Datasheet

applications. Using one of the GPI/GPO functions along with
the auxiliary 5.5 volt DC power source would allow a complete
camera tally indicator to be fully implemented.
Signal Embedding and Continuous
Operation
All Live-Link Jr. audio and support signals are transported
between units as embedded SDI data. This data is combined
with the data already present on the connected SDI input
signals. The support signals, such as serial data and GPI/GPO,
are embedded as ancillary data. Four Live-Link Jr.-associated
audio signals are transported in each direction, each as one
group of standard embedded SDI audio data. The two mic/line
inputs and two intercom audio channels are sent from the
camera end unit to the truck end unit. The two line/IFB inputs
and two intercom audio channels are sent from the truck end
unit to the camera end unit. By default the Live-Link Jr. audio
is embedded on group 2, with any audio on groups 1, 3, and 4
being passed through from the SDI input on either end to the
SDI output on the other. A configuration setting allows this
group to be changed from 2 to 3. This audio transport design
was carefully implemented so that audio embedded by an
external device, such as a camera, will be passed through Live-
Link Jr. Audio associated with Live-Link Jr. is embedded into
the SDI signal along with the externally-embedded audio. The
resulting SDI signal can be a valuable resource, for example
when connected to the input of a video router.
Should an external source of SDI not be provided to the cam
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era end or truck end units’ SDI input, internal SDI clock and
video signal generators will become active. This ensures that
an SDI signal will always be present, and audio and support
signal transport will be maintained. The internally-generated
SDI video signal can be selected from among two choices.
The default provides a unique solid color that slowly changes
over the SDI video data palette. This ensures that connected
equipment, and associated users, will be able to recognize
that the signal is active. An alternate setting allows color bars
to be generated.
Optical Transport
The camera end and truck end units interconnect using two
strands of single-mode optical fiber. Only a single optical
wavelength per fiber is required since all video, audio, serial
data, GPI/GPO, and support signals are transported as part of
the SDI data stream. Two ST optical connectors are provided
on the back panel of the truck end unit. The camera end unit
can be ordered from either of two optical connectors. The
standard configuration uses a Neutrik® opticalCON DUO®
which provides two fiber and four copper connections. This
advanced connector offers a number of advantages for Live-
Link Jr. users including fast, reliable mating and un-mating,
fiber protection, and the option of providing power to the
camera end unit. The camera end unit can also be ordered
with two ST optical connectors. This can prove beneficial for
applications that need to utilize an existing inventory of fiber
optic cable that is terminated with low-cost, more-generic ST
connectors. This typically would be available at facilities such
as sports stadiums or convention centers where “house fiber”
is offered. It’s also common for mobile broadcast and field-
production applications to bring tactical-grade TAC-4 or
TAC-12 multi-strand fiber assemblies where ST connectors
are present.
Truck End Unit Details
The truck end unit mounts in one space (1U) of a standard
19-inch rack. Housed in an aluminum enclosure the unit
weighs less than 4 pounds (1.8 kg), making it perfect for
mobile or “fly-away” applications. LEDs on the front panel
provide a complete view of system operation, including an
indication of the camera end unit’s optical interconnection
status. Standard connectors ensure fast, easy, and low-cost
installation as well as rapid, straight-ahead troubleshooting.
The connectors include BNCs for digital video, 3-pin XLRs
for audio, and a 9-pin D-subminiature for data.
The truck end unit allows an AC mains source of 100-240
volt, 50/60 Hz to be directly connected. The unit can also be
DC powered using a 10-18 volt source that is connected via
a broadcast-standard 4-pin XLR connector. If both AC and
DC power sources are connected the unit will be powered
by the AC mains supply. Only if the AC mains source fails
will a load be placed on the DC source. This allows a source
of DC, typically a battery pack, to serve in a backup capacity.
With this arrangement normal operation can continue even
if AC mains power is lost.
Camera End Unit Details
The Live-Link Jr. camera end unit is housed in a lightweight
aluminum enclosure with an integrated carry handle. Weigh
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ing less than 6 pounds (2.8 kg) it is well suited for portable
applications. As with the truck end unit, all camera end unit
input and output signals are interfaced using standard con
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nectors. A combination of status LEDs and multi-LED audio
level meters are provided for operating and troubleshooting
assistance.
The camera end unit can be powered from up to three sources.
A 4-pin XLR connector on the front panel allows an external
12 volt DC nominal power supply to be connected. A battery
mount, located on the back of the unit’s cover, allows use of a
broadcast-standard rechargeable battery. The standard battery
mount is compatible with batteries from Anton/Bauer®. As an
option a “V-Mount” battery mount can be provided.
A third input power option is available to Live-Link Jr. cam
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era end units that are ordered with the Neutrik opticalCON
Studio Technologies, Inc. Live-Link Jr. Remote Camera Interface System, Issue 5, Page 3