LYNX Technik
Case Study: Magnax Co., Ltd.
yellowbrik fiber optic converters deliver "peace of mind" at event venues.
MagnaX Co., Ltd. is a professional group that provides video and audio technical support for events across diverse genres, including anime, games, and music. They specialize in high-definition and highly reliable video transmission, particularly for live events and streaming, and offer flexible solutions to keep pace with evolving video technology.
This time, Mr. Moriguchi, who is involved in equipment selection and overall configuration, and Mr. Takeuchi, who often has opportunities to set up equipment on-site, spoke about the background behind the introduction of yellowbrik and the changes they have noticed in the field since its implementation.
Sales Department, Aina Takeuchi; Technical Department, Koki Moriguchi
Challenges in video transmission
In recent years, with the increasing size of event venues and the advancement of high-definition video materials, there has been a surge in the need to transmit high-bitrate signals, including 12G-SDI, over long distances and across multiple channels.
Until now, our company has been using multimode fiber optical converters (manufactured by other companies) for long-distance transmission.
* For short to medium distances, SDI transmission is performed using BNC cables.
However, using multimode fiber or BNC cables presented physical challenges such as the amount of wiring required, transmission distance, and signal degradation, which became a burden on the field.
[Challenges on site]
12G-SDI transmission over 50m
Complicated cable wiring and installation work
Discontinuation of installed optical converters and dissatisfaction with after-sales support system.
To address these challenges, we have begun research into new equipment.
Products you use
OTR 1A41, OTR 1A42
8K (12G-SDI Quad-Link) Fiber Transmission System
The OTR 1A41 and OTR 1A42 are transmission kits that can transmit four 12G-SDI signals (8K/48G compatible) over a single optical fiber.
This transmitter and receiver set can transmit up to 4 channels of 12G-SDI signals uncompressed, without degradation or delay.
By cascading OTR 1A41 and OTR 1A42, it is possible to support up to 8 transmission channels.
OBD 1514 E
1 Gbit/s Ethernet WDM equipped fiber optic transceiver
The OBD 1514 E is an Ethernet switch for long-distance transmission of 1GbE signals.
WDM technology enables bidirectional communication using single-core fiber.
Each module has two RJ45 ports, and the entire system functions as a 4-port switch.
Why I chose yellowbrik
現場の課題を解決するため、各メーカーの光コンバーターを模索していた時に、社内のスタッフから「yellobrikを検討してはどうか？」との提案を受けました。
LYNX Technik の日本総代理店 株式会社ガンスイの営業担当より、課題解決のため シングルモードファイバー仕様の光ファイバーコンバーター『yellobrikシリーズ』の導入を提案いただきました。
同シリーズは「動作安定度について業界での評価が高い」との説明を受け、デモ機による社内検証を実施したところ、伝送安定性と他社製品を上回るノイズ耐性を確認できたため導入検討へと進めました。
The deciding factor was "a sense of security."
When selecting equipment, reliability was our top priority. Our work often involves "one-shot, no-fail" events, so equipment reliability is extremely important.
Furthermore, as a professional tool, the "sense of security that anyone can use without hesitation" is important in that it does not increase tension on the job site.
LYNX Technik is a manufacturer of equipment for the broadcasting industry, so while performance is important, the biggest deciding factor in our selection was the "peace of mind that comes from being able to use their products with confidence."
From multi-mode to single-mode
When attempting to transmit video over long distances, BNC cables are insufficient to cover the required range. Furthermore, the multimode optical converter we were using at the time is no longer in production and support can no longer be expected.
Therefore, we decided to take this opportunity to switch from multimode to the currently mainstream single-mode specification, and also to LC connectors from SC type. Furthermore, the fact that single-mode allows for the transmission of multiple channels with a single cable using WDM (Wavelength Division Multiplexing) functionality was a crucial point.
Benefits I experienced with the 4-channel transmitter/receiver OTR 1A41 and OTR 1A42
Generally, optical transmission requires one optical cable per SDI signal channel, but with yellowobrik (OTR 1A41/OTR 1A42), four channels can be transmitted with a single optical cable, eight channels can be transmitted by cascading two units, or four channels bidirectionally, and four channels can be transmitted plus network transmission by cascading with an Ethernet optical transceiver (OBD 1514 E).
I felt that the inclusion of CWDM (Coarse Wavelength Division Multiplexing) functionality, which allows for multi-channel transmission with a single cable, was a major advantage.
