop applications, which are used for configuring and controlling the Vertigo XG device locally. Once the device is properly configured, these applications are only needed for maintenance.
Vertigo XG’s Desktop Applications & Tools Vertigo XG’s desktop - device identification To easily identify the active device, the Vertigo XG’s desktop features the Vertigo XG logo, as well as identification information related specifically to the Vertigo XG device (figure 3-1).
Vertigo XG’s Desktop Applications & Tools Vertigo XG Control Panel and XG Dashboard When the Vertigo XG is started, the Vertigo XG Control Panel is automatically opened on the desktop (figure 3-2). The Control Panel is a simple user interface that allows you to quickly reference general information about the Vertigo XG device, as well as perform basic tasks for operating the Vertigo XG like, loading a scene and launching the XG Dashboard application. Figure 3-2.
Vertigo XG’s Desktop Applications & Tools FILE>OPEN Launches the OPEN dialog box, allowing you to select and load a scene to the Vertigo XG device. The directory that the Open dialog box opens is set in the PUBLISH PATH parameter on Dashboard’s GENERAL page. The default directory location for Vertigo XG scenes is F:\Scene. Please see “XPublish Agent Control Panel” on page 3-16 for instructions about how to properly set the publish path directories. FILE>EXIT Closes the Vertigo XG’s Control Panel window.
Vertigo XG’s Desktop Applications & Tools Xplay - Playout control application When the Vertigo XG is started, the Xplay application automatically opens on the desktop (figure 3-3). Xplay is the playout control application that the master control system or device uses to control the playout of video and graphics on the Vertigo XG device. The master control system/device and Xplay communicate with each other using industry standard automation protocols. Figure 3-3.
Vertigo XG’s Desktop Applications & Tools Device Manager As the intermediary between the master control system and the Vertigo XG device, Xplay must establish a connection directly with the Vertigo XG device. This connection is defined by adding the Vertigo XG device to Xplay’s Device Manager (figure 3-4). The Device Manager is accessed by selecting Xplay’s TOOLS>DEVICE MANAGER menu command. Figure 3-4.
Vertigo XG’s Desktop Applications & Tools external keyer device will appear in Xplay’s device view keyers that are associated with the Vertigo XG (figure 3-5). Figure 3-5. LEDs indicate the status of the Vertigo XG and its external keyer device • PUBLISH MASTER: Must be left empty. The Device Manager also features a table (figure 3-6), which displays the number of device keyers that can be controlled by Xplay.
Vertigo XG’s Desktop Applications & Tools Automation Configuration For the Vertigo XG to be controlled by an automation system, the Vertigo XG device must be mapped to an automation protocol in Xplay’s Automation Configuration window (figure 3-7). Figure 3-7. Xplay Automation Configuration dialog box NOTE The Vertigo XG device must be added to Xplay’s Device Manager prior to opening the Automation Configuration window. See page 3-6 for more information about the Device Manager.
Vertigo XG’s Desktop Applications & Tools If the device is properly mapped to a protocol, simply click OK or CANCEL to close the XPLAY AUTOMATION CONFIGURATION window. However, if the device is not mapped to an automation protocol: a. Select the ADD PROTOCOL button next to the device. b. Select a protocol from the drop-down list and press ENTER. c. Verify and set the protocol’s properties. d. Click OK.
Vertigo XG’s Desktop Applications & Tools Vertigo Command Shell When the Vertigo XG device is started, the VERTIGO COMMAND SHELL window (figure 3-11) automatically opens on the desktop. The Vertigo Command Shell window allows you to perform some basic command tasks like opening Windows Explorer and shutdown/reboot the Vertigo XG device. Figure 3-11.
Vertigo XG’s Desktop Applications & Tools Reopening the Vertigo Command Shell window If ever the Vertigo Command Shell window is closed by accident, you can reopen the window by performing the following procedure: 1. Press CTRL + SHIFT + ESC The Windows Task Manager opens. 2. Select the FILE>NEW TASK (RUN...) command. The CREATE NEW TASK dialog box appears. 3. Type cmd in the OPEN text box and click OK. 4. The VERTIGO COMMAND SHELL window opens on the desktop.
Vertigo XG’s Desktop Applications & Tools Windows Explorer Since Vertigo XG’s desktop does not contain any icons or shortcuts, therefore you may need to access Windows Explorer (figure 3-12) to navigate through your system. Figure 3-12.
