Plura SC series Setup guide

Installation and Operating Manual
Version: 3.2
March 20, 2015
Studio Clocks
PLURA SC Series Clocks

Installation and Operating Manual Studio Clocks
Page 3
CONTENTS
A1 REVISION HISTORY
A2 COPYRIGHT
A3 WARRANTY
A4 UNPACKING/SHIPPING/REPACKAGING INFORMATION
A5 SAFETY INSTRUCTIONS
A6 CERTIFICATIONS & COMPLIANCES
FUNCTIONAL DESCRIPTION 10
INTRODUCTION 10
MODELS 12
ACCESSORIES 13
UD-EP: External AC/DC Power Supply 13
UD-PoE: Power over Ethernet 13
INTERFACES 14
LTC/MTD 14
RS232/RS422 14
Ethernet 15
Impulse Telegram: 2–Wire and 4–Wire Interface 15
OPERATIONAL FEATURES 16
The “Hand Detect” Procedure 16
Synchronizing to the Reference Input 16
Error Indication by an Error LED 17
Backlight 17
CONFIGURATION 18
The UD/SC Configuration Program 18
“Profile“ Tab: Reset to a Basic Configuration 19
“System“ Tab: View and Change System Parameters 20
“Source“ Tab: Select the Signal Source 22
“LTC“ Tab: Set-Up of the LTC Reader 23
“Serial“ Tab: Set-Up of the Serial Interface 24
“Ethernet“ Tab: : IP Addresses ... 25
“Real-Time“ Tab: Set the Time Zone Parameters 27
“Clock“ Tab: Select the Time, Backlight ... 29
FIRMWARE UPDATE 31
TECHNICAL DATA 32
CONNECTIONS AT THE REAR 32
SPECIFICATIONS 34
AC/DC POWER SUPPLIES 39
UD-EP: External Power Adapter 39
Safety Precautions 40
INSTALLATION 42
TERMINAL BLOCK CONNECTIONS 42
WALL MOUNTING 43

Installation and Operating Manual Studio Clocks
Page 4
A1 Revision History
No.
Date
Subject
0.x
Preliminary documents, changes without notice.
1.0
October 21, 2008
First released document.
1.1
January 06, 2009
2–wire interface: cable length revised.
Chapter “Configuration” added.
SC305E.
1.2
February 19, 2009
SC304L.
1.3
November 30, 2009
2–wire interface with loop-through capability.
More features for configuration.
2.0
September 22, 2010
Completely revised.
3.0
November 09, 2011
Specification revised.
3.1
August 10, 2012
Page layout revised.
3.2
April 02, 2014
Chapter “System Tab: View and Change System Parameters”: added note if password is lost.
A2 Copyright
Copyright © PLURA Europe GmbH 2002. All rights reserved. No part of this publication may
be reproduced, translated into another language, stored in a retrieval system, or transmitted,
in any form or by any means, electronic, mechanical, photocopying, recording, or otherwise
without the prior written consent of PLURA Europe GmbH.
Printed in Germany.
Technical changes are reserved.
All brand and product names mentioned herein are used for identification purposes only, and
are trademarks or registered trademarks of their respective holders.
Information in this publication replaces all previously published information. PLURA Europe
GmbH assumes no responsibility for errors or omissions. Neither is any liability assumed for
damages resulting from the use of the information contained herein.
For further information please contact your local dealer or:
PLURA Europe GmbH
Muehlweg 11
D-73433 Aalen
Phone: ++49 - (0)7361 –589 46 0
Fax: ++49 - (0)7361 –589 46 55
E-Mail: [e-mail]
Internet: http://www.plura.tv

Installation and Operating Manual Studio Clocks
Page 5
A3 Warranty
PLURA warrants that their products will be free from defects in materials and workmanship
for a period of two years from the date of shipment. If this product proves defective during
the warranty period, PLURA, at its option, will repair or replace the defective product without
charge, provided this product are returned to PLURA freight prepaid.
In order to obtain service under this warranty, Customer must notify PLURA of the defect
before expiration of the warranty period and make suitable arrangements for the perfor-
mance of service. Customer shall be responsible for packaging and shipping the defective
product to PLURA, please notice the Shipping Information given below.
This warranty shall not apply to any defect, failure or damage caused by abuse, misuse,
improper use, negligence, accident, modification, alteration, or improper or inadequate
maintenance and care.
This warranty is given by PLURA with respect to this product in lieu of any other warranties,
express or implied. PLURA and its vendors disclaim any implied warranties of merchantability
or fitness for a particular purpose. PLURA’s responsibility to repair or replace defective
products is the sole and exclusive remedy provided to the customer for breach of this
warranty. PLURA and its vendors will not be liable for any indirect, special, incidental, or
consequential damages irrespective of whether PLURA or the vendor has advance notice of
the possibility of such damages.

