Sonifex Redbox RB-VHDMA8 Instruction Manual

Redbox Embedders
& De-Embedders
User Handbook
RB-VHDMA8 3G/HD/SD-SDI De-Embedder, 8 Channel
Analogue Outputs
RB-VHEMA8 3G/HD/SD-SDI Embedder, 8 Channel Analogue
Inputs
RB-VHCMA4 3G/HD/SD-SDI Embedder & De-Embedder,
4 Channel Analogue I/O
RB-VHCMD16 3G/HD/SD-SDI Embedder & De-Embedder,
16 Channel Digital I/O

bRedbox Embedder/De-embedder User Handbook
REDBOX EMBEDDER/DE-EMBEDDER USER HANDBOOK
This handbook is for use with the following products:
RB-VHDMA8 3G/HD/SD-SDI De-Embedder, 8 Channel Analogue Outputs
RB-VHEMA8 3G/HD/SD-SDI Embedder, 8 Channel Analogue Inputs
RB-VHCMA4 3G/HD/SD-SDI Embedder & De-Embedder, 4 Channel Analogue I/O
RB-VHCMD16 3G/HD/SD-SDI Embedder & De-Embedder, 16 Channel Digital I/O
©Sonifex Ltd, 2009-2013
All Rights Reserved
Revision V1.04, May 2013
Sonifex Ltd, 61, Station Road, Irthlingborough,
Northants, NN9 5QE, England.
Tel: [phone]
Fax: [phone]
Email: [email protected].uk
Website: http://www.sonifex.co.uk
Information in this document is subject to change without notice and does not represent a commitment on the part of
the vendor. Sonifex Ltd shall not be liable for any loss or damage whatsoever arising from the use of information or any
error contained in this manual.
No part of this manual may be reproduced or transmitted in any form or by any means, electronic or mechanical,
including photocopying, recording, information storage and retrieval systems, for any purpose other than the purchaser’s
personal use, without the express written permission of Sonifex Ltd. Unless otherwise noted, all names of companies,
products and persons contained herein are part of a completely ctitious adaptation and are designed solely to
document the use of Sonifex product.
REDBOX EMBEDDER/
DEEMBEDDER USER HANDBOOK
Made in the UK by

Redbox Embedder/De-embedder User Handbook c
CONTENTS
CONTENTS
Warranty i
Warranty and Liability i
Unpacking the Redbox Embedder/De-embedder iii
Returning the Warranty Card iii
Safety Information iv
Safety of Mains Operated Equipment iv
Voltage Setting Checks iv
Fuse Rating iv
Power Cable and Connection iv
Ordering the Correct Mains Lead v
Installation Information v
Atmosphere v
Electromagnetic Radiation v
Fitting Redboxes v
WEEE & RoHS Directives - Sonifex Statement vi
1 Redbox Audio Embedders & De-Embedders 1
RB-VHDMA8 3G/HD/SD-SDI De-Embedder, 8 Channel Analogue Outputs 1
RB-VHEMA8 3G/HD/SD-SDI Embedder, 8 Channel Analogue Inputs 1
RB-VHCMA4 3G/HD/SD-SDI Embedder & De-Embedder 4 Channel
Analogue I/O 2
RB-VHCMD16 3G/HD/SD-SDI Embedder & De-Embedder 16 Channel
Digital I/O 2
Embedding and De-Embedding Overview 3
2 RB-VHDMA8 3G/HD/SD-SDI De-Embedder, 8 Channel Analogue Outputs 4
System Block Diagram 4
Front Panel Indicators & Controls 5
Rear Panel Connections 6
Remote Control 6
Audio Connections 8
Analogue Audio Outputs 8
Audio Output Gain Adjustment 9
RB-VHDMA8 D-type Pin-out 9
Control Modes 10
Bank Mode 10
Channel Mode 10
Changing Control Mode 10
De-Embedding 10
Bank Mode 10
Channel Mode 11
Deleting Audio Groups 11
Technical Specication For RB-VHDMA8 12
Remote Interface Commands & Responses Protocol 13
Command Format 13
Remote Control Commands 13
3 RB-VHEMA8 3G/HD/SD-SDI Embedder, 8 Channel Analogue Inputs 15
System Block Diagram 15
Front Panel Indicators & Controls 16
Rear Panel Connections 17
Remote Control 17
RS232 Remote Control 17
Ethernet 18
SDI Input 19
SDI Outputs 19

