GRASS VALLEY LDX 86WorldCam User manual

3922 496 32221 July 2015 v2.0
—
LDX 86 Series
User’s Guide
High Frame Rate/HD/3G/4K Camera Platform

Declaration of Conformity
We, Grass Valley Nederland B.V., Bergschot 69, 4817 PA 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. 2015. 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, LDX Series and derivatives are trademarks of Belden Inc. or
Grass Valley. 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.grassvalley.com

LDX 86 High Frame Rate/HD/3G/4K Camera Platform User’s Guide (v2.0) 3
Table of contents
Chapter 1 – Introduction
1.1 Welcome. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .15
1.1.1 About this guide. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 15
1.1.2 Related documents . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 15
1.2 Technology. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .16
1.2.1 LDX 86 Worldcam . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 16
1.2.2 LDX 86 HiSpeed/XtremeSpeed . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 16
1.2.3 LDX 86 4K . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .16
1.2.4 LDX 86 Universe . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 17
1.2.5 Xensium-FT imagers . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 17
1.2.6 Superior digital processing. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 17
1.2.7 Designed for the operator . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 17
1.3 LDX 86 Series. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 18
1.3.1 Upgrade paths . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 18
1.3.2 Acquisition formats . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 19
1.3.3 Key features. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 19
1.4 List of accessories . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 21
Chapter 2 – Installation
2.1 Mounting a lens . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 23
2.2 EC 270 EyeCatcher viewfinder . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 24
2.2.1 Mounting the viewfinder . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 24
2.2.2 Positioning the viewfinder . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 25
2.3 AJ-MC700 Microphone . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 26
2.4 LDK 5301/10 Tripod adapter plate . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 27
2.5 Adjusting the shoulder pad. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 28
2.6 Exchanging the camera adapter. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 29
2.6.1 Preparation. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 29
2.6.2 Attaching the adapter . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 29
2.6.3 Detaching the adapter . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 30
2.7 LDK 5020/05 Universal Transport Case . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 30
2.8 Packing for return . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 30
Chapter 3 – Operating instructions
3.1 Using the camera. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 31
3.1.1 Powering the camera. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 31
3.1.2 Switching on . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 31
3.2 Location of controls (front) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 32
3.3 Location of controls (back panel) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 34

4 LDX 86 High Frame Rate/HD/3G/4K Camera Platform User’s Guide (v2.0)
3.4 Controlling the camera . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .36
3.4.1 Navigating the camera menu . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .36
3.4.2 Entering the camera menu . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 37
3.4.3 Finding your way . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .37
3.4.4 Leaving the camera menu . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 38
3.4.5 Making value changes . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 38
3.4.6 Undoing changes . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 38
3.5 Assigning user buttons . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 39
3.5.1 Left side and lens buttons . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 39
3.5.2 Handgrip button . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .40
3.6 Viewfinder controls (EyeCatcher only). . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .41
3.6.1 Front. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 41
3.6.2 Back . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 42
3.7 Viewfinder information . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .43
3.7.1 Indicators . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 43
3.7.2 On screen marker indicators . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .44
3.7.3 Viewfinder LED indicators (EyeCatcher only). . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 45
3.7.4 Information screen. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .46
3.7.5 Focus assist . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 47
3.7.6 Viewfinder zoom . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .47
3.8 Lens operation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .47
3.8.1 Back focus adjustment . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 47
3.8.2 CLASS . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .47
3.8.3 Auto Iris . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .48
3.8.4 Extended Iris . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .48
3.8.5 Precision focus. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .48
3.8.6 Lens indicators in the viewfinder . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .49
3.9 Connecting audio. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .50
3.9.1 Analog audio . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 50
3.9.2 Digital audio . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 50
3.10 Using intercom. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .51
3.10.1 Selecting intercom channels . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .51
3.10.2 Adjusting intercom volume . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .52
3.10.3 Routing signals. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .52
3.10.4 Adjusting sidetone volume . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .52
3.10.5 Assigning buttons . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 52
3.10.6 Setting up Tracker headset . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 53
3.11 Communication . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .54
3.11.1 Return video channels . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 54
3.11.2 PickMe button . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .54
3.11.3 Call button . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .55
3.11.4 Other communication . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 55
3.12 Managing files . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .56
3.12.1 Scene files . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 56
3.12.2 Operator files . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 56
3.12.3 Lens files . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .57
3.12.4 Standard files . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 57
3.13 Access and security . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .58
3.13.1 User level . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .58
3.13.2 Selecting the user level . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .58
3.13.3 Disable camera . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .58
3.13.4 Access control . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 58

