Welcome
Thank you for purchasing Videohub! This manual contains all the information needed to install your Videohub. For the latest updates and software, visit www.blackmagicdesign.com.
CEO, Blackmagic Design
Grant Petty
Introducing Blackmagic Videohub
Blackmagic Videohub is a family of routing solutions designed for studios and facilities of all sizes. All models can be connected to an Ethernet network for external control via hardware panels or software.
Blackmagic Videohub 12G Models
Models like the 10x10, 20x20, and 40x40 12G are 12G-SDI routers supporting Ultra HD 2160p60. They can be desk-mounted or rack-mounted.
Universal Videohub Routers
Universal Videohub 288 and 72 are modular 3G-SDI routers for larger facilities. They feature rack frames that can be populated with various SDI or optical fiber interface cards, crosspoint cards, and power supplies.
Universal Videohub 288
A large, modular router with a 72-card rack frame. Supports 288 SDI inputs, 288 SDI outputs, and 288 RS-422 deck control ports. Requires separate purchase and installation of interface cards and power supplies.
Universal Videohub 72
A medium-sized modular router with an 18-card rack frame. Supports 72 SDI inputs, 72 SDI outputs, and 72 RS-422 deck control ports. Requires separate purchase and installation of interface cards, crosspoint card, and power supplies.
Smart Videohub CleanSwitch 12x12
A 6G-SDI rack-mountable router with a built-in resynchronizer on each input for clean switching to monitors or air. It locks to the reference input or Input 1 if no reference is connected.
Videohub Hardware Control Panels
External panels for controlling Videohub routers. They support Power over Ethernet (PoE) and can control any Videohub on the same network.
Videohub Master Control Pro
A 1 RU control panel with 36 backlit pushbuttons, LCD, and scroll wheel for computer-free switching. Supports all sources and destinations, and RS-422 deck control. Features macro buttons for up to 16 simultaneous switches.
Videohub Smart Control Pro
A 1 RU control panel with 48 backlit pushbuttons. Can be configured as a cut-bus controller (switching between 48 sources for a single destination) or an XY controller (managing multiple destinations).
Getting Started
Getting started involves connecting power and video sources/destinations.
Connecting Power
Connect power via a standard IEC power connector. For 12G models, the LCD prompts for language selection upon first power-up.
Connecting Video
- Connect video sources to the Videohub's SDI inputs.
- Connect destination equipment to the Videohub's SDI outputs.
SDI connections auto-detect supported video formats.
Controlling your Videohub
Control is possible via the built-in panel, USB, Ethernet (hardware panels or software).
Switching a Route using the Built in Control Panel
1. Press the OUT button to select a destination output.
2. Press a numbered pushbutton or use the search dial to select the destination.
3. Press the IN button to select a source input.
4. Press a numbered pushbutton or use the search dial to select the source.
5. Press TAKE to confirm the route. Press CLEAR to cancel.
Shortcut Buttons
Labeled buttons above the numbered buttons allow for more specific selections using Videohub's filtering system. These buttons require inputs and outputs to be labeled using the Blackmagic Videohub Setup software.
Using the Shortcut Buttons
1. Press OUT to select a destination.
2. Press a shortcut button (e.g., DECK) to filter destinations.
3. Select the specific destination using numbered buttons or the search dial.
4. Press IN to select a source.
5. Press a shortcut button (e.g., CAM) to filter sources.
6. Select the specific source using numbered buttons or the search dial.
7. Press TAKE to confirm.
Locking and Unlocking Routes
Press the LOCK button to lock the currently selected output. A lock indicator appears on the LCD. Press LOCK again to unlock. Holding the OUT button for 2 seconds also toggles the lock status.
Connecting Videohub to a Network
All Videohub models have an Ethernet port for network connectivity, enabling control via software or external hardware panels. Connect via a standard RJ45 Ethernet cable to a network switch or computer.
Configuring Network Settings
Network settings (IP address, subnet, gateway) can be configured using the unit's built-in control panel and LCD, or via Blackmagic Videohub Setup software when connected via USB.
