DVS Clipster Installation instructions

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Video Workstation
CLIPSTER
Hardware Guide

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CLIPSTER Hardware Guide
Introduction
Overview
Installation
Operation
Maintenance
Appendix
Index

Hardware Guide Version 1.3 for CLIPSTER
Copyright © 2004 by DVS Digital Video Systems GmbH, Hanover. All rights reserved.
The manuals as well as the soft- and/or hardware described here and all their constituent parts
are protected by copyright. Without the express permission of DVS Digital Video Systems GmbH
any form of use which goes beyond the narrow bounds prescribed by copyright legislation is pro-
hibited and liable to prosecution.
This particularly applies to duplication, copying, translation, processing, evaluation, publishing,
and storing and/or processing in an electronic system.
Specifications and data may change without notice. We offer no guarantee that this documenta-
tion is correct and/or complete. In no event shall DVS Digital Video Systems GmbH be liable for
any damages whatsoever (including without limitation any special, indirect, or consequential
damages, and damages resulting from loss of use, data, or profits, or business interruption) aris-
ing out of the use of or inability to use the hardware, software and/or manual materials.
Those parts of this documentation that describe optional software or hardware features usually
contain a corresponding note. Anyway, a lack of this note does not mean any commitment from
DVS GmbH.
CLIPSTER is a registered trademark of DVS Digital Video Systems GmbH. Windows is a regis-
tered trademark or trademark of Microsoft Corporation in the United States and/or other coun-
tries.
Any other product names mentioned in this documentation may be trademarks or registered
trademarks of their respective owners and as such are subject to the usual statutory provisions.

Headquarters:
Support:
For the Americas:
Support:
DVS Digital Video Systems GmbH
Krepenstr. 8
30165 Hannover
GERMANY
Phone: [phone]
Fax: [phone]
E-mail: [email protected]
Internet: http://www.dvs.de
Phone: [phone]
Fax: [phone]
E-mail: [e-mail]
U.S. Headquarters:
DVS Digital Video, Inc.
300 East Magnolia Boulevard, Suite 102
Burbank, CA 91502
USA
Phone: [phone]
Fax: [phone]
E-mail: [email protected]
Internet: http://www.dvsus.com
E-mail: [email protected]

Registration Form
Dear customer,
this product was developed and tested thoroughly. Unfortu-
nately, the possibility of problems and errors can never be
ruled out. To support us in helping you as fast as possible if
such a case occurs, please fill in this registration form and
send or fax it to the address on the right.
You may also use our online registration form which can be accessed from the following
internet page: http://www.dvs.de/english/support/support.html
Customer
Name:
Company:
Contact:
Address:
Phone:
Fax:
Vendor:
CLIPSTER
Serial No.:
Remarks:
Connected devices
(Brand and type of edit controller, VTR, color grading system, etc.)
PLEASE SEND TO:
DVS GmbH
Krepenstr. 8
30165 Hannover
GERMANY
Fax: [phone]

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Contents
1Introduction ............................................................................. 1-1
1.1 Overview.............................................................................. 1-2
1.2 Target Group........................................................................ 1-3
1.3 Conventions Used in this User Guide.................................. 1-3
1.4 Safety Instructions ............................................................... 1-4
1.5 Important Notes ................................................................... 1-6
1.6 Scope of Delivery ................................................................ 1-8
2Overview ................................................................................... 2-1
2.1 Overview of Front ................................................................ 2-2
2.1.1 The Faceplate ............................................................ 2-2
2.1.2 The Front Panel ......................................................... 2-4
2.2 Overview of Rear................................................................. 2-5
2.2.1 Connector Naming Conventions .................................. 2-5
2.2.2 Overall Overview of the Rear....................................... 2-6
2.2.3 Connector Panel 1...................................................... 2-8
2.2.4 Slot Panel Connectors (1 Chassis Delivery)................ 2-10
2.2.5 Slot Panel Connectors (2 Chassis Delivery)................ 2-13
2.2.6 Connector Panel 2.................................................... 2-15
2.2.7 Connector Panel 3.................................................... 2-16
3Installation................................................................................ 3-1
4Operation .................................................................................. 4-1
4.1 Basic Operation................................................................... 4-2
4.1.1 Starting the System .................................................... 4-2
4.1.2 Shutting Down the System .......................................... 4-3

