Operation Manual

Multibridge

Windows™
May 2010
Contents

Multibridge Eclipse
Multibridge Pro

05 How to Install 46 Product Diagrams

Connecting to your PC 7 Multibridge Eclipse connectors overview 47
Installing Multibridge software 8 Multibridge Pro connectors overview 48

09 Software 50 Developer Information

Blackmagic Software 10 Blackmagic 2K Format – Overview 51
Setting Blackmagic Preferences 10 Blackmagic 2K Format – Vertical Timing Reference 52
Using Blackmagic Media Express  20 Blackmagic 2K Format – Data Stream Format 53
Blackmagic Disk Speed Test 30
Disk arrays 30 54 Using as a Converter
Third Party Applications 31
Installation as a Converter 55
Adobe Premiere Pro 31
Blackmagic Software 58
Adobe After Effects 34
Supported Connection Formats 62
Adobe Photoshop 35
Troubleshooting when used as a Converter 63
Supported File Formats 36
Troubleshooting Video Capture and Playback 37 64 Warranty

38 Connection Diagrams
3 Year Warranty Terms and Conditions 65

Connecting to a Betacam SP analog deck 39

Connecting to an SDI digital deck 40
Connecting to a Sony HDCAM SR deck in 4:2:2 41
Connecting to a Sony HDCAM SR deck in 4:4:4 42
Connecting to an HDTV 43
Connecting to an NTSC/PAL monitor 44
Connecting to a YUV component monitor 45
3 Welcome

Welcome to Multibridge!
We hope you share our dream of making the television industry a truly creative industry by allowing
everyone access to the highest quality video.
Previously high end television and post production required investment of millions of dollars in hardware;
however, Multibridge is the first uncompressed editing solution that includes the new 3 Gb/s SDI
connections, so features the highest quality video possible. We hope you get many years of use from your
new Multibridge and have fun working with some of the world’s hottest television and design software!
This instruction manual contains all the information you’ll need for installing your Multibridge for use as
either a video converter, or as a powerful PCI Express based editing, design, effects and broadcast paint
solution.
If you’re not much of a “tech head” and have not installed hardware cards in your computer previously, then
it might be a good idea to ask a technical assistant for help. As Multibridge features uncompressed video
capture and playback, and these data rates are quite high, you’ll need fast disk storage and a high-end PCI
Express computer if you’re working with uncompressed video formats.
Before you install Multibridge, please check our website at www.blackmagic-design.com and click the
support page to download the latest updates to this manual and Multibridge driver software.
Lastly, please register your Multibridge when downloading software updates. We would love to keep you
updated on new software updates and new features for your Multibridge.
Perhaps you can even send us your latest show reel of work completed on your Multibridge and
any suggestions for improvements to the software. We are constantly working on new features and
improvements, so we would love to hear from you!

Grant Petty
CEO Blackmagic Design
4 Welcome

Introducing Blackmagic Multibridge

Multibridge Eclipse and Multibridge Pro are bi-directional converters which feature built in PCI Express.
Connect to a supported PCI Express based Windows workstation for the world’s highest quality and
most versatile editing solution.

Connect to any deck, camera or monitor

Multibridge supports all the traditional video connections including standard and high definition SDI
4:2:2, SDI 4:4:4, analog YUV, S-video and NTSC/PAL video in and out. HDMI and 3 Gb/s SDI are also
included for connection to the latest video hardware. That’s great for connecting to any deck, camera
or monitor. Multibridge also features multiple channels of AES audio with sample rate converters on
all inputs. 12 channels are supported on Multibridge Eclipse and 8 channels on Multibridge Pro. For
analog audio, Multibridge supports stereo XLR audio in and out on Multibridge Pro and 4 channels on
Multibridge Eclipse, combined with two channel RCA audio outputs for low cost HiFi monitoring.

Advanced digital monitoring

Multibridge includes built-in HDMI capture and playback which is great for working with uncompressed
digital video and audio without the expense associated with SDI. With HDMI, Multibridge can support large
LCD and Plasma monitors or TV’s as well as video projectors. The HDMI input means you can also capture
uncompressed, digital video and audio from the latest video cameras which provide HDMI output.

World’s highest quality

Multibridge works natively in 4:2:2 for SD and HD, as well as RGB 4:4:4 for HD or 2K digital film resolutions.
Also included is the industry’s only true 14 bit analog conversion for the highest quality analog video.
Converter or a capture card
When not connected to your computer for editing, Multibridge works as a bi-directional video and audio
converter. Only Multibridge is two products in one so it will stay useful, long after the computer you plug it into.

Compatible with all video software

Compatible with QuickTime™ and DirectShow™, Multibridge can use a wide range of video software for
video capture and playback in either standard definition, high definition 4:2:2, high definition 4:4:4 RGB,
and even 2K digital film resolutions.
Multibridge lets you can customize your system for different tasks simply by selecting the video software
you prefer to use. Use Premiere Pro™ or Vegas 8™ for editing, then combine Adobe After Effects™ and
Photoshop™ for broadcast design and paint. Then finish your job by using DVD authoring software to give
your clients a DVD.
5 Welcome

Multibridge has two main modes which are distinguished by the PCI Express cable being connected to
your computer (capture and playback mode) or when not connected (converter mode).

Capture mode
When the PCI Express cable and adapter card are connected to your computer, Multibridge becomes a
PCI Express extension to your computer working as a video capture playback card. While independently
powered, it’s really a part of your system’s operating hardware, just as if it was connected internally.
This unique design allows more connector space for a breakout box style solution, while totally
eliminating the noise and interference from the computer’s digital electronics - so you get clean audio
and video, vital when working with precision broadcast quality analog signals.
Included 4 lane PCI Express card.
When you connect PCI Express to a host computer, Multibridge uses the same software as used on
Blackmagic Design’s DeckLink cards, so you get the same software compatibility, and options as a
DeckLink card. This means that when used as a capture playback device all settings on Multibridge can
be accessed via the Blackmagic control panel.

Note: Do not remove the power or disconnect the PCI Express cable from the workstation while the
workstation is powered on. Power off the workstation before unplugging the Multibridge power, or
disconnecting the PCI Express cable. When connected, make sure you tighten the PCI Express lock screws.
Also, the PCI Express cable is NOT a DVI cable and only a Blackmagic PCI Express cable should be used.

Converter mode
When the PCI Express connection is NOT connected to a computer, or the computer is connected but
Don’t disconnect with computer on.
turned off, Multibridge instantly switches to a stand alone converter. Multibridge can then be configured
Be sure to keep lock screws tight. via the USB 2.0 connection using the included Multibridge Utility software.
This manual has two sections, the first section describes using Multibridge as a capture and playback
device, and the second section describes how to use it as a stand alone converter.
6

How to Install
7 Installation

Installing Multibridge Eclipse and Multibridge Pro

1. Shutdown and remove the power plug from the back of your PC. This is a safety precaution before
opening your computer. Ensure that you are statically discharged by using a static strap.
2. Remove the chassis cover of your PC to gain access to the PCI Express slots.
3. Remove your Multibridge PCI Express card from the protective static bag making sure you don’t
touch the gold connectors on the base of the card. Although there are no electronics on this card,
these precautions should be taken when handling any PCI Express card.
4. Find a spare 4 lane, or faster, PCI Express slot within the PC. Remove the metal port access cover
and screw, from the back of your PC.
5. Insert your Multibridge PCI Express card and ensure that it clicks firmly into place.
Insert card into PCI Express slot. 6. Secure the card with the screw and replace the side cover of your PC.
7. Connect the PCI Express cable to the PCI Express card at the rear of the PC and connect the other
end of the cable to the PCI Express connector on your Multibridge. Please make sure you connect
the cable to the PCI Express connectors, and not the PC display connectors!
8. Connect USB 2.0 cable from host computer to Multibridge.
9. Power up Multibridge first, then reconnect the computer power and start up.
10. If the installed Multibridge software offers to update the firmware, click OK to run the update. When
the firmware update is finished, the onscreen instructions will prompt you to restart your computer.

Note: Do not remove the power or disconnect the PCI Express cable from the workstation while the
workstation is powered on. Power off the workstation before unplugging the Multibridge power, or
disconnecting the PCI Express cable. When connected, make sure you tighten the PCI Express lock screws.
Connect PCI Express cable here. Also, the PCI Express cable is NOT a DVI cable and only a Blackmagic PCI Express cable should be used.

If you want to disconnect your Multibridge, use this sequence:

1. Power off your PC.
2. Power off Multibridge.
3. Disconnect PCI Express cable.

Note: Connecting audio and video cables to the Multibridge can be done at any time while the unit is
Then connect PCI Express cable here. powered on or off. You can leave the PCI Express card in the computer when the PCI Express cable is
disconnected. It will then be ready to reconnect quickly when you need to use Multibridge as a capture
and playback device again.
8 Installation

Installing Multibridge Software

Contents
The Multibridge software installer will install the following components for you:
‚‚ Blackmagic drivers
‚‚ Blackmagic Control Panel
‚‚ Blackmagic Media Express application
‚‚ Blackmagic AVI and QuickTime codecs
‚‚ Blackmagic Disk Speed Test
‚‚ Blackmagic DirectShow SDK
‚‚ Blackmagic Multibridge Utility
‚‚ Adobe® presets and plug-ins
Multibridge Setup Wizard.
Multibridge software
1. The CD supplied with the Multibridge contains the Multibridge software. Before you install, ensure
you have the latest driver. Visit www.blackmagic-design.com/support
2. Open the “Multibridge Installer” folder and launch the “Multibridge Installer” application.
3. The drivers will now be installed on your system. If you are running Windows Vista or Windows
7, please skip to step 5. On Windows XP, a warning will appear that “Windows can’t verify the
publisher of this driver software” or about “logo certification”. Click Continue Anyway to
ignore this warning.
4. On Windows XP, you will see a dialog bubble saying “found new hardware” and the hardware
wizard will appear. Select Install Anyway and the system will find the required Multibridge
drivers. You will then receive another dialog bubble saying “your new hardware is ready for
use.”
5. Near the end of the software installation process, the software will check for connected
Click “Continue Anyway”.
Multibridge hardware to see what firmware it contains. If the firmware version does not match
the software version, Multibridge will offer to update the firmware. This is automatic and all
you need to do is click OK to start the update. After the firmware has updated, click the Finish
button to exit the setup wizard.
6. Finally, click Yes to restart your computer and to enable the new software driver.
If no Multibridge hardware was connected during step 5, the Multibridge driver software will check the
firmware version when Multibridge is next connected.
Restart your PC!
9

Software
10 Blackmagic Software

Setting Blackmagic Preferences

Multibridge preferences are located in the Blackmagic Control Panel. Different Multibridge models have
some different features. Any preferences not available to your Multibridge model will be grayed out and
unavailable. The following preferences contain options for setting up your Multibridge.