Universal Videohub Routers
Universal Videohub 288
A large, modular 3 RU router frame supporting up to 72 interface cards. When fully populated with two crosspoint cards, power cards, interface cards, and deck control cables, it provides 288 SDI inputs, 288 SDI outputs, and 288 RS-422 deck control ports. Requires separate purchase of components.
Building Universal Videohub 288
Requires 25 RU of space. Components include Crosspoint Cards (for switching), Power Supplies (redundant options available), and Interface Cards (SDI or Optical). Static discharge precautions are necessary when handling components.
Universal Videohub 288 Crosspoint Card
Contains the crosspoint processor for video and deck control switching. Features Ethernet, USB, and serial ports, plus a Reference input. Status LEDs indicate Alarm, Power Overload, and Reference In status.
Power Supply
Uses a 1 RU chassis containing a universal power supply. Can be powered by a single supply or two for redundancy.
Status LEDs
Alarm LED: Indicates errors. Off for normal, On for error, flashes for specific issues (e.g., fan failure).
Power Overload LED: Indicates power status. Off/Slowly blinking for normal, On for overload.
Ref In LED: Indicates reference signal status. Off for no reference, On for connected.
Universal Videohub 72
A medium-sized modular 5 RU router frame supporting up to 18 interface cards. Provides 72 SDI inputs, 72 SDI outputs, and 72 RS-422 deck control ports. Requires separate purchase of components.
Building Universal Videohub 72
Requires 9 RU of space. Components include Crosspoint Card, Power Card, Interface Cards, and Power Supplies (up to three 150W bricks for redundancy).
Universal Videohub 72 Crosspoint Card
Similar to the 288 model, it houses the crosspoint processor and control ports. Features status LEDs for Alarm, Power Overload, and Reference In.
Installing Interface Cards
SDI or Optical Interface cards are installed into PCI slots on the motherboard. They are hot-swappable and become active immediately.
Installing a Universal Videohub Power Supply
Power supplies consist of a power card and a 1 RU chassis. Redundant power supplies can be installed. Standard IEC cords are required.
SDI Interface Card
These cards provide 4 SDI inputs and 4 SDI outputs, supporting auto-detection of SD, HD, and 3G-SDI formats. They also include a connector for a Universal Videohub Deck Control Cable. Both BNC and Optical (SFP) versions are available.
Universal Videohub Interface Cards
Details the physical appearance and connectors for Universal Videohub SDI and Optical Interface Cards.
Smart Videohub CleanSwitch 12x12
This 6G-SDI router features resynchronization on all inputs for glitch-free switching. It can output sources directly to air if they share the same resolution and frame rate. It locks to the reference input or Input 1 if no reference is present. The video format of the reference signal and all inputs must be identical for synchronized switching.
Videohub Hardware Control Panels
External panels for controlling Videohub routers over Ethernet. Many support Power over Ethernet (PoE).
Videohub Master Control Pro
A 1 RU panel with 36 backlit pushbuttons, LCD, and scroll wheel. Allows computer-free switching of sources and destinations, including RS-422 deck control. Features customizable macro buttons.
Videohub Smart Control Pro
A 1 RU panel with 48 backlit pushbuttons. Can be configured as a Cut-Bus controller (one destination, multiple sources) or an XY controller (multiple destinations, multiple sources). Macro buttons and Take button functionality are supported.
Configuring the Control Panel
Network settings are configured via USB-C connection.
Connecting to an Ethernet Network
Control panels connect to the network like any Videohub router, typically via a network switch. The second Ethernet port on some panels does not support PoE.
Control Panel Button Diagnostics
On power-up, buttons cycle through red, green, blue, white. The top-left button indicates network status: flashing pink (acquiring IP), flashing red (connecting to server), flashing yellow (incompatible software), solid white (connected).
About Routing Levels
For routers with RS-422 control, routing levels (SDI, SDI 422, 422) can be selected to filter sources and destinations based on their connection types.
