News

August 16, 2017

Posted in patchbays, Tradeshows


Bittree’s Award-Winning 12G+ Video Patchbays to Make Chinese Debut at BIRTV 2017

Bittree’s Award-Winning 12G+ Video Patchbays to Make Chinese Debut at BIRTV 2017

Next-generation, single-link patching solution to be featured in the IEWC booth (8A58) at influential broadcast industry exhibition

BIRTV Bittree Patchbays

Glendale, CA – August 16, 2017 – Bittree – a leading manufacturer of high-quality audio, video and data patching systems – will showcase their critically-acclaimed single-link 12G+ Mini-WECO Coaxial Video Patchbays at this year’s BIRTV exhibition in Beijing, China. The innovative 12G+ solution, which earned three industry awards upon its unveiling earlier this year, will be featured in the booth (number 8A58) of distribution partner IEWC at the event, which takes place from August 23 to 26.

Extending Bittree’s hallmarks of design excellence and trusted reliability to next-generation video infrastructures, the 12G+ Mini-WECO Coaxial Video Patchbay delivers high-bandwidth performance for SD-SDI, HD-SDI, UHD-SDI, HDR, 4K and 8K single-link video applications. Eliminating the cumbersome quad-link connectivity commonly used for 4K signal transport, Bittree’s 12G+ video patching systems enable reliable handling of 4K over a single 12Gb/s link, dramatically simplifying cabling for studio, master control, A/V system and mobile production deployments while quadrupling the number of channels each unit can handle.

Precision-engineered to exceed the requirements of SMPTE 292M, 424M, ST2081-1 and ST2082-1 technical standards, Bittree’s 12G+ video patchbays offer 75-ohm impedance with low return loss and support data rates up to 48Gb/s. Ringing out at 24GHz, the future-friendly 12G+ Mini-WECO patchbays provide a tremendous amount of clean headroom not only for 4K, but also 8K, HDR and higher-bit rate applications.

“We are excited to share our latest technology with the broadcast community in China at this year’s BIRTV trade show,” said Ari Baron, general manager at Bittree. “For the past 39 years, Bittree has been delivering superior products and customer service to broadcasters large and small, public and private, all across the globe, and China is a key strategic market in further expanding our global reach. Our new 12G+ video patchbays and patch panels deliver tangible workflow and performance benefits while providing customers with an infrastructure platform for their future needs.”

For more information about Bittree and the 12G+ Mini-WECO Coaxial Video Patchbay, please visit www.bittree.com.

Bittree Launches ProStudio Patchbay Series for Pro Audio & Musical Instrument Markets

New product family brings professional patching robustness to prosumer-level price points, starting with industry-first 500 Series model

Glendale, CA – May 24, 2017 – Bittree – a leading manufacturer of high-quality audio, video and data patching systems – has unveiled the new ProStudio series of audio patchbays, aimed at making the company’s renowned quality and robustness affordable to everyone from hobbyist musicians to top-tier studio engineers. The first offering in the new line, the front-programmable ProStudio 4825F, is the first-ever patchbay designed specifically for pairing with transportable 500 Series modular chassis such as the API® Lunchbox®, Rupert Neve Designs R6 and Radial® Six-Pack.

Bittree ProStudio Patchbay - PS4825F

Designed to fit perfectly on portable 500 Series racks or under computer monitors in fixed or temporary installations, the desktop PS4825F ($625.00 MSRP) enables users to easily define and alter their audio signal flow between equipment or around the studio. 

The PS4825F offers 48 TT (bantam) connectors in a 2x24 configuration, with DB25 rear connectors for interfacing with Avid® ProTools® and Tascam® gear. Eschewing the plastic construction typical of many low-cost patchbays, the sturdy PS4825F features a metal front panel rather than breakage-prone phenolic material. The same robust and carefully-engineered design also eliminates the noise associated with lower-end alternatives. 

This meticulous attention to quality extends to the PS4825F’s connectors and components. Solid-gold switching contacts are welded and electrically bonded to the spring leaves, providing superior durability and higher electrical current ratings than competing solutions’ pressed-on foil approach. 

Professional-grade shunts, protected from dust and other elements including EMI and RFI by the PS4825F’s removable front stainless steel designation strips, enable easy reconfiguration of circuit normalling, grounding and bussing. Meanwhile, the designation strips themselves provide ample space for three lines of print, enabling easy labeling and quick identification. 

The PS4825F and other upcoming ProStudio models all build on Bittree’s rich history in the music industry, beginning with the extensive experience of Bittree founder and CEO Glenn Garrard. Starting out by building and maintaining speakers and tape machines for Motown Records in Detroit, he came to the west coast when Berry Gordy Jr. relocated Motown to Los Angeles in 1972. Garrard then worked in television on the Merv Griffin Show, before founding Bittree in 1978. 