Settings
‚‚ Input and Output connections
‚‚ NTSC Setup
‚‚ 4:4:4 color mode
‚‚ Single Link/Dual Link switch
‚‚ 1080p/1080PsF switch
Blackmagic Control Panel.
‚‚ Black reference output during capture
‚‚ Field Jitter
‚‚ Output black/last played frame switch
‚‚ Reference Output Timing (Genlock)

Processing
‚‚ Down conversion
‚‚ Up conversion
‚‚ Lookup Table
‚‚ VITC Reader A Frame - 3:2 Pulldown Removal
‚‚ VANC input

Video Levels
Blackmagic Control Panel. ‚‚ Calibrate Analog Video In
‚‚ Calibrate Analog Video Out
‚‚ Betacam/SMPTE level switch

Audio Levels
‚‚ HiFi/Professional Audio Levels
‚‚ Analog Audio Input Levels
‚‚ Analog Audio Output Levels
‚‚ AES/EBU Input Reference Level
‚‚ AES/EBU Output Reference Level
11 Blackmagic Software

Setting Blackmagic Preferences

Video and audio output connections
All of the video and audio outputs of Multibridge are active all of the time and the only choice you need to
make on some models is between component (Y,R-Y,B-Y) analog video, S-Video or composite NTSC/PAL
Video and Audio Output Connections. analog video as they use shared connectors.
The SDI, HDMI and component (Y,R-Y,B-Y) analog video outputs support HD and SD video. S-Video and
composite analog video do not support high definition video and so you will not see video on these
outputs when working with HD video.
S-Video is supported on all Multibridge models and requires the use of an inexpensive S-Video adapter
cable. See the connection diagrams for S-Video towards the end of this manual.

Video and audio input connections

Your Multibridge supports all of the following combinations:
‚‚ SDI Video & SDI Audio
‚‚ SDI Video & AES/EBU Audio
‚‚ SDI Video & Analog XLR Audio
‚‚ HDMI Video & HDMI Audio
Video and Audio Input Connections.
‚‚ HDMI Video & AES/EBU Audio
‚‚ HDMI Video & Analog XLR Audio
‚‚ Y, R-Y, B-Y Video & AES/EBU Audio
‚‚ Y, R-Y, B-Y Video & Analog XLR Audio
‚‚ NTSC/PAL (Y In) & AES/EBU Audio
‚‚ NTSC/PAL (Y In) & Analog XLR Audio
‚‚ S-Video & AES/EBU Audio
‚‚ S-Video & Analog XLR Audio
12 Blackmagic Software

Setting Blackmagic Preferences

NTSC setup
The NTSC composite video used in the USA, and some other countries uses 7.5% setup. However setup
is only used in composite video, but is never used in SDI video. Your Multibridge will handle adding and
removing setup from NTSC video automatically for you. The USA and countries that use 7.5% setup should
enable this setting; if you’re working in Japan and countries that don’t use this setup, leave this set to 0 IRE
NTSC Setup. setup. The PAL and high definition standards do not use this setup.

Output 4:4:4 color mode

While most users work with 4:2:2 video, you will need to Select 4:4:4 on video output if you wish to
play out 4:4:4 video, such as when using a HDCAM SR deck in 4:4:4 color mode. This feature will only be
available if 4:4:4 video output is a feature of your Blackmagic capture device.
The choice of color mode may be overridden in some cases. For example, if 4:4:4 output was enabled for
use with 1080p50/60 video, Multibridge would ouput 4:2:2 video as there is not enough capacity in dual-
link HD-SDI or 3 Gb/s SDI connections to support this video mode.
Output 4:4:4 color mode
If you enable Select 4:4:4 on video output, the default setting is to use dual link 4:4:4 output.
Traditional dual link 4:4:4 requires two SDI cables which is more complicated and doubles the cabling
cost. However if your Blackmagic capture device includes 3 Gb/s SDI, you will also have available the
option to Use 3 Gb/s Single Link SDI not Dual Link SDI output with one SDI cable.
Choosing to Select 4:4:4 on video output will automatically disable the following features which
are present in some Blackmagic models:
• simultaneous HD and down converted SD video output
• down converted analog video output.
• set black reference on SDI video output during capture

Single Link/Dual Link switch

When working with video formats which require more bandwidth than a single HD-SDI connection will
provide, this option determines whether a dual-link HD-SDI, or a single-link 3 Gb/s SDI connection will
be used. This feature will only be available if dual-link HD-SDI and 3Gb/s SDI output are features of your
Blackmagic capture device.

Single Link/Dual Link switch

13 Blackmagic Software

Setting Blackmagic Preferences

Progressive HD1080 video
By default, progressive HD1080 video frame rates are treated as progressive segmented frame, ie 23.98PsF,
24PsF and 25PsF. If you enable Use 1080p not 1080PsF progressive HD1080 video frame rates will be
treated as true progressive, ie 23.98p, 24p and 25p.

1080p/1080PsF switch Black Video Output

This setting allows Multibridge to output a stable black signal on one video output, while outputting video
on the other output. Black Video Output is used for video referencing an SDI deck when you don’t have
a sync generator available. This allows the stable black video output to connect to the deck, and then by
setting the deck to “input reference” you can operate without a sync generator. If you’re not an SDI deck,
or you’re not using this mode, disable this setting to enable audio monitoring during capture.

Remove Filter Jitter

“Remove field jitter when video is paused” allows Multibridge to display only a single field when paused,
Black Video Output. while turning this mode off will display a complete frame in pause. Single field is similar to how Betacam SP
decks work when paused, eliminating field flicker from paused images.

If you’re doing work without interlaced video, such as animation, then you can turn this mode off
so you can see both fields in full resolution for best quality. Regardless of this setting, you always get the
correct full frame dual field output when in playback mode, as this setting only effects paused video.

Output black/last played frame switch

If you have switched out of a video application and so video is not being played, this setting determines
Video Output Behavior. whether your Multibridge will output black or the last played frame of video.
If you are adjusting LUT’s on your Multibridge, set this option to Last Played Frame so you can observe the
effect of any adjustment to LUT’s.
The extended desktop feature is no longer present in this software as it is no longer compatible with the
lastest version of the operating system. The DVI Extender product from Blackmagic Design can be used to
convert desktop output to SDI.
14 Blackmagic Software

Setting Blackmagic Preferences

Reference Output Timing
Genlock, also known as black burst, reference or house sync is used to lock various equipment in your
facility to the same timing point. When two or more video devices are connected to the same sync signal,
their video signals can be switched without jumping or rolling. This is critical when connecting equipment
in large post production facilities and broadcast stations.
To change video to reference timing:
Reference Output Timing
‚‚ Adjust the Set reference output timing for timed output until the picture locks and is no
longer rolling on the display.

HDTV Up/Down Conversion

The software drivers included with Multibridge, can be used to downconvert high definition to NTSC or
PAL video in real time during capture or playback. They also provide upconversion on capture. Select the
desired option from the output or input processing menus under the Processing tab.

Output Processing
‚‚ HD to SD Letterbox 16:9
‚‚ HD to SD Anamorphic 16:9
‚‚ 720p HD to 1080i HD

Output HD 23.98PsF at HD 59.94i

HDTV Up/Down Converter
output processing 23.98 fps is a common film frame rate but support for this frame rate in SDI and analog monitors is rare.
Enabling this option will apply 3:2 pulldown processing so that HD 23.98 PsF video is output as HD 59.94i.
Almost all HD monitors support HD 59.94i.

Input Processing ‚‚
‚‚ 1080i HD to SD Letterbox 16:9 ‚‚ 720p HD to SD Anamorphic 16:9
‚‚ 1080i HD to SD Anamorphic 16:9 ‚‚ SD Letterbox 16:9 to 1080i
‚‚ 720p HD to SD Letterbox 16:9 ‚‚ SD Anamorphic 16:9 to 1080i

HDTV Up/Down Converter

input processing
15 Blackmagic Software

Lookup Tables (LUT’s) in Multibridge for Windows

Multibridge Eclipse and Multibridge Pro can use 1D or 3D LUT’s during playback. Lookup tables can
be used for standard definition and high definition video as well as 2K film. Lookup tables are not
implemented in standalone convertor mode.
1D LUT’s are useful for altering the brightness of an image but do not affect color. They are often used
when working with log video so that the image can be displayed on screen as normal linear video. Built-
in 1D LUT’s are provided for log to linear conversion when capturing from Panasonic Cinegamma™ and
Viper Filmstream™ cameras.
3D LUT’s provide the ability to increase and decrease the amount of color in each color channel,
independently from brightness. This allows for precise color grading to ensure a video monitor matches
the color printed to tape or film.