How to Select Sources and Destinations
Methods include typing port numbers directly, using the scroll wheel to browse lists, or using customized buttons combined with the scroll wheel or numeric input for faster selection.
Using Macros
Macro buttons can be configured to perform up to 16 simultaneous crosspoint switches. Confirmation via the TAKE button is optional.
Using Videohub Smart Control Pro as a Cut-Bus Controller
When configured as Cut-Bus, select a source button; the video immediately connects to the pre-assigned destination. The TAKE button can be used for confirmation.
Using Videohub Smart Control Pro as an XY Controller
Select a gold destination button, then a white source button to make the connection. The TAKE button can be used for confirmation.
Locking and Unlocking Routes
Press and hold a destination button until a lock icon appears to lock it. Press and hold again to unlock. Locked destinations prevent accidental route changes.
Labeling Pushbuttons
Removable pushbuttons on control panels allow for custom labels. A PDF template is provided with the software installer.
Blackmagic MultiView 16
A 1 RU SDI multi-viewer displaying up to 16 SDI signals on a single monitor. Supports Ultra HD, HD, and SD formats. Features loop outputs, multiple SDI outputs, and an HDMI output. Can be controlled via its built-in panel or remotely via Ethernet.
Using the Control Panel
The control panel includes an LCD, SRC, VIEW, SOLO, SET, and MENU buttons for navigating settings, selecting sources, and choosing layouts. Number buttons are used for input/view selection.
GPI and Tally Interface
An 8-input/8-output interface for multi-camera productions. GPIs send commands to Videohub via Ethernet, and GPOs send tally signals. Configuration is done via Blackmagic Videohub Setup.
Blackmagic Videohub Software
Includes three applications for configuring and controlling Videohub products:
- Blackmagic Videohub Setup: For changing settings, configuring Videohub, and updating firmware.
- Blackmagic Videohub Hardware Panel Setup: For configuring Master Control Pro and Smart Control Pro panels.
- Blackmagic Videohub Control: A software control panel for remote operation via USB or Ethernet.
Blackmagic Videohub Setup
Labeling Inputs and Outputs
Allows users to assign custom names to inputs and outputs for easier identification and filtering. Labels can be saved and loaded as sets.
Setting Outputs to Cut Bus Mode
Outputs set to cut bus mode change routes instantly upon source selection, without requiring a TAKE button press.
Creating Macros
Allows users to assign multiple routing actions to a single macro button. These can be executed simultaneously or confirmed with a TAKE button.
Button Mapping
Enables customization of shortcut button labels on the control panel to match input/output labels for efficient filtering.
Setup Settings
Allows naming the Videohub for network identification, changing LCD language, and checking software version. Video monitoring can be enabled to preview sources on the LCD.
Updating your Videohub
Firmware updates are performed via USB connection using the Videohub Setup utility. Do not unplug the unit during updates.
Blackmagic Videohub Control
Provides an intuitive, icon-driven interface for remote control. Users can select Videohubs, add/edit pushbuttons, view and switch routes, and resize the interface.
Selecting a Videohub
Launch the software, click the settings gear icon, and choose 'select Videohub' to connect to a specific unit on the network.
Adding Pushbuttons
Users can add custom source or destination pushbuttons, setting their SDI connection, deck control, and icon.
Viewing Routes
Pressing a destination button illuminates the corresponding source button, showing the current connection.
Switching Routes
Select a new source pushbutton to change the route to a destination. The previous source button is deselected.
Resizing the Interface
The interface can be resized by dragging window edges or corners to fit different screen sizes.
Blackmagic Videohub Control at a Glance
Details the components of the software interface: Title Bar, Sources Area, Destinations Area, Search, Scrollbars, Divider Bar, Settings Menu, and Pushbutton View/List View options.
Settings Menu
Options include selecting a Videohub, saving/loading layouts, editing buttons, and resetting all settings.
