Studio Technologies 5152 User manual

Copyright © 2013 by Studio Technologies, Inc., all rights reserved
www.studio-tech.com
50185-0913, Issue 5
User Guide
Issue 5, September 2013
This User Guide is applicable for
Model 5152 modules with the following order codes:
M5152, M5152-01, M5152-02, M5152-03X, and M5152-04X
with serial numbers 00151 and later
and firmware versions
MCU 2.3 and later (m5152.s19) and FPGA 2.2 and later (m5152.bit)
Model 5152
Video Generator/Audio Embedder Module

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Model 5152 User Guide Issue 5, September 2013
Studio Technologies, Inc. Page 3
Model 5152
Video Generator/Audio Embedder Module
Table of Contents
Introduction ................................................................... 5
Installation .................................................................... 9
Configuration ................................................................ 14
Operation ...................................................................... 22
Technical Notes ............................................................ 27
Specifications ............................................................... 34
Appendix A—Model 5152 Versions .............................. 35
Appendix B—DC Input/Data and GPI/GPO
Interconnection Details ................................................. 36
Appendix C—Model 5152 Front Panel and
Printed Circuit Board (PCB) Dimensions ...................... 38

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Model 5152
Video Generator/Audio Embedder Module
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Model 5152 User Guide Issue 5, September 2013
Studio Technologies, Inc. Page 5
Model 5152
Video Generator/Audio Embedder Module
Introduction
The Model 5152 Video Generator/Audio
Embedder Module is a unique device suited
for a variety of custom broadcast, post-
production, industrial, and corporate mul-
timedia installations. As a member of the
5100-Series of modules, the Model 5152’s
compact size belies its powerful video and
audio feature set. At its most basic, the
Model 5152 provides the ability to embed up
to eight audio channels (four AES3 digital
audio “pairs”) into a SMPTE®-compliant
HD- or 3G-SDI video “stream.” Unlike most
stand-alone embedder products, Model
5152 embedding operation does not require
an external source of SDI to be connected.
Advanced circuitry within the Model 5152
supports the generation of a broadcast-
standard high-definition SDI signal. And
rather than reproducing a fixed test pattern,
the Model 5152 has the capability to store
and output two custom video images. The
images, one for “720” and one for “1080,”
are based on bitmap (.bmp) files that can
be created using a personal computer’s
graphics program.
For convenience, the .bmp files are stored
in the module’s nonvolatile memory via a
standard USB flash drive. The appropriate
“720” or “1080” image is automatically con-
nected to the SDI output whenever an SDI
input signal is not present. This ensures
that an SDI output signal is always sent to
equipment further along the signal chain.
The Model 5152’s video signal generation
capability can be extremely useful, serv-
ing as both a “keep-alive” signal as well as
allowing a detailed graphics image to be
displayed for identification purposes. When
a valid HD- or 3G-SDI signal is connected
to the module’s input it will pass through,
unchanged, to the module’s SDI output.
Only when an input is not present will the
stored image be generated. The format
and rate of the stored image will match
that of the previously-connected SDI input
signal. This “learning” capability allows a
Model 5152 to automatically adapt to the
SDI format and rate utilized by a specific
facility or application.
An alternate operating mode can be se-
lected, allowing the Model 5152 to serve
as a dedicated video signal generator. In
this mode an SDI signal connected to the
module will serve as an external timing
reference.
General Highlights
Applications for the Model 5152 include
sports broadcasting booth packages,
“POV” (point-of-view) remote-controlled
camera systems, stadium audio/video
interface (I/O) locations, and government/
Figure 1. Model 5152 Video Generator/Audio Embedder Module front and rear views

