Panasonic version

VariVue
TBC Remote Control Panel
Installation Instructions

General
The VariVue remote control panel provides the essential proc amp controls for Panasonic VTRs with internal time base correctors. Many Panasonic VTR models accept the VariVue control panel, including the M II and DVCPro series, plus several other VTR types.

The VariVue control panel is available in both desktop and rack-mount versions. The VariVue control panel includes four knobs for direct control of the Video Level, Set-up, Chroma Level, and Hue. Each control has an "IN/OUT" ("var/unity" on some models) switch to allow selective adjustment of each parameter. Additionally, trimmer controls on the rear of the unit provide H Sync and SubCarrier adjustments. A single 15-conductor cable connects the control panel to the VTR.

While the VariVue fully controls the composite video output parameters, not all of the component video output parameters are controlled for every VTR. The internal electronics of the Panasonic AJ-D640/650 decks allow only the luminance signal to be controlled, but not the chrominance signals. While some of the early AJ-D750 VTRs worked in the same manner, all later AJ-D750's allow the luminance and chrominance signals to be controlled by VariVue.

Applicable Machines
The VariVue control panel works with many of Panasonic's high-end VTRs, including the M II series, the AG-DS540/550, AJ-D640/650, AJ-D750, and AG-DS840/850 machines. Most of the Panasonic VTR's with internal TBCs will accept remote proc amp control panels such as VariVue. The presence of a 15-pin TBC remote connector on the VTR's rear chassis confirms compatibility.

Cabling
Because the TBC Remote connector has power on its pins, cabling should be done only with the VTR power switch turned off. The VariVue control panel plugs into the 15-pin "Remote" connector located on the rear panel of the VTR. Once the VariVue control panel is securely cabled to the VTR, power may be safely turned on.

Many VTR connectors use metric thread (either 2.6mm x 0.45mm or 3mm x 0.5mm) rather than the more familiar #4-40 SAE thread. VueTech has replacement jack screws that are available for the asking. Replacement is a simple matter of backing out the standard jack screws from the molded cable end and screwing in the metric thread jack screws. Fax or call Tech Service for these screws; there is no additional charge for these screws. 2.6mm x 0.45 mm screws are colored red on the caps and 3mm x 0.5mm screws are colored blue on the caps to help distinguish them from SAE-threaded screws.

Adjustments
Before the VariVue control panel can be used with some decks (e.g.- AJ-D640/650) , the ENCODER SELect System Menu item must be set to "0001" or "ON". This causes the deck to use the external controls rather than the internal ones.

Each VariVue control is clearly labeled as to its function. Each control may be adjusted over a wide, though not unlimited, range. Each control may be switched IN/var and OUT/unity of action by using the toggle switch located immediately above the control. The OUT/unity position sets that particular function to unity gain (as aligned within the VTR). The IN/var position enables the associated VariVue control.

H Sync and SubCarrier Adjustments
Small clearance holes provide access to the Sync and SC adjustments. For the desktop VariVue, these holes are at the rear of the control panel. For the rack-mount VariVue, these holes are on the front of the control panel, just right of the main control knobs and switches. The SC fine adjustment is labeled "fine". The SC coarse adjustment is labeled "C". The coarse control is actually a four-position switch that selects one of four phase quadrants. The fine control gives a full range of adjustment within the selected subcarrier phase quadrant. These adjustments are best made using a waveform monitor and vectorscope and good video alignment practice. Consult the VTR operator's manual for the correct procedure.

Difficulties and Comments
Please contact our technical service department at 831 372 6192 should you have any difficulties or comments to pass along.

VueTech
PO Box 2617
Grass Valley CA 95945

Phone: 530 477 2905
Fax: 530 272 1528
Website: www.vuetech.com

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