Fiber Optic Design Guide 2nd Edition

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TABLE OF CONTENTS
Fiber Optics for AV Professionals
Fiber Optics for Professional AV Systems . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2

Fiber Optic Tutorial . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8
Fiber Optic AV Signal Distribution . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 25
Fiber Optic AV System Design . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 44
Fiber Optic System Designs
Digital Signage . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 52
Sports Stadium . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 54
Campus Technology . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 56
Knowledge Wall . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 58
Courtroom of the Future . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 60
Performing Arts Center . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 62
Extron Fiber Optic Product Solutions
Extenders . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 66
Distribution Amplifiers . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 78
Switchers . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 79
Signal Processors . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 80
Matrix Switchers . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 81
Cables, Connectors, and Accessories . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 87
Standards, Glossary, and FAQs
Standards for Fiber Optic Cables . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 91

Fiber Optic Glossary . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 95
Frequently Asked Questions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 106
www.extron.com 1
Fiber Optics for Professional AV Systems
What is Fiber Optics? college campuses, throughout sports stadiums,

Fiber optics is a transmission method for carrying and between floors in large office buildings.
video, voice, or data from one point to another
in the form of light over a glass fiber. Simply put, Future-Proof AV Systems for Today and
the electrical signals carrying the information are Tomorrow
converted to light using a light source, and then The transition from analog to digital video
transmitted down a glass fiber to a receiver that technologies introduces high-speed, multi-
converts the light back into an electrical signal gigabit digital signals into AV systems. Supporting
using a photodetector. these high-speed digital signals requires a new
Fiber optic cable is a approach. Many system designers and integrators
low-loss channel that Why Use Fiber Optics in AV are turning to a fiber optic infrastructure for its
enables transmission Applications? high-speed capability to carry large amounts of
The combination of light and glass presents some information. Fiber optic cabling has the capacity
of high resolution unique properties that give AV professionals to support today’s high resolution, digital video
video, audio, and powerful tools in common AV applications. signals, and even higher resolution signals in the
control signals over A fiber optic cable can be used to send high future.
very long distances. resolution video, audio, and control signals on a
single fiber over 30 km (18.75 miles), without loss Fiber optic cables can easily carry high resolution
or degradation, no hum of a ground loop, and video, audio, and control signals over extremely
completely free of electrical interference. long distances with plenty of bandwidth to spare.
Installing fiber optic cables creates an AV system
Send High Resolution Video, Audio, and that meets the demands of today’s HD systems
Control over Extreme Distances and provides a path for future expansion. Fiber’s
Fiber optic cable is a low-loss channel that extremely high bandwidth ensures that future
enables transmission of high resolution video, applications can be addressed with today’s fiber
audio, and control signals over very long installations.
distances. Losses in fiber optic cable are 0.4 to
3.5 dB/km, compared to 60 dB/km for legacy Multiple AV Signals on a Single Fiber
RG6 coaxial cable at 100 MHz. The low-loss Fiber optic cables have the capacity to carry
nature of singlemode fiber enables transmission multiple AV signals on a single fiber, reducing
of WUXGA 1920x1200 video signals up to 30 km the number of required cables. A single fiber
(18.75 miles) as shown in Figure 1. Fiber is being can be used to transmit a high resolution HDMI,
used to transmit signals between buildings on DVI, or RGBHV video signal, stereo audio, and
RS-232 control, replacing five bulky coaxial, two
audio, and one or more control cables. Replacing
multiple cables with a single fiber simplifies
Figure 1. installation and reduces the number of cable
Relative Cable Lengths for Transmitting DVI Video Signals terminations. Fewer terminations save installation
time and potentially reduce labor costs.
Standard How Far Can You Transmit

10 m
HDMI/DVI Cable 1920 x 1200 Video Signal? Easier to Install than Coaxial Cable
Twisted Pair 100 m The very light weight and small size of a fiber optic
Multimode
Fiber 2,000 m cable translates into an easier installation. Fiber
Singlemode 30 km! consumes very little space in conduit and cable
Fiber
trays, and is easy to pull. An Extron plenum-rated
duplex fiber optic cable transmits a high-
resolution video signal but is only a fraction of the
2 Extron Fiber Optic Design Guide
Figure 2. Safe for Sensitive and Hazardous Today’s field
Cable Size Comparison
Environments termination kits
Fiber optic cable is largely comprised of glass,
0.792 in 0.25 in 0.16 in makes fiber as easy
which does not carry electrical current, radiate
energy, or produce heat or sparks. Optical fibers to terminate as other
can be safely installed in hazardous environments, types of cabling.
including oil refineries, mining operations, or
Extron RG6-5 Unshielded Extron OM4 MM P
Five Conductor
RG6 Super High
Twisted Pair
Cable
Bend-Insensitive
Laser Optimized chemical plants, without the danger of generating
Resolution Cable Duplex Multimode
Fiber Optic Cable an electrical spark. Applications using sensitive
electronics, such as medical environments, also
benefit from the lack of electrical emissions with
size of a coaxial cable. The RG6-5 coaxial cable fiber optic systems.
shown in Figure 2 can carry one RGBHV signal,
while the depicted fiber can carry an HDMI, DVI, Send Sensitive Information over Secure AV
or RGBHV high-definition video signal along with Systems
audio and bidirectional RS-232 control using All copper cables, including coaxial and
Extron all-digital technology. Fiber’s small size twisted pair cables, emit small amounts of
has lead to its popularity in medical applications electromagnetic radiation. An eavesdropper
where there is often insufficient space for thicker can go undetected, picking up the faint signals
cables. to intercept sensitive information as shown in
Figure 3.
Today’s field termination kits make fiber as easy to
terminate as other types of cabling. Simply strip, Fiber optic cables transmit light, so the lack of
cleave, and insert the fiber into the connector electrical emissions makes it virtually impossible
using modern connectivity systems such as the to eavesdrop on a fiber optic cable without
Extron Quick LC Fiber Optic Connectors and physically altering the cable. Intercepting
Fiber Termination Kit. Portable splicing tools are an optical signal requires interrupting the
also available to permanently join two optical transmission by breaking into the line and splitting
fibers together, creating a high quality, reliable the optical signal, which is very easy to detect.
splice in minutes. This helps to create a secure channel, and makes
Figure 3.
Copper Cables Emit Electrical Signals While Fiber Optic Cables Have Zero Emissions
Eavesdropper Eavesdropper
Copper Cable Fiber Cable
www.extron.com 3
Modern fiber optic it very hard for someone to intercept the signal. extreme distances that can span hundreds or
termination tools The ability to secure signals over fiber has led even thousands of kilometers.
national agencies to require the use of fiber for
and training have
secure transmissions. As telecom and datacom systems were
accelerated the upgraded to fiber optics, universities, industrial
deployment of fiber Delivers Pixel-Perfect Video in Electrically parks, government facilities, and office buildings
optic AV systems. Noisy Environments installed fiber optic cables for current and future
Fiber optic cables employ an all-dielectric use. The structure of fiber networks often enables
construction, and therefore do not conduct stray fiber connections for multiple applications. Using
electrical signals. Fiber is completely immune to pre-installed fiber can provide multiple benefits to
electrical interference, see Figure 4. Immunity the end user and AV installer such as cost savings
to electrical interference allows for fiber cable associated with running cables. It can also avoid
installation in electrically “noisy” environments unnecessary demolition that may deface the
such as factory floors. It also eliminates crosstalk building or incur renovation costs. When using
in fiber bundles, which allows a large number of dark fiber, it is important to determine the type
fibers to fit into a very compact cable. of fiber, lengths of runs, and the optical losses
to ensure selection of the right equipment, and
Eliminates Ground Loops in AV Systems to verify that the fiber is suitable for transmitting
The transmission of light down a glass fiber does video.
not require a ground reference or return path, see
Figure 5. The lack of the signal ground eliminates Depending on the network topology, accessing
video hum bars, and the annoying, low frequency existing fiber networks may be as simple as
hum that often accompanies audio signals. adding an interconnect cable to an existing
patch panel. If the fiber network was installed in
Dark Fiber Applications accordance with TIA/EIA standards, the network
Dark fiber refers to previously installed but is fully documented and characterized.
currently unused fiber that may be part of the
cable infrastructure called the physical plant. The Tools and Training for AV Professionals
plant refers to all cables, connectors, adapters, Modern fiber optic termination tools and training
patch panels, and splice drawers installed on have accelerated the deployment of fiber optic
a campus or in a building. It may include both AV systems. The latest fiber termination systems
fiber optic and copper cables that are used for simplify the installation of fiber optic cables and
the various communications, security, computer, eliminate messy epoxies. Advanced training is
and audio visual systems. Long haul optical links available that demystifies fiber optic technology,
may also include optical amplifiers, repeaters, providing AV professionals with the needed
and regenerators to support transmission over knowledge and skills to address applications
FOXBOX FOXBOX
Tx DVI Plus Rx DVI Plus
Figure 4.
POWER POWER
12V DVI-D INPUT AUDIO RS-232 12V MODE DVI-D OUTPUT AUDIO RS-232
No Interference
1.0A MAX OVER FIBER ALARM 1.0A MAX ON OVER FIBER ALARM
1 2
FOXBOX Tx DVI Plus Tx Rx 1 2 FOXBOX Rx DVI Plus Tx Rx 1 2
Fiber Optic Cables are Completely Immune to Electrical Interference Tx Rx Tx Rx

AUDIO
AUDIO
LINK
LINK
LINK
LINK
TEMP
TEMP
OVER
OVER
DVI
DVI
CONFIG CONFIG
FOXBOX Tx DVI Plus OPTICAL FOXBOX Rx DVI Plus OPTICAL
Fiber Cable
No
Signal
FOXBOX FOXBOX Interference
Tx DVI Plus Rx DVI Plus
POWER POWER
12V DVI-D INPUT AUDIO RS-232 12V MODE DVI-D OUTPUT AUDIO RS-232
No Interference
1 2
Tx Rx Tx Rx
AUDIO
AUDIO
LINK
LINK
LINK
LINK
TEMP
TEMP
OVER
OVER
DVI
DVI
CONFIG CONFIG
FOXBOX Tx DVI Plus OPTICAL FOXBOX Rx DVI Plus OPTICAL
Copper Cable
Fiber Cable
No
Signal
Figure 5. Extron fiber optic
Fiber Cabling Does Not Require Shielding or Return,
Eliminating Ground Loops products provide
integrators and system
designers with the
Signal Circuit 2
Conductor
Signal Shield VNoise most complete fiber
Circuit 1
optic product offering
Shield
in the industry.
Shield
Ground Ground
Ground Loop
Not at Earth
Ground
VGround
Earth Ground
Ground Reference
Fiber Cable Circuit 2
OVER FIBER REMOTE FOX Tx AV OVER FIBER REMOTE FOX Rx AV
O
I OPTICAL U OPTICAL
N Tx Rx Tx Rx
Tx Rx T
Tx Rx Tx Rx
Tx Rx
POWER P Y/VID B-Y/C POWER P Y/VID B-Y/C
AUDIO AUDIO
12V U 12V
U
0.6A MAX L R ALARM 0.6A MAX L R ALARM
T T
S S
Circuit 1
R-Y S-VID 1 2 R-Y S-VID 1 2
FOX Tx AV FOX Rx AV
Shield Shield
Ground Ground
Not at Earth
Ground
VGround
Earth Ground
Ground Reference
best served by a fiber optic solution. Some Extron Fiber Optic Solutions
AV installers also use third-party vendors that Extron fiber optic products are designed for
specialize in fiber optic cabling and termination. end-to-end AV signal distribution over fiber optic
cabling. The complete line of fiber optic products
Many AV professionals may be reluctant to adopt for professional AV installations includes matrix
fiber technology as it can be intimidating. There switchers, switchers, distribution amplifiers, signal
is a common misconception that terminating processors, and extenders.
optical fiber is time consuming and requires
highly specialized skills. Today, fiber termination To streamline installation, the line provides a
systems have been developed that require very wide range of integrator-friendly features such
little training, and produce high quality fiber as transmission of RS‑232 control signals with
connections in less time than it takes to terminate the AV signals, industry-standard LC connectors,
a coaxial cable. the capability to trigger a notification for fiber link
loss, and availability in multimode models for
Easier-to-terminate cabling solutions and training intermediate distances and singlemode models
help to alleviate these fears and make integration for extreme distances up to 30 km (18.75 miles).
efforts much more efficient. AV professionals who
understand and embrace fiber optic technology The all-digital technology of these fiber optic
benefit from the ability to address applications products provides pixel-for-pixel performance for
that are best served by a fiber optic solution. distribution of content with the highest quality.
www.extron.com 5
FOX Series products Engineered to maximize all the benefits of fiber termination of fiber optic cables. To ensure proper
can be used for optic technology, the FOX Series products can connectivity, the Fiber Optic Test Set provides the
be used for simple point-to-point applications or tools needed to measure optical power and loss
simple point-to-point
in combination to tackle the most challenging AV throughout a fiber optic infrastructure.
applications or in system designs.
combination to tackle Benefits of fiber optic-based AV systems
the most challenging Fiber Optic Cabling, Connectors, and Tools from Extron:
Extron fiber optic cables enable transmission •M ost complete line of fiber optic product
AV system designs. solutions to meet the needs of challenging AV
of pixel-perfect video, audio, and control over
system designs
extreme distances, and are compatible with
•E
nterprise-wide distribution of HDCP-
Extron FOX Series products. Bulk cable and
compliant HDMI, DVI, multi-rate SDI, high
factory-terminated cable assemblies in various resolution RGB, and standard definition video,
lengths are available in both OM4 multimode as well as audio, USB, and RS‑232 control
and singlemode versions to fit in any application. signals over fiber optic cabling
Extron cables also feature a bend-insensitive •S
peedSwitch™ Technology provides
design for a tight bend radius with minimal exceptional switching speed for HDCP-
encrypted content
bending loss, further simplifying installation.
•T
ransmission of multiple signals on a single,
small, and lightweight cable
Fiber optic connectors and accessories include
• Immunity to outside electrical interference
fiber optic termination tools, field-installable
connectors, and fiber optic test equipment. The • Ideal for sensitive and secure environments ■
Fiber Optic Termination Kit and Quick LC Fiber
Optic Connectors enable quick and easy field

Notes
www.extron.com 7
Fiber Optic Tutorial
Fiber’s ultra-low Figure 1.

Electromagnetic Spectrum
loss and nearly
unlimited bandwidth Wavelength
are prompting its 0.0001 nm 0.01 nm 10 nm 1000 nm 0.01 cm 1 cm 1m 100 m
widespread adoption.
Gamma Rays X-rays Ultra- Infrared Radio Waves
violet
Radar TV FM AM
Visible Light
400 nm 500 nm 600 nm 700 nm
Fiber Optic Technology Properties of Light

Fiber optic technology has revolutionized Electromagnetic Spectrum
worldwide communications. As the primary Light is electromagnetic radiation that is visible to
means for long distance transmission, fiber the eye. Visible light is a very small part of the entire
optic cables carry the bulk of cable television, electromagnetic spectrum, with an approximate
Internet, and phone traffic. Fiber’s ultra-low loss wavelength range of only 400 nm to 700 nm,
and nearly unlimited bandwidth are prompting its shown in Figure 1. Each wavelength corresponds
widespread adoption, and make it ideal for high to a different color. In physics, the definition of
resolution digital video signals in AV applications. light is extended to include the ultraviolet and
This tutorial provides AV professionals with the infrared regions of the electromagnetic spectrum,
background information necessary to apply which are invisible to the human eye but exhibit
fiber optic technology to address design and properties similar to that of visible light. Optical
installation challenges. fibers transmit signals in the infrared region of the
electromagnetic spectrum.
Figure 3. Reflection
Figure 2. Refraction of a
Reflection is the change in direction of a light
Reflections on the Water Surface Light Beam
wave at an interface between two dissimilar
media so that the wave returns into the original
medium. In Figure 2, light reflecting from the
surface of the lake produces a mirror image of
the trees.
Refraction
Refraction is the change in direction of a light
wave due to a change in its speed as it passes
from one medium to another. A straw in a glass
of water appears to bend as it enters the water,
shown in Figure 3.

Figure 4. Total internal reflection
(a) Partially Reflected; (b) Total Internal Reflection
is what enables light to
Refracted be transmitted along
Ray
an optical fiber.
Light is refracted
and reflected
n=1 n=1
n = n1 n = n1
e le
gl ng
l An A
ca
Incident angle al
i ti is greater than ritic
Cr critical angle. C
Incident Reflected Incident Reflected

Ray Incident angle is Ray Ray Ray
less than critical angle.
(a) (b)
The index of refraction, or refractive index, is Optical Fiber Construction

the ratio of light velocity in a vacuum compared Plastic Optical Fiber
to its velocity in another medium such as optical Plastic optical fiber — POF, is an attractive
glass. It is a measure of the optical density of a option for many applications because of its light
material, and varies with the wavelength of light. weight, ease of use, and low cost. For example, a
TOSLINK cable is a POF that sends digital audio
Total Internal Reflection signals from a CD/DVD player to an AV receiver.
When a light wave strikes a boundary between The POF core diameter, typically 960 μm, is
two mediums of varying optical density, it is approximately 100 times larger than that of a
either reflected, refracted, or both, depending on glass fiber, shown in Figure 5. Limited bandwidth
the angle of incidence. The angle of incidence and high attenuation have relegated POF to low
is measured between the light ray and the line speed, shortrun applications.
perpendicular to the surface at the point of
incidence, called the normal. When the angle Glass Optical Fiber
of incidence is small, a small portion of the The main difference between glass optical fiber
light is reflected while the majority of the light and coaxial cable is that glass optical fiber
is refracted as shown in Figure 4(a). When the
Figure 5.
angle of incidence is sufficiently large, as shown
Plastic Optical Fiber
in Figure 4(b), an optical phenomenon called total
internal reflection occurs such that all light is Jacket
Cladding
reflected.
Core
The angle of incidence above which total internal

reflection occurs is referred to as the critical
Buffer
angle. When light strikes the interface at an Coating
angle of incidence greater than the critical angle, Cladding
all of the light is reflected. Total internal reflection Core
is what enables light to be transmitted along an 960 µm

125 µm
optical fiber. Light is reflected back and forth at an 1000 µm 9-65 µm
angle within the fiber core. Plastic Optical Fiber Glass Optical Fiber
www.extron.com 9
Fiber features ultra-low exceeds coaxial cable performance in every way. like a light bulb. LEDs that emit visible light are
attenuation and can Glass fiber features ultra-low attenuation and commonly used as indicators on electrical
can carry video signals over extreme distances. equipment, car radios, clocks, etc. LEDs used
carry video signals over
Being made of glass, the optical fiber is not in fiber optics operate in the infrared range of
extreme distances. susceptible to interference from outside electrical the electromagnetic spectrum, at 850 nm or
signals, such as from HVAC systems, and does 1300 nm, and are generally found in short-
not experience ground loops. Also, fiber does distance multimode systems.
not emit an electrical signal, which makes it very
attractive for secure transmission in government LEDs are characterized by a low to moderate
facilities. The lack of an electrical signal also power output and a wide spectral width. Since
eliminates any chance of a spark, which enables the light radiates out in all directions, LEDs are
fiber to be safely used in hazardous or explosive only used with multimode fiber to improve light
environments. coupling efficiency. The large numerical aperture
of multimode fiber ensures sufficient light from the
The Anatomy of an Optical Fiber LED is coupled into the core of the fiber.
Glass optical fibers are manufactured in a
standard 125 μm diameter. At the center of The LED’s popularity is due to its lower cost than
the glass fiber is the core. Like the conductor many other types of laser diodes. However, its
in a copper cable, the core of a fiber carries
Figure 6.
the light information from one point to another.
Anatomy of an Optical Fiber
Surrounding the core is the cladding, which has
a lower refractive index than that of the core. The
function of the cladding is to reflect the light back Secondary Buffer
into the core, keeping the light travelling down

the fiber. Together, the core and the cladding
Buffer Coating
form a solid glass fiber. A 250 µm buffer coating
Glass Fiber
is applied to the bare glass fiber during the Cladding
manufacturing process as a protective layer. Core

125 μm 250 μm 900 μm
An optional, secondary 900 μm buffer may be

added to the fiber for additional protection and Figure 7.
strength as shown in Figure 6. The secondary Light-Emitting Diodes
buffer is a harder material than the 250 µm buffer
coating, and is typically applied to fibers used in
tight-buffered indoor cables. Loose-tube outdoor Metal
cables typically use the 250 µm buffered fibers,

P
without the addition of the secondary buffer.
N
Light Sources Used in Fiber Optic AV Active Region
Metal
Systems Surface Emitting LED
Light Emitting Diode

A light-emitting diode — LED is a semiconductor Active Region
Metal
device that produces a light output when an
P
electrical current passes through it. It can be a
surface-emitting LED or an edge-emitting LED.
N
Structures of both types are shown in Figure 7.
Metal
Light from an LED radiates out in all directions Edge Emitting LED

wider spectral width, poor light coupling efficiency, up to a few kilometers. A longer wavelength The VCSEL is a laser
and low power output results in significant VCSEL, operating at 1310 nm, promises a low- diode that represents
chromatic dispersion and limits transmission cost alternative for singlemode systems, but few
a leap forward in
distances. The limited bandwidth of the LED also commercially viable devices have been produced.
curtails the maximum data rate to well under performance over the
1 Gbps. LEDs are primarily used in multimode Fabry-Perot Laser LED for multimode
systems for local area networks — LANs The FP laser depicted in Figure 10 is an edge- systems, and at a
operating up to 100 Mbps. The low performance emitting semiconductor laser diode that operates
much lower cost than
of the LED as a light source precludes its use in at 1310 nm for singlemode fiber. The edges
AV fiber optic applications. of the diode form semitransparent mirrors to FP or DFB lasers.
create a horizontal laser cavity, resulting in an
Laser Diode edge-emission light path. Since the die must be
A laser diode is a semiconductor device that cleaved from the wafer to expose the edge, the
produces coherent light within a narrow band FP laser cannot be fully tested in wafer form –
of wavelengths. Laser diodes that emit visible both good and bad diodes must be packaged
light are used in barcode scanners, Blu-ray prior to final testing. The added cost of packaging
Disc and CD/DVD players, and laser pointers. defective diodes contributes to the higher cost of
In fiber optics, laser diodes operating in the the FP laser.
infrared region are used in both multimode and
singlemode systems. Multimode systems use The FP laser produces a narrow beam of light.
vertical-cavity surface-emitting lasers — VCSELs Therefore, light coupling efficiency is extremely
operating at a wavelength of 850 nm, while high, which makes the FP laser ideal for
singlemode systems primarily use Fabry-Perot singlemode applications. Operating at 1310 nm,
— FP and distributed feedback — DFB lasers, the FP laser has a moderate output power
operating at 1310 nm and 1550 nm. and a moderate to wide spectral width. It can
operate up to 10 Gbps at distances up to tens of
Vertical Cavity Surface Emitting Laser kilometers over singlemode fiber.
The VCSEL is a laser diode that represents a
leap forward in performance over the LED for
multimode systems, and at a much lower cost
than FP or DFB lasers. The structure of a VCSEL Figure 8.
diode is shown in Figure 8. The vertical laser Vertical Cavity Surface Emitting Laser
cavity ensures that light emission is from the
surface. This allows VCSELs to be tested and
sorted while still in wafer form, saving the cost Surface Emission
Light Path
of packaging non-functional diodes. Alternatively,
edge-emitting diodes, such as FP and DFB
Metal
lasers, must be separated from the wafer and
packaged before being fully tested. P
Since the VCSEL is a laser, it produces a narrow

beam of light. Therefore, light coupling efficiency N
is extremely high with nearly all of the light focused

Metal
on the core of the fiber. Operating at 850 nm, the
VCSEL has a low to moderate output power and Active Region Mirror Stack Mirror Stack
a moderate spectral width. It can operate up
to 10 Gbps over multimode fiber at distances
www.extron.com 11
Both multimode and Distributed Feedback Laser Figure 9.

Comparison of Light Output from
singlemode fiber The DFB laser depicted in Figure 11 is an edge- Semiconductor Photonic Devices
emitting semiconductor laser diode that operates
carry high resolution
at 1310 or 1550 nm for singlemode fiber. It is
video, audio, and also available at wavelengths from 1270 through Center
Wavelength
control signals in AV 1610 nm to support coarse and dense wavelength

applications. division multiplexing. The DFB laser structure is DFB Laser
(1310 or 1550 nm)
similar to the FP laser with the addition of diffraction
Optical Power
grating. The grating provides fine tuning to create
a high-power output with a narrow spectral width FP Laser
VCSEL
(850 nm)
(1310 nm)
and a very narrow beam width.
LED (850 or
1300 nm)
As with the FP laser, the DFB laser must also be
packaged prior to final testing. The addition of the
grating and packaging prior to testing increases
the manufacturing cost of the DFB laser when
compared to costs for the VCSEL and FP laser.
Spectral Width
The narrow beam width, narrow spectral width,

and high-power output make the DFB laser ideal
for long-haul applications. It can operate up to singlemode, enabling light to travel down multiple
10 Gbps or more at distances up to 100 kilometers paths or modes, and is available in two common
and beyond, over singlemode fiber. A comparison core sizes: 50 μm and 62.5 μm. Singlemode
of the laser light output power and spectral widths fiber has a much smaller core at 9 μm, shown
for common light sources is shown in Figure 9. in Figure 12. The smaller core size allows light to
travel down only a single path in the fiber.
Fiber Optic Cable Performance
Multimode vs. Singlemode Fiber Both multimode and singlemode fiber can carry
Glass optical fiber can be classified as either high resolution video, audio, and control signals
multimode or singlemode fiber, depending in AV applications. Singlemode fiber systems tend
on the size of the core. The core is the center to have higher equipment costs than multimode
portion of the fiber that carries the optical systems, but transmit signals over much longer
signal. Multimode fiber has a larger core than distances.
Figure 10. Figure 11.

Fabry Perot Laser Distributed Feedback Laser
Active Region Active Region

Metal Metal
Edge Emission P Edge Emission

P Grating Light Path
Light Path
N N
Metal Metal
Semitransparent Semitransparent
Mirrored Ends Mirrored Ends

Attenuation in Optical Fiber through a multimode fiber tend to arrive at Multimode fiber is ideal
Glass fiber is manufactured in a controlled different times, shown in Figure 14. for transmitting high
environment to reduce impurities and minimize
resolution video within
attenuation. Attenuation is the loss of light or Similar to the effect of capacitance in coaxial
signal power, often expressed as dB/km for loss cable, modal dispersion causes light pulses to a room or between
per kilometer. Scattering and absorption are the spread out as they travel down the fiber, limiting rooms on the same
two primary causes of attenuation within a fiber. the bandwidth of multimode fiber. Graded-index floor.
multimode fiber reduces but does not eliminate
Scattering is the change of direction of light rays the effect of modal dispersion. This has led to
or photons after striking small particles, including the development of different types of multimode
the molecular structure of the glass and impurities fiber, categorized by bandwidth as summarized
within the fiber core. It is the most significant in Table 1.
source of attenuation in optical fiber. Longer
wavelengths tend to experience less scattering Singlemode fiber only allows light to travel down
than shorter wavelengths as shown in Figure 13. a single path so modal dispersion does not occur.
Because of this, singlemode fiber has extremely
Absorption is the conversion of light rays into high bandwidth, and can transmit video signals
heat as they interact with the molecular structure over several kilometers. In practical terms,
of the glass and core impurities. In general, multimode fiber is ideal for transmitting high
shorter wavelengths experience less absorption resolution video within buildings or facilities with
than longer wavelengths. However, water vapor moderate range transmission distances, while
is a common impurity that occurs in minute singlemode fiber offers long-range transmission
amounts, resulting in absorption “peaks” at very capability over extreme distances. Singlemode
specific wavelengths, shown in Figure 13. fiber is used in very large facilities such as airports
The combined effect of scattering and absorption Figure 12.

Singlemode and Multimode Glass
produces three windows in the infrared region
Optical Fiber
of the electromagnetic spectrum where light
propagates down a fiber. The first window is Singlemode Multimode
around 850 nm, the second around 1300 nm,
and the third around 1550 nm.
Fortunately, semiconductor materials have

8-10 µm ø 50 µm ø 62.5 µm ø
properties that enable light sources and 125 µm ø 125 µm ø 125 µm ø
250 µm ø 250 µm ø 250 µm ø
photodetectors to operate within these windows.
The most common wavelengths used in fiber
optic systems are as follows:
Figure 13.
Attenuation in Optical Fiber
• Multimode: 850 nm and 1300 nm
• Singlemode: 1310 nm, 1550 nm, and 1625 nm
Scattering Water Peaks Absorption
ATTENUATION
Dispersion in Fiber Optic Cables

Modal Dispersion
The larger core size of multimode fiber leads to
a phenomenon called modal dispersion. On
850 1300 1550
longer cable runs, multiple light paths traveling
WAVELENGTH
www.extron.com 13
OM4 fiber is Figure 14.

Modal Dispersion in Multimode Fiber
recommended for
new installations of Multimode Step Index Index Profile Input Pulse Output Pulse
multimode fiber. n2
n1
Multimode Graded Index
n2
n1
Singlemode Step Index
n2
n1
Table 1. Singlemode and Multimode Fiber Categories

Maximum
Fiber Core
Distance for Comments
Category Size
Video Signals*
OM1 62.5 µm 300 m Originally created for fiber optic LANs using
LED light sources running at 100 Mbps.
Popular in the US for LAN systems.
OM2 50 µm 1000 m Originally created for fiber optic LANs using
LED light sources running at 100 Mbps.
Popular in Europe for LAN systems.
OM3 50 µm 2000 m High bandwidth, laser-optimized multimode
fiber designed for laser light sources, such as
a VCSEL, in Gigabit Ethernet systems.
OM4 50 µm 2000+ m Very high bandwidth, laser-optimized
multimode fiber designed for 10 Gigabit
Ethernet. OM4 is recommended for new
installations of multimode fiber.
OS1 and 9 µm 30 km Singlemode fiber for extreme distances.
OS2
*Assumes 4.25 Gbps data rate at a wavelength of 850 nm for multimode and 1310 nm for singlemode.

Figure 15. Semiconductor laser light also contains multiple In singlemode
White light Separates into Individual Colors
wavelengths, characterized by the spectral applications, chromatic
width of the light source. Each wavelength
dispersion, along
travels at a slightly different speed down a
glass fiber, reaching the far end of the fiber at with attenuation, is
a slightly different time. Different speeds lead to a limiting factor in
pulse spreading as shown in Figure 16, which is maximum transmission
referred to as chromatic dispersion.
distances.
Chromatic dispersion is a function of wavelength.
Dispersion is higher for shorter wavelengths such
as 850 nm and lower at longer wavelengths,
reaching a zero value around 1310 nm.
Since chromatic dispersion is a function of light’s

spectral content, it occurs in both multimode
and singlemode fiber. For typical distances used
and stadiums, as well as for connecting over long in multimode applications, modal dispersion is
distances between facilities such as university usually much larger than chromatic dispersion.
campuses. As transmission distances increase with the use
of lasers and laser-optimized fiber, chromatic
Chromatic Dispersion dispersion becomes more significant. In
The speed of light through glass varies with singlemode applications, chromatic dispersion,
wavelength; the shorter the wavelength, the along with attenuation, is a limiting factor in
more quickly it travels. For example, white light maximum transmission distances.
is composed of multiple wavelengths or colors
in the visible portion of the electromagnetic • Polarization Mode Dispersion
spectrum. As it passes through a prism, the Polarization mode refers to the orientation of a
individual colors travel at different speeds, and light wave, relative to the fiber cross-section, as it
experience a varying amount of refraction. travels down an optical fiber. It is defined in terms
This produces a rainbow of colors as shown in of its vertical and horizontal components, shown
Figure 15. in Figure 17.
Figure 16.
Chromatic Dispersion
www.extron.com 15
An optical loss analysis Figure 17. is only important for very long-haul transmission
Cross Section of an Optical Fiber
is simply adding up over singlemode fiber.
the losses in the fiber Vertical

How Attenuation in Optical Fiber Affects
link, including the Video Signals
fiber, connectors, and Unlike coaxial cable, attenuation in optical fiber
splices, to confirm that does not increase with signal frequency, shown
in Figure 19. This functionality makes optical fiber
the optical loss budget Horizontal
ideal for transmitting high resolution video signals,
is not exceeded. including WUXA 1920x1200 and beyond, over very
long distances.
Typically, attenuation in multimode fiber is less than

In an ordinary fiber, light is randomly polarized, 3 dB/km at 850 nm, while attenuation in singlemode
such that it has components in both vertical fiber is less than 1 dB/km at 1310 nm. Since
and horizontal polarization modes. Because of attenuation in RG6 coaxial cable is approximately
imperfections in the glass or stresses on the fiber 62 dB/km at 100 MHz, fiber is the optimal choice
optic cable, the speed of light in the horizontal for transmitting high resolution video over extreme
mode is slightly different from that of the vertical distances.
mode. As shown in Figure 18, this causes light
in the various modes to arrive at different times. The system designer must ensure that the amount
of light reaching the receiver has enough power to
The phenomenon of light traveling at different exceed the receiver’s sensitivity by performing an
speeds due to the polarization mode is referred optical loss analysis. An optical loss analysis is
to as polarization mode dispersion — PMD. simply adding up the losses in the fiber link, including
PMD occurs in both multimode and singlemode the fiber, connectors, and splices, to confirm that
fiber, but has less significance when compared to the optical loss budget is not exceeded.
modal or chromatic dispersion. Therefore, PMD
In an attempt to improve the available loss budget
or compensate for poor receiver sensitivity, some
Figure 18.
Polarization Mode Dispersion manufacturers design transmitters with output
power that surpasses a receiver’s maximum input
rating. To avoid non-linear effects and potential
equipment damage in these types of products, an
inline optical attenuator may be required for shorter
fiber runs.
Extron fiber optic products are designed to achieve

the full loss budget without exceeding the maximum
input rating of fiber optic components, eliminating
the need for external attenuators.
∆t
How Dispersion Affects Fiber Optic

Transmission
Dispersion in fiber optic cable is similar to
capacitance in coaxial cabling. Pulse spreading

Figure 19. Attenuation and
Attenuation in Fiber Optic Cables Compared to Coaxial Cable
dispersion limit the
600 maximum transmission
500 distance in a fiber optic
Attenuation in dB/km
400 system.
300
3 dB/Km
200
1 dB/Km
100
0 500 1000 1500 2000 2500 3000

Signal Frequency in MHz
RG59 RG6 Low-Loss Multimode Fiber Singlemode Fiber

Coaxial Cable Coaxial Cable (850 nm) (1310 nm)
leads to intersymbol interference — ISI, and limits specifications typically take dispersion into
the distance a signal at a given data rate can travel consideration, an optical loss analysis is still
down a fiber. ISI occurs when adjacent pulses in a valuable to ensure that the optical loss budget
digital signal overlap as shown in Figure 20. is not compromised. Table 2 summarizes design
considerations for fiber optic AV systems,
The original digital signal in Figure 20(a) has comparing coaxial and fiber optic cables.
well-defined edges with clearly identifiable ones
and zeroes; the corresponding eye diagram is Bending Loss in Fiber Optic Cable
wide open. After the signal passes through a Fiber optic cable is susceptible to two types of
long length of fiber, dispersion causes pulses loss from bending: macrobend and microbend.
to spread and overlap. Figure 20(b) shows the
effect of dispersion on the individual pulses.
The resulting waveform in Figure 20(c) exhibits
Figure 20.
reduced peak-to-peak amplitude without clearly Pulse Spreading and Intersymbol Interference
defined logic levels. The corresponding eye
diagram is almost completely closed.
Attenuation and Dispersion in Fiber Optic AV

System Design
Attenuation and dispersion limit the maximum
transmission distance in a fiber optic system.
Manufacturers of fiber optic AV equipment specify A Original
waveform and 0 1 0 1 0 1 0 1 0
maximum transmission distances to account for eye diagram
dispersion effects within the fiber, avoiding the

need for complex bandwidth calculations or B Pulse
spreading and
analysis. overlapping
In analog systems using coaxial cable, level and C Resulting

waveform and
peaking can be used to compensate for losses eye diagram
in the cable. However, no such compensation

exists for optical fiber. Although manufacturers’
www.extron.com 17
OM4 laser optimized A macrobend is a large bend in a fiber cable that

exceeds the allowable bend radius, and results
Macrobend Loss
multimode fiber is a
in attenuation due to less-than-total reflection
high-performance
at the core-to-cladding boundary. Macrobends
fiber, designed for laser cause light to refract into the cladding, allowing
light sources, such the light to escape as shown in Figure 21. As a
as VCSELs, which general rule, no fiber cable should be bent more
than 20 times the diameter of the cable.
transmit up to 10 Gbps Figure 21.
of data over a single Microbending is a result of microscopic
fiber. imperfections in the geometry of the fiber.
Microbend Loss
Usually, microbends are caused by a kink in the
fiber cable due to mechanical stresses, pressure,
or twisting. Improperly applied cable clamps or
zip ties can cause kinks as shown in Figure 22.
Proper cable management reduces the likelihood
of this type of loss.
Figure 22.
Modern Fiber Optic Cabling
• Bend-Insensitive Fiber
Despite the best efforts of system designers,
integrators, and installers to provide proper cable management and handling, bends and
other stresses in fiber optic cables do occur.
Table 2. Design Considerations for AV Systems Using In response, fiber manufacturers developed
Coaxial and Fiber Optic Cables bend-insensitive fiber that tolerates bends
Coaxial Cable Fiber Optic Cable and stresses without incurring additional losses.
Cable runs can be up Cable runs can be up to Extron bend-insensitive fiber optic cables are
to a few hundred feet several miles depending available in both multimode and singlemode
depending on video on fiber type and data
resolution rate
versions.
Attenuation Attenuation is constant

increases with over a wide frequency • OM4 Laser Optimized Multimode Fiber
frequency range OM4 laser optimized multimode fiber is a high-
Attenuation Attenuation increases performance fiber, designed for laser light
increases with with cable length and is sources, such as VCSELs, which transmit up to
cable length and is specified as dB/km
10 Gbps of data over a single fiber. It has a 50 µm
specified as dB/ft
core, and is manufactured to reduce modal
Cable resistance Fiber attenuation
reduces signal level reduces light power
dispersion when used with a laser light source.
and intensity over level over long distances OM4 is the highest performance fiber currently
long distances available, and is the fiber of choice for 40 Gbps
Cable capacitance Modal dispersion in and 100 Gbps data transmission standards.
reduces rise time multimode fiber spreads These standards use multi-fiber ribbon cables
and sharpness over light pulses and reduces
long distances bandwidth with each fiber transmitting 10 Gbps of data.
OM4 fiber also has the capacity to transmit high-
Level and peaking Optical losses
compensate for are added up and resolution, digital video signals over very long
resistance and compared to an optical distances, and is recommended for all newer
capacitance in long loss budget
multimode fiber installations.
cable runs

• OS2 Low Water Peak Singlemode Fiber different wavelengths along a single fiber. Multiple Time Division
Low water peak singlemode fiber is manufactured wavelengths traveling down a single fiber is Multiplexing — TDM
to eliminate absorption attenuation peaks caused similar to multiple radio signals traveling through
combines multiple
by water vapor contamination as shown in the air at different frequencies. Each wavelength
Figure 13, shown on page13. can carry a different signal that is independent digital signals into a
of the other wavelengths. Additionally, the single, serial digital bit
Removing water peaks opens up the window different wavelengths can travel in the same or stream.
of allowable wavelengths to propagate down opposite directions, enabling bidirectional optical
a fiber. OS2 fiber is designed for use in coarse communications over a single fiber as shown in
wavelength division multiplexing — CWDM Figure 24.
applications, and enables all ITU CWDM
wavelengths to be used for signal transmission. WDM can be used for any application where
multiple signals are transmitted over fiber
Multiplexing in Fiber Optic Systems optic cabling. The signals can be completely
Time Division Multiplexing independent, such as different channels in a
Time Division Multiplexing — TDM combines cable television environment, bidirectional USB
multiple digital signals into a single, serial digital or RS-232 signals, components of a multi-lane
bit stream. A specialized circuit called a serializer HDMI or DVI signal, or any combination of these.
allocates parallel input streams into time slots in As long as each signal is applied to a different
the serial output. In a fiber optic system, the serial wavelength, there is no interference between
bit stream is transmitted as a single wavelength signals.
down a single fiber. On the other end of the
channel, a deserializer reconstructs the original However, in practical WDM systems,
parallel signal from the serial bit stream, shown semiconductor lasers transmit signals over
in Figure 23. Bidirectional communications in a a range of wavelengths rather than a single
single wavelength fiber optic system using TDM wavelength. This range of wavelengths is
requires two fibers – one for each direction. characterized by a laser’s nominal wavelength
and its spectral width. In a WDM system, if the
Wavelength Division Multiplexing transmitted wavelengths of two lasers overlap,
Wavelength Division Multiplexing — WDM refers there is potential for interference and a reduced
to transmitting two or more optical signals at signal-to-noise ratio — SNR. Therefore, it is vital
Figure 23.
Serializer – Deserializer
1
Serializer
2
3 2 1
3
1
Deserializer
2
3 2 1
3
www.extron.com 19
Because CWDM Figure 24.

Wavelength Division Multiplexing
requires the use
of DFB lasers, the
WDM WDM
components are more Multiplexer/ Multiplexer/
De-Multiplexer De-Multiplexer
costly than those used E-to-O O-to-E
Input 1 Converter Converter Ouput 1
in single wavelength
E-to-O O-to-E
systems. Input 2 Converter Converter Output 2
E-to-O O-to-E
Input 3 Converter Converter Output 3
O-to-E E-to-O
Output A Converter Converter Input A
Multiple
Wavelengths
Over a Single Fiber
that the spacing between wavelengths in this refers to the generic term of transmitting multiple
type of system be sufficient to reduce interference wavelengths along an optical fiber.
between adjacent signals and to provide an
acceptable SNR. CWDM is typically used for intermediate
distances, high traffic data applications such as
Coarse Wavelength Division Multiplexing in metropolitan network systems, cable television
Coarse wavelength division multiplexing — CWDM networks, and other large broadcast networks.
is the transmission of up to 18 different optical Since CWDM wavelengths are not compatible
signals down a singlemode fiber at wavelengths with optical amplifiers, these types of systems
defined by ITU-T G.694.2. The wavelengths are are limited to a maximum transmission distance
spaced at 20 nm intervals from 1271 nm through of approximately 60 km (37.28 miles).
1611 nm as shown in Figure 25. A special device
called a CWDM multiplexer combines the multiple DFB lasers are used to create the fiber optic
wavelengths onto a single optical fiber. CWDM signal for CWDM applications. The narrow
has also been used generically to refer to any spectral width reduces interference between
WDM signal transmission with greater than 20 nm channels. The diffraction grating within the
channel spacing between wavelengths. For the device structure enables tuning a DFB laser to a
purpose of this Fiber Optic Design Guide, CWDM specific ITU CWDM wavelength. Because CWDM
refers to the ITU standard definition, and WDM requires the use of DFB lasers, the components
are more costly than those used in single
Figure 25. wavelength systems.
CWDM Wavelengths with 20 nm Channel Spacing
Dense Wavelength Division Multiplexing

Dense wavelength division multiplexing —
DWDM is the transmission of multiple optical
Optical Power
wavelengths with very tight channel spacing for

up to 160 channels at wavelengths between
1525 nm and 1610 nm. DWDM wavelengths
are compatible with optical amplifiers and other
1271 1291 1311 1331 1351 1371 1391 1411 1431 1451 1471 1491 1511 1531 1551 1571 1591 1611
Wavelength (nm)
components, and are used in ultra-long haul
telecom and data networks. A DWDM system’s
Figure 26.
A fiber plant includes
Fiber Plant
all installed fiber,
Dropped Ceiling Dropped Ceiling
splices, patch panels,
and connectors in
a structured cabling
Patch Patch
Panel
Dropped Ceiling
Panel
Dropped Ceiling
installation.
Patch Patch
Panel Panel
Plenum-rated Cable
Patch Patch
Panel Panel

Equipment Room
Patch
Panel Patch
Raised Floor
Horizontal Cable
Panel
Riser-rated Cable
Splice Splice
Box Box
Outdoor Cable
extremely tight channel spacing requires very cables are spliced onto fibers of indoor cables.
stable lasers with precision temperature controls. Splices are protected in a special enclosure called
Tending to be very costly, DWDM systems are not a splice box that contains one or more splice
used in standard AV applications. trays, shown in Figure 27.
Fiber Optic Cable Construction for AV Riser-rated fiber cables are routed between
Systems floors to provide connections from a splice box
The Fiber Plant to an equipment room, from an equipment room
A typical fiber plant for a multi-building campus is to patch panels, and between patch panels.
shown in Figure 26. The plant includes all installed Patch panels provide expedient connection for
fiber, splices, patch panels, and connectors in a horizontal cabling.
structured cabling installation. Multiple types of
fiber can be used in the plant, depending on the Figure 27.
location, with splice boxes and patch panels Splice Tray
providing convenient connection points for
transitioning from one type of cable to another.
Outdoor cables designed for harsh environments

provide building-to-building connections. A
transition from outdoor cabling to indoor cabling
is accomplished shortly after the outside cable
enters the building. Individual fibers of the outdoor
www.extron.com 21
Fiber optic cables, Figure 28. Figure 30.

