IBC 2017: MultiDyne reveals new high-density fiber transport frame
MultiDyne Fiber Optic Solutions (Stand 11.D40) will address the growing need for higher signal density, format flexibility and operational versatility in a fiber transport frame with the VF-9000, a compact 1RU solution available in 18- and 36-channel versions to be introduced at IBC2017 at the RAI Amsterdam, September 15-19.
The higher signal density is for customers working in ENG, sports production and other applications with high channel counts. Users can support up to 36 video signal conversions across HD, 3Gb/s and 12G from one unit, with automatic configuration of all inputs and outputs based on several parameters. For example, in dual-transmit mode, each front-panel optical module (SFP) immediately converts the two corresponding BNC copper connections on the back panel to video inputs. In dual-receiver mode, the corresponding BNCs automatically convert to video outputs.Transceiver SFPs are also supported for maximum operational flexibility.
From there, users can mix any combination of optical and copper connections to achieve the desired balance of inputs and outputs. The VF-9000 automatically recognizes the SFP module connections, and transitions to the proper configuration upon coming online. A robust multiplexer feature combines 18 signals over one single-mode fiber for efficient, high-density signal transport.
And unlike similar fiber transport frames, users aren’t limited to video: VF-9000 systems can easily mix in audio, Ethernet, reference and other data signals based on specifications at the time of order, with plans to enable hot-swappable functionality for any card and SFP in future releases. Likewise, the VF-9000 strengthens operational versatility by enabling signal regeneration and wavelength shifting within the same frame. A web-based GUI ensures visibility of signal health and conversion status across all inputs and outputs, as well as internal parts such as fans and power supplies.
The VF-9000 also differentiates itself from competitive systems by offering two hot- swappable AC power supplies to establish redundancy, eliminating the need to worry about external power supplies in fast-paced live production environments.
“The VF-9000 comes to market to fill a void in bulk signal transport between mobile production trucks, studios, venues and other facilities,” says Frank Jachetta, president, MultiDyne. “It is a very simple yet intuitive system for brute-force signal trunking and transport, with the versatility to handle almost any mix of signals the user can dream of. And its intrinsic scalability as a frame means it can become part of a larger fiber transport system as needed, such as with our FiberNet solution. MultiDyne continues to innovate new solutions that remove virtually any limitations of fiber transport.”