AJA Video Systems Press

AJA Video Systems‘ ROI-SDI scan converter recently began shipping. Wrapping intuitive Region-of-Interest (ROI) controls for professional SDI sources into a portable Mini-Converter form factor, it boasts a 3G-SDI input and simultaneous 3G-SDI and HDMI outputs, and facilitates incredible quality image scaling, in addition to region-of-interest and image rotation at a range of resolutions and frame rates.

ROI-SDI addresses a growing demand for customisable video signals to meet an array of display and workflow needs. It features extensive aspect ratio conversion and audio functionality and allows users to easily rotate source signals, define a portion of an image or reframe the source image from any 3G-SDI signal. Paired with free AJA Mini-Config software, ROI-SDI makes it easy to select a region-of-interest in realtime and on screen with complete control over how that region is scaled to the output resolution, enabling pristine picture quality.

ROI-SDI feature highlights include:
– 1x 3G-SDI BNC Input
– 2x mirrored processed outputs (1x 3G-SDI BNC and 1x HDMI)
– 1x clean 3G-SDI BNC loop out
– 1x USB port for device configuration via free AJA Mini-Config software running on Mac or Windows
– Support for a range of video formats including 1080p, 1080i, 720p, 625i and 525i
– 2-channel analogue RCA audio outputs; embedded 8-channel SDI audio; and 2-channel or 8-channel embedded HDMI audio

AJA Video Systems announced two new Mini-Converters supporting IP-based video and audio workflows at IBC 2016, held in Amsterdam between 9 and 13 September. The company simultaneously announced free v12.5 Desktop Software with new features for KONA IP that improve redundancy and reliability in Broadcast IP pipelines, including SMPTE 2022-7 support for protection switching.

IPR-1G-HDMI and IPR-1G-SDI Mini-Converters
IPR-1G-HDMI decodes VSF TR-01 and other JPEG 2000 streams, and formats the data for output on a full-size HDMI 1.4 interface. IPR-1G-SDI decodes VSF TR-01 and other JPEG 2000 streams, and formats the data for 3G-SDI BNC output. The rugged, fanless converters support a range of HD and SD formats, and are designed for several point-of-use applications – including source monitoring, digital signage and video walls. Key features include: embedded and RCA analogue audio outputs, a full 10-bit pixel processing pipeline, LAN control and status, and a USB 2.0 Mini-B Connector for simple network setup with AJA eMini-Setup Software.

New KONA IP features in v12.5 Desktop Software
AJA v12.5 software adds SMPTE 2022-7 to KONA IP, which offers a seamless protection switching experience. It allows users to send the the same uncompressed data stream from the top and bottom SFP+ cages onto two separate networks for easy routing of video over IP networks. New v12.5 software support for KONA IP also includes HDR 10 metadata support in AJA Control Panel. Support for SMPTE 2022-2 workflows with JPEG 2000 is planned for future updates.

“We’re continually exploring how we can alleviate the challenges professionals face in the transition to IP by creating future-proof solutions that will carry facilities through this new era of IP and beyond. Our new Mini-Converters and v12.5 software features for KONA IP deliver the latest IP video workflow features our customers have been asking for,’ shared AJA president Nick Rashby.

For more information visit the AJA Video Systems, Inc. website.

AJA Video Systems, on 18 April 2016, unveiled FS4, a digital frame sync and universal up/down/cross converter, supporting 4K, UltraHD, 2K, HD and SD workflows in a 1RU frame. FS4 offers exceptional flexibility and with two modes. Single-channel mode provides a full suite of video processing options for 4K/UltraHD with the ability to up, down, cross-convert to and from a 2K/HD/SD input or output. Four-channel mode enables four channels of 2K/HD/SD simultaneous processing, offering multi-channel density at a reasonable cost per channel.

“FS4 is the first frame synchroniser to market with this range of 4K/UltraHD conversion options that can also be easily switched to multi-channel mode with up to four channels of simultaneous processing for 2K/HD and SD workflows,’ said Nick Rashby, president, AJA Video Systems. “It is endlessly extensible, and packs an incredible range of functionality and features into a very small 1RU footprint perfect for mobile production trucks and small facilities—really any production or post scenario where multiple formats are being used.’

