Grass Valley 3400 User Manual

CopperHead 3400 User Guide

M4012-9900-102

24 July 2014

Notices

Copyright & Trademark Notice

Copyright © 2010–2014, Grass Valley. All rights reserved.

Belden, Belden Sending All The Right Signals, and the Belden logo are trademarks or
registered trademarks of Belden Inc. or its affiliated companies in the United States and
other jurisdictions. Grass Valley, CopperHead 3400 are trademarks or registered trademarks
of Grass Valley. Belden Inc., Grass Valley, and other parties may also have trademark rights
in other terms used herein.

Terms and Conditions

Please read the following terms and conditions carefully. By using CopperHead 3400
documentation, you agree to the following terms and conditions.

Grass Valley, a Belden Brand (“Grass Valley”) hereby grants permission and license to owners
of CopperHead 3400 to use their product manuals for their own internal business use.
Manuals for Grass Valley products may not be reproduced or transmitted in any form or by
any means, electronic or mechanical, including photocopying and recording, for any
purpose unless specifically authorized in writing by Grass Valley.

A Grass Valley manual may have been revised to reflect changes made to the product
during its manufacturing life. Thus, different versions of a manual may exist for any given
product. Care should be taken to ensure that one obtains the proper manual version for a
specific product serial number.

Information in this document is subject to change without notice and does not represent a
commitment on the part of Grass Valley.

Warranty information is available in the Support section of the Grass Valley Web site
(www.miranda.com).

Title CopperHead 3400 User Guide

Part Number M4012-9900-102

Revision 24 July 2014

ii

Table of Contents

1 Introduction . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1

About the CopperHead 3400 Fiber Optic Transceiver System . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2

About this User Guide . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3

Product Returns . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3

Safety Information. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4

Optical Fiber Safety. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4

Power Fuses. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4

2 System Overview . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5

Fiber Cable Concepts . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6

Fiber Optic Cable . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6

Fiber Optic Connector Types. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .7

CopperHead 3400 Transceiver System concepts . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .8

Signal paths in the CopperHead 3400 Transceiver System. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9

CopperHead 3400 Transceiver System Components . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .10

Camera Unit Overview. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .10

Base Station Overview . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .10

Transceiver System Additional Components. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .11

3 Component Detailed Description . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13

Camera Unit. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .14

Camera Unit Front Components . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .14

Area A – Connector Panel . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .15

Area B – Camera Mounting Plate . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 15

Area C – Signal/Data Indicators . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 16

Area D - Optical Link Signal Strength Indicator & Power Switch . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 18

Area E – Fan Control Switch and Indicators . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 19

Camera Unit Rear Components . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .20

Area A – Connector Panel . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .21

Area B - Audio/Intercom Connector Panel . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 22

Area C - Intercom Controls . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .22

Area D - Miscellaneous Connectors . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 23

Area E – Fiber Connector . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .23

Area F – Battery Mount . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 24

Base Station . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .25

Base Station Front Panel . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .25

Front Panel Section A – Optical Connector (Optional) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 25

Front Panel Section B – Audio Indicators . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 26

Front Panel Section C – Video/Data Indicators . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 26

Front Panel Section D – Signal Strength Indicators/Setup . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 27

1

Table of Contents

Front Panel Section E – Status/Power Indicators. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 28

Base Station Rear Panel . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .29

Rear Panel Section A - Power & Fiber Connectors (Power Module) . . . . . . . . . . . . . 30

Rear Panel Section A - Internal Power Options . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 31

Rear Panel Section B – Sync/Data/Control Connectors. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 32

Rear Panel Section C – Video/Ethernet Connectors . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 32

Rear Panel Section D – Audio/Intercom Connectors . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 33

Additional CopperHead 3400 Transceiver System Items. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .34

Power Wafer Camera Adaptor . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .34

MPS External Power Wafer Power Supply (requires PowerWafer) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .35

PowerPlus Camera Adaptor . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .36

HDX Power Unit . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .37

HDX-FR-2 – Two Unit HDX Rack Mount . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 37

4 Installing the Transceiver System. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 39

Mounting the CopperHead 3400 Camera Unit to the Camera . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .40

Mounting the Power Wafer Unit to the Camera Unit . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .41

Mounting the PowerPlus Unit to the Camera Unit . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .43

