LEI-564 Active Format Description Tool

Link Electronics introduces the LEI-564 which allows Active Format Description (AFD) data to be inserted into an HD/SD video signal, ensuring that the video is properly displayed, despite aspect ratio changes. The compact LEI-564 accepts either SD-SDI or HD-SDI input and transmits a re-clocked signal out through dual SDI outputs, providing a simple and reliable solution for adding AFD for the implementation of the up/down conversion process, eliminating manual adjustment of picture size. This technology, which is ideal for use with DTV receivers, up/down converters and other professional video equipment used within the broadcast, educational, government and other environments, eases workflow and preserves image quality, especially for video productions stored in a HD only format, with conversion to SD as needed for final transmission.

AFD is a system of codes used to tell DTV receivers, up/down converters, and other professional video equipment, how the video signal is to be displayed, especially if the aspect ratio has changed. AFD in video production is a versatile tool that eases workflow and preserves image quality. Properly managing AFD information is in demand for state-of-the-art digital work-flows. As video productions migrate to storing all their material in HD only and converting to SD as necessary for final transmission, the LEI-564 offers a simple and reliable solution for adding in AFD for the implementation of the up/down conversion process.

The video signal format can be a 270 Mb/s SD or 1.5Gb/s HD video stream. There is automatic detection of most SD and HD video standards. The signal presence and format are indicated on the display. The AFD data is inserted as vertical ancillary data on video lines allowed per format, selected by the user. The unit is controlled by an 8 character display, with menu navigation by 2 buttons and a rotary encoder.

The 4 modes of operation include; 'Detect', 'Insert', 'Delete' and 'Auto'. 'Auto' is used for inserting AFD, only if there is no AFD detected. 'Detect' mode will display the AFD already in the stream. Settings are saved in flash for easy configuration. The unit can regenerate the payload identifier (352M) for all outputs.

The LEI-564 is a one RU chassis that is housed in the same case as the well accepted 700 series. A black front panel distinguishes between the two series. Three 500 or 700 series can be mounted in the PRT-700 rack tray.