K Terms

Kbps: Kilobits per second: Thousand bits per second

KHz: Kilohertz: Thousand Hertz

Key Clip, Gain, Density: Also called "Clip," in switcher terminology, the process of fine-tuning a key of any type (luminance, linear, or chroma). Clipping sets the threshold for the hole-cutting circuitry, while "gain" defines the range and sensitivity of adjustment. The "density" is the transparency or opacity of the key, as revealed over a background. A hole will be cut in the Background video in any location where the Foreground luminance level is greater than the clip level. "Fill" video replaces the holes.

Key Fill: The video which fills the hole cut by the keying circuitry. Typically, switchers provide a variety of choices for the fill source — internal mattes, external video, or "self" fill are several examples.

Key Mask: A key modification system that protects a portion of the foreground video from being keyed. Most switchers allow you to mask keys with the internal pattern system and associated modifiers.

Key Signal: The signal that electronically cuts the hole in the Background video signal. Key signals can be switcher-generated or originate from external sources such as the DME or character generators.

Keying: The process of superimposing video from one source (the Foreground) on top of another source (the Background). A variety of key "types" are available in most switchers, including Self Key, Linear Key, Chroma Key, and Key Mask.

Ku-band: Higher powered DBS satellite service operating in the 11.7-13.2 GHz band of frequencies.