CBT Broadcast Systems & Equipment 5

Question 1

In broadcast audio, what is an AES/EBU digital audio signal?

Accepted Answer

A serial digital audio standard for carrying two channels over a single balanced connection

Answer

AES/EBU (AES3) is a standard for serial digital audio transmission, carrying two channels (a stereo pair) over a single 110-ohm balanced XLR connection at professional quality.

Question 2

What is the purpose of embedded audio in an SDI signal?

Accepted Answer

To carry audio channels within the video signal's ancillary data space, eliminating separate audio cables

Answer

SDI supports up to 16 channels of embedded audio in the ancillary data space (HANC/VANC), allowing a single coaxial cable to carry both video and audio.

Question 3

What does the term 'playout' refer to in modern broadcast operations?

Accepted Answer

The automated transmission of pre-produced content from a server-based system to air

Answer

Playout describes the server-based automated broadcasting of scheduled content (programs, commercials, graphics) to air, replacing tape-based transmission.

Question 4

What is the function of a comb filter in video processing?

Accepted Answer

To separate the luminance and chrominance components in a composite video signal

Answer

A comb filter separates the Y (luminance) and C (chrominance) components of composite NTSC/PAL video by exploiting the phase relationship between lines.

Question 5

In broadcast infrastructure, what is the purpose of a patch bay (jackfield)?

Accepted Answer

To provide a centralized, flexible point for interconnecting and re-routing signals between equipment

Answer

A patch bay provides a normalized wiring point where signals flow through by default but can be easily re-routed by inserting patch cables for troubleshooting, maintenance, or special routing needs.

(CBT) Certified Broadcast Technologist Practice Test

(CBT) Certified Broadcast Technologist Practice Test

CBT Broadcast Systems & Equipment 5