The Search for a Universal Timing Reference Signal

Peter D. Symes

For many years the timing reference for most television equipment has been a “color black” or “black-burst” signal of the appropriate standard. Although this approach has served the industry well, it does have limitations, particularly in facilities that operate in multiple television standards. There are difficulties inherent in replacing any established standard; the new proposal must offer substantial value when compared to the costs of making the change. This is particularly challenging in the case of the timing reference. The distribution of this signal is one of the most fundamental components of a facility infrastructure, and backward compatibility seems to be an essential element of any practical proposal. A concept has been presented that appears to offer most of the desired attributes for a future reference signal. This paper will describe the concept, and present a view of discussions under way to define a transport that meets industry requirements.

Print ISSN
Published
2002-05
Content type
Original Research
DOI
10.5594/J16374