LDX 86 High Frame Rate/HD/3G/4K Camera Platform User’s Guide (v2.0) 5
Chapter 4 – Video setup
4.1 Video settings . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 59
4.1.1 Standard settings. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 59
4.1.2 Video mode . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 59
4.1.3 Color bar . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 60
4.2 Gain. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 60
4.3 Gamma . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .61
4.3.1 Gamma correction . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 61
4.3.2 Gamma curve . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 62
4.3.3 Gamma presets . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 62
4.4 Contrast . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .62
4.4.1 Contrast adjustment . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 62
4.4.2 Black Stretch . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 63
4.5 Knee . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .63
4.5.1 Knee (in PowerCurves mode) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 64
4.5.2 Knee (in Compatibility mode). . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 65
4.6 Optical filters . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 65
4.7 Exposure. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 66
4.7.1 Lighting correction . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 66
4.7.2 V-Shift (vertical acquisition shift) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 66
4.7.3 LED Wall Filter . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 67
4.8 Color . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 67
4.8.1 Color Temperature. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 67
4.8.2 Color Tint . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .67
4.8.3 Color Filter . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 67
4.8.4 Selecting color temperature . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 68
4.8.5 Variable color temperature. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 68
4.8.6 Auto White Balance . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 69
4.8.7 Saturation. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 70
4.8.8 Color Protect . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 71
4.8.9 Secondary color correction . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 71
4.9 Sharpness. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .73
4.9.1 Detail . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 73
4.9.2 Texture. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 73
4.9.3 Advanced options . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 74
4.9.4 Lens related functions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 74
4.9.5 Detail Equalizer . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 74
4.9.6 Skin Detail . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 75
4.10 AnyLightXtremeTM . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 76
4.10.1 Concept . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 76
4.10.2 Settings . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 76
4.11 Image control . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .77
4.11.1 Freeze Frame. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 77
4.11.2 Reverse Scan. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 78
Chapter 5 – Camera menu reference
5.1 Reference tables . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 79
5.2 Operator Toolbox menu . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 80
5.3 Production Setup menu . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 84
5.4 Creative Control menu . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 88
5.5 Configuration menu . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 92
5.6 Licenses menu . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 96
5.7 Diagnostics menu . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 98

6 LDX 86 High Frame Rate/HD/3G/4K Camera Platform User’s Guide (v2.0)
5.8 Service menu . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .101
Chapter 6 – Maintenance
6.1 Installing eLicenses . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .103
6.1.1 About eLicenses . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 103
6.1.2 Installation procedure. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .103
6.2 Black Calibration . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .105
6.3 Formatting the SD Card. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .106
Chapter 7 – Connectors
7.1 Camera front . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .107
7.1.1 Viewfinder connector. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .108
7.1.2 Network connector . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .108
7.1.3 USB connector. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .108
7.1.4 HDMI connector . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 109
7.1.5 Lens interface connector . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 109
7.1.6 Front Mic connector. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .109
7.2 Camera back panel . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 110
7.2.1 Back panel . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 110
7.2.2 Analog viewfinder output/AES audio input connector . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 110
7.2.3 Viewfinder output/Main output connector . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .110
7.2.4 Transmission connector. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .111
7.2.5 Reference input . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . / External video input connector111
7.2.6 External video output connector . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .111
7.2.7 Script light connector . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .111
7.2.8 RS-232 (serial private data) connector . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 111
7.2.9 Auxiliary connector. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .112
7.2.10 Audio 1 + 2 connectors . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 113
7.2.11 Intercom headset connector . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .113
7.2.12 DC Power output connector . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .113
7.2.13 DC Power input connector. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 113
7.2.14 Side panel . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .114
7.2.15 Teleprompter output / Analog viewfinder output / Analog reference input . . .114
Chapter 8 – Specifications
8.1 Specifications for LDX 86 camera head . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .115
8.1.1 General. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .115
8.1.2 Camera. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .115
8.1.3 Video modes . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .116
8.1.4 Connectivity . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 117
8.1.5 Dimensions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .117
8.2 Specifications for LDX 5660 XF Fiber adapter. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .118
8.3 Dimensions. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .119

