Pixel Magic Systems VPS3800 manual

4.6.3.2CALIBRATE THE VIDEO LEVEL AND COLOR BALANCE OF YOUR VIDEO SOURCES

Once you have calibrated your display for correct video output levels and color balance, you don’t have to calibrate your video sources if they also have correct video level and color balance. But in practice, however, most of the video sources will still have some form of problem with video levels or color balance and we have to calibrate them one by one for perfect results.

To calibrate video sources, we ideally need test patterns originating from the video source. This is straightforward using readily available specialist calibration DVDs. Many HDTV stations also carry test material at certain times of the day. In the absence of any specific test material it is quite difficult to calibrate, as you can only make the picture look how you expect it to be. This may not be correct, so check several discs to gain a good balance. Please follow the steps below for each video source connected to Crystalio II:

Step 1: Reset Crystalio II’s video settings to the default values:

•Contrast, Brightness (default = 0)

•Red, Green, Blue Offsets and Gains (default = 0)

•Gamma correction (default type Standard, and value = 0)

Step 2: For sources connected to Crystalio II’s HDMI input ports, select the correct input video:

•Press Menu remote control key to enter OSD (On Screen Display) menu

•Select Input, then Input Port Configuration, then press the action

button. (If you can’t find the action button, select the Advanced Option under System sub-menu and turn Advanced Option ON first).

•If your source device is equipped with HDMI output, configure Crystalio II’s HDMI input level as HDMI Standard

•If your source device is a normal consumer AV product, configure Crystalio II’s HDMI output level as Video Level (16-235)

•If your source device is a PC, configure Crystalio II’s HDMI output level as PC Level (0-255)

•If you are not sure what video level is correct, leave it set at Standard. Or if the picture is excessively dark or very washed out, try changing the HDMI input level to see if which one is the best

Step 3: Calibrate the black level (brightness) of your video source:

•Find a video test pattern for adjusting black level, e.g. the Black Bar pattern from AVIA

•Turn the brightness setting of Crystalio II down excessively so that you see the whole image as black

•Turn the brightness up until you can barely see the difference of the black background and the slightly brighter black bar (AVIA test)

Step 4: Calibrating the white level (contrast or peak white level) of your video source:

•Find a video test pattern for adjusting white level, e.g. the Needle Pulse from AVIA

•Turn the contrast setting of Crystalio II up excessively so that you see the whole image as white

•Turn the contrast down until you can barely see the difference of the white background and the slightly darker white bar

Step 5: Calibrating the color balance of your video source:

•Find a video test pattern with 0 to 100 IRE (stair step patterns are ideal) and pay attention to the black bar and white (100 IRE) bar

•Adjust Red, Green, and/or Blue Offset settings of Crystalio II to fine tune the color of black bar if it doesn’t look a neutral black

•Adjust Red, Green, and/or Blue Gain settings of Crystalio II to fine tune the color of white bar if it doesn’t look a neutral white

VPS3800 specifications

The Pixel Magic Systems VPS3800 is an advanced video processing system designed to cater to a wide range of professional applications in the broadcasting and live event sectors. This device is renowned for its versatility, reliability, and superior performance, making it an ideal choice for event producers, broadcasters, and AV professionals who demand the highest standards in video processing.

One of the standout features of the VPS3800 is its ability to handle multiple signal formats. It supports a broad array of input and output formats, including SDI, HDMI, and various IP streams, enabling seamless integration into existing workflows. This flexibility ensures that users can easily adapt to evolving technical requirements without needing significant hardware updates.

The VPS3800 is equipped with sophisticated upscaling and downscaling technology, allowing it to deliver high-quality visuals regardless of the original source resolution. This feature is especially crucial in live events, during which maintaining visual integrity across various displays is paramount. The system utilizes advanced algorithms to enhance picture quality, ensuring that footage looks sharp and vibrant.

Another key characteristic of the VPS3800 is its powerful real-time processing capabilities. With low latency and high throughput, the system enables operators to manipulate video feeds instantly, which is vital for live productions where timing is everything. This feature is complemented by an intuitive user interface that streamlines the decision-making process for operators, allowing them to focus on creative control.

The VPS3800 integrates cutting-edge technologies such as HDR (High Dynamic Range) support, which significantly enhances the visual experience by providing greater contrast and color accuracy. Additionally, it features advanced color grading tools that allow for precise adjustments, ensuring that content meets the highest cinematic standards.

Moreover, the VPS3800 is designed with robust networking capabilities, including support for NDI (Network Device Interface), enabling flexible configurations and remote production setups. This makes it easier for teams to collaborate across locations while maintaining high-quality video feeds.

Overall, the Pixel Magic Systems VPS3800 is a powerful and versatile video processing solution that sets a new standard in the industry. With its advanced features, support for multiple formats, and real-time processing capabilities, it is a top choice for professionals looking to elevate their broadcast and live event productions.