Sencore TXS 3800 User manual
July 2021
8226 www.sencore.com | 1.605.978.4600 Revision 1.0
TXS 3800
ATSC 3.0 Transcoder
User Manual
TXS 3800 –User Manual
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Copyright
© 2021 Sencore, Inc. All rights reserved.
3200 Sencore Drive, Sioux Falls, SD USA
www.sencore.com
This publication contains confidential, proprietary, and trade secret information. No part of this document may
be copied, photocopied, reproduced, translated, or reduced to any machine-readable or electronic format
without prior written permission from Sencore. Information in this document is subject to change without notice
and Sencore Inc. assumes no responsibility or liability for any errors or inaccuracies. Sencore, Sencore Inc.,
and the Sencore logo are trademarks or registered trademarks in the United States and other countries. All
other products or services mentioned in this document are identified by the trademarks, service marks, or
product names as designated by the companies who market those products. Inquiries should be made directly
to those companies. This document may also have links to third-party web pages that are beyond the control
of Sencore. The presence of such links does not imply that Sencore endorses or recommends the content on
those pages. Sencore acknowledges the use of third-party open source software and licenses in some
Sencore products. This freely available source code can be obtained by contacting Sencore Inc.
About Sencore
Sencore is an engineering leader in the development of high-quality signal transmission solutions for the
broadcast, cable, satellite, IPTV, telecommunications, and professional audio/video markets. The
company’s world-class portfolio includes video delivery products, system monitoring and analysis solutions,
and test and measurement equipment, all designed to support system interoperability and backed by best-
in-class customer support. Sencore meets the rapidly changing needs of modern media by ensuring the
efficient delivery of high-quality video from the source to the home. For more information, visit
www.sencore.com.
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Revision History
Date (MM/DD/YYYY)
Version
Description
Author
07/07/2021
1.0
Initial Release
JDN
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Safety Instructions
•Read these instructions
•Keep these instructions
•Heed all warnings
•Follow all instructions
•Do not use this apparatus near water
•Clean only with dry cloth
•Do not block any ventilation openings. Install in accordance with the
manufacturer’s instructions
•Do not install near any heat sources such as radiators, heat registers, stoves, or
other apparatus (including amplifiers) that produce heat
•Do not defeat the safety purpose of the polarized or grounding-type plug. A
polarized plug has two blades with one wider than the other. A grounding type
plug has two blades and a third grounding prong. The wide blade or the third
prong is provided for your safety. If the provided plug does not fit into your outlet,
consult an electrician for replacement of the obsolete outlet.
•Protect the power cord from being walked on or pinched particularly at plugs,
convenience receptacles, and the point where they exit from the apparatus.
•Only use attachments/accessories specified by the manufacturer.
•Unplug this apparatus during lightning storms or when unused for long periods of
time.
•Refer all servicing to qualified service personnel. Servicing is required when the
apparatus has been damaged in any way, such as power-supply cord or plug 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.
•Do not expose this apparatus to dripping or splashing and ensure that no objects
filled with liquids, such as vases, are placed on the apparatus.
•To completely disconnect this apparatus from the AC Mains, disconnect the
power supply cord plug from the AC receptacle.
•The mains plug of the power supply cord shall remain readily operable.
•Damage Requiring Service: Unplug this product from the wall outlet and refer
servicing to qualified service personnel under the following conditions:
oWhen the power-supply cord or plug is damaged.
oIf liquid has been spilled, or objects have fallen into the product.
oIf the product has been exposed to rain or water.
oIf the product does not operate normally by following the operating
instructions. Adjust only those controls that are covered by the
operating instructions as an improper adjustment of the controls may
result in damage and will often require extensive work by a qualified
technician to restore the product to its normal operation.
oIf the product has been dropped or damaged in any way.
oThe product exhibits a distinct change in performance.
•Replacement Parts: When replacement parts are required, be sure the service
technician uses replacement parts specified by Sencore, or parts having the
same operating characteristics as the original parts. Unauthorized part
substitutions made may result in fire, electric shock or other hazards.
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SAFETY PRECAUTIONS
There is always a danger present when using electronic equipment.
Unexpected high voltages can be present at unusual locations in defective
equipment and signal distribution systems. Become familiar with the equipment
that you are working with and observe the following safety precautions.
•Every precaution has been taken in the design of your product to ensure that it is
as safe as possible. However, safe operation depends on you the operator.
•Always be sure your equipment is in good working order. Ensure that all points
of connection are secure to the chassis and that protective covers are in place
and secured with fasteners.
•Never work alone when working in hazardous conditions. Always have another
person close by in case of an accident.
