Panasonic AJ-HD3700H User manual

Digital Video Cassette Recorder
Operating Instructions
(Hardware)
AJ- E
P

– 2 –
For your safety (USA and Canada)
Since this VTR is designed for metal tapes only make sure that only the designated tapes are used. An or-
dinary VHS tape cannot be used. Removal of the covers on electrical appliances for maintenance purposes
may lead to electric shocks.
Personnel should therefore adhere strictly to the normal safety precautions.
Some customer-preference switches are located on printed circuit boards within the unit. Be sure to turn off
the power prior to opening the unit before changing the position of any switch and especially before re-
moving or reinserting any circuit board.
The lightning flash with arrowhead
symbol within an equilateral triangle
is intended to alert the user to the
presence of uninsulated “dangerous
voltage” within the product’s enclo-
sure that may be of sufficient magni-
tude to constitute a risk of electric
shock to persons.
The exclamation point within an
equilateral triangle is intended to
alert the user to the presence of im-
portant operating and maintenance
(servicing) instructions in the litera-
ture accompanying the appliance.
FCC NOTE:
This device complies with Part 15 of the
FCC Rules. To assure continued compli-
ance follow the attached installation in-
structions and do not make any
unauthorized modifications.
This equipment has been tested and
found to comply with the limits for a Class
A digital device pursuant to Part 15 of the
FCC Rules. These limits are designed to
provide reasonable protection against
harmful interference when the equipment
is operated in a commercial environment.
This equipment generates uses and can
radiate radio frequency energy and if not
installed and used in accordance with the
instruction manual may cause harmful in-
terference to radio communications.
Operation of this equipment in a residen-
tial area is likely to cause harmful interfer-
ence in which case the user will be
required to correct the interference at his
own expense.
CAUTION:
TO REDUCE THE RISK OF FIRE OR
SHOCK HAZARD AND ANNOYING IN-
TERFERENCE USE THE RECOM-
MENDED ACCESSORIES ONLY.
ARNING: TO REDUCE THE RISK OF
FIRE OR SHOCK HAZARD DO NOT EX-
POSE THIS EQUIPMENT TO RAIN OR
MOISTURE.
1is the safety information.
CAUTION: TO REDUCE THE RISK OF ELECTRIC SHOCK
DO NOT REMOVE COVER (OR BACK).
NO USER-SERVICEABLE PARTS INSIDE.
REFER SERVICING TO QUALIFIED SERVICE PERSONNEL.
CAUTION
RISK OF ELECTRIC SHOCK
DO NOT OPEN
CAUTION:
TO REDUCE THE RISK OF FIRE OR
SHOCK HAZARD, REFER MOUNTING
OF THE OPTIONAL BOARD TO AU-
THORIZED SERVICE PERSONNEL.
CAUTION:
Do not install or place this unit in a book-
case, built-in cabinet or in another confined
space in order to keep well ventilation con-
dition. Ensure that curtains and any other
materials do not obstruct the ventilation
condition to prevent risk of electric shock
or fire hazard due to overheating.
THIS APPARATUS MUST BE GROUNDED
To ensure safe operation the three-pin plug
must be inserted only into a standard three-pin
power outlet which is effectively grounded
through normal house-hold wiring.
Extension cords used with the equipment must
be three-core and be correctly wired to provide
connection to the ground. Incorrectly wired
extension cords can be extremely hazardous.
The fact that the equipment operates satis-
factorily does not imply that it is grounded and
the installation is not necessarily safe. For your
safety if in any doubt about the effective
grounding of the equipment or power outlet
please consult a qualified electrician.

– 3 –
For your safety (Europe)
Caution for AC Mains Lead
FOR YOUR SAFETY PLEASE READ THE FOLLO ING TEXT CAREFULLY.
This product is equipped with 2 types of AC mains cable. One is for continental Europe etc. and the other one
is only for U.K.
Appropriate mains cable must be used in each local area since the other type of mains cable is not suitable.
FOR U.K. ONLY
This appliance is supplied with a moulded three pin
mains plug for your safety and convenience.
A 13 amp fuse is fitted in this plug.
Should the fuse need to be replaced please ensure
that the replacement fuse has a rating of 13 amps and
that it is approved by ASTA or BSI to BS1362.
Check for the ASTA mark Ïor the BSI mark Ìon
the body of the fuse.
If the plug contains a removable fuse cover you must
ensure that it is refitted when the fuse is replaced.
If you lose the fuse cover the plug must not be used
until a replacement cover is obtained.
A replacement fuse cover can be purchased from your
local Panasonic Dealer.
IF THE FITTED MOULDED PLUG IS UNSUITABLE
FOR THE SOCKET OUTLET IN YOUR HOME THEN
THE FUSE SHOULD BE REMOVED AND THE PLUG
CUT OFF AND DISPOSED OF SAFELY. THERE IS A
DANGER OF SEVERE ELECTRICAL SHOCK IF
THE CUT OFF PLUG IS INSERTED INTO ANY
13 AMP SOCKET.
If a new plug is to be fitted please observe the wiring
code as shown below.
If in any doubt please consult a qualified electrician.
WARNING: THIS APPLIANCE MUST BE EARTHED.
IMPORTANT: The wires in this mains lead are
coloured in accordance with the following code:
Green-and-Yellow: Earth
Blue: Neutral
Brown: Live
As the colours of the wires in the mains lead of this
appliance may not correspond with the coloured
markings identifying the terminals in your plug
proceed as follows:
≥The wire which is coloured GREEN-AND-YELLOW
must be connected to the terminal in the plug which
is marked with the letter E or by the Earth symbol Ó
or coloured GREEN or GREEN-AND-YELLOW.
≥The wire which is coloured BLUE must be connected
to the terminal in the plug which is marked with the
letter N or coloured BLACK.
≥The wire which is coloured BROWN must be con-
nected to the terminal in the plug which is marked
with the letter L or coloured RED.
How to replace the fuse
1. Open the fuse compartment with a screwdriver.
2. Replace the fuse.
FOR CONTINENTAL EUROPE, ETC.
Not to be used in the U.K. FOR U.K. ONLY If the plug supplied is not suitable for your socket
outlet it should be cut off and appropriate one
fitted.
Fuse

