HYBRID CAMERA SMPTE CABLE: ELECTRICAL + FIBER (SMPTE 311M)

A SMPTE hybrid camera cable: electrical + fiber (SMPTE 311M) is a professional-grade cable used to connect broadcast television cameras to their Camera Control Unit (CCU), combining optical fibers and electrical conductors in a single structure according to the SMPTE 311M standard.

What is the SMPTE 311M standard?
Defined by the Society of Motion Picture and Television Engineers (SMPTE), this standard specifies a hybrid camera cable that includes:
- Two single-mode optical fibers: for HD/4K video transmission, data, and high-speed control signals.
- Electrical conductors: for camera power, tally, intercom, and return signal.
- Auxiliary conductors: for additional control or auxiliary power.
- Central strength member: for mechanical durability (typically an aramid or Kevlar rod).