•Always refer to the manual for safe operation. If you have a question about the
application or operation email ProCare@Sencore.com
•WARNING –To reduce the risk of fire or electrical shock never allow your
equipment to be exposed to water, rain or high moisture environments. If exposed
to a liquid, remove power safely (at the breaker) and send your equipment to be
serviced by a qualified technician.
•To reduce the risk of shock the power supply must be connected to a mains socket
outlet with a protective earthing connection.
•For the mains plug the main disconnect and should remain readily accessible and
operable at all times.
•When utilizing DC power supply, the power supply MUST be used in conjunction
with an over-current protective device rated at 50 V, 5 A, type: Slow-blo, as part of
battery-supply circuit.
•To reduce the risk of shock and damage to equipment, it is recommended to
ground the unit to the installation’s rack, the vehicle’s chassis, the battery’s
negative terminal, and/or earth ground.
Warning: Changes or modifications to this unit not expressly approved by the
party responsible for compliance could void the user’s authority to operate the
equipment.
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Table of Contents
SECTION 1 OVERVIEW.............................................................................................................................. 9
1.1 PRODUCT INTRODUCTION.................................................................................................................. 10
1.2 FRONT PANEL OVERVIEW .................................................................................................................. 10
1.3 REAR PANEL OVERVIEW .................................................................................................................... 11
SECTION 2 INSTALLATION ...................................................................................................................... 12
2.1 RACK INSTALLATION ......................................................................................................................... 13
2.2 AC DUAL REDUNDANT POWER CONNECTIONS....................................................................................... 13
2.3 MAINTENANCE................................................................................................................................ 13
2.4 NETWORK SETUP VIA KVM ............................................................................................................... 13
SECTION 3 WEB-INTERFACE OPERATION................................................................................................ 14
3.1 TXS 3800 WEB INTERFACE OVERVIEW................................................................................................ 15
3.1.1 Logging into the TXS 3800 Web Interface............................................................................... 15
3.1.2 Buttons and Status Indicators................................................................................................. 15
3.2 TRANSCODER PANEL......................................................................................................................... 16
3.2.1 Configuring Active Inputs........................................................................................................ 16
3.2.1.1 ATSC 3.0 RF Input.......................................................................................................................... 17
3.2.1.2 ATSC 3.0 IP Inputs ......................................................................................................................... 18
3.2.2 Configuring Processing and Service Selection......................................................................... 19
3.2.2.1 Service Configuration.................................................................................................................... 20
3.2.2.2 Video Configuration ...................................................................................................................... 22
3.2.2.3 Audio Decoder Configuration........................................................................................................ 23
3.2.2.4 Audio Encoder Configuration........................................................................................................ 25
3.2.2.5 Advanced Configuration................................................................................................................ 28
3.2.3 Configuring Outputs ............................................................................................................... 29
3.2.3.1 Configuring MPEG/IP Outputs....................................................................................................... 29
3.3 ADMIN PANEL................................................................................................................................. 32
3.3.1 Chassis Statistics ..................................................................................................................... 33
3.3.2 Unit Alias................................................................................................................................. 33
3.3.3 Changing Unit Password......................................................................................................... 33
3.3.4 Profiles .................................................................................................................................... 34
3.3.5 Diagnostics.............................................................................................................................. 35
3.3.6 Updating the TXS 3800 ........................................................................................................... 35
3.3.7 Applying Software Updates .................................................................................................... 35
3.3.8 Configuring ATSC 3.0 RF Module ............................................................................................ 37
3.3.9 Rollback Software Updates..................................................................................................... 38
3.3.10 Reboot Unit ........................................................................................................................ 38
3.3.11 Reset to Defaults ................................................................................................................ 39
3.3.12 Configure Unit Networks .................................................................................................... 39
3.3.13 Software Support Agreements ........................................................................................... 41
3.3.14 Date/Time .......................................................................................................................... 41
3.3.15 SNMP Community .............................................................................................................. 42
3.3.16 SNMP Trap Manager.......................................................................................................... 43
3.3.17 Syslog.................................................................................................................................. 43
3.4 REPORTING PANEL ........................................................................................................................... 44
3.4.1 Active Alarms .......................................................................................................................... 44
3.4.2 Event Logs............................................................................................................................... 45
3.4.3 Configuring the Logs ............................................................................................................... 45
3.5 ABOUT PANEL ................................................................................................................................. 47
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SECTION 4 APPENDICES.......................................................................................................................... 49
APPENDIX A –ACRONYMS AND GLOSSARY....................................................................................... 50
APPENDIX B –ERROR AND EVENT LIST.............................................................................................. 51
APPENDIX C –SPECIFICATIONS ......................................................................................................... 52
APPENDIX D –OPEN SOURCE SOFTWARE.......................................................................................... 54
APPENDIX E –WARRANTY ................................................................................................................ 56
APPENDIX F –SUPPORT AND CONTACT INFORMATION ................................................................... 56
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Section 1 Overview
Introduction
This section includes the following topics:
1.1 PRODUCT INTRODUCTION.................................................................................................................. 10
1.2 FRONT PANEL OVERVIEW .................................................................................................................. 10
1.3 REAR PANEL OVERVIEW .................................................................................................................... 11
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1.1 Product Introduction
Sencore’s TXS 3800 ATSC 3.0 transcoder enables users to process up to 4 channels in
a 1RU platform. This transcoder is perfectly suited for retransmission of ATSC 3.0 on
existing cable, IPTV and satellite systems.