– 4 –
For your safety (Europe)
Since this VTR is designed for metal tapes only make sure that only the designated tapes are used. An or-
dinary VHS tape cannot be used. Removal of the covers on electrical appliances for maintenance purposes
may lead to electric shocks.
Personnel should therefore adhere strictly to the normal safety precautions.
Some customer-preference switches are located on printed circuit boards within the unit. Be sure to turn off
the power prior to opening the unit before changing the position of any switch and especially before re-
moving or reinserting any circuit board.
∫THIS APPARATUS MUST BE EARTHED
To ensure safe operation the three-pin plug must
be inserted only into a standard three-pin power
point which is effectively earthed through the
normal household wiring.
Extension cords used with the equipment must
be three-core and be correctly wired to provide
connection to earth. Wrongly wired extension
cords are a major cause of fatalities.
The fact that the equipment operates satis-
factorily does not imply that the power point is
earthed and that the installation is completely
safe. For your safety if in any doubt about the
effective earthing of the power point consult a
qualified electrician.
∫DO NOT REMOVE PANEL COVER BY UN-
SCRE ING
To reduce the risk of electric shock do not
remove cover. No user serviceable parts inside.
Operating precaution
Operation near any appliance which generates
strong magnetic fields may give rise to noise in the
video and audio singals. If this should be the case
deal with the situation by for instance moving the
source of the magnetic fields away from the unit
before operation.
CAUTION:
Do not install or place this unit in a bookcase built
in cabinet or in another confined space in order to
keep well ventilated condition. Ensure that curtains
and any other materials do not obstruct the venti-
lation condition to prevent risk of electric shock or
fire hazard due to overheating.
CAUTION:
TO REDUCE THE RISK OF FIRE OR SHOCK
HAZARD REFER CHANGE OF THE
SWITCH SETTING INSIDE THE UNIT TO
AUTHORIZED SERVICE PERSONNEL.
CAUTION:
Even when the Power Switch is in the OFF
position, a small current flows the filter
circuit.
CAUTION:
TO REDUCE THE RISK OF FIRE OR
SHOCK HAZARD, REFER MOUNTING OF
THE OPTIONAL BOARD TO QUALIFIED
SERVICE PERSONNEL.
ARNING:
TO REDUCE THE RISK OF FIRE OR
SHOCK HAZARD, KEEP THIS EQUIPMENT
A AY FROM ALL LIQUIDS-USE AND
STORE ONLY IN LOCATIONS HICH ARE
NOT EXPOSED TO THE RISK OF DRIPPING
OR SPLASHING LIQUIDS, AND DO NOT
PLACE ANY LIQUID CONTAINERS ON TOP
OF THE EQUIPMENT.
CAUTION:
TO REDUCE THE RISK OF FIRE OR
SHOCK HAZARD, AND ANNOYING INTER-
FERENCE, USE THE RECOMMENDED AC-
CESSOIRES ONLY.
1is the safety information.

– 5 –
Contents
For your safety . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 02
Features . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 06
Controls and their functions
≥Front Panel. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 08
≥Connector section . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14
Connections
≥Connections for a single unit . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 18
≥Connections for 2 units . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 19
≥Connection with an editing controller. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 20
Tapes . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 21
Recording. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 22
Playback. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 27
Basic operations. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 28
Manual Editing . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 34
Manual audio cross editing. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 36
Automatic insert/assemble editing . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 37
Audio split editing . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 39
Variable memory Function . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 41
Connector signals. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 43
Video head cleaning. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 48
HD-SD Format converter printed circuit board AJ-UDC3700P. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 49
Rack-mounting . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 52
Troubleshooting . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 53
Dip switch. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 54
Specifications . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 55

