GRASS VALLEY LDK 8300 - User manual

LDK 8300
User’s Guide
HDTV High-speed camera system
3922 496 31001 May 2008 v1.0

Declaration of Conformity
We, Grass Valley Nederland B.V., Kapittelweg 10, 4827 HG Breda, The
Netherlands, declare under our sole responsibility that this product is in
compliance with the following standards:
- EN60065 : Safety
- EN55103-1: EMC (Emission)
- EN55103-2: EMC (Immunity)
following the provisions of:
a. the Low Voltage directive 2006/95/EC
b. the EMC directive 2004/108/EC
FCC Class A Statement
This product generates, uses, and can radiate radio frequency energy and if not
installed and used in accordance with the instructions, may cause interference to
radio communications.
It has been tested and found to comply with the limits for a class A digital device
pursuant to part 15 of the FCC rules, which are designed to provide reasonable
protection against such interference when operated in a commercial environment.
Operation of this product in a residential area is likely to cause interference in
which case the user at his own expense will be required to take whatever
measures may be required to correct the interference.
Copyright
Copyright Grass Valley Nederland B.V. 2008. Copying of this document and giving
it to others, and the use or communication of the contents thereof, are forbidden
without express authority. Offenders are liable to the payment of damages. All
rights are reserved in the event of the grant of a patent or the registration of a
utility model or design. Liable to technical alterations in the course of further
development.
Trademarks
Grass Valley and Infinity are trademarks of Grass Valley, Inc. All other tradenames
referenced are service marks, trademarks, or registered trademarks of their
respective companies.
Website
Visit the Grass Valley public website to download the latest user’s guide updates
and additional information about your broadcast product:
www.thomsongrassvalley.com

LDK 8300 HDTV High-speed camera system User’s Guide (v1.0) 3
Table of contents
Chapter 1 – Introduction
1.1 Technology. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .13
1.1.1 HD sensors . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13
1.1.2 Digital processing . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13
1.1.3 Film-like characteristics . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14
1.1.4 Focus assist . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14
1.1.5 Acquisition formats . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .14
1.1.6 High speed fiber connection . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .14
1.1.7 High speed Base Station . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14
1.1.8 Flicker reduction technology . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .14
1.1.9 SuperXPander . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14
1.2 Features . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 15
1.3 Accessories . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .16
Chapter 2 – Installation
2.1 Packing/unpacking. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 17
2.2 Universal transport case . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .18
2.3 Mounting a lens . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 19
2.4 2-inch viewfinder . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 20
2.4.1 Mounting viewfinder and microphone holder . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .20
2.4.2 Positioning the viewfinder . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 21
2.5 Viewfinder accessories . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .22
2.5.1 Wide angle eyepiece . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .22
2.5.2 Left eye adapter. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 22
2.6 Mounting a microphone . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 23
2.7 Tripod adapter plate . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 24
2.8 Adjusting the shoulder pad. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 25
2.9 Attaching the adapter . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .26
Chapter 3 – Configurations
3.1 Introduction . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .27
3.2 Camera with SuperXpander . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .28
3.3 Portable camera. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 29
Chapter 4 – Location of controls
4.1 Camera head controls and connectors . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 31
4.2 LDK 5880 HD fiber adapter controls and connectors . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 33
4.3 Viewfinder controls and indicators . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 34

