The Evertz 5601ACO2 Automatic Changeover Unit is a crucial component for maintaining the integrity and reliability of synchronizing signal distribution systems. It acts as an intelligent switch, automatically selecting between two redundant master clock/SPG (Sync Pulse Generator) units (Master A and Master B) to ensure continuous, uninterrupted signal output. This device is designed to prevent system reference disturbances and provide robust fault handling in broadcast and professional video environments.
Function Description:
The 5601ACO2's primary function is to monitor critical synchronizing signals from two independent 5601MSC Master Clock/SPG units and automatically switch to the backup unit if the active master experiences a fault. This automatic changeover mechanism is crucial for maintaining stable timing and synchronization across a facility. The unit employs latching relays, ensuring that its state is maintained even in the event of a power loss.
The changeover decision-making process is sophisticated, relying on signal presence detectors for various input types. These detectors assess the validity of signals from both Master A and Master B. The unit can be configured to include or exclude specific signals from the "voting pool" that determines the changeover decision, allowing for tailored fault detection based on the system's specific needs.
The 5601ACO2 supports multiple operating modes:
- Automatic Mode: The unit autonomously selects between Master A and Master B based on which source has the most "good" signals and whether the valid signals on the currently selected master are also valid on the backup.
- Manual GPI Changeover Mode: Allows external control of the changeover via GPI inputs on the rear panel. This mode offers two sub-modes: single GPI input for simple A/B switching and dual GPI input for more granular control.
- Manual Front Panel Control Mode: Enables manual selection of Master A or Master B directly from the front panel.
To prevent oscillating switching behavior in the event of an output short, the 5601ACO2 incorporates "Change Limiting" features. This allows the user to restrict the number of automatic changeovers within a specified timeframe, providing time to diagnose and rectify problems. When a change limiting condition is detected, further changeovers are suspended, and the Auto LED flashes to indicate a fault.
The unit also provides comprehensive status monitoring through its front panel LEDs and the VistaLINK®-C Configuration Utility. These indicators display the operating mode, current output (Master A or B), GPI input mode, changeover rate, and changeover lockout status.
Important Technical Specifications:
- Power: Auto ranging 100 - 240 Volts AC, 50/60 Hz, 80 VA. Features dual redundant supplies.
- Fuse Rating: 250 V, 1 amp, time delay.
- Dimensions: 19" W x 3.5" H x 11.5" D (483mm W x 90mm H x 292mm D).
- Weight: 16 lbs. (7.0Kg).
- Safety & EMI/RFI: ETL Listed, complies with EU safety directives, FCC Part 15 Class A regulations, and EU EMC directive.
- Network Type: Fast Ethernet 100 Base-TX IEEE 802.3u standard for 100 Mbps baseband CSMA/CD local area network, and Ethernet 10 Base-T IEEE 802.3 standard for 10 Mbps baseband CSMA/CD local area network.
- Connectors: RJ-45 for Ethernet, various BNC connectors for coaxial signals (Sync, SDI/HD/3G SDI, 10 MHz, Word Clock, DARS, AES), 16-pin terminal strips for balanced AES, DARS, Analog Audio, and GPI/GPO, and male XLR connectors for LTC outputs.
- Signal Levels for Detection:
- Video: Level above 70 IRE
- Sync: H timing detect
- SDI/HDSDI: Valid TRS ID
- 10MHz: Level above 1.0Vp-p
- Word Clock: Level above 0.5Vp-p, Sync word valid
- DARS: Level above 0.3Vp-p, Sync word valid
- LTC: Level above 0.3Vp-p, Sync word valid
- GPI: Input high
- Changeover Rate: Configurable via DIP switch 2 (250mS or 100mS).
- Change Limiting: Configurable via DIP switches 7 and 8 (Unlimited, 1 change only, 2 changes only).
- Bank Priority: Configurable via DIP switches 3 and 4 (Equal priority, Bank A higher, Bank B higher).
- Serial Port: COM serial port (RS-232) for configuration and status, with baud rate 57600, 8 data bits, no parity, 2 stop bits, and no flow control.
Usage Features:
- Front Panel Controls: Three recessed rocker switches for selecting the operating mode (Auto, Manual GPI, Manual Front Panel) and 70 LED status indicators provide at-a-glance operational status.
- Automatic Changeover: Automatically switches to a backup master clock/SPG if the active unit fails, ensuring system continuity.
- Manual Control: Allows operators to manually select the active master or control changeover via GPI inputs for specific operational needs.
- Configurable Voting Logic: Users can define which input signals are "mission critical" and participate in the changeover decision, allowing for highly customized fault detection.
- Change Limiting: Prevents rapid, oscillating changeovers in the event of an output short or other transient issues, providing stability and time for diagnosis.
- Bank Priority: Allows users to assign a higher priority to one master unit over the other, influencing the changeover decision when both masters have an equal number of valid signals.
- Ethernet Connectivity (VistaLINK®-C): Provides remote monitoring, configuration, and alarm management through Evertz's VistaLINK®-C Configuration Utility, supporting SNMP for network integration.
- Firmware Upgrade: Supports firmware upgrades via a serial connection using HyperTerminal or similar programs, ensuring the unit can be updated with the latest features and bug fixes.
- Passive Signal Paths: Signal paths through the ACO are completely passive, utilizing mechanical latching relays, which maintain connections even without power, enhancing reliability.
Maintenance Features:
- Diagnostic LEDs: Front panel LEDs provide immediate visual feedback on the operational status of the unit, including operating mode, active output, and input signal validity.
- VistaLINK® Monitoring: The General Status tab in VistaLINK®-C provides a detailed overview of the unit's parameters, including operating mode, GPI input mode, changeover rate, changeover lockout status, current output, bank preference, and firmware version.
- Fault Trap Controls: VistaLINK® allows users to enable or disable SNMP traps for various fault conditions (Analog TG loss, Analog Sync loss, 3G HD SDI TG loss, AES DARS loss, LTC loss, MSC GPO faults, 10 MHz loss, Word Clock loss, power supply faults, fan faults, door open status). This enables proactive alarm management and rapid identification of issues.
- Serial Port Status: The COM serial port provides boot-up status information and allows access to a main menu for network configuration, SNMP configuration, voting control, and status display, aiding in troubleshooting and setup.
- Removable Terminal Strips: The terminal strips for balanced AES, DARS, Analog Audio, and GPI/GPO connections are removable, simplifying wiring and maintenance.
- Redundant Power Supplies: The unit is equipped with dual redundant power supplies, enhancing reliability and ensuring continuous operation even if one power supply fails.
- Fan Monitoring: The unit monitors fan status, and faults can be trapped via SNMP, allowing for early detection of cooling issues.
- Temperature Monitoring: The unit monitors CPU, FPGA, and power supply temperatures, providing critical data for system health assessment.
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