Linear Acoustic MetaMAXLA-5180 User manual

Model LA-5180
MetaMAX Series Audio Metadata Frame
Synchronizer and Generator
Operation Manual

Model LA-5180
AC-3 Frame Synchronizer and Rate Shaper
Operation Manual
Release Date: October, 2007
Software Version: 00.00.33 and later
Linear Acoustic Inc.
Phone: [phone]
FAX: [phone]
Web: www.LinearAcoustic.com

Warranty Information
DISCLAIMER OF WARRANTIES: Products manufactured by Linear Acoustic Inc. are war-
ranted against defects in material and workmanship for a period of two (2) years from the date
of purchase. THERE ARE NO OTHER IMPLIED OR EXPRESS WARRANTIES AND
NO WARRANTY FOR MERCHANTABILITY OR FITNESS FOR A PARTICULAR
PURPOSE.
During the warranty period Linear Acoustic Inc. will repair, or at our discretion replace, com-
ponents which prove to be defective, provided the unit is returned, shipped pre-paid to us directly
with a return authorization (RA) number clearly marked on the packaging. Please note, this
RA number must be present or package will be refused and returned to sender.
All requests for repairs MUST include the unit serial number to ensure quick and accurate service.
DEFECTS CAUSED BY UNAUTHORIZED MODIFICATIONS, MISUSE OR ACCI-
DENTS, UNAUTHORIZED CUSTOMER REPAIRS, OR ANY FURTHER DAMAGE
CAUSED BY INADEQUATE PACKAGING FOR SERVICE RETURN ARE NOT COV-
ERED BY THIS WARRANTY.
PLEASE SAVE THE SHIPPING CARTON AND ALL PACKING MATERIALS. FAIL-
URE TO RETURN UNIT IN ORIGINAL SHIPPING CARTON AND PACKING
MATERIALS WILL RESULT IN A CHARGE FOR NEW SHIPPING MATERIALS.
LIMITATION OF PERIOD OF ACTION ON CONTRACT: No action, regardless of form,
arising out of the transactions under this agreement may be brought by buyer, its successors,
agents and/or assigns, more than two years from date of purchase.
LIMITATION OF LIABILITY: It is understood and agreed that Linear Acoustic’s liability
whether in contract, in tort, under any warranty, in negligence or otherwise shall not exceed the
cost of repair or replacement of the defective components and under no circumstances shall
Linear Acoustic be liable for incidental, special, direct, indirect or consequential damages, or loss
of use, revenue or profit even if Linear Acoustic or its agents have been advised, orally or in
writing, of the possibility of such damages.
StreamStacker, upMAX, AutoNorm, metaMAX, CrowdControl, AEROMAX-TV, and AER-
OMAX-DTV are registered trademarks of Linear Acoustic Inc., all other trademarks remain the
property of their respective owners.

Linear Acoustic LA-5180 Metadata Frame Sync/Generator Operation Manual
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Table of Contents
List of Figures..........................................................................................................................................vii
Chapter 1: Introduction...................................................................................................................5
1.1 Principles of Operation..........................................................................................6
1.2 Location of LA-5180..............................................................................................6
1.3 Future Updates........................................................................................................6
1.4 Warranty and Feedback .........................................................................................7
Chapter 2: Connections..................................................................................................................9
2.1 Unpacking and Inspection ....................................................................................9
2.2 Installation ...............................................................................................................9
2.3 Rear Panel ..............................................................................................................10
2.3.1 Connection Ports .................................................................................10
2.4 Quick Setup Notes ...............................................................................................11
Chapter 3: Applications................................................................................................................13
3.1 VANC Metadata Application .............................................................................13
3.2 Stand-alone Metadata Generator Application..................................................14
3.3 AMAS Metadata Analysis Application ..............................................................15
Chapter 4: Menus..............................................................................................................................17
4.1 Main Menu Level..................................................................................................19
4.1.1 Status Menu...........................................................................................19
4.1.2 Statistics Menu......................................................................................19
4.1.3 Setup Menu ...........................................................................................19
4.1.4 I/O Menu..............................................................................................19
4.1.5 System Menu.........................................................................................20
4.1.6 Presets Menu.........................................................................................20