4 LDK 8300 HDTV High-speed camera system User’s Guide (v1.0)
Chapter 5 – Operating instructions
5.1 Using the camera. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .35
5.1.1 Switching on the power. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .35
5.1.2 Controlling the camera. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .35
5.2 System Menu . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .36
5.2.1 Entering the System menu . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .36
5.2.2 Finding your way . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .37
5.2.3 Leaving the System Menu. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .38
5.2.4 Making changes. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .38
5.2.5 Undoing changes . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .38
5.3 Assigning functions to buttons. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .39
5.3.1 Side panel . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .39
5.3.2 Front. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .39
5.3.3 Lens . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .39
5.4 Video acquisition modes. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .40
5.5 Viewfinder preferences . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .41
5.5.1 Viewfinder picture quality . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .41
5.5.2 Video level indication . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .41
5.5.3 Tally indicators . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .41
5.5.4 Viewfinder markers . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .42
5.5.5 Focussing. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .42
5.6 Lens preferences . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .43
5.6.1 Lens type . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .43
5.6.2 Auto iris . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .43
5.6.3 Extended iris . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .43
5.6.4 Precision focus. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .44
5.6.5 Lens indicators in the viewfinder . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .44
5.7 Video preferences . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .45
5.7.1 Standard settings . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .45
5.7.2 Test signal . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .46
5.7.3 Gain selection . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .46
5.7.4 Optical filter selection . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .47
5.7.5 Colour temperature selection . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .48
5.7.6 Exposure time . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .51
5.7.7 Shooting screens . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .52
5.7.8 Auto skin detail . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .53
5.7.9 Black stretch . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .54
5.8 Artificial light conditions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .55
5.9 Controls on the LDK 5880 HD fiber adapter. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .57
5.9.1 Powering the camera. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .57
5.9.2 Selecting monitoring signals . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .58
5.9.3 Using audio . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .59
5.9.4 Intercom. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .60
5.9.5 Communication . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .61
5.10 Managing files . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .62
5.10.1 Scene files . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .62
5.10.2 Operator files . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .62
5.10.3 Standard files . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .62
5.10.4 Customer standard files. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .63
5.11 User levels . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .63
5.11.1 Selecting the user level . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .63

LDK 8300 HDTV High-speed camera system User’s Guide (v1.0) 5
5.12 Access and Security . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 64
5.12.1 Camera cards. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 64
5.12.2 Access control . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 65
5.12.3 Camera card slot . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .65
Chapter 6 – Menu structure and contents
6.1 Menu structure. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 67
6.1.1 Top menu structure . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 67
6.1.2 VF menu structure . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .68
6.1.3 Lens menu structure . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .69
6.1.4 Video menu structure . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 70
6.1.5 Install menu structure . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .71
6.1.6 File menu structure . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 72
6.1.7 Security menu structure . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 73
6.1.8 Diagnostics menu structure. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 73
6.1.9 Service menu structure . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .73
6.2 Menu contents . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 74
6.2.1 VF menu . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .74
6.2.2 Lens menu. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 76
6.2.3 Video menu . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 77
6.2.4 Install menu . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 81
6.2.5 Files menu . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 85
6.2.6 Security menu . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 86
6.2.7 Diagnostics menu . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 87
6.2.8 Service menu. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 90
Chapter 7 – Connectors
7.1 Camera connectors . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 93
7.1.1 Viewfinder connector. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 94
7.1.2 Lens connector . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .94
7.1.3 VF/Mon connector . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 95
7.1.4 Front microphone connector . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .95
7.1.5 RS232 connector . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 95
7.2 Connectors on the LDK 5880 HD fiber adapter . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 96
7.2.1 VF Out / External video output connector . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .97
7.2.2 HD-SDI (B) / VF connector . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 97
7.2.3 HD-SDI (A) connector . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .97
7.2.4 Microphone 1 connector . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 98
7.2.5 Microphone 2 connector . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 98
7.2.6 Intercom headphone connector. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 98
7.2.7 Power input connector . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .99
7.2.8 Power output connector . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 99
7.2.9 Script light connector. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 99
7.2.10 Reference in / teleprompter out connector . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .100
7.2.11 Auxiliary connector . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .100
7.2.12 Tracker connector . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .101
Chapter 8 – Specifications
8.1 Specifications for LDK 8300 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 103
8.2 Specifications for LDK 5880 HD fiber adapter . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 104
8.3 Dimensions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 105

6 LDK 8300 HDTV High-speed camera system User’s Guide (v1.0)

LDK 8300 HDTV High-speed camera system User’s Guide (v1.0) 7
End-of-life product recycling
Grass Valley’s innovation and excellence in product design also extends to the programs
we’ve established to manage the recycling of our products. Grass Valley has developed a
comprehensive end-of-life product take back program for recycle or disposal of end-of-life
products. Our program meets the requirements of the European Union’s WEEE Directive and
in the United States from the Environmental Protection Agency, individual state or local
agencies.
Grass Valley’s end-of-life product take back program assures proper disposal by use of Best
Available Technology. This program accepts any Grass Valley branded equipment. Upon
request, a Certificate of Recycling or a Certificate of Destruction, depending on the ultimate
disposition of the product, can be sent to the requester.
Grass Valley will be responsible for all costs associated with recycling and disposal, including
freight, however you are responsible for the removal of the equipment from your facility and
packing the equipment ready for pickup.
For further information on the Grass Valley product take back system please contact Grass
Valley at + 800 80 80 20 20 or [phone] from most other countries. In the US and
Canada please call 800-547-8949 or 530-478-4148. Ask to be connected to the EH&S
Department. In addition, information concerning the program can be found at:
www.thomsongrassvalley.com/environment

