Videonics MX-1 User manual

The Video Editing Company
VIDEONICS
VIDEONICS
DIGITAL VIDEO MIXER
1
2
3
4
5
6
7
8
9
0
OK
A
B
C
D
COLOR
SETUP
LEARN
CHROMA
KEY
COMPOSE
DISPLAY
DEMO
SHIFT
PLAY
(AUTO TAKE)
FREEZE
SPEED
ZOOM/
P-IN-P
WIPE
FADE /
DISSOLVE
BACK
BORDER
COLOR
COLOR
A
B
C
D
COLOR
AUDIO
VIDEO
INPUT
F/X
CUT
➔
CUT
➔
CUT
➔
CUT
➔
CUT
➔
REVERSE
FLIP
Videonics MX-1 Digital Video Mixer
INSTRUCTION
MANUAL

1. POWER INDICATOR
2. POWER SWITCH
3. TAKE BAR (FOR MANUAL TRANSITIONS)
4. AUTO-TAKE, AUTO-TAKE SPEED, AND VIDEO
FREEZE BUTTONS
5. TRANSITION EFFECT BUTTONS
6. AUDIO/VIDEO SELECTOR AND INDICATOR
7. INPUT EFFECTS (MOSAIC, STROBE, ETC.)
BUTTON
8. 4-INPUT SWITCHER CONTROLS, INDICATORS
9. BORDER AND BACKGROUND COLOR BUTTONS
10. TRANSITION-EFFECT SELECTION BUTTONS,
ARROW KEYPAD
11. PREVIEW MONITOR DISPLAY SWITCH
12. DEMO BUTTON
13. SETUP SCREEN BUTTON
14. SEQUENCER “LEARN” BUTTON
15. CHROMA KEY BUTTON
16. COMPOSE BUTTON
17. SHIFT
18. NEXT-SOURCE SELECTORS
19. ERGONOMIC PALM REST
CONTROLS
INPUT
F/X
PLAY
(AUTO TAKE)
BACK
COLOR BORDER COLOR
AUDIO
VIDEO
ZOOM /
P-IN-P
FLIP
WIPE
FADE /
DISSOLVE
COMPOSE
CHROMA
KEY
DEMO
SETUP
LEARN
DISPLAY
CUT ➔
ABCD
COLOR
7
4
0
8
59 6
123
SPEEDFREEZE
SHIFT
ABCD
COLOR
CUT ➔ CUT ➔ CUT ➔ CUT ➔
VIDEONICS
OK
REVERSE
DIGITAL VIDEO MIXER
23 456 7 9 10 11
12
13
14
15
16
17
18
19
81
REAR PANEL
PREVIEW
OUT POWER
HEAD
PHONE
IN 4
IN 1
IN 2
OUT
IN 3
CONTROL
(GPI)
POWER CONTROL HEADPHONE PREVIEW V —IN 4 —S RLV S RLV S
IN 3
OUT IN 2 IN 1
V
LRV
LRVLRV
LRV
A
B
EC
DFG HI
A. INPUT 1
B. INPUT 2
C. INPUT 3
D. INPUT 4 (VIDEO ONLY)
E. OUTPUT
F. PREVIEW/CONTROL SCREEN OUTPUT
(COMPOSITE VIDEO)
G. HEADPHONE OUT
H. CONTROL INPUT (GPI TRIGGER)
I. POWER
INPUTS 1-3 AND MAIN OUTPUT INCLUDE JACKS FOR S-VIDEO, COMPOSITE (RCA-STYLE) VIDEO, AND RIGHT
AND LEFT AUDIO. JACKS ARE LABELED UPSIDE DOWN AT TOP OF PANEL TO FACILITATE CONNECTIONS
WITHOUT TURNING UNIT AROUND.

Videonics MX-1 Digital Video Mixer
INSTRUCTION
MANUAL
MX-1 Digital Video Mixer Instruction Manual •MANL-0521-02 • © 1994 Videonics, Inc.
The Videonics logo, Thumbs Up, and Videonics Video TitleMaker are registered trademarks
of Videonics, Inc. MX-1 is a trademark of Videonics.
Hi8 is a trademark of Sony Corporation. VHS is a registered trademark of JVC. Other product
and brand names may be trademarks or registered trademarks of their respective companies
and are hereby acknowledged.
Television screens are simulated.
Subject to change without notice.
This device is not to be used for the unauthorized copying of copyrighted material.
Videonics, Inc., 1370 Dell Avenue, Campbell, CA 95008 USA; 408-866-8300
VIDEONICS
DIGITAL VIDEO MIXER
1
2
3
4
5
6
7
8
9
0
OK
A
B
C
D
COLOR
SETUP
LEARN
CHROMA
KEY
COMPOSE
DISPLAY
DEMO
SHIFT
PLAY
(AUTO TAKE)
FREEZE
SPEED
ZOOM/
P-IN-P
WIPE
FADE /
DISSOLVE
BACK
BORDER
COLOR
COLOR
A
B
C
D
COLOR
AUDIO
VIDEO
INPUT
F/X
CUT
➔
CUT
➔
CUT
➔
CUT
➔
CUT
➔
REVERSE
FLIP

