Composite Video "HUM KILLER"

The RDL EZ-HK2 Composite Video HUM KILLER is a purpose-built interface for video ground-loop hum elimination in 75-ohm composite video paths. It provides galvanic isolation while retaining familiar RCA phono connections at the input and output. The input is ground-isolated, and output ground isolation is switch-selectable through the unit’s ground-lift control. Gold-plated connectors, a compact case, and support for portable use or permanent installation give the EZ-HK2 a focused role wherever composite-video isolation is required.

Ideal Use Cases

The EZ-HK2 is intended for composite-video signal paths affected by ground-loop hum. It can be placed between equipment connected through RCA composite-video cabling when galvanic isolation is needed. Its portable-use capability suits temporary setups, while its permanent-installation capability supports systems where the isolation device remains in the signal path. The 1/6-rack-width mounting size also makes it suitable for integration into space-conscious equipment arrangements.

Why Choose This Model

This model combines 75-ohm composite-video galvanic isolation with a switch-selectable ground lift for the output jack. That configuration provides direct control over output ground isolation rather than limiting the installation to a single fixed grounding arrangement. Both the input and output use RCA phono jacks, and the connectors are gold-plated. The unit accepts and delivers nominal 1 V p-p composite video, matching the listed signal level on both sides of the device.

The EZ-HK2 also uses a passive circuit with unity nominal gain. This keeps its purpose centered on isolation and signal passage rather than level amplification. Its specified video bandwidth extends from 40 Hz to greater than 5 MHz, providing the listed low- and high-video-frequency response required for composite-video operation.

Installation and Integration

Integration is based on a straightforward input-to-output RCA phono connection. The input accepts nominal 1 V p-p composite video and presents a 75-ohm input impedance. The output supplies nominal 1 V p-p composite video with a 75-ohm output impedance. The ground-lift switch controls the switch-selectable output ground isolation, allowing the grounding configuration to be selected at the unit.

The case measures 2.9 inches (7.4 cm) wide by 3 inches (7.6 cm) deep. Its mounting size is specified as 1/6 rack width. These dimensions support both portable placement and permanent system integration. Front- and rear-panel diagrams are available in American DXF format, and the available CAD files include an engineering functional block in American DXF format.

Performance Highlights

The EZ-HK2 provides a ground-isolated composite-video input and galvanic isolation for a 75-ohm signal path. Input and output impedances are each rated at 75 ohms, while both signal levels are specified at 1 V p-p nominal. Gain is unity nominal through the passive circuit. The 40 Hz to greater than 5 MHz video bandwidth covers the model’s specified operating range and supports its stated excellent low- and high-video-frequency response.

Switch-selectable output ground isolation is the central operational feature. Together with the ground-isolated input, it addresses the grounding relationship between connected composite-video devices while preserving the unit’s RCA-based signal path.

What Makes It Different

The defining combination is galvanic composite-video isolation, a selectable output ground lift, and compact RCA connectivity in one dedicated device. The EZ-HK2 is not described as a converter, amplifier, or video processor; its listed unity nominal gain and passive circuit keep the emphasis on ground-loop hum elimination. Gold-plated input and output connectors add to the physical connection design, while the portable-or-permanent installation format allows the same model to serve more than one deployment style.

Final Assessment

The RDL EZ-HK2 is a specialized solution for 75-ohm composite-video ground-loop hum elimination. Its ground-isolated input, switch-selectable output isolation, RCA phono connections, unity nominal gain, and greater-than-5-MHz upper bandwidth provide a clearly defined technical profile. For composite-video systems requiring a compact passive isolation device, the EZ-HK2 delivers the specified functions without adding unrelated signal-processing features.