Versatile Module Supports Numerous Signal Distribution Options, Delivers New Cost Efficiencies for Fiber Transport Over Any Distance

Harris Broadcast Communications introduces the company’s next-generation of OPTO+™ fiber-optic products at IBC 2012, offering a modular solution that simplifies and expands the way broadcasters transport electrical signals at exceptional quality around fixed and remote broadcast facilities.

The Harris® SFP6800+D, part of the company’s range of 6800+™ core processing solutions, is a simple and flexible processing module that supports up to 60 channels in a 2RU design — offering a best-in class solution for high-density fiber-optic transport. The module can function as a simple fiber transmitter or receiver, supporting both digital and analog signals; and configurations for multiple optical paths. Its versatility extends beyond optical transport, with six small form-factor pluggable (SFP) cages that also support coax, HDMI/DVI, baseband encoding/decoding and more.

The SFP6800+D module raises the bar with an integrated routing feature unlike any competitive solution. The 12×12 router matrix increases distribution options, allowing broadcasters to transport different channels to different destinations as opposed to strict point-to-point connections. The built-in routing capability also supports redundant transport architectures, with signal monitoring and switching from main to backup channels across all six SFP cages. This eliminates the need for additional fiber modules or an external routing system in mission-critical applications.

The SFP6800+D module supports traditional broadcaster requirements for reliable transport of higher bandwidth signals like 3 Gb/s over long distances with no loss. The low-cost Harris solution also gives mobile production trucks and other smaller facilities an affordable option for optical transport over shorter distances. Mobile production trucks especially benefit from the reduced weight of fiber optics compared to electrical wiring, driving down operational costs on the road.

“More broadcasters are turning to fiber-optics for signal transport as the price of glass becomes more competitive than legacy wiring,” said Paul Eisner, vice president, workflow, infrastructure and networking, Harris Broadcast Communications. “This is especially ideal for customers that want to transport signals at 3 Gb/s and higher over any distance with pristine quality. Our new fiber solution provides these benefits and extends capabilities beyond optical transport to ensure that our customers get the most mileage and flexibility out of their installations — with the ability to freely and simply mix varied signals within the same modules.”

Harris further amplifies ease of use through an intuitive, built-in 6800+ web interface that enables quick, simple and centralized management of all SFP6800+D signals. This maintains a consistent monitoring approach for Harris customers using both the SFP6800+D and other 6800+ core processing modules across a common Harris infrastructure.

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About Harris Broadcast Communications
Harris Broadcast Communications offers products, systems and services that provide interoperable workflow solutions for broadcast, cable, satellite and out-of-home networks. The Harris ONE™ solution brings together highly integrated and cost-effective products that enable advanced media workflows for emerging content delivery business models. Additional information about Harris Broadcast Communications is available at www.broadcast.harris.com.