Relocation of the CopperHead 3400 Base Station Fiber connector . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .44

5 Connecting the Transceiver System . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 45

Connections between the Base Station and the Camera Unit. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .46

Tactical Fiber between the Base Station and Camera Unit . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .47

SMPTE Hybrid Fiber between the Base Station (powered) and Camera Unit . .47

SMPTE Hybrid Fiber between Base Station and Camera Unit (Infra. Wiring) . . . . .48

SMPTE Hybrid Fiber between the MPS Power Unit and Camera Unit . . . . . . . . . . .49

SMPTE Hybrid Fiber between the HDX Power Unit and Camera Unit . . . . . . . . . . .50

Connections to the CopperHead 3400 Base Station . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .51

Multi-Pin Cable Assemblies Used with the CopperHead 3400 Base Station. . . . . .51

Connectors into and out of the CopperHead 3400 Base Station . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .52

Connections to the CopperHead 3400 Camera Unit . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .55

Multi-Pin Cable Assemblies Used with the CopperHead 3400 Camera Unit . . . . .56

Connectors into and out of the CopperHead 3400 Camera Unit Back Side . . . . . .56

Connectors into and out of the CopperHead 3400 Camera Unit Front Side . . . . .58

Camera Unit Connection Example. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .59

Camera Unit to Camera Connections. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .59

Camera Unit (Power Adaptor or Battery Facing Side) to Camera Connections . . .60

Camera Unit Audio and Data/Control Connections . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .61

6 Operating the Transceiver System . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 63

Setting-up the CopperHead 3400 Transceiver System. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .64

Powering the System . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .65

Understanding Intercom Usage with the CopperHead 3400. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .66

Audio Control Switches . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 68

Using the Digital Displays. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .69

A Brief Guide to Measurement of Fiber Optic Signal Strength . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .69

The CopperHead 3400 Base Station Digital Display . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .70

2

The CopperHead 3400 Camera Unit Digital Display . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .74

The BASE Rx/DIM accesses the Camera Unit . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .75

Best Practices . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .77

Shutting Down the System . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .77

Troubleshooting . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .78

7 Specifications . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 79

A Connector Pin Assignments . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 84

Base Station Connectors . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .85

Camera Unit Connectors. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .89

Data 1 (Camera Control) Pinout Configurations . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .91

B Multi-Pin Connectors: Suggested Wiring . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 92

Base Station Breakout Data/GPI Cable . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .93

Base Station 25-Pin Audio Input Cable . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .94

Base Station 25-Pin Audio Output Cable. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .95

CopperHead 3400

User Guide

C Available Accessories . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 96

Units and Connectors. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .97

Wider Illustrations . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .98

Adaptors and Plugs. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .99

Wider Illustrations . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 101

Plates, Panels, and Cables . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 102

Available Accessories – Cable Numbers . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 103

Camera Signal Cables. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 103

Base Station Cables. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 103

Base Station Remote Control Panel Cables . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 103

Camera Remote Control Cables . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 104

D Diagrams . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 106

CopperHead 3400 Base Station Front Panel . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 107

CopperHead 3400 Base Station Back Panel . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 107

CopperHead 3400 Camera Unit, Front and Back . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 108

CopperHead 3400 Base Station Controls and Indicators. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 109

Block Diagram. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 110

3

Table of Contents

4

Introduction

This chapter provides high-level information about CopperHead 3400 system.

About the CopperHead 3400 Fiber Optic Transceiver System . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2

Safety Information . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4

1

Introduction

About the CopperHead 3400 Fiber Optic Transceiver System

About the CopperHead 3400 Fiber Optic Transceiver System

The following table lists the various items shipped with a system depending on the
particular configuration.

CopperHead System Type

Item Description Part Code

CopperHead Camera Unit CHG3-CAM

CopperHead Base Station CHG3-BS

AC-to-DC Power Supply ADAP-AC

Panel-Mountable Fiber Extension CH3BFC

Camera Remote cable CHCR

Camera Signal cable CH3CS

Base Station Remote cable CHBR

Power Wafer w/jumper cable CHG3-PW

Eternal Power Wafer Supply CH3-MPS

PowerPlus PWRPLS

HDX Power Supply HDX

Fiber jumper(s) various

Reel or coil of Tactical Fiber CA

Reel or coil of Hybrid Fiber CA

Operations Manual CA

Tactical Fiber
(local power at
camera)

Hybrid Fiber ­Standard Power
(Power Wafer)

Hybrid Fiber ­High Power
(PowerPlus)









No No

No







No

No

No No

No No

No No



No





No

No







No No









Table 1-1: What is shipped with a CopperHead 3400 System

Please consult your packing slip and purchase order to ensure that you have received all of
the expected Grass Valley, a Belden Brand Solutions components.