How to use Lookup Tables in Multibridge

When the Blackmagic Control Panel is opened to access the Multibridge lookup table settings, your
broadcast monitor will usually stop showing any video being played and instead will show black or an
extended desktop. It is possible to replace this, with the last played frame of video, so that adjustments
to lookup tables can immediately be seen on the frame of video.
To use this feature, open the Blackmagic Control Panel. Under the Settings tab, look for, “When not playing
video, send ... to all the video outputs.” This setting is usually set to Black but might be set to Extended
Desktop if using Windows XP. Switch it to “Last Played Frame” and then restart the computer.
After the computer has restarted, use your preferred video software application to play some video
and then open the Blackmagic Control Panel. The last played frame of video should remain on your
broadcast monitor. Click on the Processing tab within the Blackmagic Control Panel. A Lookup Table
button is available for output processing and can be used even when all other processing functions are
set to “Off”. Click on the Lookup Table button and then activate the Enable Lookup Tables checkbox.
The lookup table interface in Multibridge can be adjusted using a method similar to that used for image
adjustment with the Curves feature in Adobe Photoshop™. The horizontal axis of each graph represents the
original color input values and the vertical axis represents the new colour output values. When first opened,
each lookup table displays a straight diagonal line because the color values have not yet been changed.
Changes made to the lookup tables can immediately be seen on all SDI, analog and HDMI outputs of
the Multibridge. Changes are saved to the Blackmagic preferences by clicking the OK button. Lookup
tables can be reset to original values by clicking the Reset Unity button. Lookup table processing can
be disabled by deselecting the Enable Lookup Tables checkbox for output Lookup Tables.
Click on the Lookup Table button.
16 Blackmagic Software

Importing and exporting 3D LUT’s

Multibridge Eclipse and Multibridge Pro support the popular Autodesk .3dl, IRIDAS .itx and IRIDAS
.cube lookup table formats when importing 3D LUT’s.
3D LUT’s can also be exported from Multibridge Eclipse and Multibridge Pro in the .cube format.
Multibridge uses the .cube format to store 3D LUT’s internally as this is a most memory efficient way to
store complex lookup tables. Both 3D LUT’s created with curves in the lookup table interface, and 3D
LUT’s imported from .3dl, .itx and .cube files, are exported from Multibridge in the .cube format.
The .cube file format is fully compatible with the following Blackmagic Design products which share the
Load Lookup Table from File. same LUT format: Multibridge Eclipse, Multibridge Pro (October 2007 model) and HDLink Pro.

Importing and exporting 1D LUT’s

Multibridge Eclipse and Multibridge Pro can import 1D LUT’s. The 1D file format is any tab-delimited
text file with red, green and blue values for each record and the first line (title line) is skipped. Lookup
tables need to be 1024 records long with the first line reserved for the title line. A file named “HDLink
Example 1D Lookup Table.txt” is included on the installer disk.
1D LUT’s can also be exported from Multibridge Eclipse and Multibridge Pro in the same text format
mentioned above. Both 1D LUT’s created with the curves in the lookup table interface, and 1D LUT’s
imported from text files, are exported from Multibridge in the same text format.
Load Built-In Lookup Table.
The 1D LUT text file format is fully compatible with the following Blackmagic Design products which
share the same LUT format: Multibridge Eclipse, Multibridge Pro (October 2007 model), Multibridge
Extreme (DVI output), HDLink Pro, HDLink and DeckLink HD Pro 4:4:4 (PCI-X).
1D LUT’s can also be exported in the .cube 3D LUT format for use in 3D coloring applications.

Lookup Table interface.

17 Blackmagic Software

Setting Blackmagic Preferences

VITC Reader A Frame - 3:2 Pulldown Removal
Set A-frame VITC reference (to) Frame ## in 23.98 fps capture from NTSC using
3:2 pulldown

This option decodes the VITC and uses it to correctly locate the A-frame when performing 3:2 pulldown
Set the A-Frame VITC Reference when while capturing video at 23.98fps. Carefully set the correct A-frame VITC reference to match the timecode
performing 3:2 pulldown. on tape. Selecting the wrong A-frame will generate incorrect presentation of fields and frames.

Preserving Blanking Data or VANC

This feature lets you use up to 3 video lines at the top of a captured movie file to store any 3 lines from
vertical blanking. This allows 3 line timecode, VITC (vertical interval test signals) subtitle info or any other
VANC data to be preserved during capture. These lines are then inserted back into the video blanking
VANC preferences. when the file is played back.
To preserve VANC data:
1. Open the Blackmagic Control Panel.
2. Select the VANC and 3:2 Pulldown tab and tick the On check box for video line 1, 2 or 3
depending on how many blanking lines you want to capture.
Note: Video file line 1 needs to be enabled for lines 2 and 3 to work.
Because these lines can be passed to the application, a developer could write software to read the VANC
data and use it for various purposes, e.g. 3-line timecode and audio chasing, or other uses.
An example of VANC data is 3-line timecode, which uses lines 18, 19, and 20 in NTSC or lines 19, 20 and
21 in PAL. 3-line timecode, as used in AATON™ equipped telecine suites, featuring audio timecode and
keycode information along with the normal timecode numbers.
18 Blackmagic Software

Setting Blackmagic Preferences

Video Levels
A video processing amplifier (Video Proc Amp) is provided for use with analog video and chroma levels
and ideally should always be used in conjunction with a waveform monitor. By contrast to digital video,
analog video can suffer from inconsistencies even between identical analog devices such as two analog
tape decks. The video level controls can be used to correct inconsistencies in analog video input and
output. The option to Calibrate Analog Video In will only be available if the Set Input option in
the Settings are set to an analog video option. If a digital input is being used, such as SDI or HDMI, or if
your Blackmagic capture device does not include analog input, the option to Calibrate Analog Video
In will remain grayed out and unavailable. The Reset Gain button resets the video levels back to their
original settings.
By default, Blackmagic products use SMPTE component analog levels as almost all analog video monitors
and modern video equipment use SMPTE levels. Sony Betacam SP decks can use Betacam levels and you
may need to enable the checkbox Use Betacam Y,B-Y,R-Y Levels with these analog decks. Sony CRT
monitors support Betacam and SMPTE levels to allow direct monitoring from a Betacam SP deck. These
Video levels monitors include a switch so you can choose between Betacam and SMPTE and you also need to choose
the corresponding SMPTE/Betacam setting in the Blackmagic Video Levels. If in doubt, try a test capture
and you should see a very noticeable brightness shift if you choose the wrong levels.

Audio Levels
An audio processing amplifier (Audio Proc Amp) is provided for use with analog audio. It can be used to raise
or lower an audio signal. By contrast to digital audio, analog audio can suffer from inconsistencies between
audio channels and so analog audio channels can be adjusted independently from each other. AES/EBU
audio is digital and does not suffer from level inconsistencies between audio channels. Accordingly all AES/
EBU audio channels are raised or lowered together. The Reset Gain button resets the audio levels back
to their original settings.
Professional analog audio levels and XLR audio connectors are standard on DeckLink and Multibridge
products. If you need to connect to consumer audio equipment with analog RCA inputs, enable the option
to Use HiFi Audio Levels and use an inexpensive XLR to RCA adapter for each audio connection.

Audio levels
19 Blackmagic
Welcome Media Express

Welcome to Media Express 2.0.

Blackmagic Media Express 2.0 is a sophistocated software application which enables UltraStudio, DeckLink,
Multibridge and Intensity users to capture, play back and preview video and audio via Blackmagic capture
hardware. DeckLink, Multibridge and UltraStudio users can also master to tape, using insert or assemble edit,
with frame accurate RS-422 device control.

Media Express 2.0 replaces all previous versions of Blackmagic Deck Control and Blackmagic Media Express.
We hope you love the new interface and features.

Media Express has an intuitive interface and requires a 1920 x 1200, or 1280 x 800, pixel computer display to
compliment its uncluttered appearance. The capture, playback and master views are color-coded so you will
know at a glance which mode is being used.

Media Express uses many of the same keyboard shortcuts which are standard in the video industry so there is
little to learn. Use j, k, l to shuttle backwards, pause and shuttle forwards, or use i and o to mark in and
out points when batch capturing or mastering to tape. Hold down the control and shift keys to reveal a jog wheel
and then use your mouse, with the jog wheel, for precision control of your tape deck.

VITC timecode is supported via RS-422 and RP188 timecode is supported via SDI.

DeckLink, Multibridge and UltraStudio users can use the Media List feature to log multiple clips for batch capture
or to seamlessly play back multiple clips from a playlist and master them to tape.

Media Express can directly capture to, and play back from, DPX files or movie files.

Use the Grab Frame feature to capture still images during capture, playback or when mastering to tape.
Frame grabs are saved in the targa (.tga) graphic file format.

Blackmagic Media Express 2.0 is not NLE software and does not have a timeline. It is a great tool when you don’t
need the complexity of NLE software but simply want to capture, play back and output clips to tape, especially
when working with video compositing software.
20 Blackmagic
Welcome Media Express

Blackmagic Media Express 2.0 Interface

Media List

Search field

Remote indicator

VTR / deck timecode

Video Preview

Transport Control

Mark In / Mark Out

Track enable/disable

Project name, video format

and frame rate
21 Blackmagic
Welcome Media Express – Preferences
Media Express preferences are accessed from Edit>Preferences.

Project Video Format

Project Video Format defines the frame rate and frame size of the current project. The formats displayed are
those supported by your Multibridge and you may see some differences when compared to running Media
Express with DeckLink, Multibridge, UltraStudio or Intensity.

Capture File Format

Capture File Format sets the video codec and file format when capturing in the current project.

On Windows, the capture file format options are either AVI movies or DPX files. A choice of Blackmagic
Uncompressed or Motion JPEG codecs can be made when capturing to AVI movies.

Preferences

Video formats

Capture file formats

22 Blackmagic
Welcome Media Express – Media List
The Media List holds a list of clips used in a project. When in Capture view, the Media List can be a list of clips
to be batch-captured. Media List becomes a playlist when used in Playback or Master view. These views are
explained later in the manual.

The Media List can contain clips that are of different codecs as long as they are of the same frame rate and size.
The Media List is a project which can contain clips of the same frame size and frame rate.

The list can be sorted by each column heading. Columns can be rearranged and widened if desired.

The order of the clips in the list can be sorted manually by dragging and dropping within the list. Single or
multiple clips can be dragged and dropped together.

The film strip icon on the left of the list shows whether a clip has linked media. If a clip has no linked media,
the film strip icon displays a red “X” and selecting the clip will show a “Media Offline” message in the Video
Preview Window.

Clips can be added to the list by:

‚‚ double-clicking on an empty area in the list
‚‚ selecting File > Import > Media Files
‚‚ right-clicking on the list and selecting ‘Import Media Files’
‚‚ capturing a clip from tape.
Right-clicking in the Media List will open a contextual menu. Depending upon the menu item chosen, Media
Express will switch to the appropriate Capture, Playback or Master view that fits the operation. For example,
right-clicking on a clip, and selecting “Batch Capture” while in Playback view, will cause Media Express to switch
to Capture view and carry out the batch capture operation.