Edit Buttons
Allows adding, editing, locking/unlocking, clearing, and removing pushbuttons. Changes are confirmed by clicking 'Done'.
Locking and Unlocking Routes
Destinations can be locked by double-tapping the pushbutton (yellow padlock icon) to prevent accidental changes. Remotely locked destinations show a black padlock icon.
Serial Control Settings
For RS-422 serial control, configure the 'Leitch protocol' as 'client' or 'server'.
Touchscreen Computers
Pushbutton View is optimized for touchscreens, offering fast connection switching. Configuration is recommended with a mouse due to touchscreen accuracy limitations.
Apple iPad
The Videohub Pushbutton controller interface is available for iPad, offering portable control over Wi-Fi or cellular. Up to 40 sources and 8 destinations can be displayed per screen.
Controlling Blackmagic MultiView 16
Blackmagic MultiView 16 can be controlled using Videohub Control software. Ensure both devices have the latest software and are connected via Ethernet. Select the MultiView 16 from the 'select a Videohub' list.
Configuring Network Settings on Blackmagic MultiView 16
Network settings are configured via the unit's integrated control panel and LCD, allowing for DHCP or static IP assignment.
Videohub Hardware Panel Setup
This utility configures hardware features of Videohub control panels.
Network Settings
Control panels require an IP address for network communication. DHCP or Static IP can be used. Network settings can be configured via USB. Manual addition of devices by IP address is also supported.
Configuring Videohub Master Control Pro
Allows adjustment of backlight brightness and creation of button labels (21 buttons) that can also be configured as macro buttons. Labels should match router port labels.
Configuring Videohub Smart Control Pro
Allows configuration as a Cut-Bus or XY controller. The number of destinations can be adjusted, affecting the number of available source buttons. Macro functionality and Take button options are available.
Configuring GPIs
GPIs can be configured for crosspoint switching. Options include 'Latch Video' (holds the selection) and 'Momentary Hold Video' (reverts when control is released).
Configuring Tally
GPOs can be configured to send tally signals based on crosspoint conditions. 'GPO Match' can replicate GPI configurations. Multiple GPI and Tally Interfaces can be daisy-chained via Ethernet.
Developer Information
Blackmagic Videohub Ethernet Protocol v2.3
A text-based protocol accessed via TCP port 9990. It supports integrated and server-based Videohub Servers. The protocol defines blocks for device information, labels, routing, lock status, and hardware status. Clients can request changes and status updates.
Videohub RS-422 Protocol
Allows control of Videohub models as RS-422 slave devices. Implements Leitch Serial Pass-Through Protocol. Configured as 9600 N81, line-oriented with commands terminated by carriage return. Supports global commands (status reporting, reset) and immediate/salvo commands for route changes.
Saving and Loading Labels with Telnet in Mac OS
Instructions for using the Terminal application to save and load input/output labels by connecting to the Videohub's IP address on port 9990.
Saving and Loading Labels with Telnet in Windows
Instructions for using PuTTY (a free telnet client) to save and load labels via Telnet connection.
Replacing a fan in Universal Videohub
Step-by-step guide for replacing fans in Universal Videohub units, noting that fans can be replaced while the unit is powered on.
Help
For assistance, consult the Blackmagic Design online support pages at www.blackmagicdesign.com/support for the latest manuals, software, and support notes. The Blackmagic Design Forum is also a valuable resource.
Regulatory Notices
Information on disposal of waste electrical and electronic equipment within the European Union. FCC compliance statements for Class A digital devices. ISED Canada compliance statements.
Safety Information
Guidelines for protection against electric shock, proper ventilation, and use in tropical locations. Notes on SFP modules, altitude limits, and California Proposition 65 warnings.
Warranty
Details the limited warranty for Videohub routers (36 months) and control panels (12 months). Outlines terms for repair or replacement, customer responsibilities for shipping, and conditions under which the warranty does not apply. Disclaimers for implied warranties and liability for damages are included.
Blackmagic Design
P65Warnings.ca.gov
