360 Systems MAXX Operation Manual

Contents

360 Systems MAXX Operation Manual Manual pdf 72 page image

70 Automation ControlAutomation ControlImage Servers can be controlled by leading broadcast automation systems, instant replaypanels, video switchers, and many remote control devices. The Image Server accepts VDCP, SonyBVW and Odetics commands on three 9-pin serial connectors. To provide compatibility withsimple controllers and push buttons, the server also provides six GPI (contact closure) inputs, andsix programmable-command outputs.Remote Serial ControlThe Image Server’s three 9-pin serial control ports permit independent control of its threevideo channels. Each port can also respond to channel ID numbers that are equal to, or multiplesof, its base number. For example, channel 1 will also respond to 4, 7, 10, etc. This can be helpfulwhen an automation system needs to control a number of Image Servers at once.The server’s multiple serial ports allow simultaneous connection of an automationcontroller and a desktop editing controller. This way, one could configure an edit controller onChannel 1 for record, playout, and editing; while an automation controller on Channel 2 managesplay-to-air operations. Alternatively, a single controller could control the operation of all ImageServer channels.Controller PriorityOnly one serial controller can control a given video channel at a time In general, the firstcontroller to gain control of a video channel will have exclusive command. This preventsconflicting instructions that would cause unexpected behavior. The only exception is that thegraphic user interface can immediately take control of a channel by selecting Local mode in thatchannel’s dialog window (by deselecting Remote).External controllers are prohibited from seizing command from the GUI, the Remote modemust be checked in the channel dialog window before a remote control device can communicatewith that channel.Communication Protocol SetupImage Servers support VDCP, Sony BVW and Odetics command protocols. Set the desiredprotocol for each server serial port with the Serial Ports dialog box of the GUI, as shown in thefollowing illustration. From the main menu, select Configure, then System, then the Controltab. Select VDCP, or P2 (9-pin) for Sony BVW / Odetics.