“The ProStudio line fills a void in the market for reliable, professional-quality patchbays at sub-$1000 pricing, and we’re excited to make Bittree’s proven product excellence accessible to a wider range of customers,” said Garrard. “The first model, the PS4825F, is the perfect complement to the exceptional flexibility and elegance of 500 Series modules and chassis, delivering the cleanest patching signals possible in a compact, robust and cost-effective package.”

The ProStudio 4825F is available now with further ProStudio models following later this year. For more information, please visit  www.bittree.com.

Bittree’s 4825F compact dimensions (12.5 in. x 7 in. x 2.5 in.) and low weight (5 lbs.) combine with high-quality components to provide the perfect companion for any desktop application. Rack mountable brackets sold separately.  

About Bittree: 

Established in 1978, Bittree is dedicated to offering state-of-the-art patchbays and patch panels that streamline signal routing and troubleshooting in media and entertainment operations of all sizes. The company offers an innovative line of audio, video, and data patchbays for use in broadcasting, postproduction, and pro A/V operations. Tailored for use in the post-production, pro A/V, systems integration, and radio and television broadcasting fields, Bittree’s patching solutions are rigorously tested to ensure long-term functionality and dependability, especially for mission-critical operations and live events. To ensure consistency, performance, and adherence to rigid quality standards, all of the company’s patching products are designed, assembled, and tested in its state-of-the-art facility in Glendale, California. Bittree is an active member of industry trade organizations NAB (National Association of Broadcasters), NAMM (National Association of Music Merchants), and SMPTE (Society of Motion Picture & Television Engineers). For more information, please visit www.bittree.com.

May 18, 2017

Posted in


Bittree 12G+ Video Patchbays Win Trio of Prestigious Industry Accolades

Next-generation, single-link patching solution recognized by engineers and industry experts for innovation, feature set, cost efficiency and performance

Glendale, CA – May 2, 2017 – Bittree – a leading manufacturer of high-quality audio, video and data patching systems – has been honored with three Best of Show Awards from NewBay Media for the company’s new 12G+ Mini-WECO Coaxial Video Patchbay. Reflecting the innovative 12G+ solution’s significance and benefits across multiple professional markets, Bittree was presented with the awards at the 2017 NAB Show from diverse NewBay publications TV Technology (the digital television authority, serving the broadcast, cable, production, post production, business and new media markets), Sound & Video Contractor (the definitive technical resource for A/V integrators, contractors, dealers and consultants), and Government Video (a resource for federal, military, state and local government media professionals).

Extending Bittree’s hallmarks of design excellence and trusted reliability to next-generation video infrastructures, the 12G+ Mini-WECO Coaxial Video Patchbay delivers high-bandwidth performance for SD-SDI, HD-SDI, UHD-SDI, HDR, 4K and 8K single-link video applications. Eliminating the cumbersome quad-link connectivity commonly used for 4K signal transport, Bittree’s 12G+ patching systems enable reliable handling of 4K over a single 12Gb/s link, dramatically simplifying cabling for studio, master control, A/V system and mobile production deployments while quadrupling the number of channels each unit can handle.

Precision-engineered to exceed the requirements of SMPTE 292M, 424M, ST2081-1 and ST2082-1 technical standards, Bittree’s 12G+ patchbays offer 75-ohm impedance with low return loss and support data rates up to 48Gb/s. Ringing out at 24GHz, the future-friendly 12G+ mini-WECO patchbays provide a tremendous amount of clean headroom not only for 4K, but also 8K, HDR and higher-bit rate applications. 

“We designed our 12G+ series to provide industry-leading performance for both the current and future needs of demanding broadcast, production and A/V environments, and we’re thrilled that its advantages have been recognized with these prestigious awards,” said Ari Baron, general manager at Bittree. “Winning three Best of Show Awards is a testament not only to the wide-reaching benefits of our products, but also to the efforts of Bittree’s talented team. I’d like to thank both the NewBay judges and our dedicated employees.”

NewBay’s Best of Show Awards are evaluated by a panel of industry experts and are selected based on innovation, feature set, cost efficiency and performance in serving the industry. Winners receive an award for display and will be featured the corresponding publications. All nominated products, winning or not, are also featured in the special Best of Show Awards Program Guide to be distributed in digital form after the convention.

“The products nominated for the Best of Show program, now in its fourth year, provide an outstanding overview of new technology on the show floor and shine a spotlight on the very best,” said NewBay Broadcast & Video Group Vice President & Group Publisher Eric Trabb.