8 LDK 8300 HDTV High-speed camera system User’s Guide (v1.0)
Important information
Read these instructions carefully and retain them for future reference.
During installation and operation of this equipment, local building safety and fire protection
standards must be observed.
Before connecting the equipment to the power supply of the installation, verify the proper
functioning of the protective earth lead.
Whenever it is likely that safe operation is impaired, the apparatus must be made inoperative
and secured against any unintended operation. The appropriate servicing authority must then
be informed. For example, safety is likely to be impaired if the apparatus fails to perform the
intended function or shows visible damage.
Any changes or modifications not expressly approved in this manual could void your authority
to operate this equipment.
Cautions and Warnings
Read and comply with the warning and caution notices that appear in the manual.
• Warnings indicate danger that requires correct procedures or practices to prevent death
or injury to personnel.
• Cautions indicate procedures or practices that should be followed to prevent damage or
destruction to equipment or property.

LDK 8300 HDTV High-speed camera system User’s Guide (v1.0) 9
Warnings
To prevent fire or shock hazard, do not expose the unit to rain or moisture. If the unit is in a
wet or damp environment, a rain cover must be used to protect it for personal safety reasons.
To avoid electrical shock, do not remove covers or panels. Refer servicing to qualified
personnel only.
In case of an emergency ensure that the power is disconnected.
Connect the product only to a power source with the specified voltage rating.
To prevent risk of overheating, ventilate the unit correctly. Do not block the hot airflow coming
from the outlet on the right side of the camera.
Precautions
To ensure continual high performance from the camera take the following precautions into
consideration:
• Do not subject the unit to severe shocks or vibration.
• Do not expose the camera to extremes of temperature.
• Do not leave the unit in direct sunlight or close to heating appliances for extended periods.
• Do not allow sunlight to shine into the viewfinder.
• Do not allow laser beams to shine into the lens as this could damage the CCD sensors.
• Avoid extreme highlights as these can cause various kinds of optical reflections.
AIRFLOW

10 LDK 8300 HDTV High-speed camera system User’s Guide (v1.0)
Fiber-optic transmission units
Laser safety statement (Europe)
Fiber-optic transmission units are classified as a "CLASS 1 Laser Product" according to EN
60825-1, Safety of Laser products. Class 1 laser products are considered safe and do not result
in biological hazard if used according to the instructions.
Laser safety statement (US)
Fiber-optic transmission units are classified as a "CLASS 1 Laser Product" according to 21CFR
1040.10 of the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) Center for Devices and Radiological
Health.
WARNING
Use of controls, adjustments or performance of procedures other than those specified herein
may result in hazardous radiation exposure.
To ensure proper use of this product, please read this instruction manual carefully and retain
for future reference. Should the unit ever require maintenance, contact an authorized service
location.
Fiber-optic cable precautions
Fiber-optic cables and connectors are easily damaged; take the following precautions into
account:
– Do not bend the cable beyond the minimum permissible bend range specified for the
cable.
– Avoid kinks in the cable.
– Avoid subjecting the cable to a high tension force (even momentarily).
– Do not twist the cable when connecting it to equipment.
– Insert connectors straight and fully into their corresponding sockets.
– In fiber-optic cable systems always put the dust caps on cable and panel connectors
immediately after disconnecting a cable. Keep the dust caps clean.
CLASS 1
LASER PRODUCT
LASER KLASSE 1
PRODUKT