– 6 –
Features
This HD VTR is a hi-vision digital VTR for recording and playing back the video and audio signals complying
with BTAS-001A (1125/60 high-definition TV system studio standard) and SMPTE 274M standards.
By image-compressing the hi-vision signals and digitally recording them this unit delivers up to 124 minutes
of recording and playback using a 1/2qcassette (the maximum length with the 1080/23.98p format is
155 minutes.). It is possible to switch between the following system formats to record and play back the sig-
nals in one of these formats: 1080/23.98p (8-channel audio) 1080/24p (8-channel audio) 1080/59.94i
(4-channel audio version) 1080/59.94i (8-channel audio version) 1080/50i (8-channel audio) 720/59.94p
(4-channel audio version) 720/59.94p (8-channel audio version) and 480/59.94i (4-channel audio).
Simultaneous output of HD (hi-vision signals) and SD (standard signals) can be achieved by mounting the
optional format converter board.
The 1080/23.98p and 1080/24p formats use the 1080/23.98psf and 1080/24psf (Progressive Segmented
Frames) functions respectively to separate the frames into two segments every 1/48 of a second and inter-
face the signals.
Picture/sound quality at a reasonable price
≥High picture quality digital recording of signals complying with studio standard
The hi-vision studio standard signals which have been 10-bit quantized using sampling frequencies of
74.25 MHz for Y signals and 37.125 MHz for the PBand PRsignals are image-compressed and digitally
recorded to meet the full range of specifications under the hi-vision studio standard.
Virtually distortion-free recording and playback at a low compression rate–and with a signal-to-noise ratio of
60 dB and a wide band (Y: 30 MHz PB/PR: 15 MHz) which have to date proved difficult to achieve with
analog VTRs using 1/2-inch tapes–are now made possible by utilizing a high recording rate of around
300 Mbps: the result is a consistently high picture quality all the way through from the initial recording to
editing.
≥Compact size, light weight and low power consumption
The unit is compact (height equivalent to 5U depth at 201/2q) lightweight (69.3 lbs) low in power consump-
tion (330 W) (with optional board) and easy to handle.
≥High cost performance
In addition to featuring the basic functions and performance of HDD5 this HDVTR makes it possible to switch
between the 1080/23.98p (8-channel audio) 1080/24p (8-channel audio) 1080/59.94i (4-channel audio
version) 1080/59.94i (8-channel audio version) 1080/50i (8-channel audio) 720/59.94p (4-channel audio
version) 720/59.94p (8-channel audio version) and 480/59.94i (4-channel audio) system formats to record
and play back the signals in one of these formats. Furthermore installation of a format converter board
enables HS and SD signals to be output simultaneously.
≥Digital audio with high sound quality
A high sound quality with a dynamic range of 100 dB is delivered by 20 (24)-bit 48 kHz sampling. Not only
can recording playback and editing be conducted separately for each of the 4 (8) channels but channel mix-
ing is also possible. Moreover one channel is provided for the analog (cue) track. (At 1080/23.98p 1080/24p
and 1080/50i formats 8-channel audio; 24-bit possible at DATA mode.)
With the 1080/59.94i or 720/59.94p system format either the 4-channel 20-bit format or the 8-channel 24-bit
format can be selected. However due caution should be exercised in operation since the recording format
used for the 8-channel audio version and the one used for the 4-channel audio version differ and these dif-
ferences pertain to their video recording areas as well. As such these two system formats are not mutually
compatible.
≥Compact 1/2ztape cassette
Two sizes of cassette [L: 124 minutes (1080/59.94i 720/59.94p and 480i) 149 minutes (1080/50i)
155 minutes (1080/23.98p and 1080/24p) and M: 63 minutes (1080/59.94i 720/59.94p and 480i) can be
used with this unit: this enables the size best suited to the intended application to be selected. The compact
1/2qcassette takes up minimal storage space and offers excellent handling ease.

– 7 –
Features
I/O specifications and interfaces
≥Serial digital I/O facilities
The unit is equipped with hi-vision serial digital interfaces which meet the BTAS-004A S-005A and S-006A
standards and which enable both video and audio signals to be transferred using the same coaxial cable. An
SD (525-line standard TV) serial digital interface is provided for operation with HD/SD mixing.
≥Format converter function
A format converter (AJ-UDC3700P) can be installed in the unit as an option. This facilitates conversion
between HD and SD and it makes the integrated production of Hi-Vision and standard TV broadcast much
simpler.
In addition to the composite analog signals a serial digital interface (SDI signals) which can switch the mul-
tiplex transfer of audio signals ON or OFF is included in the SD output signals. SDI signals enable digital con-
nection to a DVCPRO/D5VTR.
≥AES audio input/output facilities
Separate digital audio inputs and outputs are provided for each of the 4 (8) channels and standard interfac-
ing with a variety of digital audio units is possible. (8 channels with 1080/23.98p 1080/24p and 1080/50i for-
mats. 4 channels/8 channels with 1080/59.94i and 720/59.94p formats.)
≥Remote control
In addition to the standard 9-pin serial (RS-422A) connector 50P parallel and RS-232C connectors are pro-
vided on the unit for remote control. An AV control connector is also featured.
Slow motion, search and editing functions
≥Slow motion/jog
The incorporation of Panasonic’s unique AT (auto tracking) mechanism makes slow-motion playback and
jogging possible at a speed which can be varied from j1kto i2knormal tape speed.
≥50tshuttle search
Shuttle search is possible at up to 50knormal tape speed in the forward or reverse direction.
≥Simultaneous playback monitoring
Simultaneous playback monitoring of video digital audio time code and CTL signals is possible.
≥Automatic editing functions
A full range of editing modes are provided including assemble insert audio split and variable memory.
≥Multi cue points
One hundred cue points can be marked for searches and prerolling.
Operation and maintenance
≥Channel condition monitoring
The error rate is monitored at all times. When the setting is exceeded an indicator on the front panel lights
to warn the operator that the tape is approaching the end of its service life or that the heads are clogged.
≥Built-in test signal generator
Color bar signals and other test signals which come in handy for conducting maintenance and adjustments
and for checking the connections are generated internally.