Issue 5, September 2013 Model 5152 User Guide
Page 6 Studio Technologies, Inc.
Model 5152
Video Generator/Audio Embedder Module
corporate facilities. The module’s perfor-
mance is completely “pro” with video and
audio quality, reliability, and installation flex-
ibility matching that of much larger-scale
equipment.
For operation the Model 5152 only requires
connection of a few signals. These consist
of SDI inputs and outputs, up to four unbal-
anced digital audio sources, an external
source of nominal 12 volts DC and, op-
tionally, two wires associated with a local
RS-485 data bus. Some applications may
also utilize the general-purpose input (GPI)
and general-purpose output (GPO) func-
tions (available only on modules with serial
numbers 00251 and later). Coaxial SDI
input and output support is standard. Opti-
cal input and output support is optional. The
acceptable DC input voltage range is 10 to
18, allowing a variety of power sources to
be utilized.
The Model 5152 uses standard connectors
for fast, convenient interfacing. Coaxial SDI
input and output signals use BNC con-
nectors. An optional video SFP fiber optic
module can be installed at the factory. The
module supports interconnection of single-
mode optical fibers using LC plugs. Digi-
tal audio signals interface with the Model
5152 by way of a 9-pin D-subminiature
connector. The DC power input and data
bus connections use a 4-position, 0.1-inch
header. The GPI and GPO connections use
a 3-position, 0.1-inch header. Low-cost IDC
(insulation-displacement connector) mating
sockets allow simple interconnection with a
variety of wire gauges. Twelve status LEDs
offer users both performance confidence
and troubleshooting assistance.
The Model 5152 is compatible with the
Studio Technologies’ Model 5190 Remote
Access Module. This will allow remote
configuration, monitoring and control, via an
Ethernet connection, of key module operat-
ing and status parameters. A local RS-485
data bus allows up to 16 of the 5100-Series
modules to be connected to a Model 5190.
Several Model 5152 operating parameters
can be configured to meet the needs of
specific applications. A USB flash drive
along with several DIP switches, are used
to convey the configuration to the module.
A simple text file that reflects the desired
configuration is created and stored on the
USB flash drive. When inserted into the
appropriate socket on the Model 5152 the
file is read and stored. Updating the Model
5152’s firmware (embedded software) is
also possible using a USB flash drive load-
ed with factory-supplied files.
Model 5152 Video Generator/Audio Em-
bedder Modules do not include a mounting
enclosure or chassis. They are intended
for mounting in custom 19-inch rack pan-
els, equipment boxes, broadcast furniture,
“NEMA” I/O boxes, or other specialized
enclosures. It is expected that integration
firms will create applications that use Model
5152 modules as part of complete broad-
cast, production, corporate, and government
solutions. Sophisticated users will be able
to easily create “one-off” solutions to solve
unique challenges.
SDI Inputs and SDI Outputs
High-definition SMPTE-compatible SDI sig-
nals with data rates of 1.485 Gb/s nominal
(HD-SDI) and 2.97 Gb/s nominal (3G-SDI)
can be connected. Virtually all of the com-
monly-utilized “720” and “1080” formats are
supported. Standard-definition SDI signals
with a data rate of 270 Mb/s nominal (SD-
SDI) are not supported. It was felt that users
looking for advanced solutions such as

Model 5152 User Guide Issue 5, September 2013
Studio Technologies, Inc. Page 7
Model 5152
Video Generator/Audio Embedder Module
those provided by the Model 5152 will not
typically be working with SD-SDI signals.
But be assured that many HD-SDI and
3G-SDI formats and rates are supported,
allowing the Model 5152 to be appropriate
for worldwide use.
Coaxial (BNC) Support
Using standard BNC connectors, the Model
5152 supports one coaxial SDI input and
one coaxial SDI output.
Optical Fiber Support
Factory-implemented options allow the
Model 5152 to support SDI signals that
are transported using single-mode optical
fibers. Using video SFP modules a range
of optical input, output, and transceiver
capabilities can be supported. For a list
of available Model 5152 versions refer to
Appendix A.
The standard 1310 nanometer optical
transmit wavelength is available, as are the
more-esoteric CWDM wavelengths. A mod-
ule that includes an optical SDI output will
always have its optical output active, trans-
porting the same SDI data as that present
on the coaxial (BNC) output. When a Model
5152 has been provided with an optical SDI
input a configuration choice selects whether
it, or the coaxial (BNC) input, is active.
Video Generation Capability
During typical operation an HD- or 3G-SDI
signal is connected to the Model 5152’s se-
lected SDI input. It’s then “passed through”
to the module’s SDI output(s) and on to the
next part of the signal chain. But what hap-
pens when the external SDI signal is not
present? That’s when the Model 5152’s in-
ternal SDI generator becomes active. When
a signal is not present on the selected SDI
input the module will generate a high-
definition (HD- or 3G-SDI) image that will
serve as a “slate,” ID, or “SDI-active” signal.
This SDI signal also allows the audio em-
bedding function to remain active.
From the factory two bitmap (.bmp) image
files are stored in nonvolatile memory. One
file is used for generating the image for
1280 x 720 pixel formats and the other for
1920 x 1080 pixel formats. But alternate
bitmap image files can be created and
stored in the Model 5152. These alternate
images can supply site- or application-
specific information useful to “downstream”
users. Using a personal-computer graph-
ics program, such as Microsoft® Paint® or
Adobe® Photoshop®, generating custom
images and storing them in the appropriate
bitmap format is a simple matter.
A USB port, located on the Model 5152’s
front panel, allows direct connection of
a standard USB flash drive. If the Model
5152’s firmware (embedded software)
recognizes compatible FAT32 bitmap
(.bmp) files on the USB flash drive they
will be automatically loaded into nonvola-
tile memory. The USB flash drive can then
be removed with the custom images safely
stored within the Model 5152.
One subtle but important configurable
feature has been included for broadcast
applications which use the Model 5152’s
SDI output(s) “on-air.” When an SDI signal
is removed from the module’s selected SDI
input, the Model 5152 can be configured
to output a few seconds of solid-gray color
before the stored image appears. This will
help to ensure that technicians or opera-
tors will be visually “warned” that the mod-
ule’s input signal has been lost and that
the stored image will soon be taking its
place. It’s hoped that the solid-gray video

