PHABRIX

Features

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The PHABRIX SxE represents the most comprehensive hand held instrument available in the world today. The PHABRIX SxE has the full functions of the PHABRIX SxA plus physical layer analysis. Displaying eye and jitter diagrams with optional filter selection for timing and alignment measurements on its large 4.3 inch best of class 16:9 colour TFT screen, it is unique in offering laboratory level testing. Cursors and histogram functions allow detailed measurements to be made. The ability of the SxE to produce eye patterns from a 3G signal is particularly significant for those users requiring a solution to testing high end products in the 3G arena. Jitter too is one of the most important issues in the design and operation of high-speed serial links and the SxE jitter tools can be applied from SD-SDI, HD-SDI to 3G-SDI. These comprehensive features propel the SxE into the domain of much more expensive bench bound products and has resulted in it achieving many technological awards. Released in 2009 it has been installed in facilities world-wide and has continued to benefit from PHABRIX's lifetime support for software upgrades making it one of the most stable cool running instruments available.

Features

The PHABRIX SxE provides the ultimate in multi-format handheld SDI test signal generation, analysis and monitoring with the added advantage of automated eye and jitter to SMPTE requirement.

 

The PHABRIX SxE includes 3G-SDI , HD-SDI and SD-SDI test signal generation and analysis. technologically advanced the instrument has provided engineers with sophisticated physical layer measurement within the convenience of a hand held platform. Since its release in 2009, the PHABRIX SxE has become a mainstrean in broadcasting with multiple units in use everyday in many of the world's largest broadcasters. The reliability and feature rich toolset of the SxE remains unsurpassed at a price point that allows mutliple units to be purchased whereas only one was typically reserved for the chief engineer.

The PHABRIX SxE instrument combines a generator, analyzer and monitor within a rugged aluminium housing. Comprehensive signal generation may be locked to either bi-level, tri-level, or SDI sources.

Embedded audio features allow the generation and monitoring of up to 4 groups (16 mono channels) of audio.

With its large 4.3 inch best-in-class TFT screen, images are crisp and clear with easily selected functions made possible through applied ergonomics and colour coded menu selection.

On-board Ethernet networking enables browser based remote control and monitoring. Internal storage for up to 2GB of test patterns and acquired data provide enhanced user flexibility.

The PHABRIX SxE is powered by an internal lithium polymer rechargeable power pack with a flexible 5V DC external input.

A range of software options are available for specific user enhancement.

Designed for ease of use and portability, the PHABRIX SxE is the most comprehensive solution to SDI generation, analysis and monitoring on the market today.

 

Broadcast applications

With portability in mind, the Sx range has been successful in many broadcast sectors.

• Broadcast manufacturing
• Studios
• Outside broadcast facilities, flyaways and trucks
• Production monitoring
• Control room
• Transmission remote control
• 3D application
• Telcos

The PHABRIX SxE has been designed as a cost effective investment for test and measurement with the quality, reliability and reputation established by the PHABRIX brand internationally. PHABRIX products can be found in many of the world’s top broadcasters and R&D establishments where laboratory accuracy and functionality are critical.

Easy to use

The first thing that becomes clear when introduced to the PHABRIX SxE is how easy it is to use. The working interface offers the simplest presentation of control and data hiding the complexity behind button presses which are never more than two layers from the top level menu.

As a generator, analyzer and monitoring solution, the PHABRIX SxE displays the ‘status window’ on boot up which presents all of the primary instruments and logging features in one easy to view window. It is also the ‘top level menu’.

Toolsets are colour identified throughout the instrument so at a glance to the left of the screen the vertical coloured strip presents the tool selected,  i.e. Green for generator. The 8 control buttons underneath the screen correspond to the menu boxes above which again are colour identified for easy navigation throughout the instrument.

The onboard speaker or stereo headphone socket can verify audio on the signal and be set to make an audible tone indicating logged events.