dRedbox Embedder/De-embedder User Handbook
CONTENTS
CONTENTS
Audio Connections 19
Analogue Audio Inputs 19
Audio Input Gain Adjustment 19
RB-VHEMA8 D-type Pin-out 20
Control Modes 20
Bank Mode 20
Channel Mode 20
Changing Control Mode 20
Embedding 21
Bank Mode 21
Channel Mode 21
SD & 24-bit Audio 22
Deleting Audio Groups 22
Technical Specication For RB-VHEMA8 23
Remote Interface Commands & Responses Protocol 24
Command Format 24
Remote Control Commands 24
4 RB-VHCMA4 3G/HD/SD-SDI Embedder & De-Embedder 4 Channel
Analogue I/O 27
System Block Diagram 27
Front Panel Indicators & Controls 28
Rear Panel Connections 30
Remote Control 30
Audio Connections 32
Analogue Audio Inputs 32
Analogue Audio Outputs 33
Audio Input and Output Gain Adjustment 33
RB-VHCMA4 D-type Pin-out 34
Control Modes 34
Bank Mode 34
Channel Mode 34
Changing Control Mode 35
Embedding 35
Bank Mode 35
Channel Mode 35
SD & 24-bit Audio 36
De-Embedding 36
Bank Mode 36
Channel Mode 37
Deleting Audio Groups 37
Technical Specication For RB-VHCMA4 38
Remote Interface Commands & Responses Protocol 39
Command Format 39
Remote Control Commands 39
5 RB-VHCMD16 3G/HD/SD-SDI Embedder & De-Embedder
16 Channel Digital I/O 43
System Block Diagram 43
Front Panel Indicators & Controls 44
Rear Panel Connections 46
Remote Control 46
Audio Connections 48
Digital Audio Inputs & Outputs 48
Audio Input and Output Gain Adjustment 49
Automatic Dolby Detection & SMPTE-337M Support 49
RB-VHCMD16 D-type Pin-out 49

Redbox Embedder/De-embedder User Handbook e
CONTENTS
CONTENTS
Control Modes 50
Bank Mode 50
Channel Mode 50
Changing Control Mode 50
Embedding 51
Bank Mode 51
Channel Mode 51
SD & 24-bit Audio 52
De-Embedding 52
Bank Mode 52
Channel Mode 53
Deleting Audio Groups 53
Technical Specication For RB-VHCMD16 54
Remote Interface Commands & Responses Protocol 55
Command Format 55
Remote Control Commands 55
6 Common Specications For RB-VHEMA8, RB-VHDMA8, 59
RB-VHCMA4 & RB-VHCMD16 59
7 SCi 61
System Page 61
De-Embed Page 63
Embed Page 64
Audio Inputs Page 65
Audio Outputs Page 66
Delay Page 67
8 Glossary 68

fRedbox Embedder/De-embedder User Handbook
FIGURES
FIGURES
Figures
Fig A: Packing List iii
Fig B: Power Connections iv
Fig C: Mains Lead Table v
Fig D: RB-RK3 Large Redbox Rear Rack-mount Kit v
Fig 2-1: RB-VHDMA8 System Block Diagram 4
Fig 2-2: RB-VHDMA8 Front Panel 5
Fig 2-3: RB-VHDMA8 Rear Panel 6
Fig 3-1: RB-VHEMA8 Block Diagram 15
Fig 3-2: RB-VHEMA8 Front Panel 16
Fig 3-3: RB-VHEMA8 Rear Panel 17
Fig 4-1: RB-VHCMA4 System Block Diagram 27
Fig 4-2: RB-VHCMA4 Front Panel 28
Fig 4-3: RB-VHCMA4 Front Panel 30
Fig 5-1: RB-VHCMD16 System Block Diagram 43
Fig 5-2: RB-VHCMD16 Front Panel 44
Fig 5-3: RB-VHCMD16 Rear Panel 46
Fig 7-1: SCi System Screen 61
Fig 7-2: Network Settings 62
Fig 7-3: SCi De-Embed Screen. 63
Fig 7-4: SCi Embed Screen 64
Fig 7-5: SCi Audio Inputs Screen 65
Fig 7-6: SCi Audio Outputs Screen 66
Fig 7-7: SCi Delay Screen 67

