Blackmagic ATEM Studio Converter 2

The Blackmagic ATEM Studio Converter 2 is designed to receive video signals transmitted over optical fiber and convert them to SDI for integration with video switchers. When paired with the ATEM Camera Converter, this system allows video signals to be transmitted up to 28 miles over fiber optic cables, dramatically exceeding the typical 300-foot limitation of traditional copper HD-SDI cables. This 1 RU unit is typically connected between the video switcher and up to four ATEM Camera Converter units, receiving the fiber signals and converting them to SD/HD-SDI using 10-bit processing.

This system is highly flexible, as the Converter 2 can also function as four independent simultaneous bidirectional SD/HD-SDI to optical converters. It includes essential features for live production, such as a built-in mic input, speaker, and headphone jack to provide talkback audio for communicating with camera operators. Furthermore, the unit passes tally signals embedded in the SDI program stream, supports SD/HD signals, and allows cascading of multiple units when more than four cameras are required for a production.

Product Features in Detail

Ultra-Long Distance Optical Fiber Connectivity

The ATEM Studio Converter 2 utilizes standard single mode optical fiber cable with LC connectors to transmit SD and HD video signals. This technology allows for vastly extended cable runs, supporting distances up to 28 miles (45 km), significantly exceeding the typical several-hundred-foot limit of traditional copper SDI cables.

Integrated Talkback Communication System

The unit features a built-in speaker and mic inputs, along with a headphone jack, for private or loud environments. This enables two-way talkback audio communication with remote camera operators, utilizing audio channels 15 and 16 of the SDI stream. Communication is highly controllable, allowing operators to be selected individually, and controlled via push button or locked open, with mute and un-mute buttons available on the front panel.

Seamless Tally and Program Signal Integration

The Studio Converter 2 acts as a central hub for essential production signals. It efficiently passes SDI Tally signal information embedded in the Program SDI stream back to the cameras. Furthermore, it integrates with ATEM switchers to send the SDI Program signal (PGM feed) to the fiber-connected cameras, providing operators with their on-air status and reference feed.

Cascadable for Scalable Multi-Camera Production

Each ATEM Studio Converter 2 unit connects directly to up to four ATEM Camera Converter units. For larger live productions requiring more inputs, multiple Studio Converter 2 units can be easily cascaded together, allowing the system to scale and communicate with more than four camera operators simultaneously.

High-Quality 10-bit Precision Signal Processing

The unit is equipped with advanced chips that perform 10-bit processing to ensure a clean, high-quality signal. The converters are switchable between SD and HD formats, ensuring compatibility and pristine signal handling regardless of the production standard used.

Four Independent Bidirectional Converters

The Studio Converter 2 features four independent simultaneous SDI to optical and optical to SDI converters within its compact 1 RU chassis. This allows it to function as a versatile signal distribution tool. When used with the ATEM Camera Converter, it can also function as four independent SDI or Fiber to HDMI converters.