Linear Acoustic LA-5180 Metadata Frame Sync/Generator Operation Manual
vi
Chapter 5: AMAS Software......................................................................................................23
5.1 Installation .............................................................................................................23
5.2 Starting AMAS ......................................................................................................23
5.3 Connecting to LA-5180 Hardware.....................................................................23
5.4 General Application Layout................................................................................24
5.4.1 Main AMAS Window (Figure 5-1): ...................................................24
5.4.2 Program Status Window (Figure 5-2): ..............................................25
5.4.3 Activity Log Window...........................................................................26
5.5 Metadata Edit Rules .............................................................................................27
5.6 Other Features ......................................................................................................29
5.7 Diagnostics ............................................................................................................30
Chapter 6: Specifications............................................................................................................31
Chapter 7: Metadata .......................................................................................................................35
7.1 Metadata Structural Overview ............................................................................35
7.2 Informational and Control Metadata.................................................................36
7.3 The Three D's .......................................................................................................38
7.3.1 Dialogue Level......................................................................................38
7.3.2 Dynamic Range Control (DRC).........................................................39
7.3.3 Downmixing .........................................................................................44
7.4 Typical Program Scenarios..................................................................................45
7.4.1 Live Sporting Event.............................................................................45
7.4.2 Theatrical Movies for Broadcast........................................................46
7.4.3 Sitcom ....................................................................................................47
7.4.4 News.......................................................................................................47
7.4.5 SAP.........................................................................................................47
7.4.6 Visual Descriptive ................................................................................48
7.5 Summary ................................................................................................................48
7.6 Typical Metadata Settings....................................................................................48

Linear Acoustic LA-5180 Metadata Frame Sync/Generator Operation Manual
vii
List of Figures
1-1 LA-5180 Metadata Frame Synchronizer and Generator Simplified Block Diagram ................6
2-1 Rear Panel ...........................................................................................................................................10
3-1 LA-5180 processing VANC metadata ............................................................................................13
3-2 LA-5180 Used as a stand-alone metadata generator ....................................................................14
3-3 Audio Metadata Analysis System (AMAS) typical setup .............................................................15
4-1 LA-5180 Menu Tree (first half) .......................................................................................................17
4-2 LA-5180 Menu Tree (second half) ..................................................................................................18
5-1 Main AMAS window. ........................................................................................................................25
5-2 Program Status window showing primary metadata programs. .................................................26
5-3 Activity Log window showing details also written to log file .....................................................27
5-4 Edit rules window ..............................................................................................................................28
7-1 Transform function of DRC system in AC-3, aacPlus, and others. ..........................................41

Linear Acoustic LA-5180 Metadata Frame Sync/Generator Operation Manual
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Linear Acoustic LA-5180 Metadata Frame Sync/Generator Operation Manual
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Chapter 1: Introduction
The Linear Acoustic LA-5180 Audio Metadata Frame Synchronizer and Generator
is an integral part of any facility relying on the successful creation and continuity of
metadata for proper audio transmission. The flexible unit accepts professional audio
metadata (also known as Dolby or Dolby E metadata) via a standard RS-485 serial
input, or as delivered inside the VANC space of an HD-SDI stream. The LA-5180
then corrects or replaces bad or missing metadata packets. Stable metadata is then
output via RS-485 and also selectably back into the VANC space of the applied HD-
SDI signal. The LA-5180 can also be used as a stand-alone audio metadata generator,
with eight presets available to store all required parameters for both the professional
metadata (also known as Dolby E metadata) and the consumer metadata (also known
as the AC-3 metadata).
Optionally, the LA-5180 can be provided with Audio Metadata Analysis System (AMAS)
to give users in-depth metadata error reporting. Individual metadata parameters are dis-
played two programs at a time, with all programs being monitored in the background. Er-
ror rules and parameter ranges and interactions are user-configurable. Summary red light/
green light on-screen indications are provided by a Windows(R) compatible application
connected via TCP/IP to the LA-5180. A rear-panel GP Output can be commanded to
indicate the presence of warnings or errors.
The Linear Acoustic LA-5180 has the following features:
• Frame synchronization and/or generation of audio metadata: output errors are
prevented by repeating or replacing any bad frames or unit can be used as a stand
alone generator
• Metadata input via HD-SDI or RS-485, output via RS-485 and/or HD-SDI
• Metadata ‘silent frame’ mode replaces errored or missing metadata frames with
known good internally stored versions
• GPI and front panel control of unit operation
• Fast ‘manual revert’ mode quickly replaces incoming metadata on command
• Dual, redundant power supplies and hard-bypass for mission critical applications
• Optional AMAS metadata analysis system