Redbox Embedder/De-embedder User Handbook i
WARRANTY
Warranty
Warranty and Liability
Important: the purchaser is advised to read this clause
(a) The Company agrees to repair or (at its discretion) replace Goods which are found to
be defective (fair wear and tear excepted) and which are returned to the Company
within 12 months of the date of despatch provided that each of the following
are satised:
(i) notication of any defect is given to the Company immediately upon its
becoming apparent to the Purchaser;
(ii) the Goods have only been operated under normal operating conditions and
have only been subject to normal use (and in particular the Goods must have
been correctly connected and must not have been subject to high voltage or
to ionising radiation and must not have been used contrary to the Company’s
technical recommendations);
(iii) the Goods are returned to the Company’s premises at the Purchaser’s expense;
(iv) any Goods or parts of Goods replaced shall become the property of
the Company;
(v) no work whatsoever (other than normal and proper maintenance) has been
carried out to the Goods or any part of the Goods without the Company’s prior
written consent;
(vi) the defect has not arisen from a design made, furnished or specied by
the Purchaser;
(vii) the Goods have been assembled or incorporated into other goods only in
accordance with any instructions issued by the Company;
(viii) the defect has not arisen from a design modied by the Purchaser;
(ix) the defect has not arisen from an item manufactured by a person other than
the Company.
In respect of any item manufactured by a person other than the Company, the Purchaser
shall only be entitled to the benet of any warranty or guarantee provided by such
manufacturer to the Company.
(b) In respect of computer software supplied by the Company the Company does not
warrant that the use of the software will be uninterrupted or error free.
WARRANTY

ii Redbox Embedder/De-embedder User Handbook
WARRANTY
(c) The Company accepts liability:
(i) for death or personal injury to the extent that it results from the negligence of
the Company, its employees (whilst in the course of their employment) or its
agents (in the course of the agency);
(ii) for any breach by the Company of any statutory undertaking as to title, quiet
possession and freedom from encumbrance.
(d) Subject to conditions (a) and (c) from the time of despatch of the Goods from the
Company’s premises the Purchaser shall be responsible for any defect in the Goods
or loss, damage, nuisance or interference whatsoever consequential economic or
otherwise or wastage of material resulting from or caused by or to the Goods. In
particular the Company shall not be liable for any loss of prots or other economic
losses. The Company accordingly excludes all liability for the same.
(e) At the request and expense of the Purchaser the Company will test the Goods to
ascertain performance levels and provide a report of the results of that test. The
report will be accurate at the time of the test, to the best of the belief and knowledge
of the Company, and the Company accepts no liability in respect of its accuracy
beyond that set out in Condition (a).
(f) Subject to Condition (e) no representation, condition, warranty or other term,
express or implied (by statute or otherwise) is given by the Company that the Goods
are of any particular quality or standard or will enable the Purchaser to attain any
particular performance or result, or will be suitable for any particular purpose or use
under specic conditions or will provide any particular capacity, notwithstanding
that the requirement for such performance, result or capacity or that such particular
purpose or conditions may have been known (or ought to have been known) to the
Company, its employees or agents.
(g) (i) To the extent that the Company is held legally liable to the Purchaser for any
single breach of contract, tort, representation or other act or default, the
Company’s liability for the same shall not exceed the Price of the Goods.
(ii) The restriction of liability in Condition (g)(i) shall not apply to any liability
accepted by the Seller in Condition (c).
(h) Where the Goods are sold under a consumer transaction (as dened by the
Consumer Transactions (Restrictions on Statements) Order 1976) the statutory
rights of the Purchaser are not aected by these Conditions of Sale.
WARRANTY

Redbox Embedder/De-embedder User Handbook iii
WARRANTY
Unpacking the Redbox Embedder/De-embedder
The Redbox Embedder/De-embedder is shipped with the following equipment. Please
check your packaging to ensure that you have all of the items below. If anything is missing,
please contact the supplier of your equipment immediately.
Item Quantity Redbox Embedder/De-embedder
Redbox Embedder/De-embedder 1
IEC Mains lead tted with moulded mains plug 1
Handbook and warranty card 1
Fig A: Packing List
Each Redbox Embedder/De-embedder is shipped in protective packaging and should be
inspected for damage before use. Where an item is found to have transit damage, notify
the carrier immediately with all the relevant details of the shipment. Packing materials
should be kept for inspection and also for if the product needs to be returned.
Returning the Warranty Card
In order to register the date of purchase so that we can keep you informed of any design
improvements or modications, it is important to complete the warranty registration
document that is enclosed and return it to Sonifex Ltd in the UK.
For your own records you should write down the serial number (which can be found on the
rear of the Redbox Embedder/De-embedder.
Serial Number ………………………………………
WARRANTY