LDK 8300 HDTV High-speed camera system User’s Guide (v1.0) 11
Cleaning fiber-optic connectors
WARNING
Always switch off power before cleaning the connectors.
WARNING
Never clean an optical connector attached to a fiber that is carrying light.
Particles of foreign matter on the tip of a ferrule can have a disabling effect on fiber-optic
transmission. Fiber-optic connectors need to be cleaned every time they are mated and
unmated; it is essential that fiber-optic users develop the necessary discipline to always clean
the connectors before they are mated.
Use a commerially available cleaning kit specifically designed for fiber-optic connectors and
follow the manufacturer's instructions carefully.
• The connector sections to be cleaned include the tips and sides of ferrules, the interior
walls of alignment sleeves, and the interior and exterior of connector shells.
• For plugs, the interior surfaces of alignment sleeves and the tips of ferrules are to be
cleaned with a cleaning stick treated with the appropriate fluid. (Cleaning sticks with a
slender design are available that allow alignment sleeves to be cleaned without having to
detach them.)
• For jacks, it is important to clean both the tips and sides of the completely protruding
ferrules.
• Both the male and female connector shells tend to attract dust and metal particles, so it is
important to clean both the insides and outsides.
• The fiber end face and ferrule must be absolutely clean before it is inserted into a
transmitter or receiver.
• Mate the connector immediately! Don't let the connector lie around and collect dust
before mating.
• Air can be used to remove lint or loose dust from the port of a transmitter or receiver to be
mated with the connector. Never insert any liquid into the ports.

12 LDK 8300 HDTV High-speed camera system User’s Guide (v1.0)

LDK 8300 HDTV High-speed camera system User’s Guide (v1.0) 13
Chapter 1 - Introduction
Chapter 1
Introduction
1.1 Technology
The LDK 8300 is a high speed, HD multi-format digital camera head using three 2/3-inch HD-
DPM+™ sensors. Combined with the Grass Valley LDK 5880 HD fiber adapter and the
LDK 4583 High-speed Base station, the camera head forms a flexible camera system that is
equally at home in the studio or out on location. The camera system can capture and deliver
HD images, natively, at single, double or triple speed frame rates.
1.1.1 HD sensors
The camera head uses HD-DPM+™ CCD sensors which offer superior performance and
ultimate flexibility. Native wide screen pictures in the high-definition formats 1080i and 720p
are produced at the touch of a button. This unique native multi-format capability is realized with
innovative 9.2 million pixel 2/3" CCD sensors. These allow vertically grouping of different
numbers of pixels on the sensors themselves. There is no need for HDTV format conversion
during digital signal processing which would lead to quality degradation.
These sensors have a high dynamic range and high linear sensitivity across all camera lens
apertures. They are based on Frame Transfer technology, which ensures that there is neither
lag nor smear.
1.1.2 Digital processing
The advanced digital processing of the camera is based on 12-bit A/D converters and more
than 22-bit internal processing. All major camera functions are processed in the digital domain,
including knee, gamma, detail, matrix and colour correction.
The intelligent continuous automatics facility provides automatic control of black levels and
black shading. Each sensor provides black reference signals that are used to monitor
temperature changes. This means that continuous automatic correction is applied without
operator intervention.
The digital detail processing uses full amplitude video RGB signals via an extended dynamic
range detail circuit. Colorimetry is selected by means of a variable 6-point digital matrix or via
preset matrices. Digital gamma circuits provide a wide range of standardised gamma curves
and enable soft contrast in black scenes to be enhanced, together with hard contrast and
saturated colour in bright scenes. The matrix and gamma sequence is software programmable
for precise colour matching.