Installation and Operating Manual Studio Clocks
Page 6
A4 Unpacking/Shipping/Repackaging Information
This product has been carefully inspected, tested and calibrated before shipment to ensure
years of stable and trouble-free service.
The shipping carton and pads provide protection for the product during transit. Retain the
shipping cartons in case subsequent shipment becomes necessary.
Carefully unpack the product from its transit material and carefully check the product for
signs of damage. In the event that the product has been damaged during transit, contact the
carrier and your PLURA dealer.
Please confirm that all items listed on the packing list have been received. Check the items
against your original order to ensure that you have received the correct parts. If any item is
missing, please contact your PLURA dealer.
Ensure that all packaging material is removed from the product and its associated com-
ponents before installing the unit.
Products returned to PLURA for servicing or repair should have a tag attached showing:
Name and complete address of the owner and the name of the person that can be
contacted.
Unit’s serial number and a description of the service required or failure detected.
Products returned should be shipped prepaid in the original packaging material if possible. If
the original packaging is not available or is unfit for use, supply an adequate packaging
which should meet the following criteria:
Packaging must be able to withstand the product weight.
Product must be held rigid within the packaging.
Allow at least two inches of space between the product and the container.
The corners of the product must be protected.
Seal the carton with shipping tape or an industrial stapler.
If the product is still within the warranty period, the product will be returned by prepaid
shipment after servicing.

Installation and Operating Manual Studio Clocks
Page 7
A5 Safety Instructions
The general safety information in this part is for both operating and service personnel. PLURA
products are only to be used as directed. Specific warnings and cautions will be found
throughout the manual where they apply.
Review the following safety instructions to avoid injury and prevent damage to this product
or any products connected to it.
Read these instructions.
Keep these instructions.
Heed all warnings.
Follow all instructions.
Safety Terms and Symbols
Terms and Symbols in this manual:
CAUTION: Caution statements identify conditions or practices that could
result in damage to this product or other property.
Terms and Symbols which may be found on the product:
ATTENTION: Refer to the manual.
Observe precautions for handling electrostatic-sensitive devices.
Signal Ground.
Product Damage Precautions
PREVENT OVERHEATING
To prevent product overheating, position the unit only where sufficient air
circulation can be maintained. Good air circulation is essential to prevent
internal heat build-up, do not block any ventilation openings. Do not expose
the unit to direct sun light or any other strong lights. Keep the unit away from
heat sources.
PROVIDE PROPER ENVIRONMENT
Dust, humidity, shocks and strong electromagnetic fields must be avoided. Do
not expose this apparatus to dripping or splashing water. Ensure that no
objects filled with liquid are placed on the apparatus.

Installation and Operating Manual Studio Clocks
Page 8
OBSERVE EMC REGULATIONS
The EMC regulations are observed only under the following condition: use
high quality shielded cables at data inputs and outputs.
SUSPECTED FAILURES
Whenever it is likely that safe operation is impaired, the apparatus must be
made inoperative and secured against unintended operation. The
appropriate service authority must then be informed. Do not operate with
suspected failures. Servicing is required when the apparatus has been
damaged in any way, such as power-supply is damaged, liquid has been
spilled or objects have fallen into the apparatus, the apparatus has been
exposed to rain or moisture, does not operate normally, or has been dropped.
PREVENTIVE MAINTENANCE: CLEANING
Qualified Service Personnel Only: The apparatus should be cleaned often
enough to prevent dust or dirt from accumulating. Dust accumulating in the
apparatus acts as an insulating blanket, preventing proper cooling, and
possibly causing overheating and component breakdown. Under high
humidity conditions, accumulated dust can also provide an electrical
conduction path. Remove accumulated dust with a soft cloth or small paint
brush. Remove hardened dirt with a soft cloth, dampened in a mild detergent
and water solution. Do not use polish or abrasive cleaners or any other
chemical cleaning agents.
PREVENTIVE MAINTENANCE: VISUAL INSPECTION
Qualified Service Personnel Only: Visually inspect the apparatus for signs of
damage, scorched components, and loose or disconnected pin connectors. If
you discover heat damaged parts, try to determine the cause of the over-
heating before replacing the damaged parts; otherwise, the damage may
repeat.
ATTENTION:
Observe precautions for handling electrostatic-sensitive devices. See “Electro
Static Discharge (ESD) Precautions” below for details.

