(The Basics)
I’ve faced frustration during multiple shows, but my Decimator MD-HX has saved the day on several occasions. Recently, at a production where the rental company provided a camera outputting 1920x1080 59.94i, we needed to convert it to 1920x1080 59.94p for our Blackmagic switcher to read the input. The Decimator MD-HX handled the conversion flawlessly, ensuring a seamless production.
The Decimator MD-HX is a must-have for audio and visual technicians, offering reliable signal conversion and compatibility solutions that keep productions running smoothly. It effortlessly handles different video formats, resolutions, and frame rates, ensuring your equipment works seamlessly together and saving you from technical hiccups during critical moments.
Full Transparency
In this blog, I’ll cover the basics of the Decimator MD-HX, helping you get to know this device and its importance in the AV industry. Whether you’re new to audio and visual technology or a seasoned professional, understanding how the Decimator MD-HX can streamline your workflow is crucial.
Later, I’ll also touch on its applications in film production, showcasing its broad utility across different scenarios and industries.
Key Features:
Cross Conversion: Explain how it seamlessly converts HDMI to SDI and SDI to HDMI, crucial for AV techs dealing with varied equipment.
Scaling and Frame Rate Conversion: Highlight the ability to adjust resolution and frame rate, ensuring smooth, consistent playback.
Multiple Outputs: Discuss how having both HDMI and SDI outputs available simultaneously enhances flexibility in setups.
Built-in Test Patterns and Audio Monitoring: Being able to come up with signal on the job site in seconds is super crucial
Compact and Portable: A sturdy compact design that is portable and fits in your Pelican Air 1535, standard backpack, or even your back pocket ;)
Benefits:
Versatility: Ideal for bridging different types of equipment in varied AV setups.
Reliability: Dependable performance under pressure, crucial for live events.
User-Friendly: Easy to use, even for techs who might not specialize in video.
Basic Overview of the Default Input Status Screen:
To start, let’s look at the input status display on the Decimator MD-HX. Here’s a photo of the device’s input status screen:
(This is the Default Status Screen)
Understanding Input Status Indicators
S (SDI): Indicates an SDI input signal.
H (HDMI): Shows an HDMI input signal.
D (Downscale): Displays when the input signal is being downscaled.
These indicators help you quickly identify the type of input signal and any conversions taking place, ensuring that you’re always aware of what the device is processing. This is crucial for troubleshooting and ensuring compatibility with other equipment in your setup.
Quick Tip:
If you see a resolution signal on the S or H it indicates that your Decimator MD-HX is seeing something and that your cable and source device are functioning correctly. The input configuration is set properly. This helps you quickly verify that the fundamental connections are intact, allowing you to troubleshoot more efficiently if further issues arise.
So, let's say you have a LAPTOP (Macbook Pro M1 2022 - 13"), you connect it to your DECIMATOR HX input, you’ll see something like this,
Input Status
S: No Signal
H: 3GA 1080p60
D: 3G 1080p59.94
What does this mean right of the bat:
Your cable is functioning correctly.
The device outputting the signal is working properly.
In essence, it confirms that the connection from your source device to the Decimator MD-HX is intact and transmitting the expected signal type. This helps you quickly verify that the basic hardware connections and signal outputs are functioning as intended.
Quick Rundown Before Control:
LCD Screen / Menu:
The built-in LCD screen displays the current status, settings, and options.
Use the navigation buttons to scroll through menus and select different settings.
The interface is intuitive, making it easy to access and adjust various parameters even if you’re not highly tech-savvy.
Rotary Button / Menu Navigation
The rotary button allows for quick and precise adjustments.
It can be used to fine-tune settings such as resolution, frame rate, and output format.
< > | BACK | ENTER | are seen on the face under screen.
USB Control:
Connect the Decimator MD-HX to a computer via USB for additional control options.
Use the Decimator Control software to manage settings from your computer.
