AJA HA5-12G Operating instructions

HA5-12G Mini-Converter
HDMI 2.0 to 12G SDI
Version 1.3
Published June 8, 2020
Installation and Operation Guide

HA5-12G Mini-Converter v1.3 2 www.aja.com
Notices
Trademarks
AJA® and Because it matters.® are registered trademarks of AJA Video Systems, Inc.
for use with most AJA products. AJA™ is a trademark of AJA Video Systems, Inc. for
use with recorder, router, software and camera products. Because it matters.™ is a
trademark of AJA Video Systems, Inc. for use with camera products.
Corvid Ultra®, lo®, Ki Pro®, KONA®, KUMO®, ROI® and T-Tap® are registered trademarks of
AJA Video Systems, Inc.
AJA Control Room™, KiStor™, Science of the Beautiful™, TruScale™, V2Analog™ and
V2Digital™ are trademarks of AJA Video Systems, Inc.
All other trademarks are the property of their respective owners.
Copyright
Copyright © 2020 AJA Video Systems, Inc. All rights reserved. All information in
this manual is subject to change without notice. No part of the document may be
reproduced or transmitted in any form, or by any means, electronic or mechanical,
including photocopying or recording, without the express written permission of AJA
Video Systems, Inc.
Contacting AJA Support
When calling for support, have all information at hand prior to calling. To contact AJA
for sales or support, use any of the following methods:
Telephone [phone]
FAX [phone]
Web https://www.aja.com
Support Email suppor[email protected]
Sales Email [email protected]

HA5-12G Mini-Converter v1.3 3 www.aja.com
Contents
Notices . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .2
Trademarks . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2
Copyright . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2
Contacting AJA Support . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2
Chapter 1 – Introduction . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .4
Overview. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .4
Default Operation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4
AJA Mini-Cong Control . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4
Features . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5
Block Diagram . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5
I/O Connections . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6
Installation. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .6
Chapter 2 – Operation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .7
USB Control and Setup—Using AJA Mini-Cong . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7
Acquiring AJA Mini-Cong . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7
Installing AJA Mini-Cong . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7
Running AJA Mini-Cong. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .9
Operating AJA Mini-Cong . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10
Tabbed Screens . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11
Input Tab Screen . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11
Output Tab Screen. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12
HDR Tab Screen . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14
Audio Tab Screen . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 16
Update Tab Screen. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 17
Software Update Procedure . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 18
Info Tab Screen . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 18
Appendix A – Specications . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 19
HA5-12G Family Tech Specs . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 19
Appendix B – Safety and Compliance . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 25
Warranty and Liability Information . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .33
Limited Warranty on Hardware. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 33
Limitation of Liability . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 33
Governing Law and Language; Your Rights . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 33
Index. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .35

HA5-12G Mini-Converter v1.3 4 www.aja.com
Chapter 1 – Introduction
Overview
AJA’s HA5-12G allows users to convert an HDMI 2.0 input to two 12G-SDI single
link outputs. It includes two SDI DA outputs and transmits 12G-SDI on each SDI
link, reducing cable runs when transporting 4K/UltraHD SDI. HA5-12G supports
up to 8-Channels of audio from the HDMI source or 2-Channel analog audio
(RCA), with eight or two channels of digital embedded audio on 12G-SDI.
A Fiber SFP equipped HA5-12G-T or HA5-12G-T-ST single channel trasmitter model
is available, which extends HDMI source 4K signals over long distances (10 km
Single Mode). The fiber output is in addition to the two coax outputs, for a total of
three 12G-SDI outputs.
Default Operation
The HA5-12G auto configures to the connected HDMI input (no dipswitch settings
required). The auto-configure function identifies the connected input and
outputs the equivalent SDI format.
AJA Mini-Config Control
AJA’s Mini-Config application is available for firmware updates and advanced
configuration. Configuration set via Mini-Config is stored in the HA5-12G unit
through subsequent power cycles.

