The Blackmagic Design Spares - Smart Videohub 12x12 - PCB Main is the core motherboard and routing matrix for the compact 12x12 6G-SDI router. This board handles the simultaneous distribution of any of the 12 inputs to any of the 12 outputs, supporting mixed-format signals from SD up to Ultra HD 4K.
High-Speed 6G-SDI Matrix
Despite its 1RU half-rack or full-width size (depending on the specific chassis revision), the Main PCB is a powerhouse of signal processing. It is designed to maintain broadcast-grade signal integrity across all 24 BNC connections.
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Format Agnostic Routing: The board can simultaneously route different video standards on different ports, allowing an SD signal to coexist with an Ultra HD signal in the same matrix.
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Automatic Re-clocking: Every SDI output on the PCB features dedicated re-clocking logic. This regenerates the signal to reduce jitter, ensuring that the video remains stable even after long cable runs from the router to the destination.
Control and Network Architecture
The Main PCB serves as the unit's communication gateway, enabling both local and remote control functionality.
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Ethernet Logic: It houses the network stack required for the Videohub to be seen by the Videohub Software Control and hardware control panels (like the Smart Control or Master Control) over a LAN.
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USB Interface: Includes a USB 2.0 port for initial IP configuration and firmware updates via the Blackmagic Videohub Setup utility.
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Reference Management: The board contains the circuitry for the Reference Input (Black Burst or Tri-Sync), which is vital for keeping all routed signals in vertical sync within a larger facility.
Integrated I/O and Power
As a high-density spare part, the Main PCB includes the following soldered components:
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12 x 6G-SDI Inputs: Capable of handling SD-SDI, HD-SDI, 3G-SDI, and 6G-SDI.
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12 x 6G-SDI Outputs: Each with independent re-clocking.
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Power Regulation: Manages the 12V DC input, distributing stable voltage to the high-frequency FPGA and SDI driver chips.
Key Features
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Genuine Manufacturer Part: Specifically for the Smart Videohub 12x12 (not compatible with 20x20 or CleanSwitch models).
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Ultra HD Support: Fully compatible with 2160p30 resolutions.
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Zero Latency: The crosspoint architecture ensures that video passes through the router with no frame delay.
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Standard Fit: Engineered to align perfectly with the BNC cutouts on the 12x12 rear panel.
Technical Installation Note
Replacing the 12x12 Main PCB is a precise task due to the compact nature of the device:
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BNC Alignment: Extreme care must be taken to align all 24 BNC ports with the rear plate. Forcing the plate onto misaligned ports can crack the solder joints on the PCB.
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Thermal Management: The 6G-SDI chips on this board generate significant heat. Ensure that the thermal pads are correctly positioned between the chips and the chassis (or heat sink) to prevent overheating.
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Software Reset: A new Main PCB will ship with factory default settings. You must connect the unit via USB to assign a static IP or enable DHCP before it will appear on your network for remote control.
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ESD Protocol: As with all Blackmagic routing hardware, the dense array of SDI drivers is highly sensitive to static electricity. An anti-static wrist strap and mat are highly recommended during installation.
