With the continuous evolution of audio-visual technology, modern signal transmission systems are deeply integrated with higher-standard 8K video and cutting-edge machine learning technology. The delay and blurred image quality problems that were common in live events in the past are now a thing of the past. Today, when broadcasting giants broadcast international events such as the Olympics to global audiences, they pursue not only near-zero-delay image transmission, but also the desire to bring audiences a multi-perspective, seamlessly switching immersive viewing experience, which undoubtedly pushes the boundaries of broadcasting technology to new heights.
Innovation in broadcast connectors
On the stage of Integrated Systems Europe (ISE) 2020, Xilinx, a pioneer in FPGA technology, demonstrated its new broadcast and professional audio-visual (A/V) computing products that integrate machine learning capabilities. These innovations not only enable accurate encoding of faces and key features in the picture, but also give rise to gender, age recognition and gesture detection functions for smart digital signage. Even more impressive is that they can automatically track objects and crop windows, and can generate multiple high-definition images from just one 4K camera, easily coping with the rapid switching needs of live events. In addition, integrated voice recognition technology makes automatic recording possible, further improving the efficiency and flexibility of broadcast production.
The rise of fiber optic technology
Fiber optic cables are ideal for handling large-scale data transmission due to their unparalleled bandwidth advantages. Their low signal loss and excellent resistance to electromagnetic interference make them a great choice for broadcasting major sports events. The wide bandwidth not only ensures high-quality image transmission of multiple channels, but also greatly reduces the latency problem in long-distance transmission. Compared with copper wires, which attenuate signals as frequency increases, fiber optic cables are more stable, ensuring consistent signal quality.
LEMO Broadcast Connectors: The Expertise
LEMO’s 3K.93C.Y series SMPTE hybrid connectors for HDTV applications once again demonstrate its deep heritage in the broadcasting field. Serge Buechli, business development manager of LEMO SA, emphasized that the cleanliness of the fiber optic interface is crucial to the signal quality, and recommended the use of professional tools for regular cleaning, especially for connectors that are frequently plugged and unplugged. At the same time, he also pointed out the fragility of fiber optic cables and called for enhanced protection during the installation process in the venue to avoid accidental damage such as being crushed by heavy equipment.
Diverse applications of hybrid connectors
LEMO’s hybrid connectors strictly follow SMPTE technical standards and are widely used in national television stations, theaters and stadiums. Its unique contact configuration combines copper contacts and fiber optic signal contacts, which can not only power remote cameras and other equipment, but also ensure the accuracy of the signal interface. This design not only improves the overall performance of the system, but also simplifies the installation and maintenance process.
SMPTE Solutions for COAX Connectors
COAX Connectors focuses on providing high-performance SMPTE connectors for broadcasting equipment. Its 75Ω micro BNC connector series is designed for high-density applications such as HD (3G) and UHD (4K/12G) broadcasting. These connectors have been rigorously tested, with a frequency response far exceeding the SMPTE ST 2082-1 standard, and an installation density four times that of standard BNC, bringing unprecedented convenience and efficiency to the broadcasting industry.
A new chapter in coaxial cable
With the introduction of the 12G SDI standard, coaxial cable has once again become popular in the field of ultra-high-definition video transmission. The standard supports bit rates up to 12Gb/s, enabling uncompressed and delay-free 4K video transmission. The 12G broadcast-quality connectors provided by COAX Connectors not only exceed the SMPTE standard, but also have won wide market recognition for their excellent durability and ease of operation.
The future of high-density connectivity
For applications that require high-density 12G connectors, COAX Connectors’ Micro (HD) BNC connector series stands out for its compact size and efficient installation density. These connectors are equipped with a patented coupling nut locking mechanism, which allows easy connection and disconnection even in compact installation environments, providing strong support for flexible deployment and rapid assembly of broadcast equipment.
