AIDA Imaging GCON-SDI – 3G-SDI Genlock Converter with Active HDMI Loop Out

Product Overview

The AIDA Imaging GCON-SDI is a professional 3G-SDI genlock converter built for broadcast, multi-camera live production, and video engineering environments requiring frame-accurate signal synchronization. It accepts a 3G-SDI or HD-SDI input and delivers a genlocked SDI output alongside a synchronized active HDMI loop output, allowing SDI production infrastructure to maintain genlock integrity while also feeding HDMI monitoring or distribution. With zero-latency conversion, Tri-Level Sync compliance, SMPTE 292M/424M conformance, and 16-channel embedded audio passthrough, the GCON-SDI is the SDI-input counterpart to the GCON-HDMI.

Product Description

In multi-camera broadcast and live production workflows, maintaining genlock synchronization across all sources is critical for clean switching and compositing. The GCON-SDI takes an incoming 3G-SDI or HD-SDI signal and re-clocks it to a phase-accurate genlocked output synchronized to an external Tri-Level Sync reference. The simultaneous active HDMI loop output provides a secondary path for local monitoring or downstream HDMI routing without disrupting the SDI genlock chain. Adjustable H/V sync phase controls allow engineers to fine-tune pulse timing. A 13-pattern built-in test generator allows system verification and commissioning independent of a live source.

Key Features

• 3G-SDI/HD-SDI Genlock Conversion — Converts SDI source signals to frame-synchronized, genlocked SDI output for broadcast and multi-camera production systems.
• Active Genlocked HDMI Loop Output — Simultaneous synchronized HDMI 1.3a output for local monitoring or secondary HDMI routing.
• Zero Latency Processing — Genlock synchronization applied without introducing signal delay.
• Tri-Level Sync, SMPTE 292M/424M Compliance — Output meets broadcast HD-SDI and 3G-SDI standards.
• SMPTE 352M Payload ID — Ancillary data embedding selectable on or off.
• Adjustable H/V Sync Phase — Phase adjustment for precise timing alignment in multi-source genlock environments.
• 16-Channel Embedded Audio Passthrough — Preserves up to 16 channels of embedded SDI audio at 16, 20, or 24-bit depth.
• 13-Pattern Built-In Test Generator — Onboard test patterns for signal path verification and commissioning.
• Text LCD + OSD Controls — Direct hardware configuration, no network or software required.
• Compact, Field-Deployable Chassis — 130 x 75 x 24mm, matching the GCON-HDMI for matched deployment across large multi-camera rigs.

Typical Applications

• Broadcast studio
• Multi-camera live production
• House of worship
• Auditorium
• Video test laboratory

Technical Specifications

Frequently Asked Questions

What SDI signal formats does the GCON-SDI accept?

Both HD-SDI (SMPTE 292M) and 3G-SDI (SMPTE 424M) input signals. Supports 1080p, 1080i, and 720p across broadcast-standard frame rates.

How does the GCON-SDI differ from the GCON-HDMI?

The GCON-SDI accepts SDI input; the GCON-HDMI accepts HDMI input. Both produce genlocked SDI and HDMI outputs and share identical chassis dimensions, specs, and pricing.

Is the HDMI output a passive loop or an active genlocked output?

It is an active genlocked output, synchronized to the same genlock reference as the SDI output, suitable for use as a synchronized monitoring feed.

Does the GCON-SDI preserve embedded audio?

Yes. Embedded SDI audio is passed through on up to 16 channels at 16, 20, or 24-bit depth.

What reference signal does the GCON-SDI lock to?

Tri-Level Sync, the standard HD sync format for broadcast facilities. Connect a house sync reference signal to the sync input to enable genlock operation.