Fiber Optic Cable Construction Loose Tube Fiber Optic Cables
like coaxial cables,
are available in many
types and sizes to Jacket
address a wide variety

Aramid Yarn
of applications.
Secondary Buffer
Buffer Coating
Glass Fiber
Cladding Loose Tube Ribbon Cable Loose Tube Cable
Core
Horizontal cabling provides connection from Fiber optic cables used in AV applications are
a patch panel to end user or networking strengthened with Kevlar®, the material used by
equipment. When routed through ceiling and floor the military and law enforcement for body armor.
spaces with air ducts, cables must be plenum Kevlar is the aramid yarn that forms the strength
rated. Raised flooring is often used in equipment members of fiber optic cables. It absorbs most
rooms to conveniently route horizontal cables. of the strain on the fiber, especially during pulling,
Cables routed through raised flooring are usually see Figure 28. The outer jacket provides an
required to be plenum rated. When in doubt, additional layer of protection for the entire cable.
plenum-rated cables are recommended. For a
detailed discussion on standards for plenum or Fiber optic cables, like coaxial cables, are
riser ratings, please refer to the “Standards for available in many types and sizes to address a
Fiber Optic Cables” section later in this guide. wide variety of applications. Cables are available
for both indoor and outdoor use, including direct
Basic Fiber Construction burial. They can be plenum or riser rated, and can
A common myth concerning fiber optic cable is have from one to hundreds of fibers per cable.
that it is fragile, requiring delicate handling due to
its glass core. The reality is that fiber optic cables Outdoor Cables
are designed to be as rugged as, or even more Outdoor cables are designed to withstand
rugged than, coaxial cabling. rough handling, adverse weather, and harsh

Loose Tube Cable Construction Tight-Buffered Fiber Optic Cables
Tight-Buffered Fiber Optic Cables
Outer Jacket
Polyethylene
Aramid Strength
Elements
Central E-Glass
Strength Member
Flooded Core
Simplex Cable Duplex Cable
Thermoplastic
Tube
Moisture
Blocking Gel
Multiple Breakout Cable Distribution Cable
250 Micron
Fibers
Loose Tube Detail

environments. The typical outdoor fiber optic Indoor Cables Duplex, simplex, and
cable uses loose tube construction as shown Since AV systems are typically installed within breakout cables are
in Figures 29 and 30. The glass fibers are the interior of buildings, AV installers generally
commonly terminated
well protected from moisture, stresses due to work with indoor cable constructions. Fiber optic
installation, and other hazards. The tubes and cables for indoor applications are available as by installers for
fibers are color-coded for easy identification plenum-rated and riser-rated cables, for installing interfacing to AV
during installation. Cables may be designed for in air spaces, walls, or between floors. Indoor equipment.
aerial installation from telephone poles or for cable is usually constructed with a tight buffer,
direct burial. Direct burial cables may also include as shown in Figure 31, with one or more fibers.
an armor jacket for protection from rodents. AV
systems typically do not interface directly to an In AV systems, installers are typically involved with
outdoor cable. point-to-point, interface, and horizontal cabling.
Duplex and simplex cables are often used in
Rugged Tactical Fiber Cables point-to-point and as interface connections
Tactical cables are very strong, armored cables between transceivers. Simplex cables are also
with ruggedized connectors, and are used used for patch cables. A breakout cable provides
by the military and broadcasters, shown in individually-jacketed fibers for easier termination
Figure 32. The military uses tactical fiber cables and routing of each fiber into a switching station
in combat situations to provide a highly reliable or to end user equipment. Duplex, simplex, and
communications link. Broadcasters use tactical breakout cables are commonly terminated by
fiber cables to provide a rugged, high bandwidth installers for interfacing to AV equipment. ■
link between cameras and the broadcast truck for
sporting events and electronic news gathering.
Steel armor protects the cable from being
gnawed on by rodents or run over by broadcast
vehicles and military support equipment.
Figure 32.
Loose Tube Cable Construction
Tactical Fiber Cables Are Used by the Military and Broadcasters
www.extron.com 23
Notes

Fiber Optic AV Signal Distribution
Basic Fiber Optic AV System These early attempts at employing fiber optic Transmitters support
A simple fiber optic system for extending high technology suffered from poor signal quality due digital formats,
resolution video, audio, and control signals is to optical losses and non-linearity in fiber optic
including HDMI, DVI,
shown in Figure 1. The transmitter converts the systems. Losses in fiber optic cables degraded
video signal from the laptop into a series of light the signal‑to‑noise ratio and made cable and multi-rate SDI,
pulses. The light pulses travel down the optical compensation difficult. The optical-to-electrical or analog formats
fiber cable to the receiver, which converts the — O-to-E conversion process also introduced such as RGBHV,
light pulses back to a video signal for the display. non-linear effects that further distorted analog
HD component, and
Transmitters support digital formats, including signals. Digital transmission eliminates these
HDMI, DVI, and multi-rate SDI, or analog formats adverse effects. standard definition
such as RGBHV, HD component, and standard video.
definition video. If an analog format is used, the Converting Video, Audio, and Control Signals
transmitter converts the analog signal to a digital into an Optical Signal
signal before sending it down the fiber. An optical transmitter converts electrical signals,
including video, audio, and/or control, into one
How Fiber Optic AV Transmitters and or more serial digital streams of light pulses
Receivers Work for transmission along optical fiber. Common
Analog vs. Digital Transmission multiplexing techniques include time division
Current fiber optic extenders, such as the multiplexing — TDM and wavelength division
Extron FOX Series, digitize analog video and multiplexing — WDM.
audio signals prior to optical conversion. Digital
transmission avoids the effects fiber optic losses • Time Division Multiplexing
and nonlinearity can have on analog signals. A transmitter can use TDM to combine multiple
Extron’s all digital technology ensures pixel-for- signals into a serial digital stream. Video, audio,
pixel performance for high resolution HDMI, and control signals are multiplexed and serialized
DVI, multi-rate SDI signals, USB, RGBHV, HD in the electrical domain. The serial digital stream is
component video, and standard definition converted to an optical signal using an electrical-
composite, component, and S-video. to-optical converter.
First generation fiber optic extenders from other The transmitter in Figure 2 accepts DVI video,
companies used a direct conversion of analog stereo audio, and RS-232 control signals.
video signals to analog fiber optic signals. The multiplexer combines the signals as a
Figure 1.
Basic Fiber Optic AV System
TouchLink™
Control System
Extron SI 28
TCP/IP Speakers
Extron XPA 1002
IPL 250
1
COM
TX RX
IR INPUT RELAY
100
®
Stereo Power Amplifier
1 3 1 3 1 3
R 2 LINK
3 ACT
2 4 2 4 2 4
100-240V 1.3A, 50-60Hz

XPA 1002
Fiber Optic Fiber Optic RS-232 LEVEL INPUTS

CLASS 2 WIRING
REMOTE OUTPUT
1 2 1 2
Receiver
1 2 10V 50 mA
Transmitter LIMITER/ VOL/MUTE

1 2
PROTECT
SIGNAL
0 0
POWER RGB INPUT POWER MODE RGB OUTPUT STANDBY
12V 12V AUDIO RS-232
AUDIO RS-232 1.0A MAX
ON
1.0A MAX OVER FIBER ALARM OVER FIBER ALARM
1 2
FOXBOX Tx VGA Tx Rx 1 2 FOXBOX Rx VGA Tx Rx 1 2
Tx Rx Tx Rx
AUDIO
LINK
LINK
TEMP
OVER
AUDIO
LINK
LINK
TEMP
OVER
RGB
RGB
CONFIG CONFIG
FOXBOX Tx VGA OPTICAL FOXBOX Rx VGA OPTICAL
Fiber Cable
www.extron.com 25
Transmitting a single Figure 2 .

TDM Fiber Optic Transmitter and Receiver
serial digital stream
also provides tightly
controlled timing Serializer Deserializer
over long distances, Clock Clock
eliminating the need to TMDS 2 TMDS 2
adjust for skew. TMDS 1 TMDS 1

E-to-O O-to-E
Converter Converter
TMDS 0 TMDS 0
DATA DATA
A-to-D D-to-A
AUDIO Converter Converter AUDIO
Transmitter Receiver
serial stream of digital pulses. An electrical-to- In a TDM system, each fiber carries one optical
optical — E‑to‑O converter changes the digital signal at a single wavelength. Therefore,
pulses to light pulses at a single wavelength for bidirectional communication requires two fibers
transmission down a single fiber. – one for each direction.
Managing a single digital signal over a single • Wavelength Division Multiplexing

fiber simplifies the design of an AV system. WDM is the combination of two or more optical
Switching and distribution systems only need signals at different wavelengths for transmission
to manage a single digital signal per input or within a single optical fiber. In AV systems, WDM
output. Therefore, fiber optic matrix switchers is used for sending video, audio, and control
tend to be very compact and generate very little signals over a single fiber, with each transmitted
heat. Transmitting a single serial digital stream at a different wavelength.
also provides tightly controlled timing over long
distances, eliminating the need to adjust for skew. The WDM transmitter shown in Figure 3 has five
inputs and one output. Each input has its own
The transmitter’s serializer and receiver’s E-to-O converter with a laser diode that operates
deserializer operate in the electrical domain so at a unique wavelength. A special device called
they produce heat. Since AV transmitters and a WDM multiplexer/demultiplexer combines the
receivers are often mounted in remote locations, different wavelengths for transmission down a
such as behind an LCD display, heat dissipation fiber optic cable.
is not usually a concern. However, rack mounted
TDM transmitters and receivers must have proper The WDM multiplexer/demultiplexer also
cooling. separates the optical signal used for the return
data, which operates at a wavelength different
TDM systems generate serial digital signals from all the inputs. The return data optical signal
operating at speeds in the 4 to 6 Gbps range. passes through an O-to-E converter to recover
Fortunately, fiber optic technology provides the original signal.
a very high bandwidth channel, enabling
transmission of multi-gigabit digital signals over The WDM receiver shown in Figure 3 has five
very long distances. outputs and one input. The WDM multiplexer/
Figure 3. WDM matrix switchers
WDM Fiber Optic Transmitter and Receiver
tend to consume more
WDM WDM
power and generate
Multiplexer/
De-Multiplexer
Multiplexer/
De-Multiplexer more heat.
E-to-O O-to-E
Clock Converter Converter Clock
E-to-O O-to-E
TMDS 2 Converter Converter TMDS 2
E-to-O O-to-E
E-to-O O-to-E
E-to-O O-to-E
DATA Converter Converter DATA
RETURN O-to-E E-to-O RETURN

DATA Converter Converter DATA
Multiple
Wavelengths
Over a Single Fiber
demultiplexer separates the optical signals and How Fiber Optic AV Distribution
sends each to a different O-to-E converter. Systems Work
Electrical vs. Optical Distribution
The advantage of this approach is that the Switching, splitting, and distributing fiber optic
individual signals are converted directly to an AV signals can be performed completely in
optical signal without the need for a serializer the optical domain or in the electrical domain.
or deserializer. WDM transmitters and receivers Distribution systems operating in the purely
use less power and generate less heat than TDM optical domain are referred to as OOO systems
transmitters and receivers. — optical input, optical distribution, and optical
output. Optical distribution systems operating
However, WDM matrix switchers tend to consume in the electrical domain are referred to as OEO
more power and generate more heat. The need systems — optical input, electrical distribution,
for multiple conversions and additional switch and optical output.
paths for each input and output of a WDM matrix
switcher increases the amount of circuitry, while
a fiber optic matrix switcher in a TDM system Figure 4 .
requires less. WDM matrix switchers also tend to 1x8 Optical Splitter
be much larger and occupy more rack space. Output 1

-14 dBm
-3 dB
Output 2
The main disadvantage of a WDM system over -14 dBm
Output 3
a TDM solution is higher cost. Every conversion -14 dBm
-3 dB -3 dB
between the electrical and optical domains Output 4
-14 dBm
Input
-3 dB
requires multiple conversion components as -5 dBm
Output 5
-14 dBm
well as a WDM multiplexer/demultiplexer. For -3 dB -3 dB
Output 6
-14 dBm
point-to-point signal extension, the cost of a
Output 7
WDM extender set is comparable to a TDM set. -3 dB
-14 dBm
Output 8
However, many fiber optic AV systems tend to -14 dBm
have high channel counts and fiber optic matrix

switchers. In these larger environments, the cost 9 dB
Insertion Loss
differences become more apparent.
www.extron.com 27
The main advantage of Figure 5.

OEO Matrix Switcher for TDM
OEO distribution over
an OOO system is the
Input 1 O-to-E E-to-O Ouput 1
preservation of the loss Converter Converter
budget. Input 2 O-to-E E-to-O Output 2

Converter Converter
Input 3 O-to-E E-to-O Output 3

Converter Switch Fabric Converter
NxN
Converter Converter
Input N O-to-E E-to-O

Converter Converter Output N
In OOO systems, optical splitters and switches feed the output of a matrix switcher back into
are used to route fiber optic signals without the input. In an OOO distribution network, these
conversion to an electrical signal. OOO systems configurations further compound optical losses.
operate on practically any optical signal at virtually
any data rate. However, since the signals remain In an OEO system, an optical input signal is
in the optical domain, an OOO system does not converted immediately to an electrical signal. All
perform any signal processing, reclocking, or switching and processing activities are performed
regeneration. in the electrical domain. An electrical signal is
converted back to an optical signal at the output.
The primary disadvantage of OOO distribution A diagram of an OEO matrix router is shown in
systems is the reduction in optical power when Figure 5.
distributing a signal to multiple outputs. Each time
an optical signal is split, the output is reduced by The main advantage of OEO distribution over an
at least 3 dB as shown in Figure 4. OOO system is the preservation of the loss budget.
The conversion to an electrical signal and back to
A common configuration in AV systems is to an optical signal completely buffers the output
cascade multiple distribution products or to signal, relative to the loss budget as shown in
Figure 6. Figure 6. The output power is typically at the same
OEO Matrix Switcher preserves the optical loss budget level as the original transmitter, even for signals that
are multicast to more than a single output.
FOXBOX Tx HDMI
Fiber Optic Transmitter
POWER FOXBOX Tx HDMI Tx Rx
12V RS-232
LINK
LINK
1.0A MAX OVER FIBER ALARM
HDMI AUDIO INPUT Tx Rx 1 2 OPTICAL
The disadvantage to an OEO system is that

Full Optical
FOX Matrix 3200 Loss Budget multiple conversions between the optical and
Modular Fiber Optic Matrix Switcher
OUT IN OUT IN OUT OUT IN OUT IN OUT IN OUT IN OUT IN OUT IN
electrical domains, without regenerating or

1-8
A B C D E F G H
ANAHEIM, CA
9 - 16
OUT
A
IN OUT
B
IN OUT OUT
C
IN OUT
D
IN OUT
E
IN OUT
F
IN OUT
G
IN OUT
H
IN
reclocking, may contribute jitter. Typically, it

17 - 24
A B C D E F G H
takes two to three OEO conversions before jitter

25 - 32
A B C D E F G H
100-240V 50/60Hz 1.2A MAX. PRIMARY POWER SUPPLY REDUNDANT POWER SUPPLY
RESET
RS-232/RS-422
REDUNDANT
CORDS BEFORE SERVICING
DISCONNECT BOTH POWER
REMOTE
TRI-LEVEL BI-LEVEL
becomes a problem. Extron FOX Series matrix

LINK
PRIMARY
LAN
ACT
SWITCH
100-240V 50/60Hz 1.2A MAX.
REFERENCE
Full Optical
Loss Budget switchers, switchers, and distribution amplifiers
implement reclocking of digital signals to restore
and reshape the digital signal, maintaining signal
Tx Rx OUTPUTS
POWER
12V HDMI AUDIO
LINK
LINK
AUDIO RS-232 REMOTE

1.0 A MAX ON L R OVER FIBER ALARM RS-232
OPTICAL FOXBOX SR HDMI OFF HDMI Tx Rx 1 2 Tx Rx
FOXBOX SR HDMI
Fiber Optic Scaling Receiver
integrity throughout the system.
Figure 7. Extron FOX Series
TDM Fiber optic routing easily handles multiple formats
matrix switchers,
FOX AV
Transmitter
Multimode
RS-232 RS-232
OVER FIBER REMOTE FOX AV Tx
FOX Matrix 7200
FOX AV
Receiver
Multimode
RS-232 RS-232
OVER FIBER REMOTE FOX AV Rx
switchers, and
distribution amplifiers
O
I OPTICAL U Tx Rx Tx Rx
OPTICAL
N Tx Rx Tx Rx T Tx Rx
POWER P Y/VID B-Y/C
Tx Rx POWER P Y/VID B-Y/C
AUDIO OUT IN OUT IN OUT IN OUT IN OUT IN OUT IN OUT IN OUT IN 12V AUDIO
12V U 0.8A MAX U L R ALARM
0.8A MAX L R ALARM
T
M
T
1-8
S S
R-Y S-VID R-Y S-VID 1 2
1 2
FAN ASSIMBLY A B C D E F G H
OUT IN OUT IN OUT IN OUT IN OUT IN OUT IN OUT IN OUT IN
9 - 16
S
A B C D E F G H
implement reclocking
17 - 24
M
A B C D E F
FOX 500 DVI

G H

FOX 500 DVI
25 - 32
Transmitter S
A B C D E F G H Receiver
Multimode OUT IN OUT IN OUT IN OUT IN OUT IN OUT IN OUT IN OUT IN
Multimode
33 - 40
M
of digital signals to
100-240V ̴0.3A 100-240V ̴0.3A
RS-232 RS-232
50/60 Hz
PASS THRU FOX 500 DVI TX A B C D E F G H
50/60 Hz
PASS THRU FOX 500 DVI TX
TX Rx NA OPTICAL IN IN IN IN IN IN IN IN TX Rx NA OPTICAL
DDC OUT OUT OUT OUT OUT OUT OUT OUT
DVI - D INPUT LOOP - THRU AUDIO INPUTS 1 2* DVI - D OUTPUT 1 2*
41 - 48
RESOL AUDIO INPUTS
S
LINK
LINK
LINK
LINK
RS-232 RS-232
L R CONTROL ALARM L R CONTROL ALARM
FAN ASSIMBLY
TX Rx 1 2 * RETURN
OPTIONAL FOR A B C D E F G H TX Rx 1 2 * RETURN
OPTIONAL FOR
DATA DATA
49 - 56
M
A B C D E F G H
restore and reshape

57 - 64
S
A B C D E F G H
FOX 500 RGB OUT IN OUT IN OUT IN OUT IN OUT IN OUT IN OUT IN OUT IN
FOX 500 RGB
65 - 72
S
Transmitter A B C D E F G H Receiver
Multimode SWITCH REFERENCE
Singlemode
the digital signal,

LAN
REMOTE
100-240V ̴0.3A 100-240V ̴0.3A

RS-232
50/60 Hz
RGB INPUT INPUT LOOP THRU
RS-232
PASS THRU FOX 500 TX 50/60 Hz
RGB OUTPUT PASS THRU FOX 500 Rx
RS232/RS422 ACT LINK RESET BI-LEVEL TRI-LEVEL
TX Rx NA OPTICAL TX Rx NA OPTICAL
R G B 1 2* DISCONNECT BOTH POWER R G B AUDIO OUTPUTS 2* 1
AUDIO INPUTS
PRIMARY POWER SUPPLY REDUNDANT POWER SUPPLY
LINK
LINK
LINK
LINK
RS-232 RS-232
L R CONTROL ALARM L R CONTROL ALARM
OR
H/HV V H V S
RGB TX Rx 1 2 * RETURN
OPTIONAL FOR RGB TX Rx 1 2 * RETURN
OPTIONAL FOR
DATA DATA
REDUNDANT
100-240V
50/60Hz
1.2A MAX.
maintaining signal
PRIMARY
100-240V
50/60Hz
1.2A MAX.
ANAHEIM, CA
FOXBOX VGA FOXBOX DVI Plus

integrity throughout the

Singlemode Singlemode
Tx Rx Tx Rx
AUDIO
AUDIO
RGB
CONFIG
LINK
LINK
DVI
CONFIG
LINK
LINK
FOXBOX Tx VGA
Singlemode Multimode FOXBOX Rx DVI Plus
OPTICAL OPTICAL
FOX 3G HD-SDI
Transceiver
FOX 3G HD-SDI
Transceiver
system.
Multimode Singlemode
FOX 3G HD-SDI FOX 3G HD-SDI
POWER OPTICAL POWER OPTICAL
12V MODE 12V MODE
0.3A MAX 0.3A MAX
1 2 1 2
HD/SDI IN HD/SDI IN
TX Rx BUFFERED OUTPUTS BUFFERED OUTPUTS
TX Rx
Since multicasting, switching, and routing are Switching and Routing Fiber Optic WDM
common requirements for larger AV systems, AV Signals
most fiber optic AV systems use OEO distribution WDM signals present a challenge in OEO matrix
and routing to avoid the optical losses in an OOO routers. The optical fiber is carrying multiple
distribution system. signals, each at a different wavelength, to be
converted to electrical signals. Therefore, each
Switching and Routing Fiber Optic TDM input and output requires multiple converters
AV Signals along with a WDM multiplexer / demultiplexer.
The single wavelength/single fiber switching Additionally, the switching system must handle a
system used in a TDM application requires a larger number of signals in the electrical domain
single O-to-E conversion for each input and a than does a TDM router. The matrix router shown
single E-to-O conversion on each output as in Figure 9 handles WDM inputs and outputs.
shown in Figure 5. This simplifies the design of
a fiber optic AV routing and distribution system. In a WDM system, matrix inputs and outputs
Since each signal is a digital bit stream, switching resemble receivers and transmitters. So the actual
can be independent of the underlying video
format as shown in Figure 7. AV signals are Figure 8.
Relative size of Matrix Switchers
defined by the endpoints – the transmitter and
receiver. This also enables the upgrading of Rack
Height
sources and displays with minimal impact on the
switching and routing system.
16U
15U
High speed digital routers in TDM systems
operate efficiently and typically use less power
Third-party Third-party
than a WDM router. The efficient design also WDM WDM
8U Matrix Matrix
enables the router to occupy less rack space. For FOX Switcher Switcher
80x80 144x144
example, an Extron FOX Matrix 14400 144x144 Matrix
14400
fiber optic matrix switcher occupies eight rack 144x144
units, compared to 16 rack units for an alternative System (A) System (B) System (C)
TDM WDM w/ WDM w/
design that uses WDM signaling as shown in Design Bidirectional Unidirectional
Signal Signal
Figure 8.
www.extron.com 29
Bidirectional signals, Figure 9.

WDM Fiber Optic Matrix Switcher
such as USB, RS-232,
or Ethernet, are used
in a wide variety of AV Input 1 O-to-E E-to-O Output 1
WDM O-to-E E-to-O WDM
applications. MUX O-to-E E-to-O MUX
O-to-E E-to-O
MUX O-to-E Switch Fabric E-to-O MUX
4N x 4N
O-to-E E-to-O
Input N O-to-E E-to-O Output N

MUX O-to-E E-to-O MUX
O-to-E E-to-O
switch fabric is a matrix switcher for the native Switching and Routing Bidirectional Signals
format of the AV signal. The availability of the The WDM matrix switcher in Figure 9 only handles
native AV signal enables local inputs and outputs. unidirectional signals. The addition of bidirectional
signaling impacts both TDM and WDM systems,
Matrix routers supporting WDM signals have but in different ways.
several disadvantages. The router of Figure 9
has four times the number of optical converters Bidirectional signals, such as USB, RS-232,
and a switch fabric that is 16 times larger than a or Ethernet, are used in a wide variety of AV
similar TDM router. The more complex circuitry applications. For example, the system shown
leads to higher costs, higher power consumption, in Figure 12 enables an operator to control two
and larger frames. Supporting multiple formats computers with a single keyboard and mouse.
and signals adds additional complexity, when The keyboard and mouse connect through the
compared to a TDM based router. matrix to the selected host computer’s USB port.
Special care must be taken to ensure bidirectional
communication is handled properly.
Figure 10.
Bidirectional signals in a TDM Matrix Switcher In a TDM system, which uses a single
wavelength over a single fiber, two fibers are
O-to-E O-to-E
needed for applications that require bidirectional
Port 1 Port 2
E-to-O E-to-O communication. In this configuration, each
bidirectional duplex port operates as either an
input or output port, as shown in Figure 10.
O-to-E O-to-E
Port 4 Port 5 The duplex signals are switched together. In
E-to-O Switch Fabric E-to-O
NxN a TDM system, bidirectional pairs and single-
fiber unidirectional signals are switched with the
same matrix switcher. The ability to group inputs
and outputs to form bidirectional ports provides
Input N O-to-E E-to-O Output N flexibility, enabling simplex and duplex signals to
be routed within the same chassis for efficient use
of switching resources.
Figure 11 . In a TDM system,
WDM Matrix Switcher with bidirectional signals
bidirectional pairs
O-to-E E-to-O
Output 1
and single-fiber
Input 1 O-to-E E-to-O
WDM
MUX
O-to-E E-to-O WDM
MUX
unidirectional signals
O-to-E E-to-O
O-to-E E-to-O are switched with the
E-to-O O-to-E
O-to-E E-to-O same matrix switcher.


MUX O-to-E Switch Fabric E-to-O MUX
6N x 6N
O-to-E E-to-O
E-to-O O-to-E
O-to-E E-to-O
Input N O-to-E E-to-O Output N
MUX O-to-E E-to-O MUX
O-to-E E-to-O
E-to-O O-to-E
Bidirectional signaling in a WDM system Typical PON Implementation

affects the core architecture of the matrix A typical PON implementation is shown in
switcher. A WDM system that can carry video Figure 14. At the network head, the optical line
and bidirectional control signals on a single terminal — OLT provides a connection from the
fiber is shown in Figure 11. Although only a service provider’s core network to the optical
single fiber is used to carry the optical signal, distribution network. Downstream, signals are
additional converters are required to handle sent from the OLT to one or more destinations
the bidirectional data. Input and output port through an optical splitter.
designations are typically fixed in a WDM
matrix switcher.
Passive Optical Networks

A passive optical network — PON is a fiber optic
network architecture that uses non-powered
Figure 12.
optical components to distribute signals to KVM application with TDM Matrix Switcher
multiple destinations as shown in Figure 13. The
head of the network represents the data center Extron Extron
FOXBOX Tx DVI Plus FOXBOX SR HDMI
or service provider. The optical access network is Tx Rx POWER
12V
Tx Rx
HDMI AUDIO
OUTPUTS
AUDIO
LINK
LINK
RS-232 REMOTE
AUDIO
LINK
LINK
TEMP
OVER

DVI
CONFIG
a collection of optical distribution networks, each

FOXBOX Tx DVI Plus OPTICAL
POWER
12V DVI-D INPUT AUDIO RS-232
FOXBOX Tx DVI Plus Tx Rx 1 2
of which connects a single fiber from the head to PC
one or more terminals or nodes. Extron

FOX USB Extender Tx
HOST Tx Rx
POWER
12V
0.8A MAX
LINK
LINK

1-8
OPTICAL
An optical distribution network contains only

ANAHEIM, CA
9 - 16
Extron
Tx Rx HUB
POWER
12V
1.0A MAX 1 3
OUT IN OUT IN OUT IN OUT IN
LINK
LINK
OUT IN OUT IN OUT IN OUT IN
FOXBOX Tx DVI Plus

17 - 24
2 4
passive, non-powered optical components,

OPTICAL
25 - 32
Extron
Tx Rx
AUDIO
LINK
LINK
TEMP
OVER
DVI
CONFIG
FOX USB Extender Rx

RESET
RS-232/RS-422
REDUNDANT
FOXBOX Tx DVI Plus

REMOTE
eliminating the need to remotely power devices.

OPTICAL
TRI-LEVEL BI-LEVEL
POWER
LINK
PRIMARY
LAN
ACT
FOXBOX Tx DVI Plus Tx Rx 1 2 SWITCH

100-240V 50/60Hz 1.2A MAX.
REFERENCE
PON designs are the preferred architecture PC

Extron
FOX Matrix 3200
for fiber-to-the-premises — FTTx networks, Extron
FOX USB Extender Tx
delivering voice, data, and video services from
HOST Tx Rx
POWER
12V
0.8A MAX
LINK
LINK
OPTICAL
CATV companies and other providers to homes

and businesses.
www.extron.com 31
A passive optical Figure 13.

PON Architecture
network — PON is
a fiber optic network
Terminal or Node
architecture that
Terminal or Node
uses non-powered Optical Access
Network Terminal or Node
optical components
Head Terminal or Node
to distribute signals to
Optical Distribution
multiple destinations. Network
Terminal or Node
At the terminal end, an optical network unit (ONU) include a second downstream channel operating
receives and processes the downstream signal in the 1530 to 1560 nm band.
before sending the information to the terminal
equipment. Using the same fiber cable, the WDM PON Implementation
ONU transmits responses and requests from The typical PON implementation uses WDM for
the terminal upstream to the service provider. bidirectional signaling, but with each direction at
WDM is used to enable bidirectional traffic along a unique wavelength. WDM PON uses CWDM
a single fiber. or DWDM to carry multiple wavelengths in either
direction as shown in Figure 15.
In this implementation, all terminal points
receive the same signal. Therefore, addressing WDM PON uses a single fiber to carry multiple
and encryption is used to ensure that an ONU fiber optic signals, each at a different wavelength.
only receives and processes the appropriate A CWDM/DWDM multiplexer ensures an ONU
information. The OLT typically transmits only receives its designated downstream signal.
downstream data at 1490 nm while each ONU Each ONU transmits upstream data at a unique
transmits upstream data at 1310 nm. To avoid wavelength. The CWDM/DWDM multiplexer
data collisions, only one ONU can transmit combines multiple wavelengths for upstream
upstream at a time. Some implementations transmission to the OLT.
Figure 14.
Typical PON Implementation
Head Optical Access Network Terminal or Node
Optical Network Terminal

Units Equipment
Optical
Line ONU TE
Terminal Optical Distribution Optical
Network Splitter
Core
Network OLT ONU TE
Upstream Downstream
ONU TE
Only passive optical

Powered components exist in the Powered
Equipment optical access network Equipment

Figure 15. EPON is the most
WDM PON Implementation
commonly installed
Head Optical Access Network Terminal or Node type, but GPON
Optical Network Terminal
Units Equipment currently has the
Optical
Line
CWDM/
DWDM ONU TE highest growth rate for
Terminal Optical Distribution DEMUX
Network new installations.
Core
Network OLT ONU TE
Upstream Downstream
ONU TE
Only passive optical

Powered components exist in the Powered
Equipment optical access network Equipment
WDM PON implementations use a variety of installed type, but GPON currently has the highest
CWDM/DWDM wavelengths with no commonly growth rate for new installations. 
agreed upon standards. Some implementations
use multiple wavelengths in the downstream Installing and Terminating
direction with a single, common wavelength Fiber Optic Cables
for upstream traffic. Other implementations
use an optical splitter after the CWDM/DWDM Installing Fiber Optic Cable
multiplexer to provide service to more nodes over One of the most integral parts of an AV system
the same optical distribution network. is the cabling infrastructure that carries the video,
audio, and control signals. The lighter weight and
Standard PON Types smaller size of fiber optic cables translate into
The Institute of Electrical and Electronics an easier installation and smaller conduit, which
Engineers — IEEE and the International means a lower cost of installation. Fiber takes
Telecommunication Union (ITU) have adopted up very little space in cable trays and is easy
standard PON types shown in Table 1. Each to pull through conduit. As shown in Figure 16,
standard defines a unique protocol, data rates fiber optic cable is a fraction of the size of Extron
and wavelengths. Each of the standard PON RG6-5 Super High Resolution Cable and is even
types identifies a network topology similar to smaller than unshielded twisted pair cable. Each
that of Figure 14. EPON is the most commonly
Table 1. PON Standards

Standard PON Type Description Comments
IEEE 802.3 EPON / GEPON 1 Gb/s Ethernet PON Standard Gigabit Ethernet — GBE frames with symmetric
1 Gbps upstream and downstream rates
IEEE 802.3 10G-EPON 10 Gbps Ethernet PON Simultaneous GBE and 10 Gigabit Ethernet — 10GBE
downstream on two wavelengths, with simultaneous GBE
and 10GBE upstream on a shared 1310 nm channel
ITU-T G.983 APON ATM PON First PON standard based on asynchronous transfer
mode — ATM
ITU-T G.983 BPON Broadband PON An improved version of the APON standard with higher
performance
ITU-T G.984 GPON Gigabit PON An evolution of the BPON standard to enable a down-
stream rate of 2.488 Gbps and an upstream rate of
1.244 Gbps
ITU-T G.987 10GPON 10 Gbps PON Extends GPON performance to 10 Gbps downstream and
2.5 Gbps upstream
www.extron.com 33
Fiber termination Figure 16.

can cause microscopic imperfections called
Comparison of RG-6, Twisted Pair, and
systems have been Fiber Cables microbends as shown in Figure 18. Microbends
introduce additional attenuation into the fiber.
developed that require 0.792 in 0.25 in 0.16 in
However, proper cable management reduces the

very little training, and likelihood of this type of loss.
produce high quality
fiber connections in Extron RG6-5
Five Conductor
Unshielded
Twisted Pair
Extron OM4 MM P
Bend-Insensitive
Fiber Termination
RG6 Super High Cable Laser Optimized
There is a common misconception that
less time than it takes Resolution Cable Duplex Multimode
Fiber Optic Cable
terminating optical fiber is time consuming and
to terminate a coaxial can carry a high resolution video signal. Of the requires highly specialized skills. Today, fiber
cable. three cable types, the fiber optic cable is the termination systems have been developed that
smallest in size and weight. The small size of fiber require very little training, and produce high
optic cable has lead to its popularity in medical quality fiber connections in less time than it takes
applications where there is insufficient space for to terminate a coaxial cable. Three common
coaxial cable. termination methods are available to installers:
Many of the same concerns for installing coaxial • Pre-polished connector systems
cable apply to fiber optic cable. As with coaxial • Epoxy and polish fiber termination
cables, fiber optic cables have a minimum • Splice-on pigtail connectors
bend radius that should not be exceeded. For
example, the coaxial cable depicted in Figure 16 Pre-Polished Connector Systems
has a minimum bend radius of nine inches, and Fiber optic termination kits for modern pre-
the fiber cable has a two-inch minimum bend polished connector systems enable installers,
radius. As a general rule, no fiber cable should who have never worked with optical fiber, to
bend beyond 20 times the diameter of the cable. become proficient at terminating fiber optic
Newer fibers are also available that feature tighter cables in a short amount of time. These newer
bend radii. Bending beyond the recommended fiber termination systems are ideal for AV
bend radius is referred to as a macrobend, and installers who need to add connectors quickly
may introduce additional losses into the cable. when installing AV fiber optic equipment. Insertion
If the bend is sharp enough, light escapes into losses for modern fiber termination systems are
the cladding as shown in Figure 17, resulting in a approximately 0.2 dB, or a maximum of 0.5 dB
loss of signal. for systems using a precision cleaver.
As with coaxial cable, care must also be taken The Extron Fiber Optic Termination Kit shown
with fiber optic cable to avoid kinks, twists, and in Figure 19 enables quick, reliable termination
over-tightened cable clamps or ties. In coaxial of Extron multimode and singlemode fiber optic
cable, these stresses can damage the shielding cables with high-performance, pre-polished
or dielectric foam that gives the cable its electrical connectors. Each kit includes all of the tools and
properties. In fiber optic cables, these stresses equipment needed to strip, prepare, cleave, and
terminate a fiber optic cable using Extron Quick
Macrobend Microbend
LC Fiber Optic Connectors. The kit includes a
VFL - Visual Fault Locator to assist with proper
termination of fiber optic cables.
• Stripping and Cleaning the Fiber

The cable is marked according to a template
to ensure that the proper amount of covering
material is removed. Stripping a fiber optic cable Figure 19. The Extron Fiber
Extron Fiber Optic Termination Kit
is performed in three steps to remove the outer Optic Termination
jacket, the buffer coating, and the acrylate coating
Kit enables quick,
to expose the bare fiber. A lint-free wipe with
fiber cleaning fluid or isopropyl alcohol is used to
reliable termination
remove dirt, debris, and oil from the bare fiber. of Extron multimode
and singlemode fiber
• Cleaving the Fiber
optic cables with
The process of cleaving the fiber is the most
important step in achieving a low-loss, high technicians can achieve terminations that exhibit
high-performance,
quality termination. A precision fiber optic cleaver an insertion loss of 0.5 dB to 0.75 dB. pre-polished
as shown in Figure 20 consistently produces a connectors.
clean, flat fiber end. An installer easily can achieve However, a staple cleaver can produce
a low insertion loss of 0.2 dB to 0.5 dB using inconsistent results and requires more frequent
a precision cleaver. A precision cleaver is highly servicing than a precision cleaver. The quality is
recommended for singlemode or laser-optimized dependent upon the skill of the operator and the
multimode fiber termination. condition of the blade. Each blade is capable
of only 1,000 operations before needing to be
The Extron Fiber Optic Termination Kit includes replaced. A staple cleaver is not recommended
a precision cleaver that scribes and cleaves for singlemode fiber or laser optimized multimode
the fiber in a single step. A scrap collection bin fiber used in high speed networks, such as an AV
attached to the cleaver receives the glass shard network.
for easy cleanup. The 16-position precision blade
is rated at 48,000 operations and is replaceable. • Terminating the Fiber
Field termination systems provide a variety of
Inexpensive termination kits typically include methods to complete fiber termination. Field
a staple cleaver or pocket cleaver as shown in systems use connectors that are pre-polished,
Figure 21. Staple cleavers are generally used in with a small fiber stub and index-matching gel
the process of terminating multimode fibers for inside the connector. The connection between
low-speed data networks. The cleaver blade the bare fiber and the fiber stub is similar to
scores the fiber. The operator holds the fiber in making a mechanical splice in a fiber optic cable.
place while bending the flexible tail to snap off Some kits require special tools, while others
the fiber end. Care must be taken to ensure glass provide switches, clips, or crimps to terminate
shards are collected and disposed of properly. A fiber in the field.
fiber scope should be used to check the cleaved
fiber before completing the termination. Skilled

Precision Cleaver for Low Staple Cleaver Produces Lower Quality
Loss Terminations Terminations
www.extron.com 35
The Extron Fiber Figure 22. Epoxy and Polish Fiber Termination
Extron Quick LC Connector
Optic Termination When installing a complete, structured wiring
system, many fiber installers prefer the epoxy
Kit includes a VFL to
and polish method of fiber termination. This
provide an indication of process is more involved and requires bonding
a good termination. of the connector to the end of the fiber using an
epoxy or anaerobic process. Once cured, the
connector end is polished to a fine, flat surface.
Using this method can produce very high quality
terminations with low insertion loss of less than
Using the Extron fiber termination system, the 0.2 dB. However, the quality of termination is
fiber end is inserted into the connector body of dependent upon the skills of the installer.
the Quick LC Connector shown in Figure 22. The
wedge clip is disengaged and a V clamp inside of One drawback to the epoxy or anaerobic method
the connector aligns and holds the fiber. A strain of termination is the length of time required to
relief boot ensures that the aramid yarn absorbs terminate a single fiber. The additional steps
any stresses to protect the fiber termination point. of curing and polishing can increase the time
required to install an AV system. When doing a
A VFL as shown in Figure 23 is recommended large number of terminations, as in a large fiber
when terminating a fiber optic cable. The Extron plant, additional connectors are prepared as
Fiber Optic Termination Kit includes a VFL to other connectors cure, reducing the time per
provide an indication of a good termination. termination. Connectors and supplies are also
Extron Quick LC connectors provide an indicator less costly than the pre-polished termination
window on the wedge clip to indicate a good systems.
connection as shown in Figure 24.
Splice-On Pigtail Connectors
Many installers choose a pre-polished connector Splice-on connectors are an alternative to either
system for all of their fiber optic terminations. the pre-polished connector systems or the
Others prefer the epoxy and polish method or epoxy method of termination. A factory-polished
splice-on pigtail connectors for structured cable connector with a fiber pigtail is spliced onto the
installations to minimize fiber losses in the fiber existing fiber using a fusion splicer. A splice tray
plant. These different methods are explained in and enclosure are used to protect the spliced
the following sections. fibers. Since a fusion splice adds less than
Figure 24.
Figure 23. Wedge Clip Indicator Ensures a Good
Visual Fault Locator Termination
VFL 101
HOLD
1 sec
2 11
Light in position 1 before the fiber is inserted

VFL 101
HOLD
1 sec
2 11
Light dims when the inserted fiber completes the connection

0.1 dB of loss, very high quality terminations are long transmission distances and provides a high Fiber Optic Connector Types
created. The main drawback of this method is quality connection. Also, multi-fiber connectors
the cost of the connectors and the fusion splicing are becoming popular, such as the Multi-fiber
equipment. Also, specialized skills are needed to Push-On — MPO connector to terminate up
operate fiber splicing equipment. A comparison to a 12-fiber ribbon cable. The MPO is also the
of the common termination methods is shown standard connector for ultra high speed 40 Gbps
in Table 2. and 100 Gbps data networks.
ST SC
Fiber Optic Connectors and Adapters Occasionally, an AV installer may encounter a

Considering that the signal-carrying core of a fiber plant with pre-terminated fibers. End users
singlemode fiber is a mere 9 μm in diameter, with previously installed structured cabling may
about half the diameter of a human hair, it is have standardized on an older connector style.
difficult to comprehend the low margin for error For optimum performance, removing the old
allowed when connecting two fiber optic cables. connector and terminating the fiber with the
Fortunately, there are connectors that can connector that matches the AV equipment is
FC LC
precisely align two optical fibers with minimal recommended.
losses. These include:
Alternatively, fiber optic adapters are available
• ST, or Straight Tip – Similar to a BNC with a that allow different connector types to be utilized
twist-lock design. The ST connector has a 2.5
together within a system. For example, LC-
mm ferrule.
ST adapters enable integration of Extron fiber
• SC, or Subscriber Connector – A push/pull-
optic products into existing systems that utilize MTP / MPO
type connector with a 2.5 mm ferrule.
ST interconnects. Fiber optic adapters and
• FC, or Ferrule Connector – A screw-on
connector with a 2.5 mm ferrule. connectors increase the amount of insertion
loss, and should only be used if the loss budget
• LC, or Lucent Connector – A push/pull-type
connector with a 1.25 mm ferrule, which is is maintained.
quickly becoming a standard as the smaller form
factor works well in networking environments. Selecting the Right Connector
ST and SC connectors were very popular in Pre-polished connectors provide a convenient
data centers, but are being replaced by the LC method of field termination without the use of
connector. The smaller size of the LC enables messy epoxies. Selecting the right connector
more connections in a smaller space, which requires matching the connector style, fiber type,
results in a smaller footprint for patch panels and performance level to ensure an installed fiber
and switch bays. Low insertion loss enables optic plant meets system specifications. The
Table 2. Comparison of Fiber Termination Methods

