Eyeheight's newly launched data transcoder, enigma, enables a wide range of metadata and machine-control information to be transported through an SDI channel.
enigma has many applications, including relay of camera pan/tilt angle and speed from the point of capture to 3D effects equipment in a postproduction studio. The transcoder can also be used to deliver recorded-media details such as date, time and clock number. Data is encoded by enigma onto three user-selectable lines within the programme blanking-interval. These are decoded back to RS-232 serial signal format, creating a fully transparent and highly-reliable data link. Data lines can be concealed from the forwarded picture. The encoded signal may be stored on videotape or disc with the source content to which it relates. enigma's data channel is very robust to survive the compression applied in many signal archiving and distribution formats. The data protocol itself is user-definable and free of proprietary formatting. Up to six enigma units can be housed in a single Eyeheight 1U Maxi-Box and operated under remote or local control. Rear chassis inputs and outputs are provided for SDI and RS-232. (GB)