HA5-12G Mini-Converter v1.3 5 www.aja.com
Features
• Converts HDMI 2.0 to 12G-SDI, up to 4K 60p (see "Appendix A – Specications"
on page 19 for a complete list of supported inputs).
• Supports up to 60p input at 4:4:4/4:2:2/4:2:0
• Supports 2SI (two sample interleave) 4K/UltraHD SDI mapping
• Two 12G-SDI coax outputs
• Embedded audio can be selected from the HDMI or Analog audio inputs
• Fiber SFP model, HA5-12G-T, includes a 12G-SDI single mode ber output
• Fiber SFP model, HA5-12G-T-ST, includes a 12G-SDI single mode ber output
• Congure via USB port and supplied Mini-Cong software
• Uses 5-16VDC power. The included DWP-U-R1 universal power supply is 5VDC.
• Five year warranty
Block Diagram
Figure 1. HA5-12G/HA5-12G-T Converter, Simplified Block Diagram
12G
SDI Out 1
12G
SDI Out 2
SDI
XMIT
Sample
Rate
Converter
12G Fiber Out
(HA5-12G-T or
HA5-12G-T-ST)
Video
Audio
Audio
HDMI v2.0
Input with
Embedded
Audio
USB Bus
(connect to
PC or Mac)
Control
HDMI v2.0
RCVR
Video
Processing
Audio
Disembed
SDI
XMIT
SDI
XMIT
Video
A/D
Converter
Analog
Audio In 2
(RCA)
Analog
Audio In 1
(RCA)
Embed
Audio

HA5-12G Mini-Converter v1.3 6 www.aja.com
I/O Connections
Figure 2. HA5-12G/HA5-12G-T Converter Connections
HDMI
Input
Connector
USB
Port
DC Power
Input
SDI
Ouput 1
Fiber Output
(HA5-12G-T or
HA5-12G-T-ST
models only)
Analog Audio
Inputs
(2 RCA)
Power LED
Lock LED
SDI
Ouput 2
NOTE: The LOCK LED adjacent to the HDMI input connector indicates by color whether
the HDMI input circuit is locked, and if so, the SDI output data rate. Off is no
signal, Green is SD-SDI, Red is HD-SDI, Amber is 3G-SDI, Purple is 6G-SDI, and Blue
is 12G-SDI.
Installation
Typically, HA5-12G installation consists of the following steps:
1. Ensure the HA5-12G is disconnected from power.
2. Connect video equipment to the converter BNCs and HDMI connector.
3. Apply power to the converter (AJA power supply included).
4. The HA5-12G will now run using the default factory settings. If you wish to
alter the factory settings, you’ll need to:
• Install the AJA Mini-Cong software on your computer
• Attach the HA5-12G via USB
• Make your changes using AJA Mini-Cong setup screens.
This process is detailed in "USB Control and Setup—Using AJA Mini-Config" on page
7.
NOTE: The HA5-12G packs an unprecedented feature set into a mini converter box.
As a result, the unit uses approximately 12 watts of power. It will be very warm
to the touch, which is normal. The unit is engineered to operate across the full
temperature range, from 0 to 40 degrees C.
NOTE: For highest reliability, the mini converter relies on convection cooling instead
of using a built-in fan. Therefore, when installing the unit, mount in a location
where it has access to air for proper cooling. Do not stack the HA5-12G with other
mini converters.

HA5-12G Mini-Converter v1.3 7 www.aja.com
Chapter 2 – Operation
USB Control and Setup—Using AJA Mini-Config
Your AJA Mini-Converter can be used right out of the box for some applications
since it is designed to recognize inputs and perform standard actions
automatically by default. However, to use its full capability, you must use AJA’s
Mini-Config software application for PCs and Macs. This same application can be
used to update to new Mini-Converter software released by AJA.
Acquiring AJA Mini-Config
AJA’s Mini-Config application is available for download from the AJA website.
To download the latest AJA Mini-Config package, which includes the AJA Mini-
Config application, Mini-Converter firmware, and documentation, go to:
https://www.aja.com/en/products/mini-converters/mini-config-software
Select either the Windows or Mac icon to download the desired version.
Mini-Converter Documentation
Included with the AJA Mini-Config package is a complete set of documentation
for all Mini-Converters supported by AJA Mini-Config. A .PDF of the Installation
and Operation Guide for the currently connected Mini-Converter can be accessed
from the AJA Mini-Config UI via the Help/Manual drop-down menu.
Documentation for all AJA Mini-Converters that use AJA Mini-Config can also
be accessed directly in the AJA Mini-Config download package Documentation
folder, and via the Documentation icon available on the Mac installer.
Documentation (and firmware) included with the AJA Mini-Config application
are the versions available at the time of distribution. However, Mini-Converter
software, firmware and documentation are updated regularly, so newer versions
may exist.
To download the latest documentation for an individual Mini-Converter, go to:
https://www.aja.com/en/category/mini-converters
and navigate to the Support webpage of that Mini-Converter.
Installing AJA Mini-Config
PC Installation
To install AJA Mini-Config on a Windows PC:
1. Download the application from the AJA website (select the Windows icon
on the AJA Mini-Cong Support webpage).
2. Open the AJA_MiniCong.zip le
3. Double-click on the MiniInstaller.msi le.
4. A Setup Wizard will guide you through the installation.

