At IBC 2017 Trilogy Communications, a supplier of intercom solutions and master reference generators and a subsidiary of Clear-Com®, will present the European debut of Mentor RG, the new sync and test pulse generator (SPG) with unparalleled accuracy and reliability for broadcast reference and test signals. Its design is built on several generations of proven Trilogy Sync and Test Generators.
The Mentor RG generates synchronized video, audio and timecode signals for broadcast purposes to an extremely accurate time signature, often provided by a GPS reference system, which is then passed on to the ‘mission critical’ automation system. The single box solution ensures absolute synchronization of multiple signals in any broadcast or professional media application. The Mentor would typically be installed as the master reference generator in a TV station or an OB truck. Since accurate reference signals are crucial to successful operations, two Mentors and a changeover would be used to give the ultimate in redundancy.
All SD and HD reference and test signals are generated simultaneously for both 525 and 625 standards, with independent timing control for all outputs to meet the most demanding requirements. The Mentor pays special attention to multiple audio generators assignable for AES audio including DARS; embedded audio in the SD/HD channels; Wordclock; and Analog stereo audio.
The Mentor RG offers three key features through options:
• Up to ten Tri-Level Sync outputs for all 720 and 1080 standards. Two TLS outputs come as standard in the base unit and two option cards can bring this to ten. Tri-level sync is the analog video sync pulse which is typically used for the locking of HD video signals and preferred in HD environments over black and burst.
• The ability to lock to external LTC time code or external Tri Level Sync, widening the scope of reference signals that can be used to ’discipline’ the updated internal oscillator, which is now five times more stable.
• In an IP-based TV station, the Precision Time Protocol (IEEE-1588 PTP) brings a complete peace of mind solution to synchronizing time sensitive audio packets over Ethernet.
The Mentor RG also provides redundancy options to ensure uptime of the system. There is a selection of options to upgrade and customize as needed.
“Generations of Trilogy SPG products are widely deployed in many broadcast studios around the world and are trusted for their accuracy and dependability,” said Stephen Sandford, product manager, Trilogy. “We are pleased to build on this legacy with the introduction of Mentor RG and providing Clear-Com and Trilogy customers access to this latest set of SPG capabilities.”