In modern television broadcasting and telecom infrastructure, reliable connectivity is non-negotiable. Whether it’s a major live sports event, an outdoor news production, or a high-stakes concert broadcast, signal integrity and system durability are mission-critical. Combining TFS Magnum™ SMPTE with DuraTAC® armored SMPTE 311M hybrid fiber cable offers a solution designed to meet — and exceed — the demanding requirements of professional broadcasting environments. The Magnum™ SMPTE stainless steel connector is fully compatible with LEMO® and CANARE® hybrid fiber connectors and is used in conjunction with SMPTE composite fiber optic cable.
- Hybrid Design for Simplified Infrastructure
The SMPTE 311M standard defines a hybrid fiber-and-copper cable carrying optical data, power, and control signals in a single sheath. This drastically reduces the number of separate runs needed for camera or field equipment connections, streamlining setup and minimizing potential points of failure. In live television production, this translates into faster deployment and reduced crew workload.
- Stainless Steel Armored Protection for Harsh Environments
The DuraTAC® version of SMPTE 311M features a stainless steel armored construction, offering superior resistance to crushing, abrasion, and sharp bends. This makes it ideal for outdoor broadcasting, where cables may be exposed to heavy foot traffic, vehicle movement, or challenging terrain. Broadcasters can operate confidently even in demanding weather conditions, from freezing winter sports venues to dusty motorsport tracks.
- Push-Pull Self-Latching Mechanism
TFS Magnum™ SMPTE connectors employ a push-pull self-latching system that ensures quick, secure mating and prevents accidental disconnection. In live broadcast situations — where every second counts — this design allows operators to make or break connections efficiently without compromising signal integrity. The mechanism also offers excellent resistance to vibration and mechanical stress, which is crucial in mobile production trucks and OB vans.
- Compliance with International Standards
SMPTE 311M with TFS Magnum™ SMPTE connectors is recognized globally as a professional broadcast interconnect, supported by standards from SMPTE (USA), EBU (Europe), and ARIB (Japan). This ensures interoperability with a vast range of existing studio, field, and camera equipment, reducing compatibility issues when working with multiple vendors or international partners.
- Durability for Long-Term Cost Savings
The Stainless Steel armored DuraTAC® fiber cable combined with robust TFS Magnum ™ SMPTE connectors significantly extends the lifespan of the connection system. This not only reduces replacement and repair costs but also minimizes downtime — a critical factor in time-sensitive broadcast environments where equipment failure can mean missed coverage.
- Optimized for Mobile and Remote Broadcasting
Mobile production units, stadium control rooms, and field crews benefit from the cable’s flexibility and ruggedness, enabling quick re-rigging without fear of damage. The armored design resists kinks and retains performance even after repeated deployment and retrieval, making it perfect for high-frequency use in live events.
- Safety and Regulatory Compliance
TFS Magnum™ SMPTE connectors and DuraTAC® SMPTE311M cables meet UL, RoHS, and CE requirements, ensuring they comply with broadcast industry safety and environmental regulations. For network operators, this facilitates easier integration into regulated telecom infrastructures.
- Configurable to Project Requirements
Available in multiple lengths and durable reel configurations, the cable system can be tailored to match specific production needs — from compact studio setups to 250-meter outdoor runs on heavy-duty reels.
Conclusion:
In television broadcasting and telecom networks, the combination of TFS Magnum™ SMPTE connectors with DuraTAC® armored SMPTE 311M cable provides unmatched reliability, durability, and operational efficiency. The hybrid design simplifies infrastructure, the armored build ensures resilience in harsh environments, and the push-pull locking mechanism guarantees secure connections under any conditions. For broadcasters seeking a future-proof, field-ready connectivity solution, this pairing stands out as a proven industry standard.
