Glossary - Slomo.tv

The Academy has a wide range of applications, including training of directors, VARs, replay operators and other TV specialists. The Academy solution can be implemented as a stand-alone device or as an option for any of the SLOMO.TV servers.

AES standards are developed by the Audio Engineering Society (AES) and cover various aspects of audio technology, equipment, and practices.

Some notable AES standards include:

• AES3 (AES/EBU): Specifies the professional digital audio format with a signal that can carry two channels of digital audio over several transmission media.
• AES10 (MADI – Multichannel Audio Digital Interface): Specifies a protocol for transporting multiple channels of digital audio over a single cable.
• AES67: Specifies high-performance audio-over-IP (AoIP) and audio over Ethernet (AoE) interoperability.
• AES70 (Open Control Architecture): Specifies a communications protocol architecture for media networks designed to provide a common framework for device control and monitoring.
• AES-X075 (X-format): Describes a file format for the interchange of audio programs and associated data.

AES organizes conferences, conventions, and publishes a variety of resources, including journals and standards, to advance the field of audio engineering. The society covers a wide range of topics, including sound recording, reproduction, and transmission, as well as acoustics and multimedia.

Key features of CEC include:

• Single Remote Control: Users can control multiple devices, such as TVs, Blu-ray players, audio systems, and more, using a single remote control.
• Power Control: CEC allows devices to turn on and off together. For example, turning on a Blu-ray player may also power on the TV and switch it to the correct input.
• Volume Control: Users can adjust the volume of compatible devices using a single remote control.

Control ZR provides direct access to 24 cameras in replay mode. The controller is equipped with a highly reliable and accurate T-bar and Jog/Shuttle. The Shuttle wheel has 64 steps left and right to control search and slow motion speeds. Control ZR connects via RS-232/422, USB and Ethernet. The remote control is powered via PoE or USB.

Using the control panel significantly speeds up and simplifies the operator's work.

• 22 large tactile RGB broadcast push-buttons with functional contextual backlighting;
• 7" color TFT touchscreen interface for displaying game information and working with non-operational menus;
• Multiple interfaces for connecting to the infrastructure;
• Built-in rechargeable Li-ion battery for up to 6.5 hours of continuous operation.

Control-MC supports a variety of sports, including ice hockey, basketball, water polo and handball.

Control-MC offers the innovative wireless Smart Whistle function: the time on the scoreboard controller starts and stops by the referee's whistle. For TV broadcasters who produce on-air graphics from a broadcasting center there is a SCDO option.

Control-VR has several modes of operation: direct access to cameras; work with presets; quad or 2-camera views.

It can be powered by PoE and connected via USB, Ethernet, RS232/422 (using the standard SLOMO.TV technology).

Other features:

• User-friendly, intuitive and fast interface.
• 35 large reliable RGB-backlit buttons with color prompts.
• Keyword assignment, tag search and timecode navigation, creating presets and split-screens for video referees.
• Reliable and responsive Jog/Shuttle.
• Shuttle wheel controls search and slow motion playback speeds.
• Active control transfer when using multiple replay operator workplaces.
• Versatile connectivity – Ethernet, USB, RS-422/232.

The name “D-sub” comes from the D-shaped metal shield that surrounds the connector. These connectors have multiple pins arranged in two or more rows. D-sub connectors are known for their durability and reliability, making them suitable for a variety of applications. The most common types of D-sub connectors include:

• DB-9 (9-pin D-sub): Often used for serial communication, such as RS-232 connections.
• DB-15 (15-pin D-sub): Commonly found in VGA (Video Graphics Array) connections for computer monitors.
• HD15 (High-Density 15-pin D-sub): Similar to DB-15 but with a higher pin density. Used for VGA or GPIO connections.
• DB-25 (25-pin D-sub): Used for various applications, including parallel printer ports and some serial connections.