Pre-Polished Pre-Polished
Connector Connector Epoxy and Polish Splice-on
System with System with Connectors Connectors
Staple Cleaver Precision Cleaver
Skill Level Low Low High High
Connector Costs High High Low High
Equipment Costs Medium Medium Medium Low
Termination Time < 3 minutes < 3 minutes > 5 minutes < 3 minutes
Per Connector
Connector Insertion 0.5 to 0.75 dB 0.2 to 0.5 dB 0.2 dB L0.2 dB
Loss
Application Multimode Fiber All Fiber Types All Fiber Types All Fiber Types
Only
www.extron.com 37
Fiber Optic Adapters highest performance multimode connectors, Color Codes for Cables and Connectors
such as the Extron QLC MM, are rated for To avoid operator error and reduce the
10 Gbps data networks using OM4 or OM3 laser chance of mismatch, color codes are
optimized fiber. Lower performance connectors often used to indicate the type of fiber
are also available to support legacy OM1 and and the type of connector. Common
OM2 multimode fiber operating below 1 Gbps. color codes used for indoor fiber optic
LC - SC LC-LC
Singlemode connectors provide connectivity for cables and pre-polished connectors are
both OS1 and OS2 fibers. provided below.
Selecting the right connector requires matching

the connector style, fiber type, and performance
Jacket Color Fiber Type
level to ensure an installed fiber optic plant meets
Orange OM1 or OM2 Multimode
system specifications. Fiber core mismatches
Yellow OS1 or OS2 Singlemode
may cause additional losses and reflections. Aqua OM3 or OM4 Laser
ST - ST ST - FC Terminating a high-performance OM4 or OM3 Optimized Multimode
fiber with a lower performance connector may Red OS1 or OS2 Singlemode
Blue Polarization Maintaining
have a severe impact on the link performance. Singlemode Fiber
Fiber Splicing
Fiber splicing creates a permanent connection
between two optical fibers. Splicing is an Connector Connector and Polish
important step during installation of structured Color Fiber Type Type
cabling, especially when transitioning from Beige or OM1 62.5 μm PC or
outdoor cables to indoor cables. Splicing in a Grey Multimode UPC
horizontal or point-to-point installation for an AV Black OM2 50 μm PC or

Multimode UPC
system is less common, but may occasionally
be required to repair a fiber, create a low-loss Aqua OM3/OM4 10 Gbps PC or
50 μm Multimode UPC
permanent connection, or change an existing
Blue OS1 or OS2 PC or
permanent connection. The two common Singlemode with UPC
methods include fusion splicing and mechanical PC or UPC polish
splicing as shown in Figure 26. Green OS1 or OS2 APC

Singlemode with
APC polish
• Fusion Splicing
Fusion splicing requires special equipment
that provides an electric arc to melt the fiber
ends together. The fusion splicer performs
both mechanical and optical core alignment
to produce an extremely low-loss connection, the equipment, typically $5,000 to $6,000, and
usually less than 0.1 dB. The equipment is opt for mechanical splicing.
automated and can quickly make multiple fiber
connections at a very low cost per splice. Fusion • Mechanical Splicing
splicing is the preferred method when installing Mechanical splicing is similar to the pre-polished
a complete fiber plant where a large number of connector systems for fiber termination, and
splices are required. AV installers who are only requires a much lower investment of $400 to $600
concerned with horizontal and point-to-point for a fiber splice tool kit. A mechanical splicer uses
cabling often choose to avoid the high cost of a small enclosure filled with index matching gel

Figure 25. for testing. Testing is performed per applicable The accuracy and
Extron Fiber Optic Test Set
standards, such as TIA/EIA-568-B Commercial repeatability of loss
Building Telecommunications Cabling Standard.
measurements are
Launch Reference Cable and Mode highly dependent on
Conditioning the launch condition of
The accuracy and repeatability of loss the light entering the
measurements are highly dependent on the
fiber link under test.
launch condition of the light entering the fiber link
under test. In order to create a common launch
condition for loss measurements, international
standards specify the use of a launch reference
cable with mode conditioning applied to the
that holds two fibers in alignment as shown in cable. Mode conditioning relies upon bend loss
Figure 26. Joining two fibers is quick and easy, to create a standard launch condition. Therefore,
and produces a high quality connection with an bend-insensitive fiber is not used in reference
insertion loss of typically 0.25 dB. The cost of cables.
each mechanical splice is about $10 to $12.
Multimode launch cables include a mandrel wrap
Mechanical splicing is recommended for cabling to remove loosely-coupled modes. The mandrel
repairs, or when there is only an occasional need wrap must be of the appropriate size for the type
to permanently join two fibers. of multimode fiber in the reference cable. Bending
of the fiber causes loosely-coupled modes to
Fiber Optic Loss Measurements attenuate via a macrobend loss as shown in
Overview Figure 27. For singlemode fiber, a three to four-
Fiber optic cable loss is measured in decibels inch loop is placed in the fiber.
— dB using a fiber optic test set as shown in
Figure 25. The fiber optic test set includes a light Insertion Loss Testing
source, power meter, and reference cables. The Loss testing is performed after setting the 0 dB
general test procedure is to place a known light reference point using the appropriate method.
source at one end of a fiber link then use a power Modern fiber optic power meters, such as the
meter to measure received power or loss at the Extron FPM 101, provide reading loss in dB.
opposite end. The optical link must include only
Figure 26.
passive optical components, such as connectors,
Fiber Optic Splicers
fiber optic cable, attenuators, or optical splitters.
An 850 nm or 1300 nm LED light source is used Fusion Splicer Mechanical Splicer
for multimode testing, and singlemode testing
is performed with a 1310 nm or 1550 nm laser
light source. It is important to use the appropriate
source and to match the reference cables to
the type of fiber being tested. Reference cables
should be high quality patch cables with factory
termination. Connector ends should always be
cleaned before making a connection. The power
meter must be calibrated at the wavelengths used
www.extron.com 39
Modern fiber optic Otherwise, the reference power value must be and calculations assume that the one-cable
power meters, such as recorded in dBm, and the loss must be calculated method is used to set the reference.
by taking the difference between the measured
the Extron FPM 101,
power and the reference power. The launch reference cable is connected directly
provide reading loss between the light source and the power meter
in dB. Two methods are available for testing insertion as shown in Figure 28. The zero reference is set
loss in fiber optic cables. The method for testing per the power meter manufacturer’s instructions.
an installed cable plant is specified in TIA The loss in the actual fiber for the reference
OFSTP-14 for multimode fiber and TIA OFSTP-7 cable should be negligible, given its relatively
for singlemode fiber. The difference between short length.
the two methods is the choice of wavelengths.
TIA FOTP-171 specifies the method for testing The one-cable method requires the same
patch cords. connector to be used on the reference cable,
power meter, and link under test. If the connectors
TIA OFSTP-14 and TIA OFSTP-7 Installed on the test equipment are not the same as the
Cable Plant Test fiber link under test, either the two-cable or three-
• Setting the Reference cable method is required.
Since loss in the fiber optic link is a relative
measurement, the 0 dB reference must be set • Two-Cable Method
prior to taking any measurements. TIA OFSTP-14 The two-cable method is used when the
specifies three acceptable methods for setting connector used in the fiber plant is different from
the reference – one-cable method, two-cable that on the power meter, such that a launch
method, and three-cable method. Each method reference cable cannot be plugged directly
requires a different number of reference cables into the power meter. A launch reference cable
and produces different measurement results, so is attached to the light source, and a receive
it is important to document the selected method. reference cable is attached to the power meter.
The appropriate method is based upon the A fiber optic coupling is used to join the two fibers
compatibility between the link connectors and together as shown in Figure 29.
test set connectors.
The two-cable method includes the additional
• One-Cable Method loss of a connection point between the reference
The one-cable method is the preferred method cables when setting the reference. Therefore, the
for setting the reference and is required by TIA/ resulting loss measurement reading is less than
EIA-568-B.1. Most loss budget specifications that of a test set using the one-cable method. The

Mode Conditioning Removes Loosely Coupled Modes One-Cable Method
Launch
Reference
Cable Mode
Overfill Launch Higher Order Modes
Condition Stripped Off Mandrel Conditioning
(for Multimode)
Overfill Launch a b
Condition
Mandrel 850nm 1300nm
9V
1310nm 1550nm
FLS 101 WAVE ID

FIBER LIGHT SOURCE
Set
dB
850nm 1310nm Ref
dBm
1300nm 1550nm
MM SM
Extron FPM 101

FIBER POWER METER
Tone
Fiber Optic
POWER
POWER
Light Source Power Meter

Bending Loss Affects
Loosely Coupled Modes
0 dB Reference = Light Source Power - Mandrel Loss

Figure 29. Figure 30. The one-cable method
Two-Cable Method Three-Cable Method
is the preferred
method for setting
Launch
Reference Launch
Cable Reference
Mode Receive Cable
Reference Mode Receive
Mandrel Conditioning
the reference and is

Cable Mandrel Conditioning Reference
(for Multimode) (for Multimode) Cable
b c b x d e
LC to LC
Coupling
LC to LC Golden LC to LC
required by
Coupling Reference Cable Coupling
a d a f TIA/EIA-568-B.1.
9V
9V
850nm 1300nm 1310nm 1550nm
850nm 1300nm 1310nm 1550nm
FLS 101 WAVE ID

FIBER LIGHT SOURCE
FLS 101 WAVE ID
FIBER LIGHT SOURCE
Set
Set
dB
850nm 1310nm Ref dB
dBm 850nm 1310nm Ref
1300nm 1550nm dBm
1300nm 1550nm
MM SM
Extron
MM SM
FPM 101 Extron FPM 101
FIBER POWER METER FIBER POWER METER
Tone Tone
Fiber Optic Fiber Optic

POWER POWER
POWER POWER
Light Source Power Meter Light Source Power Meter
0 dB Reference = Light Source Power - Mandrel Loss - L bc 0 dB Reference = Light Source Power - Mandrel Loss - L bc - L de
additional connection point also adds uncertainty Installed Cable Plant Loss Test
to the measurement. Regardless of the method to set the reference,
the TIA OFSTP-14 and TIA OFSTP-7 installed
• Three-Cable Method cable plant loss test requires both launch and
The three-cable method is used when the receive reference cables as shown in Figure 31.
connectors on the launch and receive cables The double-ended set-up simulates equipment
cannot be coupled together. This occurs when connected to the fiber link through a patch panel.
different connectors are used on the ends of the The measured loss includes the fiber under test
fiber link under test. A “golden” reference cable and the connection points at each end. The
is used to provide the connection between method used to set the 0 dB reference affects
the launch and receive cables as shown in the displayed value as shown in Table 3.
Figure 30.
If the install cable plant test method produces a
The three-cable method adds the loss of two higher than expected measurement, clean the
connection points when setting the reference. connectors and retest. If high measurements
The three-cable method produces loss persist, measure each cable segment in both
measurements less than either the one-cable or directions using the TIA FOTP-171 patch cord
two-cable method. test method to isolate the problem.
Table 3. Comparison of Reference Setting Methods for Fiber Plant Loss Testing
Reference One-Cable Method
Two-Cable Method Three-Cable Method
Setting Method (preferred method)
When to Use Same connectors on Different connectors on Same connectors on test
test equipment, fiber test equipment, fiber equipment, fiber plant,
plant, and reference plant. and reference cables.
cables.
Effect on 0dB Includes mode condi- Includes mode Includes mode condition-
Reference Setting tioning loss, only conditioning loss plus ing loss plus two connec-
one connector pair tor pairs
Effect on Fiber Measured Loss = Measured Loss = Measured Loss =
Plant Loss Lbx + Lxy + Lyc Lbx + Lxy + Lyc - Lbc Lbx + Lxy + Lyc - Lbc -
Measurement Lde
Relative Size of Measured Loss Measured Loss Measured Loss
Measurements One-Cable Method Two-Cable Method Three-Cable Method
www.extron.com 41
The TIA FOTP-171 Figure 31.

OFSTP-14 and OFSTP-7 Installed Cable Figure 32.
method is used for Plant Loss Test FOTP-171 Patch Cord Loss Test
insertion loss testing Launch Launch
Reference Reference
of patch and reference Cable

Mandrel
(for Multimode)
Receive
Reference
Cable
Cable
Mandrel
(for Multimode)
cables. b x y c b x
LC to LC Link under test LC to LC LC to LC Cable Under Test

Coupling Coupling Coupling
a d a y
9V
9V
850nm 1300nm 1310nm 1550nm

850nm 1300nm 1310nm 1550nm
FLS 101 WAVE ID

FIBER LIGHT SOURCE FLS 101 WAVE ID
FIBER LIGHT SOURCE
Set
Set
dB
850nm 1310nm Ref dB
dBm
1300nm 1550nm 850nm 1310nm Ref
dBm
1300nm 1550nm
MM SM
Extron FPM 101

MM SM
FIBER POWER METER

Extron FPM 101
Tone FIBER POWER METER
Tone
POWER
Fiber Optic POWER

POWER
Fiber Optic
Light Source
POWER
Power Meter Light Source Power Meter
Installed Cable Plant Loss Test FOTP-171 Patch Cord Loss Test
TIA FOTP-171 Patch Cord Test If one of the measurements is significantly higher,
The TIA FOTP-171 method is used for insertion the connector may be dirty or the fiber termination
loss testing of patch and reference cables, at the coupling could be poor. Cleaning or re-
isolating problems in an installed fiber plant, terminating the connector and retesting the fiber
and testing fiber cables prior to installation. This eliminates these possible issues. A higher than
method uses only a launch cable to measure loss expected measurement in both directions may
as shown in Figure 32. Therefore, the one-cable indicate dirty connectors, a defective reference
method is typically used to set the reference. The cable, a bad splice, or poor terminations at both
fiber cable under test is plugged directly into the ends of the cable. Clean all connectors, reset the
power meter. reference, and retest. If the high measurements
persist, replace the reference cable, reset the
The loss measured with the TIA FOTP-171 reference, and retest. Troubleshooting with a VFL
patch cord test method includes the connection or optical time domain reflectometer — OTDR
point between the launch cable and the fiber may also help isolate the problem.
under test. It does not include the connector
end at the power meter. The aperture of the Optical Time Domain Reflectometer —
power meter input provides high light coupling OTDR
efficiency but tends to mask any problems in the An optical time domain reflectometer is a
connector. Therefore, when using this method, it test instrument used for measuring loss and
is recommended to reverse the cable and repeat debugging problems as shown in Figure 33.
the test to obtain a second measurement.

OTDR Tester OTDR Trace
Connector
Connector
Fusion Splice
Cable End
Time/Distance

An OTDR sends an optical pulse down a fiber Selecting the Right Equipment Allow a 3 dB margin
cable, relying on light scattering in the cable to Once the fiber is identified, select the equipment when performing an
create reflections. Scattering is the dominant appropriate for the video source and display
optical loss analysis.
loss mechanism in fiber optic cables, fiber optic devices used in the AV system. If a switching
connectors, and mechanical splices. As the pulse system is required, the switching system can use
travels down the fiber, scattering continuously electrical or optical inputs and outputs. Optical
causes light to reflect back up the cable. The I/O may be more economical for larger systems,
OTDR measures the reflected light, and displays since electrical I/O may require additional
the results in an OTDR trace as shown in transmitters and receivers.
Figure 34.
Optical Loss Analysis
The slope of the line represents the scattering Determine the optical loss budget based on the
loss in the fiber cable in dB/km. Any abrupt selected equipment. Determine the worst-case
change in the trace is called an event, and may loss in the optical paths of the system, including
indicate a connector, splice, or cable break. The fiber, connectors, and splices. It is recommended
horizontal axis is time or distance, indicating the to allow for a 3 dB margin when performing an
position or location of the event. optical loss analysis.
Since an OTDR relies on reflected light, it Safety Considerations

indirectly measures cable loss. The difference in DO NOT LOOK DIRECTLY INTO AN ACTIVE
the vertical position on the trace from the start of LASER OR AT THE END OF AN ACTIVE FIBER
the cable and the end of the cable is the total loss since the laser light source is infrared, nothing can
in the fiber. Measuring loss with an OTDR is less be seen, but serious eye damage can occur.
accurate than measuring the loss directly with a
light source and power meter. However, it can be WEAR SAFETY GLASSES when working with
used to find the position of potential problems in small, sharp slivers of glass.
a fiber optic cable. Therefore, typically an OTDR
is used for debugging rather than measuring loss FIBER IS GLASS so use a black mat to provide a
in a fiber plant. good contrast. Refrain from eating and drinking in
the work area to avoid contamination of fiber and
AV System Design Considerations fiber components.
Selecting the Right Fiber
Designing a fiber optic system begins with SAFELY DISPOSE OF GLASS FIBERS!
proper fiber selection to achieve the required These safety rules help to prevent accidents and
transmission distance. For new installations of injuries. ■
multimode fiber, use OM4 laser-optimized fiber or
better to ensure that there is adequate bandwidth
for transmitting video and data signals. If dark
fiber is available, verify that the type of fiber is
adequate for the transmission distance required.
If the installed multimode fiber is inadequate
for the application, check to see if there is any
singlemode dark fiber installed, or consider
running a higher performance fiber.
www.extron.com 43
Fiber Optic AV System Design
AV professionals are System Requirements and Needs The detailed requirements for secure systems
now turning to fiber Assessment are often classified and not available to the
Performing a needs assessment and determining general public, but general guidelines have been
optic cabling to future-
the system requirements for a fiber optic AV declassified. Secure systems with black sources
proof AV systems. system are essentially the same as that of an must take great care to ensure red information
AV system using coaxial cabling, twisted pair, or does not “leak” out through the connection to the
other copper-based cabling. However, the use black source. Red and black systems must be
of fiber optic equipment does present unique electrically isolated from each other. In a copper-
benefits for future-proofing an AV system, based system, red and black signals must remain
providing isolation in secure environments, physically separated. Since fiber optic cables are
enabling systems in medical environments, and made of glass, a fiber optic system provides near-
routing signals in large venues. perfect electrical isolation between black and red
signals using a fiber optic transmitter and receiver,
Future-Proofing AV Systems see Figure 1.
As the number of video formats and resolutions
continue to proliferate, updating an AV system It should also be noted that the fiber optic black
to support a new format or resolution becomes signals must be unidirectional. Transmission
more difficult and costly. For example, an installed of any signal from a “red” secure system to
copper cabling infrastructure may not be able to an unsecure “black” system is not permitted.
handle newer, high speed digital video signals. Therefore, bidirectional fiber optic devices that
In response to this challenge, AV professionals use wavelength division multiplexing — WDM
are now turning to fiber optic cabling to future- techniques cannot be used to connect a black
proof AV systems. The ability of today’s fiber optic source to a red system.
cable to carry a video signal is, in essence, limited
only by the electronics attached to it. Installing Special Needs in Medical Environments
singlemode fiber or OM4 multimode fiber is the Modern day medical environments present
best alternative for future-proofing an AV system. some unique challenges and opportunities for
AV professionals. To ensure patients receive the
Secure Environments with Red / Black best care, medical professionals demand pixel-
Separation for-pixel image accuracy for all medical imaging
Secure environments include any system equipment and displays. In today’s surgical
that deals with sensitive information, such environments, medical imaging devices and
as government and military briefing rooms, displays are mounted on booms suspended from
emergency operations centers, or a corporate the ceiling for convenient use during a medical
presentation or planning room for proprietary procedure. The booms provide limited space for
technology. Many of these systems must running cabling to the displays. Additionally, the
access information from both secure and public use of sensitive electronic medical equipment
sources. Secure sources are referred to as “red” requires that AV cabling does not generate any
signals, while public sources are referred to as electromagnetic interference — EMI that could
“black” signals. affect the accuracy of the medical readings.
Figure 1.
Red / Black Separation Using Fiber Optics
Public Unidirectional Glass Fiber Unidirectional Secure AV

“Black” Fiber Optic Fiber Optic System
AV Source Transmitter Receiver “Red”

Fiber optic cabling can meet these challenges The switching system is typically configured as Fiber optic switching
when used with the appropriate fiber optic AV separate “rooms” or virtual matrix switchers. and distribution
equipment. Fiber provides the additional benefit This type of configuration, known as “rooming,”
systems typically
of isolating the medical imaging equipment from enables local control within each room, as if it had
the AV system. The ability to transmit signals a local switching system. occupy significantly
long distances over fiber allows AV equipment less rack space
to be located outside of the sterile surgical A central control room enables monitoring of all than copper-based
environment, and enables surgical imagery to be AV signals throughout the system, and helps
systems.
sent to classrooms or lecture halls in a teaching simplify maintenance and upgrades. It also
hospital. facilitates re-configuration of the system to allow
for multi-room conferences and multi-purpose
Long Distance Transmission in Large Venues rooms that can be used as overflow rooms.
Large venues, such as stadiums, arenas, Although a significant number of signals must
hospitals, college campuses, corporate be run to the control room, fiber optic cables are
campuses, and government installations, easy to pull since they are small and often contain
often involve the need to transmit AV signals several fibers.
over extreme distances. Fiber optic systems
can ensure high quality, pixel-for-pixel image Distributed Switching
transmission throughout a location, between In a distributed switching environment, Figure 3,
buildings, and even between facilities. For signal routing equipment is typically located in an
moderate distances within a building, select equipment closet within each room, permitting a
AV equipment for multimode fiber. For new room to operate independently from other rooms.
fiber installations, OM4 multimode fiber is However, AV signals may be routed to a central
recommended. Longer distances between equipment room to allow for central monitoring or
buildings or campuses require singlemode recording, or as inputs into another system. In this
systems. scenario, fewer signals are routed to the central
equipment room, as compared to a completely
Switching and Distribution System centralized system. Within a distributed
The switching and distribution system is the switching system, fiber optic cables may or may
heart of an AV system. The design of a fiber
optic switching and distribution system is similar
to other types of AV systems, but with some
important differences. The ability to transmit Figure 2.
Centralized Switching System
video, audio, and control on fiber optic cabling
enables enterprise-wide distribution of AV signals.
Fiber optic systems use a variety of signal routing
Video Video
architectures depending on the application. The Conference Conference
Room Room
following sections summarize basic topologies for
fiber optic distribution systems.
Central
Conference Control Conference
Centralized Switching Room Room Room
A centralized switching system, Figure 2, is

situated in a central control room where all
signal routing and distribution is accomplished. Training Training
Room Room
AV signals are physically cabled to a large
switching system in the central equipment room.
www.extron.com 45
Daisy-chaining allows not be used for each room, depending on the Figure 5.
Attenuation Causes Light in an Optical
a signal to be delivered application and distances involved. Fiber to Dim
to multiple destinations Light Travelling Down a Fiber

For example, in a university hospital, medical
without the need for images within an operating room are routed
routing or distribution through a switching system in the room’s
Light Intensity
equipment, or multiple equipment closet. A select number of signals are
sent to the central equipment room for distribution
transmitters.
to lecture halls and classrooms. A video recording
system may be located in the closet or the central
equipment room. Distance Travelled on Optic Fiber
Daisy-Chaining signal that is sent to the next receiver in the

Daisy-chaining, Figure 4, allows a signal to be daisy-chain. This configuration utilizes a single
delivered to multiple destinations without the fiber from the transmitter or matrix output to the
need for routing or distribution equipment, or first receiver in the chain. A single fiber connects
multiple transmitters. An AV signal from a single each consecutive receiver in the chain for
transmitter, or from a single output on a matrix efficient use of the fiber infrastructure. A daisy-
switcher is sent to a receiver with daisy-chain chain configuration is ideal for digital signage
capability. The receiver provides a loop-out applications.
Figure 3. Fiber Cabling System

Distributed Switching System - University Hospital
Attenuation in Fiber Optic Cables
Laser light tends to become “dimmer” as it travels
Operating Room 1 Assembly/Lecture Hall
down an optical fiber, see Figure 5. If the light is
Equipment
Equipment
Sources Sources
Closet
Closet
/ / too dim when it reaches the receiver, the receiver

Displays Displays
does not detect the light. This loss of light is
Operating Room 2 Classroom 1 called attenuation, and is due to losses in the
Central fiber connectors, and splices. When designing
Equipment
Equipment
Sources Equipment Sources

Closet
Closet
/
Displays
Room /
Displays
or installing a fiber optic system, the maximum
amount of allowable attenuation is determined by
Operating Room 3 Classroom 2 calculating the optical loss budget.
Equipment
Equipment
Sources Sources
Closet
Closet
/ /
Displays Displays • What is an Optical Loss Budget?
The optical loss budget is the maximum
allowable attenuation in a fiber system that still
enables detection of light at the destination.
Figure 4. It can be calculated as the difference between
Daisy Chain Configuration
the transmitter output power and the receiver
sensitivity: Optical Loss Budget = Transmitter
Output Power - Receiver Sensitivity.
The optical loss budget may also be provided

Fiber Optic Fiber Optic Fiber Optic Fiber Optic
on the data sheet for the fiber optic equipment
Receiver Receiver Receiver Receiver
and is given in decibels — dB. Extron FOX Series
products feature an optical link loss budget of

13 dB for singlemode products and 7 dB for • Splices vs. Patch Panels The optical loss budget
multimode products. This means that the intensity Patch panels provide a convenient mechanism to is the maximum
of the light can dim by 13 dB, or have up to 13 dB re-route fiber optic signals without having to pull
allowable attenuation
of attenuation, as it passes through connectors, new cables. Some designers may be tempted to
splices, and fiber, and still be detectable. use multiple patch panels to maximize flexibility. in a fiber system that
However, when designing an optical plant, it still enables detection
• How is the Optical Loss Budget Used in is important to minimize losses in optical links. of light at the receiver.
System Design? Although patch panels provide a convenient way
When planning a fiber plant installation, designers to re-route fiber signals, they also can introduce
sum the losses in the system to calculate the significant losses into a fiber optic system.
link loss for each fiber optic path. Losses in the
system come from fiber attenuation, connector For example, the connector loss in a
loss, and splice loss. The losses in an optical singlemode fiber is 0.5 dB, which is equivalent
link, expressed as dB, are summed with simple to adding approximately a 1,000 meter length
addition as Link Loss = Fiber Loss + Connector of singlemode fiber to that link. Therefore, it
Loss + Splice Loss. is recommended to use patch panels and
connectors only where necessary, such as a
Typical values for fiber attenuation, connector connection point for horizontal cabling to AV
loss, and splice loss are available for calculating equipment. Splice enclosures and trays are
the link loss. For optical fiber, the attenuation recommended for permanent connections such
depends on the fiber type and wavelength. as transitioning from outdoor to indoor cables or
Connector loss depends only on the number of repairing damaged fibers.
connectors. The amount of splice loss depends
on the number of splices and whether they are • Optical Losses in an Installed Fiber Plant
mechanical or fusion splices. Table 1 provides an For an existing structured cabling installation,
overview of typical loss values introduced with actual link loss may be provided as part of
fiber optic components. the documentation package for the cabling
infrastructure, or can be measured using an
The system loss margin is the difference between optical loss test set. An optical loss test set
the loss budget and link loss: System Loss includes a light source and a power meter. The
Margin = Optical Loss Budget - Link Loss. light source is used to transmit an optical signal
at a defined power level along an optical link.
The recommended system loss margin is The power meter measures the amount of light
typically 3 dB. The additional margin accounts for received at the other end of the link. Link loss
uncertainty in the loss calculation, ensuring that is calculated as the difference between the light
links continue to operate as components age, and source power and the measured power.
providing headroom for future splices or repairs.
Table 1. Typical Losses in a Fiber Optic System
Fiber Attenuation (dB/km) Splice Loss (dB/splice)
1300 / Connector Loss Fusion Mechanical

Fiber Type 850 nm 1310 nm 1550 nm (dB/pair) Splice Splice
Singlemode N/A 0.5 – 1.0 0.2 – 1.0 0.5 0.05 0.3
Multimode 3.0 – 3.5 1.0 – 1.5 N/A 0.75 0.05 0.3
www.extron.com 47
The actual link loss can Link Loss = Light Source Power – distance a video signal can propagate down
be measured using an Measured Power. a singlemode fiber is limited by its attenuation
• Example of Optical Link Loss Analysis rather than its bandwidth.
optical loss test set.
An optical link loss analysis adds up all of the
losses in the system caused by fiber cabling, Multimode fibers, on the other hand, have much
Optical Loss Test Set
connectors, and splices, and then compares the lower bandwidth than singlemode fibers, due to
total loss to the available loss budget. A safety the nature of multiple mode transmission down
margin of 3 dB is recommended. the fiber. Different types of multimode fibers have
been developed to improve performance; see
Consider an application using an Extron Table 1 in the section entitled, Fiber Optic Tutorial.
FOXBOX MM extender to transmit signals over AV manufacturers often specify the maximum
a 600 meter length of fiber with two fusion distance an optical extender can transmit for a
splices, see Figure 6. The installed fiber is given fiber type.
OM4‑type 50 μm multimode fiber with a specified
attenuation of 3.0 dB/km. The optical link loss is Signal Integrity in Fiber Optic Systems
calculated as shown in Table 2. Signal integrity in fiber optic systems involves
both the optical and electrical domains. In a
Bandwidth in Fiber Optic Cable fiber optic AV system, a video signal undergoes
In a fiber optic system, digital signals are
Table 2. Optical Link Loss Analysis
transmitted down optical fibers. The light source
Step 1 – Determine Loss Budget
is switched on for a digital one — 1, and off for A. Transmitter Output Power = -5 dBm
a digital zero — 0. The bandwidth is a measure B. Receiver Input Sensitivity = -12 dBm
of how fast the light source can switch on and C. Total Loss Budget: A - B = 7 dB
off to effectively transmit the digital optical signal. Step 2 – Determine Fiber Loss
Higher bandwidth means digital signals can be A. Operating Wavelength = 850 nm
transmitted at higher bit rates. Higher bit rates B. Fiber Attenuation per km = 3.0 dB/
(specification) km
translate into an increased information-carrying
C. Cable Length = 0.60 km
capacity and longer transmission distances. Fiber D. Fiber Loss: B x C = 1.8 dB
bandwidth depends on the length of the fiber; the
Step 3 – Determine Connector Loss
fiber type, and the type of light source being used
A. Number of Connector Pairs = 2
to transmit the signal. B. Loss per Connector Pair: = 0.75 dB
0.75 dB (MM), 0.5 dB (SM)
How Bandwidth Affects System Design and C. Total Connector Loss: A x B = 1.5 dB
Fiber Length Step 4 – Determine Splice Loss

In practical systems, singlemode fiber has A. Number of splices = 2
extremely high bandwidth. The maximum B. Loss per Splice: 0.3 dB = 0.05 dB
(mechanical), 0.05 dB (fusion)
Figure 6. C. Total Splice Loss = 0.1 dB
Fiber Optic System with Available Loss Budget of 7 dB
Step 5 – Calculate Optical Link Loss
600 m
3.0 dB/km
A. Fiber Loss (Step 2D) = 1.8 dB
B. Total Connector Loss (Step 3C) = 1.5 dB
C. Total Splice Loss (Step 4C) = 0.1 dB
0.75 dB 0.75 dB
Connector Connector D. Total Optical Link Loss: A + B + C = 3.4 dB
Fusion Fusion Step 6 – Calculate System Loss Margin
Splice Splice
0.05 dB 0.05 dB A. Total Loss Budget (Step 1C) = 7 dB
B. Total Optical Link Loss (Step 5D) = 3.4 dB
Power = -5 dBm Sensitivity = -12 dBm
Wavelength = 850 nm C. Total System Loss Margin: A – B = 3.6 dB
Data Rate = 4,250 Mbps
The system loss margin of 3.6 dB is adequate for this
application.
multiple conversions between the optical and 4. Avoid Splitting the Optical Signal It is important to clean
electrical domains. Maintaining signal integrity It is common for AV signals to have multiple both the fiber end and
in a fiber optic AV system ensures pixel-for-pixel destinations in today’s systems. Passive optical
the mating connector
image quality. The following guidelines represent splitters provide a simple and economical method
best practices for maintaining signal integrity in a to send an optical signal to two or more places, before making the
fiber optic AV system. but can lead to undesirable effects. Splitting connection because
optical signals to multiple outputs drastically a single speck of dust
1. Keep Optical Connections Clean reduces the optical power in each output path.
can completely block
For a singlemode fiber, the diameter of the core For example, a simple splitter reduces optical
carrying the light signal is about the same size as power by 3.5 to 4 dB. This additional loss is an optical video signal
the diameter of a dust particle. In other words, equivalent to adding up to 8 connectors or in a singlemode fiber.
a single speck of dust can completely block an patch panels, and is also equivalent to about
optical video signal in a singlemode fiber. For 4,000 feet of multimode fiber or nearly five miles
multimode fiber, as few as ten dust particles can of singlemode fiber. Switching and distribution
severely attenuate the signal. When working with products designed for fiber optic AV systems are
fiber optic connections, it is important to clean usually OEO types to prevent excessive losses in
both the fiber end and the mating connector optical power.
before making the connection. It is also important
to note that “dust” caps used on fiber connectors 5. Apply Signal Reclocking or Regeneration
do not prevent dust from accumulating on the for Optimal Signal Integrity
fiber or mating connector. The purpose of the cap Switching and distributing optical signals requires
is to protect the fiber from damage, not dirt. converting the optical signal to an electrical
signal, routing the signal to one or more outputs,
2. Use OM4 Multimode Fiber for New and converting the electrical signals back to the
Installations optical domain. Although these switching and
Legacy OM1‑type 62.5 μm and OM2‑type 50 μm distribution systems provide high quality signal
multimode fibers are capable of transmitting paths, multiple conversion processes may have
today’s video signals over moderate distances. a negative impact on signal quality and the
However, they were originally designed for much accumulation of jitter. An optical signal should
slower network signals using LED sources. be routed through no more than two switching
OM3‑type multimode fiber, also called laser- systems, including matrix switchers, switchers,
optimized multimode fiber, is designed for the or distribution amplifiers, without reclocking or
multi-gigabit signals common in today’s AV regenerating the signal.
systems. OM4 multimode fiber meets or exceeds
the highest performance needs, currently, and Extron FOX Series Matrix Switchers provide
has extra capacity to handle future data rates. selectable reclocking at 4.25, 2.125, or
1.25 Gbps rates. The selected rate must match
3. Avoid Adding Excess Attenuation the rate of the transmitter generating the fiber
Multiple patch panels may provide convenient optic AV signal. A bypass mode is also available,
points for re-routing optical signals, but each which passes the signal without reclocking.
additional connector adds attenuation into the
signal path. Perform an optical loss analysis Signal regeneration is accomplished by routing
during the system design phase to identify the fiber optic signal through a receiver port in
potential problems prior to fiber installation. daisy-chain mode. The receiver accepts the
Eliminating high attenuation paths in the design optical signal and restores the original video
phase helps to avoid costly workarounds during signal, and regenerates the AV signal in the
the implementation phase. optical domain. ■
www.extron.com 49
Notes

Fiber Optic System Designs
Fiber optics is a powerful medium for AV systems that offers the ability to address several needs and challenges beyond the scope of a
traditional coax or twisted pair infrastructure. For example, an application may require presentation of pristine, high resolution graphics
without any pixel loss, and the capability to support higher resolutions and future video formats. Conduit space often is very limited, and
there likely will be restrictions on modifying existing structures to allow for running new cables. Large environments such as sports arenas,
and applications calling for AV communication between buildings require the ability to send AV signals over substantial distances, from
thousands of feet up to several miles or kilometers. Furthermore, in applications such as command and control where content security is
essential, it will be necessary to isolate secure content from the non-secure part of the system.
The following AV system designs represent a cross-section of typical commercial AV environments where the scope, complexity, and
particular needs are optimally addressed with fiber optics. For each system design, a detailed application drawing depicts signal flow from
end-to-end, as well as the types of sources and displays that typically need to be supported.
Digital Signage Knowledge Wall
Sports Stadium Courtroom of the Future
Campus Technology Performing Arts Center
www.extron.com 51
Digital Signage
System Design Solution

Display Systems
Four 60-inch (153 cm) displays will be suspended from the ceiling or
mounted on the wall in the first floor lobby. For the second and third
floor lobbies, four 52-inch (132 cm) displays will be mounted on the
walls.
Sources and Connectivity

The content servers in the equipment room provide DVI output and
require local monitor support. The ATSC tuners have HDMI output,
but do not require a local monitor.
Switching and Signal Management

The Extron FOX SW8 Fiber Optic Switcher and FOX DA8 Plus Fiber
Optic Distribution Amplifier provide the distribution and routing of the
video sources to the displays in both the public and employee-only
areas of the building. The FOX DA8 Plus is configured as dual 1x4
Overview fiber optic distribution amplifiers to ensure each area receives the
This pharmaceutical building has public lobbies for customer access and appropriate content.
general admittance to the site. Employee lounges and cafeterias are located
throughout the building for lunch and other breaks. Signal Distribution and Extension
Extron FOX 500 DVI Tx Fiber Optic Transmitters accept the DVI video
Needs Assessment and stereo analog audio signals from the content servers, and send
Staffing Digital signage content will be created by the fiber optic signals. The loop-through output provides video to local
Marketing department for LCD displays located monitors for the content servers. Extron FOXBOX Tx DVI Plus Fiber
in public areas. Human Resources will create Optic Transmitters accept the HDMI video and stereo analog audio
content for the displays in the employee-only
areas. Trained personnel will upload the content.
from the Extron AVT 200 HD ATSC Tuners to send fiber optic signals.
The IT department is responsible for administering
the content server and performing updates. Fiber optic signals for employee content and ATSC tuners are sent
to inputs on the FOX SW8. The FOX SW8 is used to select and send
Display Flat-panel displays located throughout the public
Requirements areas will be used for advertising, news, events,
the desired signal to the FOX DA8 Plus for distribution to each display
stock prices, and other public relations material. in the employee-only area. The FOX DA8 Plus also accepts fiber
A flat panel display in each of the four employee optic signals from the public content server, distributing the signal
lounges will provide information about upcoming to the public display areas. The dual 1x4 configuration enables a
employee events, holiday schedules, weather
conditions, and other relevant data. The displays
single FOX DA8 Plus to operate as two independent 1x4 fiber optic
in the private areas may also be used to display distribution amplifiers.
television broadcasts from centrally located TV
receivers. The Extron FOXBOX Rx DVI Plus Fiber Optic Receivers are used at
Sources and Two off-air ATSC tuners and two PC-based each display to convert the fiber optic signals into DVI/HDMI video
Connectivity content servers will be located in the equipment and stereo analog audio. The FOXBOX Rx DVI Plus receivers in the
room. One server is for public content, and the public areas are connected in a daisy-chain configuration, enabling
other is for employee-only content. The ATSC
a single fiber from the FOX DA8 Plus to serve the same content to
tuner signals can be sent to displays in the
employee-only areas. multiple displays.
Audio Requirements Audio playback will be handled by loudspeakers
integrated into the displays.
Special The existing fiber infrastructure will be used to
Requirements send video and audio from the control room to
the various displays. The equipment room that
houses the content servers and ATSC tuners will
be located in the IT department.