14 LDK 8300 HDTV High-speed camera system User’s Guide (v1.0)
Chapter 1 - Introduction
1.1.3 Film-like characteristics
The pivoting knee circuit adapts both the knee point and the compression ratio according to
the highlight content of the picture to emulate the softly limiting S-shaped transfer
characteristics of film. Digital True Colour Knee circuitry maintains the correct hue for
compressed highlights, reproducing colours faithfully, even overexposed skin tones.
Digital contrast circuitry provides a black stretch function for more detail in black areas and a
black press function for improving the contrast impression by simulating the S-curve of film.
1.1.4 Focus assist
With HDTV, focusing is even more critical than before. The LDK 8300 has special patented
focusing aids. A unique viewfinder zoom function enlarges the viewfinder image instantly with
a simple press-button action, thus providing improved means for focusing. A patented crawler
circuitry adds motion in the viewfinder to objects in sharp focus.
1.1.5 Acquisition formats
The LDK 8300 acquires signals in 1080i/720p HD formats at single, double and triple speed
which are output from the high speed base station as normal or three-phase signals . At the
same time, the camera provides high-quality SDTV outputs in either 50 Hz or 59.94 Hz.
1.1.6 High speed fiber connection
The LDK5880 HD fiber adapter allows video transmission and remote control of cameras up to
a distance of 4,000 m (13,000 ft) and beyond, using industry standard fiber-optic cable.
The communication facilities provide for two-wire or four-wire high quality intercom signals.
Full camera control is provided via the Grass Valley C2IP Ethernet-based control network.
1.1.7 High speed Base Station
Together with LDK 4583 High-speed Base Station, the LDK 8300 provides a digital high speed
output to the studio environment. This 3x HD-SDI connection can be supplied to an external
disk recorder or recording system to obtain exceptional slow motion playback performance.
1.1.8 Flicker reduction technology
Flicker reduction technology ensures constant video output levels at triple speed frame rates
even under difficult artificial lighting conditions.
1.1.9 SuperXPander
The SuperXPander together with the optional 7-inch HD high resolution viewfinder or 8-inch
LCD viewfinder, turns the portable camera into a full-featured camera for both studio and
outside broadcast situations such as sports and stage events.

LDK 8300 HDTV High-speed camera system User’s Guide (v1.0) 15
Chapter 1 - Introduction
1.2 Features
• Ultimate flexibility with HD-DPM+ ™ CCD sensors, offering native switchability between
the interlaced 1080i and true progressive 720p high definition digital formats.
• The CCDs have 9.2 million pixels, with 1920 (H) x 4320 (V) effective picture elements.
• Frame Transfer technology ensures no smear.
• 12-bit A/D conversion and more than 22-bit internal digital processing with unique
software programmable video path.
• Superior all digital highlight handling with a wide dynamic range.
• Unique circuitry for pivoting knee and True Colour Knee.
• Variable gain control and variable colour temperature.
• Wide range of presets and variable 6-point digital matrix assure accurate colour matching.
• Fluorescent light matrix.
• Digital gamma with unique standard preset values and highest accuracy.
• Digital detail with an extensive range of parameters.
• Advanced detail correction includes two automatic skin settings.
• Intelligent Continuous Automatics black levels, black shading and video levels - no set-up
time required.
• Digital contrast with standard black stretch and black press.
• International standard 2/3-inch lens interface.
• Optical servo-controlled four-position neutral density filter wheel.
• Optical servo-controlled effect filter wheel with soft focus, four-point star and six-point star
filters.
• Electronic colour filter can be used for creating a special look (warm/cold) of a scene, or
for a smooth colour temperature control around the white balance setting.
• Smart card for personal settings and security.
• Owner card for setting user levels, and for copying and storing control settings.
• Protected, easy-to-operate controls and switches with read-out of all settings.
• Viewfinder status read-out of primary camera functions.
• Flicker reduction technology ensures constant video output levels at triple-speed frame
rates.

16 LDK 8300 HDTV High-speed camera system User’s Guide (v1.0)
Chapter 1 - Introduction
1.3 Accessories
SuperXpander LDK 4488
Xpander LDK 4489
7-inch viewfinder support LDK 6517
2-inch viewfinder HDTV LDK 5302/60
5-inch viewfinder HDTV LDK 5305/01
7-inch viewfinder HDTV LDK 4021
8-inch LCD viewfinder LDK 4025
Wide Angle adapter for 2-inch viewfinder LDK 5390/00
Left eye adapter for 2-inch viewfinder LDK 5390/10
Sunhood for 5-inch viewfinder LDK 6992/02
Raincover for camera with 5-inch viewfinder LDK 5021/05
Tripod plate LDK 5031/10
Headset dynamic XLR-5 (double muff) LDK 8111/37
Headset dynamic XLR-5 (single muff) LDK 8111/51
Scriptboard with light LDK 6985/21
Universal transport case LDK 5020/05
AC power supply 100 W LDK 5901/00

