Aritech ATA-4/9 CSqX User manual

Installation and Operation Manual
0150-0147 Revision B
ATA-4/9 CSqX
and
ATA-4/9 MSqX
4/9 CHANNEL SIMPLEX
VIDEO MULTIPLEXERS
INSTALLATION AND OPERATION
MANUAL
PGM
VEXT
1234
PGM
VEXT
123456789

Installation and Operation Manual
0150-0147 ii Revision B
WARNING!
The lightning flash with the arrowhead symbol,
within an equilateral triangle, is intended to alert
the user to the presence of uninsulated
"dangerous voltage" within the products enclosure
that maybe of sufficient magnitude to constitute a
risk of electric shock to persons.
!
The exclamation point, within an equilateral
triangle, is intended to alert the user to the
presence of important operating and maintenance
(servicing) instructions in the literature
accompanying the product.
CAUTION!
To prevent electric shock do not remove cover. No
user serviceable components inside. Refer
servicing to qualified service personnel. !
CAUTION! Lithium Battery
Danger of explosion if battery is
incorrectly replaced. Replace only
with the same or equivalent type
recommended by the manufacturer.
ATTENTION
This product contains a lithium battery. This
battery may be recyclable. It may be illegal to
dispose of this battery improperly under local,
state, or federal laws. Check with your local
waste management officials for disposal and
recycling options.
CAUTION!
Electrostatic-Sensitive Device!
Use proper CMOS and MOSFET handling precautions, including approved
grounded wrists straps, etc., to avoid damage to this unit or its internal
components, from electric discharge.
WARNING!
This equipment generates, uses and can radiate radio frequency energy and if not installed and used in
accordance with the instructions in this manual, may cause interference to radio communications. It
has been tested and found to comply with the limits for a Class A computing device pursuant to subpart
J of part 15 of FCC rules which are designed to provide reasonable protection against such
interference when operated in a commercial environment. This equipment has also been tested and
found to comply with the requirements for a CE Class A device and TUV safety standards.
Operation of this equipment in a residential area may cause interference, in which case the user is a
required to take all measures that are necessary, at the user's expense, to correct the interference.

Installation and Operation Manual
Revision B iii 0150-0147
IMPORTANT INFORMATION
Software and/or firmware is furnished to the purchaser under a license for use on a single system.
Software and/or firmware included with this equipment are the sole proprietary property of, confidential
to, and copyrighted by Aritech, (EUROPE AND AFRICA), EXCELSIORLANN, 28, B-1930 zAVENTEM,
BELGIUM. The software/firmware are not to be copied or disclosed in any manner without the
express written consent of Aritech.
NOTE: All information and specifications furnished by Aritech are believed to be accurate and
reliable. No responsibility is assumed by Aritech for neither its use nor any infringements
of rights of third parties that may result from its use. No license is granted by implication or
otherwise under any patent or patent rights of Aritech.
The ATA™brand name and product model numbers are the property of Aritech.


COPYRIGHT, 2000: The contents of this manual may not be copied or reproduced in any manner or
form without the prior written consent of Aritech.

Installation and Operation Manual
0150-0147 iv Revision B
CONTENTS
1 INSTALLATION AND GENERAL INFORMATION............................ 1-1
1.1 PRODUCT DESCRIPTION & FEATURES ............................................... 1-1
1.2 UNPACKING .................................................................................... 1-2
1.3 INSTALLATION ENVIRONMENT ........................................................... 1-3
1.4 THE FRONT PANEL .......................................................................... 1-3
1.5 THE REAR PANEL............................................................................ 1-4
1.6 POWER SUPPLY .............................................................................. 1-8
1.7 POWER-UP AND TESTING................................................................. 1-9
2 OPERATING MODES AND CAPABILITIES ..................................... 2-1
2.1 PRINCIPAL OPERATING MODES......................................................... 2-1
2.2 LIVE MODE ..................................................................................... 2-1
2.3 RECORD MODE ............................................................................... 2-2
2.4 PLAY MODE .................................................................................... 2-3
2.5 CHANGING CAMERAS IN THE QUAD DISPLAY...................................... 2-5
2.6 ACTIVE CAMEO MODE (9-CHANNEL UNITS ONLY) ............................... 2-5
2.7 MONITOR DISPLAYS......................................................................... 2-5
2.8 AUTOLIST AND SEQUENCING............................................................ 2-6
2.9 VIDEO LOSS.................................................................................... 2-7
2.10 ADDING AND REMOVING CAMERAS ................................................... 2-7
3 SERVICE ........................................................................................... 3-1
4 TECHNICAL SPECIFICATIONS ....................................................... 4-1
5 STANDARD WARRANTY CONDITIONS.......................................... 5-1