Key Features of DANTE:

• Ethernet-Based: DANTE operates over standard Ethernet networks, making it compatible with existing IT infrastructures. This widespread compatibility allows for easy integration into various environments.
• Low Latency: DANTE provides low-latency audio transmission, making it suitable for applications where real-time audio synchronization is crucial, such as live performances and broadcasting.
• Scalability: DANTE supports the creation of complex and scalable audio networks. Users can connect multiple devices, including mixers, amplifiers, microphones, and speakers, to the same network and route audio as needed.
• Device Compatibility: Many audio equipment manufacturers have adopted DANTE, resulting in a wide range of DANTE-enabled devices. This ensures compatibility and interoperability within the audio ecosystem.
• Software-Based Control: DANTE offers software tools for configuring and managing audio devices on the network. This simplifies the setup and monitoring of audio systems.
• Redundancy: DANTE supports network redundancy, providing increased reliability. In mission-critical audio applications, redundant network paths can be established to ensure continuity.
• Wide Industry Adoption: DANTE has gained widespread adoption in the professional audio industry. It is used in various applications, including live sound reinforcement, recording studios, broadcast facilities, and more.

Learn more about DMR™ technology and its application

Digital Visual Interface (DVI) is a video display interface used to connect a computer or other devices to a display, such as a monitor or projector. It provides a high-quality, digital connection for transmitting video signals. DVI has become less common in recent years as newer interfaces such as HDMI (High-Definition Multimedia Interface) and DisplayPort have gained popularity. DVI does not carry audio, so a separate audio connection may be required if audio is part of the multimedia content.

There are several types of DVI connectors:

• DVI-I (Integrated): This connector supports both digital and analog signals, making it versatile for different display devices.
• DVI-D (Digital): This connector supports only digital signals, providing a purely digital connection between the source and the display.
• DVI-A (Analog): This connector only supports analog signals and is less common in modern devices.

In video production, sound embedding refers to the embedding of audio signals into an SDI video signal. Depending on the type of audio signal (AES/EBU, MADI or DANTE), different specialized devices are used to embed the sound.

For more information about embedding sound, see the article “Audio in SLOMO.TV servers – Solutions for analog signals, AES/EBU, MADI and DANTE”.

Gesture interface allows the user to interact with a device using certain movements of the hands, fingers, face, or other parts of the body. This type of interface is based on detecting and interpreting movements of the human body or parts of the body.

Gesture interfaces are widely used in modern devices such as smartphones, tablets, game consoles and smart TVs to provide a more natural and convenient way to interact with technology.

Examples of gesture interfaces include:

• Gesture recognition on touchscreens, such as zooming or rotating with two fingers;
• Using cameras or motion sensors to track the user's body movements, for example in gesture control for games or virtual reality;
• Recognizing certain hand gestures to perform commands, such as waving your hand to control the media player.

GPIO, which stands for General Purpose Input/Output, is a type of interface commonly found on microcontrollers, single-board computers, and other hardware platforms. It allows these devices to interact with external hardware components such as sensors, LEDs, buttons, and other electronic peripherals.

Here are some key points about GPIO:

• Digital Pins: GPIO pins can be configured as either inputs or outputs for digital signals (high/low, on/off). When configured as inputs, they can read the state of external devices (e.g., a button press), and when configured as outputs, they can control the state of external devices (e.g., turning on an LED).
• Flexibility: The “general-purpose” aspect of GPIO means that these pins can be used for a wide range of functions, depending on how they are configured by the software running on the device.
• Interfacing with Hardware: GPIO pins are used to interface with a variety of hardware components, including sensors, motors, displays, and communication modules. For example, you might use GPIO pins to read data from a temperature sensor or control the direction of a motor.
• Programming: To work with GPIO pins, developers typically write code in programming languages like Python, C/C++, or others, depending on the platform. The code configures the pins, reads input states, and sets output states as needed.
• Voltage Levels: GPIO pins can operate at different voltage levels, depending on the device or platform. Common voltage levels include 3.3V and 5V.
• Raspberry Pi and Arduino: GPIO pins are prominently used in platforms like the Raspberry Pi and Arduino, where they play a central role in creating projects and prototypes.

