The SPG8000 is a precision multi-format video signal generator, suitable for master synchronization and reference applications. It provides multiple video reference signals, such as black burst, HD tri-level sync, and serial digital and composite analog test patterns, and it provides time reference signals such as time code and NTP (Network Time Protocol).
The base configuration includes three sync outputs that can be configured with independent output formats (NTSC/PAL black burst and/or HD tri-level sync) and independently adjustable timing offsets. With the BG option, four more analog outputs can be added. A high-accuracy, oven-controlled crystal oscillator provides a stable frequency reference for the system, or the pass-through genlock input can be used to lock to an external video reference or 10 MHz continuous wave signal. The SPG8000’s Stay feature avoids “synchronization shock” if the external reference GenLock® suffers a temporary disturbance, by maintaining the frequency and phase of each output signal. When the external reference is restored, Stay GenLock® ensures that any accumulated clock drift is removed by slowly adjusting the system clock within standard limits instead of “jamming” back to the correct phase.
Time reference outputs are available in multiple formats. Three independent linear time code (LTC) outputs are available, and a fourth LTC connection can be used as input or output. Each LTC output has independent frame rate selection, time source (time-of-day or program time) and time zone offset. Vertical interval time code (VITC) is available on each NTSC or PAL black output, also with independent time sources and offsets. The SPG8000 can also serve as a Network Time Protocol (NTP) server, providing the time-of-day reference to network-attached devices.
Optional GPS Receiver
The GPS option adds an internal GPS receiver to the SPG8000. When connected to an external antenna that supplies the standard GPS RF signal, the SPG8000 can utilize the GPS system’s stable frequency reference. The GPS signal also includes a precise time-of-day reference that can be used for all time code outputs. Similar to the Stay GenLock® the SPG8000 can maintain the video frequency and phase when the
GPS signal is interrupted, and the Holdover Recovery mode will ensure a shock-free re-alignment of frequency and phase when the GPS signal is restored.
Test Signal Outputs
The SPG8000 can be optionally configured with a variety of test signal outputs. Option BG includes two composite analog outputs (NTSC or PAL) that can be used to generate test patterns such as color bars, or serve as additional black burst outputs. Option SDI adds two fully independent serial digital video generator channels of two outputs each. Each channel can be configured to any standard SD or HD-SDI format and frame rate. The selected test pattern can be generated on both outputs per channel, or one output can generate digital black. Option 3G extends the functionality of the SDI test signal outputs by adding 3 Gb/s SDI formats. A wide variety of standard test patterns are included, such as color bars, convergence grid, step scales, ramps, multiburst, SDI pathological test matrix and a real-time programmable zone plate generator. Bitmap images can be downloaded to the SPG8000’s flash memory for arbitrary user-defined test patterns. ID text, burn-in time code, circle, and color logo overlays can be added to any test pattern, and several ancillary data packet types, including ancillary time code and user-defined packets, can be inserted into the SDI output signal.
Audio Reference Signals
Several audio reference signals are available on the SPG8000. The base configuration includes a 48 kHz word clock output, and option AG adds five AES/EBU output pairs. One pair is dedicated to a Digital Audio Reference Signal (DARS) output, and the other four pairs are used for test tone generation, with independent tone frequency and amplitude settings for each of the 8 channels. Audio tone generation is also included with the SDI option, as embedded audio on each of the SDI outputs.
Remote Access
The SPG8000 includes a 10/100/1000BASE-T Ethernet interface for remote access to the instrument. A web-based user interface can be used
for all configuration settings and for monitoring system status. Alarm and key status information is also available via Simple Network Management Protocol (SNMP) messaging, enabling easy integration with network management systems. Remote control and alarm reporting is also available via a general purpose interface (GPI). The SPG8000 has a front-panel USB port that can be used to backup and restore presets and other user data, and to perform system firmware upgrades.
Optional Backup Power Supply
For mission-critical applications, the SPG8000 can be configured with a second power supply module. Under normal operation, the designated
backup supply is seldom used, ensuring that it has maximum remaining life feature, should the primary supply fail. The backup supply is load-tested once each day to verify that it can serve as the primary supply if necessary. The usage time of each supply is logged as “temperature-weighted hours”, a metric that best estimates the calculated life of the supply. A front-panel LED will indicate when the supply is nearing its end-of-life. If the primary supply is interrupted for any reason, the system will switch to the backup without any disruption to system operation. Power supply modules are hot-swappable for easy replacement, and feature a locking mechanism to prevent the power cable from accidental disconnection.
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