Employee Lounge 1 Employee Lounge 2 Employee Lounge 3 Employee Lounge 4
Flat Panel Display Flat Panel Display Flat Panel Display Flat Panel Display
POWER POWER POWER POWER

12V MODE DVI-D OUTPUT AUDIO RS-232 12V MODE DVI-D OUTPUT AUDIO RS-232 12V MODE DVI-D OUTPUT AUDIO RS-232 12V MODE DVI-D OUTPUT AUDIO RS-232
1.0A MAX ON OVER FIBER ALARM 1.0A MAX ON OVER FIBER ALARM 1.0A MAX ON OVER FIBER ALARM 1.0A MAX ON OVER FIBER ALARM
1 2 1 2 1 2 1 2
FOXBOX Rx DVI Plus Tx Rx 1 2 FOXBOX Rx DVI Plus Tx Rx 1 2 FOXBOX Rx DVI Plus Tx Rx 1 2 FOXBOX Rx DVI Plus Tx Rx 1 2
Tx Rx Tx Rx Tx Rx Tx Rx
AUDIO
AUDIO
AUDIO
AUDIO
LINK
LINK
LINK
LINK
LINK
LINK
LINK
LINK
TEMP
TEMP
TEMP
TEMP
OVER
OVER
OVER
OVER
DVI
DVI
DVI
DVI
CONFIG CONFIG CONFIG CONFIG
FOXBOX Rx DVI Plus OPTICAL FOXBOX Rx DVI Plus OPTICAL FOXBOX Rx DVI Plus OPTICAL FOXBOX Rx DVI Plus OPTICAL
FOXBOX FOXBOX FOXBOX FOXBOX

Rx DVI Plus Rx DVI Plus Rx DVI Plus Rx DVI Plus
Control Room
FOX DA8 Plus

100-240V 0.3A
50/60 Hz
FOX SW8 100-240V 0.3A
50/60 Hz
FOX DA8 Plus
OPTICAL INPUTS OPTICAL OUTPUTS
1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8
Configured as
LOOP IN LOOP IN LOOP IN LOOP IN LOOP IN LOOP IN LOOP IN OUT IN OUT IN OUT N/A OUT IN OUT N/A OUT IN OUT N/A OUT IN OUT N/A
(1)1x8
(2)1x4
(4)1x2
N15779 N15779
RS-232 RS-232
OUTPUT Tx Rx
FOX SW8 A B C D Tx Rx
Dual 1x4 DAs
Tx Rx Tx Rx
AUDIO
AUDIO
LINK
LINK
LINK
LINK
TEMP
TEMP
OVER
OVER
Public
DVI
DVI
Employee
CONFIG CONFIG
FOXBOX FOXBOX
FOXBOX Tx DVI Plus FOXBOX Tx DVI Plus
Information
OPTICAL OPTICAL
Information POWER
12V
1.0A MAX
DVI-D INPUT AUDIO RS-232
OVER FIBER ALARM
POWER
12V
1.0A MAX
DVI-D INPUT AUDIO RS-232
OVER FIBER ALARM
Content FOXBOX Tx DVI Plus Tx Rx 1 2

Tx DVI Plus FOXBOX Tx DVI Plus Tx Rx 1 2
Tx DVI Plus Content
100-240V 0.8A
R G B R-Y A DIGITAL AUDIO
O U
U D L
VID I COAX OPTICAL LAN
T
O
P HDMI L R RS-232/IR
AIR/CABLE RESET
U O R
T YC H V B-Y Y U
50/60 Hz T RF IN Tx Rx IR +12V
AVT 200HD
100-240V
100-240V 0.3A
0.3A 100-240V
100-240V 0.3A
0.3A
50/60 Hz
RGB INPUT
RS-232 FOX
FOX500
500DVI
TxTx 50/60 Hz
RGB INPUT
RS-232 FOX
FOX500
500DVI
TxTx
INPUT LOOP THRU PASS THRU 100-240V 0.8A INPUT LOOP THRU PASS THRU
R G B R-Y A DIGITAL AUDIO
O U
DVI-D Tx Rx NA OPTICAL U D L
DVI-D Tx Rx NA OPTICAL
DDC 1 2* VID I COAX OPTICAL LAN DDC 1 2*
DVI-D RINPUT G B LOOP - THRU AUDIOINPUTS
AUDIO INPUTS T DVI-D RINPUT G B LOOP - THRU AUDIOINPUTS
AUDIO INPUTS
RESOL. O RESOL.
LINK
LINK
LINK
LINK
L L R R RS-232 P HDMI L R L L R R RS-232
CONTROL ALARM AIR/CABLE RS-232/IR RESET CONTROL ALARM
OR U O R OR
H/HV V T YC H V B-Y Y U H/HV V
RGB Tx Rx 1 2 * RETURN
OPTIONAL FOR 50/60 Hz T RF IN Tx Rx IR +12V RGB Tx Rx 1 2 * RETURN
OPTIONAL FOR
DATA DATA
FOX 500 DVI Tx AVT 200HD FOX 500 DVI Tx
Main Level Lobby- Public Area Level 2 Lobby- Public Area Level 3 Lobby- Public Area
FOXBOX FOXBOX FOXBOX
Rx DVI Plus Rx DVI Plus Rx DVI Plus
Flat Panel Display Tx Rx Flat Panel Display Tx Rx Flat Panel Display Tx Rx
AUDIO
AUDIO
AUDIO
LINK
LINK
LINK
LINK
LINK
LINK
TEMP
TEMP
TEMP
OVER
OVER
OVER
DVI
DVI
DVI
CONFIG CONFIG CONFIG
FOXBOX Rx DVI Plus OPTICAL FOXBOX Rx DVI Plus OPTICAL FOXBOX Rx DVI Plus OPTICAL
POWER POWER POWER

12V MODE DVI-D OUTPUT AUDIO RS-232 12V MODE DVI-D OUTPUT AUDIO RS-232 12V MODE DVI-D OUTPUT AUDIO RS-232
1.0A MAX ON OVER FIBER ALARM 1.0A MAX ON OVER FIBER ALARM 1.0A MAX ON OVER FIBER ALARM
1 2 1 2 1 2
FOXBOX Rx DVI Plus Tx Rx 1 2 FOXBOX Rx DVI Plus Tx Rx 1 2 FOXBOX Rx DVI Plus Tx Rx 1 2

AUDIO
AUDIO
AUDIO
LINK
LINK
LINK
LINK
LINK
LINK
TEMP
TEMP
TEMP
OVER
OVER
OVER
DVI
DVI
DVI
POWER POWER POWER

1 2 1 2 1 2

AUDIO
AUDIO
AUDIO
LINK
LINK
LINK
LINK
LINK
LINK
TEMP
TEMP
TEMP
OVER
OVER
OVER
DVI
DVI
DVI
POWER POWER POWER

1 2 1 2 1 2

AUDIO
AUDIO
AUDIO
LINK
LINK
LINK
LINK
LINK
LINK
TEMP
TEMP
TEMP
OVER
OVER
OVER
DVI
DVI
DVI
POWER POWER POWER

1 2 1 2 1 2
www.extron.com 53
Sports Stadium

Display Systems
A wide variety of display systems are located within this stadium.
Displays range from HD-SDI monitors and LCD flat panels, to LED
scoreboard and displays, and large-screen projectors. All displays
must accommodate up to 1080p and 1920x1200 signal resolutions.
Video Formats and Connectivity

HD-SDI is the predominant signal format distributed throughout the
stadium. However, many other signals, including DVI, composite,
and component video, are also provided by the various systems.
Main locations have direct connection to the routing system, which
also accommodates a large number of auxiliary patch locations for
alternate camera placement and other usage. An IPTV system is used
Overview
to support the hundreds of flat-panel displays mounted throughout
Sports venues of today have become much more than places people go to
simply watch a game. They have been built, or modernized, to include high the concourses, concession stands, and seating areas.
levels of technology for enhancing the overall experience for both the guests
in attendance and those viewing from the comfort of their homes. Fiber optic- Switching and Signal Management
based systems represent ideal solutions for addressing the many challenges An Extron FOX Matrix 14400 144x144 Fiber Optic Matrix Switcher
associated with stadium environments. This baseball stadium provides an
example of how implementation of a fiber optic infrastructure contributes to
is used as the main routing switcher within the system. The fiber
the success in implementing AV for these venues. I/O boards are capable of routing any signal format via Extron
FOX Series and FOXBOX Series Fiber Optic Transmitters and
Receivers. The matrix is also populated with HD-SDI boards to allow
Needs Assessment for direct connection of input and output HD-SDI signals to other
Staffing On game days, a large staff is required to devices in close proximity, such as a large HD-SDI router and one of
operate the various systems within the stadium. the in-house editing suites.
Professional camera operators positioned in
strategic locations provide continuous game and
crowd coverage. This information is distributed to
An Extron DMS 3600 36x36 DVI Matrix Switcher routes high
many other supporting systems for additional use. resolution computer graphics from signal processing equipment
Production staff is on hand to provide content and PCs in administrative areas for use within the main system,
editing and production services for broadcast boardroom, and conference rooms.
crews and material presentation to numerous
ancillary venues within the stadium.
Signal Distribution and Extension
Location The centralized equipment room serves as the
A fiber optic infrastructure is used to transport video signals to and
Requirements heart of the system for overall signal distribution to
the many facilities within the stadium. Main areas from the equipment room, addressing the need to send video signals
supported from this location include the master over very long distances and through narrow conduit.
control room, in-house editing suites, broadcast
truck lot, press box, administrative boardroom/ Extron FOX 3G HD-SDI Fiber Optic Transceivers transmit the HD-SDI
conference rooms, and entertainment venues output signals from the cameras to the equipment room, and receive
such as various stadium clubs.
the video signals from the control room via the FOX Matrix 14400.
Sources and Multiple broadcast cameras are positioned within
Connectivity the stadium to provide optimal coverage in full Extron PowerCage FOX DVI Plus Fiber Optic Transmitters and
HDTV 1080p resolution from several angles. Receivers are used within the equipment room. The PowerCage
The master control room receives live camera
FOX DVI Plus Fiber Optic Extender boards provide a compact,
feeds via the equipment room, and uses a large
production switcher to select between feeds and space-saving solution for efficiently mounting fiber optic signal
various inputs from slow motion systems, media extenders within an equipment rack.
servers, and graphics generators. Signals are
then fed back to the equipment room for further Video Signal Processing
distribution within the facility.
The Extron DVC 501 SD converts the HD-SDI and 3G-SDI live
Special The very long distances between areas and use of
broadcast signals from the professional mixer and switcher to a DVI-D
Requirements high resolution content dictate the need for fiber
optic signal distribution throughout the facility. video signal, for compatibility with the DMS 3600 matrix switcher
Signal routing equipment must accommodate residing in the equipment room.
a variety of standard and high definition video
formats, and high resolution computer graphics.

Remote Camera Locations
Low Home Camera High Home Camera Low First Base Camera Press Box #1 Camera
FOX 3G HD-SDI FOX 3G HD-SDI FOX 3G HD-SDI FOX 3G HD-SDI

POWER OPTICAL POWER OPTICAL POWER OPTICAL POWER OPTICAL
12V MODE 12V MODE 12V MODE 12V MODE
ON
0.3A MAX ON
0.3A MAX ON
0.3A MAX ON
1 2
1 2 1 2
1 2 1 2
1 2 1 2
1 2
HD/SDI IN HD/SDI IN HD/SDI IN HD/SDI IN
Tx Rx BUFFERED OUTPUTS Tx Rx BUFFERED OUTPUTS Tx Rx BUFFERED OUTPUTS Tx Rx BUFFERED OUTPUTS
High First Base Camera Low Third Base Camera High Third Base Camera Press Box #2 Camera

0.3A MAX ON
0.3A MAX ON
0.3A MAX ON
0.3A MAX ON
1 2
1 2 1 2
1 2 1 2
1 2 1 2
1 2
Center Field #1 Camera Center Field #2 Camera Concourse Level #1 Camera Concourse Level #2 Camera

0.3A MAX ON
0.3A MAX ON
0.3A MAX ON
0.3A MAX ON
1 2
1 2 1 2
1 2 1 2
1 2 1 2
1 2
Equipment Room
FOX 3G DVC
FOX Matrix 14400
100-240V ~ 0.5A MAX
INPUT OUTPUT
AUDIO
SDI / HD-SDI
BUFFERED LOOP-THROUGH DVI-D RGB / Y,R-Y,B-Y
L R
LINK
RS-232
50/60 Hz TX RX N/A Tx Rx
OUT IN OUT IN OUT IN OUT IN OUT IN OUT IN OUT IN OUT IN OUT IN OUT IN OUT IN OUT IN OUT IN OUT IN OUT IN OUT IN
To DVI Matrix
1 - 16
FAN ASSIMBLY A B C D E F G H I J K L M N O P
FOX 3G DVC
17 - 32
100-240V ~ 0.5A MAX

INPUT OUTPUT
A B C D E F G H I J K L M N O P AUDIO
SDI / HD-SDI
OUT IN OUT IN OUT IN OUT IN OUT IN OUT IN OUT IN OUT IN OUT IN OUT IN OUT IN OUT IN OUT IN OUT IN OUT IN OUT IN BUFFERED LOOP-THROUGH DVI-D RGB / Y,R-Y,B-Y
33 - 48
L R
LINK
RS-232
50/60 Hz TX RX
A B C D E F G H I J K L M N O P N/A Tx Rx
To DVI Matrix
49 - 64
A B C D E F G H I J K L M N O P
65 - 80
To Scoreboard
81 - 96
FAN ASSIMBLY
97 - 112
To Stadium Club A
OUT IN OUT IN OUT IN OUT IN OUT IN OUT IN OUT IN OUT IN OUT IN OUT IN OUT IN OUT IN OUT IN OUT IN OUT IN OUT IN 3G P BNC
113 - 128
A
A B
B C
C D
D E
E F
F G
G H
H II J
J K
K L
L M
M N
N O
O P
P
OUT IN OUT IN OUT IN OUT IN OUT IN OUT IN OUT IN OUT IN OUT IN OUT IN OUT IN OUT IN OUT IN OUT IN OUT IN OUT IN 3G P BNC
129 - 144
A
A B
B C
C D
D E
E F
F G
G H
H II J
J K
K L
L M
M N
N O
O P
P
To Stadium Club B
LAN
REMOTE
RS232/RS422 ACT LINK RESET
To HD-SDI Matrix
REDUNDANT
100-240V
50/60Hz
1.2A MAX.
PRIMARY
100-240V
To Press Box
50/60Hz
1.2A MAX.
ANAHEIM, CA
Control Room
Broadcast Trucks In-house Editing Suite
HDCAM High Definition
Slow Motion Graphics

MPEG IMX Digital BETACAM HDCAM Video System
POWER REMOTE EJECT

1(9P) 2(50P) RS-232C
PHONES
Media Server
ASSEMBLE INSERT MULTI RECORDER SHUTTLE/VAR
CONTROL
VIDEO TC CH1 CH2 CH3 CH3 CUE JOG
System Generator
HD SDI HD SDI HD SDI HD SDI JOG
VAR
PUSH/ PLAYER SHUTTLE
00:00:00:00
db db db db db SHIFT
0 0 0 0 0
10 10 10 10 10 ALARM SE FO
20 20 20 20 20 CHANNEL ER RW
KEY INHI V AR
DISPLAY
30 30 30 30 30 CONDITION RE D
40 40 40 40 40
FULL/FINE RESET
50 50 50 50 50
HOME F1 F2 F3 F4 F5 F6
1-4 L
LIST GOOD SHOT MARK TRIM REC REC INHI
EXT
REC/ PREROLL EDIT
INPUT CH1 5 CH2 6 CH3 7 CH4 8 IMX CUE MONITOR ERASE IN AUDIO OUT
REC 5-8 R STANDBY
MIXING DMC EDIT DELETE
ENTRY
MEMORY
REC REC
REW PLAY F FWD STOP
CH1 5 CH2 6 CH3 7 CH4 8 CUE PREVIEW AUTO EDIT REVIEW
PB PB IN OUT
UNITY VARIABLE
HDCAM
Captioning Captioning
High Definition
MPEG IMX Digital BETACAM HDCAM Video System
POWER REMOTE EJECT

1(9P) 2(50P) RS-232C
PHONES
Media Server
CONTROL
Equipment Equipment
VAR
PUSH/ PLAYER SHUTTLE
00:00:00:00
0 0 0 0 0
10 10 10 10 10 ALARM SE FO
20 20 20 20 20 CHANNEL ER RW
KEY INHI V AR
DISPLAY
30 30 30 30 30 CONDITION RE D
40 40 40 40 40
FULL/FINE RESET
50 50 50 50 50
1-4 L
EXT
REC/ PREROLL EDIT
REC 5-8 R STANDBY
ENTRY
MEMORY
REC REC
REW PLAY F FWD STOP
PB PB IN OUT
UNITY VARIABLE
www.extron.com 55
Campus Technology

Display Systems
Room display systems include projectors and LCD displays. Sizes,
types, and quantities depend on the application within each room.
The required resolution to be delivered to each room from the
central control room is 1080p. Signal processing is handled by the
equipment within each room.

Sources include video feeds from classrooms, lecture halls, video
conference systems, and conference rooms. Additionally, there are
shared resources from the centralized control room. All signals are
scaled to 1080p.
Overview Switching and Signal Management

Universities are centers of research as well as institutions for higher learning.
Campuses feature multiple buildings with classrooms, offices, computer The Extron FOX Matrix 320x Modular Fiber Optic Matrix Switcher
centers, lecture halls, and auditoriums. They are also leaders in the use of provides signal distribution and routing of all fiber optic AV signals.
technology to enhance the learning experience, and providing instruction to The I/O boards for the matrix switcher include both singlemode and
remote areas and satellite locations. multimode versions. The multimode boards are used to connect
rooms within the same building as the control room. Singlemode
Needs Assessment boards are used to transmit signals between campus buildings.
Staffing Professors, adjunct professors, guest lecturers,
The FOX Matrix 320x can switch any input to one or more outputs,
and student assistants are the typical users of the
audio-visual systems on a university campus. A including any combination of singlemode and multimode signals,
centralized control and equipment room allows providing a complete non-blocking distribution solution. The
component and system monitoring for usage FOX Matrix 320x can receive a signal on a multimode input, and route
and security purposes. Centralized control also
it through a singlemode output to a distant location.
enables multicasting video content for distance
learning, assigning classrooms for overflow
usage, and providing access to resources that are Signal Distribution and Extension
in remote locations. Extron FOXBOX Tx HDMI Fiber Optic Transmitters are used to
Display Display and audio requirements within send high resolution computer and Blu-ray Disc signals from the
and Audio classrooms, lecture halls, and conference classrooms, lecture halls, auditoriums, and conference rooms to the
Requirements rooms vary, depending on the AV functions in centralized control room. By routing signals to the control room, each
each location. Video signals at resolutions up to
1920x1200 and stereo audio must be transmitted is available throughout the campus.
between the control room and all displays.
For independent processing and routing of audio signals in the fiber
Multi-Building Classrooms, conference rooms, and video
optic AV distribution system, the Extron FOX AEX 108 Eight Port
Connectivity conference areas must allow routing to a central
control room located in a separate building. Fiber Optic Audio Extractor provides analog stereo audio signals to
Fiber optic cabling between buildings will provide support local audio processing equipment. It then re-transmits the
connectivity to the equipment room. original signal to the FOX Matrix 320x.
Control Interface A control system within each classroom will allow
operation of the equipment located within the The pan, tilt, and zoom — PTZ cameras within the rooms use
classroom environment. Extron FOXBOX Tx VGA/YUV Fiber Optic Transmitters to send high
resolution video signals to the control room for use by the lecture
Special Distances between buildings on campus will
Requirements potentially exceed 2 kilometers (6,500 feet), capture systems and video teleconference — VTC hardware.
requiring the use of singlemode fiber optic
cables to connect to the centralized control Extron FOXBOX Rx HDMI Fiber Optic Receivers installed in the
room. Multimode fiber can be used within the classrooms, conference rooms, auditoriums, and lecture halls convert
classrooms, as well as for connecting rooms
optical signals from the control room into 1080p HDMI video with
within the building that houses the control room.
embedded audio for the various display devices.

Classrooms Lecture Halls Auditoriums
FOXBOX Tx HDMI FOXBOX Tx HDMI FOXBOX Tx HDMI

Fiber Optic Transmitter Fiber Optic Transmitter Fiber Optic Transmitter
POWER FOXBOX Tx HDMI Tx Rx POWER FOXBOX Tx HDMI Tx Rx POWER FOXBOX Tx HDMI Tx Rx
12V RS-232 12V RS-232 12V RS-232
LINK
LINK
LINK
LINK
LINK
LINK
1.0A MAX OVER FIBER ALARM 1.0A MAX OVER FIBER ALARM 1.0A MAX OVER FIBER ALARM
HDMI AUDIO INPUT Tx Rx 1 2 OPTICAL HDMI AUDIO INPUT Tx Rx 1 2 OPTICAL HDMI AUDIO INPUT Tx Rx 1 2 OPTICAL
FOXBOX Tx VGA/YUV FOXBOX Tx HDMI FOXBOX Tx VGA/YUV FOXBOX Tx HDMI FOXBOX Tx VGA/YUV FOXBOX Tx HDMI
Fiber Optic Transmitter Fiber Optic Transmitter Fiber Optic Transmitter Fiber Optic Transmitter Fiber Optic Transmitter Fiber Optic Transmitter
Tx Rx POWER FOXBOX Tx HDMI Tx Rx Tx Rx POWER FOXBOX Tx HDMI Tx Rx Tx Rx POWER FOXBOX Tx HDMI Tx Rx
12V RS-232 12V RS-232 12V RS-232
AUDIO
AUDIO
AUDIO
LINK
LINK
LINK
LINK
LINK
LINK
LINK
LINK
LINK
LINK
LINK
LINK
TEMP
TEMP
TEMP
OVER
OVER
OVER
RGB/
RGB/
RGB/
1.0A MAX OVER FIBER ALARM 1.0A MAX OVER FIBER ALARM 1.0A MAX OVER FIBER ALARM
YUV
YUV
YUV
HDMI AUDIO INPUT Tx Rx 1 2 OPTICAL HDMI AUDIO INPUT Tx Rx 1 2 OPTICAL HDMI AUDIO INPUT Tx Rx 1 2 OPTICAL
FOXBOX Tx VGA/YUV OPTICAL FOXBOX Tx VGA/YUV OPTICAL FOXBOX Tx VGA/YUV OPTICAL
DSP and Audio

Distribution OUT IN OUT IN OUT IN OUT IN OUT IN OUT IN OUT IN OUT IN OUT IN OUT IN OUT IN OUT IN OUT IN OUT IN OUT IN OUT IN
1 - 16
System
17 - 32
33 - 48
100-240V ~ 3.0A 100-240V ~ 3.0A
L AUDIO R L AUDIO R L AUDIO R L AUDIO R L AUDIO R L AUDIO R L AUDIO R L AUDIO R L AUDIO R L AUDIO R L AUDIO R L AUDIO R L AUDIO R L AUDIO R L AUDIO R L AUDIO R
49 - 64
+ - + - + - + - + - + - + - + - + - + - + - + - + - + - + - + - + - + - + - + - + - + - + - + - + - + - + - + - + - + - + - + -
Tx Rx Tx Rx Tx Rx Tx Rx Tx Rx Tx Rx Tx Rx Tx Rx Tx Rx Tx Rx Tx Rx Tx Rx Tx Rx Tx Rx Tx Rx Tx Rx
65 - 80
50/60 Hz 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 50/60 Hz 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8
FOX AEX 108

81 - 96
FAN ASSIMBLY
Eight Port Fiber Optic

97 - 112
Audio Extractor
113 - 128
129 - 144
145 - 160
161 - 176
177 - 192
193 - 208
209 - 224
225 - 240
241 - 256
FAN ASSIMBLY
257 - 272
273 - 288
289 - 304
305 - 320
REDUNDANT POWER SUPPLY 1
REDUNDANT POWER SUPPLY 2

PRIMARY POWER SUPPLY 1
PRIMARY POWER SUPPLY 2

RESET
ACT LINK

LAN
REDUNDANT
100-240V
RS232/RS422
50/60Hz
REMOTE
6.4A MAX.
PRIMARY
100-240V
50/60Hz
6.4A MAX.
ANAHEIM, CA
FOX Matrix 320x

Modular Fiber Optic
Matrix Switcher
POWER Tx Rx OUTPUTS POWER Tx Rx OUTPUTS POWER Tx Rx OUTPUTS

12V HDMI AUDIO AUDIO RS-232 REMOTE 12V HDMI AUDIO AUDIO RS-232 REMOTE 12V HDMI AUDIO AUDIO RS-232 REMOTE
LINK
LINK
LINK
LINK
LINK
LINK
1.0A MAX ON L R OVER FIBER ALARM RS-232 1.0A MAX ON L R OVER FIBER ALARM RS-232 1.0A MAX ON L R OVER FIBER ALARM RS-232
OPTICAL FOXBOX Rx HDMI OFF HDMI Tx Rx 1 2 Tx Rx OPTICAL FOXBOX Rx HDMI OFF HDMI Tx Rx 1 2 Tx Rx OPTICAL FOXBOX Rx HDMI OFF HDMI Tx Rx 1 2 Tx Rx
FOXBOX Rx HDMI FOXBOX Rx HDMI FOXBOX Rx HDMI

POWER Tx Rx OUTPUTS POWER Tx Rx OUTPUTS POWER Tx Rx OUTPUTS
12V HDMI AUDIO AUDIO RS-232 REMOTE 12V HDMI AUDIO AUDIO RS-232 REMOTE 12V HDMI AUDIO AUDIO RS-232 REMOTE
LINK
LINK
LINK
LINK
LINK
LINK
1.0A MAX ON L R OVER FIBER ALARM RS-232 1.0A MAX ON L R OVER FIBER ALARM RS-232 1.0A MAX ON L R OVER FIBER ALARM RS-232
OPTICAL FOXBOX Rx HDMI OFF HDMI Tx Rx 1 2 Tx Rx

Fiber Optic Receiver OPTICAL FOXBOX Rx HDMI OFF HDMI Tx Rx 1 2 Tx Rx
Fiber Optic Receiver OPTICAL FOXBOX Rx HDMI OFF HDMI Tx Rx 1 2 Tx Rx
Fiber Optic Receiver
FOXBOX Rx HDMI FOXBOX Rx HDMI FOXBOX Rx HDMI
Fiber Optic Receiver Fiber Optic Receiver Fiber Optic Receiver
Classrooms Lecture Halls Auditoriums
www.extron.com 57
Knowledge Wall

Display Systems
Four 60-inch (153 cm) displays are mounted to the walls in the main
command area. Eight thin-bezel LCD displays are configured in a
4x2 array to support large screen, multi-image viewing as the central
knowledge wall.

PCs in the command center and public network feeds include DVI/
HDMI outputs and local monitors. The secure video feeds provide
DVI/HDMI signals and have local monitors. Broadcast satellite feeds
use DVI/HDMI video with analog stereo audio. Air-to-ground, traffic,
and security camera platforms use DVI/HDMI video.
Overview Switching and Signal Management

A knowledge wall is the center of aggregated information used for monitoring
and analyzing to make critical decisions related to security, emergency services The Extron FOX Matrix 14400 provides distribution and routing of all
providers, law enforcement, and military organizations. Multiple sources, both video sources to displays located throughout the facility. The modular
secure and public, are used within the command center for making decisions. and hot-swappable design of the I/O cards and the redundant
These sources of information are then displayed on the knowledge wall. This hot-swappable power supplies make this matrix switcher ideal for
fast-paced and mission critical environment typically consists of the main
mission-critical environments like command and control centers or
command area, offices, meeting rooms, and briefing rooms.
emergency operations centers.
Needs Assessment Signal Distribution and Extension

Staffing The command center personnel could include Extron FOX 500 DVI Tx Fiber Optic Transmitters are used to
representatives from various agencies or
send the video output of the PCs in the command center to the
supporting organizations. A large number of
people constantly monitor incoming video, FOX Matrix 14400. There is a buffered monitor output to support local
notices, and other content. When a situation monitors at the workstations.
requires more attention, a team is formed, utilizing
offices and meeting rooms to further analyze The secure video feeds use Extron FOX 500 DVI Tx Fiber Optic
the situation and decide on a course of action. Transmitters to send signals to the FOX Matrix 14400.
Briefing rooms provide a venue for presenting
findings to a larger group, or briefing other
Each display within the meeting rooms and briefing rooms use the
organizations or individuals.
Extron FOXBOX Rx DVI Plus Fiber Optic Receiver to convert the
Display A video wall, comprised of multiple LCD panels optical signal from the FOX Matrix 14400 into DVI/HDMI video with
Requirements and several large displays, is needed in the main
stereo analog audio.
command area for monitoring the multitude of
data streams coming into the center. Any source
can be switched to one or more displays in the The Extron PowerCage™ 1600 Modular Power Enclosure with
main command area, office space, meeting PowerCage FOX Rx DVI Plus Fiber Optic Receiver boards converts
rooms or briefing centers. fiber optic signals to DVI/HDMI video for the Extron Quantum® Elite
Sources and Video feeds include public broadcasts from HDCP-Compliant, Scalable Videowall Processing System.
Connectivity multiple satellite receivers, traffic camera systems,
security cameras, air-to-ground from aircraft or Video Signal Processing
UAV platforms, and other sites within the theater
of operation. A VTC in the equipment room The Extron Quantum Elite is a flexible, scalable video processor with
provides a secure channel for communication a variety of input, output, and windowing capabilities. Configured here
with other sites. Additionally, there are public to accept up to 16 DVI/HDMI video inputs, it displays the data in a
and secure computers that provide data to variety of scenarios on the 4x2 panel array.
the system. These computers must support a
local monitor in addition to a connection to the
knowledge wall.
Audio Requirements Satellite broadcasts include audio feeds that need
to be routed with the video signals.
Special Video sources include both secure and non-
Requirements secure sources that are referred to as red and
black sources, respectively. Red systems must
remain electrically isolated from the black system
to prevent unauthorized access to sensitive
information.

Air to Ground Security
Camera Camera Secure Video Tele Conference 2 Briefing Rooms
Feeds Feeds
(4 places) (16 places)
Tx Rx Tx Rx
Satellite Receivers
AUDIO
AUDIO
LINK
LINK
LINK
LINK
TEMP
OVER
TEMP
OVER
Traffic
DVI
DVI
CONFIG CONFIG
(8 places) FOXBOX Tx DVI Plus FOXBOX Rx DVI Plus
Camera
OPTICAL OPTICAL
POWER POWER
12V MODE DVI-D INPUT AUDIO RS-232 12V MODE DVI-D OUTPUT AUDIO RS-232
1.0A MAX OVER FIBER ALARM 1.0A MAX OVER FIBER ALARM
Feeds
ON ON
1 2 1 2
FOXBOX FOXBOX
(32 places)
POWER
12V MODE
POWER
12V MODE
POWER
12V MODE
PTZ Camera Tx DVI Plus Rx DVI Plus
DVI-D INPUT AUDIO RS-232 DVI-D INPUT AUDIO RS-232 DVI-D INPUT AUDIO RS-232
MVC 121
1 2 1 2 1 2
FOXBOX Tx DVI Plus Tx Rx 1 2 FOXBOX Tx DVI Plus Tx Rx 1 2 FOXBOX Tx DVI Plus Tx Rx 1 2
Plus
Tx Rx Tx Rx Tx Rx 1 3 6
INPUTS OUTPUTS
MVC 121 Plus I VID YC
LISTED
U S 1T23
OUTPUT AUDIO INPUT OUTPUT
AUDIO
AUDIO
AUDIO
C
L LINE 3 R L VARIABLE R
LINK
LINK
LINK
LINK
LINK
LINK
TEMP
TEMP
TEMP
OVER
OVER
OVER
I.T.E.
1 2 3 4 5 6 A
DVI
DVI
DVI
N RGB L L
CONFIG CONFIG CONFIG RESET RGB Y, B-Y, R-Y
POWER MIC P B RS-232
12V +48V VID YC
7 8 L R
0.4A MAX
1
1 MIC/LINE 2 L FIXED R RS-232 DIGI IN
U R R
FOXBOX Tx DVI Plus OPTICAL FOXBOX Tx DVI Plus OPTICAL FOXBOX Tx DVI Plus OPTICAL 2
Tx Rx 1 2 3
T 2 4
Y B-Y
5
R-Y RGB
7
DVI
8

Tx DVI Plus Tx DVI Plus Tx DVI Plus IN1508
(16 places)
POWER
(4 places)
POWER RGB/YUV INPUT
12V RS-232 12V MODE DVI-D OUTPUT AUDIO RS-232
AUDIO
1 2
FOXBOX Tx VGA/YUV Tx Rx 1 2 FOXBOX Rx DVI Plus Tx Rx 1 2

POWER
Projector
12V MODE DVI-D INPUT AUDIO RS-232 • P U S H
•
1.0A MAX ON OVER FIBER ALARM • P U •
Rx
S H
Tx Tx Rx
AUDIO
LINK
LINK
TEMP
AUDIO
OVER
LINK
LINK
RGB/
TEMP
OVER
YUV
1 2
DVI
Tx Rx 1 2 CONFIG CONFIG
FOXBOX Tx DVI Plus
Tx Rx FOXBOX Tx VGA/YUV OPTICAL FOXBOX Rx DVI Plus OPTICAL Microphones

AUDIO
LINK
LINK
TEMP
OVER
FOXBOX FOXBOX
DVI
CONFIG
FOXBOX Tx VGA/YUV Rx DVI Plus

(8 places)
Tx DVI Plus
(32 places)
20 Meeting Rooms
1 - 16
17 - 32
Tx Rx
Internet/
AUDIO
LINK
LINK
TEMP
OVER
DVI
CONFIG
Public
FOXBOX Rx DVI Plus OPTICAL
FOXBOX
33 - 48
POWER
12V MODE
Network
DVI-D OUTPUT AUDIO RS-232
1.0A MAX ON OVER FIBER ALARM
Rx DVI Plus
A B C D E F G H I J K L M N O P 1 2
FOXBOX Rx DVI Plus Tx Rx 1 2
Feeds
49 - 64
(8 places) OUT
A
IN OUT
B
IN OUT
C
IN OUT
D
IN OUT
E
IN OUT
F
IN OUT
G
IN OUT
H
IN OUT
I
IN OUT
J
IN OUT
K
IN OUT
L
IN OUT
M
IN OUT
N
IN OUT
O
IN OUT
P
IN
65 - 80
81 - 96
1 3 6
I VID YC C
LISTED
U S 1T23
OUTPUT AUDIO INPUT OUTPUT
I.T.E.
1 2 3 4 5 6 A
N RGB L L
FAN ASSIMBLY RGB Y, B-Y, R-Y
A B C D E F G H I J K L M N O P P
VID YC B RS-232
7 8 L R
U R R
OUT IN OUT IN OUT IN OUT IN OUT IN OUT IN OUT IN OUT IN OUT IN OUT IN OUT IN OUT IN OUT IN OUT IN OUT IN OUT IN T Y B-Y R-Y RGB DVI
97 - 112
2 4 5 7 8
OUT
A
IN OUT
B
IN OUT
C
IN OUT
D
IN OUT
E
IN OUT
F
IN OUT
G
IN OUT
H
IN OUT
I
IN OUT
J
IN OUT
K
IN OUT
L
IN OUT
M
IN OUT
N
IN OUT
O
IN OUT
P
IN
IN1508
113 - 128
100-240V 0.3A
50/60 Hz
RS-232
PASS THRU
FOX 500 DVI Tx
DVI-D Tx Rx NA OPTICAL OUT IN OUT IN OUT IN OUT IN OUT IN OUT IN OUT IN OUT IN OUT IN OUT IN OUT IN OUT IN OUT IN OUT IN OUT IN OUT IN
129 - 144
DVI-D INPUT DDC LOOP - THRU AUDIO INPUTS 1 2*

RESOL.
LINK
LINK
RS-232
L R CONTROL ALARM
Tx Rx 1 2 * RETURN
OPTIONAL FOR
DATA
LAN
REMOTE
FOX 500 DVI Tx

(8 places)
RS232/RS422 ACT LINK RESET

Flat Panel Display
FOX 500 DVI Tx
REDUNDANT
100-240V
50/60Hz
1.2A MAX.
(8 places)
PRIMARY
100-240V
100-240V 0.3A 50/60Hz
50/60 Hz
RS-232
PASS THRU
FOX 500 DVI Tx 1.2A MAX.
ANAHEIM, CA
RESOL.
LINK
LINK
RS-232
L R CONTROL ALARM
Tx Rx 1 2 * RETURN
OPTIONAL FOR
DATA
FOX Matrix 14400
PowerCage PowerCage
1600 1600
Media Room
PowerCage 1600 PowerCage 1600 PowerCage PowerCage PowerCage PowerCage PowerCage PowerCage PowerCage PowerCage PowerCage 1600 PowerCage 1600 PowerCage PowerCage PowerCage PowerCage PowerCage PowerCage PowerCage PowerCage
Power Supply Power Supply FOX Rx DVI FOX Rx DVI FOX Rx DVI FOX Rx DVI FOX Rx DVI FOX Rx DVI FOX Rx DVI FOX Rx DVI Power Supply Power Supply FOX Rx DVI FOX Rx DVI FOX Rx DVI FOX Rx DVI FOX Rx DVI FOX Rx DVI FOX Rx DVI FOX Rx DVI
Plus Plus Plus Plus Plus Plus Plus Plus Plus Plus Plus Plus Plus Plus Plus Plus
Rx
Rx
Rx
Rx
Rx
Rx
Rx
Rx
Rx
Rx
Rx
Rx
Rx
Rx
Rx
Rx
Tx
Tx
Tx
Tx
Tx
Tx
Tx
Tx
Tx
Tx
Tx
Tx
Tx
Tx
Tx
Tx
RS-232 ALARM
RS-232 ALARM
RS-232 ALARM
RS-232 ALARM
RS-232 ALARM
RS-232 ALARM
RS-232 ALARM
RS-232 ALARM
RS-232 ALARM
RS-232 ALARM
RS-232 ALARM
RS-232 ALARM
RS-232 ALARM
RS-232 ALARM
RS-232 ALARM
RS-232 ALARM
1 2
1 2
1 2
1 2
1 2
1 2
1 2
1 2
1 2
1 2
1 2
1 2
1 2
1 2
1 2
1 2
OVER FIBER
OVER FIBER
OVER FIBER
OVER FIBER
OVER FIBER
OVER FIBER
OVER FIBER
OVER FIBER
OVER FIBER
OVER FIBER
OVER FIBER
OVER FIBER
OVER FIBER
OVER FIBER
OVER FIBER
OVER FIBER
REMOTE
REMOTE
REMOTE
REMOTE
REMOTE
REMOTE
REMOTE
REMOTE
REMOTE
REMOTE
REMOTE
REMOTE
REMOTE
REMOTE
REMOTE
REMOTE
RS-232
RS-232
RS-232
RS-232
RS-232
RS-232
RS-232
RS-232
RS-232
RS-232
RS-232
RS-232
RS-232
RS-232
RS-232
RS-232
Tx Rx
Tx Rx
Tx Rx
Tx Rx
Tx Rx
Tx Rx
Tx Rx
Tx Rx
Tx Rx
Tx Rx
Tx Rx
Tx Rx
Tx Rx
Tx Rx
Tx Rx
Tx Rx FOXBOX
Tx Rx
Tx Rx
Tx Rx
Tx Rx
Tx Rx
Tx Rx
Tx Rx
Tx Rx
Tx Rx
Tx Rx
Tx Rx
Tx Rx
Tx Rx
Tx Rx
Tx Rx
Tx Rx
R
R
AUDIO
AUDIO
AUDIO
AUDIO
AUDIO
AUDIO
AUDIO
AUDIO
AUDIO
AUDIO
AUDIO
AUDIO
AUDIO
AUDIO
AUDIO
AUDIO
Rx DVI Plus
L
Secure
LISTED LISTED
1T23 1T23
OUTPUT
OUTPUT
OUTPUT
OUTPUT
OUTPUT
OUTPUT
OUTPUT
OUTPUT
OUTPUT
OUTPUT
OUTPUT
OUTPUT
OUTPUT
OUTPUT
OUTPUT
OUTPUT
C US C US
L.T.E. L.T.E.
Network (7 places)
100-240V 50/60Hz 100-240V 50/60Hz
DVI
DVI
DVI
DVI
DVI
DVI
DVI
DVI
DVI
DVI
DVI
DVI
DVI
DVI
DVI
DVI
5A MAX. 5A MAX.
Feeds
Tx Rx
AUDIO
LINK
LINK
TEMP
OVER
DVI
CONFIG
(8 places) POWER
12V MODE DVI-D OUTPUT AUDIO RS-232

1 2
PowerCage PowerCage
FOX Rx DVI Plus FOX Rx DVI Plus
POWER DATA
Flat Panel Display

QUANTUM ELITE (7 places)
Quantum Elite POWER

12V
1.0A MAX
MODE DVI-D INPUT AUDIO RS-232
OVER FIBER ALARM
FOXBOX
ON
1 2
Tx DVI Plus Tx Rx
AUDIO
LINK
LINK
TEMP
OVER
DVI
CONFIG
(8 places) FOXBOX Tx DVI Plus OPTICAL
Tx Rx
AUDIO
LINK
LINK
Tx Rx
TEMP
Rx
OVER
Tx
DVI
FOXBOX
AUDIO
AUDIO
LINK
LINK
TEMP
LINK
LINK
OVER
TEMP
CONFIG
OVER
DVI
DVI
FOXBOX FOXBOX
CONFIG CONFIG
Rx DVI Plus
FOXBOX Rx DVI Plus OPTICAL FOXBOX Rx DVI Plus OPTICAL
Rx DVI Plus Rx DVI Plus

POWER
POWER POWER 1.0A MAX OVER FIBER ALARM
ON
12V MODE DVI-D OUTPUT RS-232 12V MODE DVI-D OUTPUT AUDIO RS-232
AUDIO
1.0A MAX ON OVER FIBER ALARM 1.0A MAX ON OVER FIBER ALARM
(4 places)
1 2
1 2 1 2 FOXBOX Rx DVI Plus Tx Rx 1 2
FOXBOX Rx DVI Plus Tx Rx 1 2 FOXBOX Rx DVI Plus Tx Rx 1 2
4x2 Videowall Flat Panel

Local PC Display
FOX 500 DVI Tx

(12 places)
100-240V 0.3A
50/60 Hz
RS-232
PASS THRU
FOX 500 DVI Tx
RESOL.
LINK
LINK
RS-232
Computer Display
L R CONTROL ALARM
Tx Rx 1 2 * RETURN
OPTIONAL FOR
(8 places)
DATA
Command Center
www.extron.com 59
Courtroom of the Future

Display Systems
ight LCD HDTV displays are required in the jury box to display
E
electronic evidence and other content. Two displays each are located
at the prosecution and defense tables to display electronic evidence
and for viewing remote testimonies via the video conference system.
Two large LCD displays are located near the judge and witness box
for viewing electronic evidence and a remote witness. A projection
system is also available for displaying electronic evidence. Three large
LCD displays are provided for the gallery to view electronic evidence
and any remote testimony.

Overview Laptop connections are provided at the prosecution and defense
The Courtroom of the Future relies on a fiber infrastructure to ensure that
tables. Lectern equipment includes a PC, document camera, and
future upgrades to the AV system can use the existing cabling. It provides a
model that can be readily adapted to various applications such as municipal, a DVD/VCT combination player for presenting evidence. An Extron
county, district, or superior courts. The AV system provides a modern means Annotator is installed in the lectern for marking up electronic images.
of presenting and storing evidence so that time required for a court proceeding
is reduced, thus allowing for more cases to be handled without having to Switching and Signal Management
expand physical court facilities. By integrating videoconferencing systems into
the court, remotely located experts can contribute to the case. Additionally, An Extron SMX FOX 16x16 Fiber Optic Switcher Board is the heart of
videoconference capabilities allow for video arraignment, with the defendant the switching and distribution system. All video signals are converted
held in a more secure location. to a fiber optic signal using the appropriate FOX Series Fiber Optic
Transmitter, and routed to an input on the SMX FOX fiber optic board.
Needs Assessment The board is installed in an SMX System MultiMatrix™ enclosure
Staffing The judge and clerk are responsible for managing in the equipment room. Larger courthouses use multiple SMX FOX
the courtroom. They both need touchpanel displays boards, one for each courtroom. A FOX Series Matrix Switcher can
with video confidence feedback to control and be substituted for the SMX System MultiMatrix to provide up to a
manage content throughout the proceedings. The
320x320 fiber optic matrix. If a larger fiber optic matrix is required, the
clerk may be required to display recorded evidence
from his or her workstation PC. Either the judge or Matrix 1k program can accommodate matrix switcher sizes up to
the clerk may restrict viewing of the evidence to the 1000x1000 or larger.
jury and audience, by muting the video signal to
specific displays. A FOX DA8 Plus Fiber Optic Distribution Amplifier provides the video
Display Displays are required for the jury box, such as found signals for the jury box monitors.
Requirements in a federal bankruptcy court, so that each juror
may have an unobstructed view of the evidence Signal Distribution and Extension
being presented or of testimony from a remote
witness. The prosecution and defense tables have Extron FOX Series and FOXBOX Series Fiber Optic Extenders are
two monitors each: one for displaying evidence used extensively to interface sources and displays to the fiber optic
and the other for viewing information from the infrastructure.
videoconference system. A projection system may
also be used to display information. Extron FOX USB Extenders provide a convenient connection point
Sources and Laptops, PCs, paper documents, and video for a touchpanel and keyboard at both the defense and prosecution
Connectivity presentations are the primary content used to tables for using the Extron Annotator to present evidence. The
introduce and show evidence to the judge and/
or jury. Electronic evidence is submitted through a
Annotator is configured so that a different color is used for marking up
central evidence center, and may require annotation electronic images based on the location — yellow for lectern, red for
or markup to highlight specific details. A touchpad defense, and green for prosecution.
and keyboard for annotating evidence is provided at
the lectern, the defense table, and the prosecution
table. Different annotation colors are used at each
location.
Special A fiber optic infrastructure and switching system
Requirements is used for the distribution of all video signals. The
use of a fiber optic infrastructure “future-proofs”
the system, ensuring future video resolutions
and rates are supported. In a larger courthouse,
switching systems for multiple courtrooms can
be consolidated into a central equipment room to
simplify cabling and reduce costs.