Media Express can play back files of different codecs, in the same playlist, as long as they are of the same frame
rate and size. For example, you may have a mix of 1080p23.98 MJPEG and 1080p23.98 Uncompressed video
clips in the same playlist and Media Express will play them out seamlessly.

Contextual menu

Media List showing an untitled clip which is not linked to any media. Right-clicking on the missing media icon will reveal a
contextual menu from where Batch Capture can be selected.
23 Blackmagic
Welcome Media Express – Capture

Capture View showing the contextual menu, in the Media List, can be used to start a Batch Capture. This performs the same function as clicking the Get Clip button.
24 Blackmagic
Welcome Media Express – Capture

Capture operations are performed in the Capture view (ctrl-1)

Capturing on the fly.

Ensure the Project Video Format is set to the format of video you wish to capture.

Ensure the Capture File Format is set to the format you wish to capture.

Connect a video source to an input of your Multibridge. Ensure the desired input has been selected in the
Blackmagic control panel.

If deck control is required, ensure an RS-422 serial cable is connected and “remote” has been selected on the
deck. If an RS-422 cable is not connected, or “remote” is not selected on the deck, the transport controls will be
grayed out and “No Remote” will be displayed in the top right corner of the Video Preview Window.

Enter Reel and Name information into the information area. The Name will be applied to the clip(s) which are
about to be captured.

Before capturing, the audio channels to be captured can be switched on or off via the track enable/disable
buttons. The video track cannot be turned off.

Click on the “Capture” button to commence capturing.

To end capture, click on the “Capture” button again or press the “Esc” key.

Logging Clips for future batch capture.

Click the Mark In button to mark the In point, or use the shortcut key i.

Click the Mark Out button to mark the Out point, or use the shortcut key o.

Click the Log Clip button to log the clip, or use the shortcut key p. The entry should now appear in the Media
List window.

Continue logging other clips.

When logging is completed, select the clips in the Media List and either:
‚‚ Click on the ‘Get Clip(s)’ button.
‚‚ Right-click on the selection and select ‘Batch Capture’.
25 Blackmagic
Welcome Media Express – Capture
Capturing a clip with precise In and Out timecode.

Click on the Mark In button to mark the In point or use the shortcut key i.

Click on the Mark Out button to mark the Out point or use the shortcut key o.

Click on the Get Clip button.

Media Express will cue the tape and precisely capture the clip from the In to the Out timecode points, including
any handles specified in the application preferences.

While capturing, if the file name (Name) of a clip already exists on the selected capture drive, the user will be
prompted if they want to over-write the file or not. If ‘No’ is selected, the file name will be auto-incremented
with a number.
26 Blackmagic
Welcome Media Express – Playback
Capture

Playback View
27 Blackmagic
Welcome Media Express – Playback
Capture

Playback operations are performed in the Playback tab (ctrl-2)

Importing clips into the Media List

Import media into the Media List using one of the following methods:
‚‚ Double-click on an empty area of the list.
‚‚ Select File > Import > Media Files.
‚‚ Right-click on the list and select ‘Import Media Files’.
‚‚ Capture a clip from tape.
Any of these actions will reveal an Open Video Clip window where more where one or more files can be selected.

If the files being imported match the frame rate and size of those in the Media List, the import will be successful.

If the files being imported do not match the frame rate and size of existing clips in the Media List, the user will be
prompted to create a new project and to save the current project.

If the current project has had no changes, and has already been saved, the user will only be prompted to start a
new project as there is no need to save the existing project.

Playing back a single clip

Selecting a clip (single click) on the list will load it into the Video Preview Window.

To play back a single clip in the Media List, double click the clip and it will start playing in the Video Preview Window.

To loop the playback of the clip, click on the loop button in the transport control. The selected clip will now play
back and loop until the user clicks on the pause button or presses the spacebar.

Playing back multiple clips

To play back multiple clips, select the clips in the Media Library and click the Play button or press the spacebar.
Selected clips in the playlist will be played back in sequence. Unselected clips will not be played.

If no clips are selected, the whole playlist is played back, starting from the last-played clip.

Clicking on the loop button will cause the playback to loop.

During playback, the audio channels being monitored can be switched on or off via the track enable/disable
buttons. The video track cannot be turned off.
28 Blackmagic
Welcome Media Express – Master
Capture

Master View
29 Blackmagic
Welcome Media Express – Master
Capture

Mastering to tape operations are performed in the Master view (ctrl-3)

Media Express can use Multibridge to master to tape via Insert or Assemble editing.

Only clips that are selected in the Media List will be output to tape. If no clips are selected, it is assumed that the
entire Media List will be output.

To master to tape, click on the Master view and ensure RS-422 device control is connected.

Enter the In and Out points of the tape by entering timecode into the respective text boxes, or by cueing the tape
to the desired point via the transport control and then clicking the Mark In button, or use the shortcut key i.

If no Out point is entered, Media Express will set the duration of the edit to the total length of the clips in the
Media List. If an out point is defined, Media Express will leave edit mode once the Out point timecode is reached,
even if some clips have not been output.

The Insert and Assemble buttons are mutually exclusive and only one mode can be selected at a time.
This determines which mode Media Express will use to master to tape. Select the Insert or Assemble
button as required.

The Preview and Master buttons are also mutually exclusive. Clicking on either button will instruct Media Express
to proceed with the specified operation. Preview mode mimics the edit process but does not record to tape.
This mode allows one to check the edit point is correct.

Preview edit operations should always be checked on monitors connected directly to the output of the deck to
view the preceding video already on tape, the new video and the following video already on tape.

If Record Inhibit is enabled either on the deck or on the tape in the deck, Media Express will display a dialog box,
when the user clicks on the Master button, informing the user that Record Inhibit is enabled. Check the deck/tape
and disable Record Inhibit before trying again.

Before mastering, the audio channels to be put to tape can be selected on or off via the track enable/disable
buttons. The Video track cannot be turned off.
30 Blackmagic Software

Blackmagic Disk Speed Test

If you want to check your disk array speed, Blackmagic Disk Speed Test can be run to check the array
speed, and to provide the results in video frame rates. This makes it much easier to understand how
various disk arrays will handle video capture and playback at various video resolutions and frame rates.
Disk Speed Test provides more accurate results for large disk arrays, as often the manufacturer provided
speed results only check small data blocks; so you only get an indication of the cache speed of the disk
and not the sustained data rate of the disk. Video uses sustained data rates and only Disk Speed Test
provides a long burst of data for more accurate results.
When using Disk Speed Test, you need to account for disk seeking, so it’s best to add a healthy margin
to the results. If a disk array tests at 32 frames per second HD 1080, it doesn’t mean you can do 29.95 HD
capture and playback, as the margin is too tight. However it should do 24 fps ok.

Disk Speed RAID results after testing a disk array

Disk arrays
If you intend to run your disk array as a software stripe, you will need to make sure that ‘host RAID’ is
disabled. Use the “Disk Management” tool in “Computer Management” within Windows™ to set up
your software RAID, or refer to third party instructions when using pre-configured hardware RAIDs.
Further information can be obtained via the Windows™ Help and Support. Search and review the section
on “Dynamic Disks”. This section will provide you with information on how to convert a basic disk to
dynamic disk and configuration steps on striping your disk array.

Disk Management
31 Third Party Applications

Adobe Premiere Pro CS5

Adobe Premiere Pro® is a powerful real-time video and audio non-linear editing application. Full presets for
Premiere Pro are included with the Blackmagic driver software and will be automatically loaded into your
system during the installation process. Premiere Pro must be installed on your system before running the
Blackmagic driver installer.
Premiere Pro can capture and playback with sequences of different formats within the one project. For
Adobe Premiere Pro example, Multibridge can capture 1080i59.94, 1080i50 and NTSC video to corresponding sequences within
the one Premiere Pro project.

Setting Up
1. Launch Premiere Pro CS5.
2. Create a New Project and set the Capture Format to Blackmagic Capture.
3. Click on the Properties button and then choose from the desired properties for your project.
The Video Standard can be set to NTSC, PAL, HD720, HD1080 or 2K. The Video Format can be
uncompressed or compressed and you should also specify the number of audio channels to be
captured. Now click OK.
4. Select your disk array as the Location for your media.
5. Set the location and type the name of your project. Click OK.
New Sequence 6. The New Sequence window will appear. Select the desired Blackmagic preset, give the sequence
a name and then click OK.

Audio
Blackmagic software features support for multiple channels of audio in Premiere Pro CS5 using the
Blackmagic audio plugin. Blackmagic audio hardware is automatically chosen when a new project is created
and the capture format is set to Blackmagic Capture. The choice of audio hardware can also be configured
through Edit > Preferences > Audio Hardware. The ASIO Settings button serves no function as
ASIO audio is not used for capture or playback.
You may also wish to visit Edit > Preferences > Audio Output Mapping to select the mix of the
multi-channel audio. Set Map Output for to either Blackmagic Audio or Blackmagic Audio (CS5)
as both are the same as each other.
Audio Output Mapping
32 Third Party Applications

Device Control
Multibridge includes RS-422 device control for connection to decks. Blackmagic Device
Control is automatically chosen when a new project is created and the capture format is
set to Blackmagic Capture. The choice of device control can also be configured through
Edit > Preferences > Device Control.
Device Control The Options button is disabled as the settings are automatically detected and configured when you choose
Blackmagic Device Control.

Player Settings
The default player should be switched from Adobe Player to Blackmagic Design Playback. The choice of
player settings can be configured through Edit > Preferences > Player Settings.

Playback
As a quick test to make sure everything is connected correctly, use the Premiere Pro test media (Bars and
Tone or Universal Counter Leader). Drag your test media from within the Premiere Pro project and drop it
on to the timeline. You should now see the image on both your computer desktop and the output of your
Multibridge. If you can’t see any video on your Blackmagic output, check the connections again and ensure
you have the correct output settings configured in the Blackmagic Control Panel. SDI, HDMI and analog
outputs are always active.

