This Editor has some features not found on other types in this family such as RCA GPI jacks, and spare 9 pin RS232 ports for additional device control.
From Panasonic:
The Panasonic AG-A850 is an unusually powerful A/B Roll edit controller. It can control up to five VTRs and can be configured to use three of them as recorders, allowing simultaneous production of three videotapes. Of course it can also be set up in the more traditional A/B editing configuration with one recorder and four source VTRs and also features the ability to control external devices, a 512-event memory and four channel audio editing.
Features:
- Flexible Control Of Multiple VTRs -The AG-A850 has six RS-422 (9 pin) serial ports for VTR connection. Any connected VTR can be selected as a recorder and up to three VTRs can be used as recorders simultaneously. In any recorder configuration, two source machines can be controlled simultaneously.
- Full Switcher Control -The AG-A850 offers fully integrated control of a video switcher through an RS-422 (9 pin) serial port.
- Control Additional External Equipment -Two GPI (General Purpose Interface) pulse outputs with variable timing allow programmed triggering of external devices such as a special effects generator, audio mixer or character generator. One of the GPI ports allows for two operations in one event.
- Edit List and Memory Functions -Edit data for up to 512 events can be held in memory for three days or can be downloaded to a computer. The numerical keypad makes for convenient data entry.
- On Screen Display -When used with an external monitor, the AG-A850 can display the edit list as well as setup and configuration menus.
- Accurate and Precise Machine Control -Two jog/shuttle control dials assure quick, accurate and simultaneous control of both source and recorder.