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Model 5152
Video Generator/Audio Embedder Module
image will be innocuous for on-air viewers
yet different enough to encourage operators
to switch the module’s output away from
being “on air.”
A unique feature of the Model 5152 is its
ability to automatically adapt to the for-
mat and rate of a connected SDI signal.
This allows the stored image to be output
at the same format and rate as that used
by the associated network, local facility,
or event. If, for example, a connected in-
put is “1080i/59.94” then the Model 5152
will automatically detect and store that
information. From then on whenever an
SDI input signal is not present the internal
generator will output the stored image at
“1080i/59.94.” Changing the format and rate
of the generator only requires connection of
an SDI signal with the desired characteris-
tics. (A minimum required connection time
helps to ensure that an accidental format/
rate change won’t occur.) However, there
may be situations where maintaining the
format and rate of the internally-generated
signal is important. To support this condition
one configuration choice allows the auto-
matic format/rate selection function to be
disabled.
Video Generation with External
Reference
Some applications may benefit from the
Model 5152 serving as a full-time stand
alone video generator. A configuration
choice helps to support such applications
by using the selected SDI input only as a
timing reference. Unlike typical operation,
when selecting this operating mode a signal
connected to the selected SDI input would
not pass through to the SDI. Its rate, format,
and specific timing characteristics would
be used as a reference for the internally-
generated video output. Note that bi-level or
tri-level analog timing reference signals are
not supported. Only a HD-SDI or 3G-SDI
signal can serve as a reference signal for
the Model 5152.
Audio Embedding
The Model 5152 allows four stereo digital
audio signals to be embedded into the SDI
output signal. The eight channels of audio
will always be embedded, whether or not
an SDI source is connected to the module.
Nine configuration choices allow flexibility
as to where the digital audio inputs will be
embedded into the SDI output signal. A
range of applications can be supported by
taking advantage of the module’s ability to
embed into groups 1, 2, 3, or 4.
The four digital audio inputs are 75 ohms,
unbalanced, and follow the AES3 standard.
They are intended for use with broadcast-
standard “24-bit, 48 kHz” digital audio
signals. Advanced sample-rate-converter
circuitry ensures excellent performance with
signals that are asynchronous with each
other and the Model 5152’s internal timing.
The Model 5152’s digital audio inputs are
directly compatible with the digital audio
output provided by the Studio Technologies’
Model 5110 Mic/Line Input Module. Up to
four Model 5110 modules can be directly
connected, supporting eight mic/line inputs.
A major Model 5152 feature is its ability
to embed audio into the SDI output signal
whether or not an SDI input signal is pres-
ent. If a valid SDI signal is connected then
the Model 5152 will embed audio data into
that data stream. If an SDI signal is not
connected embedding will continue but now
will be associated with the custom image.
In this way embedded-audio transport will
always be supported.