Inspect all components for scratches and other mechanical damage, and inspect the
electrical connectors for bent or damaged pins and latches. Report any missing or
damaged components to Grass Valley, a Belden Brand (see Product Returns on page 3).

You must use your own video and audio cables to make connections for Video, Tally, Black
Burst/Gen Lock, Base Station monitor, and other ancillary signals and equipment.
Suggestions for these cables are discussed later in this document.

2

Standard

Optional

Leave the protective caps on the optical connectors whenever the fiber is disconnected.

About this User Guide

This CopperHead 3400 can be delivered in a number of configurations depending on the
Power and Battery Mount options selected. This user guide is designed to cover all of the
various options and so not every page in this guide will apply to your specific system.

Throughout this guide a number of informational pointers are used to mark important or
useful information.

Product Returns

In the unlikely event of damage to your CopperHead 3400 during shipping or delivery, take
note of any damage with the delivery or shipping service. If any component does not work
correctly out of the box, please contact Grass Valley, a Belden Brand service (see Contact Us
on page 83).

If the problem cannot be remedied through a service telephone call, you will receive an
RMA (Return of Merchandise Authorization) number. Please note this RMA number inside
and outside of all shipping boxes and on all documentation provided with the items to be
returned.

CopperHead 3400

User Guide

3

Introduction

Safety Information

Safety Information

Optical Fiber Safety

To prevent eye damage, never look directly into the end of the optic fiber while either end
of the system is operating.

Always use cable connector caps when the cables are not connected. This protects the
connector from damage and the unlikely event of exposure to an operating optical link.
Keeping the caps in place when the connectors are not in use will prevent dirt and dust
from entering the connector and degrading the performance of the optical link.

Power Fuses

The CopperHead 3400 Base Station with internal power is equipped with Dual Cartridge
fuses located next to the AC Power receptacle at the left rear of the unit. Refer to Base

Station Connectors on page 85 for specific location information.

NEVER operate the CopperHead 3400 Base Station without properly installed and rated
fuses. Severe electrical and heat damage could result as well as personal injury or death.

The fuses supplied are standard 4 Ampere fuses – 5 x 20mm. Both fuses are in operation at
all times – both the AC Line Hot and the AC Line Neutral are fused.

4

System Overview

This chapter explains the principal concepts and descibes the main components of the
CopperHead 3400.

Fiber Cable Concepts . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6

CopperHead 3400 Transceiver System concepts . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8

Signal paths in the CopperHead 3400 Transceiver System . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9

CopperHead 3400 Transceiver System Components . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10

Transceiver System Additional Components . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11

5

System Overview

Fiber Cable Concepts

Fiber Cable Concepts

Fiber Optics and Fiber Optic Cable are the core technologies at the heart of the Grass Valley
CopperHead 3400 Transceiver System. It provides the ability to multiplex and de-multiplex
a variety of video, audio, and data signals that can be carried over a thin strand of fiber optic
cable for long distances. The theory and operation of Fiber Optics is beyond the scope of
this document, but it explains the different types of Fiber Optic Cables and Fiber Optic
Cable Connectors.

Fiber Optic Cable

Tactical Fiber Cables are extremely strong, lightweight, and rugged cables designed for
“harsh environment” (military and commercial) deployment & retrieval applications.

Fig. 2-1: Tactical Fiber Optic Cable Cross-section

Tactical Fiber cable is heavy duty, Kevlar protected and capable of carrying CopperHead
signals extended distances. The cable can generally withstand a variety of environmental
hazards such as being crushed or run-over. Tactical Fiber can be used in the field mounted
on Portable Fiber Reels in lengths up to 2000 feet.

Hybrid Fiber Cable has the same Fiber Optic characteristics with the addition of copper
cables. This allows the transmission of power through the cable.