Linear Acoustic LA-5180 Metadata Frame Sync/Generator Operation Manual Introduction
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1.1 Principles of Operation
Figure 1-1 shows the internal audio path of the LA-5180.
It should be noted that this diagram is a general representation of signal flow. Please
consult the appropriate section of this manual for specific functionality.
Figure 1-1 LA-5180 Metadata Frame Synchronizer and Generator Simplified Block Diagram
1.2 Location of LA-5180
The Linear Acoustic LA-5180 Metadata Frame Synchronizer and Generator can be located
anywhere. Typical locations include audio mixing facilities or rooms, remote outside
broadcast (OB) trucks, transmission facilities, playout facilities, satellite facilities, etc... In
many cases, it may be located near AC-3 encoders such as a Dolby DP-569. Anywhere that
an error-free metadata signal is required is an ideal location for an LA-5180. As it will likely
be in a transmission environment, dual redundant power supplies and hard relay bypass
are provided for trouble free operation.
1.3 Future Updates
Software updates may become available in the future to add additional features and per-
formance. Updates will utilize the Ethernet port to accomplish the installation of upgraded
software, and a loader application will be provided for this purpose.
HD-SDI
Out
HD-SDI In
HD-SDI
Mux & Tx
CPU
(FPUI, I/O, PSU Mon, System Control)
Bypass
MD
Frame
Sync
HD-SDI
Rcvr/
Demux
RS-485 I n
RS-485
Rcvr RS-48
5
Out
Bypass
MD
Gen
Black Burst
Vref In
Clock
VANC
RS-485 FS
Gen
Pass
Insert
ETHERNET
GPI GPO

Linear Acoustic LA-5180 Metadata Frame Sync/Generator Operation Manual Introduction
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1.4 Warranty and Feedback
Please take a moment to fill out the warranty card included with the unit and drop it in the
mail. This will enable us to contact you if there are any software or documentation issues.
Also, we are very interested in your feedback. This unit was designed based on feedback
gathered directly from broadcast engineers and it will evolve further thanks to ongoing
suggestions and comments from users such as you. We look forward to hearing from you!

Linear Acoustic LA-5180 Metadata Frame Sync/Generator Operation Manual Introduction
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Linear Acoustic LA-5180 Metadata Frame Sync/Generator Operation Manual
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Chapter 2: Connections
This chapter covers all required connections for the LA-5180.
2.1 Unpacking and Inspection
Before unpacking the unit, inspect the outer carton for shipping damage. If the car-
ton shows damage, inspect the unit in those areas. Please save the carefully designed
shipping carton and packing materials. In the unlikely event that the unit needs to be
returned to the factory, alternate cartons or packing materials may not be adequate
and can cause damage not covered by warranty.
The following essential items are provided with the unit:
• Two power cords (style to match shipping location)
• Small bag with replacement fuses, a DB-9 Male connector and shielded plastic
backshell, and a handy permanent marker.
• For AMAS option: DB9-M “Y” cable and AMAS software installation CD-ROM
• This manual
• Warranty information: Please fill out and return the warranty card to Linear
Acoustic to ensure your software and documentation are kept up to date.
2.2 Installation
Linear Acoustic LA-5180 installation requires:
• One standard rack space units with ADEQUATE VENTILATION (the unit
uses convection cooling via vents on the left and right sides of the unit);
• An analog black-burst video reference signal;
• A metadata source: RS-485 serial or from the VANC space of HD-SDI
• standard 75-Ohm BNC cables for signal connections;
WARNING: Reference analog Black Burst MUST be applied at all times for proper metadata timing.

Linear Acoustic LA-5180 Metadata Frame Sync/Generator Operation Manual Connections
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2.3 Rear Panel
The rear panel of the Linear Acoustic LA-5180 contains all signal and power I/O.
WARNING: Replace fuses only with the same type and rating
2.3.1 Connection Ports
All of the LA-5180’s connections are on the rear panel and are described in detail be-
low. See Chapter 6: Specifications for specific pinouts.
Figure 2-1 Rear Panel
• Metadata: This port is for input and output of RS-485 metadata. Note that it is nor-
mally configured as a tributary or output device. Thus it will connect pin-for-pin to any
metadata receiving device (Linear Acoustic AEROMAX 5.1, Dolby DP-571, DP-569,
etc...).
•GPI/O: This is the GPI/O connection for parallel control of the unit. There are
four General Purpose (GP) Inputs and four GP Outputs whose function, polari-
ty, and type (i.e. held or momentary) are adjustable via the front panel user inter-
face.
•ETHERNET: 10 BASE-T connection for software updates and future control
and monitoring applications.
•USB: Future Use.
•HD-SDI In/Out: Input of HD-SDI signal for extraction of metadata from ver-
tical ancillary (VANC) space; Output signal is either a re-clocked duplicate of the
input signal or the VANC data can be replaced with frame synchronized or lo-
cally generated metadata.
•VREF In: Apply either NTSC or PAL analog black burst reference signal.
WARNING: Reference analog Black Burst MUST be applied at all times for proper operation

