AJA Video Systems today released new v3.0 firmware for its FS4 frame 4K/UltraHD and multi-channel HD synchronizer and up/down/cross converter. Loaded with new feature improvements, the free update offers production professionals support for advanced HDR workflows; increased frame buffering depth from 6 to 20 frames; enhanced ancillary data management; and improved overall usability.
During the pandemic, expanded use of augmented reality and virtual cameras that require additional processing time surged for live productions, demanding longer synchronization periods for other sources. Incorporating the same enhancements as AJA FS-HDR, the FS4 v3.0 update increases the device’s frame buffer depth to support configurable delays of up to 20 frames. This free update is available to all FS4 users and does not require a hardware change.
As HDR productions are on the rise, the need for better VPID management is mandatory. Many pieces of equipment in the signal chain ignore or delete this now critical information. FS4 v3.0 offers the ability to configure the HDR components of the SDI output VPID on a channel-by-channel basis, which has proven vital to workflows that require a consistent and correct VPID. If utilizing the monitor output, overwriting the SDI VPID also overwrites the HDMI EOTF and Colorimetry infoframes. To further assist with HDR workflows, FS4 v3.0 also includes new HDR test patterns and an improved Web UI status page to display more VPID information.
In response to industry demand and user feedback, FS4 v3.0 also increases ancillary data pass-through or translation capabilities for a wide range of formats and conversions. In transmission applications requiring the use of SCTE-104 markers for ad insertion, FS4 will now automatically pass-through SCTE-104 packets. FS4’s new Timecode Xlator will pass-through or translate ancillary timecode (LTC, VITC1, or VITC2). The update also expands the set of conversions that support pass-through of Closed Captioning.
Additionally, Enhanced Single Channel Mode (ESC) offers simultaneous 4K/UltraHD and 2K/HD outputs where the 2K/HD output can have its own unique down-conversion applied. In this mode, processing can be performed on a true 4K or UltraHD signal, and a down-converter is available for HD or SD needs via the SDI monitor output.
To download this update please click here
FS4 is your real world answer for conversions of any resolution, built to AJA’s high quality and reliability standards. 4K/UltraHD delivery, processing and synchronization is fast becoming the next standard, and FS4 gets you there with a wealth of digital video connectivity including Quad 1.5G, Dual 3G, Quad 3G over 3G-SDI and 12Gb/6Gb over optional 12G-SDI BNC and 12G-SDI LC Fiber SFP modules. In single channel mode, FS4 will upscale your HD or SD materials to 4K/UltraHD and back, with a huge array of audio channels over Fiber, 3G-SDI, AES, and MADI for an incredible 272 x 208 matrix of audio possibilities. Welcome to Four Channel Mode. In four channel mode FS4 provides incredibly powerful multi-channel conversion with up to 4 channels of simultaneous processing for 2K/HD and SD signals. New thinking requires a new layout and FS4’s front panel has been redesigned to simplify and speed your access to the product’s wealth of features. The panel has also been designed to provide straightforward operation in single channel or four channel mode. In four channel mode, all four VIDx buttons under Channel Select are lit up. In single channel mode, only VID1 is lit and VID2-4 are off. Multi-channel density in a 1RU Chassis. Space, energy and power preserved.
Multi-channel Frame Synchronizer and Format Converter
Four Independent 2K, HD, or SD Video Processors
One 4K, UltraHD, 2K, HD, or SD Video Processor
Up, down, cross-conversion
4x 3G-SDI In and 4x 3G-SDI Out
12G-SDI (HD-BNC) I/O with Optional SFPs
12G-SDI Fiber I/O with Optional SFPs
Quadrant (Square Division) or 2SI (Two Sample Interleave) 4K/UltraHD input pixel mapping
1x 3G-SDI and 1x HDMI Monitor Outputs
16-channel embedded audio over SDI per port, 8-ch AES In and Out, 64-ch MADI Fiber and 64-ch MADI Coax I/O
Front panel controls
Easy to use web UI, configure and control from standard web browsers
Five year warranty
