DVI exstenders

[Mr_P]

Some interesting views.
I agree with both opinions. Mainly because I've used both scenarios. DVI fibre distribution and the image-pro to SDI/HDSDI

Its a good discussion point - but the is NO definitive answer.
WHY?
Because it depends upon the requirements of the production.

I mulled over the question of what to include in a new catalyst rack for quite a time - one answer I arrived at was just to install 2 x DVI DA's - then Ive you the choice of adding either image-Pro or DVI-fibre distribution in a small rack on top, depending upon the production requirements.

Every job I do, the distribution requirements change.

One thing to note though, that I didn't see mentioned above, is processing delay. Image-Pros (and other scan converters) will inherently add a few frames delay to the signal. If you then add in the OB truck and LED screen processor - you wont want to be putting a live closeup of your singer on the screen for too long! Delay in live performance and TV work is a key consideration.

So - Im going to join jason on the fence too - but my feet are on the DVI-fibre distribution side when possible...

Simon

[SourceChild]

Hey Christian,
What models are you using?

[IanH]

Permit me to reply,
Our client purchased a Thinklogical DCS fiber switcher with the Vis 23 Transmitters and recievers.

The TX and Rx boxs can be joined by a ST fiber and work independently

but we wanted the system to work via a matrix... it worked out of the box in Vegas for the Latin Grammys and image quality was stunning.

the Txs all have a monitor loopthrough and store the EDID data-- they can also power via DVI

The Rx have two DVI outputs - perfect for hot backup projectors and have Multi voltage Powersupplys --- very usefull in USA with 208v projectors.

Control is ONLY via IP ----one slight down side is a lack of a confidence display on the DCS.... but i am talking to the tech team at Think Logical currently.

Currently its just sitting on the desk, but hopefully next week it will be intergrated into a rack with the Raid array and some other toys.

We use standard orange patch fibers for local runs (cheap) and purchased 300ft Mil spec 4 cores for the projector feeds ---shame they are Black ---look just like a dmx cable.

One thing i would add is that even though we could use a Cat - DCS -Screen path we will still have a whole pile of Image Pros in the system doing SDI feeds to Plasmas and OB trucks --- AND providing a confidence monitor.

blessed is the Image Pro and all who sail/fly with one

My collegue FOH (JR) has a SDI to DVI device that we were hoping to test on this show as a return back from the OB truck but play time is over... its show time..

Regards

IanH ---- as normal sitting round the back in the dark

PS ----RB is a God---

Miracle One ---Screen warping ---- september tour, 2 hours to show -- we need a screen --got screen and projector, rigged both after doors projector at least 25 degrees off access and over shooting ---catalyst warped image in perfectly in seconds and that included the phone call for advice on how.
oh we used an image pro on SDI input of cat to mix clients DVD and TXT computer
Miracle two. ---- Blending -- with over 30years experiance of wide screen i was a catalyst blending sceptic, Encore yes, Spyder yes.. But for the LGs we used dual outputs of 1920 with blending for a forty foot screen - well chuffed with the blend ---(the dust stayed on the blendpro box) --

feel free to ask if you need more info,

[SourceChild]

Ian,

I have more questions. Email me when you get the chance.

SourceChild AT Runbox DOT com

Todd