The PHABRIX difference

Integral to the success of the PHABRIX instruments has been the ability of each to generate at one standard and analyze at another all within a single hand held device. The wide variety of SMPTE formats that can be generated and analyzed and the quality of signal source provided have established the Sx range as a ‘must have’ when diagnosing faults within the ever complex broadcast environment.

Over 32 static video test patterns are provided with additional bouncing box to check video signals haven’t frozen. Moving zone plate is also available across all standards. User defined patterns can be added at any time as DPX, YUV, TGA, BMP formats. Selecting standards couldn’t be easier with the Sx automatically filtering both standard, frame rate and colour space accordingly to the required selection. A simple drop down menu gives access to a range of test patterns. Idents can be added to the signal generated to identify the signal in multi monitor situations such as control rooms.

Analysis of the signal is equally highly focussed. A simple picture view can be selected and when in zoom mode, pixel for pixel accuracy allows the user to move around the video frame with ease checking for specific problems. Cursors can be activated which track through the instrument on a specific pixel in picture, waveform and optional SDI analysis mode.

Along with traditional toolsets such as waveform and vectorcope, the Sx provides sophisticated video checking of signal data such as CRC errors, EDH errors and active picture checksum as standard. For more sophisticated R&D analysis a separate full video frame SDI analysis option is available to view the stream in various modes.

With support for 16 channel embedded audio as standard,16 PPM meters are available to view in one screen simultaneously. Dolby E analysis and generation are additional audio enhancements.

Logging is an important feature which can be set in a variety of ways. The event log is available for download at any time with ample space for over 10,000 log events if required.
At any time a simple two second press of the thumb control will save images of the screen to disk for later analysis or for inclusion in commissioning reports.

Technology

The Sx uses ultra reliable Linux as its operating system providing a robust and stable core. Each of the Sx’s is assured up to date hardware and software development thanks to its FPGA design which can be simply updated at any time when connected via Ethernet to any open network. Feature enhancements are easily added to the instruments this way and our R&D regularly add requested features to the Sx’s in the field. Development is on going with the Sx platform and this results in new toolsets which can be added as options.

The Sx can be powered by A/C adapter if required or by integral lithium polymer battery which provides the Sx range with unmatched time of untethered use (1.5- 2hrs) between recharge.

Warranty

The Sx range benefits from a 2 year warranty once registered. Each Sx leaves our UK factory with its own unique list of quality controlled settings to ensure consistency and traceability. Calibration services are available.

Broadcast engineer's toolset

Acknowledged as one of the industry’s easiest to use interfaces, Sx instruments have been designed to fully implement the PHABRIX GUI.

Engineers can simply, and importantly swiftly control their T&M  instrument either through clever presets or user selectable configuration.

Each instrument is never more than a two button press away from the main menu.
In addition the Sx range of instruments can be further enhanced with a range of software options available on the platform. A simple software code will unlock these at any time.

• SDI analysis and anciallary packet analyzer
• Command scripts and print report
• Advanced formats
• Programmable moving zone plate
• Dolby E bitstream analyser
• Dolby E bitstream generator
• Ancillary status
• Enhanced remote control
• Advanced eye/jitter analysis
• Remote control
  

The Sx range can be controlled remotely using the FTP connection and any standard web browser. The simple user interface of the instrument is mirrored here to allow ease of use.

At any time the user can select, print and save any of the screen views be it video or instrument. Using the command scripts option a comprehensive print report can also be automatically generated with any personalized company logo.

The Sx is its own web server. By entering the unique IP address of the instrument into a standard web browser, communication can be established over the network. The screen displayed is an exact copy of the remote instrument itself so no new interface needs to be learnt. Each instrument can be controlled or remotely configured using a standard web browser.

The command scripts option allows the user to set the test parameters for each unit. Memories are easily saved and recalled for regular compliance testing procedures if required. Print reports can be activated which automatically create a html report page which can be downloaded from the instrument and printed for both internal and customer use.

The Sx can also be user defined and password protected if required.

