Frame Sync and Format Conversion

The switcher has multiple input frame synchronizer / format converter (FSFC) and input de-interlacers that can be used to convert video input signals to the format that the switcher is operating in, as well as correct mistimed, or drifting, video input signal. The frame synchronizers cannot completely correct badly formatted video, mistimed switches, signal drops, or similar issues.

Each FSFC channel maintains a separate setting for different video formats. This lets you change between video formats without losing FSFC channel configurations.

The Carbonite frame has up to 6 FSFC channels that are shared between all inputs. The Carbonite MultiMedia and Carbonite+ frames have a dedicated FSFC channel per input.

Keep the following in mind:

Keep the following in mind when working with Frame Synchronizers and Format Converters:

  • The De-Interlacers, and HDMI™ and Analog Inputs are only available on the Carbonite MultiMedia frame.
  • De-Interlacing strips embedded audio data, and all other HANC and VANC data, from the video signal.
  • If a video format not compatible with the currently defined conversion is used, the video image is frozen with the last successfully processed image frame.
  • FSFCs create a one-frame delay in the video output of the switcher for the video signal being converted.
  • FSFCs strip embedded audio data from the video signal. Ensure that no FSFC channels are assigned to any input or bus you are using with external audio mode.
  • In the Carbonite and Carbonite eXtreme frames, FSFC channels are assigned to either specific video inputs or bus-pairs. Each bus-pair requires two FSFC for key video and key alpha, or program and preset. Aux buses do not require bus-pairs.
  • If one FSFC channel in a bus-pair is turned off, the paired FSFC channel is also turned off.
  • The switcher is set to switch on the first field when using Bus mode.
  • Format conversion is not supported when the switcher is operating in a 1080pSF video format. Only Frame Synchronization is supported.
  • In the MiniME FSFC switcher mode, the switcher cannot frame sync a 1080pSF video format on input BNC 1. All other inputs work correctly.
  • The FSFCs used in the switcher conform to the SMPTE ST 125:2013 standard. Some older equipment may not fully conform to the current standards and can send out-of-spec video to the switcher which can have unexpected results. Ensure that video coming into the switcher conforms to current standards, especially with regard to 480i video signals with variable blanking sizes.