What is the function of a sequential switcher in a duplication studio?
A duplication studio uses one or more video sources, distribution amplifiers and many recording VCRs. The main problem encountered in duplication studios is the fact that sometimes a videocassette gets jammed, a cable gets loose or broken or one of the outputs of a DA ceases functioning. A monitoring system is needed to control the recording process in order to produce 100% error free duplicates. This is usually done by rewinding all the VCRs to the beginning of the recording using a master remote control unit, and commanding playback on all VCRs. When all VCRs are playing the recorded tape, a sequential switcher routing the signals one after the other to a screen, monitors the output of each VCR. Each recorded tape is viewed for a short period of time (or automatically monitored by a “smart” switcher). A faulty tape can be easily spotted and removed.
