The Blackmagic Camera Fiber Converter connects a URSA Broadcast or URSA Mini to a studio or OB truck over a single SMPTE hybrid fibre cable, carrying video, camera control, talkback and camera power together at distances up to 2 km. It pairs with the Blackmagic Studio Fiber Converter at the other end of the link, using a compact IP video based design that delivers one Ultra HD camera feed plus three HD return feeds, and puts common live camera controls on the rear of the camera.

Mounting and camera connection

The converter mounts to the camera with the included bracket and connects over three short 12G-SDI cables, also included, for both URSA Mini and URSA Broadcast. The camera feed input is 12G-SDI with Ultra HD standards up to 2160p60, while a 3G-SDI camera return feed and three 3G-SDI return outputs bring programme and other sources back to the camera position. SDI connections switch automatically between HD, 3G, 6G and 12G-SDI.

Talkback and audio

Talkback follows standard television industry practice, with two 5-pin XLR headset connections, a three-way audio mixer per output and a dedicated tracker output. Two 3-pin XLR analogue inputs switch between AES, line and mic, with phantom power available, and audio runs at the television standard 48 kHz with 24-bit A/D conversion.

Video standards and compliance

Video is 10-bit 4:2:2 in Rec 709 or Rec 2020, with HD standards from 720p50 through 1080i60 including PsF rates. SDI compliance covers SMPTE 259M, 292M, 296M, 372M, 424M Level B and 425M.

Configuration

A USB-C port and the included Camera Utility handle firmware updates from Mac or Windows.