Capture
To capture choose: File > Capture [F5]
To immediately capture, click the red record button [G]. If you wish to log the clip, enter the desired In and
Out points using either the Set In and Set Out buttons, or manually by typing the timecode and clicking
Log Clip. The empty clip will now appear in the Project window. Repeat this until you have logged all of
the clips you wish to batch capture.
To change the capture format, click on the Settings tab and then the Edit button. Ensure the Capture
Format is set to Blackmagic Capture, click on the Properties button and then change the Blackmagic
Capture Settings as desired.
Capture
33 Third Party Applications

Batch Capture
Select the clips you wish to capture by drag selecting or shift-clicking each clip. Then choose:
File > Batch Capture [F6]. To set handles on the clips, enable the option to Capture with handles
and type the number of additional frames you require at the start and end of each clip.

Export to Tape
To export to tape, select the sequence you require and then choose File > Export > Tape
Insert editing requires unbroken timecode over the full length of the project which is to be laid to tape. The
process of creating unbroken timecode is referred to as “blacking the tape”.
In assemble mode the tape needs only to be “blacked” until a point just beyond the start time of the
project. As assemble editing erases the tape ahead of the record heads, it should not be used where other
projects already exist on the tape after the out point of your edit.
When editing to tape, the software waits at the first frame of your project for the deck to drop into record
at the predetermined timecode. At that exact moment, the software begins to play until the edit is
completed. Should you find that either the first frame of your program is repeated or lost, during the edit
to tape procedure, you will need to adjust the playback offset to bring the deck and computer in sync.
You should only need to do this once with any combination of deck and computer and the correct setting
will be retained.
Now, simply enter the desired in point and offsets if required, and click OK.

Export to Tape
34 Third Party Applications

Adobe After Effects CS5

It’s very easy to setup playback and rendering in Adobe After Effects® for a complete broadcast and design
workstation that connects direct to decks for capture and playback of clips. Multibridge also supports real
time preview while working on your compositions.

Create a New Composition

Go to the “Composition” menu and select Composition > New Composition (Control + n) In the
Launching Adobe After Effects dialogue box, select the desired television standard from the pulldown menu. Click OK

How to use Multibridge as a Preview Output Frame Buffer

To allow your Adobe After Effects composition to be displayed in real-time through your Multibridge, go to
Edit > Preferences > Video Preview. Select Blackmagic Video Output and the appropriate
Output Mode. This lets you view your Adobe After Effects compositions in the correct video colorspace on
your broadcast monitor as you work. You will always see the correct color and interlace when working, and
you don’t have to wait until your composition is rendered to see what it looks like when output as video.

Rendering
When you have completed your composition, you will need to render to a pixel format supported by
Multibridge. Following is a list of some supported codecs:
“Composition Settings” options

AVI codecs QuickTime codecs

‚‚ Blackmagic 10 bit 4:4:4 (RGB) ‚‚ Blackmagic RGB 10 bit (4:4:4)
‚‚ Blackmagic 10 bit 4:2:2 ‚‚ Blackmagic 10 bit
‚‚ Blackmagic HD 8 bit 4:2:2 ‚‚ Blackmagic 8 bit
‚‚ Blackmagic SD 8 bit 4:2:2 ‚‚ Blackmagic 8 bit (2Vuy)
‚‚ Blackmagic 8 bit MJPEG ‚‚ Apple Photo-JPEG
‚‚ Adobe DVCPRO HD ‚‚ Apple DV - NTSC
‚‚ Adobe DVCPRO50 ‚‚ Apple DV - PAL

“Video Preview” preferences

35 Third Party Applications

Adobe Photoshop CS5

Multibridge includes Adobe Photoshop® plug-ins, so you can directly capture and output still frames
from within the Photoshop application itself.
If you’re working with 10 bit HD/SD-SDI, you can even import and export 16 bit Photoshop images for
full quality. Use Multibridge keying to export and key graphics from the video input using Photoshop
alpha channels.

Import an image into Photoshop

Launching Adobe Photoshop
1. From Photoshop select File > Import > Blackmagic Image Capture
2. Select the “Video Input Format” and the “Image Bit Depth” and then click Capture Image.

Export an image from Photoshop

1. Select File > Export > Blackmagic Image Export
2. Select Video Output Format and then Output Image.
Image Capture Note: Once you have set the options in the “Export” window, each subsequent Export will not display
the window so you can output frames much faster. However, if you would like to change your export
formats, hold the Ctrl key when selecting export.

Image Export
36 Supported File Formats

Uncompressed data rates for capture and playback

The data rates for uncompressed video are quite high, and listed below are minimum recommended disk
requirements for uncompressed standard definition and high definition video.

Uncompressed 10 bit YUV (4:2:2)

Standard Definition
Frame Size MB per second MB per minute GB per hour
720x486/29.97fps 27 1 600 94
720x576/25fps 26 1 582 93
High Definition
1280x720p/60fps 141 8 438 494
1920x1080/24PsF 127 7 594 445
1920x1080/50i 132 7 910 463
1920x1080/60i 158 9 482 556
Uncompressed 10 bit RGB (4:4:4)
High Definition
1280x720p/60fps 211 12 656 742
1920x1080/24PsF 190 11 391 667
1920x1080/50i 198 11 865 695
1920x1080/60i 237 14 238 834

Due to disk seeks, when calculating the data rates required for your disk system, it is a good idea to add a
safety margin due to fluctuations in disk speed. Disk speeds can be increased by adding more disks.
Serial ATA (SATA) disks can reduce to half their speed as they become full, so in a 2-disk SATA array you
should aim for a 100% safety margin. In an 8-disk SATA array, a 30% safety margin should be adequate. SCSI
disk arrays seem to display less fluctuation and so a 20% safety margin should be adequate for an 8-disk
SCSI array. Generally the more disks in the array, the better.
Note: Although other vendors and third parties may provide different data rates for uncompressed video,
the above recommendations are tested for use with Multibridge.
37 Troubleshooting

Using your Multibridge as a capture and playback solution when connected to a computer is exciting, but
also complex due to the huge range of different software applications. Video data rates are also very high,
so the disk array you use for video storage can have a big impact on your system’s performance.
Information about a wide range of disk array solutions and compatible application software would be
outside the scope of this manual, however there are three ways to get more information.
There are four steps to getting help.
1. Check out the Blackmagic Design website www.blackmagic-design.com/support for the latest
support information. We have a huge number of technical notes covering all the common
questions we are asked.
2. Call your reseller. Your reseller will have the latest technical updates from Blackmagic Design and
should be able to give you immediate assistance. We also recommend you check out the support
options your dealer offers as they can arrange various support plans based on your workflow
requirements. Your reseller will also understand your disk array configuration, and as disk array
problems account for around 90% of support questions with NLE systems, your reseller or disk
array vendor will be able to provide expert help.
3. The next option is to email us with your questions using the web form at
www.blackmagic-design.com/support/contact
4. Phone a Blackmagic Design support office. Please check our web site for current support phone
numbers in your area. www.blackmagic-design.com/company/.
Note: Please provide us with as much information as possible regarding your technical problem and
system specifications so that we may try to reproduce your problem quickly. Also please let us know how to
reproduce any problem you’re having, so we can try it on our test systems before replying to your email.
38

Connection Diagrams
39 Connection Diagrams

Connecting to a Betacam SP analog deck

This example shows Multibridge connected to an analog deck. The HDMI and SDI outputs can be
used for local monitoring.

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40 Connection Diagrams

Connecting to an SDI digital deck

This example shows Multibridge connected to an digital deck in 4:2:2 SD mode. The HDMI, analog
and spare SDI outputs can be used for local monitoring.

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41 Connection Diagrams

Connecting to a Sony HDCAM SR deck in 4:2:2

This example shows Multibridge connected to a Sony HDCAM SR™ series digital 4:2:2/4:4:4 deck in
4:2:2 HD mode. The HDMI, analog and spare SDI outputs can be used for local monitoring.

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42 Connection Diagrams

Connecting to a Sony HDCAM SR deck in 4:4:4

This example shows Multibridge connected to an digital deck in 4:4:4 HD mode. In this case 2 SDI
connections are used for 4:4:4 SDI video in and out. The HDMI and analog outputs can be used for
local monitoring.

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43 Connection Diagrams

Connecting to an HDTV
This example shows Multibridge connected to a consumer HDTV with HDMI input. Connect the
HDMI cable from the HDTV to Multibridge‘s HDMI output. As the video format is changed between
SD and HD on the computer, the HDMI video output from Multibridge will also switch between SD
and HD. The HDTV will usually scale an SD image to fill most of the HD display.

HDTV with HDMI

IN CONTROLS
IN OUT
VIDEO IN HD/DVD IN

S VIDEO Y
DIGITAL OUT
(OPTICAL)
PB

VIDEO
HDMI PR
IN AUDIO

PC IN L L L
AUDIO L
AUDIO AUDIO
RGB
R R R
R

AUDIO OUT

Computer
44 Connection Diagrams

Connecting to an NTSC/PAL monitor

This example shows Multibridge connected to a Sony PVM monitor via composite analog video.
Composite analog video can only be used for standard definition video. If the video standard
is switched between NTSC and PAL on the computer, the composite analog video output from
Multibridge will also switch between NTSC and PAL.

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45 Connection Diagrams

Connecting to a YUV component monitor

This example shows Multibridge connected to a Sony BVM monitor via component analog video.
As the video format is changed between SD and HD on the computer, the component analog video
output from Multibridge will also switch between SD and HD.