Lectern Defense
FOXBOX Tx VGA
Tx Rx
AUDIO
Cable Cubby 200
LINK
LINK
TEMP
OVER
RGB
CONFIG
ADJUST
Laptop
INPUTS BRIGHT
UNDO AUTO
SIZE DETAIL MENU FOXBOX Tx VGA OPTICAL
/CLEAR IMAGE /CONT
1 2 3 4 5 6 7 POWER
12V
RGB INPUT
AUDIO RS-232
COLOR ZOOM 1.0A MAX OVER FIBER ALARM
CAPTURE
FREEZE POSITION NEXT
CONFIG /RECALL /TINT /PAN
ANNOTATOR
ANNOTATION GRAPHICS PROCESSOR FOXBOX Tx VGA Tx Rx 1 2
3 R/ G/Y B/C 4 VID 5 VID HDSDI/ R/ G/ B/ MOUSE RS-232

1 /Y /Y 7 R-Y Y B-Y
I R-Y VID B-Y SDI O
RESET
N U DVI
T OUT
P RGB/R-Y,Y,B-Y
U 2 P LAN
PC
6 DVI-D U USB
RS-232
T
Annotator
T
H/HV V R-Y B-Y C H V S
RGB/R-Y,Y,B-Y
/C RGB/R-Y, Y, B-Y MTP KEYBOARD
100-240V .5A MAX
50/60Hz
12V
FOXBOX Rx VGA FOX USB EXTENDER Rx

0.2A MAX
ACTIVITY
HUB
P/2 DA2 PLUS LINK HOST 1
LOCAL MONITOR OUTPUT 3
ON 1 2 POWER
ON 12V DVI-D INPUT AUDIO RS-232 2 4
100-240V 0.3A
RS-232 FOX USB EXTENDER Rx
1 2 50/60 Hz
RGB INPUT INPUT LOOP THRU PASS THRU FOX 500 Tx POWER MODE RGB OUTPUT
OFF 12V AUDIO RS-232
ON
1.0A MAX OVER FIBER ALARM Tx Rx HUB
FOXBOX Tx DVI Plus Tx Rx 1 2 POWER
OPTICAL 12V
Tx Rx NA
FOX USB
1 2
1.0A MAX 1 3
1 2*
LINK
LINK
R G B AUDIO INPUTS Tx Rx FOXBOX Rx VGA Tx Rx 1 2
LINK
LINK
2
AUDIO
4
LINK
LINK
TEMP
OVER
RS-232
L R CONTROL ALARM
DVI
P/2 DA2 PLUS
OR CONFIG Tx Rx OPTICAL
EXTENDER Tx
AUDIO
LINK
LINK
TEMP
V
OVER
H/HV
RGB
RGB Tx Rx 1 2 * RETURN
OPTIONAL FOR
DATA FOXBOX Tx DVI Plus OPTICAL
CONFIG
FOX 500 Tx FOXBOX

FOXBOX Rx VGA
Touch
OPTICAL
ACTIVITY
LINK HOST
Tx DVI Plus POWER HOST

FOX USB EXTENDER Tx
Tx Rx
Screen
12V
0.8A MAX
LINK
LINK
OPTICAL
Keyboard
Document Camera POWER

USB
1 2
Prosecution
FOXBOX 4G Rx DVI Plus Tx Rx 1 2 Tx Rx
POWER HOST
12V
Touch Hub
0.8A MAX
Rx
LINK
LINK
Tx
AUDIO
LINK
LINK
TEMP
OVER
DVI
CONFIG
DVD/VCR Screen
OPTICAL
FOXBOX FOXBOX Rx DVI Plus OPTICAL

LINK
ACTIVITY
HOST
FOXBOX Tx VGA
Combo Rx DVI Plus FOX USB EXTENDER Tx Tx Rx
AUDIO
Cable Cubby 200
LINK
LINK
TEMP
OVER
RGB
Keyboard FOX USB EXTENDER Tx
CONFIG
Laptop POWER
12V
FOXBOX Tx VGA
RGB INPUT
AUDIO
OPTICAL
RS-232
FOXBOX Tx VGA Tx Rx 1 2
Clerk
FOXBOX Rx VGA FOX USB EXTENDER Rx
ACTIVITY
FOX 500 Tx
HUB
LINK HOST 1 3
2 4
FOX USB EXTENDER Rx
100-240V 0.3A POWER MODE RGB OUTPUT
RS-232 12V
50/60 Hz
RGB INPUT INPUT LOOP THRU PASS THRU FOX 500 Tx 1.0A MAX
ON AUDIO RS-232
OVER FIBER ALARM POWER Tx Rx HUB
12V
1 2 1.0A MAX 1 3
LINK
LINK
Tx Rx NA OPTICAL FOXBOX Rx VGA Tx Rx 1 2
R G B 1 2* 2 4
AUDIO INPUTS
LINK
LINK
RS-232 Tx Rx OPTICAL
L R CONTROL ALARM
OR
AUDIO
LINK
LINK
TEMP
OVER
RGB
PC
H/HV V RGB
CONFIG
Tx Rx 1 2 * RETURN
OPTIONAL FOR
DATA
FOXBOX Rx VGA
Touch
OPTICAL
Screen
POWER
Keyboard
VTC Camera
Tx Rx
FOXBOX
AUDIO
LINK
LINK
TEMP
OVER
DVI
Tx DVI Plus
CONFIG
Equipment Room
SMX 1616 FOX

REMOTE
FIBER OPTIC FIBER OPTIC

RS232/RS422
1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16
OUT
OUT IN
IN OUT
OUT IN
IN OUT
OUT IN
IN OUT
OUT IN
IN OUT
OUT IN
IN OUT
OUT IN
IN OUT
OUT IN
IN OUT
OUT IN
IN OUT
OUT IN
IN OUT
OUT IN
IN OUT
OUT IN
IN OUT
OUT IN
IN OUT
OUT IN
IN OUT
OUT IN
IN OUT
OUT IN
IN OUT
OUT IN
IN
RESET
ADDRESS
ADDRESS
LINK ACT
Tx Rx
FOXBOX
LAN
Tx Rx
AUDIO
LINK
LINK
TEMP
OVER
FIBER OPTIC
DVI
AUDIO
FIBER OPTIC
LINK
LINK
TEMP
OVER
RGB
Rx DVI Plus
CONFIG
CONFIG
FOXBOX Rx DVI Plus

9 10 11 12 16
OPTICAL
FOXBOX Tx VGA OPTICAL
1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 13 14 15
POWER
12V
1.0A MAX
MODE
ON
DVI-D OUTPUT AUDIO RS-232
OVER FIBER ALARM
POWER
12V
RGB INPUT OUT IN OUT IN OUT IN OUT IN OUT IN OUT IN OUT IN OUT IN OUT IN OUT IN OUT IN OUT IN OUT IN OUT IN OUT IN OUT IN
AUDIO RS-232
1 2

FOXBOX Tx VGA Tx Rx 1 2
FOXBOX Tx VGA ADDRESS
FIBER OPTIC FIBER OPTIC

1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16
VTC Codec OUT IN OUT IN OUT IN OUT IN OUT IN OUT IN OUT IN OUT IN OUT IN OUT IN OUT IN OUT IN OUT IN OUT IN OUT IN OUT IN
POWER MODE RGB OUTPUT

12V AUDIO RS-232
ON
1 2
FOXBOX Rx VGA Tx Rx 1 2 ADDRESS

Tx Rx 100-240V , 50-60Hz
1.3A MAX.
AUDIO
LINK
LINK
TEMP
OVER
RGB
FOXBOX Rx VGA
CONFIG
FOXBOX Rx VGA OPTICAL
FOX DA8 Plus
CONFIG
FOX DA SERIES
FIBER OPTIC DISTRIBUTION AMPLIFIER
100-240V 0.3A
50/60 Hz
FOX DA8 Plus
OPTICAL OUTPUTS
1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8
OUT IN OUT N/A OUT IN OUT N/A OUT IN OUT N/A OUT IN OUT N/A
(1)1x8
(2)1x4
(4)1x2
N15779
RS-232
A B C D Tx Rx
Tx Rx Tx Rx Tx Rx Tx Rx Tx Rx Tx Rx
AUDIO
AUDIO
AUDIO
AUDIO
AUDIO
AUDIO
LINK
LINK
LINK
LINK
LINK
LINK
LINK
LINK
LINK
LINK
LINK
LINK
TEMP
TEMP
TEMP
TEMP
TEMP
TEMP
OVER
OVER
OVER
OVER
OVER
OVER
DVI
DVI
DVI
DVI
DVI
DVI
CONFIG CONFIG CONFIG CONFIG CONFIG CONFIG
FOXBOX Rx DVI Plus OPTICAL FOXBOX Rx DVI Plus OPTICAL FOXBOX Rx DVI Plus OPTICAL FOXBOX Rx DVI Plus OPTICAL FOXBOX Rx DVI Plus OPTICAL FOXBOX Rx DVI Plus OPTICAL
POWER POWER POWER POWER POWER POWER

12V MODE DVI-D OUTPUT AUDIO RS-232 12V MODE DVI-D OUTPUT AUDIO RS-232 12V MODE DVI-D OUTPUT AUDIO RS-232 12V MODE DVI-D OUTPUT AUDIO RS-232 12V MODE DVI-D OUTPUT AUDIO RS-232 12V MODE DVI-D OUTPUT AUDIO RS-232
1.0A MAX ON OVER FIBER ALARM 1.0A MAX ON OVER FIBER ALARM 1.0A MAX ON OVER FIBER ALARM 1.0A MAX ON OVER FIBER ALARM 1.0A MAX ON OVER FIBER ALARM 1.0A MAX ON OVER FIBER ALARM
FOXBOX FOXBOX FOXBOX FOXBOX FOXBOX

1 2 1 2 1 2 1 2 1 2 1 2
FOXBOX
FOXBOX Rx DVI Plus Tx Rx 1 2 FOXBOX Rx DVI Plus Tx Rx 1 2 FOXBOX Rx DVI Plus Tx Rx 1 2 FOXBOX Rx DVI Plus Tx Rx 1 2 FOXBOX Rx DVI Plus Tx Rx 1 2 FOXBOX Rx DVI Plus Tx Rx 1 2
Rx DVI Plus Rx DVI Plus Rx DVI Plus Rx DVI Plus Rx DVI Plus Rx DVI Plus
(3 places) (2 places) (2 places) (8 places)
Projector
Flat Panel Display 3 Flat Panel Displays 2 Defense Monitors 2 Prosecution Monitors 8 Jury Monitors
Judge and Witness Gallery Main Projector Defense Prosecution Jury
www.extron.com 61
Performing Arts Center

Display Systems
Six 52‑inch (132 cm) LCD displays, two per concession area, are
used to display menus and prices. Twenty-eight 60‑inch (153 cm)
LCD displays are used in the lobby and box office areas. Six 22‑inch
(56 cm) and two 46‑inch (117 cm) HD-SDI monitors are located in
the control room. A 22‑inch HD-SDI LCD monitor is located at each
manned camera position.

Four mobile and two fixed camera positions include professional
grade cameras with HD-SDI outputs. Twenty wallplates, located at
various locations throughout the center, provide DVI video and stereo
audio inputs.
Overview
This Performing Arts Center is a large multi-purpose venue with over 3,000 Switching and Signal Management
seats. The venue is used for a variety of live performances, including concerts, The Extron FOX Matrix 3200 32x32 Fiber Optic Matrix Switcher
theatrical performances, awards ceremonies, and similar events. provides signal routing between sources and displays. Both multi-rate
SDI and DVI-D signals are routed through the matrix switcher.
Needs Assessment
Extron PowerCage FOX Rx DVI Plus Fiber Optic Receiver boards
Staffing During live performances, the control room will be
staffed with experienced personnel to operate a
convert each fiber optic signal from the FOX Matrix 3200 into an
professional video mixer and switcher, to control electrical DVI-D signal, for input into a media server. Each media
camera positioning for live broadcast feeds. Day- server transmits the video input signal or prerecorded content via two
to-day operation involves updating digital content DVI-D outputs.
for the media servers that feed the marquee
displays, digital signage, and concession menus.
Digital signage updates are performed by trained Signal Distribution and Extension
data entry personnel. Switching video sources A fiber optic infrastructure transports video signals to and from the
in the lobby areas must be simple, with multiple
equipment room over long distances and through narrow conduit.
points of control available.
Display Flat panel displays are installed throughout the Extron FOX 3G HD-SDI Fiber Optic Transceivers transmit the HD-SDI
Requirements public lobby areas. Displays are used for live output signals from the cameras to the equipment room, and the
broadcast of a performance, programmed video
control room. The FOX 3G HD-SDI supports up to 3G-SDI rates to
for digital signage, or for special events from video
sources connected to one of several wallplates. A deliver 1080p resolution with pixel-for-pixel performance.
professional-style control room will include multi-
rate SDI displays for monitoring and controlling Extron FOXBOX Tx DVI Plus Fiber Optic Transmitter boards are
video output from camera feeds. used to send high resolution video signals from various locations to
Sources and The auditorium includes six professional the equipment room.
Connectivity HD-SDI cameras. Two of the cameras are in
fixed positions mounted near the ceiling for Extron PowerCage FOX DVI Plus Fiber Optic Transmitter and
wide-angle views. Four mobile camera positions Receiver boards provide a compact, space-saving solution for
are located within the auditorium. Media servers
efficiently mounting fiber optic extenders within the equipment room.
provide playback of recorded video to monitors
throughout the auditorium. All video sources
provide 1080p video resolution.
Extron FOXBOX Rx DVI Plus Fiber Optic Receivers, discreetly
mounted behind the LCD displays, convert fiber optic signals into
Special Long cabling requirements between camera
electrical DVI video signals.
Requirements positions, lobby displays, wallplates, and
the equipment room, exceeding 300 meters
(1,000 feet), are easily fulfilled with the use of Video Signal Processing
fiber optic cabling. The theatre also has limited The Extron Quantum™ Elite Videowall Processing System is a high
conduit space, and there is a strong desire
to minimize the need for reconstruction in the performance multi-graphic videowall processor that outputs the
main auditorium. The office and lobby areas are required DVI-D video signals for the 3x4 videowall in the main lobby.
undergoing a more extensive renovation, including
installation of a new fiber optic infrastructure. The Extron DVC 501 SD converts the multi-rate SDI live broadcast
signals from the professional mixer and switcher to DVI-D video
signals, for compatibility with the various LCD displays.

Auditorium Lobby, Mezzanine, and Auditorium
Cameras L R
(2 places)
POWER
Wallplate FOXBOX
12V MODE DVI-D INPUT AUDIO RS-232
FOX 3G HD-SDI FOX 3G HD-SDI
Cameras
POWER OPTICAL POWER OPTICAL
Preview Monitors
12V MODE 12V MODE
0.3A MAX ON
0.3A MAX ON
1 2
(20 places)
Tx Rx 1 2
Tx DVI Plus
FOXBOX Tx DVI Plus
(4 places)
1 2 1 2
(4 places)
1 2 1 2
HD/SDI IN HD/SDI IN
Tx Rx BUFFERED OUTPUTS Tx Rx BUFFERED OUTPUTS
Tx Rx
AUDIO
LINK
LINK
TEMP
OVER
FOX 3G HD-SDI FOX 3G HD-SDI (20 places)
DVI
CONFIG
Equipment Room
INPUTS
1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16
17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 29 30 31 32
1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 CONTROL
CONFIG ENTER PRESET VIEW ESC
PowerCage 1600 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 29 30 31 32 PRIMARY
REDUNDANT
PowerCage 1600 PowerCage 1600 PowerCage OUTPUTS
Power Supply Power Supply
PowerCage
FOX Rx DVI
PowerCage
FOX Rx DVI
PowerCage
FOX 4G Rx DVI
FOX Rx DVI
PowerCage
FOX Rx DVI
PowerCage
FOX Rx DVI
PowerCage
FOX Rx DVI
POWER SUPPLY
Plus Plus Plus Plus Plus Plus
Rx
FOX MATRIX 3200

Rx
Rx
Rx
Rx
Rx
Rx
Tx
Tx
Tx
Tx
Tx
Tx
Tx
FIBER OPTIC DIGITAL MATRIX SWITCHER

RS-232 ALARM
1 2
RS-232 ALARM
RS-232 ALARM
RS-232 ALARM
RS-232 ALARM
RS-232 ALARM
RS-232 ALARM
1 2
1 2
1 2
1 2
1 2
1 2
OVER FIBER
REMOTE
OVER FIBER
OVER FIBER
OVER FIBER
Tx FIBER
OVER FIBER
OVER FIBER
RS-232
REMOTE
REMOTE
REMOTE
REMOTE
REMOTE
REMOTE
RS-232
RS-232
RS-232
RS-232
RS-232
RS-232
Rx
Tx Rx
Tx Rx
Tx Rx
Tx Rx
Tx Rx
Tx Rx
Tx Rx
Tx Rx
Tx Rx
Tx Rx
Tx Rx
Tx Rx
Tx Rx
OVER
FOX Matrix 3200

R
R
R
AUDIO
AUDIO
AUDIO
AUDIO
AUDIO
AUDIO
AUDIO
L
L
LISTED
OUTPUT
1T23
OUTPUT
OUTPUT
OUTPUT
OUTPUT
OUTPUT
OUTPUT
C US
DVI
100-240V 50/60Hz
DVI
DVI
DVI
DVI
DVI
DVI
5A MAX.
PowerCage
FOX Rx DVI Plus
(6 places)
Media Server
(6 places)
PowerCage PowerCage PowerCage

FOX Rx DVI FOX Rx DVI FOX Rx DVI
Plus Plus Plus
Rx
Rx
Rx
PowerCage
Tx
Tx
Tx
RS-232 ALARM
RS-232 ALARM
RS-232 ALARM
1 2
1 2
1 2
OVER FIBER
OVER FIBER
OVER FIBER
FOX Rx DVI
REMOTE
REMOTE
REMOTE
RS-232
RS-232
RS-232
Tx Rx
Tx Rx
Tx Rx
Tx Rx
Tx Rx
Tx Rx
Plus
R
R
AUDIO
AUDIO
AUDIO
L
L
(9 places) PowerCage PowerCage
OUTPUT
OUTPUT
OUTPUT
DVI
DVI
DVI
FOX Rx DVI FOX Rx DVI
POWER DATA
Media Server Plus Plus

(9 places) Media Server Media Server
QUANTUM ELITE
Quantum Elite
PowerCage PowerCage PowerCage
PowerCage PowerCage PowerCage PowerCage PowerCage PowerCage
FOX Tx DVI FOX Tx DVI FOX Tx DVI FOX Tx DVI FOX Tx DVI FOX Tx DVI
Plus Plus Plus Plus Plus Plus
FOX Tx DVI FOX Tx DVI FOX Tx DVI

Rx
Rx
Rx
Rx
Rx
Rx
Tx
Tx
Tx
Tx
Tx
Tx
Plus Plus Plus
RS-232 ALARM
RS-232 ALARM
RS-232 ALARM
RS-232 ALARM
RS-232 ALARM
RS-232 ALARM
1 2
1 2
1 2
1 2
1 2
1 2
OVER FIBER
OVER FIBER
OVER FIBER
OVER FIBER
OVER FIBER
OVER FIBER
REMOTE
REMOTE
REMOTE
REMOTE
REMOTE
REMOTE
RS-232
RS-232
RS-232
RS-232
RS-232
RS-232
Tx Rx
Tx Rx
Tx Rx
Tx Rx
Tx Rx
Tx Rx
Tx Rx
Tx Rx
Tx Rx
Tx Rx
Tx Rx
Tx Rx
(18 places)
R
R
AUDIO
AUDIO
AUDIO
AUDIO
AUDIO
AUDIO
PowerCage
L
L
FOX Tx DVI
INPUT
INPUT
INPUT
INPUT
INPUT
INPUT
DVI
DVI
DVI
DVI
DVI
DVI
Plus
(12 places)
Tx Rx Tx Rx Tx Rx Tx Rx Tx Rx
AUDIO
AUDIO
AUDIO
AUDIO
AUDIO
LINK
LINK
LINK
LINK
LINK
LINK
LINK
LINK
LINK
LINK
TEMP
TEMP
TEMP
TEMP
TEMP
OVER
OVER
OVER
OVER
OVER
DVI
DVI
DVI
DVI
DVI
CONFIG CONFIG CONFIG CONFIG CONFIG
FOXBOX Tx DVI Plus OPTICAL FOXBOX Tx DVI Plus OPTICAL FOXBOX Tx DVI Plus OPTICAL FOXBOX Tx DVI Plus OPTICAL FOXBOX Tx DVI Plus OPTICAL
POWER POWER POWER POWER POWER

12V DVI-D INPUT AUDIO RS-232 12V DVI-D INPUT AUDIO RS-232 12V DVI-D INPUT AUDIO RS-232 12V DVI-D INPUT AUDIO RS-232 12V DVI-D INPUT AUDIO RS-232
1.0A MAX OVER FIBER ALARM 1.0A MAX OVER FIBER ALARM 1.0A MAX OVER FIBER ALARM 1.0A MAX OVER FIBER ALARM 1.0A MAX OVER FIBER ALARM
FOXBOX Tx DVI Plus Tx Rx 1 2 FOXBOX Tx DVI Plus Tx Rx 1 2 FOXBOX Tx DVI Plus Tx Rx 1 2 FOXBOX Tx DVI Plus Tx Rx 1 2 FOXBOX Tx DVI Plus Tx Rx 1 2
FOXBOX FOXBOX FOXBOX FOXBOX FOXBOX

Rx DVI Plus Rx DVI Plus Rx DVI Plus Rx DVI Plus Rx DVI Plus
(18 places)
6 Monitors per Lobby

(18 places) Digital Marquee Box Office
Control Room
FOXBOX
Tx Rx
AUDIO
LINK
LINK
TEMP
OVER
DVI
CONFIG
Rx DVI Plus FOXBOX Tx DVI Plus OPTICAL
(12 places)
POWER
FOX 3G HD-SDI FOX 3G HD-SDI FOX 3G HD-SDI FOX 3G HD-SDI FOX 3G HD-SDI FOX 3G HD-SDI
POWER OPTICAL POWER OPTICAL POWER OPTICAL POWER OPTICAL POWER OPTICAL POWER OPTICAL
12V MODE 12V MODE 12V MODE 12V MODE 12V MODE 12V MODE
FOXBOX Tx DVI Plus Tx Rx 1 2 0.3A MAX 0.3A MAX 0.3A MAX 0.3A MAX 0.3A MAX 0.3A MAX
ON ON ON ON ON ON
1 2
1 2 1 2
1 2 1 2
1 2 1 2
1 2 1 2
1 2 1 2
1 2
HD/SDI IN HD/SDI IN HD/SDI IN HD/SDI IN HD/SDI IN HD/SDI IN
Tx Rx BUFFERED OUTPUTS Tx Rx BUFFERED OUTPUTS Tx Rx BUFFERED OUTPUTS Tx Rx BUFFERED OUTPUTS Tx Rx BUFFERED OUTPUTS Tx Rx BUFFERED OUTPUTS
FOX 3G HD-SDI FOX 3G HD-SDI FOX 3G HD-SDI FOX 3G HD-SDI FOX 3G HD-SDI FOX 3G HD-SDI
Camera Preview Camera Preview Camera Preview Camera Preview Camera Preview Camera Preview
Production Mixer/Switcher
FOXBOX
Tx DVI Plus
Videowall Main Lobby DVC 501 SD Tx Rx
AUDIO
LINK
LINK
TEMP
OVER
DVI
100-240V ~ 0.5A MAX CONFIG

INPUT OUTPUT
AUDIO
BUFFERED
SDI / HD-SDI LOOP-THROUGH DVI-D RGB / Y,R-Y,B-Y POWER
L R
RS-232 1.0A MAX OVER FIBER ALARM
50/60 Hz N/A Tx Rx
Tx Rx 1 2
FOXBOX Tx DVI Plus
Preview Live
HD-SDI Loop Out DVI
www.extron.com 63
Notes

Extron Fiber Optic Product Solutions
Extron manufactures a complete family of products designed for all digital technology to deliver perfect pixel-for-pixel transmission
the integration of AV systems over a fiber optic cable infrastructure. of high resolution images. Extron fiber optic products are available
Extron Fiber Optic Products include extenders for transmitting and for multimode fiber applications for sending and distributing fiber
receiving video, audio, and control signals or USB over fiber optic optic AV signals over short to medium distances within a building,
cabling. Formats and resolutions include HDMI, DVI, multi-rate and also for singlemode fiber applications for long haul transmission
SDI, RGB, HD/SD component, S-video, and composite signals. requirements between buildings, throughout a stadium, or between
For switching and distributing fiber optic signals, Extron offers a corporate or university campuses.
lineup of switchers, distribution amplifiers, and matrix switchers.
Extron fiber optic products are ideal for a wide range of application For continuous, optimum reliability in the most demanding
requirements, from simple, point-to-point signal transmission, to environments, a fiber optic AV system equipped by Extron offers
large-scale signal distribution with matrix switching capacity from several monitoring and diagnostic features with the capability to
8x8 up to 1000x1000, and beyond. trigger alerts in the event of a lost fiber link. Extron fiber optic matrix
switchers feature hot-swappable I/O boards and redundant power
All Extron Fiber Optic Products are engineered for reliability and supplies, plus dual AC power connectivity to ensure uninterrupted
exceptional high resolution image performance. They use Extron operation in mission-critical applications.
Matrix Switchers
Extenders
Distribution
Amplifiers and Switchers
Signal Processors Cables & Accessories
www.extron.com 65
Extenders
FOXBOX Tx HDMI
Fiber Optic Transmitter for HDMI, Audio, and RS-232
The Extron FOXBOX Tx HDMI is a fiber optic FEATURES:
transmitter for long haul transmission of HDCP- • Transmits HDMI video, stereo audio, and RS-
compliant HDMI video, stereo audio, and 232 control signals very long distances over fiber
RS-232 control signals over fiber optic cabling. optic cabling
Engineered for reliability and exceptional high • HDCP compliant
resolution image performance, it uses Extron • All digital technology provides pixel-for-pixel
all digital technology to deliver perfect pixel- performance with signals up to 1920x1200,
for-pixel transmission of HDMI computer- including HDTV 1080p/60
video images up to WUXGA 1920x1200 • Key Minder® continuously verifies HDCP
resolution, including HDTV 1080p/60. The compliance for quick, reliable switching
FOXBOX Tx HDMI also includes Key Minder®, • EDID Minder® automatically manages EDID
EDID Minder®, audio embedding, RS-232 communication between connected devices
control from multiple locations, and real-time • Buffered HDMI input loop-through
system monitoring. • Audio embedding with gain, attenuation, and
muting control
• Compatible with Extron FOX Matrix Switchers
- Create HDCP compliant signal distribution
systems up to 1000x1000 and larger
MODEL VERSION PART#

FOXBOX Tx HDMI MM Multimode - Transmitter. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 60-1174-11
FOXBOX Tx HDMI SM Singlemode - Transmitter. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 60-1174-12
FOXBOX Rx HDMI
Fiber Optic Receiver for HDMI, Audio, and RS-232
The Extron FOXBOX Rx HDMI is a high FEATURES:
performance fiber optic-to-HDMI receiver • Receives HDMI video, stereo audio, and RS-232
for the FOX Series transmitters. It accepts control signals very long distances over fiber
a fiber optic signal with HDCP-compliant optic cabling
HDMI, DVI, VGA, or HD component video, • HDCP compliant
stereo audio, and RS-232 control. Engineered • All digital technology provides pixel-for-pixel
for reliability and exceptional high resolution performance with signals up to 1920x1200,
image performance, the receiver uses Extron- including HDTV 1080p/60
exclusive all digital technology to distribute • Key Minder® continuously verifies HDCP
perfect pixel-for-pixel HDMI computer- compliance for quick, reliable switching
video images up to WUXGA 1920x1200 • HDMI audio de-embedding with analog stereo
resolution, including HDTV 1080p/60. The outputs
FOXBOX Rx HDMI also includes Key Minder®, • Compatible with Extron FOX Matrix Switchers
Auto Input Memory, internal test patterns, and - Create HDCP compliant signal distribution
real-time system monitoring. systems up to 1000x1000 and larger
MODEL VERSION PART#

FOXBOX Rx HDMI MM Multimode - Receiver.. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 60-1174-21
FOXBOX Rx HDMI SM Singlemode - Receiver. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 60-1174-22

Extenders
FOXBOX SR HDMI
Fiber Optic Scaling Receiver for HDMI, Audio, and RS-232
The Extron FOXBOX SR HDMI is a high FEATURES:
performance fiber optic-to-HDMI scaling • Accepts fiber optic signals from FOX Series
receiver for the FOX Series transmitters. transmitters and provides scaled HDMI video,
It accepts a fiber optic signal with HDCP- stereo audio, and RS-232 control signals
compliant HDMI, DVI, VGA, or HD component • High performance scaler provides selectable
video, stereo audio, and RS-232 control from output resolutions up to 1920x1200, including
a FOX Series transmitter, scaling the video HDTV 1080p/60
to the optimal output resolution. Engineered • HDCP compliant
for reliability and exceptional high resolution • Key Minder® continuously verifies HDCP
image performance, the FOXBOX SR HDMI compliance for quick, reliable switching
supports resolutions up to 1920x1200, • HDMI, DVI, RGB, and HD component video
including HDTV 1080p/60. It also provides upscaling and downscaling
many integrator-friendly features such as • HDMI audio de-embedding with analog stereo
Key Minder®, audio de-embedding, Auto outputs
Input Memory, and internal test patterns. In • Compatible with FOX Series transmitters
addition, the compact, low profile enclosure
of the FOXBOX SR HDMI allows for discreet
installation behind a flat-panel display.
MODEL VERSION PART#

FOXBOX SR HDMI MM Multimode - Receiver.. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 60-1187-21
FOXBOX SR HDMI SM Singlemode - Receiver. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 60-1187-22
Extron
Extron
FOXBOX Tx HDMI FOXBOX SR HDMI
Fiber Optic Transmitter Fiber Optic Scaling Receiver
12V RS-232 Tx Rx OUTPUTS
LINK
LINK
1.0 A MAX OVER FIBER ALARM POWER

12V HDMI AUDIO AUDIO
LINK
LINK
RS-232 REMOTE
Tx Rx 1 2
HDMI INPUT AUDIO INPUT OPTICAL
Blu-ray Player
1080p
Extron
FOX Matrix 3200
1-8
M
ANAHEIM, CA
9 - 16
S
17 - 24
M
25 - 32
Extron S
FOXBOX Tx DVI Plus

Tx Rx
AUDIO

LINK
LINK
TEMP
OVER
100-240V 50/60Hz 1.2A MAX.

DVI
Flat Panel Display

CONFIG
RESET
RS-232/RS-422
REDUNDANT

REMOTE
FOXBOX Tx DVI Plus
with Speakers
OPTICAL
TRI-LEVEL BI-LEVEL
POWER
1080p HDMI
LINK
PRIMARY

LAN
ACT
SWITCH
100-240V 50/60Hz 1.2A MAX.
REFERENCE
Extron
Laptop
FOXBOX SR HDMI
1280 x 800 Fiber Optic Scaling Receiver
Tx Rx OUTPUTS
POWER
LINK
LINK
RS-232 REMOTE
100-240V 0.3A
Extron
RS-232
50/60 Hz
RGB INPUT INPUT LOOP THRU PASS THRU FOX 500 Tx
Tx Rx NA OPTICAL
FOX 500 Tx
R G B AUDIO INPUTS 1 2*
LINK
LINK
RS-232
L R CONTROL ALARM
OR
Fiber Optic Transmitter H/HV V RGB Tx Rx 1 2 * RETURN

OPTIONAL FOR
DATA
Projector
720p HDMI
MPA 152 OUTPUT Extron
MPA 152
4/8
OHMS
Tx Rx
INPUTS L R
AUDIO
Power
LINK
LINK
TEMP
OVER
RGB/
POWER
YUV
CONFIG REMOTE
PC Extron FOXBOX Tx VGA/YUV OPTICAL

12V
0.6A MAX
L R L R VOL/MUTE
Amplifier
FOXBOX Tx VGA/YUV
10V 50mA
1440 x 900
POWER RGB/YUV INPUT
12V AUDIO RS-232
Fiber Optic Transmitter FOXBOX Tx VGA/YUV Tx Rx 1 2
Blu-ray Player Extron

1080i
SI 3
Surface-mount
Speakers
www.extron.com 67
Extenders
FOXBOX DVI Series

Fiber Optic Extenders for DVI, Audio, and RS-232
The Extron FOXBOX DVI Series Fiber Optic SERIES FEATURES:
Extenders are transmitter and receiver sets • Extends single link DVI-D, stereo audio, and
for long haul transmission of DVI, audio, and RS-232 control signals very long distances over
RS-232 control signals over a single fiber. a single fiber
Engineered for reliability and exceptional • EDID Emulation provides selectable resolutions
high resolution image performance, they use and refresh rates to ensure reliable operation
Extron-exclusive all digital technology to deliver • Daisy-chain capability
perfect pixel-for-pixel transmission of DVI • Real-time status LED indicators for
computer-video images as well as HDTV. The troubleshooting and monitoring
FOXBOX DVI Series also includes an EDID • Alarm notification for fiber link loss
emulation mode, Auto Input Memory, RS-232 • Auto Input Memory
control from multiple locations, internal test • 1" (2.5 cm) high, quarter rack width metal
patterns, and real-time system monitoring. enclosures
Compact, low profile enclosures allow for
discreet installation behind a flat-panel display,
and multiple receivers can be daisy-chained.
FOXBOX DVI Plus

Fiber Optic Extender for DVI, Audio, and RS-232
UNIQUE FEATURES:
• All digital technology provides pixel-for-pixel
performance with signals up to 1920x1200,
including HDTV 1080p/60
FOXBOX Tx DVI Plus Transmitter
MODEL VERSION PART#

FOXBOX Tx DVI Plus MM Multimode - Transmitter. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 60-1060-11
FOXBOX Rx DVI Plus MM Multimode - Receiver.. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 60-1060-21
FOXBOX Tx DVI Plus SM Singlemode - Transmitter. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 60-1060-12
FOXBOX Rx DVI Plus SM Singlemode - Receiver. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 60-1060-22
FOXBOX Rx DVI Plus Receiver
FOXBOX Tx DVI
UNIQUE FEATURES:
• All digital technology provides pixel-for-pixel Note: The FOXBOX DVI Plus transmitter is
performance with signals up to 1600x1200, compatible only with Fox Series HDMI and
including HDTV 1080p/60 DVI Plus receivers. FOXBOX Tx DVI MM - Transmitter
MODEL VERSION PART#

FOXBOX Tx DVI MM Multimode - Transmitter. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 60-935-11
FOXBOX Tx DVI SM Singlemode - Transmitter. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 60-935-12

Extenders
FOXBOX VGA Series

Fiber Optic Extenders for VGA, Audio, and RS-232
The Extron FOXBOX VGA Series Fiber Optic SERIES FEATURES:
Extenders are transmitter and receiver sets for • All digital technology provides pixel-for-pixel
long haul transmission of high resolution VGA performance with signals up to 1600x1200,
or HD component video, audio, and RS-232 including HDTV 1080p/60
control signals over a single fiber. Engineered • Daisy-chain capability
for reliability and exceptional high resolution • Real-time status LED indicators for
image performance, they use Extron-exclusive troubleshooting and monitoring
all digital technology to deliver perfect pixel- • Alarm notification for fiber link loss
for-pixel transmission of computer-video • Auto Input Memory
images up to UXGA (1600x1200) resolution. • RS-232 control at transmitter and receiver
The FOXBOX VGA Series also includes a • 1" (2.5 cm) high, quarter rack width metal
host of integrator-friendly features such as enclosures
image adjustments and calibration, Auto Input
Memory, RS-232 control, and real-time system
monitoring. Compact, low profile enclosures
allow for discreet installation behind a flat-panel
display, and multiple receivers can be daisy-
chained.
FOXBOX VGA
Fiber Optic Extender for VGA, Audio, and RS-232
UNIQUE FEATURES:
• Extends VGA, stereo audio, and RS-232
control signals very long distances over a single
fiber|Inputs: RGBHV, RGBS, RGsB, or RsGsBs on
15-pin HD; unbalanced stereo audio on 3.5 mm FOXBOX Tx VGA Transmitter
stereo mini jack - FOXBOX Tx VGA
MODEL VERSION PART#

FOXBOX Tx VGA MM Multimode - Transmitter. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 60-934-11
FOXBOX Rx VGA MM Multimode - Receiver.. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 60-934-21
FOXBOX Tx VGA SM Singlemode - Transmitter. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 60-934-12
FOXBOX Rx VGA SM Singlemode - Receiver. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 60-934-22
FOXBOX Rx VGA Receiver
FOXBOX Tx VGA/YUV
Fiber Optic Extender for VGA or HD Component Video, Audio, and RS-232
UNIQUE FEATURES:
• Extends VGA or HD component video, stereo
audio, and RS-232 control signals very long
distances over a single fiber|Inputs: RGBHV/RGBS
or YUV on 15-pin HD; unbalanced stereo audio FOXBOX Tx VGA/YUV Transmitter
on 3.5 mm stereo mini jack|Compatible with HD
component video, bi-level or tri-level sync
MODEL VERSION PART#

FOXBOX Tx VGA/YUV MM Multimode - Transmitter. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 60-1058-11
FOXBOX Tx VGA/YUV SM Singlemode - Transmitter. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 60-1058-12
www.extron.com 69
Extenders
FOX 3G HD-SDI
Fiber Optic Extender for Multi-Rate SDI
The Extron FOX 3G HD-SDI Fiber Optic FEATURES:
Extender enables long haul transmission of • Extends SDI, HD-SDI, and 3G-SDI signals very
multi-rate SDI video, with embedded audio and long distances over a single fiber
metadata, over a single fiber. Engineered for • Input equalization and reclocking on buffered
reliability and exceptional high resolution image outputs FOX 3G HD-SDI
performance, it uses the Extron exclusive, • Immunity to SDI and HD-SDI pathological signal
all digital technology to transmit multi-rate patterns - FOX 3G HD-SDI P SM
SDI signals up to 2.97 Gbps including SDI, • Dual buffered outputs
HD-SDI, and 3G-SDI. To optimize SDI signal • Daisy-chain capability
transmission to and from the FOX 3G HD-SDI, • Real-time status LED indicators for
input signals are automatically equalized troubleshooting and monitoring
and output signals are reclocked. The
FOX 3G HD-SDI can function as a transmitter
and a receiver in various user-configurable
modes. It is ideally suited for use in digital
signage, broadcast and production, rental and
staging, and medical applications.
MODEL VERSION PART#

FOX 3G HD-SDI MM Multimode, Qty. 1. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 60-900-01
FOX 3G HD-SDI SM Singlemode, Qty. 1. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 60-901-01
FOX 3G HD-SDI P SM Singlemode, Pathological Comp., Qty. 1.. . . . . . 60-1056-02
FOX AV
Fiber Optic Extender for Video, Audio, and RS-232
The Extron FOX AV Fiber Optic Extender is FEATURES:
a transmitter and receiver set for long haul • Extends standard definition video, stereo audio,
transmission of standard definition video, and RS-232 control signals very long distances
audio, and RS-232 control signals over a single over a single fiber
fiber. Engineered for reliability and exceptional • Accepts component video, S-video, and
video performance, it uses Extron-exclusive all composite video signals
digital technology to deliver perfect pixel-for- FOX Tx AV Transmitter
pixel transmission of video signals including performance
component video, S-video, and composite • Auto Input Format Detection
video. Designed specifically for AV systems, • Picture and audio adjustments
the FOX AV also includes a host of integrator- • Internal transcoding with selectable output
friendly features such as picture and audio format
adjustments, daisy-chain capability, auto input • Daisy-chain capability
format detection, rack-mount capability, and • Available as an 850 nm multimode model for
real-time system monitoring. moderate-range transmissions, and a 1310 nm
singlemode model for extreme distances up to
30 km (18.75 miles)
FOX Rx AV Receiver
• RS-232 control at transmitter and receiver
• Real-time status LED indicators for
troubleshooting and monitoring
MODEL VERSION PART#

FOX Tx AV MM Multimode - Transmitter. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 60-941-11
FOX Rx AV MM Multimode - Receiver.. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 60-941-21
FOX Tx AV SM Singlemode - Transmitter. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 60-941-12
FOX Rx AV SM Singlemode - Receiver. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 60-941-22

Extenders
FOX 500 DVI

The Extron FOX 500 DVI Fiber Optic Extender FEATURES:
is a transmitter and receiver set for long haul • Extends single link DVI-D, stereo audio, and
transmission of DVI, audio, and RS-232 control RS-232 control signals very long distances over
signals over a single fiber. Engineered for a single fiber
FOX 500 DVI Tx MM Transmitter
reliability and exceptional high resolution image • All digital technology provides pixel-for-pixel
performance, it uses the Extron-exclusive all performance with signals up to 1600x1200,
digital technology to deliver perfect pixel-for- including HDTV 1080p/60
pixel transmission of computer-video images • EDID Emulation provides selectable resolutions
up to UXGA 1600x1200 resolution, including and refresh rates to ensure reliable operation
HDTV 1080p/60. Designed specifically for AV • Buffered DVI input loop-through
systems, the FOX 500 DVI also includes a host • Available as an 850 nm multimode model for
of integrator-friendly features such as an EDID moderate-range transmissions, and a 1310 nm
emulation mode, buffered input loop-through, singlemode model for extreme distances up to FOX 500 DVI Rx MM Receiver
RS-232 control from multiple locations, 30 km (18.75 miles)
rack-mount capability, and real-time system • Real-time status LED indicators for
monitoring. troubleshooting and monitoring
• Alarm notification for fiber link loss
• Auto Input Memory
MODEL VERSION PART#

FOX 500 DVI Tx MM Multimode - Transmitter. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 60-859-11
FOX 500 DVI Rx MM Multimode - Receiver.. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 60-859-21
FOX 500 DVI Tx SM Singlemode - Transmitter. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 60-859-12
FOX 500 DVI Rx SM Singlemode - Receiver. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 60-859-22
FOX 500
Fiber Optic Extender for RGBHV, Audio, and RS-232
The Extron FOX 500 Fiber Optic Extender is FEATURES:
a transmitter and receiver set for long haul • Extends RGBHV, stereo audio, and RS-232
transmission of high resolution RGB, audio, control signals very long distances over a single
and RS-232 control signals over a single fiber
fiber. Engineered for reliability and exceptional • All digital technology provides pixel-for-pixel FOX 500 Transmitter
high resolution image performance, it uses performance with signals up to 1600x1200
the Extron exclusive all digital technology to • Buffered input loop-through
deliver perfect pixel-for-pixel transmission • Available as an 850 nm multimode model for
of computer-video images up to UXGA moderate-range transmissions and a 1310 nm
1600x1200 resolution. Designed specifically for singlemode model for extreme distances up to
AV systems, the FOX 500 also includes a host 30 km (18.75 miles)
of integrator-friendly features such as image • Real-time status LED indicators for
adjustments and calibration, dual RGB and troubleshooting and monitoring FOX 500 Receiver
audio outputs at the receiver, RS-232 control • Alarm notification for fiber link loss
from multiple locations, rack-mount capability, • Auto Input Memory
and real-time system monitoring.
MODEL VERSION PART#

FOX 500 Tx MM Multimode - Transmitter. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 60-746-11
FOX 500 Rx MM Multimode - Receiver.. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 60-746-21
FOX 500 Tx SM Singlemode - Transmitter. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 60-746-12
FOX 500 Rx SM Singlemode - Receiver. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 60-746-22
www.extron.com 71
Extenders
FOX USB Extender

Fiber Optic Extender for USB Peripherals
The Extron FOX USB Extender is a fiber FEATURES:
optic transmitter and receiver set capable of • Extends USB peripherals very long distances
sending USB signals extreme distances. The over fiber optic cabling
extender enables USB peripheral devices to be • Supports USB 2.0, 1.1, and 1.0 standards with
remotely located up to 10 km (6.25 miles) from data transfer rates up to 480 Mbps
the host computer. The transmitter features • Receiver features an integrated four-port hub FOX USB Extender Tx MM Transmitter
peripheral emulation to support uninterrupted with 5 Volts, 500 mA available on each port
communication between the host and the • Peripheral Emulation
USB device, ensuring USB port recognition • Real-time status LED indicators for
during system boot-up and in a switching troubleshooting and monitoring
environment. For simplified integration, the • Compatible with FOX Series matrix switchers
receiver features an active four-port hub that
supplies 5 Volts, 500 mA per port to power
attached devices. Also, port LED indicators
provide visual confirmation of system activity.
These features make the FOX USB Extender FOX USB Extender Rx MM Receiver
ideal for extending USB signals long distance
over fiber optic cabling.
MODEL VERSION PART#

FOX USB Extender Tx MM Multimode - Transmitter. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 60-1234-11
FOX USB Extender Rx MM Multimode - Receiver.. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 60-1234-21
FOX USB Extender Tx SM Singlemode - Transmitter. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 60-1234-12
FOX USB Extender Rx SM Singlemode - Receiver. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 60-1234-22
Extron Extron
FOX 500 Tx FOXBOX SR HDMI
Fiber Optic Transmitter Fiber Optic Scaling
100-240V 0.3A
RS-232
Receiver
50/60 Hz
RGB INPUT INPUT LOOP THRU PASS THRU FOX 500 Tx
Tx Rx OUTPUTS
POWER
LINK
LINK
RS-232 REMOTE
Tx Rx NA OPTICAL 1.0 A MAX ON L R OVER FIBER ALARM RS-232
R G B AUDIO INPUTS 1 2*
PC
LINK
LINK
RS-232
L R CONTROL ALARM OPTICAL FOXBOX SR HDMI OFF HDMI Tx Rx 1 2 Tx Rx
OR
H/HV V RGB Tx Rx 1 2 * RETURN
OPTIONAL FOR
DATA
Extron
Extron FOX Matrix 3200
FOX USB Extender Tx POWER HOST Tx Rx Modular Fiber Optic
Fiber Optic Extender Matrix Switcher
12V
0.8A MAX
LINK
LINK
for USB Peripherals OPTICAL OUT IN OUT IN OUT IN OUT IN OUT IN OUT IN OUT IN OUT IN
1-8
ANAHEIM, CA
Tx Rx HUB
POWER
9 - 16
12V
1.0A MAX 1 3
LINK
LINK

2 4
17 - 24
OPTICAL
Extron
25 - 32
100-240V 50/60Hz 1.2A MAX. PRIMARY POWER SUPPLY REDUNDANT POWER SUPPLY FOX USB Extender Rx
Fiber Optic Extender
RESET
RS-232/RS-422
REDUNDANT
REMOTE
for USB Peripherals