– 8 –
Controls and their functions
Front panel
0(1) PO ER lamp This lights when the power is turned on.
0(2) PO ER switch When the ON side is pressed the power is turned on; when the OFF side is
pressed the power is turned off.
0(3) AUTO OFF Lamp This lights when trouble has occurred in the unit and operation cannot be conti-
nued without taking any remedial action.
0(4) EJECT button When this button pressed the cassette tape is ejected.
0(5) Cassette holder This is the slot where the 1/2-inch metal cassette tape is loaded.
0(6) Display panel The different kinds of data are displayed on this large 640-dot by 200-line display
panel.
0(7) Function keys Menu function keys F1 to F13 are provided.
0(8) UNITY lamp This lights when all the digital audio output signals are in the UNITY state or when
the audio input/output and the video output are in the UNITY state.
0(9) AUDIO MONITOR ≥These buttons switch the output of the audio monitor connector and headphone
L/R selector buttons ≥jack.
≥They are used to select which of the 5 (9) channel [4 (8) digital audio signal
channels and 1 cue audio signal channel] signals is to be output to L/R.
≥Each time the L (or R) button is pressed the selected output L (or R) signal
changes in the sequence of CH1 CH2 CH3 CH4 (CH5 CH6 CH7 CH8)° and
CUE.
°The channels in parentheses are non-operational when the 4-channel format is
used for the digital audio signals.
≥The channel now selected can be monitored by observing the L and R indica-
tions on the display panel.
≥L and R displays are highlighted corresponding to the channels now selected on
the display panel.
≥Default settings: CH1 for L and CH2 for R.
<Note>
480i format is digital audio 4ch.
1080/23.98p 1080/24p and 1080/50i formats are digital audio 8ch.
Either the 4-channel or 8-channel digital audio signals are selected for the 1080/59.94i or 720/59.94p system
format.
EJECT
SD HD
CHANNEL CONDITION
VIDEO AUDIO
SERVO HOME
ASSEM INSERT
MULTI
CUE
VIDEO
IN
F13
789
456
123
0CTF
F12
F11
F10
F9
F8F7F6F5F4F3F2F1
L
AUDIO MONITORUNITY
HEADPHONES
PULL
OPEN
LEVEL CURSOR
EXECUTE PREROLL ENTRY REW STOP REC/EDITPLAY
REC INHIBIT
STAND BY FF
REVIEW
PREVIEW
R
OUT IN OUT
AUDIO
LINE OUT
SHTL JOG VAR
INPUT CHECK REMOTE
ADJUST
POWER
AUTO OFF
ON
OFF
UNITY
/VAR
TC/CHR SET UP TEST DIAG
FROM COPY
/BS
ENT
AUDIO
PULL
OPEN
(4)
(7)
(8)
(9)
(6) (5) (3) (1)(2)

– 9 –
(10) Headphone jack ≥The stereo headphones are connected to this M6 headphone jack.
(11) Headphone VR ≥This volume control is used to adjust the headphones output level and monitor-
ing output level.
≥The headphone output level and the monitoring output level are interlinked
[when the F7 (A. MONI) key on the AUDIO OUT MONITOR menu is set to
VAR].
(12) CURSOR These keys move the cursor on the display. The center key displays the cursor.
(13) Panel opening ≥The front panel can be opened and closed by pulling the buttons 1and 2 at
buttons ≥the front of the sides.
(14) SD lamp This lamp lights when SD is selected as the recording format.
(15) HD lamp This lamp lights when HD is selected as the recording format.
(16) Error display lamps ≥These lamps light in response to the number of errors.
(channel condition) 1Lights during normal operation (when the error value is minimal).
2Lights when the number of inner errors has increased.
3Lights when the number of video outer errors has increased.
4Lights when the number of audio outer errors has increased.
(17) SERVO lamp ≥This lights when the servo is locked.
EJECT
SD HD
CHANNEL CONDITION
VIDEO AUDIO
SERVO HOME
ASSEM INSERT
MULTI
CUE
VIDEO
IN
F13
789
456
123
0CTF
F12
F11
F10
F9
F8F7F6F5F4F3F2F1
L
AUDIO MONITORUNITY
HEADPHONES
PULL
OPEN
LEVEL CURSOR
EXECUTE PREROLL ENTRY REW STOP REC/EDITPLAY
REC INHIBIT
STAND BY FF
REVIEW
PREVIEW
R
OUT IN OUT
AUDIO
LINE OUT
SHTL JOG VAR
INPUT CHECK REMOTE
ADJUST
POWER
AUTO OFF
ON
OFF
UNITY
/VAR
TC/CHR SET UP TEST DIAG
FROM COPY
/BS
ENT
AUDIO
PULL
OPEN
(14)
(10) (12)(11)
(15)
(13)
(16)
1
1
234
(17)
(13)
2
Controls and their functions
Front panel

– 10 –
Controls and their functions
Front panel
(18) Number keys ≥These are used to enter numbers.
(0 to 9)
≥CClear key for clearing input data.
≥ENT For registering the data which have been entered.
≥FUsed in combination with other keys.
≥BS Backspace key
≥s r Keys for adding and subtracting
≥FROM
≥COPY
≥T
≥/
(19) INPUT CHECK While these keys are kept depressed the input signals can be checked.
It enables the video input signals to be checked at the SD SDI MONITOR OUT
connector or HD SDI MONITOR OUT connector and the audio input signals to be
checked at the MONITOR connector and headphone jack.
When the F7 (TCG OUT) key has been set to MOMNT on the TC/CHR SET UP
menu the INPUT CHECK is established for the time code signals but only while
the INPUT CHECK key is held down. When the INPUT CHECK key is pressed
while the F7 key is set to LATCH the INPUT CHECK mode is established and
the mode remains established even when the key is released. The mode is re-
leased when one of the tape modes is established.
(20) REMOTE button ≥This is the switch for switching between operation from the front panel of the
unit and operation from the remote control terminals (RS-422A RS-232C) at
the rear connector panel.
≥When REMOTE (lamp lit) is selected the recorder can be controlled via the
remote control terminals at the rear connector panel.
≥When LOCAL (lamp not lit) is selected the recorder can be operated from the
front panel.
(21) AUDIO LINE OUT When the ADJUST control (23) is turned while this button is being pressed the
output of all audio channels can be changed at the same time (HOME AUDIO
OUT menus only).
(22) UNITY/VAR This is used to switch between UNITY and VAR when the video output signals or
audio level is to be adjusted.
(23) ADJUST control This is used to adjust the levels.
EJECT
SD HD
CHANNEL CONDITION
VIDEO AUDIO
SERVO HOME
ASSEM INSERT
MULTI
CUE
VIDEO
IN
F13
789
456
123
0CTF
F12
F11
F10
F9
F8F7F6F5F4F3F2F1
L
AUDIO MONITORUNITY
HEADPHONES
PULL
OPEN
LEVEL
CURSOR
EXECUTE PREROLL ENTRY REW STOP REC/EDITPLAY
REC INHIBIT
STAND BY FF
REVIEW
PREVIEW
R
OUT IN OUT
AUDIO
LINE OUT
SHTL JOG VAR
INPUT CHECK REMOTE
ADJUST
POWER
AUTO OFF
ON
OFF
UNITY
/VAR
TC/CHR SET UP TEST DIAG
FROM COPY
/BS
ENT
AUDIO
PULL
OPEN
(18)
(23)
(22)
(21)
(19) (20)

