Video-signal generator

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A video signal generator is a type of signal generator which outputs predetermined video and/or television oscillation waveforms, and other signals used in the synchronization of television devices and to stimulate faults in, or aid in parametric measurements of, television and video systems. There are several different types of video signal generators in widespread use. Regardless of the specific type, the output of a video generator will generally contain synchronization signals appropriate for television, including horizontal and vertical sync pulses (in analog) or sync words (in digital). Generators of composite video signals (such as NTSC and PAL) will also include a colorburst signal as part of the output.

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Types of video signal generators

Video signal generators are primarily classed according to their function. In addition, they may be classified according to the video formats and interface standard they support—one generator may generate composite analog signals (typically NTSC, PAL, or both), another may generate CCIR 601, and a third may generate MPEG streams over an ASI.

Many manufacturers sell signal generation platforms, which can be populated with multiple modules providing the above capabilities (and supporting different formats). Many such platforms also include audio generation capability (as television includes audio as well as video), supporting either embedded audio or standalone audio formats.

Test signal generators

A test signal generator generates test patterns, and other useful test signals, for troubleshooting and analyzing television systems. These devices are generally intended for off-line use (test patterns are seldom broadcast, unless a station is not operating properly or is off the air at the time), as they output complete television signals. Examples of signals output by such a device include:

Some generators achieved a relative popularity, due to channels broadcasting test cards for long periods where no programming was scheduled. Patterns associated with Philips [1] (PM 5540, PM 5552, PM 5544, PM 5644), Grundig VG 1001 [2] (FuBk) [3] [4] SMPTE (Color Bars), or Snell & Wilcox (Zone Plate) [5] [6] generators are generally well known.

A few specialized signals are used in digital environments:

In addition, sophisticated signal generators may allow modification of the video timing, adjustment of the gains of the various components (including out of range), the introduction of jitter or bit errors (into digital signals), the introduction of motion, or other effects.

VITS inserters

A vertical interval test signal inserter, or VITS inserter inserts test patterns into the vertical interval of a television signal. Unlike test signal generators; a VITS inserter is used to insert the test signal into live programming, so that inline measurements of a transmission chain can be made while the chain is operational. (As the vertical interval is typically not visible on end-user televisions, this can be done without producing any artifacts noticeable to viewers). Since VITS signals can often be transmitted, it is also possible for a television station to receive its own on-air feed, and use the VITS to detect and troubleshoot problems in on-air transmission.

Sync pulse generator

A sync pulse generator (SPG) is a special type of generator which produces synchronization signals, with a high level of stability and accuracy. These devices are used to provide a master timing source for a video facility. The output of an SPG will typically be in one of several forms, depending on the needs of the facility:

Logo inserters

Logo inserters are devices used to insert a television station's logo, or other fixed graphics, into a live television signal. Often called a "Bug Generator."

See also

Related Research Articles

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<span class="mw-page-title-main">NTSC</span> Analog television system

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<span class="mw-page-title-main">Vertical interval timecode</span> Type of timecode in a video signal

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<span class="mw-page-title-main">Colorburst</span> Synchronisation signal in colour video

Colorburst is an analog video, composite video signal generated by a video-signal generator used to keep the chrominance subcarrier synchronized in a color television signal. By synchronizing an oscillator with the colorburst at the back porch (beginning) of each scan line, a television receiver is able to restore the suppressed carrier of the chrominance (color) signals, and in turn decode the color information. The most common use of colorburst is to genlock equipment together as a common reference with a vision mixer in a television studio using a multi-camera setup.

<span class="mw-page-title-main">Composite video</span> Analog video signal format

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<span class="mw-page-title-main">Test card</span> Test signal in television broadcasting

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<span class="mw-page-title-main">SMPTE color bars</span> Widely used television test pattern

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<span class="mw-page-title-main">Vectorscope</span>

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<span class="mw-page-title-main">Video decoder</span>

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The following outline is provided as an overview of and topical guide to television broadcasting:

In television broadcasting, VIT signals are a group of test signals inserted in the composite video signal. These signals are used to weight the transmission characteristics of the system between the test generator and the output of the demodulator, where the system includes the microwave links, or TVROs as well as the TV transmitters and the transposers. There are both ATSC and EBU standards for VIT.

<span class="mw-page-title-main">History of the oscilloscope</span>


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This glossary defines terms that are used in the document "Defining Video Quality Requirements: A Guide for Public Safety", developed by the Video Quality in Public Safety (VQIPS) Working Group. It contains terminology and explanations of concepts relevant to the video industry. The purpose of the glossary is to inform the reader of commonly used vocabulary terms in the video domain. This glossary was compiled from various industry sources.

References

  1. Hendil, F (1970). Sudar, T (ed.). "Combined colour/monochrome pattern generator PM 5544" (PDF). Electronic Measuring and Microwave Notes. Eindhoven, The Netherlands: Philips. 1970 (2): 1–6. ISSN   0374-4043 . Retrieved 4 March 2021.
  2. "Videogenerator VG 1001 Equipment Grundig Radio-Vertrieb, RVF". www.radiomuseum.org.
  3. "Non-UK Television Test Cards, Tuning Signals, Clocks and Idents". January 12, 2016. Archived from the original on 2016-01-12.
  4. "Signals produced by CCVS + Component Generator SAF and CCVS Generator SFF Standard BG/PAL and N/PAL" (PDF). Retrieved 2023-12-28.
  5. "Snell & Wilcox SUPERVISOR - Multi-Standard Display Processor" (PDF). Retrieved 2023-12-28.
  6. "Video Essentials: Snell & Wilcox Zone Plate". www.cinedrome.ch.