7400 Test Signal Generator and Sync Pulse Generator

• Use as Master Sync Gen or lock to external reference or GPS
• Can output SD SDI, HD SDI, composite timecode and audio simultaneously
• Outputs can be independently timed
• Generates 30+ test signals
• Flash memory card for making custom test patterns

7400 SPG/TSG – Reliable and Easy-To-Use

The 7400 HD/SD Sync Generator and Test Signal Generator is a stable timing source that is perfect for local reference generation in broadcast, remote trucks and post. HD SDI, SD SDI, analog composite, HD Tri-Level Sync, timecode, AES audio and analog audio reference outputs are generated.

The 7400 can operate from an internal precision frequency reference as a stand alone Master Sync Generator or lock to a video reference or 10 MHz precision reference. Alternately, the 7400-GPS option can be used.

The 7400 can output multiple formats of tri-level sync, HD SDI test signals, SD composite and SDI test signals, and color black reference. The 7400 can simultaneously deliver both 525 (NTSC) and 625 (PAL) based signals. Color framing tracks the reference signal. All of the video outputs are derived from the same time base and can be timed with respect to each other. The 7400 has two identical generators, Generator A and Generator B, each with a variety of outputs. Each set of outputs can be timed with respect to the reference to any point in the television frame. All of the Outputs from a particular Generator must be selected within the same frame rate family.

The Avenue Frame features a retainer bar to ensure that modules remain properly seated even in the most demanding mobile environments.

Favorite Test Patterns

There are over 30 test signals including: Full and Split Field Bars at 75% and 100% with Pluge; Black; Flat Field; Pulse and Window; Ramp; Crosshatch; Safe Title; Blanking Markers; Cosite; Checkfield, Pathogenic, and 5 Step. The Cyclops feature adds a motion element to the selected video test signal to assist in locating a signal that might be frozen in a frame sync somewhere in the signal chain. An ID slate with user programmable text can overlay the test pattern.

Customizable Test Patterns

In addition to the standard suite of test patterns, users can create custom test patterns on a computer. Simply transfer test patterns to the included Secure Digital flash memory card using Avenue Logo software and a standard card reader, then insert the memory card into the 7400. Test patterns can include motion and an associated audio clip.

Audio Generators

The 7400 provides extensive support for analog and digital audio. Because all of the video outputs can be locked to a common time base, the AES digital audio outputs are always synchronous with all of the video outputs – regardless of format. Multiple tone generators make it easy to identify multi-channel content. With the 7400-EX Expando option, an AES input is provided which can be fed by a multi-channel encoded bitstream. This bitstream will be included in the set of signals that can be embedded into the test signal outputs.

The audio section of each generator supports sixteen audio channels. The content of each channel is independently programmable. Choices include adjustable frequency tone generators, tone sweeps, Silence, Timecode, Audio Clip playback from Secure Digital Card, and the external AES input. Left/Right Channel ID that synchronizes to the Cyclops feature can also be selected.

All sixteen of these channels can be embedded in the SDI outputs. Each AES output can select from any of the 8 pairs that make up these 16 channels. Similarly, the stereo analog output of each generator can be driven from any of these audio signal pairs.

Multiple Timecode Generators

Multiple time code generators make the 7400 convenient for post applications. Timecode is delivered as LTC both 75 Ohm BNC and 110 Ohm Balanced), VITC, and DVITC. One generator can be configured to produce 525/59.94 drop frame timecode while the other generator is making1080sF/23.98.

7400-EX Expando Module for Total Flexibility

If your facility seems to need every type of reference signal on earth, the 7400 module with the 7400-EX is just what you need. Two generators provide myriad reference signals including: 12 types of HD SDI black and bars, SD SDI bars and black, composite bards and black, HD Tri-Level Sync, Word clock, AES and analog audio tone, and LTC. The two generators can be independent or one generator can be locked to the other. The control system lets you assign signal types to the 17 output BNCs and 2 high-density D connectors. The 7400-EX option can be installed in the field.

7400-GPS Option for the Ultimate Precision Reference

For the ultimate in precision, the 7400-GPS option can be used with the 7400 module. The purpose of this GPS option is to provide an extremely precise frequency reference. The oscillator on the 7400-GPS is more accurate than a typical internal precision standard and is equivalent in accuracy to an atomic standard. Increased frequency accuracy makes it possible to frame synchronize signals between different facilities with virtually no dropped or doubled frames. The GPS option also provides precise time of day information, which can be used to drive the 7400 module’s internal timecode generators.

The 7400-GPS option seamlessly integrates into the Avenue system by plugging directly onto the 7400 module. It can be easily installed in the field. The 7400-GPS option consists of a compact, weatherproof antenna (with internal high-gain pre-amp) and a receiver sub module which mounts directly to the 7400 module. The included GPS antenna mounts onto standard 3/4” threaded pipe, metal or plastic. Connection from the F-style coaxial fitting on the antenna to the appropriate BNC on the Avenue Frame can be made with customer supplied standard 75 ohm cable. The coax cable can be routed through the center of the pipe for a completely waterproof installation. When low loss cable such as Belden 1694A is used, the antenna can be placed up to 200 feet (60 meters) from the frame. Ideally, the antenna is mounted outdoors where it has an unobstructed view of the sky.