Key FS4 features:

– Support for two modes: Four independent channels of 2K/HD/SD or single-channel 4K/UltraHD frame–sync and conversion.
– 4K/UltraHD/2K/HD/SD video processing and up, down, cross-conversion.
– Full range of I/O options for 4K/UltraHD include Quad 1.5G; Dual 3G; and Quad 3G, 6G and 12G over a range of SDI and optional fibre choices.
– SMPTE 2SI I/O support for 4K/UltraHD workflow options.
– Four-channel 2K/HD/SD video processing and conversion.
– 1RU frame offering space, power and cost efficiencies ideal for broadcast trucks, post production or broadcast settings.
– Audio I/O processing with an incredible 272×272 matrix of audio possibilities; FS4 offers support for a flexible range of audio feeds from discrete AES to MADI and embedded SDI audio.
– Simple operation, a redesigned menu structure and quick access to features via front panel buttons or web UI.

For further information visit the AJA website.

On 9 February, AJA Video Systems announced RovoCam, the company’s first
compact block camera for industrial, corporate, security, ProAV and broadcast
applications. Striking UltraHD and HD imagery is captured with Sony optics with built-in 12x optical and up to 20x zoom with Sony Super Resolution Zoom.
RovoCam has an integrated HDBaseT interface supporting uncompressed video,
power, stereo audio and RS-232 control over a single CAT 5e/6 cable running at
lengths of up to 100 metres. Delivering this much functionality and power with
single cable connectivity greatly simplifies installation, camera setup and footprint requirements.

RovoCam is built around Sony’s 4K FCB-ER8300 Functional Camera Block featuring
the back illuminated CMOS sensor technology and Sony image processing for
excellent performance. Reliable, practical and compactly encased in rugged and
durable aluminum, RovoCam’s small and light form factor allows simple mounting in
a wide range of scenarios. RovoRx-HDMI, the companion receiver unit, offers the
simplest integration for RovoCam with an HDMI output, and all video/audio signals,
power, and control over HDBaseT. RovoCam is also compatible with select third
party receivers.

“AJA has always been known for supporting open standards with highly functional,
flexible and reliable technologies, and the release of RovoCam continues this trend.
Marrying our HDBaseT interface technology with Sony’s compact 4K camera delivers
incredibly powerful camera acquisition with very simple single cable setup and
operation,’ said Nick Rashby, president, AJA Video Systems. “We’ve partnered
closely with Sony for many years and RovoCam comes as the latest in a long line of
collaborations with them.’

For a full feature list as well as pricing and availability, visit the AJA website.

The Ki Pro Ultra is a next generation file-based 4K/UltraHD and 2K/HD video
recorder and player with a built-in HD LCD monitor. Ki Pro Ultra is capable of
capturing edit-ready 4K (4096 x 2160), UltraHD (3840 x 2160), 2K (2048 x 1080)
and HD (1920 x 1080) Apple ProRes files. Ki Pro Ultra also supports a range of
video formats and frame rates up to 4K 60p, and offers flexible input and output
connectivity – including 3G-SDI, fibre and HDMI – for powerful and efficient large-raster and high-frame rate workflows.

• Supports recording and playback of 4K/UHD resolutions up to 4K 60p.
• Apple ProRes support, including up to ProRes 4444.
• Records 4K/UltraHD and 2K/HD sources directly to reliable and affordable AJA Pak
SSD media, at capacities up to 1 terabyte.
• Extremely fast media changes and rollover recording with twin media drive bays.

• Professional connectivity with 3G-SDI, fibre and HDMI inputs and outputs, AES
and analog XLR balanced audio, LTC, RS-422 and LAN.
• All outputs are active all the time, for massive output and monitoring capabilities.

• “Always-on’ high-quality 4K/UHD to HD down-conversion.
• Intuitive menu structure and confidence monitoring on a built-in 4.8′ 720p LCD
display.
• Integrated web-based UI for complete control across the LAN on any web-
browser.
• A rotary selection knob for quick, accurate adjustment of configuration and
settings.
• RS-422 control for easy integration with supported editing systems and external
controllers.
• Dual redundant 12V power inputs with locking 4-pin connector (one 12V power
supply included).
• Standard 2RU high, 1/2 rack width, allows easy side-by-side rackmounting.
Included carrying handle also allows easy portability.
• AJA three-year international warranty and support included.

AJA has introduced the Ki Pro Ultra, a ProRes-based 4K/UltraHD and 2K/HD player/recorder that’s capable of capturing 4K video at frame rates up to 60p.

AJA product marketing manager Bryce Button says that sports is driving the demand for 60p recording and playback in the US and Japan, with Europe opting for 50p.The new Ki Pro Ultra is now shipping and occupies a half-width rack space and a height of 2 RU. The unit weighs just under 6lbs. and features a 4.8-inch HD display.

Two Pak SSD media slots allow for the use of two 1TB drives that, when combined,
can capture up to two hours of 4K/60p footage. That figure jumps to 13 hours of
recording when working at HD resolutions.

