Chapter 2. Connecting the DMediaPro DM3 Board to VBOB

This chapter shows you how to connect the DM3 board to the SGI video breakout box (VBOB) for all high-definition video, standard-definition video, and genlock input/output (I/O). The DMediaPro/VBOB configuration allows you to transmit and receive uncompressed high-definition (HD) video and standard-definition (SD) video without using two separate connections.


Note: For detailed information on VBOB, see the SGI Video Breakout Box Owner's Guide.

The following topics are covered:

Getting Started

Before you connect any cables, follow these steps:

  1. Power down the SGI host system.

  2. Be sure the VBOB power switch at the back of the chassis is in the Off (0) position.

  3. Connect one end of the VBOB power cord to the VBOB power plug and the other end of the cord to your AC power source.

Connecting the DMediaPro DM3 Board to VBOB

To connect the DM3 board to VBOB, follow these steps:

  1. Connect one end of the LVDS A cable (black cable with a white connector on each end) to the DM3 board's LVDS A connector. Connect the other end of this cable to the VBOB LVDS A connector, as shown in Figure 2-1.

  2. Connect one end of the LVDS B cable (black cable with black connector on each end) to the DM3 board's LVDS B connector. Connect the other end of this cable to the VBOB LVDS B connector.


    Note: The length of the LVDS cables may affect/restrict hardware positions.


    Figure 2-1. Connecting the DMediaPro DM3 Board to VBOB

    Connecting the DMediaPro DM3 Board to VBOB

Setting Up VBOB for High-definition/Standard-definition I/O

After you complete the connections shown in Figure 2-1, you can connect the required cables from the VBOB HD in/out or SD in/out connector(s) to the desired high-definition or standard-definition video device(s). If you are genlocking the serial digital output to an external source, connect an analog sync source to the VBOB HD genlock in or SD genlock in connector (see Figure 2-2).

If you are not using high-definition or standard-definition genlock loop-throughs, attach a 75 ohm terminator to the appropriate connectors.

Figure 2-2. Connecting the I/O Cables to VBOB

Connecting the 
I/O Cables to VBOB

After you connect the required cables, follow these steps:

  1. Turn the VBOB power switch to the On (1) position.

  2. Power on the SGI host system.

  3. Boot the operating system.

Precautions on SGI Onyx and Origin Systems

To ensure proper airflow and cooling of your system, perform the following activities:

  • Secure all cables to the sides of the rack; the cables should not hang freely from the VBOB or any modules.

  • Keep the rack doors closed during normal operation.