Here are key features and aspects of HDMI™:

• High Definition: HDMI supports high-definition video and audio signals, making it suitable for connecting devices such as HDTVs, Blu-ray players, gaming consoles, and audio/video receivers. It is capable of carrying both standard and high-definition resolutions, including 720p, 1080i, and 1080p.
• Audio and Video in a Single Cable: Simplifies cable management and reduces clutter in home entertainment setups.
• Versions and Specifications: Features such as higher resolutions, increased color depth, and support for advanced audio formats have been introduced in newer versions.
• Connectors: HDMI cables use a distinctive, compact connector that carries both digital video and audio signals. HDMI connectors come in various sizes, with the standard Type A being the most common. Mini HDMI and Micro HDMI connectors are smaller versions used in certain devices like cameras and smartphones.
• Content Protection: HDMI includes High-bandwidth Digital Content Protection (HDCP) to prevent unauthorized copying of protected content.
• Backward Compatibility: HDMI™ is designed to be backwards compatible, allowing newer devices to work with older HDMI-equipped devices.
• Applications: HDMI™ is used in a wide range of consumer electronics (TVs, monitors, projectors, audio/video receivers, DVD and Blu-ray players, gaming consoles, and digital cameras) and various professional audio/video applications.

Key features of Hi-Motion technology include:

• High Frame Rate Capture: High frame rate enables smooth slow-motion playback with no loss of image quality.
• Slow-Motion Analysis: The primary purpose of Hi-Motion technology is to enable slow-motion analysis of fast and dynamic events, such as sports activities.
• Enhanced Detail: High frame rates capture results in enhanced detail and clarity during slow-motion playback.
• Sports Broadcasting: Hi-Motion technology enhances the viewer's experience by providing detailed and slowed-down replays in sports like football (soccer), basketball, tennis, and other fast-paced games.
• Specialized Cameras: Cameras equipped with Hi-Motion technology incorporate advanced image sensors and processing capabilities to handle the demands of high frame rate capture.
• Analytical Tools: Analytical tools and software enable broadcasters and analysts to break down and dissect key moments in a game or event.

Recent developments in technology have enabled goal cameras to feature wireless data and control transmission, long battery life, and increased resistance to external shocks and temperature fluctuations. The SLOMO.TV mini-II-GoalNetCam in-goal cameras have all these functions.

In-goal camera operation at a hockey match:

Here are some key features of linear editing:

• Sequence of scenes: Scenes are edited in the order in which they were shot, so changing the order of the scenes requires reshooting the entire film.
• Limited flexibility: With linear editing, the ability to change the structure and chronology of a movie is constrained, limiting creative freedom.
• Time-consuming: Changing or correcting any part of the movie requires the editor to redo and reassemble all the previous scenes, which takes a lot of time.
• Limited technical capabilities: Linear editing often limits the use of complex technical effects, animation and other innovative techniques.
• Fixed structure: The fixed structure of the movie makes it difficult to correct mistakes or change the creative vision after the first cut.

Key features of Linear Timecode include:

• Time Reference: LTC provides a continuous and linear representation of time, allowing precise synchronization between different audio and video devices. It sequentially encodes hours, minutes, seconds, and frames.
• Frame Accuracy: LTC is capable of addressing individual frames, providing a high level of timekeeping accuracy.
• SMPTE Standards: LTC conforms to the standards of the Society of Motion Picture and Television Engineers (SMPTE). The most common LTC format is based on SMPTE timecode standards, such as SMPTE ST 12-1, which defines the structure of timecode information.
• Recording on Audio Tracks: LTC is often recorded on one of the audio tracks of a video so that timecode information can be embedded in the recorded media.
• Syncing Multiple Devices: LTC ensures that the various elements of a production are accurately timed by synchronizing the various devices involved.
• Compatibility: Linear Timecode is widely supported in professional audio and video equipment, enabling interoperability between different devices from different manufacturers.
• Drop-Frame and Non-Drop-Frame: Drop-frame timecode adjusts for the discrepancy between the nominal frame rate and the actual time, helping to keep time accurate over long periods of time.
• Editing and Post-Production: LTC is critical for accurately aligning audio and video tracks. Editors use LTC information to synchronize multiple sources and ensure precise timing in the final production.

SLOMO.TV has developed its own scoreboard controller Control-MC, suitable for a variety of different sports.