TRI-LEVEL BI-LEVEL
LINK
PRIMARY
LAN
Extron
ACT
SWITCH
100-240V 50/60Hz 1.2A MAX.
REFERENCE
FOXBOX Tx DVI Plus

Tx Rx
AUDIO
LINK
LINK
TEMP
OVER
DVI
Extron
CONFIG

12V RS-232
LINK
LINK
FOXBOX Tx DVI Plus 1.0 A MAX
FOXBOX Tx HDMI
OPTICAL OVER FIBER ALARM
POWER

12V DVI-D INPUT AUDIO RS-232 Tx Rx 1 2
1.0A MAX OVER FIBER ALARM HDMI INPUT AUDIO INPUT OPTICAL
PC PC
Extron Extron Tx Rx
FOX USB Extender Tx

POWER HOST
FOX USB Extender Tx

12V
0.8A MAX
LINK
LINK
HOST Tx Rx
POWER
Fiber Optic Extender Fiber Optic Extender

12V
0.8A MAX
LINK
LINK
OPTICAL
for USB Peripherals OPTICAL

for USB Peripherals

Extenders
PowerCage™ 1600
Modular Power Enclosure for Fiber Optic
and Twisted Pair Extenders
The Extron PowerCage™ 1600 is a rack-
mountable, 16-slot enclosure that supports a
wide range of Extron fiber optic and twisted
pair AV transmitter and receiver boards.
Providing an efficient way to power and
mount multiple transmitters and receivers,
the PowerCage 1600 simplifies integration
for large, rack-mounted systems. The
PowerCage 1600 also features an optional
redundant, hot-swappable power supply plus
thermal management to optimize reliability
in mission-critical environments where
continuous, 24/7 operation is essential. The
hot-swappable, modular design allows for
replacing or upgrading boards in the field at
• Optional redundant power supply
any time, without having to power down the
system. • Hot-swappable power supplies
• Exceptional thermal management
• PowerCage FOX Fiber Optic Extenders support
FEATURES: standard definition or high resolution video,
• Accommodates up to 16 single-slot or eight stereo audio, and RS-232 over fiber optic
double-slot multi-function boards cabling
• Space-saving design with a compact 3U, rack- • PowerCage MTP Twisted Pair Extenders support
mountable enclosure standard definition or high resolution video, and
• Modular, field-upgradeable, and hot-swappable audio or RS-232 over a single CAT 5-type cable
design
MODEL VERSION PART#

PowerCage 1600 Enclosure 3U, 16-Slot Frame. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 60-978-01
PowerCage 1600 Power Supply Kit Redundant Power Supply Option. . . . . . . . . . . 70-784-01
PowerCage™ FOX HDMI

Fiber Optic Extender for HDMI, Audio, and RS-232
The PowerCage™ FOX HDMI fiber optic FEATURES:
extender is a modular board-designed • Extends HDMI, stereo audio, and RS-232
transmitter and receiver set for the control signals very long distances over fiber
PowerCage 1600 enclosure that provides optic cabling
long haul transmission of HDCP-compliant • HDCP compliant
HDMI, stereo audio, and RS-232 control • All digital technology provides pixel-for-pixel
signals over fiber optic cabling. Engineered performance with signals up to 1920x1200,
for reliability and exceptional high resolution including HDTV 1080p/60
image performance, it uses Extron all digital • Key Minder® continuously verifies HDCP
technology to deliver pixel-perfect transmission compliance for quick, reliable switching
of HDMI computer-video images up to WUXGA • EDID Minder® automatically manages EDID
1920x1200 resolution, including HDTV communication between connected devices
PowerCage PowerCage
1080p/60. The PowerCage FOX HDMI also • Audio embedding with gain, attenuation, and FOX HDMI FOX HDMI
includes many integrator-friendly features such muting control Transmitter Receiver
as Key Minder®, EDID Minder®, Auto Input • HDMI audio de-embedding with analog stereo
Memory, audio embedding/de-embedding, outputs
audio gain and attenuation, internal test • HDCP Visual Confirmation provides a green
patterns, and real-time system monitoring. signal when encrypted content is sent to a non-
compliant display
MODEL VERSION PART#

PowerCage FOX Tx HDMI MM Multimode - Transmitter. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 70-889-11
PowerCage FOX Tx HDMI SM Singlemode - Transmitter. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 70-889-12
PowerCage FOX Rx HDMI MM Multimode - Receiver. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 70-889-21
PowerCage FOX Rx HDMI SM Singlemode - Receiver. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 70-889-22
www.extron.com 73
Extenders
PowerCage™ FOX DVI Plus

Fiber Optic Extender for DVI-D, Audio, and RS-232
The PowerCage™ FOX DVI Plus Fiber Optic FEATURES:
Extender is a modular board-designed • Extends single link DVI-D, stereo audio, and
transmitter and receiver set for the RS-232 control signals very long distances over
PowerCage 1600 enclosure that provides a single fiber
long haul transmission of DVI, audio, and • All digital technology provides pixel-for-pixel
RS-232 control signals over a single fiber. performance with signals up to 1920x1200,
Engineered for reliability and exceptional high including HDTV 1080p/60
resolution image performance, it uses Extron • Modular, field-upgradeable, and hot-swappable
exclusive all digital technology to deliver perfect boards designed for the PowerCage™ 1600
pixel-for-pixel transmission of DVI computer- enclosure
video images up to 1920x1200 resolution, • EDID Emulation provides selectable resolutions
including HDTV 1080p/60. The PowerCage and refresh rates to ensure reliable operation
PowerCage PowerCage
FOX DVI Plus also includes an EDID emulation • Daisy-chain capability
FOX DVI Plus FOX DVI Plus
mode, Auto Input Memory, RS-232 control • Alarm notification for fiber link loss Transmitter Receiver
from multiple locations, internal test patterns,
and real-time system monitoring. Multiple
receiver boards can be daisy-chained.
MODEL VERSION PART#

PowerCage FOX Tx DVI Plus MM Multimode - Transmitter. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 70-873-11
PowerCage FOX Rx DVI Plus MM Multimode - Receiver. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 70-873-21
PowerCage FOX Tx DVI Plus SM Singlemode - Transmitter. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 70-873-12
PowerCage FOX Rx DVI Plus SM Singlemode - Receiver. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 70-873-22
PowerCage™ FOX Tx DVI

The Extron PowerCage™ FOX Tx DVI Fiber FEATURES:
Optic Extender is a modular board-designed • Extends single link DVI-D, stereo audio, and
transmitter for the PowerCage 1600 enclosure, RS-232 control signals very long distances over
for long haul transmission of DVI, audio, and a single fiber
RS-232 control signals over a single fiber. • All digital technology provides pixel-for-pixel
Engineered for reliability and exceptional high performance with signals up to 1600x1200,
resolution image performance, it uses Extron- including HDTV 1080p/60
exclusive all digital technology to deliver perfect • Modular, field-upgradeable, and hot-swappable
pixel-for-pixel transmission of DVI computer- boards designed for the PowerCage 1600
video images up to UXGA 1600x1200 enclosure
resolution, including HDTV 1080p/60. The • EDID Emulation provides selectable resolutions
PowerCage FOX Tx DVI also includes EDID and refresh rates to ensure reliable operation
PowerCage
emulation, support of Auto Input Memory, • Daisy-chain capability FOX Tx DVI
RS-232 control from multiple locations, internal • Alarm notification for fiber link loss
test patterns, and real-time system monitoring.
Multiple receivers can be daisy-chained.
MODEL VERSION PART#

PowerCage FOX Tx DVI MM Multimode - Transmitter. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 70-700-11
PowerCage FOX Tx DVI SM Singlemode - Transmitter. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 70-700-12

Extenders
PowerCage™ FOX VGA

Fiber Optic Extender for VGA, Audio, and RS-232
The Extron PowerCage™ FOX VGA Fiber FEATURES:
Optic Extender is a modular board- • Extends VGA, stereo audio, and RS-232 control
designed transmitter and receiver set for the signals very long distances over a single fiber
PowerCage 1600, for long haul transmission • All digital technology provides pixel-for-pixel
of high resolution VGA, audio, and RS-232 performance with signals up to 1600x1200
control signals over a single fiber. Engineered • Modular, field-upgradeable, and hot-swappable
for reliability and exceptional high resolution boards designed for the PowerCage 1600
image performance, it uses Extron-exclusive enclosure
all digital technology to deliver perfect pixel- • Daisy-chain capability
for-pixel transmission of computer-video • Available as an 850 nm multimode model for
images up to UXGA 1600x1200 resolution. moderate-range transmissions, and a 1310 nm
Designed specifically for AV systems, the singlemode model for extreme distances up to
PowerCage PowerCage
PowerCage FOX VGA also includes a host 30 km (18.75 miles)
FOX Tx VGA FOX Rx VGA
of integrator-friendly features such as image • Alarm notification for fiber link loss Transmitter Receiver
adjustments and calibration, Auto Input • Auto Input Memory
Memory, RS-232 control from multiple • RS-232 control at transmitter and receiver
locations, internal test patterns, and real-time
system monitoring. Multiple receiver boards
can be daisy-chained.
MODEL VERSION PART#

PowerCage FOX Tx VGA MM Multimode - Transmitter. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 70-699-11
PowerCage FOX Rx VGA MM Multimode - Receiver. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 70-699-21
PowerCage FOX Tx VGA SM Singlemode - Transmitter. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 70-699-12
PowerCage FOX Rx VGA SM Singlemode - Receiver. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 70-699-22
PowerCage™ FOX 3G HD-SDI

Fiber Optic Extender for Multi-Rate SDI
The Extron PowerCage™ FOX 3G HD-SDI Fiber FEATURES:
Optic Extender is a modular board-designed • Extends SDI, HD-SDI, and 3G-SDI signals very
transceiver for the PowerCage 1600, and long distances over a single fiber
enables long haul transmission of multi-rate SDI • Modular, field-upgradeable, and hot-swappable
video, with embedded audio and metadata, boards designed for the PowerCage 1600
over a single fiber. Engineered for reliability and enclosure
exceptional high resolution image performance, • Input equalization and reclocking on buffered
it uses the Extron exclusive all digital outputs
technology to transmit multi-rate SDI signals • Dual buffered outputs
up to 2.97 Gbps including SDI, HD-SDI, and • Daisy-chain capability
3G-SDI. To optimize SDI signal transmission
to and from the PowerCage FOX 3G HD-SDI, PowerCage
input signals are automatically equalized, FOX 3G HD-SDI
and output signals are reclocked. The
PowerCage FOX 3G HD-SDI can function as
a transmitter and a receiver in various user-
configurable modes.
MODEL VERSION PART#

PowerCage FOX 3G HD-SDI MM Multimode - Transceiver.. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 70-701-01
PowerCage FOX 3G HD-SDI SM Singlemode - Transceiver. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 70-701-02
www.extron.com 75
Extenders
PowerCage™ FOX AV
Fiber Optic Extender for Video, Audio, and RS-232
The Extron PowerCage™ FOX AV Fiber FEATURES:
Optic Extender is a modular board- • Extends standard definition video, stereo audio,
designed transmitter and receiver set for the and RS-232 control signals very long distances
PowerCage 1600 enclosure, for long haul over a single fiber
transmission of standard definition video, • Accepts component video, S-video, and
audio, and RS-232 control signals over a single composite video signals
fiber. Engineered for reliability and exceptional • All digital technology provides pixel-for-pixel
video performance, it uses Extron-exclusive all performance
digital technology to deliver perfect pixel-for- • Modular, field-upgradeable, and hot-swappable
pixel transmission of video signals including boards designed for the PowerCage 1600
component video, S-video, and composite enclosure
video. Designed specifically for AV systems, • Auto Input Format Detection
PowerCage PowerCage
the PowerCage FOX AV also includes a host of • Picture and audio adjustments FOX Tx AV FOX Rx AV
integrator-friendly features such as picture and • Internal transcoding with selectable output Transmitter Receiver
audio adjustments, daisy-chain capability, Auto format
Input Format Detection, rack-mount capability, • Daisy-chain capability
and real-time system monitoring. • RS-232 control at transmitter and receiver
• Alarm notification for fiber link loss
MODEL VERSION PART#

PowerCage FOX Tx AV MM Multimode - Transmitter. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 70-702-11
PowerCage FOX Rx AV MM Multimode - Receiver. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 70-702-21
PowerCage FOX Tx AV SM Singlemode - Transmitter. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 70-702-12
PowerCage FOX Rx AV SM Singlemode - Receiver. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 70-702-22
DVI 104
DVI Fiber Optic Extender
The Extron DVI 104 Fiber Optic Extender is a FEATURES:
transmitter and receiver set that provides an • Transmits single link DVI-D signals over four
effective, economical solution for extending multimode fiber optic cables
single link DVI-D signals long distances over • Sends 1920x1200 and HDTV 1080p/60 signals
fiber optic cables. Engineered for reliability and up to 500 meters (1,640 feet)
exceptional high resolution image performance, DVI 104 Tx/Rx shown with 4LC MM cable.
4LC MM cable must be ordered separately.
it uses all digital technology to deliver perfect performance with signals up to 1920x1200,
pixel-for-pixel transmission of computer-video including HDTV 1080p/60
images up to 1920x1200 resolution, including • EDID Minder® automatically manages EDID
HDTV 1080p/60. The DVI 104 extends DVI-D communication between connected devices
signals over four multimode fiber optic cables • Transmitter can be self-powered by source signal
at lengths up to 500 meters (1,640 feet). • Transmitter and receiver detachable from cables
• Direct device connection
• Pre-terminated multimode fiber optic cables
available from Extron in various lengths from 10
meters (33 feet) to 300 meters (984 feet)
MODEL VERSION PART#

DVI 104 Tx/Rx Transmitter/Receiver Set. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 60-977-01
Fiber Optic Cables
4LC MM/10m 10 m (33'). . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 26-652-01
4LC MM/20m 20 m (66'). . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 26-652-02
4LC MM/30m 30 m (98'). . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 26-652-03
4LC MM/40m 40 m (131'). . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 26-652-04
4LC MM/50m 50 m (164'). . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 26-652-05
4LC MM/60m 60 m (197'). . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 26-652-06
4LC MM/70m 70 m (230'). . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 26-652-07
4LC MM/80m 80 m (263'). . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 26-652-08
4LC MM/90m 90 m (295'). . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 26-652-09
4LC MM/100m 100 m (328').. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 26-652-10
4LC MM/200m 200 m (656').. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 26-652-11
4LC MM/300m 300 m (984').. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 26-652-12

Extenders
FOX AEX 108

Eight Port Fiber Optic Audio Extractor
The Extron FOX AEX 108 is an eight-port, FEATURES:
fiber optic audio extractor for independent • Provides local audio outputs for up to eight
processing and routing of audio signals in FOX Series fiber optic signals, extracting analog
a fiber optic AV distribution system. Each stereo audio for independent processing and
port accepts signals from a FOX Series routing
transmitter, extracts the two-channel audio • Simultaneous audio extraction ports
signal to provide a balanced or unbalanced • Buffered input loop-throughs
analog stereo output, and re-transmits the • Balanced or unbalanced analog audio output
original signal to a FOX Series receiver. Output • Output reclocking
reclocking on the buffered pass-through • Compatible with Extron FOX Series matrix
maintains signal integrity, transmitting the fiber switchers for signal distribution systems up to
optic signal at original power levels. Featuring 1000x1000 and larger
high-speed, all digital signal transmission of • Compatible with Extron FOX Series distribution
pixel-perfect video, audio, and control signals amplifiers and switchers
over fiber optic cabling, the FOX AEX 108 is • Compatible with Extron FOX Series HDMI, DVI
compatible with FOX Series HDMI, DVI Plus, Plus, DVI, VGA, VGA/YUV, and AV transmitters
DVI, VGA, VGA/YUV, and AV transmitters and and receivers
receivers. • Rack-mountable 1U, half rack width metal
enclosure
• Internal universal power supply
MODEL VERSION PART#

FOX AEX 108 MM Multimode. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 60-1227-01
FOX AEX 108 SM Singlemode. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 60-1227-02
100-240V 1.3A, 50-60Hz

XPA 1002
Extron
CLASS 2 WIRING
LEVEL INPUTS REMOTE OUTPUT
1 2 1 2
1 2 10V 50 mA
XPA 1002
LIMITER/ 1 2
VOL/MUTE
PROTECT
SIGNAL
0 0
Power Amplifier STANDBY
Extron
SI 28
1 MIC/LINE INPUTS 1 2 I/O
2 3 RS-232(1)
DMP 64
O
Extron
U Tx Rx
LAN
Surface-mount
MIC T 1 2 3
POWER + 48 V P 4 5 6
4 5 6 U 3 4 RS-232(2) RESET
1 2 3
T
FOX AEX 108 Speakers

4 5 6 S
100-240V ~ 50/60 Hz
L AUDIO R L AUDIO R L AUDIO R L AUDIO R L AUDIO R L AUDIO R L AUDIO R L AUDIO R 12V Tx Rx
1.5A MAX
Eight Port Fiber + -

Tx Rx
+ - + -
Tx
+ -
Rx
+ -
Tx
+ -
Rx
+ -
Tx
+ -
Rx
+ -
Tx
+ -
Rx
+ -
Tx
+ -
Rx
+ -
Tx
+ -
Rx
+ -
Tx
+ -
Rx Extron
Optic Audio DMP 64
Digital Matrix
Extractor -- A 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8
Processor
HDMI LOOP THRU Display

AUDIO
50Hz DIGITAL
HDCP
HDMI
EDID MINDER
CONFIG AUDIO
Blu-ray Player
1 2
60Hz ANALOG FOXBOX Tx HDMI Tx Rx OUTPUTS

POWER
LINK
LINK
RS-232 REMOTE
POWER FOXBOX Tx HDMI Tx Rx 1.0 A MAX ON L R OVER FIBER ALARM RS-232
12V RS-232
LINK
LINK
Extron
HDMI AUDIO INPUT Tx Rx 1 2 OPTICAL
STANDBY/ON
PQLS HDMI OPEN/CLOSE FL OFF
Extron
USB
FOXBOX SR HDMI
FOXBOX Tx HDMI

1-8
A B C D E F G H
Fiber Optic Transmitter ANAHEIM, CA
Projector
9 - 16
A B C D E F G H
Laptop
17 - 24
Tx Rx
AUDIO
LINK
LINK
TEMP
OVER
DVI
CONFIG
Tx Rx OUTPUTS
A B C D E F G H POWER
LINK
LINK
RS-232 REMOTE
25 - 32
POWER
12V DVI-D INPUT AUDIO RS-232 OPTICAL FOXBOX SR HDMI OFF HDMI Tx Rx 1 2 Tx Rx
Extron
A B C D E F G H
FOXBOX SR HDMI
RESET
RS-232/RS-422
REDUNDANT
REMOTE
Extron Fiber Optic Scaling Receiver

TRI-LEVEL BI-LEVEL
FOXBOX Tx DVI Plus

LINK
PRIMARY
LAN
ACT
Fiber Optic Transmitter SWITCH

REFERENCE
100-240V 50/60Hz 1.2A MAX.
Extron
FOX Matrix 3200
Tx Rx
AUDIO
LINK
LINK
TEMP
OVER
RGB/
YUV
CONFIG
DVD Player
FOXBOX Tx VGA/YUV
RGB/YUV INPUT
OPTICAL
Display
POWER
12V AUDIO RS-232
FOXBOX Tx VGA/YUV Tx Rx 1 2
Tx Rx OUTPUTS
POWER
LINK
LINK
RS-232 REMOTE
Extron OPTICAL FOXBOX SR HDMI OFF HDMI Tx Rx 1 2 Tx Rx
FOXBOX Tx VGA/YUV Extron

Fiber Optic Transmitter FOXBOX SR HDMI
www.extron.com 77
Distribution Amplifiers
FOX DA8 Plus

Configurable Eight Output Fiber Optic Distribution Amplifier
The Extron FOX DA8 Plus is a configurable FEATURES:
eight-output fiber optic distribution amplifier • Configurable as a single 8-output distribution
for long haul transmission of AV and control amplifier, or as two 4-output or four 2-output
signals over fiber optic cabling. For maximum distribution amplifiers
flexibility, it can be configured as a 1x8 • Distributes and extends AV and control signals
distribution amplifier, or as two 1x4 or four 1x2 long distances over fiber optic cabling
distribution amplifiers. Featuring high-speed, • Compatible with Extron FOX Series extenders,
all digital signal transmission of pixel-perfect switchers, and matrix switchers
HDMI, DVI, RGB, HD component, S-video, • Eight active and individually isolated outputs
composite, multi-rate SDI, audio, and control • Selectable output reclocking
signals, the FOX DA8 Plus is compatible with • Output muting control
Extron FOX Series products. Output reclocking • Available as an 850 nm multimode model for
and active signal splitting maintain signal moderate-range transmissions, and a 1310 nm
integrity, transmitting output signals at original singlemode model for extreme distances up to
power levels. The FOX DA8 Plus includes 30 km (18.75 miles)
integrator-friendly features such as RS-232
control, rack-mount capability, and the ability to
mute one or more outputs.
MODEL VERSION PART#

FOX DA8 Plus MM Eight Output Fiber Optic DA - MM. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 60-1171-01
FOX DA8 Plus SM Eight Output Fiber Optic DA - SM. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 60-1171-02
FOX 500 DA6

Six Output Fiber Optic Transmitter for RGBHV, Audio, and RS-232
The Extron FOX 500 DA6 is a Six Output Fiber FEATURES:
Optic Transmitter for long haul transmission • Extends RGB computer-video, stereo audio, and
of high resolution RGB, audio, and RS-232 RS-232 control signals very long distances over
control signals over a single fiber. It provides a single fiber
six optical outputs for distribution to FOX 500, • Six active and individually isolated outputs
FOXBOX VGA, FOX 500 DVI, and FOXBOX DVI • All digital technology provides pixel-for-pixel
fiber optic receivers, each via a single fiber performance with signals up to 1600x1200
link. Engineered for reliability and exceptional • Buffered input loop-through
high resolution image performance, the • Available as an 850 nm multimode model for
FOX 500 DA6 uses Extron-exclusive all digital moderate-range transmissions, and a 1310 nm
technology to deliver perfect pixel-for-pixel singlemode model for extreme distances up to
transmission of computer-video images up to 30 km (18.75 miles)
UXGA 1600x1200 resolution. It also features • Auto Input Memory
active optical signal splitting so that original • Real-time status LED indicators for
transmitter power levels are maintained for all troubleshooting and monitoring
outputs.
MODEL VERSION PART#

FOX 500 DA6 MM Multimode.. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 60-863-01
FOX 500 DA6 SM Singlemode. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 60-863-02

Switchers
FOX SW8
Eight Input Fiber Optic Switcher
The Extron FOX SW8 is an eight input fiber FEATURES:
optic switcher for switching and long haul • Switches and extends fiber optic AV and RS-232
transmission of fiber optic AV and RS-232 control signals very long distances over fiber
control signals over fiber optic cabling. It optic cabling
provides eight optical inputs and one buffered • Compatible with all FOX Series transmitters and
optical output with active switching and receivers
reclocking for long-distance connectivity to • Optical inputs with loop-throughs
FOX Series fiber optic extenders, distribution • SpeedSwitch™ Technology provides exceptional
amplifiers, and matrix switchers. The switcher switching speed for HDCP-encrypted content
features very high-speed, all-digital switching • Selectable output reclocking
of HDMI, DVI, multi-rate SDI, RGBHV, HD • Output muting control
component video, S-video, composite • Available as an 850 nm multimode model for
video, audio, and control signals. Designed moderate-range transmissions, and a 1310 nm
specifically for AV systems, the FOX SW8 singlemode model for extreme distances up to
includes a host of integrator-friendly 30 km (18.75 miles)
features such as RS-232 control, output
mute, and input loop-through for seven of the
eight inputs.
MODEL VERSION PART#

FOX SW8 MM Multimode.. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 60-1172-01
FOX SW8 SM Singlemode. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 60-1172-02
Extron
SI 26X
Two-Way Ceiling
Extron Speakers
MPA 152
Power
W8
Amplifier
XS
FO
2
23
RS- UT
TP 4/8 S
OU OHM
8 IN
Rx
T Tx
OU R
7 IN L MO
TE
OP 2 RE
LO 15
MPA
TE
6 IN S
/MU
VOL A
50m
TS OP UT 10V
PU LO UT INP R
L IN 5 IN
TP
Extron
OU
TI CA L
OP OP
LO
4 IN R
OP WE R
LO PO
FOX SW8
3 IN
L
OP
LO X
12VA MA
2 IN 0.6
RM
OP
LO 32 R ALA
A RS-2FIBE
1 R
Fiber Optic
0.3 IN DIO
OVE
AU 2
0V Hz OP 1
0-24/60 LO Rx
10 50 T Tx
TPU
OU s
DV
I-D I Plu
DV
Rx
Switcher
OX
DE XB
MO FO
ER
POW
12V MAX
1.0A
Extron
FOXBOX Rx DVI Plus
Fiber Optic Receiver
I Tx
0 DV
X 50
FO
Projector
AL
232 U TIC
LINK
RS- THR
S OP 2*
PAS 1
NA
LINK
Rx
Tx
FOR
RM AL A
ALA ION DAT
232 OPTURN
RS- OL
NTR
* RET RM
S CO
32 R ALA
UT 2
RS-2FIBE
INP R
1
OVE
R
DIO Rx DIO 2
AU L
Tx AU 1
Rx
Tx
UT
I-D INP
DV- THRU DV
I-D I
DV
OP Tx
LO
Extron
OX
XB
FO
ER
POW
12V MAX
1.0A
Extron
0.3A UT
FOX 500 DVI Tx

0V z INP
-24 60H
100 50-
I-D
DV
0 Tx
FOXBOX Tx DVI
X 50
232 U
FO
TIC
AL
LINK
RS-THR
S OP 2*
PAS 1

NA
LINK
Rx
Tx
FOR
RM AL A
ALA ION DAT
232 OPTURN
RS- OL
NTR
*RET
CO
S 2
RU UT 1
TH INP R
OP DIO
Rx
LO AU
Tx
UT L
INP
UT
B INP
RG B
B
G RG
Extron
OR
Laptop (RGB)
0.3A R
0V z
-24 60H
100 50- V
FOX 500 Tx
H
with Audio
Fiber Optic
RM
32 R ALA
Laptop (DVI)
RS-2FIBE
R
OVE
DIO 2
AU 1
Transmitter
UT Rx
INP Tx
B
RG
with Audio
A
VG
Tx
OX
Local
XB
FO
ER
POW
12V MAX
1.0A
Extron Monitor
Local
Monitor FOXBOX Tx VGA
Fiber Optic Transmitter PC (DVI)
with Audio
PC (RGB)
with Audio
www.extron.com 79
Signal Processors
FOX 3G DVC
Fiber Optic Multi-Rate SDI to DVI and RGB / Component Converter
The Extron FOX 3G DVC receives fiber optic FEATURES:
SDI, HD-SDI, and 3G-SDI serial digital video • Accepts fiber optic multi-rate SDI signals up to
signals over a single fiber, converting them to 2.97 Gbps
DVI-D and analog RGB or component video. • Compatible with the FOX 3G HD-SDI fiber optic
It is compatible with the FOX 3G HD-SDI fiber extender and FOX Series distribution amplifiers,
optic extender and FOX Series distribution switchers, and matrix switchers
amplifiers, switchers, and matrix switchers. The • Simultaneous DVI-D and analog RGB/
FOX 3G DVC features extraction of embedded component video outputs
AES3 audio, RS-232 serial control, and a fiber • Daisy-chain capability
optic input loop-through that allows multiple • AES3 audio de-embedding
FOX 3G DVC and FOX 3G HD-SDI units to • Audio gain and attenuation control
be daisy-chained. It is ideal for applications • Internal test patterns for calibration and setup
including TV production, medical imaging, • Output muting control
military simulation, churches, and live events that
• RS-232 control port
require long distance transmission of SDI signals
from broadcast-type sources and interfacing
them with professional/consumer-level devices.
MODEL VERSION PART#

FOX 3G DVC MM Multimode.. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 60-1034-01
FOX 3G DVC SM Singlemode. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 60-1034-02
Extron
SI 26X
Two-Way Ceiling
Speakers
Extron
MPA 152
Mini Power
Amplifier
UT
TP 4/8
OU OH
MS
R 8 ohm Ceiling
Speakers
TE
L MO
2 RE
A 15 E
MP
in Parallel
UT
L/M
VO mA
50
UTS 10V
US
INP R
C D
TE EO
LIS
TT VID
17 DIO/ TUS
L
AUPARA
AP
R
WE
Audio
R
PO
L
V
12 MAX
3A
DIO
AU
2
UT
L -23
TP
RS
OU -Y
R-Y,B Rx
B / Y, Tx
N/A
RG
-D
DVI
T
PU
IN
DVI
LINK
-SDI
HD
I/
Extron
SD GH
OU
MAX -THR
5A OP RX
~ 0. ED
LO
0V ER
0-24 BU
FF TX
10
FOX 3G DVC
Fiber Optic Digital /60
Hz
Video Converter
50
Up to 30 km (18.75 miles) Fiber

on Singlemode Fiber
SM Model
Flat Panel Display
2
DI
-S
HDL UTS
TP
X 3G CA 1 OU
FO OPTI ED
ER
FF
BU
E
MOD
ON Rx
2 Tx
WER
1
PO
V
12 MAX IN
HD-SDI
DI
0.3A HD
/S
OPERATE
STATUS
RANGE
OVER
Extron A
FOX 3G HD-SDI
OPTION
B
OPTION
Fiber Optic
OPERATE
STATUS
RANGE
OVER
Transceiver HD-SDI Broadcast

Monitors
A
OPTION
B
OPTION
HD-SDI Camera

Matrix Switchers
FOX Matrix 3200

Modular Fiber Optic Matrix Switcher from 8x8 to 32x32
The Extron FOX Matrix 3200 is a high • SpeedSwitch™ Technology provides exceptional
performance, modular fiber optic matrix switching speed for HDCP-encrypted content
switcher for complete, end-to-end digital AV • Multimode and singlemode I/O boards available
signal transmission and routing over fiber • Multi-rate SDI I/O board available
optic cable. The matrix switcher is expandable • Modular, field-upgradeable and hot-swappable
from 8x8 up to 32x32, and is fully compatible design
with FOX Series transmitters and receivers. It • Dual redundant and hot-swappable power
features very high-speed, all-digital switching supplies
of pixel-perfect standard definition video, high • Advanced computer-aided diagnostics
resolution computer-video, HDMI, DVI, and • Status LED indicators for fiber link status
multi-rate SDI. Equipped with the integration- • Selectable output reclocking
friendly features common to Extron matrix
• QS-FPC™ - QuickSwitch Front Panel Controller
switchers, together with hot-swappable I/O with tri-color backlit buttons
boards and fan, real-time system monitoring,
• I/O grouping
and redundant, hot-swappable power supplies,
• Rooming
the FOX Matrix 3200 delivers highly reliable,
enterprise-wide switching of fiber optic AV and • Global presets
control signals for mission-critical environments. • Ethernet monitoring and control
• RS-232 and RS-422 control port
FEATURES:
• Front panel configuration port
• I/O sizes from 8x8 to 32x32
• Rack-mountable 4U, full rack width metal
• Compatible with all FOX Series transmitters and enclosure
receivers
MODEL VERSION PART#

FOX Matrix 3200 FOX Matrix 3200 Frame.. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 60-1257-01
FOX I/O 88 MM 8x8 I/O Board - Multimode. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 70-791-21
FOX I/O 88 SM 8x8 I/O Board - Singlemode. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 70-791-22
FOX I/O 88 HD-SDI 8x8 I/O Board - Multi-Rate SDI.. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 70-792-01
FOX 3G I/O 88 SM P 8x8 I/O Board - Singlemode, Path Comp. . . . . . . . . 70-965-02
FOX Matrix 7200

The Extron FOX Matrix 7200 is a high • SpeedSwitch™ Technology provides exceptional
performance, modular fiber optic matrix switching speed for HDCP-encrypted content
switcher for complete, end-to-end digital AV • Multimode and singlemode I/O boards available
signal transmission and routing over fiber • Multi-rate SDI I/O board available
optic cable. The matrix switcher is expandable • Modular, field-upgradeable and hot-swappable
from 8x8 up to 72x72, and is fully compatible design
with FOX Series transmitters and receivers. It • Dual redundant and hot-swappable power
features very high-speed, all digital switching supplies
of pixel-perfect standard definition video, high • Advanced computer-aided diagnostics
resolution computer-video, HDMI, DVI, and • Status LED indicators for fiber link status
multi-rate SDI. Equipped with the integration- • Selectable output reclocking
friendly features common to Extron matrix
• QS-FPC™ - QuickSwitch Front Panel Controller
switchers, together with hot-swappable I/O with tri-color backlit buttons
• I/O grouping
• Rooming
enterprise-wide switching of fiber optic AV and • Global presets
control signals for mission-critical environments. • Ethernet monitoring and control
• RS-232 and RS-422 control port
FEATURES:
• I/O sizes from 8x8 to 72x72
• Compatible with all FOX Series transmitters and enclosure
receivers
MODEL VERSION PART#

FOX Matrix 7200 FOX Matrix 7200 Frame.. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 60-1256-01
FOX I/O 88 MM 8x8 I/O Board - Multimode. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 70-791-21
FOX I/O 88 SM 8x8 I/O Board - Singlemode. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 70-791-22
FOX I/O 88 HD-SDI 8x8 I/O Board - Multi-Rate SDI.. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 70-792-01
FOX 3G I/O 88 SM P 8x8 I/O Board - Singlemode, Path Comp. . . . . . . . . 70-965-02
www.extron.com 81
Matrix Switchers
FOX Matrix 14400

The Extron FOX Matrix 14400 is a high FEATURES:
performance, modular fiber optic matrix • I/O sizes from 16x16 to 144x144
switcher for complete, end-to-end digital AV • Compatible with all FOX Series transmitters and
signal transmission and routing over fiber optic receivers
cable. The matrix switcher is expandable from • SpeedSwitch™ Technology provides exceptional
16x16 to 144x144, and is fully compatible switching speed for HDCP-encrypted content
with FOX Series transmitters and receivers. It • Multimode and singlemode I/O boards available
features very high-speed, all-digital switching • Modular, field-upgradeable and hot-swappable
of pixel-perfect standard definition video, high design
resolution computer-video, HDMI, DVI, and • Dual redundant and hot-swappable power
multi-rate SDI. Equipped with integration- supplies
friendly features common to Extron matrix • Advanced computer-aided diagnostics
switchers, together with hot-swappable I/O • Status LED indicators for fiber link status
• Selectable output reclocking
• Global presets
enterprise-wide switching of fiber optic • Rooming
AV and control signals for mission-critical • Ethernet monitoring and control
environments. • RS-232 and RS-422 control port
enclosure
MODEL VERSION PART#

FOX Matrix 14400 Frame FOX Matrix 14400 Frame. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 60-1255-01
FOX I/O 1616 MM 16x16 I/O Board - Multimode.. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 70-771-21
FOX I/O 1616 SM 16x16 I/O Board - Singlemode. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 70-771-22
FOX 3G I/O 1616 SM P 16x16 I/O Board - Singlemode, Path Comp.. . . . . 70-965-01
FOX I/O 1616 HD-SDI 16x16 I/O Board - Multi-Rate SDI. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 70-966-01
FOX Matrix 320x

The Extron FOX Matrix 320x is a high FEATURES:
performance, modular fiber optic matrix • I/O sizes from 16x16 to 320x320
switcher for complete, end-to-end digital AV • Compatible with all FOX Series transmitters and
signal transmission and routing over fiber optic receivers
cable. The matrix switcher is expandable from • SpeedSwitch™ Technology provides exceptional
16x16 up to 320x320 and is fully compatible switching speed for HDCP-encrypted content
with the FOX Series of fiber optic transmitters • Multimode and singlemode I/O boards available
and receivers. It features high-speed, all-digital • Modular, field-upgradeable and hot-swappable
switching of pixel-perfect standard definition design
video, high resolution computer-video, HDMI, • Four redundant and hot-swappable power
DVI, and multi-rate SDI. Equipped with supplies
integrator-friendly features common to Extron • Advanced computer-aided diagnostics
matrix switchers, together with hot-swappable • Status LED indicators for fiber link status
I/O boards and fan, real-time system
• Selectable output reclocking
monitoring, and redundant, hot-swappable
• Global presets
power supplies, the FOX Matrix 320x delivers
highly reliable, enterprise-wide switching of • Rooming
fiber optic AV and control for mission-critical • Ethernet monitoring and control
environments. • RS-232 and RS-422 control port
enclosure
MODEL VERSION PART#

FOX Matrix 320x FOX Matrix 320x Frame.. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 60-1082-01
FOX I/O 1616 MM 16x16 I/O Board - Multimode.. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 70-771-21
FOX I/O 1616 SM 16x16 I/O Board - Singlemode. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 70-771-22
FOX 3G I/O 1616 SM P 16x16 I/O Board - Singlemode, Path Comp.. . . . . 70-965-01
FOX I/O 1616 HD-SDI 16x16 I/O Board - Multi-Rate SDI. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 70-966-01

Matrix Switchers
FOX I/O 88 HD-SDI

8x8 Multi-Rate SDI I/O Board for the FOX Matrix 3200/7200
The Extron FOX I/O 88 HD-SDI board is FEATURES:
available as an option for the FOX Matrix 3200 • Supports multi-rate SDI at rates up to 2.97 Gbps
and FOX Matrix 7200 Modular Fiber Optic • Multi-rate SDI I/O board for the FOX Matrix 3200
Matrix Switchers, and enables connection to and FOX Matrix 7200
local multi-rate SDI-equipped devices. This • Passes embedded audio, ancillary ID and
board offers an 8x8 configuration for switching metadata information, and SD/HD-SDTI digital
and distribution of multi-rate SDI signals up video signals
to 2.97 Gbps, including SDI, HD-SDI, and • Input equalization and reclocking on buffered
3G-SDI. With this board, the FOX Matrix 3200 outputs
and FOX Matrix 7200 can be configured as • Hot-swappable
dedicated multi-rate SDI matrix switchers, or • Individually buffered inputs and outputs
with a combination of multi-rate SDI and fiber
optic matrix switching. The FOX I/O 88 HD-SDI
board is compliant with SMPTE 259M, 292M,
424M, and ITU digital video standards.
MODEL VERSION PART#

FOX I/O 88 HD-SDI 8x8 I/O Board - Multi-Rate SDI. . . . . . . . . . . . . . 70-792-01
FOX I/O 1616 HD-SDI

16x16 Multi-Rate SDI I/O Board for the FOX Matrix 14400/320x
The Extron FOX I/O 1616 HD-SDI FEATURES:
board is available as an option for the • Supports multi-rate SDI signals up to 2.97 Gbps
FOX Matrix 14400 and FOX Matrix 320x • Multi-rate SDI I/O board for the
Modular Fiber Optic Matrix Switchers, and FOX Matrix 14400 and FOX Matrix 320x
enables connection to local multi-rate SDI- • Passes embedded audio, ancillary ID and
equipped devices. This board offers a 16x16 metadata information, and SD/HD-SDTI digital
configuration for switching and distribution video signals
of multi-rate SDI signals up to 2.97 Gbps, • Immunity to SDI and HD-SDI pathological signal
including SDI, HD-SDI, and 3G-SDI. With patterns
this board, the FOX Matrix switchers can be • Hot-swappable
configured as dedicated multi-rate SDI matrix • Individually buffered inputs and outputs
switchers, or with a combination of multi- • Input equalization and reclocking on buffered
rate SDI and fiber optic matrix switching. The outputs
FOX I/O 1616 HD-SDI board is compliant with
SMPTE 259M, 292M, 424M, and ITU digital
video standards.
MODEL VERSION PART#

FOX I/O 1616 HD-SDI 16x16 I/O Board - Multi-Rate SDI. . . . . . . . . . . 70-966-01
www.extron.com 83
Matrix Switchers
FOX 3G I/O SM P
Fiber Optic Multi-Rate SDI I/O Board for the FOX Matrix Series
The Extron FOX 3G I/O SM P board is FEATURES: FOX 3G I/O 88 SM P
available as an option for the FOX Matrix Series • Fiber optic multi-rate SDI I/O board for the
modular fiber optic matrix switchers, and FOX Matrix Series
enables the transmission and distribution of • Supports multi-rate SDI at rates up to 2.97 Gbps
fiber optic multi-rate SDI signals, including FOX 3G I/O 1616 SM P
• Immunity to SDI and HD-SDI pathological signal
pathological signals, over singlemode fiber patterns
optic cabling. The board offers an 8x8 • Passes embedded audio, ancillary ID and
or 16x16 configuration for switching and metadata information, and SD/HD-SDTI digital
distribution of multi-rate SDI signals up to video signals
2.97 Gbps, including SDI, HD-SDI, and • Hot-swappable
3G-SDI. With the board, a FOX Matrix switcher • Individually buffered inputs and outputs
can be configured as a dedicated multi-rate • Real-time status LED indicators for monitoring
SDI matrix switcher, or with a combination of and troubleshooting
multi-rate SDI and fiber optic matrix switching • Available as a 1310 nm singlemode I/O board for
solutions. The FOX 3G I/O SM P board is extreme distances up to 30 km (18.75 miles)
compliant with SMPTE 259M, 292M, 424M,
RP 178 and RP 198 for pathological immunity,
and ITU digital video standards.
MODEL VERSION PART#

FOX 3G I/O 88 SM P 8x8 I/O Board - Singlemode, Path Comp. . . . . . 70-965-02
FOX 3G I/O 1616 SM P 16x16 I/O Board - Singlemode, Path Comp. . . 70-965-01
100-240V ~ 0.5A MAX

INPUT OUTPUT
AUDIO
SDI / HD-SDI
BUFFERED LOOP-THROUGH DVI-D RGB / Y,R-Y,B-Y
L R
LINK
RS-232
50/60 Hz TX RX N/A Tx Rx
FOX 3G HD-SDI P SM FOX 3G DVC

FOX 3G HD-SDI
POWER OPTICAL
12V MODE
0.3A MAX
1 2
FOX 3G HD-SDI P SM
HD/SDI IN
TX Rx BUFFERED OUTPUTS
FOX 3G HD-SDI
POWER OPTICAL
12V MODE
0.3A MAX
1 2
HD/SDI IN
1 - 16
17 - 32
33 - 48
49 - 64
FOX 3G HD-SDI A B C D E F G H I J K L M N O P
POWER OPTICAL
12V MODE
65 - 80
0.3A MAX
1 2 A B C D E F G H I J K L M N O P
HD/SDI IN
81 - 96
FOX 3G HD-SDI P SM FAN ASSIMBLY
OUT
A
IN OUT
B
IN OUT
C
IN OUT
D
IN OUT
E
IN OUT
F
IN OUT
G
IN OUT
H
IN OUT
I
IN OUT
J
IN OUT
K
IN OUT
L
IN OUT
M
IN OUT
N
IN OUT
O
IN OUT
P
IN
97 - 112
OUT
OUT IN
IN OUT
OUT IN
IN OUT
OUT IN
IN OUT
OUT IN
IN OUT
OUT IN
IN OUT
OUT IN OUT IN OUT IN OUT IN OUT IN OUT IN OUT IN OUT IN OUT IN OUT IN OUT IN 3G P BNC
113 - 128
MPEG IMX Digital BETACAM HDCAM HDCAM High Definition

Video System
POWER REMOTE EJECT

1(9P) 2(50P) RS-232C
A
A B
B C
C D
D E
E F
F G
G H
H II J
J K
K L
L M
M N
N O
O P
P
PHONES
OUT
OUT IN
IN OUT
OUT IN
IN OUT
OUT IN
IN OUT
OUT IN
IN OUT
OUT IN
IN OUT
OUT IN OUT IN OUT IN OUT IN OUT IN OUT IN OUT IN OUT IN OUT IN OUT IN OUT IN 3G P BNC
129 - 144

