2014Sled forum
Feasibility of converting standard SD video cabling to HD-SDI in steadicam rigs
12 years old. Gear and prices may have changed since.
What the thread found
- Standard SD video cabling lacks the impedance and shielding characteristics required for HD-SDI transmission
- Attempting to repurpose SD video conductors for HD will result in data packet loss due to inadequate shielding in the existing wiring and solder joints
- Physical space constraints in many rig designs make it impractical to route separate mini-coax cables through existing junction boxes and post structures
- Upgrading to proper HD-SDI requires specialized connectors that need crimping tools and cannot be assembled by end users
- Mini-coax alternatives like Belden 179DT can be routed alongside cable bundles if the rig design allows it, though this requires mechanical modifications such as drilling holes and using heat shrink
- Proper HD upgrades involve replacing junction box components rather than modifying existing video lines
Depends on
- Different rig models have varying physical constraints affecting cable routing feasibility
- One user reported attempting multiple modifications before ultimately purchasing a full HD upgrade instead
- No participant successfully demonstrated a working SD-to-HD conversion using the discussed methods
- The discussion involves older steadicam rig models from around 2014