Grass Valley 3400 CopperHead - Manual (Page 12)

6
System Overview
Fiber Cable Concepts
Fiber Cable Concepts
Fiber Optics and Fiber Optic Cable are the core technologies at the heart of the Grass Valley
CopperHead 3400 Transceiver System. It provides the ability to multiplex and de-multiplex
a variety of video, audio, and data signals that can be carried over a thin strand of fiber optic
cable for long distances. The theory and operation of Fiber Optics is beyond the scope of
this document, but it explains the different types of Fiber Optic Cables and Fiber Optic
Cable Connectors.
Fiber Optic Cable
Tactical Fiber Cables are extremely strong, lightweight, and rugged cables designed for
“harsh environment” (military and commercial) deployment & retrieval applications.
Fig. 2-1: Tactical Fiber Optic Cable Cross-section
Tactical Fiber cable is heavy duty, Kevlar protected and capable of carrying CopperHead
signals extended distances. The cable can generally withstand a variety of environmental
hazards such as being crushed or run-over. Tactical Fiber can be used in the field mounted
on Portable Fiber Reels in lengths up to 2000 feet.
Hybrid Fiber Cable has the same Fiber Optic characteristics with the addition of copper
cables. This allows the transmission of power through the cable.
Fig. 2-2: Hybrid Fiber Optic Cable Cross-section
This increases weight and reduces operating distance. Hybrid Fiber Cable also includes a
pair of Sense/Signal wires that allow systems to determine if there is an open or shorted
cable. Hybrid Fiber Cable is also larger in diameter then Tactical Fiber Cable.