Fig. 2-2: Hybrid Fiber Optic Cable Cross-section

Thisincreasesweightandreducesoperatingdistance.HybridFiberCablealsoincludesa
pairofSense/Signalwiresthatallowsystemstodetermineifthereisanopenorshorted
cable.HybridFiberCableisalsolargerindiameterthenTacticalFiberCable.

6

Fiber Optic Connector Types

ST Cable

Connectors

ST Panel

Connectors

ST Panel w/

Molex

OpticalCON

Cable

OpticalCON

Panel

LC Connectors SMPTE 304M

Cable

SMPTE 304M

Panel

MX Expanded

Beam Cable

MX Expanded

Beam Panel

Depending on the type of Fiber Optic Cable used, different Connector types can be
configured. The following table summarizes the various types of connectors typically used
in a CopperHead 3400 configuration and the allowed Fiber Optic Cable usage. Each
connector type is illustrated below.

CopperHead 3400

User Guide

Tactical

ConnectorType

FiberUse

ST Fiber Connectors Yes Not

ST Fiber Connectors

No Not

with Molex Power Plug

Hybrid
FiberUse

Typically

Typically

Camera
UnitUse

Base
StationUse

Notes

No Yes Less Expensive – not as durable as

OpticalCON, SMPTE 304M or MX

No Yes Used with separate Fiber and Power

cables

LC Connectors No No No No Infrastructure and Internal Equipment

Use

SMPTE 304M No Yes (up

Yes Yes

to 95V)

OpticalCON Cable

Ye s Y es Yes Ye s

Connector (Neutrik)

OpticalCON Panel

Yes Yes No No Infrastructure Use Only

Connector (Neutrik)

MX Expanded Beam

Ye s N o Ye s Ye s

Connector

Fig. 2-3: Fiber Optic Connectors

7

System Overview

CopperHead 3400 Transceiver System concepts

CopperHead 3400 Transceiver System concepts

The CopperHead 3400 is a camera video, audio, and data-multiplexing system that is
installed between a portable video camera and its power source. It connects via a single
fiber optic cable to a Base Station in a truck, studio, or other video production setup.

All video, audio, and data usually carried on Triax or multi-core cable is sent, bi-directionally,

over a single lightweight fiber over distances as long as 5 km or more. The CopperHead
3400 is specifically designed to support the use of 3D or Dual-Link camera setups.

The Camera Unit fits between the battery or optional power supply and the camera. The
CopperHead Camera Unit is configured at time of purchase with special interface plates to
accommodate the appropriate camera battery type.

The camera Battery or optional power source attaches to the Camera Unit, which in turn,
attaches to the video camera. Batteries accommodated are Sony V, PAG, and Anton-Bauer.

The CopperHead 3400 consists of two main components:

• The CopperHead 3400 Camera Unit – this unit has two options:

• the battery physical interface system

• the fiber connector

• The CopperHead 3400 Base Station – this unit has three options:

• the power configuration

• the fiber connector

• the intercom module

Typically options are determined at the time of product order and the units are delivered
pre-configured. Options can be field-changed by qualified personnel. This manual
describes each of the possible options.

8

CopperHead 3400

Signal paths in the CopperHead 3400 Transceiver System

The CopperHead 3400 utilizes an optical fiber link between the Base Station and the
Camera Unit to carry all of the required signals necessary for operation of the camera and
associated production equipment. The Camera Unit multiplexes electrical signals from the
camera and other remote sources and converts them to an optical signal for transmission
over the fiber.

Simultaneously, an optical return signal is received at the Camera Unit from the Base
Station, which is then converted to electrical analog information for use by the camera,
camera operator, and auxiliary equipment at the camera location.

User Guide

Fig. 2-4: Base Station to Camera Unit Connection

When the hybrid fiber cable option is used, the link also provides power to the Camera Unit
and the camera itself. Only the single fiber link or hybrid fiber link is required between the
Base Station and the Camera Unit.

9

System Overview

CameraUnitFront

(attachestothecamera)

CameraUnitRear

(attachestothebatteryorpowersupply)

Front Panel

Back Panel

CopperHead 3400 Transceiver System Components

CopperHead 3400 Transceiver System Components

Camera Unit Overview

The actual appearance of your CopperHead 3400 Camera Unit will vary depending on the
battery mount and fiber cable connection options specified at the time of purchase.

