Video Production and Broadcast Video Production and BroadcastThis page describes the operation of the patch panels and gives instructions for setting up various common patches.
The patch panels simplify connecting rack-mounted machinery by consolidating the inputs and outputs of each device in one easily accessible location. Cables on the back of the panels connect the front sockets to the actual input and output jacks on the devices. The pink cables are used to make connections or "patches" between devices.
Each patch panel consists of two rows of sockets. The upper row, labelled in black, are outputs. Signals are produced in these sockets. The lower row in each unit, labelled in red, are inputs. Signals are expected in these sockets. The labels refer to the device or the logical signals generated within the system. Due to space limitations, the labels can be rather cryptic. A partial dictionary of the acronyms and their meanings is given at the bottom of this page.
The general rule is that if you change a patch you should restore the original when you are finished.