Telecast Fiber Systems‘ new TR6442i (CommLink) is a fibre optic transceiver system designed to carry two intercom channels over a single strand of fibre spanning distances of more than 40km – enough for almost all outside broadcast applications, writes David Fox.
“With the explosion in high-definition TV production, fibre has become indispensable for all types of productions because of its light weight and ability to transport high-quality signals without any degradation. Now, producers are looking for fibre solutions that support equipment, such as cameras, microphones, and intercom systems, which are already in place in the operation,” said Steve DeFrancesco, president and general manager of Telecast Fiber Systems.
“We designed the CommLink to fill the gap between the use of short-range copper cables and our high-end Adder II system. Based on several years of research and feedback from SNG, OB, and studio operations around the world, the CommLink is ideal for any operation that requires the rapid deployment of communications systems over long distances.”
The CommLink is claimed to feature “the industry’s most advanced auto-nulling hybrid technology, making it easy to interface to industry-standard party line and matrix-style intercom systems.”
When in two-wire mode, the CommLink will extend two channels of a Clear-Com party-line system or a RTS two-wire intercom system. When no intercom power supply is available, the CommLink transceiver can act as a power supply for up to five intercom belt packs.
In four-wire mode, the system creates a fibre optic connection from a matrix frame to two remote matrix stations, using Clear-Com Matrix Plus, RTS ADAM (Advanced Digital Audio Matrix), Cronus, or Zeus systems. All remote matrix stations are fully functional, with illuminated alphanumeric displays and call signalling.
Alternately, the CommLink system’s auto-nulling hybrid permits simple interconnection of two-wire intercom to four-wire systems. Each end of the system can also act as a stand-alone two-wire-to-four-wire interface, permitting connection of a four-wire intercom matrix to a two-wire intercom system or a series of stand-alone belt packs.
