Fibre-Optic Transport
STUDIO TECHNOLOGIES LIVE-LINK REMOTE CAMERA INTERFACE SYSTEM

Live-Link Remote Camera Interface System - Live-Link Remote Camera Interface System

Introduction

Designed to handle news, sports, and other day-to-day remote interfacing needs with ease, the Live-Link remote camera interface system offers a comprehensive fiber-optic-connected solution for transporting video, audio, intercom, and data between a remote camera location and a truck or control room. The point-to-point system is comprised of a portable Camera End Unit and either a portable or rack-mounted Control Room Unit. The units interconnect using two strands of single-mode fiber-optic cable and allow a maximum distance of 10 km. The system provides full support for digital and analog video, on-air and cue audio, 2-channel intercom, 10/100 Ethernet, RS-232/RS-422 async data, and GPI/GPO.

An intuitive connector layout, clear labeling, and numerous status indicators ensure speedy setup. Featuring the rugged opticalCON® DUO fiber-optic connector from Neutrik®, Live-Link is a reliable and convenient way of connecting a production camera crew to an ENG or OB van, SNG vehicle, or production trailer. Live-Link's portability and ease-of-deployment make it an ideal infrastructure solution for studio complexes, arenas, and campus environments.

Live-Link Camera End Unit

The Live-Link Camera End Unit goes where the action is. Weighing less than 11 pounds (5 kg) the unit is truly portable. And with its rugged aluminum housing it's built to withstand the rigors of field use. The intuitive I/O panel uses industry-standard connectors: BNC for digital and analog video, 3-pin XLR for audio and intercom, RJ45 for Ethernet, and 9-pin D-Sub for async data. Status indicators and multi-segment audio level meters make setup and use a simple process. The 2-channel party-line intercom interface provides DC power for direct connection of intercom belt packs. The Ethernet interface features an auto MDI/MDI-X input eliminating the need for crossover cables. An Anton/Bauer battery mount allows for battery-powered operation. A maximum power draw of 30 watts allows battery operating time of four hours or greater. As an alternate to battery operation a source of 10-18 volts DC can be connected.

Live-Link Control Room Unit

Typically residing in an ENG truck or at a control room location, Live-Link's Control Room Unit serves as the I/O panel for signals going to and from the Camera End Unit. Two single-mode optical fibers carry three wavelengths of optically multiplexed signal between the units. All video, audio, and data inputs and outputs use standard connectors. Multiple LEDs provide audio, video, and system status information. The Control Room Unit is available in a portable or rack-ready version. The portable version can be powered by 10-18 Vdc or via battery using the Anton/Bauer mount. Consuming a maximum of 20 watts, battery operation in excess of six hours is easily achieved. The rack-ready version is optimized for use in permanent (fixed or mobile) installations. Using the optional Live-Link rack enclosure, one or two units can be mounted in three spaces (3U) of a standard equipment rack.

Certain applications may require a 2-wire party-line circuit to be interfaced with the Control Room Unit's 4-wire interface. The Studio Technologies' Model 45 Interface will provide an excellent resource for that function.