iv Redbox Embedder/De-embedder User Handbook
SAFETY INFORMATION
Safety Information
Safety of Mains Operated Equipment
This equipment has been designed to meet the safety regulations currently
advised in the country of purchase and it conforms to the safety regulations
specied by use of the CE Mark.
Warning : There are no user serviceable parts inside the equipment. If you should ever
need to look inside the unit, always disconnect the mains supply before removing the
equipment covers.
Voltage Setting Checks
Ensure that the machine operating voltage is correct for your mains power supply by
checking the box in which your Redbox was supplied. The voltage is shown on the box
label. This product is continuously rated 85 - 264 VAC, 47 - 63Hz. Please note that all
Redboxes are either switchable between 115V and 230V, or have a universal power supply.
Fuse Rating
The Redbox Embedder/De-embedder is supplied with a single fuse in the live conducting
path of the mains power input. For reasons of safety it is important that the correct rating
and type of fuse is used. Incorrectly rated fuses could present a possible re hazard, under
equipment fault conditions. The fuse rating for the Redbox Embedder/De-embedder is:
Continuously rated 85 - 264 VAC, 47 - 63Hz - 2A, 5 x 20mm SB
The active fuse is tted on the outside rear panel of the unit.
Power Cable and Connection
An IEC power connector is supplied with the Redbox Embedder/De-embedder which has a
moulded plug attached – this is a legal requirement. If no moulded plug has been supplied
with your Redbox Embedder/De-embedder, please contact your supplier, because an IEC
connector is always supplied from the Sonifex factory.
If for any reason, you need to use the Redbox Embedder/De-embedder with a dierent
power cable, you should use the following wiring guidelines.
Wire Colour Connection
Green, or green and yellow Earth (E)
Blue, or Black Neutral (N)
Brown, or Red Live (L)
Fig B: Power Connections
Connect the equipment in accordance with the connection details and before applying
power to the unit, check that the machine has the correct operating voltage for your mains
power supply.
Important Note : The terminal marked on the rear panel must be earthed.
SAFETY INFORMATION

Redbox Embedder/De-embedder User Handbook v
SAFETY INFORMATION
Ordering the Correct Mains Lead
When ordering a Redbox from Sonifex, it is helpful if you can specify your required
operating voltage and mains lead. After the product code add:
UK, for 230V, UK 3 pin to IEC lead
EC, for 230V, European Schuko 2 pin to IEC lead
US, for 115V, 3 pin to IEC lead
AU for 230V, Australasian 3 pin to IEC lead
Fig C: Mains Lead Table
E.g. order Redbox Embedder/De-embedder UK for a UK IEC lead to be supplied.
Installation Information
Atmosphere
The units should be installed in an area that is not subject to excessive temperature
variation (<0°C, >50°C), moisture, dust or vibration.
Electromagnetic Radiation
The cover is connected to earth by means of the xing screws. It is essential to maintain
this earth ground connection to ensure a safe operating environment and provide
electromagnetic shielding.
Fitting Redboxes
Redboxes can be xed to the underside of a mixing desk, or other surfaces using 4.2mm
holes in the sides and xed with 2 x M4 screws or 2 x No. 6 countersink wood screws.
They can also be rack-mounted, with either the front, or rear of the Redbox positioned at
the front of the rack:
Rear Mounting The Redbox Embedder/De-embedder: The RB-RK3 1U rear panel rack kit
can be used for large Redboxes such as the Redbox Embedder/De-embedder.
Fig D: RB-RK3 Large Redbox Rear Rack-mount Kit
Note: When tting the rear-mounting rack-kits, a notch has been left on the inside of
the right-hand rack-piece for the mains cable to pass through. Make sure that the mains
cable has been put through the notch before attaching the right hand rack-piece.
SAFETY INFORMATION