– 11 –
(24) HOME button
(25) MULTI CUE button
(26) ASSEM (ASSEMBLE) button
(27) INSERT button
(28) VIDEO IN
(29) VIDEO OUT
(30) AUDIO IN
(31) AUDIO OUT
(32) TC/CHR
(33) SET UP
(34) TEST
(35) DIAG
EJECT
SD HD
CHANNEL CONDITION
VIDEO AUDIO
SERVO HOME
ASSEM INSERT
MULTI
CUE
VIDEO
IN
F13
789
456
123
0CTF
F12
F11
F10
F9
F8F7F6F5F4F3F2F1
L
AUDIO MONITORUNITY
HEADPHONES
PULL
OPEN
LEVEL CURSOR
EXECUTE PREROLL ENTRY REW STOP REC/EDITPLAY
REC INHIBIT
STAND BY FF
REVIEW
PREVIEW
R
OUT IN OUT
AUDIO
LINE OUT
SHTL JOG VAR
INPUT CHECK REMOTE
ADJUST
POWER
AUTO OFF
ON
OFF
UNITY
/VAR
TC/CHR SET UP TEST DIAG
FROM COPY
/BS
ENT
AUDIO
PULL
OPEN
(32)
(33)
(34)
(35)
(30)
(31)
(29)
(28)
(24)
(25)
(26)
(27)
Controls and their functions
Front panel

– 12 –
(36) SHTL button
(37) JOG button
(38) VAR button
(39) SEARCH dial
(40) EXECUTE button This executes the variable memory operation etc.
(41) REVIE /PREVIE This previews what has been recorded before editing or reviews the recording
button after editing.
(42) PREROLL button (The tape is cued up when the F key and PREROLL keys are pressed.)
(43) ENTRY button
EJECT
SD HD
CHANNEL CONDITION
VIDEO AUDIO
SERVO HOME
ASSEM INSERT
MULTI
CUE
VIDEO
IN
F13
789
456
123
0CTF
F12
F11
F10
F9
F8F7F6F5F4F3F2F1
L
AUDIO MONITORUNITY
HEADPHONES
PULL
OPEN
LEVEL CURSOR
EXECUTE PREROLL ENTRY REW STOP REC/EDITPLAY
REC INHIBIT
STAND BY FF
REVIEW
PREVIEW
R
OUT IN OUT
AUDIO
LINE OUT
SHTL JOG VAR
INPUT CHECK REMOTE
ADJUST
POWER
AUTO OFF
ON
OFF
UNITY
/VAR
TC/CHR SET UP TEST DIAG
FROM COPY
/BS
ENT
AUDIO
PULL
OPEN
(40)(41)(42)(43)
(36)
(37)
(38)
(39)
Controls and their functions
Front panel

– 13 –
(44) RE button
(45) STAND BY button
(46) STOP button
(47) FF button
(48) PLAY button
(49) REC/EDIT button
(50) REC INHIBIT lamp
EJECT
SD HD
CHANNEL CONDITION
VIDEO AUDIO
SERVO HOME
ASSEM INSERT
MULTI
CUE
VIDEO
IN
F13
789
456
123
0CTF
F12
F11
F10
F9
F8F7F6F5F4F3F2F1
L
AUDIO MONITORUNITY
HEADPHONES
PULL
OPEN
LEVEL CURSOR
EXECUTE PREROLL ENTRY REW STOP REC/EDITPLAY
REC INHIBIT
STAND BY FF
REVIEW
PREVIEW
R
OUT IN OUT
AUDIO
LINE OUT
SHTL JOG VAR
INPUT CHECK REMOTE
ADJUST
POWER
AUTO OFF
ON
OFF
UNITY
/VAR
TC/CHR SET UP TEST DIAG
FROM COPY
/BS
ENT
AUDIO
PULL
OPEN
(44)(45)(46)(47)(48)(49)(50)
Controls and their functions
Front panel

