Blackmagic Design announces HDLink

High-Definition 4:4:4 DVI monitoring converter with audio disembedding for $1,295

Las Vegas, NV — April 14, 2004 — Blackmagic Design announced today the immediate availability of HDLink, an innovative high-definition monitoring converter for digital displays such as projectors and LCD panels. HDLink connects professional dual-link HD-SDI, HD-SDI, and standard-definition SDI equipment to most displays with DVI-D inputs.

Using an all-digital conversion and signal path, HDLink provides higher quality monitoring than previously available at this price point. Use of the DVI-D format provides compatibility with a wide variety of inexpensive digital high-definition displays, such as plasma and LCD monitors — as well as professional systems such as JVC D-ILA video gamma profiled projectors.

HDLink automatically switches between dual-link HD-SDI 4:4:4, HD-SDI 4:2:2, and standard-definition SDI signals. All video framerates are supported and output between 48 and 72Hz. Embedded audio is automatically delayed to match video latency and output through unbalanced RCA pair connectors. With this multi-standard support, it is a natural choice for monitoring with high-definition editing systems such as those using DeckLink HD Pro.

Conversion is performed with 10-bit precision for 4:2:2 formats, and up to 12-bit for 4:4:4 RGB formats. Using a USB host computer, users can adjust gamma settings to calibrate to their display device. Customizable gamma tables also allow for proper display of logrythmic video files commonly used for feature film post-production. The control software is available for both Mac OS X and Windows XP, with USB 2.0 connectivity allowing firmware upgrades via internet downloadable updates.

HDLink supports all DVI-D based digital computer displays. For 1080 and 720 HDTV formats a 1920 x 1200 (16:10) resolution display is optimal, though other resolutions are supported. NTSC/PAL video input is line-doubled for larger display.

HDLink Features

• SDI 4:2:2 and 4:4:4 support
• HDTV format support at 1080 lines at 24P, 25P, 30P, 48I, 50I, 60I
• HDTV format support at 720 lines at in 30P, 50P, 60P
• Standard definition format support: NTSC, PAL
• Pixel-for-pixel support on LCD displays
• Color precision support: 4:2:2 10 bit, 4:4:4 10 bit, 4:4:4 12bit
• Color space support: 4:2:2 YUV, 4:4:4 YUV, 4:4:4 RGB
• Gamma correction via independently adjustable 10 bit lookup tables
• Support for video payload identification ancillary data as per SMPTE 352M
• Supports DVI-Digital compatible displays
• Automatic adjustment to native display resolution using VESA E-EDID1.3
• Adaptive pull-down processor guarantees smooth motion display
• 2x resize of NTSC and PAL on 1920x1200 pixel displays selectable
• Analog 24-bit audio output using RCA connectors
• Audio output employs soft-mute technology to eliminate audible glitches when input video modes change
• Functions as a stand-alone audio decoder if no display attached
• USB 2.0 High Speed (480Mb/s) interface
• Firmware upgrade via USB on Mac OS X and Windows XP
• Interactive gamma table manipulation via USB

About Blackmagic Design

Blackmagic Design manufacturers video interface cards for the Post-Production and Television Broadcast industries featuring high-quality codecs and broad compatibility. Their accomplishments include developing the first uncompressed 10-bit QuickTime drivers and codec for Mac OS X. Blackmagic Design's headquarters, manufacturing, nd development facility is located in the post production district of South Melbourne, Victoria, Australia.

About Audio Intervisual Design

Audio Intervisual Design sells and supports the complete line of Blackmagic Design professional video products and maintains complete systems available for demonstration by appointment at their Hollywood offices. For over 20 years, Audio Intervisual Design has been a reseller, integrator, and consultant to Production and Post-Production professionals in the Television, Motion-Picture, and Recording industies. Email us today or call (323) 845-1155 so we can discuss your questions and specific needs, arrange a demonstration, and customize a system for you.