vi Redbox Embedder/De-embedder User Handbook
SAFETY & INSTALLATION INFORMATION
WEEE & RoHS Directives - Sonifex Statement
The Waste Electrical and Electronic Equipment (WEEE) Directive was agreed on
13 February 2003, along with the related Directive 2002/95/EC on Restrictions
of the use of certain Hazardous Substances in electrical and electronic
equipment (RoHS).
The Waste Electrical and Electronic Equipment Directive (WEEE) aims to minimise the
impacts of electrical and electronic equipment on the environment during their life times
and when they become waste. It applies to a huge spectrum of products. It encourages
and sets criteria for the collection, treatment, recycling and recovery of waste electrical and
electronic equipment. All products manufactured by Sonifex Ltd have the WEEE directive
label placed on the case. It gives a contact for individuals who are unsure about the correct
procedure when the product has reached its “end of use”.
Sonifex Ltd will be happy to give you information about local organisations that can
reprocess the products, or alternatively all products that have reached “end of use” can be
returned to Sonifex and will be reprocessed correctly free of charge.
Sonifex Ltd has phased out the use of certain hazardous substances identied in the
European Union’s Restriction of Hazardous Substances (RoHS) directive. The RoHS
directive limits the use of certain hazardous substances currently used in EEE manufacture,
including lead, mercury, cadmium, hexavalent chromium, and halide-containing
compounds PBB (polybrominated biphenyl) and PBDE (polybrominated diphenyl ether).
Elimination of these substances will result in more environmentally friendly recycling
of electronic equipment. For the products which Sonifex manufacture, the main area
where products were aected was in the use of lead for manufacturing and assembling
electronics circuit boards.
Sonifex Ltd practices lead-free (LF) manufacturing processes. LF solder is used on the
surface-mount PCB manufacturing processes and for hand soldering. The printed circuit
boards (PCBs) used are either gold plated, or immersion tin plated, both of which use no
lead. Historically the PCBs were hot air solder levelled (HASL) PCBs which used tin/lead
based solder.
The manufacturing processes include the assembly of purchased components from
various sources. Product is oered as RoHS compliant, or LF, only after sucient evidence
is received from the component manufacturers that their components are RoHS compliant.
Sonifex Ltd relies solely on the distributor, or manufacturer, of the components for
identication of RoHS compliance. Thus whilst every eort is made to ensure compliance,
Sonifex Ltd makes no warranty, or certication, or declaration of compliance concerning
said components.
Sonifex Ltd denes “Lead Free”as pertaining to any product, which has been manufactured
by Sonifex Ltd using components which have been declared by the manufacturers as
“Lead Free”. All statements by Sonifex Ltd of RoHS compliance are based on component
manufacturer documentation.
SAFETY & INSTALLATION
INFORMATION

Redbox Embedder/De-embedder User Handbook 1
INTRODUCTION 1
INTRODUCTIONINTRODUCTION
1 Redbox Audio Embedders & De-Embedders
The Redbox range of audio embedders and de-embedders use the latest
technology to offer embedding and de-embedding for analogue and digital audio
signals into and out of all 3G, HD and SD-SDI video signals, respectively. There
are currently 4 products in the range.
RB-VHDMA8 3G/HD/SD-SDI De-Embedder, 8 Channel Analogue Outputs
The RB-VHDMA8 is an 8 channel analogue de-embedder contained in a single 19-inch
rack unit. The unit can selectively de-embed up to 8 channels within any audio group of
an SDI video signal, to any of the analogue outputs. After which, the video becomes two
independent paths, where the audio groups can be selectively deleted or passed through
and then sent to the re-clocked SDI outputs.
The de-embedding channel routing is controlled via the front panel buttons and
indicators. There is also LED indication for SDI input status and audio group presence.
The unit can be remote controlled via Ethernet or serial port connections using the Sonifex
SCi software.
It has a triple rate SDI receiver with automatic input rate detection and equalisation along
with two re-clocked and individually buered SDI outputs. It supports the full range of 3G,
HD and SD standards from NTSC and PAL up to 1080p 60Hz.
There is independent level control for each analogue output channel, which can be
adjusted from -24dB through to +24dB in 0.5dB steps.
The analogue outputs have three full-scale gain settings which can be set via jumpers
inside the unit. Allowable settings are +12dBu, +18dBu and +24dBu reference FSD. The
balanced and unbalanced output connections are paralleled, allowing one type to be used
per output.
RB-VHEMA8 3G/HD/SD-SDI Embedder, 8 Channel Analogue Inputs
The RB-VHEMA8 is an 8 channel analogue embedder contained in a single 19-inch rack
unit. The unit can selectively embed up to 8 analogue channels onto either of the two
output video paths which are sent to the re-clocked SDI outputs. It also has the capability
to allow audio groups to be deleted or passed through on each of the two video paths
prior to the embedding process.
The embedding channel routing is controlled via the front panel buttons and indicators.
There is also LED indication for SDI input status and audio group presence.
The unit can be remote controlled via Ethernet or serial port connections using the Sonifex
SCi software.
It has a triple rate SDI receiver with automatic input rate detection and equalisation along
with two re-clocked and individually buered SDI outputs. It supports the full range of 3G,
SD and HD standards from NTSC and PAL up to 1080p 60Hz.

