Canford launched a fibre optic multiplexing transport system at IBC. The device can multiplex up to eight 3G/HD/SDI signals into a single SM (single mode) optical fibre as standard and up to 16 when two systems are linked. The effect is to simplify and extend cable runs whilst simultaneously reducing costs. The system has already been deployed in major broadcasting events including the London Olympics.
Canford's fibre transport system is available in two configurations, either eight in a single direction or four each way in the bi-directional option. For the standard single direction system a transmitter and a receiver are supplied and are both 1U devices. The bi-directional system consists of two transceivers which are also housed in 1U cases. Each version of the system is also available in high or low wavelength band options and the lower band avoids the water peak wavelength to maintain maximum transmission lengths.
All transmitters, receivers and transceivers have optical expansion ports so that two systems can be combined to provide transport of sixteen SDI signals in one direction or eight in both directions over a single optical fibre. All of the units' SDI ports are fully re-clocked automatically and have automatic rate detection so that jitter caused by long coaxial runs will not affect the maximum optical run-length and vice versa.
A front panel OLED screen displays optical power, SDI signal presence, temperature and system voltages. Alarms can be set up to trigger an audible tone or relay contact-closure, giving peace of mind when it comes to detecting and resolving distance, grounding and interference issues.
The systems are all available ready mounted in ‘racked’ flight cases where portability is an important factor. The flightcase version may be specified with adapter panels which can be front or rear mounted to interface between the unit's ST fibre connection and deployable rugged fibre including SMPTE 311/304, Neutrik opticalCON, Stratos/Tyco Pro-Beam/Telecast MX expanded beam and many other systems.
The Fibre Multiplexing Transport System has already been extensively trialled in the field by one of the UK's leading OB specialists and was deployed during the London Olympics and the celebrations in London to mark Queen Elizabeth II's Diamond Jubilee both of which received Worldwide coverage.