Base Station Overview

Fig. 2-6: CopperHead 3400 Base Station Connector, Front and Back Panel

The actual appearance of your CopperHead 3400 Base Station will vary depending on the
fiber cable connection and power options specified at the time of purchase.

Fig. 2-5: Camera Unit, Front and Rear

10

Transceiver System Additional Components

In addition to the CopperHead 3400 Camera Unit and Base Station, the system consists of:

• External Power Supply or Power Cord for the Base Station (depending the unit
configuration)

• Cable Sets as required by your camera and remote controller types to connect the
CopperHead Camera Unit to the camera, and to connect the Base Station to the
optional remote controller

• Hardware kits for rack mounting the Base Station

• Portable fiber reel with fiber per your purchase order

• Optional “Power Wafer” Camera Adaptor with optional external power supply

• Optional “PowerPlus” Camera Adaptor and Power Adaptor

• Optional Universal Camera Control Unit

For additional accessories see Available Accessories on page 96,

Note: You must use your own cables to make connections for Tally, Black Burst/Gen
Lock, Base Station monitor, and other ancillary signals and equipment. See Multi-Pin

Connectors: Suggested Wiring on page 92 for suggestions.

CopperHead 3400

User Guide

11

System Overview

Transceiver System Additional Components

12

Component Detailed Description

This chapter describes in detail each element on the Camera Unit and Base Station of the
CopperHead 3400. Physical installation of the system and system connections and practical
operation are covered in following chapters.

For an overall view of component locations, see the CopperHead 3400 overall diagrams in

CopperHead 3400 Base Station Back Panel on page 107.

Camera Unit . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14

Base Station . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 25

Additional CopperHead 3400 Transceiver System Items . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 34

13

Component Detailed Description

Camera Unit

Camera Unit

Camera Unit Front Components

Fig. 3-1: CopperHead 3400 Camera Unit Front Side

The front side of the Camera Unit has five features:

• A - Connector Panel, see Area A – Connector Panel on page 21

• B - Camera Mounting Plate, see Area B – Camera Mounting Plate on page 15

• C - Signal/Data LED Activity Indicators, see Area C – Signal/Data Indicators on page 16

• D - Digital Status Display & Power Switch, see Area D - Optical Link Signal Strength

Indicator & Power Switch on page 18

• E - Fan Control Switch and Indicators, see Area E – Fan Control Switch and Indicators
on page 19

14

CopperHead 3400

Anton Bauer Camera Mounting Plate

V-Type Camera Mounting Plate

User Guide

Area A – Connector Panel

Fig. 3-2: Connector panel

• 18 - Time Code In (to Base Station): used to provide feed of local camera time code or
for the provision of a master synchronization time code for all other cameras (typically
from Camera 1 and only if not master TC generator at base)

• 19 - Time Code Out (from Base Station): for time code synchronization of multi-camera
productions

• 20- VBS Out 2 (from Base Station): typically used for Genlock/Black Burst from master
synchronizing source

• 21 - VBS Out 3 (from Base Station): typically used for Return Video to camera or for
Prompter feed

For additional information about the signals carried on these connectors, see Signal paths

in the CopperHead 3400 Transceiver System on page 9.

Area B – Camera Mounting Plate

Fig. 3-3: Camera Mounting Plates

15

Component Detailed Description

Camera Unit Front Components

The CopperHead 3400 Camera Unit is shipped with a variety of Battery Mount to camera
types. The Anton Bauer mount and the Sony V-mount are the most common. PAG and
other battery mount systems are available by special order (please contact Grass Valley, a
Belden Brand or your authorized dealer).

Area C – Signal/Data Indicators

The CopperHead 3400 Camera Unit Indicator Panel has a series of LED indicators that
monitor the various signal paths between the Camera Unit and the Base Station.

For signals that remain constant, such as time code and video, the indicator remains
illuminated as a steady Green light. For signals that fluctuate such as audio, the indicator
will reflect the varying signal activity.

If the indicator is not illuminated, either the signal has been lost or it is not in use.

The indicators on the left side of the panel represent the status of signal paths from the
Base Station to the Camera Unit. The indicators on the right side represent the status of
signal paths from the Camera Unit to the Base Station.

