MuxLab IMU-500730 - 6G-SDI over Cat.5/6 Extension Kit - Professional 4K Video Transmission
The MuxLab IMU-500730 is a professional video signal extension system designed to overcome the distance limitations of traditional coaxial cabling in broadcast and audiovisual production environments. This transceiver kit allows you to send ultra-high-definition SDI signals (up to 4K at 30Hz ) over a single Cat.5e or Cat.6 UTP network cable, reaching distances of up to 100 meters without any perceptible loss of quality or latency.
What sets this model apart is its exceptional input and output versatility. Thanks to its four BNC-SDI interface, the device adapts to multiple source configurations: it can handle a single native 6G-SDI signal (one cable), two 3G-SDI signals, or combine four HD-SDI signals to create a complete 4K image. This flexibility makes it an indispensable tool for integrating state-of-the-art cameras with remote mixers or monitors in studios, mobile units, and large events.
Designed for demanding field work, the MuxLab 500730 incorporates locking Ethercon connectors to ensure a secure network connection that won't be disconnected by accidental pulls. Furthermore, its Power over Ethernet (PoE) technology simplifies installation by allowing the transmitter to receive power directly from the receiver via the UTP cable itself, eliminating the need for additional power supplies on the camera side.
Main features
-
Multi-Format Capability: Supports flexible input/output configurations: 1x 6G-SDI, 2x 3G-SDI or 4x HD-SDI, adapting to any existing equipment infrastructure.
-
Extended Range: Transmits 6G-SDI signals up to 100 meters. Features an automatic "long range" mode that extends the signal up to 150 meters for HD-SDI or 3G-SDI resolutions.
-
True 4K Support: Handles resolutions up to 4K (3840x2160) and Cinema 4K (4096x2160) at 30 fps, ideal for digital cinema and sports broadcasts.
-
Intelligent Diagnostics: Includes status indicator LEDs for synchronization (Sync), link and power, facilitating quick detection of problems in the signal chain.
-
Synchronization Management: Incorporates dedicated BNC ports for synchronization signal input and output (Sync), vital in multi-camera environments.
-
Control Port: It has a USB interface for field firmware updates and advanced diagnostics.
Benefits for the AV professional
-
Cost and Weight Reduction: Replace heavy and expensive RG59/RG6 coaxial cable reels with Cat.6 UTP cable, which is much cheaper, lighter and easier to deploy in temporary locations.
-
Cleaner Installation: Thanks to PoE power, you only need one plug at the receiver end (control room), leaving the camera area free of additional power adapters.
-
Industrial Reliability: Its rugged metal housing and Ethercon connectors ensure the device can withstand the usual rough handling on tours, outdoor shoots, and equipment rentals.
-
Universal Compatibility: Works with both modern 6G single-link equipment and legacy systems that require Quad-Link (4 cables) to transmit 4K.
Use cases
-
Film and TV Production: Sending video signal from 4K cameras on set to the "Video Village" or director's monitors located at a great distance.
-
Live Events and Mobile Units (OB Vans): Connecting cameras in stadiums or auditoriums with the mobile unit parked outside using existing network infrastructure or lightweight temporary cabling.
-
Fixed Installations and Auditoriums: Video signal distribution in theaters, churches or conference centers where distances exceed 50 meters of standard coaxial cable.
-
Critical Security Systems: Transmission of uncompressed high-resolution video for forensic or medical monitoring where image quality is paramount.
Frequently Asked Questions
-
Do I need to connect power supplies at both ends?
No, the system uses PoE. You only need to connect the included power supply to the receiver (RX). The transmitter (TX) will receive power through the Cat.5e/6 network cable.
-
What type of network cable is recommended?
It is recommended to use solid core shielded (STP) Cat 6 or Cat 6a cable to ensure the maximum distance (100m) and protect the signal against external electromagnetic interference.
-
Can I use it with cameras that only have HD-SDI output?
Yes, the equipment is fully backward compatible. It will automatically detect the signal (HD, 3G, or 6G) and adjust the transmission accordingly. In the case of HD-SDI, the distance can be increased to up to 150 meters.
-
Do the 4 BNC inputs function as a mixer?
No, the four inputs are primarily designed to carry high-bandwidth signals (such as 4K split across four HD-SDI cables) or dual links. It does not function as a standalone video switcher or selector.
Project description
Point-to-point 6G-SDI signal extender kit consisting of a transmitter and receiver. It transmits uncompressed digital video signals up to 4K @ 30Hz resolution over a single Cat.5e/6 UTP cable. The maximum link distance is 100 meters for 6G-SDI and up to 150 meters for 3G/HD-SDI. The system supports single (6G), dual (3G), or quad (Quad-Link HD) SDI input configurations via four 75-ohm BNC interfaces. It includes support for sync signals (Sync In/Out) and an RS-232/USB gateway for control and updates. Network connectivity is provided via a locking Ethercon connector. Power is supplied via unidirectional PoE (Source-to-Sink) with an included 48VDC external power supply for the receiver. It complies with SMPTE standards 292M, 296M, 372M, 424M, and 425M.