ANALOG CONNECTORS

ANALOG CONNECTORS
REMOTE 1 Y/G
IN IN

OUT

PB/B
REMOTE 1
OUT
IN

REMOTE 1 Y/G
IN
OUT
IN
PR/R
IN

REMOTE 2
OUT

OUT
MAIN POWER

I
SYNC
IN O

AC IN
ISR OUT

CONTROL UNIT
PB/B
REMOTE 1 IN
OUT

OUT

PR/R
IN

REMOTE 2
OUT
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AC IN
ISR OUT

CONTROL UNIT

Computer
46

Product Diagrams
47 Product Diagrams

Multibridge Eclipse connectors overview

Analog Analog Analog Analog Digital Digital Digital Digital Digital Digital Digital Digital Digital Digital Digital Digital
Audio Audio Audio Audio Audio Audio Audio Audio Audio Audio Audio Audio Audio Audio Audio Audio
IN IN OUT OUT IN IN IN IN IN IN OUT OUT OUT OUT OUT OUT
CH 3 CH 4 CH 3 CH 4 CH 1/2 CH 3/4 CH 5/6 CH 7/8 CH 9/10 CH 11/12 CH 1/2 CH 3/4 CH 5/6 CH 7/8 CH 9/10 CH 11/12

PCI Express USB

HDMI HDMI
Analog Analog Analog Analog Remote SD/ SD/ SD/ SD/
IN OUT
Video Video Video Video Monitor IN/OUT HD-SDI HD-SDI HD-SDI HD-SDI
Analog Analog Analog Analog NTSC/PAL Y B-Y R-Y Audio IN IN OUT OUT
Audio Audio Audio Audio OUT OUT OUT OUT Left CH-A CH-B CH-A CH-B
IN IN OUT OUT OUT
CH 1 CH 2 CH 1 CH 2

REF IN Analog Analog Analog

Video Video Video Monitor
Y/NTSC/PAL B-Y R-Y Audio
IN IN IN Right
OUT
48 Product Diagrams

Multibridge Pro connectors overview

DB-25 pin outs also compatible

with Yamaha™, Mackie™, Sony™
and Apogee™ connectors.

Analog Analog
Audio Audio Monitor
OUT OUT Analog Analog Analog Analog Audio
CH 1 CH 2 Video Video Video Video Left
OUT AES/EBU Digital Audio
NTSC/PAL Y B-Y R-Y IN & OUT
OUT OUT OUT OUT (8 Channels)
PCI Express

USB
HDMI HDMI
REF IN Analog Analog Analog Remote SD/ SD/ SD/ SD/
IN OUT
Video Video Video Monitor IN/OUT HD-SDI HD-SDI HD-SDI HD-SDI
Analog Analog Y/NTSC/PAL B-Y R-Y Audio IN IN OUT OUT
Audio Audio IN IN IN Right CH-A CH-B CH-A CH-B
IN IN OUT
CH 1 CH 2
49 Product Diagrams

Device Control pin connections

5 4 3 2 1
All Multibridge models feature an RS-422 serial control port, compatible with Sony™ deck control pin
connections and protocol.
Multibridge features an industry standard Sony™ compatible deck control port, that has the correct pin
connections for a direct connection to any deck. If you would like to use custom cables (e.g. to increase
length), use the wiring diagram. You can also use pre-manufactured 9 pin cables as long as each end of
9 8 7 6
the cable are wired “pin for pin” where the same pin number on each end of the cable are connected
Receive Receive Transmit Transmit Ground together.
(–) (+) (–) (+) Pins
2 7 8 3 1, 4, 6, 9

Remote pin connections.

13 12 10 8 7 6 5 4 3 2 1

Multibridge Pro AES/EBU digital audio pin connections

Multibridge Pro features 8 AES/EBU digital audio inputs and outputs on a multi-pin DB-25 connector. All
inputs have sample rate converters. The DB-25 pin out is compatible with Yamaha™, Mackie™, Sony™
and Apogee™ connectors.
25 24 23 22 21 20 19 18 17 16 15 14

DB-25 pin outs also compatible with Yamaha™, Mackie™,

Sony™ and Apogee™ connectors.

Audio Ch. Hot Pins (+) Cold Pins (–) Ground Pins
1&2 IN 1 14 10
3&4 IN 2 15 12
5&6 IN 3 16 13
7&8 IN 4 17 22
1&2 OUT 5 18 23
3&4 OUT 6 19 24
5&6 OUT 7 20 25
7&8 OUT 8 21

Multibridge Pro AES audio connector pin connections.

50

Developer Information
51 Developer Information

Blackmagic 2K Format – Overview Frame Structure

‚‚ Transmitted at 23.98, 24 or 25 frames per second as a Progressive Segmented Frame.
The latest Blackmagic Design products use the new
‚‚ Active video is 2048 pixels wide by 1556 lines deep.
3 Gb/s SDI video, which allows twice the data rate of
traditional HD-SDI video. We thought it would be a ‚‚ Total lines per frame : 1650
really nice idea to add 2K film support, via this new ‚‚ Active words per line are 1535. One word consists of a 10-bit sample for each of the four data streams,
3 Gb/s SDI technology, so we could simplify feature film i.e. a total of 40 bits. See the diagram named Blackmagic 2K Format - Data Stream Format.
workflows. With the popularity of Blackmagic Design ‚‚ Total active lines : 1556
editing systems worldwide, now thousands of people ‚‚ Total words per line : 1875 for 23.98/24Hz and 1800 for 25Hz.
can benefit from a feature film workflow revolution. ‚‚ Fields per frame : 2, 825 lines each
‚‚ Active lines located on lines 16-793 (field 1) and 841-1618 (field 2).
This information includes everything product
developers need to know for building native 2K SDI Transport Structure
equipment. Of course, all Blackmagic products can ‚‚ Based on SMPTE 372M Dual Link mapping and SMPTE 425M-B support for mapping SMPTE 372M
be updated, so if the television industry adopts an into a single 3 Gb/s link.
alternative SDI-based film standard, we can add ‚‚ Timing reference signals, line number and line CRC insertion is the same as above.
support for that too! ‚‚ Optional ancillary data is inserted into both virtual interfaces.
‚‚ At present, only audio data is included: as per standard HD audio insertion (SMPTE S299M) the audio
data packets are carried on data stream two and audio control packets are carried on data stream one.
‚‚ During active video, 10-bit Red, Green and Blue data is sent in the following sequence:
Data stream1: Green_1, Green_2, Green_3, Green_5...Green_2047
Data stream 2: Blue_1, Blue_2, Green_4, Blue_5...Green_2048.
Data stream 3: Red_1, Blue_3, Blue_4, Red_5...Blue_2048.
Data stream 4: Red_2, Red_3, Red_4, Red_6...Red_2048.

The diagram, Vertical Timing Reference, shows the vertical timing details with line numbers and Field,
Vertical and Horizontal bits for the Timing Reference Signal codes.
The diagram, Data Stream Format, shows the data stream formats around the optional ancillary data
section of the horizontal line. Note that each active pixel takes up three samples.
52 Developer Information

Blackmagic 2K Format – Vertical Timing Reference

FIELD 1 ACTIVE

F 1 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0

V 1 1 1 1 1 1 0 0 0 0 1 1

LINE # 1650 1 2 … 14 15 16 … 792 793 … 825

FIELD 2 ACTIVE

F 0 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1

V 1 1 1 1 1 1 0 0 0 0 1 1

LINE # 825 826 827 … 839 840 841 … 1617 1618 … 1650
 4
3
2
1

PsF
DATA
DATA
DATA
DATA

25 PsF
WORD#
WORD#
STREAM
STREAM
STREAM
STREAM

23.98/24
1795 1870 R2042 R2041 B2041 G2041

1796 1871 R2043 B2043 B2042 G2042

1797 1872 R2044 B2044 G2044 G2043

1798 1873 R2046 R2045 B2045 G2045

1799 1874 R2047 B2047 B2046 G2046

1800 1875 R2048 B2048 G2048 G2047

53 Developer Information

1 1 EAV(3FFh) EAV(3FFh) EAV(3FFh) EAV(3FFh)

2 2 EAV(000h) EAV(000h) EAV(000h) EAV(000h)

Blackmagic 2K Format – Data Stream Format

3 3 EAV(000h) EAV(000h) EAV(000h) EAV(000h)

4 4 EAV(XYZh) EAV(XYZh) EAV(XYZh) EAV(XYZh)

5 5 LN0 LN0 LN0 LN0

6 6 LN1 LN1 LN1 LN1

7 7 CRC0 CRC0 CRC0 CRC0

8 8 CRC1 CRC1 CRC1 CRC1

9 9 200 040

… … … …
DATA
DATA

ANC/AUDIO
ANC/AUDIO

260 335 200 040

261 336 SAV(3FFh) SAV(3FFh) SAV(3FFh) SAV(3FFh)

262 337 SAV(000h) SAV(000h) SAV(000h) SAV(000h)

263 338 SAV(000h) SAV(000h) SAV(000h) SAV(000h)

264 339 SAV(XYZh) SAV(XYZh) SAV(XYZh) SAV(XYZh)

265 340 R2 R1 B1 G1

266 341 R3 B3 B2 G2

267 342 R4 B4 G4 G3

268 343 R6 R5 B5 G5
54

How toasInstall
Using a Converter
55 Using
Installation
as a Converter

Installation as a Converter
Multibridge operates as an independent converter when not connected to a computer via PCI Express, or
when the computer is connected but turned off.
All that’s required for converter operation, is for there to be no PCI Express connection. The default
settings allow SDI to analog conversion while simultaneously converting analog into SDI with both
audio and video.
These defaults can be changed to various combinations of conversion options, and you can choose
which SDI audio pair are de-embedded or embedded into various audio connections on the converter.

Requirements
Supported systems
‚‚ Windows XP™, Windows Vista™ Ultimate or Windows™ 7 Pro
‚‚ 32 and 64-bit Windows™ operating systems
‚‚ USB 2.0

Environment
1. The intended use is for commercial and industrial controlled environments.
2. The unit should not be exposed to extreme environments including moisture, dirt, heat or light.
For installation in an OBV (outside broadcast vehicle) the unit should be rack-mounted to avoid
extended periods of vibration.
Note: Power connectors are located at the rear of the unit.

