Link Electronics Captioning Bridge & Encoder Upgrade

After a comprehensive upgrade, the CBE-493 emerges as a sophisticated 3GB/HD/SD-SDI Closed Caption Bridge and Encoder, designed to seamlessly integrate into professional broadcasting environments. This advanced unit is engineered to accept 3GB, HD, and SD-SDI transport streams, delivering three precisely encoded closed caption outputs that mirror the format of the input, with the added versatility of one output offering decoded captions.

The CBE-493 stands out with its superior re-clocking capabilities, ensuring that the SDI output eye pattern is exceptionally refined, often surpassing the quality of the original input. This level of performance positions the CBE-493 as a more effective re-clocker than many standard re-clocking Distribution Amplifiers (DA), making it a high-tech choice for those seeking to enhance their broadcast quality.

In terms of captioning functionality, the CBE-493 is adept at bridging captions between streams. It reads caption data from the bridge input video and adeptly inserts it into the encoder input video. The sophisticated transcoding process converts CEA-608 captions to CEA-708 captions, which are then encapsulated into a Caption Data Packet (CDP) and embedded into the encoder output. With three selectable bridge modes, the unit can encode captions from various sources, such as captioners or teleprompters, and then revert to the chosen bridge mode once the captioner is no longer connected.

The CBE-493 also features a GPI remote, referred to as a "Legalizer," which is instrumental in complying with recent FCC mandates regarding caption placement. This function allows broadcasters to adjust caption lines, ensuring they do not obstruct critical on-screen information, such as names or emergency announcements.

Embracing the shift towards IP captioning, the CBE-493 is fully equipped for this modern method, favored for its reliability and the widespread availability of internet connections. The unit boasts four communication ports: two serial RS-232 ports with adjustable baud rates and two ports tunneled to the Ethernet connector, facilitating dual IP caption connections at a single address and enabling the redirection of Ethernet data through its serial ports.

The CBE-493's design allows for continuous operation and control swapping among up to four captioners, an innovative feature for live captioning during extended broadcasts. This state-of-the-art unit is backed by Link Electronics' reputation for producing high-quality audio and video equipment, ensuring that it meets the demands for innovation, high performance, flexibility, and reliability. With Link Electronics' standard 10-year warranty and 24/7 customer support, the CBE-493, affectionately known as "The Bridge," represents a sophisticated and reliable upgrade for any broadcasting setup seeking to advance its captioning capabilities.