Vertigo XG’s Desktop Applications & Tools Embedded Xmedia Server Control Panel The Vertigo XG contains an Embedded Xmedia Server (EXMS), which acts as a local asset database, as well as offering various services to the Vertigo XG. The user interface for configuring and controlling the Embedded Xmedia Server is the EMBEDDED XMEDIA SERVER (EXMS) CONTROL PANEL.
Vertigo XG’s Desktop Applications & Tools Service Control In most cases, the EXMS service is set to automatically launch and run in the background when the Vertigo XG is powered up. At times, the service may need to be stopped and restarted, either manually or as the result of a failure in the system. Therefore, the EXMS Control Panel’s Service Control page provides you with buttons and settings for stopping and restarting the EXMS service.
Vertigo XG’s Desktop Applications & Tools XFTP The XFTP service allows assets to be moved from the central of stand-alone Xmedia Server to the EXMS without a direct TCP connection. The technique involves first publishing the assets to an FTP device. Then the content can be ingested from the FTP device onto the EXMS.
Vertigo XG’s Desktop Applications & Tools XPublish Agent Control Panel Assets are moved from the central Xmedia Server to the Vertigo XG device in a process referred to as publishing. The XPublish Agent (XPA) is a special service on the Vertigo XG device, which is responsible for receiving and processing the publish requests and making the media available to the Vertigo XG.
Vertigo XG’s Desktop Applications & Tools Data Server Control Panel The Data Server is a service that runs in the background on the Embedded Xmedia Server and is responsible for managing data coming from various feeds by providing live updates of data values when requested, and distributing the data to the appropriate recipients. The DATA SERVER CONTROL PANEL (VertigoXmedia Data Server Option window) is the user interface that is used to configure and control the Data Server service (figure 3-14).
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4 VERTIGO XG PORTAL - VERTIGO XG’S REMOTE CONFIGURATION TOOL The VERTIGO XG PORTAL (figure 4-1) is a web server interface that provides you with remote access to information about a specific Vertigo XG device’s settings and operation. You can also use the Vertigo XG Portal to perform some basic configuration and control tasks, like change the network settings or shutdown/restart the device. Figure 4-1.
Vertigo XG Portal - Vertigo XG’s Remote Configuration Tool Accessing and logging into the Vertigo XG Portal Once the Vertigo XG device is running and is properly connected to the LAN, you can access the Vertigo XG Portal from any client workstation that is connected to the network using a standard graphical web browser, like Internet Explorer. NOTE As a prerequisite to using the Vertigo XG Portal, you must know that Vertigo XG devices IP address.
Vertigo XG Portal - Vertigo XG’s Remote Configuration Tool 4. Choose from among the menu bar to perform the various functions. See page 4-4 for descriptions of each of the menu commands. NOTE Please ensure that you log out when you are finished to prevent any unauthorized access to these configuration pages. See page 4-13 for instructions on how to log off.
Vertigo XG Portal - Vertigo XG’s Remote Configuration Tool Overview of the Vertigo XG Portal’s menu commands With the exception of the LOGIN page, the VERTIGO XG PORTAL always features a menu bar in the top banner that allows you to navigate throughout the application (figure 4-4). Figure 4-4.
Vertigo XG Portal - Vertigo XG’s Remote Configuration Tool Setup The SETUP menu features the following commands that allow you to edit the Vertigo XG device’s current network, host name, and Date/Time settings using a remote workstation. • NETWORK SETUP: Allows you to configure the network settings of the Vertigo XG device, including the IP ADDRESS, SUBNET MASK, and DEFAULT GATEWAY. See page 4-9 for more information. • HOSTNAME SETUP: Allows you to assign a new host name for the Vertigo XG device.
Vertigo XG Portal - Vertigo XG’s Remote Configuration Tool Remotely shutting down the Vertigo XG device The Vertigo XG Portal allows you to shutdown of the Vertigo XG device from a remote workstation using the MAINTENANCE menu’s SHUTDOWN SYSTEM command. To shutdown the Vertigo XG device using the Vertigo XG Portal: 1. Log into the Vertigo XG’s Portal (see page 4-2). 2. Select the MAINTENANCE>SYSTEM SHUTDOWN command. The Portal’s SYSTEM SHUTDOWN page appears (figure 4-5). Figure 4-5.