LDX 86 High Frame Rate/HD/3G/4K Camera Platform User’s Guide (v2.0) 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 on, information concerning Grass Valley’s environmental policy can be found at:
www.grassvalley.com/about/environmental-policy

8 LDX 86 High Frame Rate/HD/3G/4K Camera Platform User’s Guide (v2.0)
Important information
Read these instructions carefully and retain them for future reference. Regularly check the
Grass Valley website (www.grassvalley.com) for new updates of this and other user’s guides.
During installation and operation of this equipment, local building safety and fire protection
standards must be observed.
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.

LDX 86 High Frame Rate/HD/3G/4K Camera Platform User’s Guide (v2.0) 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 camera correctly. Do not block the hot airflow
coming from the outlet on the right side of the camera adapter.

10 LDX 86 High Frame Rate/HD/3G/4K Camera Platform User’s Guide (v2.0)
Precautions
To ensure continual high performance from the camera take the following precautions into
consideration:
• Avoid damp places. If the environment is wet or damp a rain cover must be used to
protect the unit.
• 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 imagers.
• Avoid extreme highlights as these can cause various kinds of optical reflections.
• Be careful when connecting and disconnecting Triax or Fiber cables.
• Do not connect Grass Valley camera systems with other manufacturer’s camera system
parts.
• Make connections swiftly and firmly to avoid false error messages.

LDX 86 High Frame Rate/HD/3G/4K Camera Platform User’s Guide (v2.0) 11
Triax cable systems
Do not allow system earth currents to exceed 1.5 A in the outer shield of the Triax cable or 0.2
A in other cable shields.
To avoid excessive earth currents in a Triax system, galvanically separate the power earth
connection of equipment connected to the camera from the camera earth.
It is strictly prohibited to short circuit the inner and outer shields of a Triax cable used to
connect a camera to an XCU.
Galvanic separation
Because of the nature of Triax systems, with long distances between camera and its XCU, the
risk of earth currents flowing is greater. These earth currents can result in damage to the
equipment.
For example, a monitor connected directly to the monitor output of the camera is powered
locally. The earthing point of the monitor’s power supply can be at a different potential with
respect to the earthing point of the XCU. If the power earth of the monitor is also the video
earth, then this earth potential is transferred to the camera via the shield of the BNC connector.
The difference in earth potential between the camera and the XCU results in an earth current in
the Triax system.
To prevent earth currents from flowing in the Triax system, we recommend galvanic separation
of earthed equipment connected to the camera. This separation can be achieved by using an
isolation transformer between the local power outlet and the equipment connected to the
camera. Alternatively, use equipment that has a double insulation and therefore does not
require an earth connection.

12 LDX 86 High Frame Rate/HD/3G/4K Camera Platform User’s Guide (v2.0)
Fiber-optic transmission units
Laser safety statement (for 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 (for US)
Fiber-optic transmission units are ified 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.
WARNING
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.

LDX 86 High Frame Rate/HD/3G/4K Camera Platform User’s Guide (v2.0) 13
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 commercially 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.

