Eagle Tree Text OSD - Manual

Copyright © 2008 Eagle Tree Systems, LLC
http://www.eagletreesystems.com
Instruction Manual for Video OSD Expander
Document Version 1.4
Thank you for your purchase! This instruction manual will guide you through the installation and operation of your Video OSD Expander (the Expander).
Please read the entire manual carefully before proceeding. If, after you read the manual, you have further questions or problems, see the Support page on
http://www.eagletreesystems.com for additional information, or email us at [email protected].
Packing List
Your package should include the following: The Expander, and a printed version of this manual. Please check our support web page for the electronic
version of this manual which may be updated if changes were made after printing.
What the Expander Does
The Expander is a high quality, fully configurable Video On-Screen Display
(OSD) device. When connected to your eLogger or Data Recorder, the OSD
superimposes Eagle Tree data onto your video feed, displaying the
parameters you want to see on the video screen. The Expander is normally
connected between the composite video output of your video camera, and
the composite video input of your DVR or video transmitter. The Expander supports NTSC, PAL and SECAM video modes.
Supported Recorders and Sensors
The Expander works with all versions of the eLogger, and all Data Recorder products that have flash upgradable
firmware (sold after mid 2005). All Eagle Tree sensors are supported with the OSD Expander.
Note that our eLogger V1 and V2 products do not support GPS, so GPS features are not supported with the
eLogger V1 or V2. The eLogger V3 and Data Recorders support GPS.
Steps to Follow
Installation and use of your Expander should be quite easy and enjoyable if you follow these few steps:
1. Read through the manual to understand the warnings, determine the installation and setup sequence,
etc.
2. Install or upgrade to the Windows Application and Firmware for your Expander and Recorder as
described in the “Windows Application and Firmware Update” section below.
3. Install and configure the Expander as described below.
4. Range test and enjoy!
IMPORTANT: It is extremely unlikely that the installation of the Expander will affect your model’s radio
range or control. But, as always after making an electronics change to your model, it is very important that you
range and function test your model once the Expander is installed to ensure that there is no impact on your
system. Make sure that your “antenna down” operating range is within the manufacturer’s specifications.
See your Radio owner’s manual for the correct procedure for your equipment. DO NOT OPERATE IF
YOUR MODEL DOESN’T PASS THE ANTENNA DOWN RANGE CHECK
Connecting the Expander to Your Camera and Video Recorder/Transmitter
The two 3 pin connectors on the Expander are used to route the composite video signal into and out of the
Expander. The inputs/outputs work with standard 75 Ohm composite video. The upper connector is video IN,
and the lower connector is video OUT. The “-“ and “signal” pins are the only ones used by the Expander, but
the “+” pins are connected together internally in the Expander, for your convenience.
Connecting the Expander to a Spare Receiver Channel (for remote control of features)
Though not required, the Video Expander can be connected to a spare receiver channel controlled by your radio (such as flaps or landing gear) which will
enable control of the Expander remotely. The features that presently can be controlled by this channel are On/Off and Page Switch (for multiple OSD
pages). Connect the Expander to your spare receiver channel by connecting a “male to male” servo cable between the connector marked “Servo” on the
Expander, and the spare receiver output.
Connecting the Expander to Your Eagle Tree Logger
eLogger V3
The Expander plugs into the “LCD/TX” port of your eLogger V3, as shown in Figure 1A. If you
have a PowerPanel or other Expanders, those can “daisy chain” connect to the pins on the other side
of your Expander, with the polarity as indicated on the Expander label. IMPORTANT: when using
the OSD Expander with the eLogger V3 and the GPS Expander, a maximum voltage of
approximately 16 volts (4s LiPo pack) should be used to power the eLogger. If you are using a pack
greater than 16 volts, the eLogger’s internal regulator may temporarily shut down, which will cause
the OSD Expander to turn off, resulting in no video display. To avoid this issue, use our “Battery
Backup Harness” which can connect to a spare 5V to 6V BEC or spare receiver channel when using
larger battery packs.
Figure 1B