Vertigo XG Portal - Vertigo XG’s Remote Configuration Tool Restarting the Vertigo XG device remotely The Vertigo XG Portal allows you to restart an actively running Vertigo XG device from a remote workstation using the RESTART SYSTEM command in the MAINTENANCE menu. NOTE The Vertigo XG device must be operating for the Vertigo XG Portal to be available. Therefore, once the Vertigo XG device is shutdown, you can no longer use the Vertigo XG Portal to configure or restart the device.
Vertigo XG Portal - Vertigo XG’s Remote Configuration Tool Viewing the processes running on the Vertigo XG device The Vertigo XG Portal allows you to view and monitor (in real time), a comprehensive list of the processes that are currently running on the Vertigo XG device (figure 4-9). Like the PROCESSES tab in the Windows Task Manager, the Portal’s Processes page reports and measures each process’ status and performance.
Vertigo XG Portal - Vertigo XG’s Remote Configuration Tool Configuring Vertigo XG’s network settings The Vertigo XG Portal allows you to conveniently configure the Vertigo XG device’s network settings from a remote workstation. The Portal’s NETWORK SETUP page allows you to change the following settings: IP ADDRESS, SUBNET MASK, and DEFAULT GATEWAY. We recommend that a static IP address be assigned to the Vertigo XG device when it is originally installed and configured.
Vertigo XG Portal - Vertigo XG’s Remote Configuration Tool 4. Click the APPLY button. A window appears asking you to confirm that you want to change the IP Address (figure 4-11). Figure 4-11. Confirm whether or not you want to apply the new settings 5. Click OK to apply the new IP Address, or click CANCEL to keep the previous hostname. NOTE The Vertigo XG device does not have to be restarted for these settings to be applied.
Vertigo XG Portal - Vertigo XG’s Remote Configuration Tool Specifying the Vertigo XG device’s hostname The Vertigo XG Portal allows you to conveniently change the Vertigo XG device’s hostname from a remote workstation. NOTE Changing the hostname requires that the Vertigo XG device be immediately restarted for the change to be applied. To change the Vertigo XG device’s hostname: 1. Log into the Vertigo XG’s Portal (see page 4-2). 2. Select the SETUP>HOSTNAME SETUP command.
Vertigo XG Portal - Vertigo XG’s Remote Configuration Tool Specifying the Vertigo XG device’s Date & Time settings The Vertigo XG Portal allows you to conveniently change the Vertigo XG device’s date and time settings. NOTE Any change to the TIME setting will not take effect if a timecode card is installed. To change the Vertigo XG device’s Date and/or Time settings: 1. Log into the Vertigo XG’s Portal (see page 4-2). 2. Select the SETUP>TIME SETUP command.
Vertigo XG Portal - Vertigo XG’s Remote Configuration Tool Logging off of the Vertigo XG Portal To prevent any unauthorized access to the Vertigo XG Portal’s configuration pages, we highly recommend that you log out when you are finished your session. To log out of the Vertigo XG Portal: • Click the LOGOUT menu command. The Vertigo XG Portal immediately returns to its LOGIN page and your session has securely been terminated.
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5 DASHBOARD - VERTIGO XG’S LOCAL CONFIGURATION SOFTWARE Dashboard is an application that allows you to configure the settings and behavior of the Vertigo hardware devices (Intuition XG or Vertigo XG) and software CG that are currently running on your network. The Dashboard application simplifies the configuration process by offering a series of pages containing the parameters that control how video and audio is rendered and output. Figure 5-1.
Dashboard - Vertigo XG’s Local Configuration Software The following topics aim to further explain the function of Dashboard, as well as familiarize you with the various parts of Dashboard’s interface: • “About the Dashboard” on page 5-3 • “Starting Dashboard” on page 5-4 • “An overview of the Dashboard’s interface components” on page 5-5 • “Dashboard’s menus and buttons” on page 5-6 • “Device List” on page 5-8 • “Device Profile page” on page 5-15 • “Device Settings tabs and configuration pages”
Dashboard - Vertigo XG’s Local Configuration Software About the Dashboard Dashboard is an application that allows you to modify the settings and behavior of Vertigo devices. One of the first things that Dashboard does is perform a device discovery, which searches your local machine and/or your network for all active Vertigo devices (i.e. Vertigo XG, Vertigo XG) and then lists them on Dashboard’s Device List.
