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Cinedeck® ZX 45 (4-ch Upgraded GPU & CPU)

Cinedeck ZX is a multi-channel, multi-codec, multi-format, video recording and playback system that can operate stand-alone or be fully integrated into a larger production environment. ZX is available in three base models with two or four full duplex, HD/SD 3G input and output channels; ZX20 has two channels while ZX40 and ZX45 are four channel systems.

Each AVBB ZX comes with all of Cinedeck’s standard codecs including ProRes, DNxHD, XDCAM HD, AVC-Intra, IMX (D-1O) and H.264. Wrapper selections include a variety of MOV, MXF Op1A and MXF OpAtom profiles.

AVBB Cinedeck ZX systems also include the complete Cinedeck feature set, which means your ZX will match your edit systems and workflows perfectly, now and in the future, recording native files in the formats you require, to the storage destinations you need to work from.

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For a full comparison list, please visit www.cinedeck.com/products/comparison/

Each AVBB ZX comes with the extended Cinedeck feature set:

Standard features include:

  • Simultaneous master and proxy recordings per channel.
  • Redundant, multi-destination recording to SSDs, SAN, NAS and local attached storage.
  • Two or four removable (hot-swappable) drive trays, each of which can hold two SSD disks.
  • XLR monitor connections.
  • An array of traditional broadcast and IT connectivity including a slot for 8 / 10 / 16Gb networking.
  • A full selection of overlay and video burn-in selections such as timecode, file name, user text and more.
  • Analysis tools such as waveform, vectorscope and signal generator.
  • Support for AMP and VDCP, allowing communication and control from many broadcast systems.

 

Additional Features included in the AVBB Cinedeck Packages:

Included Codecs:

AVC-Intra, DNxHD, DPX, DV, DVCProHD, H.264, IMX, JFIF, ProRes, Uncompressed, XDcam HD
 

Optional Codecs (License fee required):

JPEG 2000 (ZX20 and ZX40 will also need a hardware modification), VC-5 {Cineform}
 

Included File Wrappers:

MOV, MXF Op1a, MXF OpAtom:

  • MOV files can be created with a choice of standard interleaved audio, mono audio tracks or MOV wrapped video with audio encoded in separate WAV (wave) files.
  • AVID Op-Atom MXF wrapped content for true Avid native integration can be generated.  Encoded content includes an AAF file for easy Drag & Drop import into Avid bins.  To assist in data management, Cinedeck’s OpAtom wrapping provides human readable names for all audio and video ‘atom’ files.  Additionally, an OpAtom wrapper is available for Avid Interplay compatibility.
  • To match a variety of workflow requirements for many post-production and distribution requirements, multiple Op1A versions are included.  XDCAM HD Op1A growing files for “edit while record” are supported in Adobe Premiere.

 

4K & UHDTV-1:

Cinedeck ZX40 and ZX45 support 4K YUV (4096 x 2160) and UHDTV-1 YUV (3840 x 2160) recording, simultaneously writing the 4K master files, HD master files, proxy files and streamable H.264 files, all with associated metadata and the file naming you choose, to smooth the process of match-back between the various files.

  • ZX45 supports one 4K YUV or one UHD YUV source up to 60fps and delivers:
    • 4K / UHD files
    • HD master files
    • HD Proxy files
    • Streamable H.264 files that can be delivered live by a streaming server
  • ZX40 supports one 4K YUV or one UHD YUV source up to 30fps and delivers:
    • 4K / UHD files
    • HD master files
    • HD Proxy files
    • Streamable H.264 files that can be delivered live by a streaming server
  • ZX20 supports a single channel of 4K YUV or UHD YUV playback up to 30fps

 

Insert Editing:

All ZX models support Cinedeck’s true file-based insert editing, which allows replacement of video, audio and closed caption data in closed files, channel-to-channel on the Cinedeck and directly from a range of NLEs. ProRes, DNxHD, AVC-Intra, XDCAM HD and JPEG 2000 essence are all supported.

 

8-Input Record:

Cinedeck - 8 input displayThe Cinedeck ZX hardware I/O design is such that with a firmware and software upgrade, video output ports can be remapped as video input ports.  A four input / four output ZX 45 can be repurposed as an eight input recorder with no outputs. Local playback in the user interface is still available.

Note: XDCAM HD recording is limited to 6 channels and standard 8 channel record mode is master only, no simultaneous proxies are available. Contact Cinedeck to discuss optional simultaneous H264 proxy recording.

