Video SFP Modules

Video SFP Modules

A video SFP module is a small form-factor pluggable, or SFP transceiver. This means they are pluggable modules that transmit and receive signals. To transmit or receive data, it converts electrical pulses into light pulses for fiber. Used to transport high-definition broadcast video signals over long distances without signal degradation between professional production equipment, an SFP is a converter inside a tiny, hot-swappable stick or module, circumventing heavy, expensive external converter boxes and separate power supplies.

Common Types of SFP Modules
Video SFPs can be categorized by the video bandwidth they support, the connector and media type they use, and the direction of signal transmission. Video SFPs are available in formats ranging from 3G-SDI to 12G-SDI and a range of connector types including LC, SC, ST, MPO/MTP fiber, and HD-BNC coaxial interfaces. Options for transceiver modules include transmit and receive ports on a single unit, dual transmitters or dual receivers to maximize port density; it all depends on your system needs.

Plenty of Choices!
Markertek is proud to partner with World-leading manufacturers like Ross Video, AJA Video, NetGear AV, and Camplex to offer incredible solutions designed to support a variety of professional broadcast, production, and AV-over-fiber workflows.

Video SFPs vs Network SFPs
The main difference between a video SFP and a network SFP is the kind of data they process. Network SFPs work with asynchronous IT data packets, while video SFPs are made for continuous, uncompressed broadcast video streams. Even though they look the same and fit into the same slots, their internal designs are quite different. If you send a raw digital video signal over a network SFP, it will often drop the signal, leading to black screens or flickering.

We Are Here to Help!
Markertek Sales Engineers are on call to assist! If you need help finding a compatible video SFP module for your system, give us a call today. We'll help walk you through everything you need to know about video SFP modules!

FAQs

Can I use a standard Network SFP in a broadcast video slot?
Generally, no. While it may physically fit into the slot, standard Network SFPs lack the DC-restoration circuits required to handle video patterns. Using a network SFP will typically result in a dropped signal, screen flickering, or a totally black screen.

Can I use a Video SFP in an IT Network Switch?
In most cases, no. Standard IT network switches are designed for Ethernet-compatible transceivers and Ethernet traffic. Broadcast video SFPs carry SDI signals rather than Ethernet frames, so the switch cannot create a standard network link or switch the video stream unless using specialized IP-video SFPs or gateway conversion modules.

Do video SFPs support hot-swapping?
Yes. Just like network SFPs, video SFPs are completely hot-swappable. You can plug them in or pull them out while the host video equipment is powered on and running, without damaging the device.