2006Brackets/Widgets forum
Tri-ax jumper cables and adapters for HD camera to truck transmission in remote shoots
20 years old. Gear and prices may have changed since.
What the thread found
- Tri-ax connectors vary in size depending on geographic origin—North American truck systems typically use the same size connectors regardless of supplier, but trucks built overseas may use different sizes altogether.
- Before traveling to a shoot, confirm with truck personnel which tri-ax connector type and size the mobile unit uses, as mismatches can cause communication problems between equipment.
- Fiber cable is often used for HD camera transmission instead of tri-ax, and specialized companies are required to manufacture and repair fiber cables since even minor errors render them non-functional.
- Mini coax jumper cables can substitute for tri-ax in some situations, but only 75 ohm rated products like Belden 9221 should be used to maintain proper signal control.
- Thinner coaxial cables require strain relief at both ends and should be routed carefully to prevent damage, with the camera powered off during cable connections to avoid blowing fuses in the base station.
- The truck crew typically stocks jumper cables and can advise on proper setup for the specific mobile unit being used.
Depends on
- Discussion references primarily North American mobile truck standards; international trucks may have different specifications.
- Fiber cable manufacturing and repair capabilities appear limited to specialized service providers.
- Hot patching (connecting while equipment is powered on) can cause equipment damage and should be avoided.
- Tri-lock connectors used in Europe are incompatible with North American tri-ax systems.