 
 
 
 

DPX and Uncompressed:

Cinedeck ZX40 & 45 can support up to four channels of DPX or uncompressed recording or playback while ZX20 can support up to two channels of DPX or uncompressed.

 

Stereo – 3D:

3D recording using any appropriate codec is supported on all multi-channel Cinedecks.

 

Cross Conversion:

Current Cinedeck models support some basic conversion:

  • SD>HD up-convert on playback
  • HD>4K up-convert on record
  • Limited HD>SD down-convert on record

Contact Cinedeck to discuss additional up, down or cross conversion.

 

* Avid Interplay Check-in:

An OpAtom wrapper is currently available for Avid Interplay compatibility and basic direct Avid Interplay Check-in will soon be available. For a much broader range of Interplay functionality, utilizing Op1a and MOV file wrapping, Cinedeck ZX recorded content can be checked in using Medway from Marquis Broadcast. Medway can automatically check live recordings in, supports growing file editing and users can manually select specific clips or sub-clips to process.

 

Advanced Scheduling:

Cinedeck ZX decks with Deck & EDL Control support the scheduling of multiple recording events, up to twenty-four hours in advance, allowing unattended activation on a channel-by-channel basis using the EDL function. An enhanced multi-event date & time scheduling application is available as well.

 

Advanced Deck & EDL Control:

Cinedeck - Advanced Deck ControlThis feature adds RS-422 connections, allowing each Cinedeck ZX channel to support source deck control and auto-record using an EDL to control the starting and stopping of recording events. Control from NLEs is supported with several BVW/SRW emulation modes. Also included, each Cinedeck channel can be tethered with a Spirit Telecine Controller for film- to-file transfers.

 
 
 
 
 

Transcoding:

Cinedeck ZX allows selecting content to play and simultaneously encode in any other available format in real-time.

 

WEIGHT & DIMENSIONS:

Weight: 49 lbs (22.23 Kg)

Dimensions: 21.5″ x 16.9″ x 6.9″ (42.9cm x 54.6cm x 17.8cm)

For those who were not part of the “video tape generation”, magnetic video tape on a reel or in a cassette (still in use in many facilities worldwide), was the mainstay of video production, at least until the late 1990’s.  Between the 1950s and 2000s, tape technology improved but across the evolution, typical workflows for putting together a program have always consisted of the same steps:

1) Gather the many source tapes that hold the content for the final program.
2) Accurately re-record segments from a tape player to a tape recorder, shot-by-shot, audio track by audio track, usually from the beginning of the program to the end.

It is tedious and requires excellent timing, rhythm, and planning because once you pass a section, significant changes are difficult.  One advantage to linear tape editing is that when you get to the end, you are done…There is no additional, time-consuming output phase as there is with non-linear edit systems.  Also, QC (quality control) is already complete because the work is observed and processed in real-time.  Another somewhat forgotten but dramatic advantage is tape technology allows inserting or replacing content in the middle of a program.  This means last minute changes can be completed mere seconds before a program must be delivered or go “on-air”.

These crash sessions can be very stressful but the practical deadline is, however, many seconds it takes to rewind a program back to the start from wherever the changes were made.

Because of this insert edit capability, when used as the deliverable format from a non-linear editor, tape is a great time saver.  When a change is made in the show timeline, no long render or export sessions are involved, all that needs to be done is a quick insert from the NLE to the tape of the changed section.
Today however, video tape has been phased out to the point that many companies only accept files for program deliveries, which brings us to why Cinedecks are “The Ultimate VTR Replacement”.

A Cinedeck is like having multiple VTRs in one box except the Cinedeck is incredibly intelligent, with support for all standard video formats, most recording and production codecs and a host of features never before seen, all in a box that is lighter and less expensive than one good tape machine.

 

Insert Baseband Mode

Cinedecks support true, file-based insert editing from the SDI input to ProRes, DNxHD, AVC-Intra, XDCAM HD and JPEG 2000 essence. Insert edit allows content to be accurately replaced in a file, based on timecode in and out points – pretty much just like working on tape.

Typically, it is a time-consuming and tedious process to create a final file from a NLE.  In the best and most streamlined situations, you edit a program, export the program to a flat file and then QC the file. Typically, one or more editorial or technical problems will be discovered and while any one issue may only be a few seconds long, it is necessary to go back to the NLE, make the fix and repeat the entire export and QC process – this wastes hours and sometimes days but until now, there was no alternative.

