Arena is used in forming AB mixing in between two input signals with a simultaneous imposition of animated graphics. For the main part, the generator is to be used during sport broadcasts when it may be essential to carry out a transition from the program signal to the slow-motion repeats server and/or back. The AB transition is performed by two mixers linked in series: the first mixes sources, according to the linear method that is applied by the AB-KEY signal, while the second one superimposes the graphics (the FILL, KEY signals) in accordance with the DSK method. The ARENA generator represents an assemblage of graphic players that reproduce synchronically the three signals: KEY, FILL and AB-KEY and two mixers – AB and DSK. Because the AB-KEY is composed in the same way as the graphics (FILL, KEY) – in a graphics files sequence, the ARENA generator permits to receive the transition from one signal to the other, synchronous and ideally repeating the outlines of graphics superimposed over the background image. Using the ARENA generator affords a number of great advantages as opposed to any graphic systems based on PC platforms that are only able to superimpose graphics and force its users to fine tune an AB-wipe on the master switcher. The Arena generator operates in two main modes: it can either feed FILL, KEY and AB-KEY signals for external mixing or form an output composition by using the internal AB and DSK mixers. The Arena generator has a digital audio playout option that allows to play sounds simultaneously with graphics transition. The ARENA can be controlled either locally, externally by using remote control panel or GPI interface. CONVERTION AND TRANSMISSION OF GRAPHICSA set of clips – the sequence of graphic files – is to be used to form FILL, KEY and AB-KEY signals. These files would be prepared and converted into a native format of the generator on a PC. The ARENA generator supports a particular TNG graphic format optimized for rapid transmission of clips from the CF cards to internal memory. The program converter is included in a delivery set to create the TNG files. It operates with standard TGA files which in turn can be made by any graphic editors. The created clips are written and stored on the Compact Flash memory cards. The Card Reader device is included in the delivery set for this, whereas the generator is equipped with a CF adapter. The recorded clips are kept on the CF when the power is off. When it is back on again, the generator reads off from the memory card the current settings and proceeds by uploading the selected clips in the SDRAM. It is from here that they will be played out later. The Compact Flash memory cards accept hot swapping, i.e. they may be inserted in or pulled out of the adapter when the power is on. TECHNICAL CHARACTERISTICS
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Arena – A Graphic Transitions Generator