The RV-ONE is a single channel HD recorder which features a multilink and stacking that allows for multiple units to be linked to form a two or three channel recorder.  The HD encoder/recorder accepts a variety of HD and standard definition inputs and records video and audio to a USB flash drive or SD Card. The RV-sFOUR can record video up to 1080p60 which can be seamlessly switched while recording.  Seamless switching between the cameras gives the video finished quality without having to do post-process editing.

Record HD Video, Audio, and Data

Video

The RV-ONE and RV-sFOUR can record video up to 1080p60 using the same high quality compression algorithms as Blu-Ray.  Accepting a variety of inputs, compatible video sources include; 3G-SDI, HD-SDI, and SD-SDI as well as HDMI/DVI and even composite (NTSC and PAL).  The RV-sFOUR accepts up to four 3G-SDI, HD-SDI, or SD-SDI inputs to be switched to a single output and recording.  Video can be recorded in it’s full native resolution or down sampled by cropping or scaling.  Video is recorded as an .AVI file using h.264 compression at up to 16mbps or MJPEG compression with bitrates up to 55mbps.  Video can be played back using most standard media players and edited in nearly any post process software.

Audio

Synced with the video is embedded external audio input featuring a wide range of acceptance ranging from amplified microphones to aircraft headset audio.  Audio can be connected to the Rugged Video Commander Controller for recording of mp3 data basdd on manual triggers or GPS waypoints.

Record to a USB Flash Drive or SD Card

Choose between USB or SD solid state media by using the built-in select switch on the front of the RV-ONE and RV-sFOUR.  Large capacity drives allow for long record times which can amount to days of footage depending on the drive capacity.  As a general rule, HD video will require ~4GB per hour of record time.  Universal media types streamline the download and playback process making it easy to view and transfer video on any PC or MAC.

Data

External GPS data is accepted via an RS-232 input on the rear panel of both recorders.  The GPS option includes a Garmin 18x LVC or 18x 5Hz GPS Receiver Antenna with a plug-and-play connector.  Most standard external GPS sources may be used, including GPS pucks, portable GPS receivers, and Flight Decks.  Custom adapter cables are made to order for external GPS sources. GPS data is recorded along with a video file as a .KML or .GPX companion file.  KML and GPX GPS data files can be viewed and played  back in third party software such as Google Earth.  Recorded KML data includes lat, long, and altitude information.  GPX files include lat, long, altitude, speed, heading, and optional waypoint information.  Waypoints can be triggered via an optional momentary switch which stores a highlighted point (waypoint) in the GPX data file.

Overlay – GPS/Data/Text

A robust text overlay function allows for various datum to be displayed on the recorded video.  Text overlay can be configured to display different fonts, sizes, colors, and locations.  Text can be generated from: the GPS, the recorder menu, or external RS-232.  Up to three lines of custom ASCII text can be overlaid onto the video by sending the following sentence structure via RS-232 – $ASCII,TEXT LINE 1, TEXT LINE 2, TEXT LINE 3,. ASCII text can be updated at 20Hz, ideal for displaying custom parameters such as telemetry.

Note: Large amounts of data overlay options may limit encoding performance.

Workflow

To initiate a recording, the RV-ONE and RV-sFOUR require valid media and a video signal.  Media can be inserted and removed while the system is powered on allowing for quick turnaround between recordings.  Recording can be started via; an external start/stop switch, the front panel switch, or configured to start automatically upon power up.  While recording, the green Record status LED on the front of the unit (and built in LED in the available wired start/stop switch) will start to blink.  In the event of a full flash drive or loss in power while recording, the built-in backup battery function will stop the recording and safely power down to prevent corruption of the video.

Multilink

The RV-ONE allows for modular connection and stacking to create a multi-channel recorder.  GPS, Triggers, and Audio are linked using the multilink harness and will only be connected to the primary unit.  In addition, a power expansion harness allows for the connection of power to multiple systems using a single cable.  Unit stacking is accomplished using laser cut aluminum side plates that retain the use of the existing base mount. Picture This is the act of stacking two or three RV-ONE units together.  On the rear panel of the unit is a DB-25 connector that will pass-through GPS data, triggers, and audio.  This allows for easy connection to one unit that will then provide the signals for the others.  This is most common in Geospatial where more than one channel of video is usually necessary.

Live Viewing/Streaming

The RV-ONE and RV-sFOUR recorders loop through video inputs with no minimal latency allowing for near live viewing on a remote monitor.  Since the output is a loop through, any monitor that is compatible with the camera would be compatible for live viewing.  Rugged Video also offers a line of ruggedized monitors. The recorders feature WiFi and Ethernet connectivity which allow for streaming HD video to your iPad, PC, or capable tablet.  WiFi also allows for easy access to the system menus for setting changes.  Video can also be streamed via Ethernet for over a LAN or WAN.

Installation

Systems are designed to be simple enough for the average user to bench test and install, however, some customers prefer to enlist the help of a professional for installation.  All recorders and systems are shipped with a full set of documentation for connectivity and troubleshooting as well as a bench test power supply for pre-installation testing.  Camera and other interface cables are screw type or bayonet style that can be connected by hand.  A power cable is supplied that is designed to connect to most standard DC power systems with a voltage range between 10 and 32VDC. Camera power and interface cables are manufactured using a MIL-SPEC 6 conductor braided shield cable with Tefzel Jacket.  The jacket is designed for ease of installation, flammability resistance, and low smoke properties.  These cables are terminated with IP67 rated Hirose LF connectors.  Connectors feature a solid bayonet lock and are resistant to salt spray and other corrosion. SDI cable are assembled using 3Ghz rated RG-179 braided shielded cabling.  This cable was chosen due to its small diameter and low weight properties while still being rated for 1080p60 video.  Cables are terminated with Amphenol waterproof BNC connectors. Recorders can be bottom mounted or top mounted with reversible flanges.  Mounting flanges may be removed to allow access to side mounting via 8 x 4-40 threaded mounting holes on each side of the recorder (top and bottom).