MuxLab IMU-500023 - Mini CCTV Balun - Passive Video Transmitter with Coaxial Patch Cord
Optimize your security and video surveillance systems with the MuxLab IMU-500023 , a CCTV Mini Balun specifically designed to simplify cabling in professional environments. This compact device is an essential engineering solution that enables the transmission of a single CCTV video signal (baseband/composite) over Cat 5e or Cat 6 unshielded twisted-pair (UTP) cable, replacing bulky and expensive traditional coaxial cable.
Thanks to its clever design with a flexible coaxial cable (mini coax lead) of approximately 20 cm, the IMU-500023 integrates seamlessly into confined spaces, making it ideal for installation directly inside dome camera housings, junction boxes, or on the back of DVR recorders where space is at a premium. Its passive operation ensures that no external power supply is required, eliminating potential points of failure and simplifying the system's power infrastructure.
The device stands out for its long-distance transmission capability without perceptible image degradation, leveraging existing structured cabling techniques in modern buildings. When used in pairs, this balun ensures precise impedance matching between the 75-ohm (BNC/Camera) and 100-ohm (UTP/Network) environments, protecting the integrity of the video signal against interference and noise.
Main features
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Ultra-compact design with pigtail: Includes a flexible mini coaxial cable that facilitates connection at difficult angles or inside dome camera housings.
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Long-range transmission: Capable of sending color video signals up to 400 meters and black/white signals up to 670 meters using Cat 5e/6 cable.
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Simple connection: It has a screw terminal block for quick and secure fixing of the UTP cable, without the need for complex crimping tools.
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Durable housing: Made of fire-retardant ABS plastic, guaranteeing durability and safety in hidden installations or false ceilings.
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Universal CCTV compatibility: Works with standard analog cameras (NTSC, PAL, SECAM), monitors, multiplexers, and video recorders.
Benefits of the system
Using the MuxLab IMU-500023 transforms the profitability of security projects. By replacing RG59 coaxial cable with UTP (Cat 5/6) cable, the cost per meter of installation and the weight of the infrastructure are drastically reduced. Furthermore, UTP cable is more flexible and easier to route through conduits. The versatility of this balun allows for the reuse of surplus network cabling in offices to transmit video, avoiding unnecessary construction work.
Use cases
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Campus and office surveillance systems: Ideal for extending analog camera signals using existing structured cabling infrastructure between buildings.
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Discreet installations in retail: Its size allows it to be completely hidden inside camera mounts in shops and stores.
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System upgrade: Perfect for replacing deteriorated coaxial cable sections with new UTP without changing the cameras or DVR.
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Educational environments and hospitals: Where it is necessary to pass multiple video signals through a single multi-pair UTP cable bundle to the control room.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does this balun require a power supply?
No, the MuxLab 500023 is a passive device and does not require any external power supply; it uses the video signal itself to operate.
Can I use it for HD camera signals (HDCVI/TVI)?
This model is designed and optimized for standard analog CCTV (CVBS) video signals. Although it can transmit signals, for HD resolutions it is recommended to use specific high-frequency baluns to avoid quality loss.
How many baluns do I need for a camera?
Baluns work in pairs. You will need one unit on the camera side (transmitter) and another unit on the monitor or DVR side (receiver).
What type of network cable is recommended?
It is recommended to use Category 5e or Category 6 solid copper UTP (Unshielded Twisted Pair) cable to achieve the specified maximum distances.
Project description
Passive CCTV video balun designed for transmitting composite video (baseband) signals over unshielded twisted-pair (UTP) Cat5e/6 cable. The device features a male BNC connector mounted on a flexible coaxial patch cable approximately 20 cm long for easy installation in confined spaces and dome housings, and a screw terminal block for connecting the twisted pair. It must support transmission distances of up to 670 m in black and white and operate without an external power supply. The housing is made of flame-retardant ABS plastic, and the device has compact dimensions (58 x 16 x 16 mm).