HA5-12G Mini-Converter v1.3 8 www.aja.com
Figure 3. AJA Mini-Config PC Setup Wizard
5. Click Next to begin. Answer the questions in the subsequent dialogues.
When nished, an AJA Mini-Cong shortcut will be installed on the desktop,
and you will be able to locate the AJA Mini-Cong application in the AJA
folder in the Programs listing.
NOTE: If the AJA Mini-Config application already exists on the PC, a different Setup
Wizard appears.
Figure 4. AJA Mini-Config Setup Wizard, Reinstallation
With this screen you can Repair (reinstall) or Remove (uninstall) AJA Mini-Config
on the PC.
Mac Installation
To install the application on a Mac:
NOTE: Macintosh computers must be Intel-based (G5, G4 and earlier models will not
work with AJA Mini-Config).
1. Download the application from the AJA website (select the Apple icon on
the AJA Mini-Cong Support webpage).
2. Open the AJA_MiniCong folder.
3. Double-click on the AJAMiniCong.dmg le.

HA5-12G Mini-Converter v1.3 9 www.aja.com
4. Answer the prompt and a utility program will be launched.
Figure 5. AJA Mini-Config Mac Installer
5. To complete the installation drag the “MiniCong.app” icon to the
Applications folder.
Running AJA Mini-Config
Connect the Mini-Converter to the PC or Mac via the supplied USB cable. Connect
the external power supply (supplied) to the Mini-Converter.
PC Startup
To run AJA Mini-Config on a PC, double-click on the AJA Mini-Config icon on your
desktop, or open the AJA folder in the program list and click on the AJA Mini-
Config application located inside the AJA Mini-Config folder.
Mac Startup
To run AJA Mini-Config on a Mac, open the Applications folder and locate the AJA
Mini-Config application. Double-click the application to launch it.
Saving Setups
A File drop down menu on the AJA Mini-Config application bar allows you to
save the current state of the Mini-Converter to a preset file for later recall.

HA5-12G Mini-Converter v1.3 10 www.aja.com
Using this feature you can set up the converter for different applications, storing
each configuration (Save Preset As...) with a unique name for easy recall (Open
Preset...).
A Revert to Factory Settings menu item similarly allows you to change the
settings back to AJA’s factory defaults.
Operating AJA Mini-Config
The AJA Mini-Config application provides a graphic interface for viewing settings
and updating software. It consists of an information area at the top that shows
the available Mini-Converters attached to the computer via USB, with a graphical
rendering of the selected Mini-Converter showing all the connectors and their
current state.
Colored text next to the connectors indicates the signal type and what the Mini-
Converter is doing:
• Blue text indicates the values automatically selected
• Black text indicates values that you have manually selected
• Red text indicates the Mini-Converter is not detecting a signal, or cannot
operate with the current user settings.
NOTE: Even if no output device is detected, the SDI connector text still shows the signal it
is outputting.
Screens are virtually the same on both PC and Mac, with subtle differences that
reflect the general look of the platform environment.
Figure 6. Example AJA Mini-Config Screen
Select a USB port
and an attached
Mini-Converter
(name in
parentheses)
Each connector
is labeled with
the output
signal format
Firmware version Serial Number
Tabbed screens
Message
Showing
Status
Each connector
is labeled with
the currently
detected input
signal.
Status
User congurable
parameters