Installation and Operation Manual
Revision B 1-1 0150-0147
1 INSTALLATION AND GENERAL INFORMATION
Table 1-1. Products Described in this Manual.
MAXIMUM Number
of Cameras Color or Monochrome Model Number
Color ATA-4CSqX
4
Monochrome ATA-4MSqX
Color ATA-9CSqX
9
Monochrome ATA-9MSqX
Key to model numbers:
A T A -
①
9
②
C
③
S
④
q
⑤
X
⑥
①ATA = Aritech
②4or 9= Maximum number of cameras
③C= Color, M= Monochrome
④S= Simplex
⑤q= quick-install
⑥X= PAL/CCIR (NTSC not available)
1.1 Product Description & Features
The Aritech ATA-4/9 CSqX/MSqX range is a family of economical, high quality, simplex multiplexers.
The family is made up of four models, either color or monochrome, with either 4 or 9 video inputs.
Available in PAL/CCIR format.
A key feature of the ATA-4/9 CSqX/MSqX is its simplicity. This results in quick and easy installation,
and ease of use. The unit automatically senses which camera inputs are connected and then sets up
the record list and sequence lists automatically.
The ATA-4/9 CSqX/MSqX can also automatically synchronise its multiplexed output to the VCR’s
record speed, even if the VCR changes speeds. This ensures that the multiplexer’s output speed will
always be correct and need not be programmed by the user.
This is accomplished by connecting the VCR’s VEXT switch pulse output to the unit.

Installation and Operation Manual
0150-0147 1-2 Revision B
The ATA-4/9 CSqX/MSqX offers high resolution recording of all connected cameras. Its digital video
output conforms to CCIR-601 digital broadcast standards. The color models will automatically process
monochrome inputs, without any additional user setup.
While the unit is recording multiplexed video to the VCR, the user can view any camera full-screen, or
the display can be sequenced with a default sequence list made up of all connected cameras.
The user can also quickly create custom sequence lists using Aritech’s unique AutoListfeature
(patent pending). The customised AutoListsequence can show the cameras in any order, with
different dwell times set for each camera.
During playback of recorded images, the user can select a quad display (or a 3x3 9-way display on 9-
channel units), or a camera to view fullscreen, or the cameras can be sequenced in fullscreen. The
playback images can be frozen at any time.
The user can also view the actual multiplexed signals which are being sent by the unit to the VCR (or
which are being sent to the unit from the VCR) so that correct recording and operation of the VCR, and
the multiplexer can be easily verified.
Unlike many of the more expensive multiplexers, the Aritech ATA-4/9 CSqX/MSqX can even decode
video which is played back at time-lapse VCR speeds, such as 24-hour mode. This enables the user
to view motion at real-time speeds during playback.
The user can even pause the VCR and single step through recorded images while the ATA-4/9
CSqX/MSqX continues to decode the video correctly. During this mode, video quality will remain
good. The Aritech ATA-4/9 CSqX/MSqX can also decode tapes made on Dedicated Micros
multiplexers.
The ATA-4/9 CSqX/MSqX family is part of a large range of Aritech multiplexers. Tapes recorded on
an ATA-4/9 CSqX/MSqX unit can also be played back in full-screen or multi-screen on the other
advanced Aritech multiplexers, and vice-a-versa.
At all times, front panel indicators show which mode has been selected by the user, and which camera
is currently being displayed on the monitor. The front panel LEDs also indicate any video loss on the
selected image.
On the 9-channel unit, these LEDs also indicate which cameras are being displayed in the quad
display mode.
The ATA-4/9 CSqX/MSqX is housed in an attractive and rugged desktop enclosure, with a positive
tactile feedback elastomeric keypad. It is powered from an external 12 VDC power supply, and it can
be rack-mounted using the optional rack mount kit.
1.2 Unpacking
Check the package and contents for visible damage. If any components are missing or damaged,
contact the supplier immediately. Do not attempt to use the unit. If, for any reason, the unit must be
returned, the package and contents must be shipped in the original packing box.
Package Contents
•Multiplexer unit.
•Power adapter, AC to 12 VDC (with power adapter cable).
•Installation and Operation Manual.

Installation and Operation Manual
Revision B 1-3 0150-0147
1.3 Installation Environment
•Install the multiplexer unit so that the cooling vents are not obstructed.
•Protect the unit from extreme hot or cold temperatures.
•Use an uninterruptable AC power supply (UPS).
•Do not place any weight that exceeds 35 lb. (16 kg) on top of the multiplexer.
The unit's technical specifications appear in Section 4, starting on page 4-1.
1.4 The Front Panel
The front panel controls and indicators are the same on 4-channel and 9-channel multiplexers, except
for the number of camera selection buttons.
Program/VCR
Button
Camera Select
Buttons 1-4
Freeze Button
Sequence Button Multiscreen
Button Record Button
Live
Button
Play Button
Power
Indicator
PGM
VEXT
VEXT Button
1234
Program/VCR
Button
Camera Select
Buttons 1-9
Freeze Button
Sequence Button Multiscreen
Button Record Button
Live
Button
Play Button
Power
Indicator
PGM
VEXT
VEXT Button
123456789
Figure 1-1. The Front Panel.
Upper: 4-Channel. Lower: 9-Channel.