Installation and Operating Manual Studio Clocks
Page 9
Electro Static Discharge (ESD) Precautions
All semiconductor devices are sensitive to ESD. To prevent any damage or
degradation on components of the product caused by ESD, observe these
precautions when directed to do so (installing, removing sensitive compo-
nents):
1. Use a Ground Strap. Wear a grounded anti-static wrist or heel strap to discharge the
static voltage from your body.
2. Use a Safe Work Area. Avoid handling components in areas that have a floor or work sur-
face covering capable of generating a static charge. Also nothing capable of generating
or holding a static charge should be allowed in the work area.
3. Handle ESD sensitive components carefully. Do not slide components over any surface.
Do not touch exposed connector pins. Pick-up components by the body, never by the
leads.
4. Transport and store sensitive components or assemblies in a static-protected bag or
container.
A6 Certifications & Compliances
CE-Declaration:
We,
PLURA Europe GmbH
Muehlweg 11
D-73433 Aalen
herewith declare under our sole responsibility that the
Studio Clocks, SC Series Clocks
meet the intent of the following directives, standards and specifications:
2004/108/EC EMC Directive
applying the following standards:
EN 55022:2006 Emission
EN 55024:1998 + A1:2001 + A2:2003 Immunity

Installation and Operating Manual Studio Clocks
Page 10
Functional Description
Introduction
These are the common features of our studio clocks:
Completely self-setting.
Maintenance free operation.
Ultra quiet action.
2-motor drive.
Stepping second and minute hand.
USB interface for setup and firmware flash updates.
The studio clocks adjust their time to an external reference. Various interfaces are available.
Studio clocks of version “L“:
can be integrated in the MTD system of type LTC(MTD)/RS485(MTD),
can read LTC and use this LTC as a reference for a real-time operating mode,
can receive a time via serial interface.
Studio clocks of version “E“:
can be integrated in the MTD system of type MTDoE,
can operate as an NTP Client and synchronize to an NTP Server.
Studio clocks of version “T“:
receive power and time via a 2–wire interface.
The MTD system:
PLURA has developed a system called the Multiple Time Display (MTD) system. An MTD
system consists of a central generator unit, control units, digital displays and/or studio clocks.
The central MTD generator (RUB GT or RUB GL module) is the time & date reference and
manages stop timers.
The MTD data of the central generator include six independent programmable timers (stop
timers, time zones), real-time, date and status data.
The LTC(MTD)/RS485(MTD) system: The MTD generator outputs a specific LTC format which
is referred to as LTC(MTD) in this document. LTC(MTD) fully complies to the SMPTE
12M specification for Linear Time Code. The time addresses can be decoded by every
time code reader, only the binary groups (32 user bits) carry multiplexed data which
can be decoded by PLURA units only. The LTC(MTD) transfers data to studio clocks of
version “L”.
The MTDoE system: This system utilizes the Ethernet to transport the MTD data as well as to
communicate between control units and central generator. The central generator
transmits the MTD data to the RUB IE (with option M) Ethernet module via the internal
TC_link interface of the RUBIDIUM system, the RUB IE module then opens the gates to
the local Ethernet. Studio clocks of version “E” read these data and communicate via
Ethernet. PLURA’s MTDoE devices have the property to perform an auto-installation
within an Ethernet network, i.e. the units find them selves, assign them selves to a
group and can be listed, named and configured centrally.

Installation and Operating Manual Studio Clocks
Page 11
Please refer to “The MTD System –Installation and Operation Manual” to read about
installation and basic set-up of SC studio clocks in an MTD system.

Installation and Operating Manual Studio Clocks
Page 12
Models
The models differ by their housings, interfaces, battery-buffered real time clock (RTC), and
some optoelectronic outfits:
Interfaces
Model
Housing
LTC
MTD
Ethernet
2–Wire
RTC
AM/PM
Indicator
Back
light
Error
LED
SC303L
square
yes
no
no
yes
yes
yes
yes
SC304L
square
yes
no
no
yes
no
yes
yes
SC305L
square
yes
no
no
yes
no
no
no
SC303E
square
no
yes
no
yes
yes
yes
yes
SC304E
square
no
yes
no
yes
no
yes
yes
SC305E
square
no
yes
no
yes
no
no
no
SC306T
round
no
no
yes
no
no
no
no