Linear Acoustic LA-5180 Metadata Frame Sync/Generator Operation Manual Connections
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•LTC Input: Used for generating timestamps in AMAS system logs.
•AES In/Out: Apply Dolby E signal for measurement of Dolby E guard band with
respect to the vertical interval of the applied video reference signal.
NOTE: Front panel LEDs indicate input signal condition: Off=No Signal present or required,
Red=Signal required but not present, Green=OK.
2.4 Quick Setup Notes
The LA-5180 requires only minimal setup to be up and running.
• Apply power to BOTH IEC AC power inlet modules.
• Note that once booted (~ 30 seconds), the front panel will display “No Refer-
ence” if no connections have been made to the rear panel.
• Connect plant analog black burst reference to the Vref input and terminate the
loop-through if not used.
• Verify that the front panel indicator shows a Green LED for Internal Metadata
or External Metadata.
• Frame synchronized or locally generated metadata will be present on the RS-485
output and re-inserted into the HD-SDI input signal if selected (FUTURE).
• See Chapter 5 for information concerning AMAS setup and use.

Linear Acoustic LA-5180 Metadata Frame Sync/Generator Operation Manual Connections
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Linear Acoustic LA-5180 Metadata Frame Sync/Generator Operation Manual
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Chapter 3: Applications
The LA-5180 is intended to be used in an emission (transmission) environment, or
installed in a production or master control area. This chapter shows several applica-
tions of the system as it is intended to be used. Of course other applications are pos-
sible:
• Metadata processor accepting an HD-SDI signal with metadata, extracting, pro-
cessing, then outputting this metadata over serial RS-485 connector.
• Stand-Alone Audio Metadata Generator accepts analog black burst video reference
signal and outputs locally adjustable metadata.
• AMAS Metadata Analysis accepts analog black burst reference, LTC timecode, meta-
data (serial or VANC), and Dolby E AES signal (for guard band timing info) and com-
municates with AMAS application via an ETHERNET connection.
3.1 VANC Metadata Application
Figure 3-1 LA-5180 processing VANC metadata
Figure 3-1 above shows the LA-5180 processing metadata supplied via the VANC
space of an HD-SDI signal. The unit will extract the metadata, frame synchronize it
back to plant reference, and allow editing or replacement of one or all parameters. It can
be switched seamlessly from external to internal generation manually or automatically.
HD-SDI
w/VANC Metadata
Linear Acousti
c
LA-5180
GPI Cl osure
(Preset Recall 1-4)
VTR
RS-485
Audio Metadata Term
Black Burst
Local Vref

Linear Acoustic LA-5180 Metadata Frame Sync/Generator Operation Manual Applications
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3.2 Stand-alone Metadata Generator Application
Figure 3-2 LA-5180 Used as a stand-alone metadata generator
Figure 3-1 above shows the LA-5180 used as a stand-alone metadata generator. The only
required input is Video Reference (analog black burst), and optionally a contact closure to
change presets. Note that video reference is required to produce proper metadata timing.
Linear Acousti
c
LA-5180
GPI Closure
(Preset Recall 1-4)
Non-Metadata
Production Studio
RS-485
Audio Metadata
Term
Black Burst
Local Vref

Linear Acoustic LA-5180 Metadata Frame Sync/Generator Operation Manual Applications
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3.3 AMAS Metadata Analysis Application
Figure 3-3 Audio Metadata Analysis System (AMAS) typical setup
AMAS can be used to analyze live or pre-recorded content to verify that proper metadata
has been included with a given program. The LA-5180 metadata output can also be con-
nected to downstream equipment to allow for real-time correction of metadata issues. This
can be done on a parameter-by-parameter basis or automatically by simply overwriting all
incoming parameters with preset values.
AES ( Dol by E)
Linear Acousti c
LA-5180
WithAMAS
VTR
Term
Bl ack Bur st
Local Vref
CAUTION
To reduce th e ri sk of
fire replace only with
same type and rating
250V slow-blow fuse
100-240 Vac
24VA 50-60Hz
FUSE
T1A
Dol by DP- 572
Dol by E Decoder
Term
Metadata
LTC Ti mecode
ETHERNET
To PC with AMAS

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