CONTROL
PUSH/ PLAYER SHUTT
LE VAR
A
A B
B C
C D
D E
E F
F G
G H
H II J
J K
K L
L M
M N
N O
O P
P
00:00:00:00
0 0 0 0 0
10 10 10 10 10 ALARM SE FO
R R WA
20 20 20 20 20 CHANNEL KEY INHI VE
30 30 30 30 30 CONDITION RE RD
DISPLAY
40 40 40 40 40
FULL/FINE RESET
50 50 50 50 50
LAN
REMOTE
1-4 L
EXT
REC/ PREROLL EDIT
REC 5-8 R STANDBY
ENTRY
MEMORY
REC REC
REW PLAY F FWD STOP
CH1 5 CH2 6 CH3 7 CH4 8 CUE PREVIEW AUTO EDIT REVIEW RS232/RS422 ACT LINK RESET
PB PB IN OUT
UNITY VARIABLE
REDUNDANT
100-240V
50/60Hz
1.2A MAX.
PRIMARY
100-240V
50/60Hz
1.2A MAX.
ANAHEIM, CA
NO
ITA
CIN
U
xT MMO
C
FOX Matrix 14400 NO

ITA
CIN
U
xT MMO
C
MPEG IMX Digital BETACAM HDCAM HDCAM High Definition

Video System
POWER REMOTE EJECT

1(9P) 2(50P) RS-232C
PHONES

CONTROL
LE VAR
PUSH/ PLAYER SHUTT
00:00:00:00
0 0 0 0 0
10 10 10 10 10 ALARM SE FO
R R WA
20 20 20 20 20 CHANNEL KEY INHI VE
30 30 30 30 30 CONDITION RE RD
DISPLAY
40 40 40 40 40
FULL/FINE RESET
50 50 50 50 50
1-4 L
EXT
REC/ PREROLL EDIT
REC 5-8 R STANDBY
ENTRY
MEMORY
REC REC
REW PLAY F FWD STOP
PB PB IN OUT
UNITY VARIABLE

Matrix Switchers
Extron Matrix 1K
Large-Scale Matrix Switcher Program
When it comes to large-scale matrix switching solutions for fiber 1000
optic, digital, or analog signal routing applications, Extron has you or Larger
covered. Through the Matrix 1K Program, you can create custom,
scalable matrix switchers in all common signal types with I/O sizes
up to 1000 x 1000 and beyond. Extron Matrix 1K switchers are 720
designed and engineered to your specific project requirements.
Matrix 1K digital and fiber optic matrix switchers start at 320x320,
while Matrix 1K analog matrix switchers start at 128x128. Regardless 576
of the size you need, Extron Matrix 1K switchers work with the same
ease of control and day in, day out reliability you’ve come to expect INPUTS
from Extron. 432
To begin the process of configuring your Extron Matrix 1K switcher,

contact your local Extron Customer Support Representative. An
Extron Applications Engineer will be assigned to your project and will 320 • • • • • • • •
• • • • • • • •
• • • • • • • •
work with you to ensure your complete satisfaction. • • • • • • • •
• • • • • • • •
• • • • • • • •
• • • • • • • •
• • • • • • • •
Matrix 1K Product Commissioning 320 432 576 720 1000

or Larger
Extron provides proactive, on-site product commissioning with every OUTPUTS
Matrix 1K purchase. Matrix 1K commissioning provides you with an
extra level of service, ensuring that the system you design and install
meets your expectations and those of your client.
Extron Matrix 1K
switchers offer very large
scale routing capability to
handle the largest, most
complex venues.
Extron Matrix 1K switchers can be custom designed in sizes from 144x144 up to 1000x1000 and beyond.
www.extron.com 85
Matrix Switchers
SMX System MultiMatrix

Digital and Analog Multi-Plane Modular Matrix Switcher
The SMX System MultiMatrix Series of digital FEATURES:
and analog multi-plane matrix switchers • Choice of 2U, 3U, 4U, or 5U frames
combines multiple, independent matrix • Choose from digital, analog, wideband, and
switchers in a truly modular, field-configurable stereo audio matrix boards
frame. Available in frame sizes from 2U to 5U, • Single point of control for up to 10 separate SMX 200 Frame
the SMX is capable of supporting up to 10 switching planes
separate matrix boards for independent or • Hot-swappable matrix board slots allow
simultaneous switching under a single point of installation and replacement of matrix boards in
control. It combines the proven reliability and three easy steps
high performance of Extron's CrossPoint®, • Field re-configurable and updateable
MAV Plus, HDXP Plus, and MVX Series matrix • 10 presets per switching plane
switchers with the efficiency of a modular • Redundant Power Supply - On select models
matrix switcher design. The SMX System is
ideal for medical imaging systems, conference
and training facilities, and other mid-sized
applications that require the switching of
different signal types in a cost-effective
upgradable solution.
MODEL VERSION PART#

SMX 200 Frame 2U/4-Slot. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 60-1021-01
SMX 200 Frame RPS 2U/4-Slot with Redundant Power Supply. . . . . . . . . 60-1021-11
SMX 300 Frame 3U/6-Slot. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 60-855-01
SMX 300 Frame RPS 3U/6-Slot with Redundant Power Supply. . . . . . . . . 60-855-11
SMX 400 Frame 4U/8-Slot. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 60-856-01
SMX FOX Series

FOX Fiber Optic Matrix Switcher Boards
SMX 88 FOX MM Board
The SMX FOX Fiber Optic Matrix Switcher FEATURES:
Boards offer high speed digital switching • Available in 8x8 and 16x16 I/O sizes
capability for audio, control, and video signals • Compatible with all FOX Series transmitters and
at high resolution rates and multiple formats receivers
SMX 88 FOX SM Board
with pixel-for-pixel throughput. This level • SpeedSwitch™ Technology provides exceptional
of performance assures compatibility from switching speed for HDCP-encrypted content
standard definition video to the highest source • Input fiber link detection
resolutions, including HDMI, DVI, multi-rate • Alarm notification for fiber link loss
SDI, and RGB computer-video. The boards are • Industry standard LC connectors provide reliable
hot-swappable and may be added at any time SMX 1616 FOX MM Board
physical connectivity and precise fiber core
in the field for easy and quick upgradeability alignment
or expansion. The SMX FOX fiber optic matrix • Available as an 850 nm multimode model for
switcher boards are available in two sizes, 8x8 moderate-range transmissions, and a 1310 nm
and 16x16, and in two versions for use with singlemode model for extreme distances up to
singlemode or multimode fiber. 30 km (18.75 miles) SMX 1616 FOX SM Board
MODEL VERSION PART#

SMX 88 FOX MM 8x8 Fiber Optic, Multimode; 1 slot. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 70-634-03
SMX 88 FOX SM 8x8 Fiber Optic, Singlemode; 1 slot. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 70-635-03
SMX 1616 FOX MM 16x16 Fiber Optic; Multimode; 2 slots. . . . . . . . . . . . . 70-634-04
SMX 1616 FOX SM 16x16 Fiber Optic; Singlemode; 2 slots. . . . . . . . . . . 70-635-04

Cables, Connectors and Accessories
Fiber Optic Termination Kit

Tool Kit for Field Termination of Fiber Optic Cables
The Extron Fiber Optic Termination Kit enables FEATURES:
quick, reliable termination of Extron multimode • Complete kit for terminating fiber optic cables
and singlemode fiber optic cables with high- • Compatible with all Extron Fiber Optic Quick LC
performance, pre-polished connectors. Each Connectors
kit includes all the tools and equipment needed • Precision fiber cleaver
to strip, prepare, cleave, and terminate a fiber • Visual Fault Locator included
optic cable using Extron Quick LC Fiber Optic • Durable canvas tool bag
Connectors. A VFL - Visual Fault Locator is
also included to provide a visual indication of
a properly terminated fiber optic connector. A
durable canvas bag offers a convenient way to
organize, transport, and protect the tools and
supplies provided in the termination kit.
MODEL VERSION PART#

Fiber Optic Termination Kit Termination Kit. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 100-656-01
Quick LC Fiber Optic Connectors

Connectors for Field Termination of Fiber Optic Cables
Extron Quick LC Fiber Optic Connectors are FEATURES:
factory pre-polished, field-installable connectors • Pre-polished, field-installable connectors
for fast, reliable termination of Extron • Compatible with Extron Fiber Optic
multimode and singlemode fiber optic cable. Termination Kit
The precision design and pre-cleaved fiber stub • Re-usable up to two times
with index-matching gel ensure optimum fiber • Wedge clip with visual indicator
alignment and a reliable low-loss connection. • High-performance, low-loss fiber optic
Each connector includes strain relief boots for connectors
terminating Extron Fiber Optic Cable as well
as other standard fiber optic cable sizes that
may exist in a fiber plant. A pre-installed wedge
clip features a visual indicator of a successful
termination when used with a VFL - Visual Fault
Locator. Quick LC Connectors are available as
multimode and singlemode versions.
MODEL VERSION PART#

QLC SM/10 Singlemode, qty. 10.. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 101-017-01
QLC MM/10 Multimode, qty. 10. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 101-018-01
www.extron.com 87
Fiber Optic Test Set

Complete Kit to Measure Optical Power and Loss in Fiber Optic Cable
The Extron Fiber Optic Test Set includes all FEATURES:
the tools needed to measure optical power • Complete kit for testing power and loss in
and loss in multimode and singlemode fiber multimode and singlemode fiber optic AV
optic AV equipment and fiber optic cabling. systems
The FLS 101 light source includes both a • Fiber optic light source includes both multimode
multimode LED output that operates at 850 nm and singlemode outputs
and 1300 nm, and a singlemode laser output • Fiber optic power meter accepts multimode or
that operates at 1310 nm and 1550 nm. The singlemode fiber
FPM 101 power meter is compatible with both • Power measurements in dBm or watts and loss
multimode and singlemode fiber and features measurements in dB
an easy-to-read LCD display for measuring • Automatic wavelength identification with Wave ID
optical power in dBm or watts and insertion enables the power meter to automatically detect
loss in dB. The test set also includes all the and set wavelengths to simplify setup
cables and adapters needed for testing fiber • Handheld and battery-powered
optic AV systems and a durable padded • Durable padded carrying case
carrying case to organize and protect the test
equipment with room for the power meter, light
source, cables, and adapters.
MODEL VERSION PART#

Fiber Optic Test Set Multimode and Singlemode Kit. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 70-962-01
Fiber Optic Test Set

Mandrel
Multimode Fiber under Test
LC to LC LC to LC
Coupling Coupling
9V
850nm 1300nm 1310nm 1550nm
FLS 101
FIBER LIGHT SOURCE WAVE ID
Set
850nm 1310nm
1300nm 1550nm dB
Ref
dBm
Extron
MM SM
Extron FPM 101

Tone
FLS 101
FIBER POWER METER
POWER
Extron
Fiber Optic FPM 101 POWER
Singlemode Fiber under Test
LC to LC LC to LC
Coupling Coupling
9V
850nm 1300nm 1310nm 1550nm
FLS 101
FIBER LIGHT SOURCE WAVE ID
Set
850nm 1310nm
1300nm 1550nm dB
Ref
dBm
Extron
MM SM
Extron FPM 101
FLS 101
Tone
FIBER POWER METER
POWER
Extron
Fiber Optic FPM 101 POWER

OM4 MM P
Bend-Insensitive Laser-Optimized Duplex Multimode Fiber - Plenum
Extron OM4 MM P multimode fiber is available FEATURES:
as a plenum rated bulk duplex fiber optic cable • Laser-optimized OM4 multimode fiber
on a 2 km roll. Ideal for moderate to long • Bend-insensitive
distances up to 2 km, Extron laser-optimized • OFNP plenum-rated jacket
multimode fiber provides superior bandwidth • Durable duplex zip-cord cable construction
and ensures pixel-perfect transmission of high • Standard 2 mm duplex fiber optic cable for easy
resolution video, audio, and control signals. termination
The OM4 MM P is also a bend-insensitive
fiber optic cable featuring a tight bend
radius to minimize bending loss and simplify
installation. Laser-optimized, OM4 performance
ensures an AV fiber optic cable infrastructure
that supports the highest resolutions.
MODEL VERSION PART#

OM4 MM P/2K Plenum 2 km (6,562') Spool.. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 22-225-02
SM P
Bend-Insensitive Duplex Singlemode Fiber - Plenum
Extron SM P singlemode fiber is available as FEATURES:
a plenum rated bulk duplex fiber cable on • Bend-insensitive singlemode fiber
a 2 km roll. The SM P is a bend-insensitive • OFNP plenum-rated jacket
fiber featuring a tight bend radius to minimize • Durable duplex zip-cord cable construction
bending loss and simplify installation. • Standard 2 mm duplex fiber optic cable for easy
Singlemode fiber's low-loss provides extreme termination
performance to transmit AV signals over very
long distances up to 30 km or 18.75 miles.
MODEL VERSION PART#

SM P/2K Plenum 2 km (6,562') Spool.. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 22-223-02
www.extron.com 89
2LC OM4 MM P
LC to LC Laser-Optimized Multimode Fiber Optic Cable Assemblies - Plenum
Extron 2LC OM4 MM P multimode fiber optic FEATURES:
duplex cable assemblies are available in various • Laser-optimized OM4 multimode fiber
lengths from 1 meter to 60 meters. Ideal for • Bend-insensitive
moderate to long distances up to 2 km, Extron • OFNP plenum-rated jacket
laser-optimized multimode fiber provides • Durable duplex zip-cord cable construction
superior bandwidth and ensures pixel-perfect • Terminated with industry standard LC
transmission of high-resolution, video, audio, connectors
and control signals. The 2LC OM4 MM P • Available in lengths from 1 meter (3.3 feet) to
is also a bend-insensitive fiber optic cable 60 meters (197 feet)
featuring a tight bend radius to minimize
bending loss and simplify installation. Laser-
optimized, OM4 performance ensures an AV
fiber optic cable infrastructure that supports the
highest resolutions.
MODEL VERSION PART#

2LC OM4 MM P/1 1 m (3.3'). . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 26-671-01
2LC OM4 MM P/2 2 m (6.6'). . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 26-671-02
2LC OM4 MM P/3 3 m (9.8'). . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 26-671-03
2LC OM4 MM P/5 5 m (16.4').. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 26-671-05
2LC OM4 MM P/10 10 m (32.8'). . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 26-671-10
2LC OM4 MM P/15 15 m (49.2'). . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 26-671-15
2LC OM4 MM P/20 20 m (65.6'). . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 26-671-20
2LC OM4 MM P/30 30 m (98.4'). . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 26-671-30
2LC OM4 MM P/40 40 m (131'). . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 26-671-40
2LC OM4 MM P/50 50 m (164'). . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 26-671-50
2LC OM4 MM P/60 60 m (197'). . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 26-671-60
2LC SM P
LC to LC Bend-Insensitive Singlemode Fiber Optic Cable Assemblies - Plenum
Extron 2LC SM P bend-insensitive singlemode FEATURES:
fiber optic cable assemblies are available in • Bend-insensitive singlemode fiber
various lengths from 1 meter to 60 meters. • OFNP plenum-rated jacket
Bend-insensitive fiber features a tight bend • Durable duplex zip-cord cable construction
radius to minimize bending loss and simplify • Terminated with industry standard LC
installation. Singlemode fiber's low-loss connectors
provides extreme performance to transmit AV • Available in lengths from 1 meter (3.3 feet) to
signals over very long distances up to 30 km or 60 meters (197 feet)
18.75 miles.
MODEL VERSION PART#

2LC SM P/1 1 m (3.3'). . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 26-670-01
2LC SM P/2 2 m (6.6'). . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 26-670-02
2LC SM P/3 3 m (9.8'). . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 26-670-03
2LC SM P/5 5 m (16.4').. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 26-670-05
2LC SM P/10 10 m (32.8'). . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 26-670-10
2LC SM P/15 15 m (49.2'). . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 26-670-15
2LC SM P/20 20 m (65.6'). . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 26-670-20
2LC SM P/30 30 m (98.4'). . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 26-670-30
2LC SM P/40 40 m (131'). . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 26-670-40
2LC SM P/50 50 m (164'). . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 26-670-50
2LC SM P/60 60 m (197'). . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 26-670-60

Standards for Fiber Optic Cables
Several standards apply to fiber optic cables, including flame ratings, performance ratings, and design
standards. Selecting the appropriate fiber optic cable for the application is essential, whether for indoor
or outdoor use, and whether the cable will be installed in risers or plenums. Performance of fiber optic
cables is also an important consideration to ensure compatibility with current fiber optic AV products,
as well as ample bandwidth capability for future system needs.
Fiber Optic Glossary

In use throughout this Guide is the language of the fiber optic world. This lexicon of words, phrases,
acronyms, and abbreviations appropriate to fiber optic technologies, standards, practices, and the
products necessary for fiber optic AV integration is defined in the following Glossary of Terms.
Frequently Asked Questions

Find answers to all of the common questions about fiber optic technology, applications using fiber
optics, system design considerations, Extron fiber optic products, and system installation.
www.extron.com 91
Fiber optic cables are covered by multiple codes and standards including flame ratings, performance ratings, and design standards. Safety
codes and standards specify where cables may be installed, such as vertical runs and air handling spaces, based on the jacket material
and flame rating. Cables are flame-rated for use in risers, plenums, and general use. Performance standards address and define technical
specifications, rules, and guidelines to promote compatibility of components and systems in telecommunications networks. Cable design
and construction codes and standards address requirements for indoor, outdoor, and combination indoor/outdoor applications.
Flame Ratings for Fiber Optic Cables

Cables installed within commercial or residential buildings are Table 1.
required to meet minimum flame ratings as established by National Electrical Code Fire Ratings for Fiber Optic Cables
the National Fire Protection Association — NFPA. The NFPA
NEC Test
standards include National Electrical Code® — NEC Article 770 Description
Designation Method
that mandates how fiber optic cables may be installed in
plenum, riser, and general purpose applications. State and OFNP OFNP is Optical Fiber Non-conductive NFPA 262
Plenum. OFNP are all-dielectric fiber CSA FT6
local jurisdictions may require compliance with additional, more optic cables that are certified for use
restrictive standards. Underwriter’s Laboratories® — UL, and in plenum applications. OFNP cables
can also be used in riser and general
the Canadian Standards Association — CSA have developed
purpose applications.
test methods for certification to applicable standards.
OFCP OFCP is Optical Fiber Conductive NFPA 262
Plenum. OFCP are fiber optic cables CSA FT6
Plenum applications refer to cable installations in any space that contain at least one electrically
conductive component such as a
used as part of an air handling system, including heating/
strength member or vapor barrier.
air conditioning ducts and air returns. Exposed cables not OFCP cables are certified for use in
installed in conduit are required to have a certain minimum fire- plenum applications. OFCP cables
can also be used in riser and general
resistant and smoke-resistant rating. The term riser refers to purpose applications.
a vertical pathway or the space between floors of a multistory
OFNR OFNR is Optical Fiber Non-conductive UL-1666
building. Cables within risers must also be rated for fire and Riser. OFNR are all-dielectric fiber CSA-FT4
smoke resistance, but the ratings are less stringent than optic cables that are certified for use
in riser applications. OFNR cables
plenum applications. General purpose applications are cables can also be used in general purpose
installed on a single floor and cannot be used in riser or plenum applications.
applications. NEC‑established ratings are shown in Table 1. OFCR OFCR is Optical Fiber Conductive UL-1666
Riser. OFCR are fiber optic cables CSA FT4
that contain at least one electrically
conductive component such as a
strength member or vapor barrier.
OFCR cables are certified for use
in riser applications. OFCR cables
can also be used in general purpose
applications.
OFNG OFNG is Optical Fiber Non-conductive UL-1581
General Purpose. OFNG are all- CSA FT4
dielectric fiber optic cables that are
for general purpose use. OFNG fibers
are not rated for riser or plenum
applications.
OFCG OFCG is Optical Fiber Conductive UL-1581

General Purpose. OFCG are fiber CSA FT4
optic cables that contain at least one
electrically conductive component
such as a strength member or vapor
barrier. OFCG cables are certified for
general purpose use and are not rated
for riser or plenum applications.

Fiber Performance Standards
Performance standards have been defined by multiple organizations, is recommended for new installations of multimode fiber due to
including: continually increasing data rates.
• ISO - International Organization for Standardization Singlemode Fiber Standards

• IEC - International Electrotechnical Commission OS1 and OS2 are standard designations that identify singlemode
• TIA - Telecommunications Industry Association fibers. ISO/IEC 11801 specifies performance requirements for OS1,
• ITU - International Telecommunication Union and ISO/IEC 24702 specifies for OS2, as listed in Table 3.
Multimode Fiber Standards OS1 is the original type of singlemode fiber, and is the most
Multimode fibers are categorized by their bandwidth performance commonly installed type for long distance applications. In
as it relates to modal dispersion. Most of the performance anticipation of future higher bandwidth needs, it also exists as
specifications have been reconciled to the ISO/IEC specifications. dark fiber in many facilities. OS1 continues to be popular for new
ISO/IEC 11801 identifies four categories for multimode fibers — singlemode installations.
OM1, OM2, OM3, and OM4 — based on performance criteria as
shown in Table 2. OS2 fiber is a newer singlemode fiber type that is specified for
transmission at the 1383 nm wavelength. It is designed for use
OM1 and OM2 fibers are legacy standards for multimode fiber with CWDM systems due to low attenuation at this wavelength.
that are used on 10 Mbps and 100 Mbps networks. These fiber OS2 fiber is defined as an 'outdoor' cable, but can also be used
types are designed for use with LED light sources, but can also indoors. ISO standards only define attenuation for OS2 in loose
be used with VCSELs. OM1 and OM2 multimode fibers are not tube cables that are common in outdoor applications, OS2 fiber
recommended for new applications. attenuation tends to be higher in tight-buffered cables used for
indoor applications.
OM3 is the first generation of laser-optimized multimode fiber. It
is used for networks operating up to 10 Gbps with VCSEL light OS1 and OS2 fiber have similar performance capabilities for
sources, and is currently the most popular multimode fiber for new most installations. However, OS1 fiber has higher attenuation at
installations. wavelengths near 1383 nm, and may not be suitable for CWDM
applications. OS2 fiber is designed for transmission of all CWDM
Designed for high speed data networks, OM4 is the newest standard wavelengths. Due to the large installed base of OS1 fiber, many
for laser-optimized multimode fiber. It enables the transmission of CWDM applications avoid using wavelengths around 1383 nm. The
higher data rates over longer distances than OM3‑type fiber. OM4 differences between OS1 and OS2 are summarized in Table 4.
Table 2.
ISO/IEC 11801 Optical Fiber Categories
Max Attenuation Overfill Launch Effective Mode Equivalent or
Core Diameter (dB/km) Bandwidth (MHz-km) Bandwidth (MHz-km) Related Performance
Category (µm) 850 / 1310 nm 850 / 1310 nm @ 850 nm Standards
TIA 492-AAAA
OM1 62.5 3.5 / 1.5 200 / 500 N/A IEC 60793-2-10, A1b
ISO/IEC 11801 OM1
TIA 492-AAAB
IEC 60793-2-10, A1a.1
OM2 50 3.5 / 1.5 500 / 500 N/A
ISO/IEC 11801, OM2
ITU G.651.1
TIA 492-AAAC
OM3 50 3.5 / 1.5 1500 / 500 2000 IEC 60793-2-10, A1a.2
ISO/IEC 11801, OM3
TIA 492-AAAD
OM4 50 3.5 / 1.5 3500 / 500 4700 IEC 60793-2-10, A1a.3
ISO/IEC 11801, OM4
www.extron.com 93
Table 3. Table 4.
OS1 and OS2 Fiber Specifications OS1 and OS2 Fiber Comparison
Maximum Attenuation (dB/km) Equivalent or Related OS1 Fiber OS2 Fiber
Performance May not be suitable for Can be used for CWDM applications
Category 1310 nm 1383 nm 1550 nm Standards CWDM applications
IEC 60793-2-50, B1.1 1.0 dB/km maximum 0.4 dB/km maximum attenuation at
OS1 1.0 N/A 1.0 ITU G.652.A attenuation at 1310 nm and 1310 nm, 1383 nm, and 1550 nm
ITU G.652.B 1550 nm wavelengths wavelengths
(loose tube cables only)
IEC 60793-2-50, B1.3
OS2 0.4 0.4 0.4 ITU G.652.C See manufacturer’s datasheets for
ITU G.652.D attenuation in other cable types.
Fiber Cable Standards

The IEC and the Insulated Cable Engineers Association have published
cable design and test standards for indoor and outdoor installations as
shown in Tables 5, 6, 7, and 8.
Table 5.
Indoor Cable Standards
IEC 60794-2-11:2005
Detailed specification for simplex and duplex cables for use in premises cabling.
and BS EN 60794-2-11:2005
IEC 60794-2-21:2006
Detailed specification for multi-fiber optical distribution cables for use in premises cabling.
and BS EN 60794-2-11:2006
IEC 60794-2-31:2006
Detailed specification for optical fiber ribbon cables for use in premises cabling.
and BS EN 60794-2-31:2006
ANSI/ICEA S-83-596 Standard for Optical Fiber Premises Distribution Cable
Table 6.
Outdoor Cable Standards
IEC 60794-3-12:2006 Detailed specification for duct and directly buried optical telecommunication cables for use
and BS EN 60794-3-12:2006 in premises cabling.
IEC 60794-3-21:2006 Detailed specification for optical self-supporting aerial telecommunication cables for use in
and BS EN 60794-3-21:2006 premises cabling.
ANSI/ICEA S-87-640 Standard for Optical Fiber Outside Plant Communications Cable
Table 7.
Indoor / Outdoor Cable Standards
ICEA S-104-696 Standard for Indoor / Outdoor Fiber Optical Cable
Table 8.
Cale Test Standards
ISO/IEC 14763-3 Detailed Specification for testing fiber optic cabling

10 Gbps Passive Optical Network — 10GPON Angled Physical Contact — APC

An ITU-T G.983 standard PON architecture that extends gigabit PON A specific technique for singlemode fiber applications where the end-
performance to 10 Gbps downstream and 2.5 Gbps upstream. face of the fiber or ferrule is cut and polished at an 8° angle in order
to increase contact surface area and help minimize return loss. APC
connectors are typically green in color and are not used in multimode
A applications. They are also rarely used in digital applications. APC
polished connectors are not compatible with UPC, SPC, or PC
polished connectors. Intermixing APC polished connectors with UPC/
Absorption SPC/PC polished connectors can damage the fiber optic cable or
A source of attenuation of light as it passes through fiber, similar to equipment.
the resistive loss of an electrical signal as it passes through copper
cable. As light interacts with the molecular structure of a glass fiber,
Aramid Yarn
and any impurities in that glass, it converts into heat.
A woven strength member, with Kevlar® as a common brand,
incorporated into fiber optic cable that provides tensile strength and
Acceptance Angle protection.
In fiber optics, this is the maximum allowable angle of incidence
for light entering a fiber measured from the center axis of the fiber.
Arc
Incoming light must be directed below this angle in order to enter the
In fiber optics, the discharge that occurs between the two electrodes
core of the fiber and propagate along its length through total internal
of a fusion splicer.
reflection.
ATM Passive Optical Network – APON
Aerial Cable An ITU-T G.983 standard PON architecture based upon
An optical fiber cable designed for outdoor installations on aerial
asynchronous transfer mode – ATM. APON was the first standard
support structures such as poles. Aerial cables are specifically
PON architecture, but has since been replaced by broadband PON.
designed to withstand adverse conditions such as wind and ice
loading, pollution, UV radiation, thermal cycling, stress, and aging.
Attenuation
In fiber optics, this is the loss of optical power as light passes along
Air Blown Fiber — ABF a fiber optic path. This loss can occur due to absorption, scattering,
Optical fiber installed through special tube cables by means of
or excessive bending within the fiber, and can also be attributed
using pressurized air or nitrogen to “blow” bundles of fibers through
to optical components such as connectors, splices, and splitters.
individual tubes within the cable. Tube cables are usually pre-installed
Attenuation is usually expressed in decibels per kilometer — dB/Km.
at the premises before installation of air blown fiber.
Avalanche Photodiode — APD
Air Polish A type of photodetector, or optical signal transducer that converts
The first polishing step in the epoxy and polish method for fiber
light into an electrical signal. APDs are used in fiber optic receivers.
termination. A fine-grit film is used to grind down the fiber stub after
the scribe-and-cleave step.
All Dielectric
B
In fiber optics, this denotes the presence of only dielectric, or non-
metal elements. Back Reflection
Light within an optical fiber that is reflected back toward the source.
Amplitude Modulation — AM This typically occurs at interfaces between the fiber and the connector
An analog method of encoding a transmitted or carrier signal by where an air gap causes the reflection.
varying its magnitude in relation to the information being sent. Using
amplitude modulation, first generation fiber optic AV transmitters vary Backscattering
the intensity of the light to encode analog video and audio signals on The portion of light within an optical fiber that is scattered back
optical carriers. toward the source. An OTDR relies on backscattering to indirectly
measure insertion loss, check for faults, and verify splices.
Anaerobic
For fiber optics, this describes a method of bonding optical fibers via Bend-Insensitive Fiber
a non-heat, intrinsic chemical reaction within an adhesive material. An A special type of fiber optic cable that tolerates bends and stresses
anaerobic adhesive does not require air to cure. with minimal effect on optical loss. Bend-insensitive fiber is available in
both multimode and singlemode varieties.
Angle of Incidence
The angle between a ray incident on a surface and the line Bend Loss
perpendicular to that surface at the point of incidence, called the In fiber optics, the attenuation of light as it passes through a fiber with
normal. excessive bends. Macrobending and microbending both contribute to
bend loss.
www.extron.com 95
Bend Radius Cladding

The amount of bow in a cable, pipe, or tubing, measured to the inside The outer layer surrounding the core of a fiber that serves as an
curvature, beyond which may cause undesirable effects. Bending optical barrier as well as protection for the core. The index of
a fiber optic cable beyond its specified minimum bend radius may refraction for the cladding is always lower than that of the core in
introduce attenuation or cause damage to the fiber. order to maintain total internal reflection, ensuring that the light travels
within the core.
Bit Error Rate — BER Cleave Tool
The fraction of bits that were transmitted with errors, expressed as Also known as a scribe tool, this specialized tool is used to break off
the ratio of incorrectly-to-correctly transmitted bits. BER is used to a portion of an optical fiber by scoring, or scribing the fiber. Optimally,
assess transmission accuracy in a fiber optic system. this tool produces a clean, precise cut with a flat end-face that is at a
90° angle to the fiber axis.
Bit Rate
The rate of digital data transmission, commonly expressed in bits per Cleaving
second — bps, kilobits per second — kbps, Megabits per second — The process of cutting the end of an optical fiber after it has been
Mbps, and Gigabits per second — Gbps. scored or scribed using a cleave or scribe tool.
Breakout Cable Coarse Wavelength Division Multiplexing – CWDM

In fiber optics, a cable comprised of a bundle of jacketed fibers, The multiplexing or combining of several wavelengths as defined by
with the fibers separated from the bundle at one end to facilitate ITU-T G.694.2 into a single optical signal. CWDM is distinguished
installation into panels and other equipment. The fibers are individually from Dense Wavelength Division Multiplexing — DWDM in that it has
jacketed for enhanced protection. a much greater separation between wavelengths, 20 nm.
Breakout Kit Coating

In fiber optics, a kit used to create a breakout cable from bundled An acrylate layer over the fiber that provides protection from moisture
fiber optic cable. as well as possible damage during the manufacturing process. Also
known as a buffer coating.
Broadband Passive Optical Network — BPON
An ITU-T G.983 standard PON architecture that is an improved Compression
version of APON with higher performance standards. BPON is A process in which digital data is reduced to meet system bandwidth
becoming obsolete with the introduction of gigabit PON. requirements, but without negatively affecting the capability to convey
image, video, audio, or the contents of a data file.
Buffer Coating
A plastic coating applied to an optical fiber that provides protection Core
from moisture or damage, as well as handling during the The center of an optical fiber in which light travels. The core’s index
manufacturing of fiber optic cable. of refraction is always greater than that of the cladding surrounding it.
This difference is to maintain total internal reflection, keeping the light
Buffer Tube within the core.
Additional plastic tubing around the buffer coating of an optical fiber
that provides added protection. This tubing is typically color-coded for Coupling Efficiency
easier identification during installation and troubleshooting. The ratio or percentage of optical power from a light source that is
available for transmission down an optical fiber. Coupling efficiency
Butt Closure is a function of the line width of the optical beam and the numerical
A sealed enclosure designed to protect fiber optic splices and aperture of the fiber. A smaller line width or larger numerical aperture
terminations. results in a higher coupling efficiency.
Coupling Loss
C The loss of optical power as light passes through a junction,
expressed as the ratio of the optical power measured at the junction,
such as a coupler, to the total optical power entering the system.
Cable Jacket
An outer protective covering on a fiber optic cable that is often color-
Critical Angle
coded for easy identification of mode type.
An important angle of incidence for light as it meets a boundary
between two refractive materials. Above this angle, total internal
Chromatic Dispersion — CD reflection occurs. In an optical fiber, light that strikes the boundary
A factor that reduces fiber bandwidth as a result of separation of between the core and cladding greater than the critical angle is
the incoming light into components of various wavelengths, which internally reflected within the core as it travels along the fiber.
travel at different speeds along the fiber. This effect occurs in both
multimode and singlemode fiber at very long distances.
Curing Oven
A specialized oven used to thermally cure epoxy for attaching a fiber
optic connector ferrule onto the optical fiber.

Cutoff Wavelength Dispersion

In singlemode optical fiber applications, the wavelength below which A limiting factor in optical fiber transmission performance, where
the fiber transmits as multimode instead of singlemode. a light pulse is broadened, or separated into modes or individual
wavelengths. Dispersion limits transmission bandwidth and distance
capability. The two major types of dispersion are modal dispersion
D and chromatic dispersion.
Dispersion Compensating Fiber — DCF

Dark Fiber A special type of fiber designed to exhibit a large negative dispersion.
A term in fiber optics to denote fiber that is installed at a facility but
DCF is typically used in long-haul telecommunication systems to
reserved for future use.
compensate for dispersion in optical fiber.
Data Compression Dispersion Shifted Fiber — DSF
A mathematical algorithm for compressing or encoding data to fit
A singlemode optical fiber with its optimal dispersion wavelength
within given bandwidth requirements for transmission or storage.
shifted, through the addition of dopants, to a wavelength that delivers
optimal attenuation.
Data Link
A fiber optic system comprising the cable, transmitter, and receiver for
Distributed Feedback — DFB Laser
transmission of data between two locations.
A standard laser diode that uses a laser oscillator comprised of
a diffraction grating and two mirrors with an amplifying medium
dBm between them. A DFB laser is constructed as an edge-emitting
dB referenced to 1 milliwatt. To convert into an equivalent voltage semiconductor laser diode that typically operates at 1310 nm or
level, the impedance must be specified. For example, 0 dBm into 1550 nm for singlemode fiber. DFB lasers are also available at
600 ohms gives an equivalent voltage level of 0.775 V, or 0 dBu; standard CWDM and DWDM wavelengths between 1270 nm and
however, 0 dBm into 50 ohms, for instance, yields an equivalent 1610 nm.
voltage of 0.24 V. Since modern audio engineering is concerned
with voltage levels, as opposed to power levels in the early years
Distribution Cable
of telephone, the convention of using a reference level of 0 dBm is
Fiber optic cable comprising a bundle of jacketed fibers encased
academic. But in the AV industry, many people still refer to 0.775 V,
within an outside jacket.
rms, (600 r) as 0 dBm, which should be more accurately called
0 dBu. In fiber optics, dBm is dB referenced to 1 mW of optical
Distribution Panel
power.
For fiber optic applications, this is both a patch panel and splice
panel, usually installed at a hub or entrance facility.
Dead Zone
A region within a fiber optic system where an OTDR — Optical Time
Dopant
Domain Reflectometer cannot effectively make measurements.
A substance added to a semiconductor or fiber optic glass during the
manufacturing process to cause a change in the properties.
Decibel — dB
The standard unit used to express gain or loss of power between two
Dynamic Range
values. A decibel is 10 times the logarithm of a ratio of two power
The highest and lowest potential signal levels on a given device. Also
values. When comparing voltage or pressure, the values in the ratio
applies to fiber optic applications in terms of the ratio between the
are squared or the log is multiplied by 20 instead of 10. An extension
most — or strongest — and least — or weakest — observable optical
is placed behind the ‘dB’ when one of those values is a fixed
signals.
reference (i.e. dBV, dBu, dBSPL).
Dense Wavelength Division Multiplexing — DWDM

The multiplexing or combining of several wavelengths as defined
E
by ITU G694.1 into a single optical signal. DWDM is distinguished
from Coarse Wavelength Division Multiplexing — CWDM in that the Effective Modal Bandwidth — EMB
separation between wavelengths – 0.8 to 1.6 nm – is much smaller. In fiber optics, the modal bandwidth of a multimode fiber when using
a laser as a light source. EMB is sometimes referred to as laser launch
Detector bandwidth.
A device within fiber optic receivers that converts optical energy to
electrical energy. Electrode
In a fusion splicer, the component which discharges electricity to
Differential Mode Delay — DMD enable two optical fibers to be fused or welded together.
A limiting factor in the performance of transmissions over multimode
fiber, in which there is a differential in the arrival times at the receiver Electromagnetic Interference — EMI
of various modes along the fiber. This differential is caused by model A disturbance that affects an electrical circuit due to either induction
dispersion which is inherent in multimode fiber. or radiation of energy from an electric or magnetic field emitted by an
external source.
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End Finish APC to denote physical contact, super physical contact, or angled
The end-face of an optical fiber at the ferrule finished or polished to physical contact, respectively.
be smooth in order to minimize signal loss or back-reflection. PC,
SPC, UPC, and APC polishing finishes are available for singlemode Fiber
connectors. The basic optical transmission element. The components of a fiber
include the core, surrounded by the cladding, and then a coating for
Entrance Facility protection. Specific optical properties of the core and cladding enable
In fiber optic applications, the entrance to a building for fiber optic light to be contained within the core as it travels along the fiber.
cables.
Fiber Break Locator
Epoxy An instrument used as a simplified method of locating breaks within
An adhesive that bonds between surfaces by means of a chemical an optical fiber. Also known as a Fault Finder.
reaction in which the adhesive cures as it dries. Epoxy is used in fiber
optic applications to adhere a connector ferrule to the fiber. Fiber Coating
A coating surrounding the cladding of an optical fiber during the draw
Ethernet Passive Optical Network — EPON process to protect the fiber from handling and the environment.
An IEEE 802.3 standard PON architecture for transmitting standard
gigabit Ethernet frames with symmetric 1 Gbps upstream and Fiber Distribution Unit — FDU
downstream rates. Also referred to as Gigabit Ethernet PON or An enclosure that houses and organizes groups of optical fibers.
GEPON, EPON has the largest installed base of all standard PON
architectures. Fiber Optic Cable
A telecommunications cable comprising one or more optical fibers.
Extrinsic Joint Loss
The portion of optical signal loss at a joint that is not intrinsic to the Fiber Optics
optical fibers, usually caused by misalignment between the fibers, end The transmission of light through optical fibers for telecommunications
separation, and imperfections in the end finish of either fiber. applications.
Fiber Plant
F All the installed fiber, splices, patch panels, and connectors in a
structured cabling installation.
Fabry‑Perot — FP Laser
Fiber Surface Finish
A standard laser diode that uses a laser oscillator comprised of two
A term describing or denoting the quality of the polishing at the end
mirrors with an amplifying medium between them. An FP laser is
of a fiber.
constructed as an edge-emitting semiconductor laser diode that
operates at 1310 nm for singlemode fiber.
Fiber to the Building/Business – FTTB
Fiber optic service to a business or building.
Fan-Out Kit
In fiber optics, a kit designed for use with loose tube cable with bare
Fiber to the Curb — FTTC
fiber bundles in each buffer tube. The kit enables termination as well
Fiber optic service to a node within a residential neighborhood. The
as protection of these bare fibers.
node in turn feeds several homes via copper wiring.
Fault
Fiber to the Desk — FTTD
In fiber optics, any part of an optical fiber that deviates from normal
Fiber optic runs to individual desktops.
performance.
Fiber to the Home — FTTH
Fault Finder
Fiber optic service to individual homes.
A simplified optical time domain reflectometer — OTDR, an
instrument used to detect breaks within a run of optical fiber. Also
Fibre Channel
known as a Fiber Break Locator.
An industry standard for connecting computers for gigabit-speed
transmission over twisted pair and optical fiber at distances up to
Ferrule
10 km.
A precision tube which centers an optical fiber and provides
stabilization and precise alignment. A ferrule may be part of a
Figure 8
connector or a mechanical splice.
In fiber optics, a method of polishing the end of a connector in a
figure 8 pattern to minimize scratches.
Ferrule Connector — FC
A screw-type optical fiber connector that features a keying
Fillers
mechanism. FCs are typically designated as FC/PC, FC/SPC, or FC/
Non-conducting materials incorporated into the construction of a
fiber optic cable to add roundness, flexibility, tensile strength, or a
combination of all three.
Flat Polish Graded Index Fiber

In fiber optics, a condition at a ferrule where the end-faces of a fiber An optical fiber in which the index of refraction within the core of a
optic cable and the ferrule tip are polished flat. multimode fiber decreases with the radius from the fiber axis. The
index of refraction usually follows a parabolic profile from the fiber axis
Frequency Modulation — FM to the cladding, effectively addressing modal dispersion throughout
A method of combining an information signal with a carrier signal so the fiber link.
that it may be transmitted. FM radio is frequency modulated. Audio
is encoded on the carrier by varying the frequency in response to the Graded Index Plastic Optical Fiber – GI-POF
audio. A plastic multimode optical fiber with an index of refraction within the
core that decreases from the fiber axis to the cladding. The index of
Fiber Optic Transmission System — FOTS refraction usually follows a parabolic profile from the fiber axis to the
A type of data transmission using electromagnetic energy in the form cladding, effectively addressing modal dispersion throughout the
of light waves. fiber link.
Frequency Division Multiplexing — FDM

The combining of two or more signals into a single carrier signal I
for transmission through FM — frequency modulation. Each signal
modulates the carrier signal at a different region of the frequency
Index Matching Gel
spectrum.
A special gel with an index of refraction similar to that of the optical
fiber core. It is applied at the fiber end-face to minimize loss due
Fresnel Reflection
to Fresnel reflection in mechanical splices or cleave and crimp
The partial reflection of light that occurs at the boundary between
connectors.
two materials with different indexes of refraction. In fiber optics, this
is considered a loss when light is partially reflected at a glass-air
Index Matching Material
interface.
Material with an index of refraction similar to that of the optical fiber
core. They are applied at the end-faces of adjoining optical fibers to
Fusion Splicer
minimize losses due to Fresnel reflection.
An instrument that is used to bond, or fuse two optical fibers together
by heating, usually generated by a high intensity electrical arc.
Index of Refraction
The ratio of the speed of light in a vacuum to the speed of light in a
material. Also known as the refractive index.
G
Injection Laser Diode — ILD
Gain A laser in which the lasing, or stimulated emission of coherent light,
(1) A general term for an increase in signal power or voltage produced occurs at the p-n junction of a semiconductor.
by an amplifier. The amount of gain is usually expressed in decibels
above a reference level. Opposite of attenuation. (2) The amplification Inline Splice Closure
of a signal, unit, or system. Expressed in the unit of measurement An enclosure which houses the spliced fiber optic cable and provides
appropriate to the signal or system. (3) In fiber optics applications, cable ports at opposite ends.
the measurement of back reflections using an Optical Time Domain
Reflectometer — OTDR, due to a mismatch in core sizes between Innerduct
adjoining optical fibers. A duct, usually non-metallic, that may be placed within cable trays
or HVAC ducts, to be used as conduit for installation of fiber optic
Gainer cables.
In fiber optics applications, a backscatter measurement condition
with an OTDR that indicates a splice loss, due to a mismatch in core Insertion Loss
size between the two optical fibers. The resulting trace indicates a The loss of optical power as a result of incorporating components
perceived increase in power, and is therefore known as a “gainer.” such as connectors, couplers, or splices into an optical fiber system.
Gigabit Ethernet Passive Optical Network – GEPON Inspection Scope

An IEEE 802.3 standard PON architecture for transmitting standard A microscope specifically for inspecting fiber optic connectors.
gigabit Ethernet frames with symmetric 1 Gbps upstream and
downstream rates. Also referred to as Ethernet PON or EPON. EPON Interbuilding Backbone
has the largest installed base of all the standard PON architectures. A backbone network that provides communication between buildings,
such as on a university or corporate campus, or military installation.
Gigabit Passive Optical Network — GPON
An ITU-T G.983 standard PON architecture that represents an Intermediate Cross-Connect — IC
evolution of the broadband PON standard to enable a downstream A cross-connect, usually a patch panel, used to provide backbone
rate of 2.488 Gbps and an upstream rate of 1.244 Gbps. GPON has cabling between the MC - Main Cross-Connect and HC - Horizontal
the highest growth rate for new installations. Cross-Connect.
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Intermediate Distribution Frame — IDF Light

In telecommunications applications, a metal rack, located in an The region of the electromagnetic spectrum that can be perceived
equipment room or closet, that provides connection between by human vision, also known as the visible spectrum, which covers
interbuilding cabling and the intrabuilding cabling. the wavelength range between about 0.4 µm to 0.7 µm. In laser
and optical communications, this term denotes a broader portion
Intersymbol Interference — ISI of the electromagnetic spectrum, from the near-ultraviolet region of
In fiber optics, the interference between adjacent digital bits in a serial approximately 0.3 µm, through the visible region, and into the infrared
digital stream caused by pulse spreading in an optical fiber. Pulse region to 30 µm.
spreading in an optical fiber due to dispersion in an optical fiber.
Light Emitting Diode — LED
Intrabuilding Backbone A semiconductor device that emits incoherent, narrow-spectrum light
The backbone network within a building that provides within the p-n junction.
communications to individual offices and users.
Light Source
Intrinsic Losses In fiber optics, a generic term for the optical signal transmitter in an
Losses due to inherent differences in the characteristics of the optical optical loss test set - OLTS.
fibers being spliced.
Lightguide
Information Transport System — ITS Also known as an optical waveguide or optical fiber, a glass or plastic
Information Transport System or Intelligent Traffic System. fiber with the ability to guide light along its axis. It comprises a core at
the center, surrounded by a cladding with a lower refractive index to
keep the light within the core through total internal reflection.
J
Link
An optical cable with connectors attached to the transmitter and
Jacket receiver.
Outer protective covering of a wire or cable.
Loose Tube Cable
A type of fiber optic cable in which the fiber is encased within a
K loosely surrounded buffer tube underneath the jacketing. The tube is
usually for protection in outdoor installations.
Kevlar®
A brand name from DuPont for aramid yarn, used in the construction Loose Tube Gel Filled – LTGF
of cables to provide strength and strain relief. A Loose Buffer Cable that is filled with an insulating gel material.
Loss
L In fiber optics, the loss of optical power in connectors, splices, and
fiber defects as light passes through a fiber optic system.
Lapping Film Loss Budget

Sheets of film used for polishing ferrule end-faces, comprising a film A specified, maximum tolerable loss of optical power, or attenuation
backing with mineral particles at various ratings for grit or coarseness. of light, as it passes through a fiber optic system.
Laser Lucent Connector – LC

Light Amplification by Stimulated Emission of Radiation. An optical A high-density optical fiber connector becoming more popular and
source that generates coherent light within a narrow band of replacing the popular SC due to the smaller size. LCs are used on
wavelengths. Extron fiber optic products.
Laser Chirp
A sudden change in the center wavelength of a laser, caused by M
reflected or crosstalk optical energy entering the lasing chamber.
Laser Diode Macrobending

A semiconductor device that produces coherent light within a narrow A term that describes a macroscopic deviation of an optical fiber’s
band of wavelengths. axis from a straight line due to bending, to the extent that optical loss
occurs. Excessive macrobending enables the light traveling down the
Laser-Optimized Multimode Fiber core to strike the core-cladding boundary at an angle of incidence
A multimode fiber with higher bandwidth than legacy multimode fiber, less than the critical angle. A portion of the light transmits into the
designed for transmission with laser based sources such as VCSEL. core and is lost.

