Novastar - CVT10-S

The NovaStar CVT10-S is a single-mode fibre-optic converter that forms part of an LED screen’s communications infrastructure rather than its video processing system. Its role is to bridge two types of connection: on the one hand, the Ethernet connections used by control equipment and receiver cards; on the other, a fibre link capable of transmitting this data over a much greater distance. This functionality allows the physical layout of the system to be redesigned without changing the way content is prepared.

The benefits of the CVT10-S become particularly apparent when several network cables need to reach a remote location. Instead of extending each copper link individually from the control room, the various data streams can be bundled together and then transmitted via fibre. Once at its destination, the converter outputs these connections via its Ethernet ports. The number of cables travelling the long distance is thus considerably reduced, whilst local distribution continues to be carried out via a conventional network.

The operation can also be reversed. The ten Ethernet ports can be used to aggregate signals from a system and transmit them via fibre. The CVT10-S can therefore be used as a transmission or reception point, depending on its position within the architecture. Where a processor already has an optical output, a single converter can be used on the side where the data is to be redistributed. With equipment lacking this interface, two units can form a TX/RX pair, providing conversion at both ends of the link.

The optical section comprises two 10G SFP slots fitted with single-mode LC modules supplied with the unit. OPT1 can be used as the main link and OPT2 as a backup channel. As the modules are hot-swappable, maintenance of the optical connection can be carried out directly on the converter. The maximum advertised range is 10 km, which makes it possible to locate a control room, technical area or control point well away from the physical location of the screens.

Nor is the CVT10-S limited to a conventional rack-mounted installation. Its chassis can be laid horizontally or suspended, whilst the accessories supplied allow for a 19" rack configuration. Two units can be combined to occupy 1U, or a single unit can be connected to the supplied connector. This approach allows greater freedom to organise the equipment around the actual setup rather than imposing a single mounting method.