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CLIPSTER Hardware Guide
4.2 Operational Items ................................................................ 4-5
4.2.1 Faceplate................................................................... 4-5
4.2.2 DVD-ROM ................................................................. 4-6
4.2.3 Controls ..................................................................... 4-7
5Maintenance............................................................................. 5-1
5.1 Hard Disk Maintenance ....................................................... 5-2
5.1.1 How to Act when a Hard Disk Fails .............................. 5-2
5.1.2 Notes on Formatting the Video Hard Disks.................... 5-6
5.2 Power Supply Unit Maintenance ......................................... 5-7
AAppendix...................................................................................A-1
A.1 Troubleshooting ...................................................................A-2
A.2 Technical Data .....................................................................A-3
A.3 Hardware Specifications ......................................................A-4
A.4 Video Raster ........................................................................A-6
A.5 Signal In- and Outputs.........................................................A-8
A.6 Internal Wiring from Video Board to Outputs .....................A-13
A.7 Packing Instructions ..........................................................A-14
IIndex ............................................................................................ I-1

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Introduction 1
This documentation describes how to use CLIPSTER, the HD real-time
editing system of DVS. CLIPSTER is a powerful high definition video
workstation with enormous flexibility, especially designed to meet the
demands of modern post production houses. Based on DVS' quality
hardware, CLIPSTER works with uncompressed material in any reso-
lution up to 2K in RGB 10 bit.
The video workstation stores the material in its native resolution and
format, making pre-conversion or compression unnecessary. Clips of
any resolution, color space or bit depth can be mixed on the timeline
at will. The output resolution is variable as well and throughout the en-
tire workflow the quality of the high-resolution footage is maintained.
Furthermore, up to 16 different channels of audio can be in- or output
by CLIPSTER and all audio data can be accessed and processed with
the software as easily as the video material in up to 99 audio tracks.
CLIPSTER provides enough intrinsic power to accept material from
cameras, telecines or VTRs at any data rate. Uncompressed HD and
2K data are input via the standard dual link HD-SDI interface. In a stu-
dio environment, CLIPSTER connects to HD cameras, enabling cap-
ture of footage and immediate viewing and editing. When integrated
into the high-end post workflow, CLIPSTER handles real-time telecine
transfer and all subsequent editing of the transferred material.
The CLIPSTER hardware can be delivered with various storage capac-
ities from 800 GB up to 3200 GB. An upgrade of CLIPSTER from a
smaller storage capacity to a higher one is available as an optional
feature.

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CLIPSTER Hardware Guide
1.1 Overview
This guide informs you about the installation of the CLIPSTER hard-
ware, its operation as well as all connection possibilities.
The chapters contain the following information:
Chapter 1 Begins with a short introduction to CLIPSTER,
followed by a note regarding the audience this
manual is written for and an explanation of the
conventions used in this manual. Further-
more, it provides safety instructions that you
must adhere to, some important notes that
you should read, and the scope of delivery for
CLIPSTER.
Chapter 2 This chapter provides a front and a rear over-
view of the video workstation detailing all
items, connectors and interfaces. Additionally,
it contains some interesting information about
special DVS naming conventions of the con-
nectors.
Chapter 3 Describes the hardware installation of CLIP-
STER.
Chapter 4 Explains how to operate CLIPSTER.
Chapter 5 Details maintenance work in case of a hard
disk or power supply unit failure. In addition,
some notes are provided necessary for a for-
matting of the video hard disks.
Appendix Provides technical details and general infor-
mation about CLIPSTER. Furthermore, it gives
hints how to resolve irregularities during oper-
ation.
Index This chapter facilitates the search for specific
terms.

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Introduction
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1.2 Target Group
To use this manual you should have experience in handling video and
computer equipment. Additionally, to use CLIPSTER in connection with
other equipment, e.g. a camera or a VTR, you should know how to
handle this equipment.
1.3 Conventions Used in this User Guide
The following typographical conventions will be used in this docu-
mentation:
– Texts preceded by this symbol are parts of a list.
!Texts preceded by this symbol are also parts of a list, i.e. lists of a
second level.
"Texts preceded by this symbol describe activities that you must
perform in the order indicated.
Texts preceded by this symbol are general notes intended to
facilitate work and help avoid errors.
You must pay particular attention to text that follows this
symbol to avoid errors and possible resulting damages
thereof.
Texts following this symbol you must pay particular at-
tention to to avoid dangers and personal injuries.
“ ” Texts enclosed by quotation marks are references to other
manuals, guides, chapters, or sections.