Main Cross-Connect – MC Mode Field Diameter — MFD

The central portion of a facility’s backbone cabling that provides A measure of the spot size or beam width of light propagating in a
connectivity between equipment rooms, entrance facilities, horizontal singlemode optical fiber. Usually this is 20% larger than the diameter
cross-connects, and intermediate cross-connects. It usually consists of the core.
of a distribution of patch panel.
Mode Filter
Main Distribution Frame – MDF A device that removes higher-order modes in multimode fiber.
A signal distribution frame that connects lines from the outside and
lines on the inside. Multimode Fiber — MMF
An optical fiber that allows for the propagation of more than one
Matched-Clad Optical Fiber mode or light path. It is commonly used with LED light sources for
A singlemode optical fiber with a cladding of uniform refractive index, shorter distance links.
favored for being less susceptible to bending and splice losses.
Multiple Termination Plug — MTP
Mechanical Splice A small form factor – SFF plug for multiple fibers.
A splice between optical fibers accomplished by using a mechanical
fixture and an index gel, rather than by thermal fusion.
N
Messenger Wire
A wire that is used as the supporting element of a suspended aerial
cable. This wire may be an integral part of, or external to the cable.
Nanometer — nm
A nanometer, or one billionth (10-9) of a meter.
Microbend
A localized defect in an optical fiber at the core-cladding boundary,
Non-Blocking matrix switching
Allows any input to be switched to one or more outputs, including
caused by mechanical stress that results in sharp, microscopic
multiple signal switches occurring simultaneously.
curvatures in the fiber.
Microbending Loss Numerical Aperture — NA

The sine of the acceptance angle, a critically defined angle
Loss in an optical fiber due to sharp, microscopic curvatures, caused
measurement from the center axis of the fiber. Incoming light must
by imperfections in fiber coating, cabling, packaging, and installation,
be directed below this angle in order to enter the core of the fiber and
such as cinching fibers too tightly with a tie wrap.
propagate along its length through total internal reflection.
Micron — μm
A micron, or a millionth (10-6) of a meter.
Non-Zero Dispersion Shifted Fiber — NZDS Fiber
A singlemode fiber with the zero-dispersion wavelength slightly
beyond the spectral region for transmission in order to improve
Mid-Entry
performance.
In fiber optics, the opening up of a fiber optic cable mid-span in order
to access the fibers inside.
Military Tactical Cable

O
Heavy-duty cable designed for rugged installations in adverse
environments. Optical Access Network — OAN
Fiber optic cables, splitters, and couplers installed between service
Mini Zipcord providers and customers.
A 2.5 mm diameter fiber optic cable with two jacketed fibers that can
be separated. Optical Density
The property of a material that causes light to travel at a slower speed
Modal Bandwidth than that of light traveling through a vacuum.
In fiber optics, the bandwidth-length product, measured in MHz-km,
of an optical fiber due to modal dispersion. Optical Distribution Network — ODN
A fiber optic network within an OAN that delivers a single optical
Modal Dispersion signal from a service provider to multiple nodes or terminals.
In fiber optics, the dispersion of a single optical pulse into various
modes which arrive at the light receiving device at different times. This Optical Loss Test Set — OLTS
limits the performance of multimode optical fiber. Test equipment for singlemode or multimode optical fiber comprising
Mode a light source and a power meter, used to measure optical signal loss
A path for light within an optical fiber. Singlemode fiber comprises a along the fiber and any connectors in between.
single path, while in multimode fiber, there are multiple light paths.
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Optical Return Loss — ORL Pitting

A measure, in dB, of the amount of optical power reflected within a In fiber optics, an undesirable end-face polishing condition resulting
fiber optic pathway due to the fiber and optical components. from the use of lapping film that has been contaminated with fiber
optic and grit particles. Pitting can also denote small cracks in the
Optical Time Domain Reflectometer — OTDR end-face due to exposure of cleaning agents to intense light through
An instrument in fiber optics used to measure backscattered light in a fiber.
the detection of defects along a span of optical fiber.
Plastic Optical Fiber — POF
Output Power Optical fibers in which the core and cladding are made of plastic. The
In fiber optics, this is the radiant power, expressed in watts or dBm. diameter of the core is often larger than that of glass fiber.
Overfilled Launch Condition — OFL Plug

In fiber optics, a condition where the incoming light has a spot size In AV and fiber optics, this is also known as the male connector.
and numerical aperture–NA larger than acceptable by the fiber.
Typically associated with LED transmission and multimode cable. Polarization Mode Dispersion
In fiber optics, the effect of light traveling at different speeds
dependent upon the orientation of the light wave as it travels down
P the fiber. Polarization mode dispersion primarily affects singlemode
fiber over very long distances.
Passive Optical Network — PON Polishing Paper
A fiber optic network architecture comprising non-powered optical
A plastic polishing sheet for optical fiber or connector end-faces with
components, including singlemode fiber, splitters, and couplers in
fine grit on one side.
fiber-to-the-premises – FTTx applications. Cable television companies
and other providers use PONs in the optical access network to deliver
Polishing Puck
voice, data, and video services to homes and businesses.
A fixture for optical fiber end-face polishing, used to support a fiber
optic connector ferrule in place, properly aligned to the lapping film.
Photodetector
A device that senses incoming light and outputs an electrical signal in
Positive Intrinsic Negative Diode — PIN Diode
response to the light.
A type of photodiode or optical signal transducer that converts light to
an electrical signal, used in fiber optic receivers.
Photon
An elementary unit of light with both waveform and particle properties.
Positive Intrinsic Negative Field Effect Transistor — PIN-FET
A type of photo-detector or optical signal transducer that converts
Physical Contact — PC light to an electrical signal, used in fiber optic receivers. The PIN-FET
In fiber optics, the point at which a glass surface, such as that of
is a hybrid device that combines a PIN diode with a high-speed FET.
a fiber, physically touches another glass surface, usually that of a
connector. PC polished connectors can be used with SPC or UPC
Power Meter
polished connectors but are not compatible with APC polished
A device that measures the power at the end of a fiber.
connectors. Intermixing APC polished connectors with UPC/SPC/PC
polished connectors can damage the fiber optic cable or equipment.
Precision Cleaver
Multimode applications always use PC, SPC, or UPC polished
A fiber optic tool used to trim an optical fiber for termination or
connectors.
splicing. Precision cleavers scribe and cleave the fiber in a single
step to produce a clean, flat fiber end for low-loss terminations and
Physical Plant
splices. These cleavers can be used to trim all types of glass fiber,
Infrastructure components including cable, connectors, splices,
including singlemode and laser-optimized multimode fibers.
panels, splitters, repeaters and regenerators necessary to propagate
the light signal between the transmitters and receivers of a fiber optic
Profile Alignment System — PAS
system.
A technique for fusion splicing that employs a high-performance
camera to precisely align the cores of two optical fibers.
Pigtail
A short length of cable with one end terminated with a connector and
Pulse Broadening
the other end spliced or hard-wired to existing cable or equipment.
An increase in the duration of a pulse.
Pigtail Assembly
Pulse Code Modulation — PCM
A short length of fiber optic cable with one end terminated with a
A method used to convert an analog signal into noise-free digital data
connector, and the other end fixed to a transmitter, receiver, or long
that can be stored and manipulated by computer. For example, PCM
length of cable via a splice.
of a 4 kHz bandwidth analog signal that takes an 8-bit sample 8,000
times each second results in 64 Kbits of data per second.

Pulse Spreading RFI

The dispersion of an optical signal as it traverses along an optical Radio Frequency Interference. High frequency interference from
fiber. Also known as Pulse Dispersion. transmissions such as telephones, microwaves, and television
stations.
Pulse Width
The time during which a source, such as a laser, is in an “on” state. Ribbon Cable
A cable with several copper wires or optical fibers, each jacketed
side-by-side in a flat, ribbon-like structure.
R
Ribbon Splice
Receive — Rx The splicing of individual optical fibers of a ribbon cable, with each
In fiber optics, to detect an optical signal from a fiber optic cable using fiber spliced on a groove of a substrate or etched silicon chip. Each
a photodetector, such as a PIN diode, APD, or PIN-FET, and convert groove is spaced evenly and a flat cover holds the fibers in place on
it to an electrical signal. The receive port of a transceiver. the substrate.
Receiver Ripcord
In fiber optics, this is the device at the receiving end of a fiber A cord of strong yarn, situated under the cable jacketing, used to
optic system that converts an optical signal to an electrical facilitate in stripping and removal of the jacket.
signal, and houses the necessary signal processing to output
telecommunications, data, or AV signals. Riser
A type of cable designed for vertical runs in shafts spanning multiple
Receiver Sensitivity floors in a building.
The minimum optical power necessary for the photodetector in
a receiver to achieve a specified BER - Bit Error Rate or other
performance specification such as signal-to-noise ratio. S
Reflectance
Sag
In fiber optics, the ratio of optical power reflected to the incident
A measure of the amount of sag in a fiber optic cable, taken at the
power at a connector junction or other component or device. It is
midpoint of a span of cable between two points of support.
expressed as a negative value in decibels – dB.
Sag Section
Reflections
A section defining a span of fiber optic cable between two points of
With video signals, reflections can be caused by energy that is not
support.
absorbed by the load, or a termination, and is reflected, possibly
combining with the original signal. Reflected signals can occur when
Sag Span
the impedance does not match due to wrong termination or mixing
A span selected within a sag section, used as a control to determine
of cable impedance. Some of the undesirable results of reflection
the proper sag, and therefore, tension of a fiber optic cable. At least
include Y/C delays, color smearing, ghosts, and ringing on luma but
two, and normally three sag spans in a sag section are required to
not on color. In fiber optics, abrupt changes in the direction of light at
sag a section properly.
an interface between two dissimilar media so that the light returns to
its origin.
Sag Tension
The tension at which a fiber optic cable is designed to be installed.
Refraction
The change in direction of light as it passes from one medium to
another, dissimilar medium. Refraction also occurs as light passes Scattering
through a graded-index medium in which the refractive index varies The change in direction of light rays or photons after striking small
within the medium. atomic particles, including the molecular structure of the glass, within
the core of the fiber. Scattering is the primary source of attenuation in
optical fiber.
Refractive Index
Also known as the Index of Refraction, the ratio of the speed of light
in a vacuum to the speed of light in a material. Scribe
Scratching the surface of the fiber so that it can be precisely and
cleanly cut at a right angle to the fiber axis.
Repeater/Regenerator
A repeater is a device that detects a weak signal and boosts its
power for continued transmission. A regenerator receives a signal and Scribe Tool
regenerates or reconstructs its waveform for transmission. A device consisting of a scribing blade, usually made from diamond
or tungsten carbide, used to scribe, or score a fiber to allow for a
clean break and a smooth end-face.
Return Loss
A measure of reflected energy in decibels at a specific frequency and
cable length.
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Service Loop Step Index Fiber

A deliberately allotted slack of fiber optic cable, in a splice tray, A fiber in which the refractive index is uniform throughout the core.
closure, vault, or communications output, to accommodate future On the other hand, for a graded index fiber, the refractive index of the
needs. core radially varies between the fiber axis and the cladding.
Sheath Straight Tip — ST

Also known as a cable jacket, the outer protective covering of wire or A popular legacy fiber optic connector with a twist lock design similar
fiber optic cable. to a BNC. The ST connector has a 2.5 mm ferrule.
Signal-to-Noise Ratio — SNR Stripper

Also stated as "S/N ratio". The ratio is expressed in decibels as a A tool used to remove the jacket that surrounds a cable or an
ratio between the signal level and that of the noise accompanying the individual wire within the cable. In fiber optics, a stripper is used to
signal. The higher the S/N ratio, the better the quality of the signal. remove the buffer coating from an optical fiber.
Simplex Cable Subscriber Connector — SC

A cable comprising a single optical fiber. A popular fiber optic connector that features a snap — push-pull —
coupling type. Being replaced by the LC in most applications.
Singlemode Fiber — SMF
An optical fiber with a small core, through which only a single mode Super Physical Contact — SPC
can propagate. In fiber optics, a specific end-face polish for a connector to
achieve typically a -50 dB return loss in singlemode applications.
Source SPC polished connectors can be used with PC or UPC polished
The optical source in a fiber optic system, usually an LED or laser connectors but are not compatible with APC polished connectors.
diode. Intermixing APC polished connectors with UPC/SPC/PC polished
connectors can damage the fiber optic cable or equipment.
Speed of Light Multimode applications always use PC, SPC, or UPC polished
2.998 x 108 meters per second in free space. connectors.
Splice
A permanent connection between the ends of two optical fibers by T
mechanically joining them together, or heating to fuse them together.
Tap
Splice Closure
A fiber optic coupler with two outputs, the second of which, part of
A housing designed to protect splices in an optical fiber from
the incoming light is tapped off into another fiber.
damage, sealing them from the external environment.
Tee Coupler
Splice Organizer
A T-shaped fiber optic coupler with one input and two outputs.
A device that facilitates the splicing of optical fibers, as well as their
permanent storage.
Telecommunications Closet
An enclosed, secure space for housing telecommunications
Splice Panel
equipment, cable terminations, and cross connects.
A rack or wall-mounted panel that allows fiber optic cables to be
organized and spliced. The panel holds splice trays, cable routing,
Termination
and slack storage.
(1) A load or impedance at the end of a cable or signal line used to
match the impedance of the equipment that generated the signal.
Splice Protector
The impedance absorbs signal energy to prevent signal reflections
In fiber optics, a device used to provide protection and mechanical
from going back toward the source. For video signals, termination
strength to a fusion splice, so that it can be handled and organized
impedance is typically 75 ohms; for sync signals, it is usually
into a splice tray or other storage.
510 ohms. (2) A connector at the end of a cable.
Splice Tray
Termination Tools
A container that is used to secure, organize, and protect individual
Tools used in the preparation and installation of connectors on cables
spliced optical fibers.
or optical fibers.
Stapler Cleaver
Terminator
A low-cost tool used to trim standard multimode fiber in preparation
A device that provides termination for a signal line or several signal lines
for termination. Also called a pocket cleaver or beaver tail cleaver,
at the end of a cable. Usually a close-tolerance resistor for each signal,
this stapler-shaped tool is not recommended for singlemode or
a terminator is often mounted in its own enclosed connector, making it
laser-optimized multimode fiber. For a more meticulous trim, use a
easy to install. In fiber optics, an optical plug used to fully terminate the
precision cleaver.
optical path so no light is reflected back toward the source.

Tight-Buffered Cable VCSEL

A fiber optic cable for indoor use in which the buffer coating tightly Vertical Cavity Surface Emission Laser. A high speed, low cost laser
surrounds the cladding for extra protection and provides color-coded diode that emits perpendicular to the surface of the chip, rather than
identification. from an edge.
Time Division Multiplexing — TDM Visible Light

A digital transmission scheme where the channel is divided into two The region of the electromagnetic spectrum that is visible to the
or more time slots or subchannels, such that the subchannels are human eye, from 380 to 770 nm.
taking turns in the bit stream. Multiple digital signals are multiplexed
into a serial digital stream. The serial digital stream is transmitted
Visual Fault Locator — VFL
to the receiver where it is de-multiplexed into the individual digital
A fiber optic light source that emits a visible laser light, usually around
signals.
a wavelength of 635 nm. A VFL is used during fiber termination
for locating breaks in fiber optic cables, for locating a fiber within a
Total Internal Reflection
bundle, and other similar applications.
The total reflection of light as it reaches a boundary between two
optical media at an angle of incidence greater than the critical angle.
Transceiver
W
A device that can operate as a transmitter, receiver, or both.
Waveguide Dispersion
Transmit — Tx The distortion of an electromagnetic signal, or in the case of fiber
In fiber optics, to send an optical signal down a fiber optic cable optics, light as it encounters a waveguide and is dispersed into
using a light source, such as an LED or laser. The transmit port of a multiple components of different modes or wavelengths.
transceiver.
Wavelength
Transmitter The distance from one peak to the next between identical points in
A device that converts from one signal type to another for adjacent waves of electromagnetic signals propagated in space or
transmission. In fiber optics, the component or subsystem that along a wire. Wavelength is usually specified in meters, centimeters,
converts an electrical signal to an optical signal and launches the or millimeters. In the case of infrared, visible light, ultraviolet, and
optical signal down a fiber optic cable using a light source, such as an gamma radiation, the wavelength is usually specified in nanometers
LED or laser. (10e-9 meter) or Angstroms (10e-10 meter). Wavelength is inversely
related to frequency. The higher the frequency of the signal, the
Tunable Laser shorter the wavelength.
A laser in which its central wavelength can be varied or optimized as
desired for a particular application. Wavelength Division Multiplexing — WDM
The combination of two or more optical signals at different
wavelengths for transmission within a single optical fiber.
U
Wavelength Division Multiplexing Passive Optical Network —
WDM PON
Ultra Physical Contact — UPC
A blend of multiple colors of the visible portion of electromagnetic
In fiber optics, a specific endface polish for a connector to achieve
spectrum, resulting in light that is white in color to the human eye.
typically a -60 dB return loss in singlemode applications. UPC has
become the most common polish for fiber optic connectors in digital
White light
applications. UPC polished connectors can be used with PC or
A non-standard version of a PON that uses CWDM and DWDM
SPC polished connectors but are not compatible with APC polished
technologies in an Optical Access Network — OAN.
connectors. Intermixing APC polished connectors with UPC/SPC/PC
polished connectors can damage the fiber optic cable or equipment.
Multimode applications always use PC, SPC, or UPC polished
connectors. Z
Underfilled Launch Condition — ULC Zipcord
In fiber optics, a condition where the incoming light only fills a small A cable comprising two jacketed wires or optical fibers that are
percentage of the fiber core. conjoined together and can be separated.
Vault
A storage product that houses fiber optic cable slack and splice trays.
www.extron.com 105
Fiber Optic Technology

What is optical fiber? are 850 nm and 1300 nm due to the availability of low cost
Optical fiber is a glass or plastic filament that guides a light wave semiconductor light sources and photodetectors.
along its path.
What wavelengths are used with singlemode fiber?
What is multimode fiber? The most common wavelengths are 1310 nm and 1550 nm. At
Multimode fiber is optical fiber that allows light to travel down multiple 1310 nm, chromatic dispersion is near zero, and at 1550 nm,
paths, also referred to as modes. It features a core diameter of 50 to attenuation is near its minimum. In OS1 singlemode fiber, wavelengths
62.5 microns. Multimode fiber can be used to transmit AV signals in around 1390 nm should be avoided due to high attenuation caused
short to intermediate-distance applications, such as within a building. by absorption. OS2 singlemode fiber is capable of transmitting any
wavelength above its cutoff wavelength, which is typically around
1250 nm.
What is singlemode fiber?
Singlemode fiber is optical fiber that allows light to travel down a What is the cutoff wavelength for singlemode fiber?
single path known as the fundamental mode. It features a core
diameter of 8 to 9 microns. Singlemode fiber can be used to transmit The cutoff wavelength for singlemode fiber is the minimum
AV signals over extreme distances up to many miles or kilometers. wavelength that supports one mode of propagation. Above the cutoff
wavelength, singlemode fiber propagates only one mode. Below the
cutoff wavelength, singlemode fiber propagates more than one mode,
How is an AV signal transmitted down a fiber? similar to multimode fiber.
A fiber optic transmitter converts the AV signal into an optical signal,
using a VCSEL or laser diode as a light source. A glass fiber guides How is an electrical AV signal converted into an optical
the optical AV signal along its path. A photodetector in a fiber optic
receiver at the far end of the fiber converts the optical AV signal back
AV signal?
into an electrical AV signal. An electrical AV signal is converted into an optical AV signal using
an optical transmitter or an electrical-to-optical converter. An optical
What is a light-emitting diode? transmitter uses a laser diode as the light source, varying the intensity
of the laser light in accordance with the electrical signal. For an analog
A light-emitting diode — LED is a semiconductor device that emits signal, the intensity of the light source varies with the voltage or
light when an electrical current passes through it. An LED that emits current of the electrical signal. For digital signals, the light intensity is
visible light is used in a variety of applications, including signage, high or low, which represents logical ones or zeros.
area lighting, numerical displays, and indicator lights on electrical
equipment. In fiber optics, an LED is used as a light source for low-
speed signals such as, TOSLINK or 100BASE-SX Ethernet, due to
How is an optical AV signal converted back into an
its low cost. An LED is not recommended for transmitting high speed electrical AV signal?
video signals over fiber. An optical signal is converted back into an electrical signal using
an optical receiver or an optical-to-electrical converter. The optical
What is a laser diode? receiver uses a photodetector to receive the optical signal and
convert it into an electrical signal.
A laser diode is a semiconductor device that emits a narrow beam of
coherent light, such as the beam of light from a laser pointer. In AV
fiber optic transmitters, laser diodes are used as the light source for What are the problems with the direct conversion of
transmitting video, audio, and control signals. analog video signals into optical signals?
The direct conversion of an analog electrical signal to an optical signal
What is a VCSEL? and back has non-linear effects that distort analog video signals. It is
VCSEL stands for Vertical Cavity Surface Emitting Laser. A VCSEL is difficult to compensate for these distortions. Fiber also has attenuation
a special type of laser diode that has lower manufacturing costs than that causes optical power to dim over longer distances. When the
other types of laser diodes. It can be mass-produced with high yield dimmed optical signal is converted back into an electrical signal, the
rates and has a smaller PCB footprint, making it ideal for use in fiber voltage levels are too low. Amplifiers can compensate for low voltage,
optic transmitters to send high resolution video, audio, and control but also increase signal noise, thereby reducing the signal-to-noise
signals. ratio. Fiber optic AV equipment that uses analog techniques suffers
from increased noise and distortion, which produces a low quality
video signal.
What is a photodetector?
A photodetector is a semiconductor device that converts an optical How does Extron handle analog video signals in its
signal into an electrical signal. A photodetector is used in a fiber optic
fiber optic products?
receiver to convert optical AV signals.
Extron fiber optic products convert analog signals to digital signals
for an all-digital transmission of video, audio, and control signals.
What wavelengths are used with multimode fiber?
Converting the analog video signal to a digital signal for optical
Multimode fiber is capable of transmitting a wavelength at or around transmission ensures the highest quality video.
850 nm, 1300 nm, and 1550 nm. The most common wavelengths
Fiber Optic Applications What are the advantages of fiber optic AV systems in
hazardous environments?
How far can I transmit an AV signal on an optical fiber? There are often explosive or flammable vapors or gases in hazardous
environments. If a copper wire carrying an electrical signal breaks,
Optical AV signals can be transmitted for several kilometers or miles
there is usually a spark, which can ignite the vapors in this type of
on singlemode fiber, and hundreds of meters or thousands of feet
environment. Since fiber optic cables carry light, they do not spark if
on multimode fiber. Newer, laser-optimized multimode fiber may
broken. For this reason, fiber optic cable is often used in hazardous
extend transmission distances up to 2 km. Typically, multimode fiber
environments.
is used within buildings, between floors or on the same floor, while
singlemode fiber is designed for long haul transmission between
buildings on a campus or between facilities. What are the advantages of fiber optic AV systems in
electrically noisy environments?
What AV applications require fiber technology? Heavy equipment, such as industrial machinery, air conditioners, and
Fiber optical technology is ideal when transmitting video, audio, motors emit strong electrical signals that can interfere with AV signals
and control signals over long distances, in secure or hazardous carried in nearby copper wires. Made of glass, fiber optic cables
environments, or anywhere where it is important to future-proof an do not pick up stray electrical signals, and are immune to electrical
AV system. Long distance transmission makes fiber optic products interference.
ideal for installation in stadiums, college campuses, medical facilities,
corporate campuses, performing arts centers, concert halls, and How can fiber optic technology future-proof an AV
office buildings. Low signal emissions make fiber optic products system?
preferred for secure environments such as military or government The transition to digital video standards and higher resolutions has
applications. Fiber optics is the ideal technology for multi-gigabit revealed the many limitations of copper cabling. High resolution digital
digital video standards, ensuring that an AV system is upgradable to video signals run at multi-gigabit data rates, pushing copper cabling
future standards. to its limits. Installing fiber optic cables in today's systems provides
a path for future video signals. Fiber optic cable is an ideal cabling
What are the advantages of fiber AV systems in large solution for the multi-gigabit data rates and long distances required in
venues and long haul transmissions? future AV systems.
Optical fiber is low-loss compared to electrical wire, and can transmit
a signal over very long distances without the need of a repeater. How does the size and weight of fiber cable compare
Comparatively, optical transmission is lower in cost than electrical to coaxial cable?
transmission for long distances. Optical fiber is much smaller and lighter than electrical cables, and
has a capacity that is thousands of times greater than coaxial cable.
What are the advantages of fiber optic AV systems in A 1,000 meter (3,280 foot) length of a 24-fiber distribution cable
government applications? weighs 46 pounds and is 8.7mm (0.33 inches) in diameter, compared
Copper wires emit electrical signals that can be picked up with to a 24-cable bundle of RG-6 that weighs 3,600 pounds and has
special listening equipment. To avoid these emissions, secure areas nearly five times the diameter at 38 mm (1.5 inches). In practice,
in government buildings and at military installations are electrically however, it would be impossible to transmit high resolution digital
isolated from other parts of the facility to prevent any stray electrical video over 1,000 meters of RG-6, while the fiber optic cable has
emissions. Since optical fiber is immune to electrical interference and more than enough capacity to carry multiple HD video signals over
has zero electrical emissions, it is preferred over copper wire to carry thousands of meters with pixel-for-pixel performance.
sensitive information. To intercept an optical signal traveling down a
fiber, the connection must be interrupted, which is easily detectable. When should singlemode fiber be used in an AV
Since optical fiber is made of glass, it can also be used to transmit system?
information between secure facilities that are electrically isolated. Singlemode fiber is ideal for long haul transmissions of up to 30 km
(18.75 miles). It is ideal for transmitting signals between buildings
What are the advantages of fiber optic AV systems in on a college or corporate campus. It can also be used for long haul
medical applications? transmission between separate facilities.
Medical systems need to isolate electrical equipment from the patient
for safety, usually have space constraints for cable runs, and must When should multimode fiber be used in an AV system?
limit the effect of electrical interference on other sensitive medical Multimode fiber is used to transmit signals for hundreds of meters
equipment. Additionally, high-voltage video displays must be isolated or thousands of feet. It is ideal for transmitting signals between
from medical imaging machines. Often, the displays are mounted floors of a building, or from an equipment room to a wide variety of
on booms so that they can be adjusted for optimal viewing by the presentation rooms and spaces.
surgeon and other medical staff. This type of mounting system
requires that the cabling medium be small but also strong. Since fiber What type of multimode fiber should be used for new
optic cables are made of glass, they isolate displays from medical
installations?
imaging devices, are small enough to fit inside of mounting booms,
and emit no electrical signals that could affect other equipment. OM4 or better multimode fiber is recommended for all new
installations. The resolution and color depth of video signals continue
www.extron.com 107
to climb. OM4 or better fiber optic cable provides a level of future What is an optical loss budget?
proofing as video resolution and data rates continue to rise. An optical loss budget is the maximum amount of optical loss or
attenuation allowable in a fiber optic link. It is calculated as the
What type of multimode fiber should be used when difference between the output power of the transmitter and the
adding to an existing installation? sensitivity of the receiver.
Mixing multimode fiber with different core sizes in a single fiber run is
usually not recommended. If existing fiber runs are being extended How is an optical loss budget used in AV system
through fusing or connecting fibers together, the same fiber core size design?
is normally used. However, if the installed fiber does not have the The total amount of loss in the fiber optic link is calculated by adding
capacity to handle signals due to the upgrade, it may be necessary to up attenuation caused by glass fiber, connectors, splices, and
install OM4 or better cable. other optical components. This number is subtracted from the loss
budget to determine the loss margin. A loss margin of at least 3 dB
Why is singlemode fiber less costly than multimode is recommended to account for future cabling repairs and aging of
fiber? optical components.
Singlemode fiber has a step index core, while multimode fiber has
a graded index core with very tight performance requirements. What types of fiber optic cables are available for AV
Therefore, singlemode fiber is less costly to manufacture. applications?
Fiber optic cables are available in many different construction types
Why not always use singlemode fiber? depending on the application. As with other types of indoor cable,
Laser light sources and photodetectors used for singlemode fiber optic indoor cables are available as riser or plenum-rated.
applications are significantly more expensive than those used for Outdoor cables are available as aerial cables or direct burial. Armored
multimode. This difference translates into higher equipment costs for cables are also available to provide extra protection from rodents or
singlemode systems. tampering.
What is dark fiber and how is it used for AV systems?
Design Considerations Dark fiber is pre-installed fiber optic cable that was installed for
future use but is not currently being used. Structured cabling is often
installed with extra fiber optic cables for future expansion. If available,
Can singlemode and multimode fiber be intermixed? dark fiber can be used to install new AV equipment without the
added cost of installing new fiber. When signals are being transmitted
Developing a system that uses both singlemode and multimode
between floors of a building or between buildings on a campus, the
fiber is possible if using a switching system that supports both fiber
availability of dark fiber will simplify the installation.
types, such as the Extron FOX Matrix Series. Singlemode fiber must
be connected to a singlemode port, and multimode fiber must be
connected to a multimode port. Directly connecting singlemode and
multimode fiber is not recommended as the difference in core sizes
introduces losses into the system.
Extron Products
What are the types of fiber optic connectors? What types of fiber optic products does Extron offer?
Common types of fiber optic connectors include the ST, SC, FC/PC, Extron offers fiber optic matrix switchers, switchers, distribution
FC/ APC, and LC. The LC connector is very popular due to its high amplifiers, signal processors, extenders, cables, and accessories.
performance, small size, and ease of use. Multi-fiber connectors are Extron products enable long-haul transmission of HDMI, DVI, multi-
also gaining popularity. The MTP/MPO are the preferred connector rate SDI, high resolution RGB or HD component, and standard
type for 40 Gbps and 100 Gbps data transmission standards. definition video, as well as audio, RS-232 control, and USB signals
over fiber optic cable at extreme distances up to 30 km (18.75 miles).
What if I am installing equipment that uses a different
connector than the existing fiber infrastructure? What types of fiber do Extron fiber optic products
The ST and SC connectors have often been standardized for
support?
legacy fiber installations. However, the LC connector is preferred for Extron fiber optic products include models for both multimode fiber at
modern installations due to its compact size, self-locking feature, and 850 nm wavelength and singlemode fiber at 1310 nm wavelength.
alignment capability. The recommended solution is to terminate each
end of the cable with the appropriate connector type. Alternatively, What are the advantages of Extron all digital
an adapter can be used with a patch cable to convert from one technology?
connector type to another.
Extron all digital technology delivers pixel-for-pixel transmission of
video signals to ensure optimal image quality at high resolutions.

Extron Products
What is the advantage of LC-type connectors on Extron What training does Extron offer for using fiber optic
products? technologies in AV systems?
The LC-type connector used on Extron products is very popular Extron offers advanced fiber optic training as part of the School
in fiber optics, due to its high performance, small size, reliable of Emerging Technologies. The School of Emerging Technologies
connectivity, and precise core alignment. provides in-depth instruction designed to allow system designers
and integrators to master additional AV technologies within a short
What types of fiber optic cabling products does Extron time span. The training concentrates on new as well as evolving
offer? technologies, helping to refine digital AV system design by teaching
concepts and techniques for different technologies. The student-
Extron offers fiber optic bulk cables and factory-terminated fiber instructor ratio is kept low to ensure that each class member receives
optic cable assemblies in both OM4 laser-optimized multimode and individual attention. The School of Emerging Technologies provides
singlemode varieties. All Extron fiber optic cables are bend-insensitive instructor-led training and demonstration along with hands-on
to simplify installation and reduce bend-induced losses. Extron cables experiences in real-world scenarios to reinforce understanding of the
also include an ONFP-rated jacket for installation in plenum or riser technologies.
spaces.
What is the advantage of Extron bend-insensitive fiber

optic cabling?
Extron multimode and singlemode fiber optic cables are bend-
insensitive to simplify installation and reduce bend-induced losses.
Fiber optic bend losses are negligible down to a 7.5 mm fiber bend
radius.
What is the advantage of Extron OM4 laser-optimized

fiber optic cabling?
Extron multimode fiber optic cables meet or exceed OM4
performance ratings, making it the highest performance fiber optic
cable available. It has the information-carrying capacity to handle the
highest resolution video resolutions in use today, and is designed to
handle even higher resolution video signals of the future.
Does Extron offer fiber optic termination products?

Extron offers a pre-polished, no-epoxy fiber optic termination system
for quick, reliable termination of multimode and singlemode fiber optic
cables. The Extron Fiber Optic Termination Kit includes all of the tools
and equipment needed to strip, prepare, cleave, and terminate a fiber
optic cable using Extron Quick LC Fiber Optic Connectors. A visual
fault locator — VFL is included in the kit to provide a visual indication
of a properly terminated fiber optic connector.
What type of fiber optic test equipment does Extron

offer?
Extron offers a Fiber Optic Test Set with all of the tools needed to
measure optical power and loss in multimode and singlemode fiber
optic AV equipment and cabling. The light source includes both a
multimode LED output that operates at 850 nm and 1300 nm, and
a singlemode laser output that operates at 1310 nm and 1550 nm.
The power meter, compatible with both multimode and singlemode
fiber and featuring an easy-to-read LCD display, is used for measuring
insertion loss in dB and optical power in dBm or watts.
www.extron.com 109
Installation
What skills are needed to install optical fiber for AV How do you repair a broken fiber?
systems? Common methods for repairing broken fibers include fusion splicing,
The skills needed to install fiber optic cabling are similar to the mechanical splicing, or connector splicing. The most appropriate
skills required for installing copper cabling. Fiber optic cables are method depends on the optical loss budget, the application type,
constructed with strength members to allow pulling for long cable what equipment is available , and the skills of the repair technician.
runs. Field termination kits are available that make fiber termination as In most cases, a fusion or mechanical splice is used for repairs.
easy as terminating coaxial cable. Also, as with electrical installations, A connector splice is generally used when another component or
installers need to be trained prior to working with fiber cables. device must be installed in line with the fiber.
How far can I bend optical fibers during installation? What is a mechanical splice?
Manufacturers specify the minimum bend radius for optical fiber. It is A mechanical splice is a device that holds two fiber ends in a precisely
extremely important not to bend the fiber beyond the manufacturer's aligned position to enable light to pass from one fiber to another.
recommendation. If the specifications are unknown, the rule of thumb Index matching gel is used to hold the cores together.
is that the minimum bend radius is 20 times the cable diameter
for standard fiber optic cable. Many newer cables are using a What is a fusion splice?
special fiber construction called bend-insensitive fiber, which has an A fusion splice involves a splicing machine to align the fibers and fuse
extremely tight bend radius. or weld them together using an electric arc. This produces a very low-
loss connection that is superior to a mechanical splice. However, the
What happens if I bend a fiber too far? equipment required for fusion splicing is more costly.
Bending fiber beyond the minimum bend radius causes loss in the
fiber optic signal, and could potentially damage the fiber. How do you identify the type of dark fiber installed if it
is poorly documented?
What considerations exist when connecting fibers The color of the fiber jacket may identify the type of fiber. Multimode
using a connector? jacketing is orange or aqua, while singlemode is yellow. Cable
Special care must be taken when connecting and disconnecting markings may also help identify the manufacturer and type of cable.
optical cables to avoid damaging the fiber or the connector on the Manufacturer data sheets can provide performance specifications,
device. Dust caps should be used when a fiber cable is disconnected and an optical loss test set or OTDR helps to determine losses
to protect from damage. The fiber and connector should be cleaned in the fiber link. However, field testing to determine performance
prior to mating. Also, there should be no optical signal in the cable specifications is not an option.
or out of the connector when disconnecting, connecting, or during
cleaning. What cable markings are used for plenum-rated fiber
optic cable?
When do I clean the fiber optic connectors? Plenum-rated fiber optic cable should be marked as OFNP, which
Both the fiber and connector ends should be cleaned immediately stands for Optical Fiber Non-conductive Plenum. If the fiber optic
before mating. Ensure that no optical signal is present in the fiber cable includes a metallic armor, it is marked as OFCP for Optical Fiber
during cleaning. Conductive Plenum.
Why do I need to clean fiber optic connectors? What cable markings are used for riser-rated fiber optic
Even in clean environments, a single dust particle could completely cable?
block an optical signal. The size of a dust particle is about the same Riser-rated fiber optic cable should be marked as OFNR, which
size or larger than the core of a singlemode optical fiber. stands for Optical Fiber Nonconductive Riser. If the fiber optic cable
includes a metallic armor, it is marked as OFCR for Optical Fiber
What do I use to clean fiber optic connectors? Conductive Riser.
Special solvents, cleaners, lint-free wipes, and swabs are available.
The swabs are for cleaning inside of the connector on an instrument.
Always follow the manufacturer's cleaning recommendation.
Can fiber optic light cause harm?

Although the light used for fiber optic transmission is in the infrared
range and is not visible to the human eye, it can still cause damage.
Laser light is a concentrated beam that can cause injury or blindness.
Avoid looking into a fiber if it is unknown whether there is an active
light source.

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System Integrator® Five years parts and labor

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Fiber Optics for AV Professionals

Fiber Optics for Professional AV Systems . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2

Fiber Optic System Designs

Extron Fiber Optic Product Solutions

Standards, Glossary, and FAQs

Standards for Fiber Optic Cables . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 91

What is Fiber Optics? college campuses, throughout sports stadiums,

Standard How Far Can You Transmit

Copper Cable Fiber Cable

FOXBOX Tx DVI Plus Tx Rx 1 2 FOXBOX Rx DVI Plus Tx Rx 1 2

Fiber Optic Cables are Completely Immune to Electrical Interference Tx Rx Tx Rx

FOXBOX Tx DVI Plus OPTICAL FOXBOX Rx DVI Plus OPTICAL

FOXBOX Tx DVI Plus Tx Rx 1 2 FOXBOX Rx DVI Plus Tx Rx 1 2

FOXBOX Tx DVI Plus OPTICAL FOXBOX Rx DVI Plus OPTICAL

­6 Extron Fiber Optic Design Guide

Fiber’s ultra-low Figure 1.

are prompting its 0.0001 nm 0.01 nm 10 nm 1000 nm 0.01 cm 1 cm 1m 100 m

400 nm 500 nm 600 nm 700 nm

Fiber Optic Technology Properties of Light

­8 Extron Fiber Optic Design Guide

Incident Reflected Incident Reflected

The index of refraction, or refractive index, is Optical Fiber Construction

The angle of incidence above which total internal

angle of incidence greater than the critical angle, Cladding

all of the light is reflected. Total internal reflection Core

is what enables light to be transmitted along an 960 µm

into the core, keeping the light travelling down

manufacturing process as a protective layer. Core

An optional, secondary 900 μm buffer may be

cables typically use the 250 µm buffered fibers,

Light Sources Used in Fiber Optic AV Active Region

Light Emitting Diode

­10 Extron Fiber Optic Design Guide

Since the VCSEL is a laser, it produces a narrow

is extremely high with nearly all of the light focused

Both multimode and Distributed Feedback Laser Figure 9.

control signals in AV 1610 nm to support coarse and dense wavelength

The narrow beam width, narrow spectral width,

Figure 10. Figure 11.

Active Region Active Region

Edge Emission P Edge Emission

­12 Extron Fiber Optic Design Guide

The combined effect of scattering and absorption Figure 12.

Fortunately, semiconductor materials have

Dispersion in Fiber Optic Cables

OM4 fiber is Figure 14.

Multimode Graded Index

Singlemode Step Index

Table 1. Singlemode and Multimode Fiber Categories

­14 Extron Fiber Optic Design Guide

Since chromatic dispersion is a function of light’s

the losses in the fiber Vertical

Typically, attenuation in multimode fiber is less than

Extron fiber optic products are designed to achieve

How Dispersion Affects Fiber Optic

­16 Extron Fiber Optic Design Guide

0 500 1000 1500 2000 2500 3000

RG59 RG6 Low-Loss Multimode Fiber Singlemode Fiber

Attenuation and Dispersion in Fiber Optic AV

dispersion effects within the fiber, avoiding the

In analog systems using coaxial cable, level and C Resulting

6 Extron Fiber Optic Design Guide

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10 Extron Fiber Optic Design Guide

12 Extron Fiber Optic Design Guide

14 Extron Fiber Optic Design Guide

16 Extron Fiber Optic Design Guide

18 Extron Fiber Optic Design Guide

22 Extron Fiber Optic Design Guide

24 Extron Fiber Optic Design Guide