No more… With a Cinedeck, instead of facing time-consuming and costly work to make even the simplest correction to a file, insert edit gives you all of the tools you need to easily change specific audio video and closed caption essence in your flat file. The process is simple, load the target file in a Cinedeck channel and using standard timecode based in and out points, selectively replace the problem sections. This is directly from your non-linear editor or channel-to-channel on the Cinedeck.

 

Insert Baseband Mode – Total Confidence Recording

A critical additional feature of Cinedeck’s Insert Baseband mode is full playback access to the recording file.

High-end VTRs provide a layer of assurance with their confidence record mode, the ability to display an off-tape playback signal while recording.  During insert recordings on a Cinedeck, Total Confidence Record allows you to shuttle, play and scrub, any portion of a file on any player while still recording.  The recording file can be loaded into another Cinedeck channel that provides SDI to displays as well as files can be loaded into software players such as QuickTime or VLC.  This means that while recording, you can check and double check, any part of a file, anytime from anywhere, making the QC process much more efficient.

 

Insert Baseband Mode – Digital Cut/Print to Tape

Because the Cinedeck is the ultimate deck replacement, you can also create your master files, directly from a non-linear editor, using the same procedure as recording to tape.  The Cinedeck masquerades as a Sony SRW-5500 so the user sets things up on the editor as they normally would for a recording to tape while on the Cinedeck, the appropriate codec, wrapper and a file destination are selected.

The typical steps:

• Edit a 1 hour show
• Complete all required effects renders, etc.
• Digital Cut (record) to file (instead of tape) via Cinedeck to codec of choice (ProRes, DNxHD, etc.)

If you use insert mode for the Digital Cut, you can benefit from Cinedeck’s full confidence recording and when the NLE player has an issue, you can simply stop and pick up where you left off instead of starting again at the beginning. Of course, after the Digital Cut is complete, you can always use insert mode again to make any quick changes or fixes that come up. This functionality is available for editing platforms such as Media Composer, ProTools, Final Cut, Premiere and Flame.

 

Insert Edit – Compatibility

Cinedeck’s insert edit currently supports Apple ProRes, Avid DNxHD, AVC-Intra, XDCAM-HD and JPEG 2000. The content can be contained in MOV (QuickTime), MXF OpAtom or MXF Op1A wrappers and the files can originate from anywhere. Files might come from Final Cut, Media Composer, Premiere or any number of other production systems but of course, Cinedeck generated files can be edited as well. Also, insert edit functions across all of the standard resolution and frame rates so you can insert new content into your flat SD, HD, or 4K files.

 

Insert Edit – Virtual Mastering Media (VMM)

Cinedeck VMM are pre-striped or “black files” that are analogous to blacked tape in that you create a file with format, codec, timecode, up to 32 audio tracks, etc. and then, Cinedeck’s insert editing is used to place video and or audio content into the file, anywhere and anytime. As with tape, you can have pre-blacked-files saved on a disk (a virtual shelf of sorts) and simply copy one to your workspace, so you save time no matter what. Unlike tape, instead of real-time, blacked files are created as fast as your system can write the file.

And with VMM, done is DONE ~ No render, No export – You have a closed flat file that can be played anywhere.

 

Live-to-File

Cinedeck’s “Pause & Seek” mode is the closest to what many know from tape as assemble recording or assemble editing, with the unique addition that with Pause & Seek, multiple record channels can be simultaneously controlled. Two examples for this are building a show master while keeping a few ISO channels in sync with the master or creating multiple masters with different codec and wrapper combinations so for example, two ProRes masters, a DNxHD master and an AVC-Intra master.

Operation in this mode is straightforward:

• Put the channel(s) in gang record mode and start recording
• Pause the recording(s)
• Put the channels into gang play and cue one of the channels to a starting point in the recorded content
• Take the channel(s) out of pause to continue the recording(s)
• After multiple pause and record events, stop is pressed to finally close the file(s) and recording is complete.

As with all Cinedeck created files, you end up with a standard finished file, no export, render or consolidate.

For Live-to-File sessions not requiring simultaneous multiple file creation, Cinedeck’s file-based insert editing into Virtual Mastering Media can be more desirable.