– 14 –
Controls and their functions
Connector section
Power supply part
(1) AC IN socket Connect this with the supplied power cable to a power outlet.
(2) FUSE
(3) GND (ground) terminal This terminal serves to reduce the noise when external peripher-
al units are connected. This is not a safety earth.
Digital signal input/output section
(4) SD SDI IN connectors (BNCt2) This is an active through input for SD SDI serial digital signals.
(5) SD SDI OUT1, 2 connectors For output of SD SDI serial digital signals.
(BNCt2)
(6) SD SDI MONITOR OUT connector For output of SD SDI serial digital signals.
(BNCt1) The time code can be superimposed.
(7) SPARE connector (BNCt1) This is a spare connector to which no component is connected.
(8) HD SDI IN connectors (BNCt2) This is an active through input for HD SDI serial digital signals.
(9) HD SDI OUT1, 2, 3 connectors For output of HD SDI serial digital signals.
(BNCt3)
(10) HD SDI MONITOR OUT connector For output of HD SDI serial digital signals.
(BNCt1) The time code can be superimposed.
(11) DIGITAL AUDIO IN CH1/2, CH3/4 Input of digital audio signals according to the AES standard.
(CH5/6, CH7/8)°connectors
(BNCt4)
(12) DIGITAL AUDIO OUT CH1/2, Output of digital audio signals according to the AES standard.
CH3/4 (CH5/6, CH7/8)°
connectors (BNCt4)
°The items in brackets are not operative with 1080/59.94i (4-audio channel version), 720/59.94p (4-audio channel
version) and 480i formats.
CH 1 CH 2 CH 3 CH 4
CH 1 CH 2 CH 3 CH 4 CH 5
CUE L R
OUT
~ AC IN
SIGNAL
GND
IN
OUTPUT
CH CH CH CH
INPUT
CH CH CH CH
HD
HD
REMOTE
IN
ON
OFF
123
(SUPER)
(SUPER)
IN
IN OUT
HD SDISD SDIFMVIDEO OUTREF IN
REF OUT DIGITAL AUDIO
1
OUT1
OUT2 OUT
2
OUT
3
MONITOR
MONITOR
(SUPER)
SPARE
ACTIVE
THROUGH
REMOTE
OUT REMOTE IN/OUT
CONTROL
PANEL
V/A
CONTROL
RS-232C
PARALLEL
IN/OUT
(50P)
SD
SD
SD
ON
OFF
FUSE
125V 5A
AUDIO OUT
AUDIO IN
MONITOR
TIME CODE
ACTIVE
THROUGH
(1) (2) (12) (11) (7)(4)(5)
(6)
(8) (9) (10)
(3)
PUSHPUSH PUSH PUSH PUSH PUSH
75Ω75Ω
3
4
π
1
2
π7
8
π
5
6
π
7
8
π
5
6
π
3
4
π
1
2
π

– 15 –
Analog input/output section
(13) HD REF IN Input of tri-level sync signals as the HD reference signals. A loop-through/75 ≠
connectors termination switch is provided.
(BNCt2)
(14) SD REF IN Input of black burst°1signals as the SD reference signals. A loop-through/75 ≠
connectors termination switch is provided.
(BNCt2)
(15) HD REF OUT Output of HD SYNC (tri-level SYNC).
terminal (BNCt1)
(16) SD REF OUT Output of black burst°2.
terminal (BNCt1)
(17) VIDEO OUT1, 2, 3 Composite video signal output.
connectors For OUT3 superimpose output is also possible.
(BNCt3)
(18) FM (waveform) Signals output to the waveform monitor.
connector
°1hen the normal black burst signal (59.94 Hz) is input as the SD REF signal with the 1080/24p system,
asynchronization and a picture error will result.
°2This signal is not output with the 1080/24p system.
~ AC IN
SIGNAL
GND
OUTPUT
CH CH CH CH
INPUT
CH CH CH CH
HD
HD
REMOTE
IN
ON
OFF
123
(SUPER)
(SUPER)
IN
IN OUT
HD SDISD SDIFMVIDEO OUTREF IN
REF OUT DIGITAL AUDIO
1
OUT1
OUT2 OUT
2
OUT
3
MONITOR
MONITOR
(SUPER)
SPARE
ACTIVE
THROUGH
REMOTE
OUT REMOTE IN/OUT
CONTROL
PAN EL
V/A
CONTROL
RS-232C
PARALLEL
IN/OUT
(50P)
SD
SD
SD
ON
OFF
FUSE
125V 5A
ACTIVE
THROUGH
(15)(13)(14)(16)(17) (18)
CH 1 CH 2 CH 3 CH 4
CH 1 CH 2 CH 3 CH 4 CH 5
CUE L R
OUT
IN
AUDIO OUT
AUDIO IN
MONITOR
TIME CODE
PUSH
PUSH PUSH PUSH PUSH PUSH
75Ω75Ω
3
4
π
1
2
π7
8
π
5
6
π
7
8
π
5
6
π
3
4
π
1
2
π
Controls and their functions
Connector section

– 16 –
Controls and their functions
Connector section
Analog input/output section
(19) AUDIO IN Analog audio signals input to digital audio CH1 to CH4.
connectors
(XLR 3Pt4)
(20) CUE IN connector Audio signal input for the analog cue channel.
(XLR 3P)
(21) TIME CODE IN Time code signal input.
connector (XLR 3P)
(22) AUDIO OUT Analog audio signal output from digital audio CH1 to CH4.
connectors
(XLR 3Pt4)
(23) CUE OUT Audio signal output from the analog cue channel.
connector (XLR 3P)
(24) TIME CODE OUT Time code signal output.
connector
(XLR 3P)
(25) MONITOR OUT These are the audio monitor connectors. L R audio output is made.
connectors Digital audio signals [CH1/CH2/CH3/CH4 (CH5/CH6/CH7/CH8)° ] and cue audio
(XLR 3Pt2) can be selected.
°The items in brackets are not operative with 1080/59.94i (4-audio channel version),
720/59.94p (4-audio channel version) and 480i/59.94i formats.
~ AC IN
SIGNAL
GND
OUTPUT
CH CH CH CH
INPUT
CH CH CH CH
HD
HD
REMOTE
IN
ON
OFF
123
(SUPER)
(SUPER)
IN
IN OUT
HD SDISD SDIFMVIDEO OUTREF IN
REF OUT DIGITAL AUDIO
1
OUT1
OUT2 OUT
2
OUT
3
MONITOR
MONITOR
(SUPER)
SPARE
ACTIVE
THROUGH
REMOTE
OUT REMOTE IN/OUT
CONTROL
PAN EL
V/A
CONTROL
RS-232C
PARALLEL
IN/OUT
(50P)
SD
SD
SD
ON
OFF
FUSE
125V 5A
ACTIVE
THROUGH
(19)
(22) (25)
(20)(21)(24)
(23)
CH 1 CH 2 CH 3 CH 4
CH 1 CH 2 CH 3 CH 4 CH 5
CUE L R
OUT
IN
AUDIO OUT
AUDIO IN
MONITOR
TIME CODE
PUSH
PUSH PUSH PUSH PUSH PUSH
75Ω75Ω
3
4
π
1
2
π7
8
π
5
6
π
7
8
π
5
6
π
3
4
π
1
2
π