 

Specification

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PHABRIX SxE Eye & Jitter Specifications

Monitor Details

Display resolution	480 x 272 pixels auto scaling
Display type	16:9 24 bit colour TFT
Display size	95 x 54 mm
Processing	All digital

Video

SDI	3G-SDI, HD-SDI SD-SDI
Outputs	1 x 75 Ohm BNC
Inputs	1 x 75 Ohm BNC
Genlock	Bi/Tri/SDI with cross lock
Adjustable timing	0 to 1 Frame
Text Ident	Yes with font, colour and point size
Logo ident	Yes
EDH	Yes (SD-SDI)

Video Test Signal

Resolution	10 bits
Static Test patterns	32+ including full frame
Moving Zone Plate	Yes
User defined	DPX,YUV,TGA,BMP
FORMATS	A full list of supported SMPTE formats for 3G, HD and SD can be supplied on request
Eye bit rates	3Gbps, 1.485Gbps, 270 Mbps
Jitter	SMPTE specification filters
Jitter thermometers	Alignment, Timing

Audio

Internal speaker	0.5 watts
Audio DAC	24 bit stereo
Headphone socket	3.5 mm with auto line out
Generator/Monitor	48 kHz 20-bit (SD-SDI) 24-bit (HD-SDI)
16 channel embedded audio	Yes
AES output	1 x 75 Ohm BNC
AES intput	1 x 75 Ohm BNC

Audio Test Signal

Fixed tones	17
Variable tones	1 Hz-24 Khz in 1Hz steps
Intermittent Tone	Yes
White noise generation	Yes
Audio levels variable	0 to -100dB in 1dB steps
Audio phase invert	Yes

General

Navigation panel	5 menu keys 8 custom select/program
Integral battery supply	Yes
Internal Storage	1GB (upgradable)
Remote control	Web browser interface
Ethernet/USB	Yes
Carry case	Included
AC power supply	Included
Security	Kensington lock fitting
Size	H:92mm W: 225mm D: 42mm
Weight	0.7kgs

Ordering Information

PHABRIX SxE

Code: PHSXE

Warranty

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enquiry

Warranty

Up to 2 free years of product and telepone support. Register now

All PHABRIX products are covered with one year telephone and product support which can be increased to a free second year by registering online.The only items not covered by the warranty are screen faults and battery replacement.

Under the terms of our warranty a customer will be able to claim under the warranty for any defect in material and workmanship for a period of 1 years from the date of original delivery. The customer must register the purchase of a Product within 3 months from the date of purchase to obtain an additional one year warranty protection (total of two years) at the PHABRIX website www.phabrix.com or by returning by email or fax the enclosed warranty form shipped with each new product.

Under the terms of the warranty PHABRIX will supply replacement parts for those which prove defective and warranty labour if the defective equipment is returned freight prepaid either to PHABRIX in the UK or to an approved factory service depot.

This warranty does not include responsibility for any transportation or handling damage.

The warranty shall not apply if:

• PHABRIX finds that the Product or its component parts have been altered by unauthorised personnel;
• the customer installs, in the Product, parts not made or supplied by PHABRIX except such components specified by the PHABRIX; or
• if the Product was used or installed in a manner other than in accordance with the PHABRIX's instructions.

Warranty Return Policy

If the Product fails due to manufacturing defects, PHABRIX will either:

• repair the Product;
• replace the Product.

If the Product is deemed essential, PHABRIX shall, at its option, provide a loan Product(s). In the case of exchange, the defective Product shall be returned to the Supplier within fifteen (15) days of receipt of the replacement Product to the Supplier. In the case of a loan, the loaned Product must be returned to the Supplier within fifteen (15) days of receipt of the repaired Product from the Supplier. A completed loan form will be requested for this option.

If the loaned Product is not returned to the Supplier within this period, a Proforma Invoice will be issued by tPHABRIX. Once the Product has been returned a credit note will be created to cancel the Proforma Invoice.

