Sony SRW5800-2 Manual

The Sony SRW5800-2 is a professional high-definition video recorder designed for broadcast and production environments. It supports multiple HD/SD formats, features dual-channel recording capability, extensive I/O interfaces, and robust file-based workflows. Below are key sections for safety, features, installation, setup, operation, and troubleshooting.

Features at a Glance

Key components: Dual HDCAM-SR tape decks, HD/SD-SDI inputs/outputs, Ethernet port, Remote control panel connector, Reference input, Audio I/O.

Feature	Description
Dual-channel recording	Simultaneous record/playback on two decks
HD/SD-SDI I/O	Supports 1080i, 720p, 480i, 576i formats
Ethernet port	For network control and file transfer
Remote control panel	RS-422 connector for external control
Reference input	Black burst or tri-level sync reference
Audio inputs/outputs	Analog XLR and AES/EBU digital audio
POWER	Main power switch
EJECT	Ejects tape from selected deck
STANDBY	Switches unit to low-power mode
MENU	Accesses on-screen setup menu

Installation

Unpack and inspect contents. Install in standard 19-inch rack.

1. Rack mounting: Use provided brackets and screws to secure unit in rack.
2. Connect video sources: Use BNC connectors for HD/SD-SDI input.
3. Connect audio: Use XLR or AES/EBU connectors for audio I/O.
4. Connect reference: Attach reference signal to REF IN BNC.
5. Connect to network: Use Ethernet cable for control/data.
6. Plug into AC power.

WARNING! Unit is heavy; use two people for installation. Ensure proper ventilation.

First-Time Setup

Power on unit; follow on-screen prompts.

1. Set reference signal: In SYSTEM menu, select appropriate reference type.
2. Configure inputs/outputs: Set SDI format (HD/SD), audio levels.
3. Set timecode: Configure timecode generator for internal or external sync.
4. Network setup: Assign IP address for network control.
5. Format tapes: Use FORMAT function on new HDCAM-SR tapes.

CAUTION! Ensure stable power supply; use surge protector.

Specifications

• Recording Format: HDCAM-SR, HDCAM, Digital Betacam playback.
• Video Signals: 1080/59.94i, 1080/50i, 720/59.94p, 720/50p, 480/59.94i, 576/50i.
• Audio: 12 channels AES/EBU, 4 channels analog XLR.
• Interfaces: HD/SD-SDI I/O (x4), Ethernet (1000BASE-T), RS-422, Reference I/O.
• Tape: HDCAM-SR tape, 124 min at 1080/59.94i.
• Power Requirements: 100-240V AC, 50/60Hz.
• Operating Temperature: 5°C to 40°C (41°F to 104°F).
• Dimensions: 19" rack mount, 8U height.

Controls and Settings

Access OSD via MENU button. Front Panel: POWER, EJECT, STANDBY, DECK SELECT, TRANSPORT controls.

Remote Panel: Full transport control, menu navigation, shortcut keys.

System Menu: Reference setup, timecode, network configuration. Input/Output: Video format, audio routing, SDI output settings. Deck Settings: Record mode (SR/HD), audio mapping, pre-read editing. Maintenance: Head cleaning, diagnostics, firmware update.

Connecting Devices

Video: HD/SD-SDI BNC connections. Audio: XLR analog or AES/EBU digital. Control: RS-422 or Ethernet.

1. Turn off unit and devices before connecting.
2. Use quality BNC cables for SDI connections.
3. Match audio levels (+4dBu professional).
4. Set remote control protocol (Sony 9-pin) if using RS-422.

Tip: Label all cables for easy identification in multi-unit setups.

Recording & Playback

Supports HDCAM-SR recording, digital Betacam playback.

1. Load tape: Press EJECT, insert tape label side out.
2. Record: Press REC and PLAY simultaneously; use preview for confidence monitoring.
3. Playback: Press PLAY; use shuttle/jog for precise control.
4. Edit functions: Insert, assemble, pre-read editing available.
5. Dual deck operation: Use DECK SELECT to control Deck A or B.
6. Timecode: Display and generate timecode; set user bits.
7. Audio monitoring: Select channels via AUDIO MONITOR buttons.
8. Metadata: Record and display clip metadata.

WARNING! Do not expose tapes to magnetic fields. Store in proper environment.

Network & File Management

Ethernet control: Use Sony protocol for remote operation. File transfer: Transfer clips via FTP (optional). Metadata: Edit and export clip metadata.

Care & Maintenance

Regular cleaning: Use approved head cleaning tape monthly. Environment: Keep free of dust, maintain proper temperature/humidity. Inspection: Check connectors periodically for corrosion.

CAUTION! Use only Sony-approved cleaning tapes. Power off before cleaning.

Regulatory Information

FCC Part 15: Class A digital device; may cause interference in residential areas. CE compliant for European market. Copyright © Sony Corporation. For support, visit pro.sony.com or contact Sony Professional Support.

Troubleshooting

Symptom	Possible Cause	Corrective Action
No power	Power cable/switch	Check power cable connection; ensure power switch is on.
No video output	Cables/settings	Verify SDI cable connection; check output format settings.
Tape not loading	Tape/mechanism	Ensure tape is not damaged; clean tape path.
Timecode issues	Sync/reference	Check reference signal; set timecode to correct mode.
Network not connecting	IP settings/cable	Verify Ethernet cable; check IP address configuration.
Audio distortion	Levels/connections	Check audio input levels; verify XLR connections.

Reset: Menu > System > Initialize to factory defaults if needed.

Service: Contact Sony Professional Support or authorized service center.