May 18, 2017

Posted in Press Release


Bittree Appoints Hamlet Stepanian as Operations Manager

Employee of 20-plus years rises in ranks to executive level position, overseeing daily production and operational efficiency improvements

Glendale, CA – May 17, 2017 – Bittree, a leading manufacturer of high-quality audio, video and data patching systems, has promoted longtime employee Hamlet Stepanian to role of Operations Manager, effective immediately. Reporting to General Manager Ari Baron, Hamlet will oversee all production, warehousing, shipping and manufacturing of Bittree products and accessories, with an eye on operational excellence and continuous business improvement. 

Hamlet’s experience with Bittree dates to 1996, beginning on the production assembly line before transitioning to a shipping and receiving role. Over the years, he gained experience in Bittree’s machine shop and furthered his education, attaining his Auto Desk Inventor certification. Through this certification, he quickly gained a reputation internally for his creativity and efficiency with 3D design software.

His professionalism across 3D part design almost immediately translated to a reduction in costs, time and labor associated with Bittree patchbay manufacturing – which meant quicker turnaround times for Bittree customers in the musical instrument, pro audio and broadcast markets.

As Hamlet transitions to the Operations Manager role, he intends to implement new processes that will further accelerate turnaround time, bolster the supply chain, and introduce new efficiencies to the Bittree manufacturing operation that will reduce internal production costs. For example, Hamlet points to eliminating steps in the front and rear panel assembly processes that will reduce production times significantly.

“We’re innovating new 3D parts and developing partnerships that will eliminate several current production steps, and allows us to assemble products in a fraction of the time it takes today,” said Stepanian. “This will far outpace our competition across delivery times, and optimize productivity for our customers.”

In addition to his Auto Desk Inventor certification, Hamlet’s expertise with Fadal CDC machines allows him to implement similarly efficient production strategies in the machine shop, where specialists work with the robust aluminum and phenolic components that strengthen the durability of Bittree patchbays. It is an example of how Hamlet’s long-term experience within Bittree – and his associated continuing education – will bring exceptional value to his new executive-level role.

Working closely with Ari, Hamlet also plans a reorganization of the entire production floor to improve accessibility to parts for his entire operations team.

“Elevating Hamlet to the position of Operations Manager will have an immediate impact on our entire production workflow, with the eventual goal of achieving same-day shipping on many of our products and accessories,” said Baron. “His understanding of the company, and experience in expense reduction and creating leaner manufacturing processes, will be of great value to Bittree and its customer moving forward.”

May 03, 2017

Posted in 12g+, award, awards, Patchbay, video


Bittree 12G+ Video Patchbays Win Trio of Prestigious Industry Accolades at 2017 NAB Show

Next-generation, single-link patching solution recognized by engineers and industry experts for innovation, feature set, cost efficiency and performance

Best patchbay

Glendale, CA – May 2, 2017 – Bittree – a leading manufacturer of high-quality audio, video and data patching systems – has been honored with three Best of Show Awards from NewBay Media for the company’s new 12G+ Mini-WECO Coaxial Video Patchbay. Reflecting the innovative 12G+ solution’s significance and benefits across multiple professional markets, Bittree was presented with the awards at the 2017 NAB Show from diverse NewBay publications TV Technology (the digital television authority, serving the broadcast, cable, production, post production, business and new media markets), Sound & Video Contractor (the definitive technical resource for A/V integrators, contractors, dealers and consultants), and Government Video (a resource for federal, military, state and local government media professionals).

Extending Bittree’s hallmarks of design excellence and trusted reliability to next-generation video infrastructures, the 12G+ Mini-WECO Coaxial Video Patchbay delivers high-bandwidth performance for SD-SDI, HD-SDI, UHD-SDI, HDR, 4K and 8K single-link video applications. Eliminating the cumbersome quad-link connectivity commonly used for 4K signal transport, Bittree’s 12G+ video patching systems enable reliable handling of 4K over a single 12Gb/s link, dramatically simplifying cabling for studio, master control, A/V system and mobile production deployments while quadrupling the number of channels each unit can handle.

Precision-engineered to exceed the requirements of SMPTE 292M, 424M, ST2081-1 and ST2082-1 technical standards, Bittree’s 12G+ video patchbays offer 75-ohm impedance with low return loss and support data rates up to 48Gb/s. Ringing out at 24GHz, the future-friendly 12G+ Mini-WECO patchbays provide a tremendous amount of clean headroom not only for 4K, but also 8K, HDR and higher-bit rate applications.

