Harris ADC 100, User Manual

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Harris ADC Device Server User’s Guide
Introduction 7
Automation system components (including the ADC Device Server) are connected through a
local area network (LAN), in a client-server configuration. The ADC Device Server integrates
the on-air playout system by using station reference video to maintain timing, by using station
timecode to keep to the on air schedule and by controlling virtually any serially-controlled
device (including satellite receivers), and any GPI (General Purpose Interface) controlled
device. The Master Control operator can control the on air playout from a Harris control panel
(similar to a Master Control Switcher Panel). The system can also be started automatically by
time of day, as well as remotely by GPI.
Features
Features provided by the Harris ADC Device Server include:
◆ Software-based System . Most automation systems use the SMPTE standard E/S
Bus to communicate and control broadcast devices. These systems use hardware
interface boxes between the E/S Bus and the devices. Modification or
customization of a system typically involves changes to the hardware, which can
be a difficult process. The ADC Device Server instead uses software tools (objects)
to communicate with broadcast devices in lieu of hardware interface boxes. With
the ADC Device Server, modification to the system is simpler and throughput is
faster.
◆ Object Oriented Programming . The ADC Device Server software is written using
a modern programming technique called object oriented programming (OOP).
With OOP, broadcast devices are treated as software modules or objects. Each
object can be easily modified and extended to support other makes and models of
devices within the same family. Development of custom software modules is
faster and more affordable.
◆ Real Time Control . The ADC Device Server provides frame accurate control.
◆ Future Proof . The Harris system is extendable to new devices, new applications
(for example, HDTV) and current applications (such as multichannel output,
video disk servers and compiling). The system is designed to fully support future
needs and requirements.
◆ Harris Application Programming Interface (API) . Harris’ Application
Programming Interface (API) is software that creates a bridge between external
applications and the ADC Device Server. It allows external applications, such as a
newsroom system, or custom modules to seamlessly link to the devices. The API
allows system integrators or customers to develop applications that work directly
with the ADC Device Server.
◆ Client/Server Architecture . The ADC Device Server utilizes a versatile
implementation of client/server architecture. With this architecture, the workload