Example settings
Setting A
12G-SDI 8 channels
1-core transmission
Setting B
12G-SDI 4-channel bidirectional
1-core transmission
Setting C
12G-SDI 4-channel
1Gbps Ethernet signal
1-core transmission
Overheating problem of the equipment
従来使用していた光伝送モジュールは、手で触れない程発熱したり、その冷却のためにファンが回り騒音や振動が発生したりしましたが、yellobrikは長時間稼働してもほとんど熱を持ちませんでした。
この種の機器は熱によりトラブルが発生する事が多いため、その点でも好印象を持ちました。
Challenges of transmission distance and the durability of optical cables
In the field, the distance between the optical converter's location and the base station is often around 200-300m, but with a multimode specification, there was little margin for error in the transmission distance, which caused some concern.
Furthermore, since the cables being used were of the standard type with a protective coating, there was a risk of them breaking due to being stepped on or snagged.
With the yellowbrik single-mode converter, there are (effective) limitations on transmission distance, and regarding cable durability, the use of the armored cable introduced by Gunsui eliminates any concerns about cable breakage.
Implementation effects
High reliability is required in situations where "it's a one-shot deal."
Previously, problems such as "signals not passing through" or "unstable signals" sometimes occurred.
Since implementing yellowbrik, we've been able to reliably transmit 8 channels of video over a single fiber optic cable, and we haven't experienced a single problem so far.
Regarding setup time
Traditionally, when transmitting multiple channels, a separate converter had to be installed and set up for each channel. Furthermore, in addition to the video channels, control signals also needed to be sent via separate optical cables, making on-site setup cumbersome.
In the custom-made trunk case storage version from Gunsui, multiple yellowbrik modules are stored together in the case.
After positioning the transmitting and receiving cases at the site, simply running a single fiber optic cable between the transmitting and receiving cases completes the setup between the remote location and the base station.
After installation, the setup time was significantly reduced because individual devices could be connected simply by plugging SDI signal (BNC) and control signal (RJ45) cables into the connector panel on the case.
The LED indicator allows you to quickly check the signal status, which is very convenient.
Future expectations for yellobrik
With the yellowbrik series, you can achieve high image quality and virtually eliminate distance limitations even with high-bitrate 12G-SDI transmission.
*There will generally be no data transmissions exceeding 5km during the event.
Furthermore, since a single optical cable can transmit not only video but also other signals such as audio and LAN signals, it can flexibly handle the increasing number of 4K and 8K projects in the future.
Considering expandability, single-mode light is overwhelmingly superior, and I believe it will continue to be the mainstream in the future.
We have high expectations for the future of the LYNX Technik / yellobrik series, which boasts an extensive lineup and expertise in optical transmission equipment.
Points of comparison
Thermal management: Low power consumption, low heat generation, and fanless, silent design.
Ease of use: Transmission with a single cable reduces setup time.
Reliability: High bandwidth, no jitter, stable operation
Multi-mode specifications
Optical converter
yellobrik
(OTR 1A41/OTR 1A42)
Single mode specification
Cable connection
You will need at least two optical cables in total: one for video and one for control.
1本の光ケーブルで映像(最大4チャンネル)＋制御信号を同時伝送
Number of transmission channels
With one cable
1 channel / 1 unit
With one cable
4 channels/1 unit
Cascaded connection allows transmission of 8 channels/2 units.
Heat generation and cooling
Overheating occurs; noise and vibration are generated by the cooling fan.
長時間稼働でも低発熱
ファンレス設計
Storage and installation
For each individual module of the device
Setup is required.
A separate fiber optic cable connection is required for each system.
All modules are stored together in a trunk case.
A single fiber optic cable connection is sufficient between the locations.
Simply connect the BNC connector from the source to the connector on the storage case, and the setup is complete.
others
LED indicator shows connection status at a glance.
Yellowrik: A choice derived from real-world operational experience
Magnax always selects the optimal equipment and utilizes a wide range of video transmission solutions.
From a professional perspective, they selected yellowbrik not only for its performance, but also for its ease of connection, cooling design, and easy-to-read indicator display, all of which contribute to reducing the burden on their daily work.
Please look forward to the continued expansion of LYNX Technik's product lineup.
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3799-11 Shimonanbata, Fujimi City, Saitama Prefecture 354-0004, Japan Tel: 049-265-5524
LYNX Technik Japan General Agent
Gunsui Co., Ltd.