Chapter 1 •Introduction ...............1
In a Hurry? ................................................ 1
Helpful Sections ....................................... 1
For More Information ................................ 1
What is a Video Mixer?............................. 2
What is the MX-1? .................................... 2
Applications and Setups .......................... 3
Editing with the MX-1 ............................... 4
Chapter 2 •QuickStart ..................5
Chapter 3 •Installation ............. 10
Connections: Overall Concept............... 10
What You’ll Need .................................... 10
Types of Input and Output Jacks .......... 11
Types of Cables Used with
the Video Mixer .................................... 12
How Many Monitors? .............................. 12
IN and OUT Markings ............................ 13
Connecting Power, Outputs, Monitors... 13
Connecting Sources............................... 15
Chapter 4 •
Connecting Editing Equipment .18
Processing the Inputs vs. the Output .... 18
Adding Titles .......................................... 19
Audio Mixing........................................... 19
Edit Control ............................................. 19
Chapter 5 •Setup Screen .......... 20
Defaults................................................... 20
Automatic Connection............................ 20
Routing the Inputs .................................. 21
The Setup Screen................................... 21
Advanced Setup..................................... 22
Chapter 6 •Basic Controls........ 25
Built-In Demo.......................................... 25
The PREVIEW Screen............................. 25
Source Previews..................................... 26
Preview Image Quality ........................... 26
CURRENT and NEXT Source Selection. 26
Transition Controls ................................. 26
Viewing a Transition ............................... 27
Switching the Display............................. 27
Video Quality .......................................... 27
Chapter 7 •Switching (Cuts)..... 28
Switching to a Specific Source .............. 28
Cutting Back and Forth .......................... 28
Soft Cuts ................................................. 29
Chapter 8 •Transitions .............. 30
The Basic Concept................................. 30
Which Source is Which?......................... 31
Changing the CURRENT Source ........... 31
Choosing the NEXT Source ................... 31
Choosing the Transition Effect............... 32
Executing the Transition......................... 33
Setup for the Next Transition ................. 34
Performing the Next Transition .............. 34
Reverse................................................... 34
Chapter 9 •Audio Control.......... 36
Connecting Sound Sources ................... 36
The AUDIO/VIDEO control ..................... 36
Choosing a Sound Source ..................... 36
Sound Source Indicators ....................... 36
Sound Strategies .................................... 37
Headphones ........................................... 38
Chapter 10 •
Borders and Backgrounds ......... 39
The Solid Color Background.................. 39
Choosing Colors..................................... 39
Turning the Border On and Off .............. 40
Defining a Color...................................... 40
Chapter 11 •Input Effects......... 42
Defining Input Effects............................. 42
Chapter 12 •Freeze .................... 45
Stop Motion............................................. 45
Chapter 13 •Chroma Key........... 46
What is Chroma Key ?............................ 46
Advanced Feature.................................. 46
An Example ............................................ 46
Setting up the Picture for Chroma Key .. 47
Hints for Chroma Key Setup .................. 47
Performing a Chroma Key...................... 48
Ending Chroma Key ............................... 50
Contents

Chapter 14 •More Effects......... 51
Tint Effect................................................ 51
The “Thin Man” Effect............................. 51
Luminance Key....................................... 51
“Film Look” Effect ................................... 52
Color Bars............................................... 52
Black-Burst Generator............................ 52
Color Generator...................................... 53
Chapter 15 •
Picture-In-Picture (PIP) ............. 54
Definitions ............................................... 54
Applications............................................ 54
Creating a PIP Image ............................. 54
Ending PIP Mode.................................... 56
Chapter 16 •Compose ................ 57
What is Compose? ................................. 57
Rules for Compositions .......................... 58
Choosing the Background ..................... 58
Positioning and Sizing an Element ........ 58
Placing the Element ............................... 59
Adding More........................................... 60
Making Changes .................................... 60
Recording the Result.............................. 60
Ending Compose Mode ......................... 60
Chapter 17 •
Sequences (LEARN mode) .......... 61
What is LEARN Mode? ........................... 61
Notes....................................................... 61
Learning a Sequence............................. 61
Playing the Sequence ............................ 62
Ending Sequence Playback................... 62
Changing the Sequence ........................ 62
Number of Steps .................................... 62
Chapter 18 •TBC ......................... 64
Skip This Chapter? ................................. 64
What is a TBC? ....................................... 64
Using the TBC ........................................ 64
Dual TBC Mode ...................................... 64
Frame Rate Lock Setting........................ 64
Vertical Interval Data .............................. 65
Answers About the MX-1’s TBC............. 65
Contents
Chapter 19 •
Editing and Other Applications 67
Live Mixing ............................................. 67
Editing with Untimed Sources................ 67
Loosely Synchronized Tapes................. 67
Single-Source (A/A) Editing ................... 68
A/B Roll Editing....................................... 69
Titles ....................................................... 70
Other Accessories.................................. 71
GPI Trigger ............................................. 71
Automatic Input Scan Mode .................. 71
Chapter 20 •Video Quality ........ 72
Preview Image Quality ........................... 72
Video Scaling Artifacts ........................... 72
Slide/Compress Motion Effects.............. 72
Freeze Quality ........................................ 73
Upside-Down Video ............................... 73
Video Processing Artifacts..................... 73
Chapter 21 •Specifications...... 74
Chapter 22 •Glossary................. 75
Chapter 23 •Effects List ........... 81
Terms and Abbreviations ....................... 81
“Top 30” Effects...................................... 81