The TXS 3800 transcoder includes an ATSC 3.0 RF input for receiving the next-
generation RF signal. Tune to multiple PLPs and transcode up to 4 services. Processed
services are output via MPEG/IP. The configuration is done using the intuitive web GUI
or through APIs like Rest and SNMP.
Every TXS 3800 ships with the software suite pre-loaded on appropriate hardware.
Input Capabilites:
✓1x ATSC 3.0 RF input, multiple PLPs, 1x tuner (TXS 38020)
✓1x ATSC 3.0 RF input, multiple PLPs, 12x tuners (TXS 38021)
✓ATSC 3.0 IP Inputs
o2 per transcoder
Transcoder Output Video Codecs:
✓MPEG-2
✓H.264
Transcoder Output Audio Codecs:
✓MPEG-1/MPEG-2
✓AAC
✓AC-3/E-AC-3
Output Capabilities:
✓MPEG/IP Output Streams
o2 per trancoder
Power Supply:
✓120/240V Switching Power Supplies
✓Redundant power design utilizing two independent cables
1.2 Front Panel Overview
The TXS 3800 product is a software-based solution; designed to run on a PC server
chassis. Initial network configuration is done with keyboard, monitor, and mouse. Once
the IP is configured all operation and setup is via web-interface over a network.
To obtain the associated documentation from the server manufacturer or detailed
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1.3 Rear Panel Overview
The TXS 3800 servers include dual network ports on the motherboard. Either port can
be used to access the web-interface.
For Decoding 1xATSC 3.0 Input
1. Eth0: One of two available RJ45 Ethernet ports for management, and/or ATSC 3.0 IP
input, and/or MPEG over IP output
2. Eth1: One of two available RJ45 Ethernet ports for management, and/or ATSC 3.0 IP
input, and/or MPEG over IP output
3. Local monitor output uses VGA (D-SUB) connector
*VGA and keyboard are only used for setting the network configuration; operation of the device is performed through the web interface
4. Redundant power supplies (120/240 AC Switching PS)
5. ATSC 3.0 RF input port
1
2
3
1
4
5
1
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Section 2 Installation
Introduction
This section includes the following topics:
2.1 RACK INSTALLATION ......................................................................................................................... 13
2.2 AC DUAL REDUNDANT POWER CONNECTIONS....................................................................................... 13
2.3 MAINTENANCE................................................................................................................................ 13
2.4 NETWORK SETUP VIA KVM ............................................................................................................... 13
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2.1 Rack Installation
The TXS 3800 software product runs on Supermicro brand hardware. Please consult
the Supermicro SC514 Series Revision 1.0 user manual for complete detail on the
rack installation and power cable connections.
https://www.supermicro.com/manuals/chassis/1U/SC514.pdf
2.2 AC Dual Redundant Power Connections
The Dual, Redundant power supplies allow the TXS 3800 to be powered with 120V or
240V systems. The power supply will automatically detect the system it is connected
to. To connect the power, use the following steps:
1. Locate the AC power cords that are included.
2. Plug the female end of the power cords (end with no prongs) into the back of the unit.
3. Locate a protected outlet (usually inside of the rack) to plug the male ends of the power
cables into.
2.3 Maintenance
Refer to the server manufacturer documentation for detailed information regarding
server hardware maintenance.
To request a copy of the latest TXS 3800 software or release notes from Sencore
email ProCare@Sencore.com
2.4 Network Setup via KVM
Connect the VGA (D-SUB) cable to a monitor and a USB keyboard.
The VGA will display the current ethernet settings and provide a text-based menu to
configure IP addressing, Subnet Mask, Gateway, and DNS settings.
Sencore recommends configuring the eth0 port (Leftmost NIC when facing the rear of
the unit) be set to astatic IP for web-interface access. Ensure the user machine is also
on the same network.