This software provides a more detailed view of the device’s status and options, making it easier to make complex adjustment
How To Control:
The Decimator MD-HX does not have a traditional nested menu structure. Instead, you use the arrow buttons to cycle through different settings and options directly.
Default Screen: Input Status
Highlighted Selection: When an option is highlighted, it means that this particular setting is currently selected and can be adjusted
Navigating: < > buttons
NAVIGATION:
< > will be used to turn pages and when ENTER is hit it will either cycle through its option or enter into longer menus. So, for example,
When needed to, then use <> to cycle through the longer menu options.
The main menu should show “Input Status” (this page is only to display signals in and out).
The 2 "Most Common" Cases
CASE #1 - HDMI input to SDI output
CASE #2 - SDI input to HDMI output
*(CASE #1) - HDMI Input to SDI Output
This setup is commonly used when you need to convert an HDMI signal from a device like a laptop or camera to an SDI signal for professional video equipment such as switchers or recorders.
Steps to Configure HDMI Input to SDI Output:
1.Connect HDMI Source:
Connect your HDMI source (e.g., laptop or camera) to the HDMI input on the Decimator MD-HX using an HDMI cable
2. Connect SDI Output:
Connect an SDI cable from the SDI output on the Decimator MD-HX to your SDI destination device (e.g., switcher or recorder).
3. Configure Settings:
Power on the Decimator MD-HX.
Use the right arrow button (>) to navigate to the Control Menu.
Hit (ENTER) to access the menu.
Use the right arrow button (>) to navigate to the SDI OUT SOURCE setting.
Use the (ENTER) buttons to rotate through the menu and set the SDI OUT SOURCE to HDMI IN.
The screen should display SDI OUT SOURCE: HDMI IN to confirm the configuration.
After that you can hit (BACK) button back to the Input Status for your default menu.
4. Verify Signal:
Ensure that the SDI OUTPUT is connected firmly to the Decimator MD-HX and run the output cable to a projector or display that is able to verify the signal is coming out.
*(CASE #2) - SDI input to HDMI output
This setup is commonly used when you need to convert an SDI signal from a device like a switcher or camera to an HDMI signal for professional video equipment such as PROJECTOR or RECORDERS.
Steps to Configure SDI Input to HDMI Output:
Connect SDI Source
Connect your SDI source (e.g., SWITCHER or CAMERA) to the SDI input on the Decimator MD-HX using an SDI cable.
2. Connect HDMI Output:
Connect an HDMI cable from the HDMI output on the Decimator MD-HX to your HDMI destination device (e.g., projector, monitor or consumer recorder).
3. Configure Settings:
Power on the Decimator MD-HX.
Use the right arrow button (>) to navigate to the CONTROL setting.
Use the right arrow button (>) to navigate to the HDMI OUT SOURCE setting.
Use the (ENTER) buttons to set the HDMI OUT SOURCE to SDI IN.
The screen should display HDMI OUT SOURCE: SDI IN to confirm the configuration.
4. Verify Signal:
Ensure that the HDMI destination device (PROJECTOR) is receiving the signal correctly.
Conclusion
The Decimator MD-HX is an invaluable tool for any audio and visual technician. Its ability to seamlessly convert between HDMI and SDI, scale resolutions, and adjust frame rates makes it a versatile and reliable solution for a wide range of applications. Whether you are working on live events, corporate AV setups, or film production, the Decimator MD-HX ensures that your equipment is compatible and your signals are flawless.
By understanding its key features, benefits, and practical use cases, you can optimize your workflow and prevent technical hiccups during critical moments. The intuitive control interface, combined with its robust design, makes the Decimator MD-HX both user-friendly and durable, ideal for professionals on the go.
Investing in a Decimator MD-HX means investing in the quality and reliability of your productions. For both seasoned professionals and those new to the AV industry, this device is a must-have in your toolkit.
Thank you for reading this blog. If you have any questions or need further assistance with the Decimator MD-HX, feel free to reach out. Stay tuned for more in-depth articles and tips on maximizing your AV equipment’s potential.
Happy troubleshooting!
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