– 17 –
Controls and their functions
Connector section
Remote control section
(26) REMOTE IN RS-422A serial mode input connector.
connector
(RS-422A) (9P)
(27) REMOTE OUT RS-422A serial mode output connector.
connector
(RS-422A) (9P)
(28) REMOTE IN/OUT RS-422A serial mode I/O connector.
connector (9P)
(29) V/A CONTROL Encoder remote (AJ-ER50) connector. (see Note)
terminal (15P)
(30) RS-232C Data communication is possible by connection to a personal computer or a
connector (25P) modem.
(31) CONTROL PANEL For connection of the cable of a control panel.
connector (20P) The control panel connector enables the connectors on the front panel and
connectors on the rear panel to be connected and when these connectors are
simultaneously connected it is possible to switch between them using the menu.
(32) PARALLEL 50-pin parallel remote connector.
(IN/OUT) terminal (Mainly for connection of equipment produced by the user.)
(50P)
ONoteN
The AJ-ER50 “Video input” and “VIDEO-PHASE” functions are not operational as there is no correspondence with this
recorder. Also SYS-PHASE should be set at this recorder and not at the AJ-ER50.
~ AC IN
SIGNAL
GND
OUTPUT
CH CH CH CH
INPUT
CH CH CH CH
HD
HD
REMOTE
IN
ON
OFF
123
(SUPER)
(SUPER)
IN
IN OUT
HD SDISD SDIFMVIDEO OUTREF IN
REF OUT DIGITAL AUDIO
1
OUT1
OUT2 OUT
2
OUT
3
MONITOR
MONITOR
(SUPER)
SPARE
ACTIVE
THROUGH
REMOTE
OUT REMOTE IN/OUT
CONTROL
PANEL
V/A
CONTROL
RS-232C
PARALLEL
IN/OUT
(50P)
SD
SD
SD
ON
OFF
FUSE
125V 5A
ACTIVE
THROUGH
(26) (27) (28) (29) (30)
CH 1 CH 2 CH 3 CH 4
CH 1 CH 2 CH 3 CH 4 CH 5
CUE L R
OUT
IN
AUDIO OUT
AUDIO IN
MONITOR
TIME CODE
PUSH
PUSH PUSH PUSH PUSH PUSH
(31) (32)
75Ω75Ω
3
4
π
1
2
π7
8
π
5
6
π
7
8
π
5
6
π
3
4
π
1
2
π

– 18 –
Connections
Connection for a single unit
Press the REMOTE button on the front panel to turn the lamp (LOCAL) off.
~ AC IN
SIGNAL
GND
OUTPUT
CH CH CH CH
INPUT
CH CH CH CH
HD
HD
REMOTE
IN
ON
OFF
123
(SUPER)
(SUPER)
IN
IN OUT
HD SDISD SDIFMVIDEO OUTREF IN
REF OUT DIGITAL AUDIO
1
OUT1
OUT2 OUT
2
OUT
3
MONITOR
MONITOR
(SUPER)
SPARE
ACTIVE
THROUGH
REMOTE
OUT REMOTE IN/OUT
CONTROL
PANEL
V/A
CONTROL
RS-232C
PARALLEL
IN/OUT
(50P)
SD
SD
SD
ON
OFF
FUSE
125V 5A
ACTIVE
THROUGH
CH 1 CH 2 CH 3 CH 4
CH 1 CH 2 CH 3 CH 4 CH 5
CUE L R
OUT
IN
AUDIO OUT
AUDIO IN
MONITOR
TIME CODE
PUSHPUSH PUSH PUSH PUSH PUSH
75Ω75Ω
3
4
π
1
2
π7
8
π
5
6
π
7
8
π
5
6
π
3
4
π
1
2
π
Waveform monitor output
SD SDI input
SD SDI output
HD SDI input
HD SDI output
SD reference input
HD reference input
Digital audio input
Digital audio output
Analog audio/CUE output
Analog audio/CUE input Audio monitor output

