Multi-Purpose system

5 replies [Last post]
Spready
Offline
Joined: Apr 28 2001

Ok, here goes!
I am trying to set up a multi-purpose video suite that will include a PC with the Matrox RTX10. There are a number of video sources needed for input and a number of SVHS decks for the output, along with a monitor.
The problem is I also need to be able to bypass the PC in certain circumstances!

My idea is to have a 4in 2out splitter sitting in between everything!

IN:
1. SVHS player
2. VHS Time lapse decoder and player
3. Hi8 Video player
4. AV Out from NLE PC

OUT:
1. SVHS Distributor that connects to 4 SVHS recorders and a monitor (powered)
2. AV in to NLE PC

This way I can select In 1 and Out 1 to do a straight duplication job without going through the PC.
I could select In 1 and out 2 to capture SVHS tape to the PC
I could then select In 4 and Out 1 to monitor my editing and to export my work to SVHS.

Will this work?????
Will I have problems?
Is there a better way?

Here’s hoping and I hope that this makes sense!

Spready
All sorts of kit....but never enough!

Spready
Offline
Joined: Apr 28 2001

Have I made this too complicated? I could really do with some thoughts before I give a total price!
Thanks in advance.

Spready
All sorts of kit....but never enough!

harlequin
harlequin's picture
Offline
Joined: Aug 16 2000

i haven't replied because i don't use a distribution system.
BUT , i think your plan should work.

i input/output to only one svhs and one dv deck.

Gary MacKenzie

sepulce@hotmail.com ( an account only used for forum messages )

Thinkserver TS140 , 750ti Graphics card  & LG 27" uws led backlight , Edius 8

Humax Foxsat HD Pvr / Humax Fox T2 dvbt

Charles
Offline
Joined: Apr 7 1999

I've a similar set up but with a Casablanca and use a AV mixer to feed Casablanca any of three sources,the output of the mixer then goes to a 1 in 2 out split box.

Could you not feed your SVHS Distributor straight from the PC ?

With the 1 in 2 out switch box i have the option of a single copy or feed the duplication amps straight from Casablanca

With the VHS vcr you can buy a phono to "S" adapter this would let you use a "S" switch box that's if it would work with a VHS Time lapse decoder and player.
HTH

Regards
Charles
avsvideo.co.uk

Spready
Offline
Joined: Apr 28 2001

Thanks for the replies - I must be learning!
I had thought about feeding the SVHS distributer from the PC BUT I couldn't then bypass the PC for straight copies to be made where no editing is required. This part of the system will be used by people other than myself so I needed a way of not going through the PC.

I will let you all know how I get on when I put it all together.
Thanks again and any more help, suggestions are welcome.

Spready
All sorts of kit....but never enough!

John Disdle
Offline
Joined: Dec 28 2000

Had you thought about a patch panel. Top row are outputs, bottom row inputs. A few short leads with appropriate plugs is all you need.
This was used when I worked in the broadcast industry before they invented the digital router. The patch panel never locked up!

Having said that, I use two four button switch boxes used for the audio only, and Svhs leads with a plug one end and socket the other. This switches Svhs player deck, tape deck, pc and minidisk out, to mixer, tape deck, DV500 BOB and pc in. The Svhs rec. deck inputs are by plug/socket between BOB and mixer.

John.