FS1-X v1.1
www.aja.com
11
Chapter 1: Introduction
Overview
Matching up and synchronizing disparate video and audio formats is a critical part of any
broadcast, mobile or post-production environment. AJA’s FS1-X is the next evolution in
frame synchronization and conversion. Within its compact 1RU chassis, FS1-X integrates
an amazing array of video and audio connectivity and processing. Featuring a flexible
architecture, FS1-X simultaneously works with 3G/HD/SD-SDI 10-bit broadcast quality
video and incorporates embedded audio, AES, MADI, and analog audio.
Utilizing AJA’s remarkable conversion algorithms, FS1-X supports up, down and cross-
conversion between SD and HD signals for the highest quality output possible.
Additionally, the factory-installed motion adaptive Frame Rate Converter (FRC) option
enables high quality conversions between different frame rate families for virtually
unlimited international standards support.
The growth of 5.1 and 7.1 audio has increased the number of audio channels that must
be managed in a production. The MADI standard provides a convenient way to transport
huge numbers of audio channels along a single cable, simplifying the cabling demands
for broadcasters, mobile trucks and production. FS1-X supports both fiber and coax 64
channel MADI input and output. An internal 224x224 audio matrix allows full routing of
MADI and all audio coming from SDI, fiber, AES and analog sources for an incredible
amount of audio processing capability in a single box.
FS1-X features a unique keyer configuration, allowing incoming signals to be combined
in powerful ways. A common example is sidebar keying, where incoming video is
converted from SD to HD but rather than stretching the 4:3 aspect ratio to fit in a 16:9
frame, a second signal is used to fill the sides of the 16:9 frame. This allows channel
identification or other imagery to be placed in that area rather than having black bars on
either side. The robust AFD features of FS1-X ensure that the aspect ratio of the outgoing
signal is properly identified for downstream devices.
Video Features
• The FS1-X handles a wide variety of video formats. See
“Video Input/Output Formats” on
page 111
for a complete list.
• Video format converter, featuring SD/HD (up/down), 2K/HD (up/down), SD-to-SD
(aspect ratio), and HD-to-HD (720/1080 cross) conversions.
• Video proc amp and color correction.
• Dual frame synchronizers.
• User-specified custom format conversion and scaling with variable crop, size, aspect,
position, and Region of Interest parameters.
• Sidebar keying over black, matte, or the same format video.