Installation and Operation Manual
0150-0147 1-4 Revision B
1.5 The Rear Panel
The rear panel connections are the same on 4-channel and 9-channel multiplexers except the amount
of Camera BNC inputs.
Monitor output
composite, BNC
VEXT connector
Camera BNC Inputs
1 - 4 looping
center positive
VCR composite
input, BNC
VCR composite
output, BNC
Termination Switches
Cameras 1 - 4
CAM 1-4
1 2 3 4
1234
ON
OFF
12345678
VEXT
12V DC
Programming
Switches
12 Vdc power,
VEXT connector
Camera BNC Inputs
1 - 4 looping
center positive
VCR composite
input, BNC
VCR composite
output, BNC
Termination Switches
Cameras 1 - 4
Camera BNC
inputs 5 - 9
looping
CAM 1- 4
1 2 3 4
1234
ON
OFF HI-Z
75-
Ω
ΩΩ
Ω
12345678
VEXT
12V DC
5 6 7 8 9
56789
CAM 5-9
Programming
Switches
Termination Switches
Cameras 5 - 9
12 Vdc power,
Monitor output
composite, BNC
Figure 1-2. The Rear Panel Connection Overview.
Upper: 4-Channel. Lower: 9-Channel.

Installation and Operation Manual
Revision B 1-5 0150-0147
Camera Output Connections
When connecting cameras to the multiplexer, use only 75-ohm video coaxial cables and BNC
connectors. For each camera, there are two BNC jacks. Either jack can receive a camera’s signal.
This signal is looped (directly connected) to the other jack, making the camera’s signal accessible to
other equipment.
The factory default for termination switches is ON (terminated).
When looping:
•Manually set the corresponding termination switch to the OFF position (not terminated). See
Table 1-2 on page 1-7.
•Make sure that there is a 75-ohm termination at the end of the video line.
If there are fewer than 4 or 9 cameras, the unused camera jacks will be disabled automatically by the
system.
VCR Video Connections
Use a standard time lapse (composite video) VCR, and connect to it using a 75-ohm coaxial cable and
BNC connectors. Connect the multiplexer’s Record output (VCR OUT) on the rear panel to the VCR’s
input (VIDEO IN).
Connect the VCR’s output (VIDEO OUT) to the unit’s playback (VCR IN) input on the rear panel. If
available, connect any alarm contacts to the VCR (refer to the VCR’s manual) so that the VCR will
increase its recording speed during alarms.
VIDEO
IN
VIDEO
OUT
Multiplexer VCR
Composite Video VCR Connections
CAM 1-4
1234
OFF
ON HI- Z
75
12345678 56789
CAM 5-9
Figure 1-3. Typical Multiplexer-to-VCR Video Connections.
Consult the VCR manufacturer’s instructions to connect:
This multiplexer jack: Symbol: To this VCR location:
VCR OUT hVideo In
VCR IN 8Video Out
VCR Synchronisation
The use of the video external pulse (VEXT) connection is recommended for time-lapse, high-density,
and near-real-time VCRs.

Installation and Operation Manual
0150-0147 1-6 Revision B
NOTE: In this manual, real-time mode is defined as 3-hour mode.
VEXT simplifies multiplexer operation by automatically synchronising the multiplexer to the VCR. The
VEXT signal is especially useful with VCRs having dual recording speeds (alarm and normal),
because it makes the multiplexer follow alarms.
The VCR sends a VEXT to the multiplexer whenever an image is recorded. The multiplexer then
transmits the next image to Video In on the VCR. In this way, the VCR controls the multiplexer’s
recording speed. The VEXT Pulse Edge can be set to trigger on either the positive-going or negative-
going edge. See Table 1-3 on page 1-8 for setting the Record Speed.
NOTE: Do not change the VEXT Pulse Edge setting without consulting Technical Support first!
The VEXT input accepts a TTL, field-synchronised, positive, or negative pulse.
Consult the VCR manufacturer’s instructions to connect:
This multiplexer jack: To this VCR location:
VEXT input wire (red) and ground wire (black). The appropriate VCR terminals.
NOTES: Some time-lapse VCRs do not transmit a VEXT signal in real-time mode. This can still
work, but extra precautions will be required in the planning of your security system.
When the VCR switches to the alarm mode, there will be a loss of the VEXT signal from
the VCR. This will cause the multiplexer to stop outputting images for a few seconds
while it tries to determine if the recording speed of the VCR has been changed, or if the
pulse is completely lost.
If the pulse is determined to be lost, the unit will begin outputting images according to the
switch programmed settings.
To use such VCRs, select a recording speed on the multiplexer that matches the number
of images per second required by the VCR when it is in alarm. In these cases, be sure to
correctly setup VEXT in the VCR’s menus. Contact Technical Support if additional
assistance is necessary.
Monitor Connections
Use a 75-ohm coaxial cable to connect the unit's monitor output to the Monitor's IN connector. If you
are looping through the monitor, be sure to set the monitor’s termination switch to HI-Z. Also, make
sure that the last video device on the line has its termination switch set to the 75-ohm position.
Switch Settings
The tables below illustrate the possible settings for all programmable features of this unit.