Videomedia Alix V-LAN Video Device Controller BNC Serial GPIB 101/220V

Videomedia Alix V-LAN Video Device Controller BNC Serial GPIB 101/220V

The Videomedia Alix is a V-LAN video device controller designed for professional video production environments. It connects to and controls multiple video decks and editing devices over the V-LAN (Video Local Area Network) protocol, allowing centralized transport control, time code management, and device synchronization from a single unit. The Alix was part of Videomedia's line of V-LAN controllers produced in San Jose, California, targeting broadcast, post-production, and tape-based editing suites of the 1990s.

Specifications & What's Included

• Manufacturer: Videomedia, San Jose, California
• Model / Part Number: ALIX
• Protocol: V-LAN (Video Local Area Network) device control
• Power: 101/220V AC, 50/60Hz (universal input, IEC AC inlet)
• Form Factor: Desktop chassis
• Front Panel: 6-segment LED status indicator strip (channels/device status)
• Rear Panel – BNC Ports: Time Code In, Time Code Out, In, Out (4x BNC total)
• Rear Panel – V-LAN: V-LAN port (proprietary multi-pin connector)
• Rear Panel – Serial: Serial 1 (DB9), Serial 2 (DB9), Serial In (DB9) — 3 serial ports total
• Rear Panel – Reference: REF Loop connector
• Rear Panel – CF connector
• Rear Panel – GPSI connector
• FCC Class A computing device compliance (per rear label)
• Unit only; no additional accessories included

Applications

The Videomedia V-LAN system was a proprietary device-control network widely used in professional post-production and broadcast facilities during the 1990s. V-LAN allowed a controller like the Alix to issue transport commands (play, stop, record, shuttle, cue) to multiple VTRs, disk recorders, and other V-LAN-compatible devices simultaneously over a single daisy-chained cable, eliminating the need for individual RS-422 connections to each deck. The Alix served as the central hub or node controller in these setups, handling time code synchronization, reference loop-through, and serial device communication. It was commonly found in tape-to-tape editing suites, video duplication facilities, and broadcast automation environments using equipment from manufacturers such as Sony, Panasonic, and Ampex that supported V-LAN or serial device control. While V-LAN is a legacy protocol largely supplanted by IP-based and SDI control systems, these controllers remain in demand for maintaining and operating existing V-LAN-equipped facilities and for vintage video production workflows.