AJA 12G-AM – Glue Equipment
The AJA 12G-AM is a professional 8-channel AES audio embedder/disembedder mini-converter for broadcast and live production.
Description
The AJA 12G-AM is a professional 8-channel AES audio embedder/disembedder mini-converter for broadcast and live production. It integrates balanced XLR audio (via DB-25 breakout) with 12G-SDI video I/O, supporting up to 24-bit 48 kHz synchronous audio across SD through 12G formats with 3.2 µsec latency. Ideal for OB vans, flypack trucks, and studio glue workflows, it offers DIP-switch configuration and USB control via AJA Mini-Config software. Available new, ex-demo and used stock—contact us for availability and technical specifications.
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FAQ
Can the 12G-AM embed and disembed audio simultaneously, or do I need separate units for each direction in a two-way feed?+
The 12G-AM handles both embed and disembed on the same unit via a single 12G-SDI input and output pair. Audio from the XLR inputs embeds into the SDI output; audio from the SDI input disembeds to the XLR outputs. For true simultaneous bidirectional audio on independent signals (e.g., monitoring return while sending program), you'll need two units. Confirm your signal flow architecture before deployment—OB van trunk lines often require this dual configuration.
What's the practical latency impact when cascading multiple 12G-AMs, and does it accumulate linearly?+
Each 12G-AM adds 3.2 µsec (12G/6G/3G Level A) of latency. Cascading is linear; two units = 6.4 µsec total. For most broadcast workflows this is negligible, but in live interactive or talkback chains with talent cueing, cumulative delays across multiple embed/disembed stages can degrade perceived lip-sync. Measure your complete signal chain if latency-sensitive monitoring is critical; consider direct routing where possible.
The unit accepts 5–16VDC; can I power it from a broadcast camera's 12V tap, or should I use the supplied PSU exclusively?+
The universal PSU provided is the recommended source. While the 5–16VDC range permits camera 12V auxiliary taps, those supplies often carry noise and ripple unsuitable for audio-critical equipment. If powering from camera infrastructure, add a regulated DC supply and isolate via ferrite clamping on power leads. For OB vans and studio installations, use the dedicated PSU to guarantee clean supply and simplify troubleshooting; 10W max consumption is negligible on standard infrastructure.
How do I configure the 8-channel AES routing—is it fixed per SDI frame, or can I reassign groups dynamically?+
The 12G-AM uses 8-position DIP switches for static configuration and USB Mini-Config software for flexible routing. DIP-switch settings define which AES pairs map to which SDI audio groups (1–8); changes require a power cycle. USB control via Mini-Config allows dynamic remapping without power interruption. Verify your control workflow: static DIP setup is simple for fixed production chains, but if you're swapping feeds or require ad-hoc reconfiguration, rely on the software interface with a laptop connected via USB in your rack.
What happens to video and audio sync if the incoming SDI signal drops or degrades below lock threshold?+
When 12G-SDI input is lost, the unit typically halts embedding and may mute audio outputs depending on firmware behavior—confirm the exact failover mode with AJA or your tech support contact. Audio disembed from a degraded signal may produce artifacts. Build your architecture assuming no bridge behavior: place a SPG or master clock upstream to guarantee timing, and design monitoring to detect input loss immediately. On OB trucks, this is especially critical; validate signal integrity at ingress points.
I need to pass HDR metadata through the 12G-AM without modification. Is it transparent, and does it support HLG, PQ, and Rec. 2100 colorimetry?+
The spec confirms HDR pass-through support and 10-bit color space (RGB and YCbCr, 4:4:4 and 4:2:2). However, the exact HDR transfer function support (HLG, PQ, ST 2084) is not itemized in the base specification. For production requiring specific HDR workflows, contact AJA to confirm firmware support for your color space and ask whether any firmware updates expand HDR handling. Treat HDR as supported-in-principle but verify compatibility before committing to HDR production builds.
In an OB van, do I need external sync/genlock, or can the 12G-AM sync to incoming SDI alone?+
The 12G-AM is a transparent mini-converter; it synchronizes audio and video timing to the incoming 12G-SDI signal but does not generate or regenerate timing for the network. For reliable OB operation, you must provide an external sync reference (SPG, Black & Burst, tri-level) to your upstream sources (camera, router, mixer). The 12G-AM then passes that timing downstream. This is standard practice: never rely on equipment in the middle of a chain for sync authority. Confirm your OB van has an SPG as master clock before deployment.
If I'm upgrading from HD/3G infrastructure to 12G, can existing SDI routers and fiber converters in my plant pass 12G-SDI from the 12G-AM without issues?+
The 12G-AM outputs true 12G-SDI on BNC. Compatibility depends entirely on your router and fiber endpoints: not all legacy routers or fiber gear support 12G passthrough—many are capped at 6G or 3G. Before purchasing the 12G-AM, audit your plant infrastructure (router specs, fiber optics, BNC patch panels, cable runs). If you're feeding legacy 3G/6G-only equipment, the 12G-AM will downconvert, but you lose bandwidth advantages. A full 12G upgrade strategy may require new routing or fiber cards; plan accordingly with your systems integrator.
Is the equipment under warranty?+
Yes, every used or ex-demo unit is tested and covered by a 90-day warranty. In the event of a failure, the round-trip transport cost is shared equally between the customer and Broadcast Depot.
Do you ship internationally?+
Yes, Broadcast Depot ships worldwide. We arrange transport on quotation, or you can use your own carrier. Delivery usually takes 3 to 5 days. OB vans are delivered by driver or collected on site.
Can I return or exchange a product?+
Yes, in case of an error or if you would like another product from our stock: returns and exchanges are possible with no time limit. Contact us to arrange it.
Technical specifications
| Device Type | 8-channel AES audio embedder/disembedder mini-converter |
| Video Input/Output | 1x 12G-SDI BNC input, 1x 12G-SDI BNC output |
| Video Formats | 4K DCI (4096x2160p), UltraHD (3840x2160p), 2K, HD, SD; up to 60 fps |
| Audio Channels | 8-channel balanced AES/EBU (4x XLR inputs, 4x XLR outputs via DB-25 breakout cable) |
| Audio Specifications | SD: 20-bit 48 kHz; 3G/HD/12G: 24-bit 48 kHz synchronous |
| Color Space | RGB and YCbCr, 4:4:4/4:2:2, 10-bit; HDR pass-through supported |
| Video Latency | 3.2 µsec (12G/6G/3G Level A), 6.3 µsec (3G Level B-DL/HD), 17.2 µsec (SD) |
| Control | 8-position external DIP switches; USB port with AJA Mini-Config software |
| Power | +5VDC to +16VDC regulated, 10 watts max; universal power supply included |
| Dimensions | 5.8" x 3.1" x 1.0" (147.32 mm x 78.74 mm x 25.4 mm) |
| Weight | 0.6 lb (0.3 kg) |
| Warranty | 5 years |