Dashboard - Vertigo XG’s Local Configuration Software Starting Dashboard The Dashboard application can be started by selecting the TOOLS>LAUNCH DASHBOARD command on the Vertigo XG device’s Control Panel. Figure 5-2. Select the TOOLS>LAUNCH DASHBOARD command to start the Dashboard Alternatively, the Dashboard application can also be started independently by navigating through Windows Explorer to the Dashboard.
Dashboard - Vertigo XG’s Local Configuration Software An overview of the Dashboard’s interface components Dashboard is a graphical interface that consists of a series of tabbed pages containing the parameters and settings for the Vertigo devices on the network.
Dashboard - Vertigo XG’s Local Configuration Software Dashboard’s menus and buttons The following tables describe the actions that are performed by Dashboard’s menu commands and buttons: FILE MENU • • • LOAD DEVICE LIST : Clears the Device List and repopulates it using the saved list of devices stored on disk from a previous session. When Dashboard starts up, it automatically performs a load to populate the device list.
Dashboard - Vertigo XG’s Local Configuration Software TOOLS MENU SETTINGS > DEVICE DISCOVERY: Opens the Device Discovery Tool, which is used to set the method that will be used to detect available devices, whether they are local or remote (on the network). HELP MENU Opens the ABOUT XG DASHBOARD dialog box, which displays the Dashboard product information, including the version number.
Dashboard - Vertigo XG’s Local Configuration Software Device List The Device List identifies the Vertigo devices that were found on the host machine (local) and/or on the network when a device discovery search is performed. Depending upon which SETTINGS MODE is selected, Dashboard displays either the Device Profile page or the configuration pages for the selected device.
Dashboard - Vertigo XG’s Local Configuration Software Loading and refreshing the device list The mechanism used to find and list devices on Dashboard ‘s Device List is a tool called the Device Discovery Tool. As described on page 5-11, the Device Discovery tool allows you to select between two methods of searching for Vertigo devices: automatic or manual.
Dashboard - Vertigo XG’s Local Configuration Software Restarting a device in the device list During configuration, there are some device parameters that require that the Vertigo device to be restarted before the new settings can take effect. When these settings are changed, Dashboard automatically prompts you with a dialog box asking if you want to restart the device immediately.
Dashboard - Vertigo XG’s Local Configuration Software Device Discovery Tool The Dashboard Device Discovery tool allows you to set the method to be used to detect the Vertigo devices that are local to your machine or on your network. Once the devices are located, Dashboard lists them on the Device List, which allows you to view and edit the device’s settings. The Device Discovery tool is accessed by selecting Dashboard’s TOOLS > SETTINGS > DEVICE DISCOVERY menu command (figure 5-4). Figure 5-4.
Dashboard - Vertigo XG’s Local Configuration Software MANUAL PORT INFORMATION • STARTING PORT: Specifies the port number to use as the starting point for searching for devices. • PORTS TO SCAN: Specifies the number of ports to scan starting at the port number specified in the Starting Port. IP INFORMATION Displays a list of IP addresses to scan to detect Vertigo devices. The IP address is that of the machine that the device is running on.
Dashboard - Vertigo XG’s Local Configuration Software Performing a Manual Device Discovery The Device Discovery’s manual mode allows you to focus your device search by limiting the search to particular port and IP limits. The search begins scanning for devices from the port number specified and then each sequential port up as specified by the Ports to Scan value.
Dashboard - Vertigo XG’s Local Configuration Software Performing an Automatic Device Discovery The automatic method of performing a device discovery provides you with the options of scanning only your local machine for an active Vertigo device, or to scan the network within a specified time out period. To perform an automatic device discovery: 1. Open the Device Discovery tool. TOOLS > SETTINGS > DEVICE DISCOVERY 2. 3. Set the Device Discovery method in the device discovery tool. a.
Dashboard - Vertigo XG’s Local Configuration Software Device Profile page The Device Profile page appears below Dashboard’s Device List when the SETTINGS MODE is set to SIMPLE and a device is selected from the Device List (figure 5-5). The Device Profile page provides a brief summary of some of the device and system’s settings that may be relevant when operating or troubleshooting the system. Figure 5-5.