Learn more about mini-II-GoalNetCam

Distinctive features of mini-II-vR-Cam cameras:

• Support for 3G and HD modes;
• Cloud synchronization – CloudyGenLock®;
• Controlled zoom lens;
• Reliable and impact resistant design;
• Analog audio input with sound volume display;
• Power supply and control via Ethernet – PoE;
• Compliance with Video Goal technical regulations;
• Absolute synchronicity and “in-phase” with each other (when using cloud sync mode).

Here are some basic advantages:

• Flexibility and creative freedom: Directors and editors are free to change the order of scenes, try different options, experiment with the chronology of events.
• Easy error correction: When errors or unsuccessful scenes are detected during non-linear editing, they can be easily corrected without affecting the rest of the film's structure.
• Work efficiency: Modern non-linear editing software offers a wide range of tools and effects to make the workflow more efficient and convenient.
• Adding effects and animation: Non-linear editing makes it easy to add special effects, animation, color correction and other technical enhancements without having to re-edit the entire video.
• Collaboration and sharing: The ability to work on a project remotely and share files digitally simplifies teamwork at various stages of film creation.
• Storage and management: The digital format enables efficient storage and management of large volumes of video, simplifying access to different versions and elements of the project and reducing production time.

NTSC's key features:

• Color Encoding: NTSC combines luminance (brightness) and chrominance (color) information to enable the transmission of color television.
• Frame Rate: NTSC has a frame rate of approximately 29.97 frames per second (fps), with each frame consisting of two interlaced fields.
• Interlaced Format: Interlacing method was chosen to reduce flicker on early CRT (cathode-ray tube) displays.
• Resolution: NTSC has a resolution of 525 horizontal lines per frame, with an aspect ratio of 4:3.
• Audio Transmission: The audio is frequency modulated (FM) and is transmitted on a separate carrier frequency.
• Color Subcarrier Frequency: The color subcarrier frequency is 3.579545 MHz.
• Obsolete Standard: While NTSC was widely used for analog television broadcasting for several decades, the transition to digital television standards has made it obsolete in many regions.
• Legacy Equipment: Some older televisions and video equipment may still support NTSC signals, but modern displays and broadcast systems have largely moved to digital standards.

Here are the key features typically found in TV production trucks:

• Control Room: The truck houses a control room where technicians and producers operate the equipment using video and audio control panels, monitors, and communication systems.
• Cameras and Lenses: Production trucks are equipped with high-quality cameras and lenses to capture live footage, often mounted on the outside of the truck to provide multiple angles.
• Video Switcher: A video switcher allows operators to switch between different camera feeds, graphics, and pre-recorded content during a live broadcast.
• Audio Mixer: An audio mixer is used to control and balance audio from various sources, including microphones, ambient sounds, and prerecorded audio.
• Graphics & Character Generator: Production trucks are equipped to generate on-screen graphics, overlays, and text to provide viewers with relevant details about the broadcast.
• Satellite Uplink/Downlink: To broadcast live, production trucks are often equipped with satellite communications systems.
• Lighting Equipment: Adequate lighting is essential for capturing clear and well-lit images.
• Power Systems: Integrated power systems (generators and emergency power supplies) support all on-board electronic equipment.
• Editing Facilities: Some advanced production trucks may have basic editing capabilities for making on-the-fly edits or preparing content for later use.
• Cabling and Connectivity: Extensive cabling is required to connect all the equipment within the production truck. This includes video, audio, and power cables.

PAL's key features:

• Color Encoding: PAL uses a phase-alternating technique to encode color information and provide high-quality color reproduction.
• Frame Rate: PAL operates at a frame rate of 25 frames per second (fps) consisting of two interlaced fields.
• Interlaced Format: Interlacing helps reduce flicker on CRT displays.
• Resolution: PAL has a resolution of 625 horizontal lines per frame with a 4:3 aspect ratio.
• Color Subcarrier Frequency: The color subcarrier frequency is 4.43361875 MHz.
• Audio Transmission: The audio is frequency modulated (FM) and is transmitted on a separate carrier frequency.
• Greater Color Accuracy: PAL's phase-alternating technology helps reduce color errors and artifacts in the transmitted image.
• Widespread Adoption: PAL has been widely adopted in Europe and several other regions, making it one of the most widely used analog television standards in the world.
• Transition to Digital: With the transition to digital television standards in many parts of the world, PAL has become largely obsolete.