Pause & Seek does not have a pre-roll. You can easily count down to the start but insert can pre-roll like tape, which will be familiar to studio personnel. In addition, when using pre-striped VMM, you can start and stop your work anytime and place content anywhere, allowing the show build to go out of order. Pause & Seek requires the deck to stay on, the file to remain open and the build is strictly start to finish. Using Virtual Mastering Media means a production can be built over many hours, days or weeks. Lastly, because insert edit offers Total Confidence Recording, quality control can occur during recording, assuring fast and error free show deliverables.

 

32 tracks of Audio & Pro Tools Support

Instead of dealing with tape or transferring finished audio to your video editors, using Pro Tools’ transport controls, your sound team can directly punch in and out of video using Cinedeck’s insert record to edit master files in real-time Or insert the mix with a standard 3-point edit. Whichever way you work, there is no need to re-encode from tape or wait for other departments to finalize your deliverables.

Additionally, many recording systems are limited to just a few audio tracks, sometimes just 4, sometimes 8 and SDI only carries 16 channels but files can support more.

Using Cinedeck’s insert edit, it is possible to work with up to 32 channels of audio in your deliverable files. You can create blank VMM prepared to take those 32 tracks or do a Digital Cut and simultaneously create the space for the added channels, reducing or eliminating the mayhem of multiple deliverables, just to fulfill the complete track count.

 

The Cinedeck ZX platform is designed for customization and you can add any of the optional hardware and accessories to create a deck that matches your workflows exactly. If your particular needs are not met with the current features and hardware options, contact Cinedeck to discuss the requirements, the Cinedeck development team is always looking for a challenge.

 

OPTIONAL CODECS:

Several additional codecs are available to Cinedeck ZX purchasers.  These codecs incur an additional cost because the patent holder or SDK creator charges license fees.

– JPEG 2000

Cinedeck ZX optionally supports several JPEG 2000 profiles including mathematically lossless recording. Additional profiles are possible. Contact Cinedeck Support for details.
• ZX45 supports up to four channels of JPEG 2000 recording at up to 60P
• ZX40 supports up to four channels of JPEG 2000 recording at up to 30P
• ZX20 supports up to two channels of JPEG 2000 recording at up to 30P

– CineForm

CineForm is an efficient, transparent and processor friendly wavelet based codec, designed for both acquisition and mezzanine use within a post-production environment. CineForm was recently standardized by SMPTE as VC-5.

 

OPTIONAL HARDWARE:

Cinedeck ZX purchasers can select from multiple hardware options.  Some can be combined but in all cases, the hardware needs to be installed at the factory.

– Additional SDI 4-channel SD/HD or 1-channel 4K/UHD out

In SD and HD modes, Cinedeck ZX comes standard with a single SDI output for each input channel. When ZX is in 4K mode, all four SDI out connections are used for the 4K output. This hardware addition adds a secondary SD / HD SDI video output for each input (also available in 4K / UHD mode).

– 4K/UHD out on HDMI

This hardware option adds a separate 4K / UHD HDMI output to any ZX model.

– Master Timecode / IRIG / Jam Sync

Cinedeck ZX comes standard with a LTC timecode input for each channel pair. With the Master Timecode option, ZX can accept a single external LTC signal for all channels. This option also provides for Jam Sync, the ability to briefly apply a running timecode source to a deck, have it remembered and used as the record timecode. Additionally, for scientific and military users, an externally generated IRIG-B timecode source can also be used with this option.

– ZX Touch Screen

Particularly to support mobile environments, ZX can be outfitted with an optional touch screen in the left panel. This local touch display provides full access for setup and operation, a preview of the video input / output of all channels as well as the full set of analysis tools such as video waveform display. This eliminates the need for an external user interface display, mouse and keyboard but if desired, a second display can always be connected. Connecting a USB keyboard and mouse is still suggested as they can make setup and operation easier.

– ZX Jog/Shuttle Control Panel

Also, primarily to support mobile environments, ZX can be outfitted with an optional Jog/Shuttle control panel, mounted on the right front panel. This provides tactile, tape machine like control for playback and recording.

 

RECORDING MEDIA:

– Solid State Drives (SSDs)

Cinedeck ZX can hold multiple hot-swappable SSD drives for local recording and playback. The SSD disks are installed into the removable #15001, Dual SATA – Dual Drive carriers or that plug into #15005 Dual SATA chassis mount frames.

  • ZX20 has two frames and ships with two carriers to hold a maximum of four SSDs
  • ZX 40 and ZX45 have four frames and ship with four carriers for a maximum of eight SSDs

Additional frames and carriers can be purchased separately.