14 LDX 86 High Frame Rate/HD/3G/4K Camera Platform User’s Guide (v2.0)

LDX 86 High Frame Rate/HD/3G/4K Camera Platform User’s Guide (v2.0) 15
Chapter 1 - Introduction
Chapter 1
Introduction
1.1 Welcome
The LDX 86 Series comprises a range of high-end live production camera heads using
Xensium-FT imagers. An LDX 86 camera head contains optics, imagers and digital image
processing electronics, while the LDX XF Universe dockable camera adapter provides a reliable
transmission of all signals to and from the XCU Universe XF base station.
1.1.1 About this guide
The purpose of this guide is to present a detailed description of how to operate an LDX 86
camera head equipped with a dockable transmission adapter. It provides the information
necessary to use the camera in different configurations and with various attachments. This
guide describes all operating features of the camera so it can be used to its full potential.
This guide is so designed that it can be used as an introduction to those who are new to the
camera, as a simple procedural guide to those who wish to set-up and start shooting
immediately, and as a reference work to be consulted as required during the long life of the
camera.
1.1.2 Related documents
Before proceeding, check the Grass Valley website at www.grassvalley.com for the latest
version of this user’s guide and additional information:
• User’s guide updates, data sheets, brochures and application notes.
• Camera software updates, release notes and installation instructions.

16 LDX 86 High Frame Rate/HD/3G/4K Camera Platform User’s Guide (v2.0)
Chapter 1 - Introduction
1.2 Technology
1.2.1 LDX 86 Worldcam
The LDX 86 Series is designed for flexibility, with the ability to be used for both dramatic
productions and live broadcasts, especially sports. The use of compact 2/3-inch lenses with a
B4 mount gives you the large zoom range, speed and depth of field which is required for
demanding live and many dramatic productions.
Offers all HD/PsF/3G production formats plus an upgrade path via GV-eLicenses to 4K (LDX 86
4K) as well as to 6X HD, 3X HD and 3X 3G high-speed (LDX 86 Universe).
1.2.2 LDX 86 HiSpeed/XtremeSpeed
The LDX HiSpeed is the newest generation camera for 3X speed applications with improved
performance.
The LDX XtremeSpeed camera system sets a new standard for ultra slow-motion (6X) image
acquisition by introducing a workflow with instant time-to-air without a cumbersome double-
action memory buffer in the camera—so that not a single moment of the action will be missed
or lost.
Both high frame rate cameras versions offer the highest sensitivity and image performance
across all acquisition speeds while the unique AnyLightXtremeTM flicker reduction assures that
no more irritating light flickering occurs in the replays.
Fully integrates with Grass Valley K2 Dyno Replay Systems and includes K2 Dyno AnySpeedTM
technology which provides for smooth playback at any speed from 0% to 200%, dramatically
expanding the ability to tell a compelling story during replays.
AnyLightXtreme™ flicker reduction system
All camera operations with high frame rate capturing—such as in super slow-motion and ultra
slow-motion applications—face a unique challenge caused by most artificial light sources. In
stadiums, sports arenas, and the like, lighting conditions are often not ideal for highspeed
acquisition. A visual flicker is perceived as changes in light levels due to the mismatch between
the camera scanning frequency and the power frequency of artificial lights.
With the unique AnyLightXtreme feature for the LDX 86 HiSpeed and XtremeSpeed cameras,
there is compensation for this mismatch that helps to automatically reduce flicker, with several
presets for different lighting conditions available in the cameras. The various presets permit the
camera to reduce the flickering in the most effective way based on the lighting situation and
scanning frequency.
1.2.3 LDX 86 4K
The 4K version LDX 86 Series offers the new standard in live 4K (3840x2160p50/59.94)
acquistion. Unlike other 4K cameras, what looks like “in focus” in the viewfinder actually is “in
focus” in Grass Valley 4K cameras. As was learned in the transition from SD to HD, keeping
focus in higher resolutions on a small viewfinder can be challenging for operators. Grass Valley
has put significant effort to make sure that operators can focus in 4K quickly and accurately.
The 4K version also supports a wide variety of traditional 3G and HD acquisition formats, so
that you can use the LDX 4K for traditional sports, dramatic productions, news, documentaries
and theatrical acquisition.