Power over Ethernet (PoE) is a technology that enables the simultaneous transmission of electrical power and data over Ethernet network cables, offering a practical and efficient solution for various applications.

Here are the key points about PoE:

• Single Cable for Power and Data: PoE allows both data and power to be delivered over a single Ethernet cable, which is especially useful for networked devices.
• IEEE Standards: PoE is based on IEEE (Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers) standards - the most common are IEEE 802.3af (PoE) and IEEE 802.3at (PoE+).
• Power Sourcing Equipment (PSE): Power Sourcing Equipment (PSE) supplies power to Powered Devices (PD) over the Ethernet connection.
• Powered Devices (PD): Powered Devices (PD) are devices that receive power over Ethernet cables.
• Voltage and Power Levels: Different PoE standards support different voltage levels and power capacities.
• Installation Flexibility: PoE allows for flexible device placement without the constraints of power availability.
• Network Efficiency: PoE consolidates power and data infrastructure, reduces cable clutter, simplifies cable management, and lowers installation costs.
• PoE Variants: PoE+ (802.3at) and PoE++ (802.3bt) support higher power requirements, making them suitable for high-performance and industrial devices.

Here are key features and aspects of ProRes:

• Professional Video Codec: ProRes offers a balance between high image quality and manageable file sizes.
• Intra-frame Compression: Each video frame is compressed independently for efficient editing.
• Variants of ProRes:
  • ProRes 422: Offers high-quality HD video at a moderate data rate.
  • ProRes 422 HQ: Provides higher data rates for better image quality.
  • ProRes 422 LT: Lower data rates suitable for smaller file sizes.
  • ProRes 4444: Supports high-quality with an alpha channel (transparency).
  • ProRes XQ: The highest quality with the highest data rates.
• Editing Efficiency: ProRes enables efficient performance in nonlinear editing (NLE) systems – smooth playback and real-time editing even with high-resolution, high-bitrate footage.
• Color Accuracy: ProRes supports 10-bit and 12-bit color depths.
• Wide Industry Adoption: ProRes is widely used in the film, television, and video production industries and is supported by a variety of video editing software, hardware, and professional video equipment.
• Cross-Platform Compatibility: Because ProRes can be used on both MacOS and Windows-based systems, it is popular in mixed-platform post-production environments.
• Bitrates and File Sizes: Users can select different bit rates depending on the desired balance between image quality and file size.

Key features of SDI include:

• Uncompressed Video: SDI transmits video signals without compression, maintaining high image quality.
• Data Rates: SDI can support different data rates, including standard definition (SD-SDI), high definition (HD-SDI), and ultra-high definition (UHD-SDI).
• Coaxial Cable: SDI is typically transmitted over coaxial cable because of its durability and ability to carry high-frequency signals over long distances.
• BNC Connectors: BNC (Bayonet Neill-Concelman) connectors provide a secure and reliable connection between devices using SDI.
• Single Cable for Multiple Signals: SDI can carry video, audio, and metadata signals simultaneously over a single cable, simplifying the overall setup.
• Broadcast and Professional Applications: SDI is widely used in broadcasting, live production, post-production, and other professional video environments.
• Long Cable Runs: SDI can support long cable runs without significant signal degradation, making it suitable for large production setups.

Slow motion is often used in sports broadcasts, movies, and video clips to create an aesthetic effect or make the viewer analyze an event.

Example: Replays Mix Fight Combat Jeff Monson

It serves as a precise time reference, allowing for synchronization and accurate editing during post-production. The time code includes hours, minutes, seconds, and frames, providing a consistent and universal means of tracking time within audiovisual materials.

Timelapse is also actively used in the creation of cinematic effects.

The systems can also be used to show footage of the game in a television broadcast. Depending on the type of sport and the level of competition, videoReferee^® systems have between 4 and 32 cameras.

They are used for the following sports:

• Ice hockey
• Basketball
• Football
• Handball
• Water polo
• Short Track
• Canoe slalom
• Volleyball
• Fencing
• Wrestling
• Athletics