Dashboard - Vertigo XG’s Local Configuration Software OUTPUT • • RESOLUTION: Allows you to set the resolution format that is used for processing within the Vertigo device. You can set the output Resolution either in this field or in the OUTPUTS RESOLUTION field on the ADVANCED>RESOLUTION PAGE (page 5-21). CHANNEL: Specifies the output channel used by the Vertigo device. The available output channels are determined by the installed hardware.
Dashboard - Vertigo XG’s Local Configuration Software Device Settings tabs and configuration pages Selecting ADVANCED from the SETTINGS MODE drop-down list produces a series of eight (8) tabs that display thematic pages of parameters and settings that allow you to configure the selected device (figure 5-6). Figure 5-6.
Dashboard - Vertigo XG’s Local Configuration Software Device settings buttons When Dashboard is in ADVANCED Settings Mode, selecting the tabs exposes the device’s configuration pages, which allows you to edit the device’s current settings. Once you have made the desired changes to the settings, you must apply the changes to the device by selecting the APPLY CHANGES button. Note that for some changes to take effect, Dashboard will request that the device be restarted (see RESTART DEVICE on page 5-6).
Dashboard - Vertigo XG’s Local Configuration Software General page Selecting the GENERAL tab in Advanced Settings mode, opens the General settings page (figure 5-8). This configuration page provides you access to a series of miscellaneous device parameters, including storage settings and communication settings between the Vertigo devices, Xplay, and/or the broadcast monitor. Figure 5-8.
Dashboard - Vertigo XG’s Local Configuration Software AUTOMATION MODE: Determines the timestamping mechanism used for commands between the Vertigo devices and Xplay. • DISABLED: When selected the timestamp of the command will be ignored and the command is executed immediately. • SYSTEM COUNTER: High performance counter issued to reference the time of the command. • SYSTEM CLOCK: Sets the format of the timestamps, which is timecodebased (Hour: Minute: Seconds: Frames).
Dashboard - Vertigo XG’s Local Configuration Software Resolution page The Resolution page (figure 5-9) provides access to the device parameters that set the input, rendering, and output resolution of the video data. Figure 5-9. The Resolution tab and page on the Dashboard window INPUT RESOLUTION This parameter is only available to Vertigo hardware devices (not the software CG).
Dashboard - Vertigo XG’s Local Configuration Software INPUT RESOLUTION CONTINUED OUTPUT RESOLUTION • 1080P24:Sets the rendering resolution to1080p24 format (1920 x 1080) Rate: 24 • 1080P25:Sets the rendering resolution to 1080p25 format (1920 x 1080) Rate: 25 • 1080P30M: Sets the rendering resolution to 1080p30m format (1920 x 1080) Rate: 29.
Dashboard - Vertigo XG’s Local Configuration Software Live Window page In addition to the output display, the Live Window page provides you with parameters for enabling an additional display of a window on the computer monitor (Live Window) that shows the output of the Vertigo device. Figure 5-10. The Live Window tab and page on the Dashboard window ENABLED Enables the display of the Live Window. In the case of the Vertigo CG, the Live Window is the only method of seeing the output.
Dashboard - Vertigo XG’s Local Configuration Software Mode - continued WINDOW BEHAVIOR: The following parameters are activated when Windowed is selected, and they allow you to set the positioning and size of the Live Window. • ALWAYS ON TOP: Specifies whether the Live Windows is always the top window. • FRAMED: Enables a frame around the Live Window. • CAPTION: Allows the override of the default Live Window caption (title). • SCALE: Specifies a scaling factor for the width and height of the live window.
Dashboard - Vertigo XG’s Local Configuration Software Clips page The parameters on the Clips page allow you to set clip rendering characteristics. Figure 5-11. The Clips tab and page on the Dashboard window RENDERER The following fields specifies which renderer will be used to produce and insert the graphics and video clips for output. VMR9: Specifies that the VMR9 (Video Mixing Renderer 9) will be used for clip playback. This is the default renderer.
Dashboard - Vertigo XG’s Local Configuration Software REFERENCE CLOCK AUTO: Specifies that the clip rendering will be clocked. ON: Specifies that the clock will always be used in clip rendering. OFF: Specifies that the clock will not be used in clip rendering. FILE EXTENSIONS Specifies the extensions of video file formats that are supported. Although the more commonly used formats are already listed in this field, you can also add additional format extensions to the list.