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Model 5152
Video Generator/Audio Embedder Module
When audio is being embedded into an
externally-connected SDI signal it will re-
place any incoming embedded audio that’s
already present. However, any embedded
audio present on groups that are not being
embedded by the Model 5152 will correctly
“pass through” to the SDI output. This is
important when SDI input signals that
already include embedded audio, such as
from portable ENG-type cameras, are con-
nected. Such devices typically embed two
or four microphone audio channels into
group 1, which need to pass through the
Model 5152 without interference.
It’s important to note that when changing
from an external SDI signal to the internal
generator (or vice-versa) the SDI output,
including embedded audio, will momentari-
ly lose timing and some video and audio
“glitches” may be present. For the intended
Model 5152 applications this should
not prove to be an issue but is worth
mentioning.
GPI and GPO
Model 5152 modules with serial numbers
00251 and later offer a general-purpose
input (GPI) and a general-purpose out-
put (GPO) function. The GPI allows the
connection of a switch or contact closure
to control the on/off status of the Model
5152’s audio embedder function. Future
versions of the Model 5152’s firmware may
implement other GPI-controlled actions.
The GPO function provides an indication
of the status of the selected SDI input. It’s
intended that the GPO will be connected
to an LED indicator. A configuration choice
selects whether the GPO is active (+3.3
volts) when the selected SDI input is valid
or active when the selected SDI input is
invalid. (This can also be described as
active “high” or active “low”). This allows,
for example, a green LED to light when-
ever a valid signal is connected to the
selected SDI input, thus providing an
“input good” indication. Alternately, a red
LED could light when the selected SDI
input is not active, providing an “input fail”
indication.
Installation
Integration of the Model 5152 into a select-
ed application should prove quite simple,
only connecting SDI input and output sig-
nals, digital audio sources, as well as
DC power is required. Some applications
will also require connection to the module’s
data bus, GPI, and GPO functions. The
coaxial (BNC) input and output connec-
tions are compatible with most HD-SDI
and 3G-SDI signals. If the specific Model
5152 being installed also includes opti-
cal support one or two single-mode fiber
interconnections will be made. The fiber
connections utilize miniature LC plugs.
Up to four AES3-compliant unbalanced
digital audio signals can be connected
by way of a 9-pin D-subminiature (DE-9)
connector. Each of these four digital audio
signals supports two channels of audio.
The DC power source is nominal 12 volts
with an acceptable range of 10 to 18 volts.
It’s possible that the module will be part of
a local RS-485 data bus that’s associated
with a Studio Technologies’ Model 5190
Remote Access Module. If so, two ad-
ditional wires are required to connect the
module to the data bus. GPI and GPO con-
nections are made using a 3-pin header.
After all the connections have been com-
pleted the module can then be secured
into the designated mounting location.

Issue 5, September 2013 Model 5152 User Guide
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Model 5152
Video Generator/Audio Embedder Module
Coaxial (BNC) SDI Output
The Model 5152 provides an SDI output
that utilizes a broadcast-standard BNC
socket. This output is referred to as the co-
axial (BNC) SDI output. Refer to Figure 2
for a detailed view of the connector’s loca-
tion on the rear of the module. The coaxial
(BNC) output, depending on operating
conditions, will be either a SMPTE-
compliant HD-SDI (1.485 Gb/s nominal)
or a 3G-SDI (2.97 Gb/s nominal) signal.
The exact format/rate combinations sup-
ported by the Model 5152 are listed in the
Specifications section of this guide.
Coaxial (BNC) SDI Input
An SDI source can be connected to
the Model 5152 by way of a broadcast-
standard BNC connector. This is referred
to as the coaxial (BNC) SDI input. Re-
fer to Figure 2 for a detailed view of the
connector’s location on the rear of the
module. The coaxial (BNC) input is com-
patible with SMPTE-compliant HD (1.485
Gb/s nominal) and 3G (2.97 Gb/s nominal)
SDI signals. It is not compatible with stan-
dard definition SD-SDI (270 Mb/s nominal)
signals. The exact format/rate combinations
supported by the Model 5152 are listed in
the Specifications section of this guide.
A configuration setting must be made for the
coaxial (BNC) SDI input to be active. Refer
to the Configuration section of this guide for
details.
Optical SDI Output
This section applies only when the specific
Model 5152 module being installed was con-
figured at the factory to provide an optical
output. A video SFP (small form-factor plug-
gable) optical module is used to provide the
optical SDI output. A range of SFP modules
can be installed in the “cage” at the back of
the Model 5152. These include transceiver
modules that have both an optical output
(transmitter) and an optical input (receiver),
as well as output-only (transmitter) modules.
The technical characteristics of the optical
Figure 2. Detailed rear view of the Model 5152 Video Generator/Audio Embedder Module showing the
MCU and FPGA boards