Installation and Operating Manual Studio Clocks
Page 13
Accessories
UD-EP: External AC/DC Power Supply
This is a 24V/20W AC/DC power adapter. See chapter “Technical Data →AC/DC Power
Supplies →UD-EP: External Power Adapter” for detailed description.
This will be the right external AC/DC adapter for all studio clocks equipped with the 2-pole
DC connector.
UD-PoE: Power over Ethernet
Power over Ethernet or PoE technology describes a system to pass electrical power, along
with data, on Ethernet cabling.
In the case your network devices cannot supply PoE it is possible to use a PoE injector. This
keeps the advantage to have only one cable connected to your studio clock.

Installation and Operating Manual Studio Clocks
Page 14
Interfaces
LTC/MTD
Devices with this interface accept a standard LTC (SMPTE/EBU) signal as a time reference.
Refer to chapter “Technical Data” for LTC input specifications.
Connect a balanced or unbalanced signal:
Balanced Unbalanced
12
3
XLR3M
MTD
LTC
123 45
LTC_IN_A
LTC_IN_B
GND
Cinch/RCA/BNC
MTD
LTC
123 45
LTC_IN_A
LTC_IN_B
GND
PLURA has developed a system called the (MTD) Multiple Time Display system. A MTD
system consists of a central generator unit, user console(s), digital displays and/or analogue
clocks. The central generator unit generates and outputs a special LTC format. This LTC will
henceforth be denoted as LTC(MTD). The LTC(MTD) contains real-time, date and various user
selectable/configurable timers. Having the LTC(MTD) connected the device can be switched
to various operating modes (please refer to chapter “Clock Tab”).
RS232/RS422
Serial interface, selectable as RS232 or RS422. Devices with this interface decode a time out
of a serial data string. Various data formats can be selected (chapter ‘”Serial” Tab: Set-Up of
the Serial Interface’).
Examples:
RS232 RS422
6: TxD
5: RxD
4: RTS
3: CTS
2:
1: GND
2: RxD
3: TxD
8: CTS
7: RTS
5: GND
PC
RS232
ComPort
SC
RS232
RS422
SC
RS232
RS422
6: TA-
5: RB+
4: RA-
3: TB+
2:
1: GND
RA-
TB+
TA-
RB+
TxC
RxC
RS422
Device

Installation and Operating Manual Studio Clocks
Page 15
Ethernet
10/100Base-T Ethernet interface. Devices with this interface work either as a NTP Client or as
a part of the MTDoE System.
NTP Client: The “Network Time Protocol” (NTP) is used for time synchronization within
networks. NTP servers are queried by NTP clients, which then can synchronize their
internal clocks accordingly. SC studio clocks operating in this mode can connect to such a
server and synchronize to it.
MTDoE System: PLURA has developed a system called the Multiple Time Display (MTD)
system. An MTD system consists of a central generator unit, control units, digital displays
and/or studio clocks. The central MTD generator (RUB GT or RUB GL module) is the time &
date reference and manages the stop timers. The MTDoE system utilizes the Ethernet to
transport the MTD data. SC studio clocks operating in this mode can receive these data
and synchronize to an MTD time.
Impulse Telegram: 2–Wire and 4–Wire Interface
The clocks receive power and data via a 2–wire interface. The “TELEGRAM“ output of a
RUBIDIUM distribution module transmits the appropriate time telegram, i.e. negative going
pulses each second. The complete data set (i.e. time, date, check and synchronization bits) is
spread over one full minute. Connect the wires (e.g. of type J-Y(ST)Y) at a terminal block
located at the rear. You cannot damage the clock by a reverse polarity, because the wires are
interchangeable.
It is provided to connect a 4–wire interface instead of 2–wire. The 4–wire interface has
separate DC and data lines. In this case the wires are not interchangeable. The use of 2–wire
or 4–wire can be selected by a jumper.
2–wire
4–wire
Jumper setting and
connections at the
SIGNAL/DC
connector.
Jumper fitted.
12 3 4
SIGNAL/DC
Jumper
Signal +
Signal -
Telegram
Loop-through
tofurther clocks
Connect: 1: Loop of pin 2
2: Signal+
3: Signal–
4: Loop of pin 3
Jumper removed.
1234
SIGNAL/DC
Jumper V-
Signal - (GND)
Signal +
V+
Connect: 1: V+
2: Signal+
3: Signal–
4: V–
Refer to chapter “Technical Data” for more detailed specifications.

