Grass Valley CopperHead Pro - Manual (Page 65)

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Basic Concepts
Basic Concepts
Fiber optics and fiber optic cable are at the heart of the CopperHead Pro. The provide the
ability to multiplex and de-multiplex a variety of video, audio, and data signals to be carried
over a thin strand of fiber optic cable over long distances.
The theory and operation of Fiber Optics is beyond the scope of this document. However, it
is important to understand the different types of fiber optic cable and fiber optic cable
connectors.
Fiber Optic Cable
Fig. A-1: Tactical Fiber Optic Cable Cross-section (Tac-4 cable shown)
Tactical fiber cables are extremely strong, lightweight, and rugged cables designed for
"harsh environment" (military and commercial) deployment & retrieval applications. The
internal glass fiber optic cores are protected by a woven aramid (Kevlar) strength member,
making them able to withstand a variety of environmental hazards such as being crushed
or run-over. They are available in core counts of 1, 2, 4, 6, and 12.
CopperHead systems require a minimum of two cores. Using a totally non-metallic design
for electrical isolation; they are impervious to noise & grounding issues. Tactical Fiber can
be used in the field mounted on lightweight reels in lengths up to 2000 feet or longer
Fig. A-2: Hybrid Fiber Optic Cable Cross-section (Illustrative only)
Hybrid fiber cable has two fiber optic cores, with the addition of six copper wires, providing
for the transmission of power through the cable in order to provide power to the camera.
These copper wires increase the size (diameter) and weight of the cable, and make the
cable more fragile than Tactical cable, as well as making them susceptible to noise and
grounding issues.