Out of Warranty Repairs

The Supplier will perform out of warranty repairs in accordance with its published pricing schedule. All costs associated with shipping the Products to PHABRIX shall be borne by the customer, this includes freight, insurance as well as any and all brokerage fees.

Equipment Return Procedure

Before returning equipment to PHABRIX, the customer or distributor must first obtain a Return Authorisation (R.A.N.) number from PHABRIX. All costs associated with shipping the Products to the customer or distributor shall be borne by the customer this includes freight, insurance as well as any and all brokerage fees. All costs associated with the return of the Product to the customer will be borne by PHABRIX.

Warranty Service

Automatic product warranty will cover the first year from the date of invoice to the customer and end same date in the next calendar year. To extend the warranty for a further free year (providing two years in total) the product must be registered by the customer (not the distributor) on the warranty page at www.phabrix.com or in writing to PHABRIX Limited, Winchester Road, Burghclere, Newbury, Berkshire, RG20 9EQ + 44 (0) 1635 873030

Should the product develop a fault, the end user must confirm the fault is technical and not operator error by contacting PHABRIX or one of its international distributors.

If the product is deemed to be faulty from telephone support, the product must be returned for visual examination to confirm the fault either by the distributor or to PHABRIX UK. For international customers, you must approach your distributor contact fiorst in that country of sale.

If the customer has contacted the distributor then the distributor must then contact PHABRIX Limited to discuss whether the product should be replaced from stock or directly from PHABRIX.

If the product is faulty and cannot be repaired by the distributor, the distributor must obtain a RAN number by contacting PHABRIX UkK and include this form in the documentation sent back with the faulty product.

Product Sheet

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Simulation

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To experience the functionality and ergonomic simplicity of the PHABRIX Sx please download the small application which runs on a Windows PC. All downloads have been checked for viruses and are clean.

SxA Version 0.10.0085 (30th June 2011): Click here to download and run the setup file.

SxE Version 0.10.0085 (30th June 2011): Click here to download and run the setup file.

Both the SxA or SxE products may be installed. This application will check for updates on the internet at startup.

The simulator may now be remote controlled by a user application to allow testing without requiring Sx hardware.
Multiple Simulators can be run on a PC using different port numbers to allow testing of large systems.
(Use the -P Port# command line option to set port numbers for each instance)

Downloads

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Support

Sx Software & Manuals Releases

SxA/SxD/SxE system software

The software may be downloaded on the SxA/SxD/SxE itself by connecting to the internet and going to the System-Engineer page and pressing Download. If you are unable to connect the Sx to the internet directly, download the zip file and extract the contents to a local directory and then copy the files to the setup directory on the unit using FTP - see manual for further details on installing software.

IMPORTANT NOTE

Due to changes to Windows Server, Sx units are currently unable to download directly from our Web Site. Please use the FTP method described in our manual to perform upgrades. The simplest solution is to use our FTP client below.

Version	Date	Software	Release notes	SxA Manual	SxD Manual	SxE Manual
Current Release
0.10.0109	Feb 2nd 2012	SxA SxD SxE	Changes	SxA Manual	SxD Manual	SxE Manual
Previous Releases

 

Remote control SDK Documentation and Utilities

A setup application is provided to install the tools and documentation into the correct places

Tools are installed under the Start Menu and documentation and code examples are installed in MyDocuments\PhabrixSx\PhabrixSx\RemoteApiSDK. Download and install the Simulator to find out which commands are associated with which display fields (use context menu to turn on display of remote command information)

Version	For Software Version	Date	Utilities and Source	Documentation
0.10.0104	0.10.0104 ->	Jan 31st 2011	Applications, Examples & Docs Installer
Previous Releases

 

Simple FTP Client for the Sx range

A setup application is provided to install the FTP Client.

This application simplifies downloading of the latest version for networks where a Proxy server is used and Sx units do not have direct access to the internet. It can also be used for simpler downloading of Screen dumps or Report files from an Sx.

FTP Client Version	Release Date	Software
1.4	May 24th 2011	Installer