CBT Broadcast Systems & Equipment 2 — Questions and Answers
Question 1: What is the primary function of a distribution amplifier (DA) in a broadcast facility?
- To compress the audio signal
- To split and amplify a signal to multiple destinations without degradation (Correct answer)
- To convert analog signals to digital
- To synchronize multiple video sources
Correct answer: To split and amplify a signal to multiple destinations without degradation
A distribution amplifier splits one input signal into multiple identical outputs while maintaining signal integrity and impedance matching.
Question 2: In broadcast television, what does the term 'house sync' refer to?
- The audio synchronization standard used in editing suites
- A master timing reference signal distributed throughout the facility (Correct answer)
- The synchronization of satellite uplink timing
- A backup power synchronization system
Correct answer: A master timing reference signal distributed throughout the facility
House sync is a master reference signal (typically black burst or tri-level sync) distributed facility-wide so all equipment operates in phase.
Question 3: What is the standard impedance for professional video coaxial cable used in broadcast facilities?
- 50 ohms
- 75 ohms (Correct answer)
- 100 ohms
- 110 ohms
Correct answer: 75 ohms
Professional broadcast video uses 75-ohm coaxial cable, while audio balanced lines use 110 ohms and RF/data systems often use 50 ohms.
Question 4: Which type of routing switcher allows switching between sources only at specific points in the video signal to avoid glitches?
- Asynchronous switcher
- Synchronous or 'clean' switcher (Correct answer)
- Matrix switcher
- Master control switcher
Correct answer: Synchronous or 'clean' switcher
A synchronous or 'clean' switcher performs transitions only at the vertical interval or a specific sync point to prevent picture disturbances.
Question 5: What is a frame synchronizer used for in broadcast operations?
- To synchronize audio levels between sources
- To align an asynchronous video signal to house sync (Correct answer)
- To correct color errors in the video signal
- To compress video for transmission
Correct answer: To align an asynchronous video signal to house sync
A frame synchronizer stores incoming video in a buffer and re-clocks it to match the facility's house sync, enabling switching between non-synchronous sources.
Question 6: In a broadcast studio, what is the purpose of a proc amp (processing amplifier)?
- To process audio for broadcast transmission
- To adjust and stabilize video parameters such as sync, burst, and levels (Correct answer)
- To amplify only the audio portion of a composite signal
- To convert between different video formats
Correct answer: To adjust and stabilize video parameters such as sync, burst, and levels
A proc amp processes composite video to restore and adjust sync timing, color burst level, black level, and white level for a stable, standardized output.
Question 7: What does 'return video' typically refer to in a broadcast production environment?
- A video signal sent back from the transmitter for monitoring
- Video fed back to a camera operator or remote location for reference (Correct answer)
- The replay of recorded footage during a live event
- Video routed back through a switcher for effects processing
Correct answer: Video fed back to a camera operator or remote location for reference
Return video is a feed sent back to a camera operator, remote site, or talent so they can see the program output or another designated source.
CBT Broadcast Systems & Equipment 2
What is the primary function of a distribution amplifier (DA) in a broadcast facility?