2Redbox Embedder/De-embedder User Handbook
INTRODUCTION
1
INTRODUCTION
There is independent level control for each analogue input channel, which can be adjusted
from -24dB through to +24dB in 0.5dB steps.
The analogue inputs have three full-scale gain settings which can be set via jumpers
situated inside the unit. Allowable settings are +12dBu, +18dBu and +24dBu for FSD. The
balanced and unbalanced input connections are paralleled, allowing one type to be used
per input.
RB-VHCMA4 3G/HD/SD-SDI Embedder & De-Embedder 4 Channel
Analogue I/O
The RB-VHCMA4 is a 4-channel analogue de-embedder and a 4-channel analogue
embedder combined into a single 19-inch rack unit. The unit can selectively de-embed
up to 4 channels within any audio group of an SDI video signal, to any of the analogue
outputs. After which, the video becomes two independent paths where the audio groups
can be selectively deleted or passed through. The unit then embeds any of the 4 analogue
input channels to available groups within each of the two video paths, which are then sent
to the re-clocked SDI outputs.
The de-embedding and embedding channel routing is controlled via the front panel
buttons and indicators. There is also LED indication for SDI input status and audio group
presence.
The unit can be remote controlled via Ethernet or serial port connections using the Sonifex
SCi software.
It has a triple rate SDI receiver with automatic input rate detection and equalisation along
with two re-clocked and individually buered SDI outputs. It supports the full range of 3G,
SD and HD standards from NTSC and PAL up to 1080p 60Hz.
There is independent level control for each analogue input and output channel, which can
be adjusted from -24dB through to +24dB in 0.5dB steps.
The analogue outputs have three full-scale gain settings which can be set via jumpers
situated inside the unit. Allowable settings are +12dBu, +18dBu and +24dBu reference
FSD Similarly, the analogue inputs full-scale gain settings can be set via jumpers inside
the unit. Allowable settings are +12dBu, +18dBu and +24dBu for FSD. The balanced and
unbalanced connections are paralleled, allowing one type to be used per input or output.
RB-VHCMD16 3G/HD/SD-SDI Embedder & De-Embedder 16 Channel
Digital I/O
The RB-VHCMD16 is a 16-channel de-embedder and 16 channel embedder combined into
a single 19-inch rack unit. The unit can selectively de-embed any channel within any audio
group of an SDI video signal, to any of the digital outputs. After which, the video becomes
two independent paths where the audio groups can be selectively deleted or passed
through. The unit then embeds any of the digital input channels to available groups within
each of the two video paths, which are then sent to the re-clocked SDI outputs.

Redbox Embedder/De-embedder User Handbook 3
INTRODUCTION 1
INTRODUCTION
The de-embedding and embedding channel routing is controlled via the front panel
buttons and indicators. There is also LED indication for SDI input status and audio group
presence.
The unit can be remote controlled via Ethernet or serial port connections using the Sonifex
SCi software.
It has a triple rate SDI receiver with automatic input rate detection and equalisation along
with two re-clocked and individually buered SDI outputs. It supports the full range of 3G,
HD and SD standards from NTSC and PAL up to 1080p 60Hz.
Each digital input is normally sample rate converted to 48kHz before embedding, so that
it is synchronous to the video input. Though sample rate conversion can be bypassed on a
per input basis allowing SMPTE-337M data to be embedded. All digital outputs are output
at 48kHz, synchronous to the video input.
There is independent level control for each digital input and output channel, which can be
adjusted from -24dB through to +24dB in 0.5dB steps.
The digital inputs and outputs are unbalanced AES specication, and can be connected
through either BNC or D-Type connectors. These I/O connections are paralleled, allowing
one type to be used per input or output.
Embedding and De-Embedding Overview
Audio embedding is the process of taking one or more audio signals, formatting them into
packets and then placing them into the ancillary or blanking space of a video signal. Audio
de-embedding is the process of retrieving this audio data from the video signal but not
necessarily removing it. These two processes are standardised by two SMPTE documents,
SMPTE-272M for SD-SDI and SMPTE-299M for HD-SDI and 3G-SDI.
Both of these standards allow for the embedding of 16 channels of 24-bit, 48kHz audio.
Which are divided down into 4 groups of 4 channels.
Each standard consists of a control packet and an audio data packet. The control packets
hold certain control information about the audio to aid in the de-embedding process or
any other receiving equipment. There is one control packet per group, these packets are
optional for SD. The control packet is normally placed in the horizontal blanking period
once per eld or frame. The audio data packets contain the actual audio sample data.
There are considerable dierences between SD and HD, the main ones being that SD data
packets contain only 20-bit data and are of variable length while the HD data packets
contain 24-bit data and are of xed length. The HD packets also provide an error correction
and detection method. The SD standard consists of a further packet, the extended data
packet. These packets contain the 4 least signicant bits of the audio samples to provide
full 24-bit audio.