VIDEONICS DIGITAL VIDEO MIXER PAGE 1
Chapter 1 •Introduction
Congratulations on your purchase of the Videonics MX-1 Digital
Video Mixer. The MX-1 combines everything you need to work with
multiple video sources: A four-input video production switcher,
video mixer (dissolve unit), frame synchronizer/TBC (Time Base
Corrector) and special effects generator.
In a Hurry?
If you want to get started quickly, see the QuickStart section, Chapter 2.
Helpful Sections
The MX-1 is a sophisticated video production tool. Some of the concepts
used in this manual may be new to you. You may wish to consult these
sources:
• The Digital Video Primer (a separate pamphlet, included with the MX-1)
explains the basic concepts of mixing video signals and using digital
special effects.
• The Glossary section of this manual defines the specialized terms used in
the manual.
• A complete index is included at the back of this manual. It refers you to
appropriate pages in the Digital Video Primer as well as to the appropriate
sections of this manual.
For More Information...
...send in your registration card so we can keep you informed of new
developments and send you our newsletter*. Note that Videonics does not
sell its mailing list. Your name and address will remain confidential.
*The newsletter and certain other services are available for Videonics customers in the U.S.
and Canada. Elsewhere, contact your Videonics distributor or retailer.

PAGE 2 VIDEONICS DIGITAL VIDEO MIXER
What is a Video Mixer?
The Digital Video Primer explains mixer basics in detail but here is an
overview.
❷
❶
In the simplest form of video production, a video tape is played by one
machine (∂) and the resulting signal is recorded on a blank tape by a second
machine (∑). The player and recorder are coordinated (either manually or
automatically) so that the desired video material is recorded on a blank tape.
Note that there is only one source of incoming video and only one picture is
on the output screen at any given moment.
More advanced video productions use two sources of video (∂) and mix
them together:
❷
❸
❶
VIDEONICS
DIGITAL VIDEO MIXER
With the inclusion of a video mixer (∏), a wonderful thing happens: You
can put two sources on the screen at once. For instance, you could show a
great pass on one side of the screen and the coach’s reaction on the other. Or
you might begin your production with a shot of the ball and have it slowly
fade away while a long shot of the playing field fades in (a dissolve). Many
other transitions and effects are possible.
A video mixer is required to make this happen. It provides the electronics
needed to mix two signals and has controls that allow you to select which
source or sources are being sent to the recorder (∑) and which transitions are
being used.
A mixer can be used with great benefit in simple setups as well as complex
ones, but its use is required whenever two sources will share the screen.
What is the MX-1?
The MX-1 is a video mixer with many additional features. (See the Glos-
sary and Digital Video Primer for descriptions of the following functions.)
Four-Input Synchronized Switcher. The MX-1 has four inputs, not just
two, so you can leave all your sources connected. This capability is also
handy for live production settings in which up to four cameras or other
sources are available. The switcher is synchronized, which means there are no
picture disruptions when sources are switched.
Frame Synchronizer and Mixer. Any two inputs can be mixed together
using a variety of transitions (wipes, dissolves, etc.). The frame synchronizer
makes it possible to mix independent video signals.