LDX 86 High Frame Rate/HD/3G/4K Camera Platform User’s Guide (v2.0) 17
Chapter 1 - Introduction
1.2. 4 LDX 86 Universe
With the LDX 86 Series cameras, you no longer need to choose between a higher frame rate
like 6X, or higher resolution for 4K — you can have both in a single camera: the LDX 86
Universe. You can even upgrade to LDX 86 Universe features from other LDX 86 Series
cameras when you need to.
This advanced multiformat (HD/3G/4K) and multispeed (1X/3X/6X) content acquisition system
is combined with outstanding image performance, excellent light sensitivity and the ability to
use standard HD lenses. This allows broadcasters and content creators to use the same
workflows they use for HD, while delivering the best HD/3G high-speed slow-motion or 4K
viewing experience possible
1.2. 5 Xensium-FT imagers
The LDX 86 Series camera heads uses custom-designed 2/3-inch CMOS Xensium-FT imagers
that offer superior performance and ultimate flexibility. Native high-definition video formats
(available video modes are depending on the camera model and version) are produced at the
touch of a button.
Progressive frame sampling is the native imaging mode, providing complete frame samples.
The entire imager surface is used for image sampling—there are no interline transfer channels
which introduce aliasing artifacts.
Xensium-FT imagers have a high dynamic range and high linear sensitivity across all lens
apertures. There is no shutter and no vertical smear effect.
1.2. 6 Superior digital processing
The advanced video processing of the camera is done with floating point precision while all
major camera functions are processed in the digital domain, including knee, gamma, detail,
matrix and color correction.
To make images look their best, the LDX 86 Series cameras incorporate TrueTexture™—a
unique feature to preserve texture throughout all processing parameters.
Chromatic lens aberration correction (CLASS) offers impressive sharpness improvements on
the outer regions of the image by canceling out shifts in color registration. This algorithm
works in conjunction with lens data, using industry standard lens interface protocols.
The Dynamic Detail Equalizer provides more control over image sharpness than ever before.
Detail enhancement can be fine-adjusted for each individual tonal range.
Video contrast adjustment offers unmatched creative control over the luminance levels of the
picture: shadows, midtones and highlights can be adjusted individually while natural transitions
between the areas are maintained.
LDX 86 Series cameras provides enhanced colorimetry, color matching, and picture
performance. Color temperature and tint are just two of the parameters that can be
simultaneously adjusted across multiple cameras.
1.2. 7 Designed for the operator
The LDX 86 Series cameras offers even more operational excellence. Button layouts as well as
control knobs are ergonomically designed to allow the operator to find the right adjustments
easily. Full control flexibility is possible thanks to well dimensioned control knobs. With the
easily accessible separated info button, operational information can de displayed in the
viewfinder instantaneously.