The Ki Pro Ultra features menu specific buttons and a rotary selection click-knob for
menu selecting. Transport control is made possible through dedicated buttons. On
the back, the Ki Pro Ultra features HDMI 2.0 compatible I/O, four SDI I/Os, and dual
power options for redundancy. An SDI monitor port allows for HD down conversion
to a monitor for on-set work. A LAN port allows for Web UI control, and LTC I/O is
also offered.

The following ProRes formats are supported: 4K 4096×2160; Ultra HD 3840×2160;
2K 2048×1080; HD 1920×1080 and HD 1280×720.

AJA’s KPU shelf option allows users to remove the Ki Pro Ultra’s handle grip for
installation into a rack. Pak media that’s currently available includes 1TB, 512GB and 256GB drives. AJA is also introducing the Pak-Adapt-CFast media adapter, which looks like the Pak media drive and allows customers with existing CFast cards to use them with AJA’s KiPro Quad and Ki Pro Ultra.

AJA Video Systems recently announced the release of its new Mini-Converters
including the HB-T-SDI, HB-R-SDI, ROI-HDMI and HD10MD4.

Originally announced during the IBC Show in Amsterdam, the Mini-Converters give
users additional options for extending SDI signals and easily incorporating computer
files into video production. Features of these new Mini-Converters include:

• HB-T-SDI and HB-R-SDI extend 3G-SDI signals over Ethernet cable, utilising
the industry standard HDBaseT protocol. Bi-directional IR and RS-232 for device
control is also supported. The Mini-Converters are ideal for fixed installation AV,
digital signage, live events, post-production, network, studio environments and on
set. These can also be mixed and matched with AJA’s HDMI-based HDBaseT Mini-
Converters, allowing customised video I/O on either end of the Ethernet connection.

• ROI-HDMI offers real-time region-of-interest scaling and SDI video output
from HDMI computer outputs, allowing users to incorporate computer signals into
the video world without sacrificing budget or space. Users interactively select a
region-of-interest on screen from the incoming HDMI signal and control how that
region is scaled to the output resolution using AJA’s scaling algorithms for a high
quality image. ROI-HDMI joins the growing family of AJA ROI converters, which also
offer DVI and DisplayPort connections.

• HD10MD4 is a miniature digital down-converter for converting HD-SDI video
to standard definition SDI and analogue component/composite video. The HD10MD4
uses a full 10-bit data path and multi-point interpolation to produce broadcast
quality down-converted video. In addition, the HD10MD4 converts either 1080p24 or
1080p24sf to 59.94 Hz output video using the standard 3:2 pull-down technique. The
output can be formatted for either 4:3 or 16:9 standard definition monitors. Four-
channel input embedded HD-SDI audio is passed to the SDI output. A mini-USB jack
allows configuration and control from the free Mini-Config application for Mac or PC.

These Mini-Converters are available now from AJA’s global network of resellers.

AJA Video Systems recently announced Corvid HEVC, a 4K and multi-channel HEVC
encoding card, as the latest addition to AJA’s Developer Programme. Corvid HEVC is a
PCIe 2.0 8-lane video encoder card providing real time, low-latency HEVC encoding
at 4K, 1080p HD and lower resolutions.

Development partners can use AJA’s SDK to integrate Corvid HEVC directly into
their Windows and Linux applications using a flexible API for a variety of use cases.
In addition to HEVC encoding, audio and metadata are also captured and included in
the encoded file.

Key Features:
• Realtime 4K/UHD/HD HEVC hardware-based encoding
• PCIe 2.0 8-lane full-height card
• Low power consumption
• Supports HEVC Main and Main10 profiles
• Supports 4:2:0 and 4:2:2 at 8- or 10-bits
• Supports bit rates for streaming and contribution quality
• Supported HEVC streams:
• Single 4K/UHD stream up to 60 fps
• As many as 4 streams at 1080p HD up to 60 fps
• 4x 3G-SDI inputs
• 1x LTC input
• 16-channel embedded audio support per stream
• ANC data support
• Supports file-to-file encoding
• Built on AJA’s powerful cross-platform NTV2 SDK for Windows and Linux
• AJA’s extensive Developer Program partner support

“Corvid HEVC integrates the latest 4K/UHD workflow technologies developed at AJA
into an incredibly robust PCIe card that our developer partners have been asking
for,’ said Nick Rashby, president, AJA Video Systems. “For everything from
4K/UHD, to independent, multi-channel or file-to-file encoding, Corvid HEVC
delivers real-time, low-latency, reliable performance under the hood.’