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CLIPSTER Hardware Guide
1.4 Safety Instructions
To use CLIPSTER correctly please heed the following:
General
CLIPSTER has been built according to the applying safety regulations.
To minimize the possibility of a faulty operation of the device all man-
uals and guides must be available at all times at the operation site.
Before installing and/or using CLIPSTER the manuals and guides de-
livered with it must be read and observed.
– Use CLIPSTER only in apparent good technical order.
–TheCLIPSTER hardware works with voltages that can be hazard-
ous to your health. Never work on the system or access its interior
with the power cable(s) being plugged in. Make sure the power
supply is disconnected from the components you are working on.
– Computer hardware contains components that are very sensitive
to changing voltages. Connecting or disconnecting CLIPSTER to or
from peripheral hardware while any of them is switched on may
damage the hardware. Switch off all peripheral hardware before
connecting or disconnecting anything.
– Computer hardware contains components that are sensitive to
electrostatic discharge. If you touch them without precautionary
measures, they can be destroyed. Use a wrist strap connected to
ground when accessing electronic parts and take care of ground-
ing the video system. Avoid touching the internal components of
CLIPSTER whenever possible.
– Use CLIPSTER only in compliance with the technical data laid out
in section “Technical Data” on page A-3.
– If fluids or solid objects get inside the casing, CLIPSTER must be
disconnected from the power supply immediately. Before using
CLIPSTER again, it has to be checked by authorized service per-
sonnel.
– Only use a damp tissue without any cleaning agents to clean the
casing.
Please read the following safety instructions very carefully
before attempting any installation and/or performing any
work on CLIPSTER.
If CLIPSTER is not used in compliance with the safety instruc-
tions, the warranty and all resulting liability claims will be
void.

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Introduction
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–CLIPSTER may not be misused, abused, physically damaged,
neglected, exposed to fire, water or excessive changes in the cli-
mate or temperature, or operated outside maximum rating.
– Do not perform any changes or extensions to CLIPSTER whatso-
ever.
Transportation
CLIPSTER is a very sensitive device. Especially the hard disks of the
system must be handled with greatest care. Therefore, observe in
case of transportation:
– Handle CLIPSTER with great care.
– Always use the original packing or a similar structured packing for
transportation as detailed in section “Packing Instructions” on
page A-14.
– Avoid shocks or vibrations during transport. For longer distances
it is recommended to use a lifting truck.
– Keep CLIPSTER as a transportation good dry.
– In the warranty period you have to keep the original packing and
use it in case of transportation.
Environmental Conditions
For error-free working and a long service life, CLIPSTER needs some
basic environmental conditions:
– Do not expose CLIPSTER to sources of heat, such as direct sun-
light or a radiator.
– Avoid areas with high humidity or dust. Best operating conditions
are given in an air-conditioned site.
– Do not expose CLIPSTER to strong electric or magnetic fields.
– Avoid areas where CLIPSTER will be subject to vibrations or
shocks.

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CLIPSTER Hardware Guide
1.5 Important Notes
The following provides information about warranty and some general
notes.
Warranty Information
This product is warranted to be free of defects in materials and work-
manship for a period of one year from the date of purchase. DVS ex-
tends this Limited Warranty to the original purchaser.
In the event of a defect or failure to confirm to this Limited Warranty,
DVS will repair or replace the product without charge. In order to
make a claim under this Limited Warranty, the purchaser must notify
DVS or their representative in writing of the product failure. In this
Limited Warranty the customer must upon DVS’ request, return the
product to the place of purchase or send the defective device to a giv-
en address for the necessary repairs to be performed. In the warranty
period the customer must keep the original packing and pack the
DVS product in it in case of a product return. If the customer is not
satisfied with the repair, DVS will have the option to either attempt a
further repair, exchange the product, or refund the purchase price.
This warranty does not cover:
– Products not developed by DVS GmbH.
– Products which have been subject to misuse, abuse, accident,
physical damage, neglect, exposure to fire, water or excessive
changes in the climate or temperature, or operation outside maxi-
mum rating.
– Products on which warranty stickers or product serial numbers
have been removed, altered or rendered illegible.
– The cost of installations, removal, transportation, or reinstallation.
– Costs for transportation damages.
– Damages caused to any other items.
General Notes
You have to keep the original packing and use it in case of
transportation. Otherwise this warranty will be void.
CLIPSTER is delivered to you fully preconfigured and opti-
mized for real-time in- and output of uncompressed video
streams. Changing any of the settings (for example, the
hardware, software and/or BIOS settings) may lead to a loss
of performance or may even render the system unusable.
Re-configuring the video system anew is in most cases a
lengthy procedure. Do not change any of the settings unless
you are absolutely sure of what you are doing and what the
results would be.

