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Stagebox high-definition broadcast production technology gains extra reach with high-capacity wireless links from L2Tek

L2-017(A)StageBox-CableFreeL2Tek, a manufacturers’ representative and distributor of components and sub-assemblies for professional video and high-speed communications systems located in Fleet, UK, has announced success in recent broadcast-over-wireless interoperability trials that combined the ground-breaking Stagebox high-definition camera-mounted IP-based broadcast production technology with high-reliability gigabit-capacity ‘CableFree’ wireless equipment.

The main advantage of this combination of technology is that it removes the often-difficult element of physically obtaining high-bandwidth Ethernet IP over the ‘last mile’ to a camera location in an outside broadcast application. Wireless links can therefore save a significant amount of cost and time when compared to leasing lines or digging trenches for cables. The wireless links can be provisioned in minutes on either temporary or permanent structures and on platforms, tripods or even moving vehicles. The interoperable CableFree wireless equipment effectively extends the ‘reach’ of Stagebox and adds a new capability for broadcasters worldwide.

The CableFree family includes high-performance, rugged and reliable solutions that are based on a range of wireless technologies with capacities up to 1.5Gbps full duplex. Three in particular are ideal for broadcast applications: laser-based Free Space Optics is ideal where there is clear line-of-sight up to distances of approximately 2km; radio equipment based on OFDM (orthogonal frequency-division multiplexing) MIMO (multiple-input and multiple-output) technologies are ideal for distances up to 15km and can also operate in point-to-multipoint topologies, mobile platforms and near or non-Line-of-Sight environments, where there are significant disruptions in the transmission path, such as buildings; and microwave-based equipment, which can handle much longer distances of up to 100km or more.

The CableFree family of products, available from Wireless Excellence Ltd, have been deployed in 65 countries since 1997 for many wireless data transmission applications, including the broadcast of high-profile sporting events as well as use in telecoms, corporate, education and government based applications.

“Combining highly robust wireless technology adds a significant capability to StageBox for ‘last-mile’ transmission, saving both cost and time at large outside broadcast operations at major sporting events or other large social and cultural occasions”, said Mark Scott-South, Managing Director at L2Tek. “In addition, these trials with CableFree technology are a further important step in the development of an ecosystem for Stagebox compatible products, now comprising a number of hardware and software developers of broadcast equipment including Bluebell Opticom, Suitcase TV, ARG, Shotoku Broadcast Systems and Quadrus”.

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