4Redbox Embedder/De-embedder User Handbook
RBVHDMA8
RBVHDMA8
2
2 RB-VHDMA8 3G/HD/SD-SDI De-Embedder, 8 Channel
Analogue Outputs
The RB-VHDMA8 is an 8 channel analogue de-embedder contained in a single 19-inch
rack unit. The unit can selectively de-embed up to 8 channels within any audio group of
an SDI video signal, to any of the analogue outputs. After which, the video becomes two
independent paths, where the audio groups can be selectively deleted or passed through
and then sent to the re-clocked SDI outputs.
The de-embedding channel routing is controlled via the front panel buttons and
indicators. There is also LED indication for SDI input status and audio group presence.
The unit can be remote controlled via Ethernet or serial port connections using the Sonifex
SCi software.
It has a triple rate SDI receiver with automatic input rate detection and equalisation along
with two re-clocked and individually buered SDI outputs. It supports the full range of 3G,
HD and SD standards from NTSC and PAL up to 1080p 60Hz.
There is independent level control for each analogue output channel, which can be
adjusted from -24dB through to +24dB in 0.5dB steps.
The analogue outputs have three full-scale gain settings which can be set via jumpers
inside the unit. Allowable settings are +12dBu, +18dBu and +24dBu reference FSD. The
balanced and unbalanced output connections are paralleled, allowing one type to be used
per output.
System Block Diagram
Fig 2-1: RB-VHDMA8 System Block Diagram
Analogue
Outputs
Balanced
Unbalanced
Bank 1
DACs
Bank 2
DACs
Channel
Routing
8 Channel
Level
Control
SDI
Input SDI
Output 2
SDI
Receiver Audio De-embedder SDI Transmitter
Audio
Pass /
Delete
EQ CD
Audio
Group
Detect SDI
Transmitter
Audio
Pass /
Delete
SDI
Output 1
CD
4
4
8

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Front Panel Indicators & Controls
Fig 2-2: RB-VHDMA8 Front Panel
Power LED
The POWER LED illuminates whilst internal power is present within the unit. If this indicator
is not on, the most likely reason is simply the absence of mains power, but under fault
conditions it may also indicate a ruptured mains fuse or a problem with the internal power
supply module.
Reset Button
In the unlikely event that the unit fails to respond, press the reset button to reboot the unit.
Bank
The BANK button and its indicators are used to select the audio output bank when
controlling the de-embedding channel routing. The button LED is used show whether the
bank is enabled. To enable or disable the bank, press and hold the BANK button for two
seconds until the bank number indicator blinks. When lit green it is enabled and when lit
red it is disabled. When the bank is disabled, all audio outputs are muted.
Bank Channel
The BANK CHANNEL button and its indicators are only used when the unit is operating in
Channel mode and are used to select the audio output bank channel when controlling the
de-embedding channel routing. The button LED is used to show whether the channel is
enabled. To enable or disable the channel, press and hold the BANK CHANNEL button for
two seconds until the channel number indicator blinks. When lit green it is enabled and
when it is lit red it is disabled. When the channel is disabled, the audio output is muted.
The channel will also be muted if the bank is disabled, even if the channel is enabled.
Group
The GROUP button and its indicators are used to select the group audio number within the
video signal to de-embed and send to analogue outputs in the currently selected bank.
Group Channel
The GROUP CHANNEL button and its indicators are used to select the channel number
within the currently selected group to de-embed and send to the analogue output in the
currently selected bank and bank channel. This button is only used when operating in
Channel mode.
Power
LED
BANK
Button
BANK
Channel
GROUP
Button
GROUP
Channel
STATUS
Button

