This high-density, robust fiber optic patch panel is engineered for professional broadcast, film production, and demanding live event environments. It seamlessly integrates the rugged, quick-disconnect convenience of SMPTE (FXW) connectors with the high-performance, standardized interface of LC duplex fiber optic ports. Housed in a standard 19-inch rack-mountable chassis, this panel provides a reliable and organized central patching point for signal distribution between cameras, OB vans, and central routing equipment.
Description
This assembly is a complete fiber optic interconnection solution designed for 2RU (2U Rack Unit) space. The front panel features 8 ports of industry-standardrobust SMPTE-compliant (Type FXW) connectors, providing a clean and familiar interface for connection to your core routing and processing gear. The end of the cable is equipped with an equal number of LC connectors. These are pre-terminated via factory-installed and tested fiber optic pigtails, which are spliced or connected internally to other devices.
The unit is constructed from durable materials, typically aluminum, to ensure longevity and effective heat dissipation. It is designed to withstand the physical demands of mobile production trucks and broadcast facilities, offering a secure and organized method for managing hybrid fiber links.
Key Features
● Hybrid Interface Solution: Provides a critical link between field equipment with SMPTE (FXW) connectors and fixed installation equipment using standard LC duplex connections.
● Rugged SMPTE (FXW) Connectors: Features the broadcast-standard SMPTE 304M-type connector, known for its robust locking mechanism, excellent EMI shielding, and resilience against vibration, moisture, and physical shock. The quick-release bayonet coupling allows for fast and secure camera connections in the field.
● High-Density LC Duplex Ports: The front panel offers multiple LC duplex adapter ports, maximizing port density in a 1RU space and enabling efficient connection to routers, switches, and other core infrastructure.
● Factory-Terminated & Tested Pigtails: All fiber pigtails are assembled and 100% tested in a controlled factory environment to ensure optimal optical performance, low insertion loss, and high return loss, guaranteeing reliability upon delivery.
● Durable 19″ Rack Design: Built to fit a standard 19-inch equipment rack (1RU height), the chassis is constructed from high-grade steel or aluminum for strength, durability, and effective EMI protection.
● Excellent Cable Management: The panel includes built-in strain relief and cable management features for the SMPTE pigtail cables, protecting the delicate fibers from damage due to pulling or bending.
● Flexible Fiber Options: Available with single-mode (OS2) to suit various transmission distance and bandwidth requirements.
Applications
This SMPTE to LC Rack Mount Panel is ideal for a wide range of high-performance audio/video and broadcast applications, including:
● Outside Broadcast (OB) Vans and Trucks: Serving as the primary fiber interface point for connecting camera triax/fiber backpacks to the central video router and production switcher inside the truck.
● Studio Production Systems: Providing a permanent and organized patch point in a studio‘s central apparatus room for studio cameras and other fiber-based equipment.
● Live Event Production: Deploying in temporary fly-packs or equipment racks to manage fiber connections for multi-camera setups at concerts, sports events, and corporate broadcasts.
● Broadcast Facilities Infrastructure: Acting as a permanent patch panel in master control rooms or distribution frames for signal routing and distribution.
● Military & Aerospace Simulation: Where ruggedized fiber connections are required for high-data-rate video and data transmission in demanding environments.