Installation and Operating Manual Studio Clocks
Page 16
Operational Features
The “Hand Detect” Procedure
Studio clocks are equipped with a sensor which can detect the six o’clock position of the
hands. During the “hand detect” procedure the hands will be moved rapidly (≈ 3 Hz). There is
one motor for the second’s hand and one motor for the minute’s and hour’s hands. The pro-
cedure starts a few seconds after power-on.
In the first step the second’s hand will be moved to pass the sensor. If the sensor was able to
detect the second’s hand the hand now will be moved to the 12 o’clock position. In case the
sensor could not detect the second’s hand after 60 steps it is assumed that the sensor is
covered by the minute’s or the hour’s hand. So these hands will be moved a bit, then the
procedure starts again.
Next the position of the minute’s hand has to be detected. Both the minute’s and the hour’s
hands will start to move. Because the minute’s hand gives a short signal to the sensor com-
pared to the hour’s hand it is possible to distinguish between these two hands. After success-
fully detected the minute’s hand the position of the hour’s hand has to be detected. Now
every time the minute’s hand passes the 12 o’clock position it stops for one second
indicating that its position has been verified. After successfully detected the hour’s hand the
hands will show six or seven o’clock.
Under normal circumstances the duration of the whole procedure will be nine minutes
maximum.
Synchronizing to the Reference Input
Having an external time reference connected (see chapter “interfaces”) the studio clock
synchronizes its internal clock to this reference during the “hand detect” procedure. So just
after detecting the positions of the hands the studio clock moves the hands to the correct
time.
Without an external reference the behaviour depends on the model. Models with built-in real
time clock (RTC) will show the time of the RTC. Models without RTC or with a faulty RTC will
just wait for a reference, so the hands will not move after the “hand detect” procedure.
If the external reference gets lost during normal operation the clock continues the time with
its internal clock.

Installation and Operating Manual Studio Clocks
Page 17
Error Indication by an Error LED
Some models indicate an error
by a red LED at the front.
This LED lights up in case of a
source failure.
Models until Oct. 2011
Alpermann +Velte
Models from Nov. 2011
Alpermann +Velte
Backlight
Some models have a backlight of white LEDs. The brightness can be adjusted via
configuration –please refer to chapter “Configuration” – “’Clock’ tab ...”.
Models from November 2011 additionally offer two buttons. Please use a small tool to reach
the button inside the opening. Button left = increase brightness; button right = decrease
brightness.

Installation and Operating Manual Studio Clocks
Page 18
Configuration
The UD/SC Configuration Program
Configuration requires the UD SC Config.exe program running on a computer (32 or 64 bit
Windows operating system 2000/XP/2003/Vista/2008/7). You can download the latest
version of the program from:
http://plura.tv/service/688).
Every SC device can be configured via a USB interface. “E” version devices can be configured
via Ethernet as well; the computer then must be connected to the network. Access via
Ethernet can be protected by a password (chapter “System Tab”). Firmware update is
performed by this program as well, but this requires the USB connection (chapter “Firmware
Update”).
USB connection requires a standard USB cable (A –B type). It is recommended but not
needed to have the device connected to an external power supply. If no power supply is
connected, the device can be configured as usual, but the device will stay in a shut-off mode,
regardless of current set-up. The first time the device is plugged to the PC, Windows will
install a driver for it. This driver is part of Windows, you don’t need a CD.
After program start a list is given of all devices found:
Open the configuration by marking the device on the list and pressing button “Configure”, or
by a double click on a device in the list. Additional tabs will be shown. On these tabs you can
check or change the configuration of the selected device as described in the following
chapters.

Installation and Operating Manual Studio Clocks
Page 19
“Profile“ Tab: Reset to a Basic Configuration
With a click on the Load button the Load Profile window opens.
Click on OK to set the device into a basic configuration.

Installation and Operating Manual Studio Clocks
Page 20
“System“ Tab: View and Change System Parameters
Unit
Name Give the device a significant name. This name appears wherever SC devices can
be found, either via Browser or via USB.
Enter a text (10 characters) in the Name field. Complete with Enter or Tab key.
Reboot Warm boot of the unit.
Security –available only for “E” version devices
It is provided to protect the unit against non permission or unintentional access via Ethernet.
Any configuration with a USB connection ignores the password.
With a click on the Change button the following entry opens:
Enter the password twice and press the OK button.
Clear an existing password by checking No Password.
Password forgotten? →Please read chapter “Passwords” of “The MTD System” manual.
Info