Joseph Electronics’ Shadow Box Uses Existing SMPTE Camera Cables for Quick A/V Extension

Joseph Electronics (Booth C6948) has added the Shadow Box to its Caddie series of fiber-optic interfaces, providing a convenient A/V interface at any camera position using an existing SMPTE hybrid camera cable. The Shadow Box allows remote camera crews to expand their A/V signal options quickly in situations when the hybrid camera cable is the only cable available.

Shadow Box A/V interface

“Camera crews have to run additional fiber and/or copper cables to camera positions if the A/V requirements exceed what the camera’s I/O features can provide. It’s a time-consuming process that needlessly complicates the shoot and often means added costs for cables and labor,” says President/CEO Yohay Hahamy. “Now crews can simply insert a Shadow Box unit between the hybrid cable-equipped camera and its CCU to increase their A/V options for applications like last-minute standups during sports events. Shadow Box can extend A/V capabilities on the fly — no additional cables required — which adds flexibility and saves time for the crew, and saves money for the whole operation.”

Available in May, the Shadow Box requires two units: one at the truck to provide A/V interface connections and one in the field near the camera. Crews need only add short SMPTE jumper cables on each unit to facilitate camera and truck connections. Power passes through the Shadow Box to the SMPTE-equipped HD camera. Featuring multiple channels of 3G video, IFB, intercom, and audio, the rugged throwdown box is powered via the hybrid copper/fiber cable or locally powered when used with plain single-mode fibers. The system can also be outfitted with a standard Anton-Bauer battery that can act as a fail-safe measure in case of power failure or provide independent operation without a camera.