Test Signal Outputs
The SPG8000A can be optionally configured with a variety of test signal outputs. Option BG includes two composite analog outputs (NTSC or PAL) that can be used to generate test patterns such as color bars, or serve as additional black burst outputs.
Option SDI adds two fully independent serial digital video generator channels of two outputs each. Each channel can be configured to any standard 3G/HD/SD-SDI format and frame rate. The selected test pattern can be generated on both outputs per channel, or one output can generate digital black.
A wide variety of standard test patterns are included, such as color bars, convergence grid, step scales, ramps, multiburst, SDI pathological test matrix and a real-time programmable zone plate generator. Bitmap images can be downloaded to the SPG8000A's flash memory for arbitrary userdefined test patterns. ID text, burn-in time code, circle, and color logo overlays can be added to any test pattern, and several ancillary data packet types, including ancillary time code and user-defined packets, can be inserted into the SDI output signal.
Audio Reference Signals
Several audio reference signals are available on the SPG8000A. The base configuration includes a 48 kHz word clock output, and Option AG adds five AES/EBU output pairs. One pair is dedicated to a Digital Audio Reference Signal (DARS) output, and the other four pairs are used for test tone generation, with independent tone frequency and amplitude settings for each of the 8 channels.
Audio tone generation, including Dolby E format, is provided with Option SDI as embedded audio on each of the SDI outputs. Various Dolby E audio frame start locations can be set to test the error handling ability of the signal processing equipment in the signal path. Embedded Dolby E metadata are also included in the Dolby E test stream. Supported Dolby E program configurations include mono, stereo, 5.1 and 7.1 surround sound audio.
Remote Access
The SPG8000A includes a 10/100/1000BASE-T Ethernet interface for remote access to the instrument. A web-based user interface can be used for all configuration settings and for monitoring system status.
Alarm and key status information is also available using Simple Network Management Protocol (SNMP) messaging, enabling easy integration with network management systems. Remote control and alarm reporting is also available using a general purpose interface (GPI). The SPG8000A has a front-panel USB port that can be used to backup and restore presets and other user data, and to perform system firmware upgrades.
Optional Backup Power Supply
For mission-critical applications, the SPG8000A can be configured with a second power supply module. Under normal operation, the designated backup supply is seldom used, ensuring that it has maximum remaining life should the primary supply fail. The backup supply is load-tested once each day to verify that it can serve as the primary supply if necessary.
The usage time of each supply is logged as €œtemperature-weighted hours ", a metric that best estimates the calculated life of the supply. A front-panel LED will indicate when the supply is nearing its end-of-life.
If the primary supply is interrupted for any reason, the system will switch to the backup without any disruption to system operation. Power supply modules are hot-swappable for easy replacement, and feature a locking mechanism to prevent the power cable from accidental disconnection.