Dashboard - Vertigo XG’s Local Configuration Software 3D Engine page The 3D Engine page provides access to parameters that allow you to set some parameters that affect the way in which 3D graphics are rendered and output by the Vertigo hardware devices. The following table describes each of the parameters on the 3D Engine page. Figure 5-12.
Dashboard - Vertigo XG’s Local Configuration Software MODE • • • GENERAL LAND SCAPE: The default orientation of the Vertigo device’s output. PORTRAIT: Rotates the Vertigo device’s entire output by 90 degrees clockwise. INVERTED PORTRAIT: Rotates the Vertigo device’s entire output by 90 degrees counter-clockwise. FORCE POWER OF 2 TEXTURES: Textures are typically square and must have side lengths equal to a power of 2.
Dashboard - Vertigo XG’s Local Configuration Software Logging page The logging page allows you to set parameters to create log files that record the status of events while the Vertigo devices are running. The log files can then be use to investigate device behavior and debug. Figure 5-13. The Logging tab and page on the Dashboard window ENABLED When selected, the remaining logging parameters become available for creating log files to monitor and debug the Vertigo device.
Dashboard - Vertigo XG’s Local Configuration Software EVENT SEVERITY Sets the severity categories that will be reported to the log file. • ERROR: An error of some type has occurred. • FATAL: An error has occurred that cannot be recovered from. • WARNING: Be aware that something unexpected has happened. • MESSAGE: A general message. • DEBUG: Information used to help debug problems. SELECT ALL button: Allows you to quickly select all of the severity categories to be reported in the log file.
Dashboard - Vertigo XG’s Local Configuration Software Hardware Settings > Genlock page The Genlock page is a sub-page of the Hardware Settings tab, which is only visible when a Vertigo hardware device is selected in the Dashboard’s device list. The Genlock page (figure 5-14) exposes parameters that allow you to set the Vertigo device’s genlock reference signal that synchronizes the phase timing eliminating video jitter.
Dashboard - Vertigo XG’s Local Configuration Software RESOLUTION - CONTINUED • NTSC_WIDE: Sets the rendering resolution to NTSC-Wide format (800 x 486) • PAL: Sets the rendering resolution to PAL format (720 x 576) • PAL_WIDE: Sets the rendering resolution to PAL-Wide format (800 x 576) • 720P60: Sets the rendering resolution to 720p60 format (1280 x 720) • 720P60M: Sets the rendering resolution to 720p60M format (1280 x 720) • 1080I25: Sets the rendering resolution to 1080i25 format (1920 x 1080) • 1080I
Dashboard - Vertigo XG’s Local Configuration Software STATUS & REFRESH button - Continued • UNKNOWN (UPDATE THE XG SOFTWARE): This message appears when the version of the Vertigo software that is being used is an earlier version and does not support this feature. If this is the case, you need to update the Vertigo software. Click the REFRESH button to request an update of the Genlock status of the source.
Dashboard - Vertigo XG’s Local Configuration Software Hardware Settings > Video page The Video page is a sub-page of the Hardware Settings tab, which is only visible when a Vertigo hardware device is selected in the Dashboard’s device list. The Video page (figure 5-15) exposes parameters that allow you to set the Vertigo device’s video input/output channels and video processing options. Figure 5-15.
Dashboard - Vertigo XG’s Local Configuration Software VIDEO MODE Specifies how the Vertigo hardware device passes through video. • BACKGROUND VIDEO ON: The Vertigo device will always display the video input as the back most layer, even without any scene loaded. • VIDEO ON CLEAR: When the Vertigo device has nothing to render (no scenes have been loaded), it will display the video input.
Dashboard - Vertigo XG’s Local Configuration Software Hardware Settings > Audio page The Audio page is a sub-page of the Hardware Settings tab, which is only visible when a Vertigo hardware device is selected in the Dashboard’s device list. The Audio page (figure 5-16) exposes parameters that allow you to set the Vertigo device’s audio processing. Figure 5-16.
Dashboard - Vertigo XG’s Local Configuration Software OUTPUT • • • • • MIXING PROFILES AES: Specifies that the audio output signal is discrete (AES), rather than being embedded (SDI) in the video signal. EMBEDDED: Specifies that the audio output signal is embedded in the video signal (SDI), rather than a discrete (AES) audio signal (separate from the video signal). STEREO PAIRS: Specifies the number of stereo pairs to be captured from the current audio source.