16

Fig. 3-4: Camera Unit Indicator Panel LEDs (1)

• 1 - SDI Digital Video Signal: monitors camera SDI Video to Base Station and SDI return
video to the Camera Unit

• 2- VBS 1-3 – Analog Video Signals 1-3:

• VBS 1 is used for Camera monitor video from the Camera Unit to the Base Station
and Return Video to the Base Station from the Camera Unit

• VBS SYNC is used for Genlock (one way from Base Station to Camera)

• VBS PRMT is used for Prompter Feed (one way from Base Station to Camera)

• 3 - Program Audio Channels 1-2: monitors program audio from Camera Unit to Base
Station and return audio from Base Station to Camera Unit

CopperHead 3400

User Guide

Fig. 3-5: Camera Unit Indicator Panel LEDs (2)

• 4 - Data Signal Path Monitors CCU and Data 2: Data 2 is typically used for auxiliary
devices such as Robotic Pan & Tilt Head:

• CCU – used for Camera Control Unit

• Data 1 – used for a serial control device (RS232, 422, 485)

• Data 2 – typically used for auxiliary devices such as Robotic Pan & Tilt Head

• Data 3 – used for a serial control device (RS232, 422, 485)

• 5 - TC – Time Code Signal: Monitors Time Code to Base Station and return from Camera

• 6 - Ethernet Signal: monitors Ethernet to Base Station and return from Camera

• 7 - GPI/Tally Signals 2: monitors GPI/Tally Signal to Base Station and return from
Camera and GPI/Tally Signal 2 to Camera Unit

• 8 - Tally 1 Light: lights up RED when GPI/Tally 1 signal is activated at the Base Stations

• Off when the signal is not present

• On when the signal is present

For information about configuring the use of Tally in your system, see Multi-Pin Connectors:

Suggested Wiring on page 92.

17

Component Detailed Description

Camera Unit Front Components

Area D - Optical Link Signal Strength Indicator & Power Switch

• 9 - Optical Link Indicator: indicates the status of the optical connection from base to
camera and camera to base.

• Green: both the Base Station and camera control unit have optical power within
normal range.

• Red: either the Base Station or camera control unit optical power is not within
normal range.

• 10 - Rx Optical Display (Digital Status Display): the four-character display in one of five
modes. See A Brief Guide to Measurement of Fiber Optic Signal Strength on page 69 for
use of this Digital Status Display.

• 11 - Base Rx/Dim Push Button: Change four-character display mode. Push and release
changes display mode. Push and hold adjusts LED indicator brightness.

• 12 - Power Indicator LED:

• Green indicates power is applied to the camera control unit.

• Blinking Green indicates a Camera Unit error. Refer to DIAG display mode for
details (The CopperHead 3400 Camera Unit Digital Display on page 74).

• 13 - Power On/Off Switch: Toggle switch to enable or disable camera power.

• When used with the high voltage Base Station, this enables or disables camera
power.

• When used with the low voltage Base Station, this turns camera power on and off.

Fig. 3-6: Optical Link Signal Strength Indicator & Power Switch

18

CopperHead 3400

User Guide

Area E – Fan Control Switch and Indicators

Fig. 3-7: Fan Control Switch

• 21 - Fan Control Switch: Push switch selects between four settings:

• AUTO – Fan Speed increases as unit temperature increases

• LOW – Fan Speed set to low speed

• HIGH – Fan Speed set to high speed

• OFF – Fan is turned off (all LED indicators are off when the fan is turned off)

• 22 - AUTO Indicator: Fan is operating in Auto mode and speed increases from ¼ speed
to full speed over a temperature range of 55 degrees centigrade to 70 degrees
centigrade.

• 23 - LOW Indicator: Fan is at ¼ full speed.

• 24 - HIGH Indicator: Fan is at full speed.

Fan Diagnostic Mode

The fan switch allows entry into a LED test mode. Push and hold the FAN switch for about
five seconds and the test will begin. At this point, all of the LEDs will blink indicating that
the fan system is functioning.

High Temperature Warning

If during regular operation (not the diagnostic mode described above) any of LEDs begin to
blink, then the CopperHead 3400 unit has reached a temperature of at least 70 degrees
centigrade. If this occurs, confirm that the fan is working correctly in the unit.

If this high temperature is sustained for any period of time, damage may occur to the
system. The unit should be turned off and allowed to cool before restarting and the unit
should be checked for malfunction as soon as possible.