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The video hard disks of CLIPSTER are arranged as a stripe
set. If one hard disk fails, your data will be unrecoverable.
Therefore, it is strongly recommended to perform backups
of your video data at regular intervals.
Only use the designated video drive (disk stripe set) to store
video and audio data. Other storage locations will be far too
slow for real-time operation.
Leave about 15% of the overall video hard disk capacity for
real-time performance reasons empty of data.
A DVS CineReel connected to CLIPSTER as a storage for vid-
eo material will be too slow for editing purposes in real time
(e.g. transitions). It is recommended to copy the material to
the video hard disk array of CLIPSTER before processing.

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CLIPSTER Hardware Guide
1.6 Scope of Delivery
The following lists the items that come with CLIPSTER:
CLIPSTER
One Chassis Delivery (4 U)
– 1 × 19" rack-mount casing (4 height units)
– 1 × graphic tablet with pen
– 1 × mouse
– 1 × keyboard
– 1 × power supply cable 110 V
– 1 × power supply cable 230 V
– 2 × DB25-to-8-XLR adapter for audio
– Documentation:
!CLIPSTER Manual (CLIPSTER Hardware, CLIPSTER Software)
–CD-ROMs:
!CLIPSTER Software
!Operating System
!Recovery CD
CLIPSTER
Two Chassis Delivery (2 × 4 U)
–CLIPSTER One Chassis Delivery as detailed above
Additionally delivered:
– 1 × 19" rack-mount casing (4 U)
– 1 × power supply cable 110 V
– 1 × power supply cable 230 V
–2×SCSIcables
Option: CLIPSTER Rack-Mount Kit
Needed to mount one of the CLIPSTER casings into a 19" rack
–2×rails
–Screws
If any of these items are missing or damaged, contact your
local vendor or DVS immediately.

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Overview 2
This chapter provides a detailed overview of the CLIPSTER hardware.
The video workstation will be shown in a front and a rear view and all
its parts and connectors will be listed. For explanatory reasons the
section about the rear of CLIPSTER also contains some information
about special naming conventions of the connectors.
CLIPSTER delivered with 2 chassis:
Some types of CLIPSTER are delivered with two casings due to tech-
nical reasons. One of the casings contains the main video system
with system and video hard disks and the computer equipment (in
the following called ’main system’). The second casing contains oth-
er video hard disks as well as additional controllers (in the following
called ’disk array’). The specialities of these setups will be detailed
in each section whenever necessary.

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CLIPSTER Hardware Guide
2.1 Overview of Front
This section provides an overview of the front of CLIPSTER. The oper-
able front panel is covered by a faceplate which can be removed.
Therefore, the faceplate will be described first followed by an over-
view of the operable front panel of CLIPSTER.
2.1.1 The Faceplate
The operable front panel is covered by a faceplate that has to be re-
moved to gain access, for example, to the video disks. The following
figure shows an overview of the faceplate:
Figure 2-1: Overview of faceplate
The faceplate is equipped with LEDs to monitor the status of the in-
ternal video hard disks. The LEDs of the faceplate show the activity
of the internal video hard disks.
To access the operable front panel of the video workstation, you have
to remove the faceplate by simply pulling it off towards the front:
To supply the LEDs of the faceplate with power, the faceplate
and the chassis of the video workstation are interconnected
via a plug. This plug is located at the bottom right-hand side
of the video system’s front (see section “The Front Panel” on
page 2-4). When you pull off the faceplate, the connection is
automatically severed and it is restored again once you put
the faceplate back in its place.
faceplate LEDs