Dashboard - Vertigo XG’s Local Configuration Software Hardware Settings > Ancillary page The Ancillary page contains parameters that allows for control over the Vertical Ancillary Data Space (VANC). This includes options such as simply passthrough through the VANC INPUT section and more complex management (extraction/generation/insertion) of Ancillary Data Packets (such as CDP, AFD and SDP types) through the VANC OUTPUT section (figure 5-17). Figure 5-17.
Dashboard - Vertigo XG’s Local Configuration Software VANC OUTPUT • • • • • • VANC PROCESSING GENERATED VANC: When selected, it indicates that Vertigo XG is operating in generated VANC output (This setting supersedes the VBI Passthrough mode).
Dashboard - Vertigo XG’s Local Configuration Software VANC PROCESSING - CONTINUED 5-40 • INITIAL AFD SOURCE: The INITIAL AFD SOURCE parameter tells the Vertigo XG device where it should look to find a value to insert in the AFD ancillary data packet. Choose from the following three options: • VIDEOIN: VideoIn is selected, then you must also select which input to use (A or B). Vertigo XG scans that VANC SDI input for any AFD codes and then inserts that value into an AFD ancillary data packet.
Dashboard - Vertigo XG’s Local Configuration Software Hardware Settings > Watch Dog page The Watch Dog is a feature that allows the system to continue video passthrough on a Vertigo hardware device during an application crash or a system failure. The Watch Dog page is a sub-page of the Hardware Settings tab, which is only visible when a Vertigo hardware device is selected in the Dashboard’s device list. Use the settings below to configure the Vertigo device’s Watch Dog.
Dashboard - Vertigo XG’s Local Configuration Software Licensing page The Device Settings’ Licensing page allows you to set the XMS IP and port information that is used to retrieve and identify valid application licenses for the Vertigo devices, as well as clip and audio licenses (hardware devices only). Figure 5-19. The Licensing tab and page on the Dashboard window XMS IP ADDRESS Sets the IP address of the EXMS that the application will attempt to checkout licenses from.
Dashboard - Vertigo XG’s Local Configuration Software Audio Mixing Profiles dialog box The Audio Mixing Profiles dialog box allows you to create up to ten (10) audio mixing profiles that can be assigned as defaults for the various audio formats on the Dashboard’s Hardware Settings’ Audio page. See “Hardware Settings > Audio page” on page 5-36 for more details regarding assigning defaults.
Dashboard - Vertigo XG’s Local Configuration Software MATRIX FORMAT Drop-down List This drop-down list contains three (3) predefined matrix formats that you can use as the basis for building your mixing profile. Although the matrixes are a predefined size, you can add channels to the matrix format by using the ADD SOURCE and ADD DESTINATION commands.
Dashboard - Vertigo XG’s Local Configuration Software SAVE / CANCEL buttons The SAVE button saves the mixing profile matrix, and any changes that where made to the matrix values or structure, by associating it with a number in the Profile ID list. The CANCEL button allows you to exit the Audio Mixing Profile dialog box without saving any of the changes made to the mixing matrixes/profiles. ADD SOURCE command Use the ADD SOURCE command to add an additional source channel to a predefined mix matrix.
Dashboard - Vertigo XG’s Local Configuration Software Creating an audio profile using the Audio Mixing Profile dialog box 1. Open the Audio Mixing Profile dialog box by pressing the EDIT PROFILES button on the Hardware Settings’ Audio page (figure 5-21). Figure 5-21. Hardware Settings’ Audio page 2. 5-46 Select a predefined matrix format from the drop-down list.
Dashboard - Vertigo XG’s Local Configuration Software 3. 4. 5. 6. Press the ADD button to add the profile to the Profile ID column. The matrix is assigned a Profile ID number (0 to 9). The audio mixing matrix appears in the main frame with a default channel matching profile (i.e. 100% of source channel 0 to destination channel 0). Assign the mixing values by typing the mixing values for each of the channels in the matrix.