LDK 8300 HDTV High-speed camera system User’s Guide (v1.0) 17
Chapter 2 - Installation
Chapter 2
Installation
2.1 Packing/unpacking
Inspect the shipping container for evidence of damage immediately after receipt. If the
shipping container or cushioning material is damaged, it should be kept until the contents of
the shipment have been checked for completeness and the units have been checked
mechanically and electrically.
The shipping container should be placed upright and opened from the top. Remove the
cushioning material and lift out the contents. The contents of the shipment should be checked
against the packing list. If the contents are incomplete, if there is mechanical damage or
defect, or if the units do not perform correctly when unpacked, notify your Grass Valley
Nederland B.V. sales or service centre within eight days. If the shipping container shows signs
of damage or stress, notify the carrier as well.
If a unit is being returned to Grass Valley Nederland B.V. for servicing, try to use the containers
and materials of the original packaging. Attach a tag indicating the type of service required,
return address, model number, full serial number and the return number which will be supplied
by your Grass Valley Nederland B.V. service centre.
If the original packing can no longer be used, the following general instructions should be used
for repacking with commercially available materials:
1. Wrap unit in heavy paper or plastic.
2. Use strong shipping container.
3. Use a layer of shock-absorbing material around all sides of the unit to provide firm
cushioning and prevent movement inside container.
4. Seal shipping container securely.
5. Mark shipping container FRAGILE to ensure careful handling.

18 LDK 8300 HDTV High-speed camera system User’s Guide (v1.0)
Chapter 2 - Installation
2.2 Universal transport case
It is important to protect your camera against damage when transporting it. To do this, a
universal transport case (LDK 5020/05) is optionally available for the camera, lens, viewfinder
and some accessories.
Figure 2-1. Universal transport case
The camera is packed in the case as shown in the figure above. This ensures that the camera is
not damaged during transport. Turn the 2-inch viewfinder downwards so that it does not
protrude above the top of the camera. Several foam packing inserts are provided to enable
different configurations of the camera to be packed securely. These inserts are used to support
the rear of the camera. Make sure you use the correct foam insert for your particular
configuration.
user’s guide
packing inserts
top light
tripod
plate
power
supply
additional
supplies

LDK 8300 HDTV High-speed camera system User’s Guide (v1.0) 19
Chapter 2 - Installation
2.3 Mounting a lens
To attach a lens to the camera head proceed as follows:
1. Ensure that the lens locking ring (1) is in the unlocked position - turned counterclockwise.
2. Remove the dust protection cap (2).
3. Slot the lens into the lens mount (3).
4. Turn the lens locking ring (1) clockwise to lock the lens in place.
5. Connect the lens cable to the lens connector (4) at the right side of the camera.
6. Place the lens cable into the bottom clip at the front of the camera and clip (5) located at
the side.
Figure 2-2. Lens mounting
Caution
Do not attach a lens weighing more than 5 kg (11 lbs) to the camera without a support.
When a new lens is fitted to the camera it may be necessary to carry out some adjustments to
optimize its use, for example, back focus or shading. For more information about these
adjustments refer to the lens manufacturer’s documentation.
☞Note
Always mount the dust protection cap when the lens is not connected to the camera.
453
2
1

20 LDK 8300 HDTV High-speed camera system User’s Guide (v1.0)
Chapter 2 - Installation
2.4 2-inch viewfinder
2.4.1 Mounting viewfinder and microphone holder
To mount the viewfinder LDK 5302/60 proceed as follows:
1. Loosen locking ring (1) of viewfinder support bracket (2) at the front of the camera handle.
(As seen from the rear of the camera, turning the locking ring counterclockwise moves it
towards the handle.)
2. Slide the viewfinder onto the viewfinder support bracket.
3. Tighten the locking ring (1) by turning it clockwise (as seen from rear) so that the
viewfinder is mounted securely to the support.
4. Connect the viewfinder cable to the viewfinder connector socket (6) at the top right of the
camera.
5. Slide the microphone holder (4) onto the viewfinder and secure with the knurled screw
(5).
Caution
Always fit the microphone holder as it functions as a safety stop for the viewfinder.
6. To improve the comfort of the skin contact when using the viewfinder, fit the eye piece
cover (3) to the rubber eyepiece. Spare eye piece covers (ordering number
3922 405 00461) are available at your Grass Valley representative.
Figure 2-3. Viewfinder mounting
321
5
64