For additional information on initial network configuration menu see the Sencore TXS
3800 Quick Start Guide documentation.
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Section 3 Web-Interface Operation
Introduction
This section includes the following topics:
3.1 TXS 3800 WEB INTERFACE OVERVIEW................................................................................................ 15
3.2 TRANSCODER PANEL......................................................................................................................... 16
3.3 ADMIN PANEL................................................................................................................................. 32
3.4 REPORTING PANEL ........................................................................................................................... 44
3.5 ABOUT PANEL ................................................................................................................................. 47
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3.1 TXS 3800 Web Interface Overview
3.1.1 Logging into the TXS 3800 Web Interface
To open the TXS 3800 web interface, use one of the following supported browsers and
navigate to the unit’s IP address:
•Internet Explorer
•Firefox
•Google Chrome
•Microsoft Edge
The user will need to login to the web interface. By default, the admin user account is
available with the password below. Press the login button in order to login to the web
interface.
Default Credentials
Username: admin
Password: mpeg101
3.1.2 Buttons and Status Indicators
When the icon is shown user configuration is available. Clicking this button will open
configuration menus where settings can be changed by the user.
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When the icon is shown additional status information can be viewed. Click this button
will expand the menu to display the additional status information. All text in status menus
shown in ORANGE are user configurable settings. Text shown in BLUE is not user
configurable and is strictly a status or value. To minimize the status windows again click
the icon.
Status in the TXS 3800 web interface is shown with LED status indicators:
Green LED
Status is good. No errors are present and function is operating
normally.
Red LED
Status indicates function is affected by active error. To view
the errors, navigate to Alarms panel to view Active Errors.
Grey LED
Status is inactive. Function is currently disabled or
unavailable.
3.2 Transcoder Panel
The Transcoder panel of the TXS 3800 web interface is used to configure the unit to
transcode and what output format to use. Each functional piece has a heading: Inputs,
Processing, and Outputs sections are listed from the top down.
3.2.1 Configuring Active Inputs
This menu allows the user to configure the active input. Input options include ATSC 3.0
RF Port 1, ATSC 3.0 IP Input 1, and ATSC 3.0 IP Input 2.
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Each ATSC 3.0 IP Input can be configured to use either Eth0 or Eth1 ports on the back
of the chassis.
ATSC 3.0 RF will use the only available RF port on the installed RF card.
Setting
Range
Description
Input
None
ATSC 3.0 RF Module 1
Port 1
ATSC 3.0 IP Input 1
ATSC 3.0 IP Input 2
This setting allows the user to select the
input mode.
3.2.1.1 ATSC 3.0 RF Input
Once the TXS 3800 is locked on an ATSC 3.0 RF signal, the indicator light on the right
will turn green, and the received bitrate is displayed. RF Level, MER, Pre-LDPC BER,
Post-BCH FER are shown under Status. Statistics are displayed representing Relock
Counts and FEC Block Errors in the RF stream. These counters can be manually reset
using the Reset Counters button. The last reset of these error counters is displayed in a
date/time format. The desired status of an individual PLP ID is selectable under the PLP
& Subframe Status. You can see the Number of PLPs and Subframes in the RF stream.
When a PLP is selected, that PLP’s Modulation, Code rates, FEC Type, and Size will
populate the PLP Subframe Status. See section 373.3.8 for configuring the ATSC 3.0
RF card.
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The TXS 3800 can also display the individual Program/Service numbers by clicking on
the Table Viewer hyperlink.
3.2.1.2 ATSC 3.0 IP Inputs
When either ATSC 3.0 IP Inputs are selected as the active input click on the IP address
and gear icon should be visible. Clicking on the gear allows the user to configure the
desired input port and network destination parameters.
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Setting
Range
Description
State
Enabled
Disabled
This setting allows the user to enable or
disable these input stream settings
Interface
eth0
eth1
The physical connector on the TXS 3800
chassis that will be used to receive the
input
LLS Address
224.0.0.0 –239.255.255.255
LLS is the Low-Level Signalling table
that is the index for the location of the
rest of the data related to this ATSC 3.0
stream. The LLS Address by default is
224.0.23.60. This address field must
point to the LLS for the stream to be
received
Port
0 - 65535
This is the UDP port the source device is
sending to. The default for LLS is 4937
Once the TXS 3800 is locked onto an ATSC 3.0 IP input signal, the indicator light on the
right will turn green, and the received bitrate is displayed.
3.2.2 Configuring Processing and Service Selection
This menu allows the user to configure which service the TXS 3800 will transcode, video
processing settings, and audio processing settings.
When the TXS 3800 begins processing a service, the Video dropdown status will report
HDR wide color gamut metadata and closed captioning.
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3.2.2.1 Service Configuration
In this menu, the active input can be assigned to the service selection menu for
processing via PID-based selection. Once a Service is selected, the selected service’s
PIDs will display under the Configure PIDs section.
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