Blackmagic Design Camera Fiber Converter

Blackmagic Design Camera Fiber Converter

The Blackmagic Design Camera Fiber Converter is a professional interface that mounts to the back of an URSA Mini or URSA Broadcast camera. It converts the camera's standard connections into a single SMPTE 304 hybrid fiber connection, effectively turning a cinema camera into a full-scale studio camera.

In 2026, this remains the gold standard for long-distance broadcast setups (up to 2 km) where a single cable must carry video, return feeds, tally, talkback, and high-voltage power.

Core Functionality

• SMPTE Hybrid Fiber Connection: Using a standard SMPTE 304 connector, the converter receives 200V of power from the Studio Fiber Converter in the control room. This powers the camera body, the viewfinder, and any attached accessories.

• Massive Signal Throughput:

  • Primary Feed: Sends the 12G-SDI Ultra HD signal from the camera to the control room.

  • Return Feeds: Receives three independent 12G-SDI return feeds. These can be used for Program video, a Teleprompter feed, and a Talent monitor.

• Control & Talkback: Passes all ATEM camera control signals (Iris, Focus, Gain, Color) and provides two channels of broadcast-standard talkback.

Professional Hardware Interface

• On-Body Controls: The side of the converter features dedicated knobs and buttons for talkback volume, allowing the operator to quickly adjust the "Production" and "Engineering" channels.

• Integrated Mounts: The top of the converter includes standard mounting points for attaching the URSA Studio Viewfinder.

• V-Lock Plate: The rear of the unit features a V-Lock mounting plate, allowing you to attach standard accessories or provide a mechanical point for a battery (though the unit is typically powered via the fiber cable).

Input/Output Ports

Technical Specifications

• Distance: Up to 2 km (1.24 miles) using SMPTE 311 hybrid fiber cable.

• Resolution: Supports all standards up to 2160p60.

• Construction: Machined metal design for heavy-duty broadcast environments.

• Power Output: Provides ample power for the camera and up to 45W for additional accessories.

Operational Insight

In 2026, the Camera Fiber Converter is the "bridge" that allows cinema cameras like the URSA Mini Pro 12K to be used in high-end live environments like sports stadiums. The primary advantage is the SMPTE safety system: the unit will only enable high-voltage power after it has confirmed a successful optical handshake, protecting the crew from electrical hazards if a cable is damaged.

Pro Tip: This unit is designed to be "sandwiched" between the camera body and the battery plate. If you are moving from a battery-powered field setup to a fiber-powered studio setup, you will need to unscrew your battery plate, mount this converter, and then re-attach the plate (or use the integrated V-Lock) to the back of the converter.