Warning
Do not disconnect power or USB cables while firmware is being updated. It is vital the firmware update
process is completed without malfunction. Stable operating conditions should be maintained to
guarantee usability.
Solid copper-core HD-SDI cables will work reliably over 300 feet or 100 meters. Cables should be shielded
and installed away from power supplies, generators or other potential EMF sources.
56 Using
Installation
as a Converter

Installation procedure
1. Install Multibridge software package.
‚‚ This can be downloaded from www.blackmagic-design.com/support
‚‚ Reboot after installation.
2. Start Multibridge Utility by clicking on the Multibridge Utility icon.
Start > All Programs > Blackmagic Design > Multibridge > Multibridge Utility

3. Connect power and USB cables. Multibridge will be detected by the computer.
4. A system message may appear requesting that you update firmware.
USB Power ‚‚ Select Update Firmware (This can take a couple of minutes.)
‚‚ Once complete, disconnect the power.
Connect USB and power cables.
‚‚ Wait 5 seconds and then reconnect.
Note: If the message does not appear, your firmware is already up to date.
5. The menus of the Multibridge Utility should now be accessible and you should now be able
to modify the settings. If you find any menus are grayed out and inaccessible, it may be that
the menu is not relevant to the current workflow and has been automatically grayed out.
If all menus are grayed out, you may need to download a newer version of the Multibridge
Utility. Alternatively, the computer may not be connected to Multibridge via USB. Sometimes
older USB 1.1 cables don’t work well with USB 2.0 connections and it is better to use a well
shielded USB cable.
Updating firmware.
57 Using
Installation
as a Converter

Interfaces
Workflow View
Workflow View enables users to graphically configure and depict analog-to-digital, digital-to-analog
and digital-to-digital workflows.

A-D D -A
Workflow Workflow
Bi-Directional Converter

Analog Audio In 1& 2 SDI Input Format

1 audio
SDI Channel 1 & 2 4:4:4 RGB
2 A-D
Digital to Analog Conversion Mode
Analog Audio In 3 & 4 SDI In to Component Out
3 audio
SDI Channel 3 & 4
4 A-D
Y (G)
AES Digital Audio Inputs
video B-Y (B)
SDI Channel 5 & 6 1& 2 SDI input D-A
SDI Channel 7 & 8 3&4
audio de-embedder R-Y (R)

SDI Channel 9 & 10 5& 6 NTSC / PAL

SDI Channel 11 & 12 7& 8

HDMI
SDI Channel 13 & 14 9&10

SDI Channel 15 & 16 11&12

AES Digital Audio Outputs
1& 2 SDI Channel 1 & 2
Analog to Digital Conversion Mode 3&4 SDI Channel 3 & 4
Analog In to SDI 4:2:2 Out
5& 6 SDI Channel 5 & 6
Use Analog Component Inputs
7& 8 SDI Channel 7 & 8

Y (G)
9&10 SDI Channel 9 & 10

B-Y (B)
video 11&12 SDI Channel 11 & 12
A-D SDI output
R-Y (R) audio embedder Analog Audio Out 1& 2
audio 1
SDI Channel 1 & 2
NTSC /PAL D-A 2

HDMI
Analog Audio Out 3 & 4
audio 3
SDI Channel 3 & 4
D-A 4
HD/SD-SDI Outputs
audio 1
Audio Monitoring Audio Out
D-A 2
Video
58 Using
Installation
as a Converter

A-D Blackmagic
D -A Software
Workflow Workflow
Video Converter
Workflow example 1 – Connecting analog deck to SDI system
Analog Audio In 1& 2 SDI Input Format
1 audio
Don’t Embed
SDI Channel 1&2
2 A-D
4:2:2
This workflow example shows how to connect a Sony Betacam SP™ deck in and out, via Multibridge for
Digital to Analog Conversion Mode
Analog Audio3&4
In 3 & 4
SDI Channel
Don’t
SDI Embed5&6
Channel
3 audio connection to an SDI based system. You can place Multibridge right next to your analog deck to “turn it
SDI In to YUV Analog Out

A-D -A device” in your system, or on your routing switcher.

A-D

Ddigital
4
SDI Channel 7&8
AES Digital Audio Inputs
SDI Channel 9&10 into
video an SDI
Y (G)

B-Y (B)
Don’t Embed11&12 1& 2 SDI input
SDI Channel Workflow D-A Workflow
SDI Channel
Don’t Embed13&14 audio de-embedder R-Y (R)

To begin, power on Multibridge and launch Multibridge Utility software.

3&4
SDI Channel
Video 15&16
Converter
Don’t Embed 5&6 NTSC / PAL
Don’t Embed
Don’t Embed
Analog Audio In 1& 2 7& 8 SDI Input Format
1 HDMI
audio
Don’t Embed 9 &10 4:2:2
Don’t Embed
Analog Audio In 3 & 4
2
11&12
A-D
Analog to digital connections
Digital to Analog
AES Conversion
Digital Mode
Audio Outputs
3 SDI
1&In
2 toOff
YUV Analog Out
audio
Don’t Embed
Analog to Digital Conversion Mode
Select “SDI
Analog InChannel
to Audio
SDI 4:2:2 Out1&2”.
4 A-D 3&4 Off1. Connect Betacam SP analog audio out to XLR inputs 1 and 2 on your Multibridge. From the pull
Y (G)
AES Digital Inputs 6 Off
5&video
Don’t
Use Embed
Analog Component Inputs SDI input 7& 8D-AOff
down menus within the Multibridge Utility select:
B-Y (B)

Don’t Embed audio de-embedder R-Y (R)

9 &10 Off
Y (G)
Don’t Embed
B-Y (B)
video
5&6
11&12 Off
Analog
NTSC / PAL Audio In 1 & 2 > SDI Channel 1 & 2
Don’t Embed A-D 7& 8 SDI output
HDMI
You may be prompted to “Embed this input” if another audio source was previously configured to
Analog Audio Out 1& 2
R-Y (R) audio embedder
Don’t Embed 9 &10 audio 1
SDI Channel 1&2
NTSC
Don’t/ PAL
Embed 11&12
D-A 2 AES Digital Audio Outputs

HDMI
1& 2
3
Off
Analog embed
Audio Out 3 & 4 to SDI channels 1 & 2.
Analog to Digital Conversion Mode audio Off
3&4 SDI Channel 3&4
D-A 4
Analog In to SDI 4:2:2 Out

A-D 2. -A Betacam SP Y,B-Y,R-Y out to Analog Y-B-Y,R-Y Multibridge Video In.

Connect
HD/SD-SDI Outputs

D
5& 6 Off
Analog
Use AnalogIn toComponent
SDI 4:2:2 Out
Inputs
audio 18
7& Off
AudioIn to SDI 4:4:4 RGB Out
Analog Monitoring Audio Out
SDI In to SDI 4:2:2 Out
Video
Y (G)
Workflow D-A 2
9 &10 Off From the pull down menus in the Multibridge Utility select:
Workflow
SDI In to SDI 4:4:4 RGBvideo
Out 11&12 Off
B-Y (B)
Video
HDMI Converter
In to SDI 4:2:2 Out
R-Y
HDMI
A-D
(R) In to SDI 4:4:4 RGB Out
SDI output
audio embedder Analog to Digital Conversion Mode > Use Analog Component Inputs
Analog Audio Out 1& 2
Analog Audio In 1& 2 SDI Input Format
audio 1
1 audio SDI Channel 1&2
NTSC
Don’t/ PAL
Embed 4:2:2 D-A 2
2 A-D
Digital to Analog
Analog Conversion
Audio Out 3 &Mode
4
HDMI Audio In 3 & 4
Analog
Don’t Embed
3 audio
audio
D-A Digital to analog connections
3
SDI In toSDI
4
YUVChannel
Analog 3&4
Out
HD/SD-SDI
A-D Outputs
Select “Analog In Inputs
to SDI 4:2:2 Out”. 4
Y (G)
AES Digital Audio
Audio
Don’t Embed SDI input
audio
D-A
1
video 4. Connect Multibridge analog audio out to XLR inputs 1 and 2 inputs on your Betacam SP deck.
Monitoring Audio
B-YOut
(B)
2 D-A
Video
Don’t Embed audio de-embedder
From the pull down menus within the Multibridge Utility select:
R-Y (R)

Don’t Embed 5&6 NTSC / PAL

Don’t Embed 7& 8 SDI

HDMI Channel 1 & 2 > Analog Audio Out 1 & 2
Don’t Embed 9 &10

Don’t Embed 11&12

1& 2 Off
5. Connect the Multibridge Y,B-Y,R-Y out to Analog Y-B-Y,R-Y Betacam SP video In. From the pull
AES Digital Audio Outputs

Analog to Digital Conversion Mode

Analog In to SDI 4:2:2 Out
3&4 Off down menus in the Multibridge Utility select:
5& 6 Off
Use Analog Component Inputs
Use Analog Component Inputs
7& 8 Off
Digital to Analog Conversion Mode > SDI Input to YUV Analog Output
YUse
(G) Analog NTSC/PAL Input
9 &10 Off
Use(B)
B-Y S-Video Input video
A-D SDI output
11&12 Off
To store this profile for later recall, select New Profile from the “Profiles” menu and enter a name.
R-Y (R) audio embedder Analog Audio Out 1& 2

NTSC / PAL
audio
D-A
1

2
You can save various profiles to make setting up Multibridge faster in the future.
SDI Channel 1&2

HDMI
Analog Audio Out 3 & 4
After configuring Multibridge to these settings, you will now be using Multibridge as a bi-directional
audio 3
SDI Channel 3&4
D-A 4
HD/SD-SDI Outputs
Select “Use Analog Component Inputs”. converter,
1 converting the audio and the video in and out of the Betacam SP™ deck. The deck can
Audio audio
Monitoring Audio Out
D-A
be directly connected into SDI based television systems and can be patched or routed into any other
2
Video

SDI based device.