18 LDX 86 High Frame Rate/HD/3G/4K Camera Platform User’s Guide (v2.0)
Chapter 1 - Introduction
The user-friendliness of LDX 86 Series cameras has been further improved by using a
streamlined camera menu structure that allows operators to access commonly used functions
more quickly. The camera menu is arranged around operational, video setup, creative setup
and system configuration.
Another imaging innovation is ArtTouch™, an intuitive interface between the operator and hard
wired controls, which significantly enhances artistic possibilities during live broadcast.
ArtTouch includes smart coupling of video control functions.
1.3 LDX 86 Series
1.3.1 Upgrade paths
Unique to the LDX 86 Series are two parallel upgrade paths: One based on higher resolution
(HD/3G/4K) and one based on higher frame rates (3X/6X).
Higher Resolution Upgrade Path
LDX 86 WorldCam — Offers all the production formats of the LDX 80 WorldCam (HD/PsF/3G)
plus an upgrade path via GV-eLicenses to 4K (LDX 86 4K) as well as to 6X HD, 3X HD and 3X
3G high-speed (LDX 86 Universe).
LDX 86 4K — Adds 4K (3840x2160p) acquisition to the LDX 86 WorldCam and can be
upgraded to 6X HD, 3X HD and 3X 3G high-speed (LDX 86 Universe).
LDX 86 Universe — Offers “universal format” support with switchable 1X/3X/6X HD, 1X/3X
3G and 1X 4K from a single camera for ultimate flexibility and equipment utilization.
Higher Frame Rate Upgrade Path
LDX 86 HiSpeed — Offers 1X/3X HD acquisition for super slow-motion acquisition, and can be
upgraded to 1X/3X/6X HD and 1X/3X 3G (LDX 86 XtremeSpeed) as well as adding 1X 4K (LDX
86 Universe).
LDX 86 XtremeSpeed — Adds 6X HD and 1X/3X 3G acquisition to the LDX 86 HiSpeed for
super slow-motion acquisition, and can be upgraded to include 1X 4K (LDX 86 Universe).
LDX 86 Universe — Offers “universal format” support with switchable 1X/3X/6X HD, 1X/3X
3G and 1X 4K from a single camera for ultimate flexibility and equipment utilization.

LDX 86 High Frame Rate/HD/3G/4K Camera Platform User’s Guide (v2.0) 19
Chapter 1 - Introduction
1.3. 2 Acquisition formats
Refer to the table below for acquisition formats:
1.3. 3 Key features
• Ultimate flexibility with next-generation Xensium-FT imagers:
– Frame Transfer (FT) technology ensures no smear
– Increased sensitivity
– Improved digital noise reduction
– TrueTextureTM: texture is preserved throughout all processing parameters
• AnyLightXtreme™ high-quality flicker reduction system ensures constant video output
levels at high speed frame rates.
• ArtTouch™: Smart coupling between many video functions.
• Perfect picture matching across the complete LDX Series as well as the LDK installed
base
• Ergonomically designed camera head with easy access to control buttons, articulated
areas and a large rotary control.
• The clever PickMe button places the camera operator in the middle of the action and
provides a great help for fast event handling in the field
• Suitability for 3D productions
• Advanced secondary color corrector with 6 sets for color hue, saturation and luminance
adjustment.
• Compatible with Grass Valley’s C2IP control systems and RefleX SuperXpander.
• Horizontal chromatic lens aberration and sharpness solution (CLASS) compatible with
many digital lenses
Acquisition format: LDX 86
WorldCam
LDX 86
4K
LDX 86
HiSpeed
LDX 86
XtremeSpeed
LDX 86
Universe
720p50/59.94 (1X) Ye s Ye s Ye s Ye s Ye s
1080i50/59.94 (1X) Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes
1080PsF25/29.97 (1X) Ye s Ye s —Ye s Ye s
1080PsF23.98/24 (1X) Yes Yes — Yes Yes
1080p50/59.94 (1X) Ye s Ye s —Ye s Ye s
720p150/179.82 (3X) — — Yes Yes Yes
1080i150/179.82 (3X) — — Ye s Ye s Ye s
1080p150/179.82 (3X) — — — Yes Yes
1080i300/359.64 (6X) — — — Ye s Ye s
720p300/359.64 (6X) — — — Yes Yes
3840x2180p50/59.94 (4K) —Ye s — — Ye s

20 LDX 86 High Frame Rate/HD/3G/4K Camera Platform User’s Guide (v2.0)
Chapter 1 - Introduction
• Dynamic Detail Equalizer with an extensive range of parameters
• PowerCurves knee control provides an almost unlimited control over the wide dynamic
range of the imaging system
• Depth of field indicator to aid the operator while shooting