“We designed our 12G+ series to provide industry-leading performance for both the current and future needs of demanding broadcast, production and A/V environments, and we’re thrilled that its advantages have been recognized with these prestigious awards,” said Ari Baron, general manager at Bittree. “Winning three Best of Show Awards is a testament not only to the wide-reaching benefits of our products, but also to the efforts of Bittree’s talented team. I’d like to thank both the NewBay judges and our dedicated employees.”

NewBay’s Best of Show Awards are evaluated by a panel of industry experts and are selected based on innovation, feature set, cost efficiency and performance in serving the industry. Winners receive an award for display and will be featured the corresponding publications. All nominated products, winning or not, are also featured in the special Best of Show Awards Program Guide to be distributed in digital form after the convention.                                                                        

“The products nominated for the Best of Show program, now in its fourth year, provide an outstanding overview of new technology on the show floor and shine a spotlight on the very best,” said NewBay Broadcast & Video Group Vice President & Group Publisher Eric Trabb.

April 05, 2017

Posted in


Return Loss Chart for Bittree Mini WECo Long and Short 12G+ UHD 4K 8K Jacks

How to read the Return Loss chart for Bittree Mini WECo Long and Short  12G+ UHD 4K 8K Jacks?

SMPTE ST 2082-1 is the standard developed by SMPTE (Society of Motion Pictures and Television Engineers) for the transmission of single link 12 Gbit/s signal on a coaxial cable, with a nominal impedance of 75 ohms.  The SMPTE ST 2082-1 red line on the chart represents the maximum return loss allowed for a component in the transmission path.  This return loss is an accurate way of measuring signal reflections.  Too great of a reflection can result in a complete loss of signal or bit errors.  Ideally, the entirety of the circuit would never exceed the maximum allowable return loss under this SMPTE standard.  The result of this return loss test for the Bittree long jack 1MWNBK/S-L and short jack 1MWNBK/S-S offers assurance and proof that Bittree’s 12G+ jacks perform better than the minimum requirement specified by the SMPTE ST 2082-1 standard.  This means that there is additional headroom for any other imperfections in the circuit path that would cause return loss.  Additionally, Bittree 12G+ jacks perform far beyond the 11.88 GHz clock rate all the way out to 24GHz, allowing 3rd harmonic dissipation.  This test is one of the most accurate ways of certifying high-frequency UHD-SDI jack performance. 

Return Loss Chart for Bittree Mini WECo Long and Short  12G+ UHD 4K 8K Jacks

 

Why Worry about RL? [1]

HD takes us into a world that is less video and more radio frequency (RF). In fact, an uncompressed high-definition video signal (greater than 1500- MHz bandwidth) is more an RF signal than video signal. Therefore, many aspects of transmission line theory now apply to video signals. The bandwidth of a single uncompressed high-definition video picture now exceeds that of a standard multichannel CATV/broadband signal. Further, the bandwidth limit of HD is often higher than the transmitted channel frequency! With such high frequencies, it is evident that new methods of performance verification are essential.

 

What Causes RL?  [2]

Variations in the impedance of a cable produce RL; therefore, anything that affects impedance tolerance affects RL. This includes the basic construction of a video cable, from the size, shape, and make-up of the center conductor; choice and manufacturing of the insulation or dielectric; and choice of shield elements and materials. The jacket print method can also have an effect on return loss. Return loss can also be dramatically affected by the choice of connectors and other passive components, such as feed-through or bulkhead connectors, patch panels, patch cords, and even the connectors attached to the inputs and outputs of equipment. During installation, return loss can be affected by the treatment of the cable. Bend radius and pull strength are often factors overlooked by wiring crews.

 

[1] SMPTE Journal, January 2001. Stephen H. Lampen Martin J. Van Der Burgt Carl W. Dole

[2] SMPTE Journal, January 2001. Stephen H. Lampen Martin J. Van Der Burgt Carl W. Dole                                  

 

 12G 4K 8K Mini WECo Patchbay Jacks

Bittree Long Jack 1MWNBK/S-L and Short Jack 1MWNBK/S-S

12G 4K 8K Mini WECo Patchbay Jacks

 S64T-1MWNBK // 12G+ MINI-WECO (MIDSIZE) VIDEO PATCHBAY, 2X32, 2 RU

March 13, 2017

Posted in Press Release


Bittree to Showcase High-Density Fiber and Copper Keystone Data Patchbays at 2017 NAB Show

Bittree to Showcase High-Density Fiber and Copper Keystone Data Patchbays at 2017 NAB Show

Flush-mount, modular panels bring benefits of company’s highly-regarded video and audio patching solutions to data-centric applications

Patch Panel

Glendale, CA – March 13, 2017 – Supporting the accelerating adoption of data-based systems in broadcast and professional A/V environments, Bittree is bringing a versatile array of flush-mount, high-density, modular keystone panels to the upcoming 2017 NAB Show (April 24-27 in Las Vegas). Available in fiber, copper and mixed configurations with a flexible choice of connection types, the new data patch panels will be demonstrated alongside the company’s latest video and audio patchbay innovations in booth SU6221 at the show.