Cinedeck currently only supports Samsung SSD Drives for internal recording, specifically any size of the 840 and 850 series:

  • Samsung EVO series (best price/capacity)
  • Samsung 840 Pro series (better performance specifications with excellent price/capacity)
  • Samsung 850 Pro series (highest performance, longest warranty)

Samsung disks can be purchased with a Cinedeck ZX product through our distributor AudioVideo BrandBuilder Corp. (AVBB), or customers and end users can purchase SSDs from their preferred IT reseller.  Please consult with your AVBB Sales Representative.

 

ACCESSORIES:

– Frames and Carriers

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Carrier 15001 Dual Drive Carrier Only
15001 Dual SATA – Dual Drive Carrier: 2 1/2″ Dual Drive Carrier (carrier only)
Carrier 15005 Dual SATA Frame Only
15005 Dual SATA Frame Only: 3 1/2″ Chassis Mount Frame with Dual SATA Ports (frame only). Twist Lock
Carrier 15004: Dual SATA Frame and Carrier
15004 Dual SATA Frame and Carrier: 3 1/2″ Chassis Mount Frame with Dual SATA Ports and Dual 2 1/2″ Drive Carrier. Twist Lock
Carrier 15003 Dock with Dual SATA Ports
15003 DP25 Rugged Dock with Dual SATA Ports, latched ruggedized Desktop Drive Dock: Dual SATA Ports and 2 1/2″ Dual Drive Carrier. Twist Lock. Includes wall mount power supply, 2 ESATA cables.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

The 15001 carrier fits all current Cinedecks.

All of the frames are designed to fit a standard 3.5” PC chassis opening and connect to computer workstations via SATA. The desktop dock connects to eSATA at the workstation and uses an external power supply.
The frames are available with twist lock (shown) or key lock.

– ZX Rackmount Kit

ZX can be installed on a standard rack mount shelf or be outfitted with standard fixed or slide rails. The ZX rackmount kit from Cinedeck consists of sliding rails. The ZX front handles are not included with the rack kit, they ship with each deck.

Warranty & Support:

Cinedeck warrants your unit against defects in materials or workmanship as follows:

For a period of ONE year from the original date of purchase and/or through the end of an extended warranty plan, Cinedeck will repair or replace the unit, at our option, without charge for parts or labor.  After the warranty period, you must pay for all parts and labor charges.

Cinedeck Warranty Plans include:

  • All parts and labor.
  • All major software updates released during the active period of the warranty including new standard features and codecs.
  • All official maintenance releases during the active period of the warranty.
  • Customer support by phone or email.
  • On-site technical support depending on geographic location.

To activate the Cinedeck Warranty Plan, you must register each Cinedeck unit separately on the Product Registration page of the Cinedeck website.

 

In case you need technical support and an AVBB or Cinedeck representative is unable to be on location, a support representative will log into your machine to diagnose the issue and suggest steps to solve your technical issue. This remote connection requires the use of VNC applications such as TeamViewer. It is the responsibility of the customer to arrange appropriate network access.

To obtain technical support service, start by filling out the AVBB-Cinedeck Support form.   Make sure to have your Support Contract Number, Serial Number, and Software Version for the unit ready.

 


The limited warranty is extended only to the original purchaser. It does not cover damage or failure caused by or attributable to Acts of God, abuse, misuse, improper or abnormal usage, faulty installation, improper maintenance, lightning, or other incidences of excessive voltage, or any repairs or tampering by other than a Cinedeck-authorized repair facility.  It does not cover replacement of batteries or other consumable parts, transportation costs, or damage in transit.  This warranty will become void if the serial number or model number identification has been wholly or partially removed or erased.  Repair or replacement under the terms of this warranty do not extend the terms of this warranty.  This warranty cannot be modified by any agent of Cinedeck unless in writing and signed by an officer of Cine Design Group LLC.
Should this product prove defective in workmanship or material, the consumer’s sole remedies shall be such repair or replacement as provided by the terms of this warranty.  Under no circumstances shall Cinedeck be liable for any loss or damage, direct, consequential, or incidental, arising out of the use of or inability to use this product.  Some US states do not allow limitations on how long an implied warranty lasts or the exclusions or limitations of incidental or consequential damages, so the above limitations or exclusions may not apply to you.  This warranty gives you specific legal rights.  You may also have other rights which vary from state to state.