© 2012 Harmonic Inc.
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Electra 1000, Version 3.0, Rev M
Appendix F
FLEX Decoding Module
F.1 Introduction
The FLEX decoding module delivers video decoding capability and is integrated into either an
Electra or Ion encoder chassis (which will be referred to as the “host” encoder). The FLEX
decoding module (hereafter referred to as the FLEX module) is a decoding module only (see
Figure F-1). A single FLEX module is able to decode up to two (2) incoming channels, and an
appropriately configured encoder can deliver up to four (4) channels in a single rack-unit (1-
RU). The FLEX module decodes MPEG-2 in both standard definition (SD) or high definition
(HD) formats, thereby eliminating the dependency on ingress formats. The FLEX module is a
unique gateway designed with the flexibility to deliver any type of pre-compressed video to
any host encoder. The FLEX module supports both ASI and IP inputs, the most efficient
interfaces used to route and transport pre-compressed video feeds.
NOTE:
AHC-561 card is not supported for use with FLEX modules.
The FLEX module is controlled and configured with the NMX Digital Service Manager
application or SAG, the web-based GUI. The FLEX module also accepts decoded ATSC 8VSB
signals from the RF Input card (
on page 65). The FLEX module does not
descramble or reconstruct all audio and ancillary data services (such as VBI) on the output
port.
NOTE:
The encoder chassis configuration must include an input module for IP. The same GbE Pro card
are used for both ProStream 1000 muxes and Electra encoders.
Figure F-1: FLEX Module Ports
F.2 Video Decoding Specifications
Table F-1 describes video specifications supported by the FLEX module See the following
tables for more information about video and audio compression.
Table F-1: Video Decoding Features
Feature
Support
Video Decoding
MPEG-2 MP@ML
MPEG-2 MP@HL
AVC SD and HD
Aspect Ratios
4:3 and 16:9