“From television broadcast facilities to audio recording studios and performing arts centers, today’s media environments are integrating data-centric workflows at a rapid pace, with an increasing need for fiber optic and copper data connectivity beyond their traditional BNC and XLR infrastructures,” said Bryan Carpenter, senior sales consultant at Bittree. “Our high-density, flush-mount data panels provide customers with the same robust build quality and engineering excellence they have come to expect from Bittree’s video and audio solutions, along with innovations such as our unique ground plane design.”

Accommodating inserts with up to a 17mm pitch, Bittree’s space-friendly 1RU data panels deliver the industry’s highest keystone density, offering 1x24 in a single, non-staggered row with plenty of room for the included bar-and-cap front designation strip. Keystone jacks mount flush with the surface of the panel, interfering less during patching than protruding alternatives.

Folded-steel front panel construction is complemented by removable, securely-attached rear lacing bars, while the units’ entire nickel-plated rear panel serves as a ground plane for shielded and bonded applications when used with corresponding modular jacks in copper configurations.

Bittree’s high-density keystone panels support a multitude of connectivity options including ST, LC and SC fiber, plus RJ45 CAT6 and CAT6A punchdown or feed-through, shielded or unshielded adapters. The panels are available in multiple pre-configured models, or can be fully customized with any combination of connectors. Custom configurations can even accommodate both fiber and copper connections in a single panel, ideal for maximizing space efficiency in small-scale deployments.

Fiber-equipped panel configurations support both multi-mode and single-mode fiber applications, and are fully compliant with ANSI/TIA-568-C and UL1863 communications standards. Zirconia (ceramic) alignment sleeves enable compatibility with angle polished cables. LC fiber modules are available in a choice of blue or green, supporting the telecommunications industry’s convention of color-coding connectors to indicate the type of polished fiber behind them.

Four copper connectivity options incorporate nickel-plated phosphor bronze contacts with gold over-plate, and exceed ANSI/TIA-568-C.2 requirements. RJ45-to-RJ45 feed-through and RJ45-to-110 IDC Punchdown interface modules are available in shielded or non-shielded variants.  Shielding provides additional protection from EMI, RFI, and alien crosstalk, which can be problematic in high-density usage situations where many copper lines are in immediate proximity to each other.

Shielded CAT6A punchdown modules are designed to suppress internal magnetic coupling up to a bandwidth of 500MHz and feature a 180-degree jack design that enables tool-less termination within 90 seconds. They incorporate die-cast, nickel-plated, zinc clamshell housings for transferring the shields to the backplane, while the shielded CAT6 feed-through modules use stainless-steel shells with spring clips that mate against RJ45 plugs. Using the modules’ shielding in conjunction with the panels’ advanced design minimizes EMI ingress and outgress while simultaneously increasing channel bandwidth capacity, allowing these products to meet the demanding grounding and bonding requirements of military applications.

Like Bittree’s renowned audio and video products, the high-density data panels leverage the company’s 39 years of proven engineering expertise, and are designed, manufactured, and tested to rigid quality standards in Bittree’s state-of-the-art California plant. To help maximize networking integrity, Bittree can also supply corresponding, high-quality connecting patch cables and termination tooling.

The high-density, flush-mount keystone modular panels are available immediately through the Bittree website and the company’s extensive network of authorized resellers and systems integrators. For more information, please visit www.bittree.com.

About Bittree:
Established in 1978, Bittree is dedicated to offering state-of-the-art patchbays and patch panels that streamline signal routing and troubleshooting in media and entertainment operations of all sizes. The company offers an innovative line of audio, video, and data patchbays for use in broadcasting, postproduction, and pro A/V operations. Tailored for use in the post-production, pro A/V, systems integration, and radio and television broadcasting fields, Bittree’s patching solutions are rigorously tested to ensure long-term functionality and dependability, especially for mission-critical operations and live events. To ensure consistency, performance, and adherence to rigid quality standards, all of the company’s patching products are designed, assembled, and tested in its state-of-the-art facility in Glendale, California. Bittree is an active member of industry trade organizations NAB (National Association of Broadcasters), NAMM (National Association of Music Merchants), and SMPTE (Society of Motion Picture & Television Engineers). For more information, please visit www.bittree.com. 

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