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Status
This button is used to used to enter and exit the group deletion mode, which is discussed
later.
Audio Group Detection
The four audio group indicators associated with the STATUS button, display the audio
groups which are present in the SDI video signal. If an audio group is present, its relevant
indicator will be lit. This is useful to determine which groups are available for de-
embedding and/or deleting.
Lock Indicator
The lock indicator is lit when the the SDI receiver has detected and locked to the incoming
video format. If the input is disconnected or is intermittent then the lock indicator will stay
unlit.
Output Indicators
These two indicators are used to indicate which one of the two outputs are selected when
conguring audio packets for deletion.
Rear Panel Connections
Fig 2-3: RB-VHDMA8 Rear Panel
Mains Power
Power is applied via a standard three-pin IEC male socket. Mains voltages between 85V
and264V AC and frequencies between 47 and 63Hz are accepted without adjustment. A
2A, 5 x 20mm SB fuse is used. The Earth pin MUST be connected to ensure safety.
Remote Control
The unit can be controlled remotely either by serial RS-232 or Ethernet using the Sonifex
SCi software. Using remote control allows the user to monitor the status of the unit and
also set various options and settings not available via the front panel.
PowerRS232
Ethernet Fuse
De-embed Bank
Bal Outputs
Bank 1
Unbal
Outputs
Bank 2
Unbal
Outputs SDI
IN
SDI Outputs
1 and 2

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RS232 Remote Control
A 9-way female D-type connector carries a standard RS232 interface via which advanced
conguration options may be set and many functions may be remotely controlled. The pin
assignations are as follows:
Pin No. Function
1 Unused
6 Unused
2 Data transmit (TX)
7 Unused
3 Data receive (RX)
8 Unused
4 Unused
9 Unused
5 Ground
The RB-VHDMA8 will interface directly with personal computer serial ports at standard
RS232 signal levels using a straight-through cable. The default format is 19200 baud with 8
data bits, even parity and 1 stop bit. Sonifex SCi software, when installed on a suitable PC,
provides straightforward graphical access to all remote control and conguration options
via both RS232 and Ethernet interfaces. Alternatively, commands may be issued from any
text-based terminal program (e.g. Hyperterminal) or custom software may be developed
for specic requirements.
Ethernet
The Ethernet port is connected using a standard RJ-45 connector on the rear of the panel.
It is a 10/100Mbps link. The unit is shipped with DHCP enabled to allow the unit to be
plug and play if the users local area network has a DHCP server. If one is not available on
the network and the unit cannot retrieve a valid IP address after 45 seconds it will default
to a static address. This static address is set to 192.168.0.100 by default but can be altered
through SCi using the serial port connection. If DHCP is not required then this can also be
disabled through SCi using the serial port connection.

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The Network connectors pin assignations are as follows:
Network Connector (RJ-45)
Pin No. Function
1 Transmit Data (Positive)
2 Transmit Data (Negative)
3 Receive Data (Positive)
4 No connection
5 No connection
6 Receive Data (Negative)
7 No connection
8 No connection
SDI Input
The SDI input is connected using a single female BNC and has a 75Ω input impedance. It is
a triple rate SDI receiver with automatic input rate detection and equalisation. It supports
the full range of 3G, SD and HD standards from NTSC and PAL up to 1080p 60Hz. The status
of the input is displayed on the status LEDs on the front panel. When the SDI input rate
and format has been detected, the SDI lock indicator will be lit.
SDI Outputs
The two SDI outputs are connected using the two female BNC connectors on the rear
panel. They have a 75 Ω output impedance in accordance with the SMPTE standard
and are both re-clocked and independently buered. Each output can be congured
separately for group deletion settings.
Audio Connections
Analogue Audio Outputs
The RB-VHDMA8 has eight analogue outputs which are separated into two banks of
four channels. These can be connected using balanced connections through the D-type
connectors or unbalanced connections through BNC connectors, all are available on the
rear panel. The balanced analogue outputs can be wired unbalanced by connecting non-
phase (-) pin to the ground pin for that output, and then connecting the audio signal to the
phase (+) pin.
The two output types are connected internally, so please ensure that only one type of
connection is used per output.