 A-D
Workflow
D -A
Workflow
Video Converter

59 Using
Installation
as a Converter
Analog Audio In 1& 2 SDI Input Format
1 audio
Don’t Embed 4:2:2
2 A-D
Digital to Analog Conversion Mode
Analog Audio In 3 & 4 SDI In to YUV Analog Out
3 audio
Don’t Embed
4 A-D
Y (G)
AES Digital Audio Inputs
video B-Y (B)
Don’t Embed SDI input D-A
Don’t Embed audio de-embedder R-Y (R)

Don’t Embed
Don’t Embed
5&6

7& 8
Workflow example 2 – Multiple sources to a Multibridge
NTSC / PAL

HDMI
Don’t Embed 9 &10

Destination:
AES Digital Audio Outputs
Don’t Embed 11&12
Off
1& 2
SDI capture device.
Analog to Digital Conversion Mode 3&4 Off
Analog In to SDI 4:2:2 Out Scenario
Off
5& 6
– A Video Editor has three sources for video material. A Betacam SP™ (Analog), Digital
Analog In toComponent
SDI 4:2:2 Out
Use Analog Inputs
Analog In to SDI 4:4:4 RGB Out Betacam
Off
7& 8 ™
(SDI) and a television tuner receiver (composite). Using the Multibridge, the SDI capture
SDI In to SDI 4:2:2 Out Off
9 &10
device is now able to capture video and audio from these varied sources.
Y (G)
SDI In to SDI 4:4:4 RGBvideo
Out Off
11&12
B-Y (B)
HDMI In to SDI 4:2:2 Out A-D SDI output
R-Y
HDMI(R) In to SDI 4:4:4 RGB Out audio embedder Analog Audio Out 1& 2
1. Connect the Digital Betacam SDI output to the SDI Input on your Multibridge.
audio 1
SDI Channel 1&2
NTSC / PAL D-A 2

HDMI
Analog Audio Out 3 & 4
audio
D-A
3
4
2. Connect the Betacam SP component output to the component input on your Multibridge.
SDI Channel 3&4
HD/SD-SDI Outputs
Select “Analog In to SDI 4:2:2 Out”.
Audio audio
D-A
1
2
3. Connect the television tuner receiver’s composite output to composite input on your Multibridge.
Monitoring Audio Out
Video

4. Connect the SDI Input on your SDI capture device to the SDI Output on your Multibridge.
5. From the Multibridge Utility select:
Analog to Digital Conversion Mode > Choose the “From input” to route source
60 Using
Installation
as a Converter

Device names
Device Names provide a naming convention for identifying Multibridges. Multibridge Utility can connect
to many different types of Multibridge models on a single USB connection. Using the custom name, you
can set names to make sure you select the correct unit when changing settings in complex systems.
Names can be in Unicode, so you can use non Roman character sets such as Japanese, Chinese, Korean,
Thai, Arabic and many more.

Stored custom profiles

Profiles are a simple way of managing your configuration settings.
Once you have a configuration you wish to store, select:
Profiles > New Profiles > Enter a name of profile

The profile is now stored.

Once you have selected a profile, it remains in memory as the profile to be used. If the power is removed
the current settings will be restored at power up.
You can save a profile any time you would like to change settings and want to restore a known setting state
or when you want to use Multibridge for different tasks in your facility, and settings can be restored quickly.
61 Using
Installation
as a Converter

Video Levels
Although Multibridge’s 14 bit analog outputs are automatically voltage calibrated at power on, by
selecting Set video Levels you will be able to configure and adjust the output of your Multibridge
to suit your equipment. This can be useful when you need to compensate for cable length to equipment
connected to the Multibridge analog outputs.
Analog output sliders will allow individual color bias adjustment. Analog input setting are not currently
provided as they are automatically calibrated. This will change if requested by customers.
Please consult the user manuals of your decks and monitors before configuring these options.
62 Using
Installation
as a Converter

Supported Connection Formats

13 12 10 8 7 6 5 4 3 2 1
Video
‚‚ SD/HD-SDI 4:2:2, Dual link HD-SDI 4:4:4, 3 Gb/s SDI 4:4:4 input and outputs
‚‚ Analog HD or SD, YUV or RGB, Component video input and output
‚‚ S-Video input and output
25 24 23 22 21 20 19 18 17 16 15 14 ‚‚ Composite NTSC or PAL input and output
DB-25 pin outs also compatible with Yamaha™, Mackie™, ‚‚ HDMI input and output
Sony™ and Apogee™ connectors.
HD Format support: SDI Compliance:
Audio Ch. Hot Pins (+) Cold Pins (–) Ground Pins
1&2 IN 1 14 10
‚‚ 2K 2048 x 1556 at 23.98 and 24fps ‚‚ SMPTE 292M, SMPTE 372M, SMPTE 259M,
‚‚ 1080 lines at 23.98PsF, 24PsF, 50i, 59.94i SMPTE 296M and ITU-R BT.656
3&4 IN 2 15 12
5&6 IN 3 16 13
and 60i Color Space support:
7&8 IN 4 17 22
‚‚ 720 lines at 50p, 59.94p, 60p and VariCam ‚‚ 4:2:2 YUV and 4:4:4 RGB
1&2 OUT 5 18 23 SD Format support:
3&4 OUT 6 19 24 ‚‚ 565/60(NTSC) and 625/50(PAL)
5&6 OUT 7 20 25
7&8 OUT 8 21 Audio
Multibridge Eclipse Multibridge Pro
Multibridge Pro AES audio connector pin connections. ‚‚ 4 XLR balanced analog inputs and outputs ‚‚ 2 XLR balanced analog inputs and outputs
‚‚ 2 Analog RCA outputs for monitoring ‚‚ 2 Analog RCA outputs for monitoring
‚‚ 12 AES/EBU digital audio inputs and ‚‚ 8 AES/EBU digital audio inputs and outputs
5 4 3 2 1 outputs on balanced XLR connectors. All on a multi-pin DB-25 connector. All inputs
inputs have sample rate converters. have sample rate converters. The DB-25 pin
out is compatible with Yamaha™, Mackie™,
Sony™ and Apogee™ connectors.
Control
9 8 7 6 RS-422 serial control port, compatible with Sony™ deck control pin connections and protocol.
Receive Receive Transmit Transmit Ground Multibridge features an industry standard Sony™ compatible deck control port, that has the correct pin
(–) (+) (–) (+) Pins
connections for a direct connection to any deck. If you would like to use custom cables (e.g. to increase
2 7 8 3 1, 4, 6, 9
length), use the wiring diagram. You can also use pre made 9 pin cables as long as each end of the cable are
wired “pin for pin” where the same pin number on each end of the cable are connected together.
Remote pin connections.
63 Using
Installation
as a Converter

Troubleshooting when used as a Converter

There are four steps to getting help.
1. Check out the Blackmagic Design website www.blackmagic-design.com/support for the latest
support information. We have a huge number of technical notes covering all the common
questions we are asked.
2. Call your reseller. Your reseller will have the latest technical updates from Blackmagic Design and
should be able to give you immediate assistance. We also recommend you check out the support
options your dealer offers as they can arrange various support plans based on your workflow
requirements. Your reseller will also understand your disk array configuration, and as disk array
problems account for around 90% of support questions with NLE systems, your reseller or disk
array vendor will be able to provide expert help.
3. The next option is to email us with your questions using the web form at
www.blackmagic-design.com/support/contact
4. Phone a Blackmagic Design support office. Please check our web site for current support phone
numbers in your area. www.blackmagic-design.com/company/.
Note: Please provide us with as much information as possible regarding your technical problem and
system specifications so that we may try to reproduce your problem quickly. Also please let us know how to
reproduce any problem you’re having, so we can try it on our test systems before replying to your email.
64

Warranty
65 Warranty

3 Year Warranty
Blackmagic Design warrants that this product will be free from defects in materials and workmanship for
a period of 36 months from the date of purchase excluding user-servicable cooling fans and fiber optic
modules which will be free from defects in materials and workmanship for a period of 12 months from
the date of purchase. If a product proves to be defective during this warranty period, Blackmagic Design,
at its option, either will repair the defective product without charge for parts and labor, or will provide a
replacement in exchange for the defective product.
In order to obtain service under this warranty, you the Customer, must notify Blackmagic Design of the
defect before the expiration of the warranty period and make suitable arrangements for the performance
of service. The Customer shall be responsible for packaging and shipping the defective product to a
designated service center nominated by Blackmagic Design, with shipping charges pre paid. Customer
shall be responsible for paying all shipping changes, insurance, duties, taxes, and any other charges for
products returned to us for any reason.
This warranty shall not apply to any defect, failure or damage caused by improper use or improper or
inadequate maintenance and care. Blackmagic Design shall not be obligated to furnish service under
this warranty: a) to repair damage resulting from attempts by personal other than Blackmagic Design
representatives to install, repair or service the product, b) to repair damage resulting from improper
use or connection to incompatible equipment, c) to repair any damage or malfunction caused by the
use of non Blackmagic Design parts or supplies, or d) to service a product that has been modified or
integrated with other products when the effect of such a modification or integration increases the time or
difficulty of servicing the product. THIS WARRANTY IS GIVEN BY BLACKMAGIC DESIGN IN LIEU OF ANY
OTHER WARRANTIES, EXPRESS OR IMPLIED. BLACKMAGIC DESIGN AND ITS VENDORS DISCLAIM
ANY IMPLIED WARRANTIES OF MERCHANTABILITY OR FITNESS FOR A PARTICULAR PURPOSE.
BLACKMAGIC DESIGN’S RESPONSIBILITY TO REPAIR OR REPLACE DEFECTIVE PRODUCTS IS THE
WHOLE AND EXCLUSIVE REMEDY PROVIDED TO THE CUSTOMER FOR ANY INDIRECT, SPECIAL,
INCIDENTAL OR CONSEQUENTIAL DAMAGES IRRESPECTIVE OF WHETHER BLACKMAGIC DESIGN
OR THE VENDOR HAS ADVANCE NOTICE OF THE POSSIBILITY OF SUCH DAMAGES. BLACKMAGIC
DESIGN IS NOT LIABLE FOR ANY ILLEGAL USE OF EQUIPMENT BY CUSTOMER. BLACKMAGIC IS
NOT LIABLE FOR ANY DAMAGES RESULTING FROM USE OF THIS PRODUCT. USER OPERATES THIS
PRODUCT AT OWN RISK.
© Copyright 2010 Blackmagic Design. All rights reserved. ‘Blackmagic Design’, ‘DeckLink’, ‘HDLink’, ‘Workgroup Videohub’, ‘ Videohub’,
‘DeckLink’, ‘Intensity’ and ‘Leading the creative video revolution’ are registered trademarks in the US and other countries. All other company and
product names may be trade marks of their respective companies with which they are associated.