19

Component Detailed Description

Camera Unit Rear Components

Camera Unit Rear Components

20

Fig. 3-8: CopperHead 3400 Camera Unit Back Side

The rear of the Camera Unit has six features:

• A - Connector Panel: see Area A – Connector Panel on page 21.

• B - Audio/Intercom Connector Panel: see Area B - Audio/Intercom Connector Panel on
page 22.

• C - Audio/Intercom Controls: see Area C - Intercom Controls on page 22.

• D - Misc. Connectors: see Area D - Miscellaneous Connectors on page 23.

• E - Fiber Connector: see Area E – Fiber Connector on page 23.

• F - Battery Mount: see Area F – Battery Mount on page 24.

Area A – Connector Panel

Fig. 3-9: Camera Rear Connector Panl

CopperHead 3400

User Guide

• 9 - 3D – Dual Link SDI Connectors A & B – activity indicators are below each SDI
connector (to Base Station)

• 10 - SD/SDI or HD/SDI Input - to Base Station

• 11 - SD-HD/SDI Digital Video Outputs A & B - from Base Station: these two connectors
output the same signal, using an internal Distribution Amplifier.

•12 - VBS (analog composite video) Input - to Base Station: VBS signal paths typically
carry analog video.

• 13 - VBS (analog composite video) Out - from Base Station

• 14 - Ethernet (10/100Mbs)

• 15 - Power Wafer Connector

For additional information about the signals carried on these connectors, see Signal paths

in the CopperHead 3400 Transceiver System on page 9.

Throughout this document component Key Numbers are coordinated with the overall
system diagrams found in CopperHead 3400 Base Station Back Panel on page 107.

21

Component Detailed Description

Camera Unit Rear Components

Area B - Audio/Intercom Connector Panel

• 3- Intercom Head Set Connector

• 4 - Audio 1 & 2 Output (from Base Station): typically for return audio from the Base
Station

• 5 - Audio 1 Input (Line Level) - (to Base Station): typically for audio program from
camera line outputs

• 6 - Audio 2 Input (Line Level) - (to Base Station): typically for audio program from
camera line outputs

Fig. 3-10: Audio/Intercom Connector Panel

For information on the Audio/Intercom Connector Panel operation, see Understanding

Intercom Usage with the CopperHead 3400 on page 66.

Area C - Intercom Controls

Fig. 3-11: Intercom Controls

• 14 - Intercom 1 Monitor Level Control and Activity Indicator

• 15 - Intercom 2 Monitor Level Control and Activity Indicator

• 16 - Return Program Monitor Level Control and Activity Indicator

• 17 - Intercom & Return Program Output: Mini-phone jack with no microphone
functionality

22

CopperHead 3400

User Guide

• 18 - Sidetone Control

• 19 - Intercom Talk Control

• 20 - Intercom Local/Remote

• LOCAL- Switch 18 is enabled

• REMOTE- Remote Push-to-Talk Switch enabled

For information on the Audio/Intercom Connector Panel operation, see Understanding

Intercom Usage with the CopperHead 3400 on page 66.

Area D - Miscellaneous Connectors

Fig. 3-12: Camera Remote and Production DB1 connectors

• 7 - Camera Remote Connector (for optional Camera Remote Control unit)

nd

• 8 - Production DB15HD Connector for Tally: Intercom Trigger, 2

GPI and Serial

Communication (RS232/422/485)

For information regarding available cables and customer furnished cables, see Available

Accessories on page 96.

Area E – Fiber Connector

The CopperHead 3400 Camera Unit is shipped with one of the three Fiber Connectors
shown in Figure 3-13.

Fig. 3-13: Three types of Fiber Connectors

23

Component Detailed Description

Anton-Bauer Type Battery Mount V-type Battery Mount

Camera Unit Rear Components

• 16A - SMPTE 304M, powered

• 16B - OpticalCON, powered or unpowered

• 16C - MX Expanded Beam, unpowered

Area F – Battery Mount

The CopperHead 3400 Camera Unit is shipped with a variety of Battery Mount to camera
types. The Anton Bauer mount and the Sony V-mount are the most common. PAG and
other battery mount systems are available by special order (please contact Grass Valley, a
Belden Brand (see Contact Us on page 83) or your authorized dealer).

24

Fig. 3-14: Camera Unit Battery Mount

• 1, 2 - Battery release latch