Dashboard - Vertigo XG’s Local Configuration Software 5-48 Vertigo XG Configuration Guide
6 CONTACT US Contact Miranda Technical Support For technical assistance, please contact the Miranda Technical support centre nearest you: Americas Telephone: +1-800-224-7882 e-mail: techsupp@miranda.com Asia Telephone: +81-3-5644-7663 e-mail: asiatech@miranda.com Europe, Middle East, Africa, UK Telephone: +44 (0) 1491 820222 e-mail: eurotech@miranda.com France (only) Telephone: +33 (0) 1 55 86 87 88 e-mail: francetech@miranda.com Contact Miranda Technologies Inc. 3499 Douglas-B.
Contact Us 6-2 Vertigo XG Configuration Guide
INDEX Numerics AV Sync 5-37 3D Engine Page 5-27 B A Adapter Ordinal 5-24 AES 5-36, 5-37 AES audio connectors 2-7 AES audio input 5-36 AFD processing 5-39 Alarm Reset 2-3 Analog Reference In 2-10 Ancillary AFD Line 5-39 Ancillary CDP Line 5-39 Ancillary Dolby Line 5-39 Ancillary page 5-38 Ancillary SDP Line 5-39 Animation codec 5-26 Apply Changes button 5-18 ATC passthrough 5-38 Audio audio extensions 5-26 audio file formats 1-11 audio I/O ports 2-5 audio rate 5-26 discrete 2-11, 5-36, 5-37 embedded 2-11,
Index D Dashboard 3-3 about 5-1, 5-5 device discovery 5-11 device list 5-8 Device Settings pages 5-17 General Information tab 5-15 launch 5-4 license tab 1-7 parameters, see the parameter’s name starting 3-4, 5-4 Data Server Control Panel 3-17 Date & Time settings 4-12 Dead Band 5-20 Default AFD Value 5-39 Default Gateway 4-9 DeInterlacing 5-25 Desktop information 3-2 Device configuration in Xplay 3-6 Device discovery 5-11 automatic 5-12, 5-14 manual 5-12, 5-13 Device Discovery tool 5-11 Device identificat
Index cel animation file formats 1-9 clip file formats 1-10 image file formats 1-9 Fill 5-20 Fill and Key 5-20 delay 5-35 Force Power of 2 Textures 5-28 Forced Software 5-25 G General page 5-19 Generated VANC 5-39 Genlock bit count 5-32 blackburst 5-31 free running 5-32, 5-33 horizontal delay 5-33 internal 5-31 locked 5-32, 5-33 refresh 5-32, 5-33 relocking 5-32, 5-33 resolution 5-32, 5-33 SDI Video A 5-31 SDI Video B 5-31 status 5-32, 5-33 unknown status 5-32, 5-33 vertical delay 5-33 Genlock page 5-11 G
Index M Manual device discovery 5-13 Media storage 2-13 Mip Mapping 5-27 load bias 5-27 Mixing Profiles 5-37, 5-39 audio input A default 5-37 audio input B default 5-37 Audio Mixing Profiles dialog box 5-37 clip default 5-37 edit profiles button 5-37 multi-track clip default 5-37 wav default 5-37 Monitor GPI 5-41 Monitoring device 5-10 Mouse connector 2-4 MPEG2 5-26 Mute 2-3 N Near View-Plane Factor 5-27 Network Ethernet connectors 2-5 NIC connectors 2-5 O On Board Compositor 5-35 Only Scan Local Machine
Index Restart device 5-10 Restore Factory Defaults button 5-18 Roll update interval 5-20 RS-232 connector pinout 2-5 RS-232 port connector 2-5 RS-422 connector 2-6 RS-422 connector pinout 2-6 S Save Device List 5-12 Scale - Live Window 5-24 SDI In A 2-10 SDI In B 2-10 SDI Out A 2-10 SDI Out B 2-10 SDI OUT C / KEY 2-10 SDI OUT D / KEY 2-10 SDI video card connector 2-7 Simulcast downstream branding 1-6 Single channel 2-10 Snapshot 5-20 Starting Port 5-12 Statistics 5-20 Stereo audio profile 5-43 Stereo Pair
Index X XFTP 3-15 XMS IP address 5-42 XMS license tab 5-42 XMS port 5-42 Xplay 2-12, 3-5 automation configuration 3-8 automation settings 3-9 device manager 3-6 license manager 1-7 XPublish Agent 3-6, 3-16 Y YUV Processing 5-35 Index-6 Vertigo XG Configuration Guide