VIDEONICS DIGITAL VIDEO MIXER PAGE 3
Picture-in-Picture (PIP). Two pictures can share the screen in various
configurations, including picture-in-picture, in which one source occupies a
small area and the other takes the rest of the screen. Example: The inset can
show the scoreboard while the rest of the picture shows the playing field.
Effects Generator. Effects can be used to enhance a source or to transition
between two sources.
TBC (Time Base Corrector). The time base of the MX-1’s output is always
automatically corrected. This makes the picture stable even when the inputs
are not.
Chroma Key and Luminance Key. “Keying” replaces parts of one picture
with another, based on their lightness (luminance key) or color (chroma key).
For example, you might shoot a picture of a football player in front of a solid
color screen and later show the shot with a shot of the football stadium keyed
into the solid color area behind.
Compose. The MX-1 includes a video painting system which can combine
video stills, color shapes, and moving video on one screen. You could create a
screen that contains a video still of the coach with a red border, combined
with a moving video of the players in action and stripes in the team colors.
Audio Mixer. Basic audio control is provided, with the ability to have the
sound change along with the video, or to have a constant sound source while
the picture changes. Audio can come from a video source or from external
audio devices.
Applications and Setups
The most common uses of the MX-1 are for video production and live
settings. Chapter 19, “Editing and Other Applications,” describes these func-
tions in more detail and explains how they are accomplished with the MX-1.
Multiple-Source Video Production. In a video production setup, one or
more VCRs, camcorders, video disc players, cameras, title generators, com-
puter graphics systems, or other video sources are connected to the MX-1’s
four inputs. The output is connected to a VCR which records the result.
The MX-1 determines what will be sent to the recording VCR. While the
original tapes play, the operator can switch between any of the inputs; use
dissolves or other transitions to go from one video to another; add special
effects to any source; and use advanced features such as compose and chroma
key to jazz up the production.
Single-Source Use. The MX-1 is useful even when there is only one video
tape playing. It supports A/A roll, a method for creating interesting transi-
tions with a single source, and its digital effects, such as picture freeze,
posterization, and zooms, can liven up any production. It can be used with a
titler to mix and superimpose titles. The TBC improves the picture, especially
when making multiple-generation copies, by removing the jitter that is
common to most VCRs. And the Compose feature can be used to create
additional images that can enhance the production.
Live Video. In a live production setup, an event is recorded as it occurs.
The Mixer allows the use of multiple cameras. While a single camera is

PAGE 4 VIDEONICS DIGITAL VIDEO MIXER
restricted to one point of view, multiple cameras catch more of the action. For
instance, a camera at the end of the field can be connected to one input while
a camera at the side goes to another. A third might be aimed at the an-
nouncer. The operator can switch or transition between them as the action
progresses. Taped sources can be included, too. Perhaps a VCR loaded with
shots of the ball players practicing could be used at appropriate moments. A
titler could be used to superimpose titles on the action.
Editing with the MX-1
Note that the MX-1 is not an edit controller — that is, it does not control
the VCRs and camcorders. You can control the decks manually or by using
an external edit controller (such as those made by Videonics). See Chapter 19,
“Editing and Other Applications” for more information.
In addition, the MX-1 can be used with other video production equip-
ment, such as title generators and video processors. Contact Videonics for
more information on its full line of video production equipment.

VIDEONICS DIGITAL VIDEO MIXER PAGE 5
Chapter 2 •Chapter 2 •QuickStart
Whether you’re a video expert looking for just the basic steps or a
beginner who wants instant gratification, this chapter will have you
mixing in minutes! If you run into problems or would like more
information, refer to the table of contents or the index to locate a
more complete discussion.
PREVIEW
OUT POWER
HEAD
PHONE
IN 4
IN 1
IN 2
OUT
IN 3
CONTROL
(GPI)
POWER CONTROL HEADPHONE PREVIEW V —IN 4 —S RLV S RLV S
IN 3
OUT IN 2 IN 1
V
LRV
LRVLRV
LRV
VIDEO
OUT AUDIO OUT VIDEO OUT AUDIO OUT
A
BC DEF
VIDEO
IN AUDIO IN VIDEO IN
Setup and Installation
• Connect the power supply (F) and turn the unit on, confirming that
the power light comes on.
• Connect the MX-1’s OUT jacks to the VIDEO and AUDIO IN jacks of a
VCR (D). Connect a television/monitor to the VCR in the normal
fashion (A), so that you will be able to see the VCR’s output. Turn the
television and VCR on.
• Connect the MX-1’s PREVIEW OUT jack to the VIDEO IN jack of a
second monitor (E).
Note: These instructions assume a two-monitor setup. If you are using only
one monitor, connect it to PREVIEW.
• Connect a camcorder, VCR or other source to IN 1 (B). Connect a
second source to IN 2 (C). Turn on the video sources and start the
tapes rolling.
• Press SHIFT and AUDIO/VIDEO at the same time and the MX-1 will
automatically find and use the inputs that have video signals con-
nected.
Demo
• Press DEMO. You should see the two sources alternating, with a variety
of transition effects in between. (If only one source is connected, the
demo will perform transitions from that source to itself.)
DEMO