– 19 –
Connections
Connection for 2 units
Source side Press the REMOTE button at the front panel to light the lamp (REMOTE).
Recorder side Press the REMOTE button at the front panel to extinguish the lamp (LOCAL).
When performing automatic editing with RS-422A press the F1 (P-2) key at the SET UP
INTERFACE menu to switch. (See figure below)
~ AC IN
SIGNAL
GND
OUTPUT
CH CH CH CH
INPUT
CH CH CH CH
HD
HD
REMOTE
IN
ON
OFF
123
(SUPER)
(SUPER)
IN
IN OUT
HD SDISD SDIFMVIDEO OUTREF IN
REF OUT DIGITAL AUDIO
1
OUT1
OUT2 OUT
2
OUT
3
MONITOR
MONITOR
(SUPER)
SPARE
ACTIVE
THROUGH
REMOTE
OUT REMOTE IN/OUT
CONTROL
PANEL
V/A
CONTROL
RS-232C
PA RALLEL
IN/OUT
(50P)
SD
SD
SD
ON
OFF
FUSE
125V 5A
ACTIVE
THROUGH
CH 1 CH 2 CH 3 CH 4
CH 1 CH 2 CH 3 CH 4 CH 5
CUE L R
OUT
~ AC IN
SIGNAL
GND
IN
OUTPUT
CH CH CH CH
INPUT
CH CH CH CH
HD
HD
REMOTE
IN
ON
OFF
123
(SUPER)
(SUPER)
IN
IN OUT
HD SDISD SDIFMVIDEO OUTREF IN
REF OUT DIGITAL AUDIO
1
OUT1
OUT2 OUT
2
OUT
3
MONITOR
MONITOR
(SUPER)
SPARE
ACTIVE
THROUGH
REMOTE
OUT REMOTE IN/OUT
CONTROL
PAN EL
V/A
CONTROL
RS-232C
PA RALLEL
IN/OUT
(50P)
SD
SD
SD
ON
OFF
FUSE
125V 5A
AUDIO OUT
AUDIO IN
MONITOR
TIME CODE
ACTIVE
THROUGH
PUSHPUSH PUSH PUSH PUSH PUSH
CH 1 CH 2 CH 3 CH 4
CH 1 CH 2 CH 3 CH 4 CH 5
CUE L R
OUT
IN
AUDIO OUT
AUDIO IN
MONITOR
TIME CODE
PUSHPUSH PUSH PUSH PUSH PUSH
75 Ω75Ω
3
4
π
1
2
π
7
8
π
5
6
π
7
8
π
5
6
π
3
4
π
1
2
π
75Ω75Ω
3
4
π
1
2
π
7
8
π
5
6
π
7
8
π
5
6
π
3
4
π
1
2
π
HD reference signal
Source Recorder
HD SDI DIGITAL VIDEO/AUDIO
SD SDI DIGITAL VIDEO/AUDIO
REMOTE
≥When matching the CF (color frame) of SD output and time code output phase also make SD reference
matching. Then select SD REF as the OUT REF setting on the HOME SET UP menu.
F13
F12
F11
F10
F9
F8F7F6F5F4F3F2F1

– 20 –
Connections
Connection with an editing controller
EJECT
SD HD
CHANNEL CONDITION
VIDEO AUDIO
SERVO HOME
ASSEM INSERT
MULTI
CUE
VIDEO
IN
F13
789
456
123
0CTF
F12
F11
F10
F9
F8F7F6F5F4F3F2F1
L
AUDIO MONITORUNITY
HEADPHONES
PULL
OPEN
LEVEL CURSOR
EXECUTE PREROLL ENTRY REW STOP REC/EDITPLAY
REC INHIBIT
STAND BY FF
REVIEW
PREVIEW
R
OUT IN OUT
AUDIO
LINE OUT
SHTL JOG VAR
INPUT CHECK REMOTE
ADJUST
POWER
AUTO OF F
ON
OFF
UNITY
/VAR
TC/CHR SET UP TEST DIAG
FROM COPY
/BS
ENT
AUDIO
PULL
OPEN
EJECT
SD HD
CHANNEL CONDITION
VIDEO AUDIO
SERVO HOME
ASSEM INSERT
MULTI
CUE
VIDEO
IN
F13
789
456
123
0CTF
F12
F11
F10
F9
F8F7F6F5F4F3F2F1
L
AUDIO MONITORUNITY
HEADPHONES
PULL
OPEN
LEVEL CURSOR
EXECUTE PREROLL ENTRY REW STOP REC/EDITPLAY
REC INHIBIT
STAND BY FF
REVIEW
PREVIEW
R
OUT IN OUT
AUDIO
LINE OUT
SHTL JOG VAR
INPUT CHECK REMOTE
ADJUST
POWER
AUTO OF F
ON
OFF
UNITY
/VAR
TC/CHR SET UP TEST DIAG
FROM COPY
/BS
ENT
AUDIO
PULL
OPEN
EJECT
SD HD
CHANNEL CONDITION
VIDEO AUDIO
SERVO HOME
ASSEM INSERT
MULTI
CUE
VIDEO
IN
F13
789
456
123
0CTF
F12
F11
F10
F9
F8F7F6F5F4F3F2F1
L
AUDIO MONITORUNITY
HEADPHONES
PULL
OPEN
LEVEL CURSOR
EXECUTE PREROLL ENTRY REW STOP REC/EDITPLAY
REC INHIBIT
STAND BY FF
REVIEW
PREVIEW
R
OUT IN OUT
AUDIO
LINE OUT
SHTL JOG VAR
INPUT CHECK REMOTE
ADJUST
POWER
AUTO OF F
ON
OFF
UNITY
/VAR
TC/CHR SET UP TEST DIAG
FROM COPY
/BS
ENT
AUDIO
PULL
OPEN
≥Please use LTC: VITCi as the time code setting on the controller side.
≥When 720/59.94p mode has been set input the SD_REF (BB) signal as the reference signal.
Recorder
AV monitor Video monitor
signal
Audio monitor
signal
To REMOTE IN
Video input signal
Audio input signal
Video monitor signal
Audio monitor signal
AV monitor
Editing controller AV switcher
HD reference signal
generator
Remote
Video output signal
Audio output signal
Video output signal
Audio output signal Reference signal
Remote
To REMOTE IN
Source unit
Video monitor signal
Audio monitor signal
Video monitor signal
Audio monitor signal
Reference signal
To REMOTE
IN
AV monitor AV monitor
Source unit
Remote