Audio-Technica OPTIX2-S3-US RF Venue OPTIX Series 3 RF-over-Fiber Antenna Distribution System (2 Pack)

Product Overview

The RF Venue OPTIX Series 3 RF-over-Fiber Antenna Distribution System (OPTIX2-S3-US) is a dual-channel RF-over-fiber solution designed for permanent and touring installations where antenna placement at long distances from the rack is required. By converting UHF and VHF RF signals into optical signals and transmitting them over standard single-mode fiber-optic cable, the OPTIX2-S3 eliminates coaxial cable signal loss entirely, enabling remote antenna placement well beyond the practical limits of RG8X or LMR400. This 2-pack configuration includes two complete OPTIX1-S3 systems — two transmitter modules and two receiver modules — making it ideal for diversity antenna setups or multi-zone wireless microphone systems in auditoriums, houses of worship, and large commercial venues.

Product Description

The OPTIX Series 3 addresses a fundamental challenge in large-venue wireless audio deployment: getting antenna signals from the stage or audience area back to the equipment rack without RF degradation. Traditional coaxial cable introduces significant signal loss at longer runs, especially in the UHF band, and often creates noise and interference issues when routed through conduit alongside other electrical infrastructure. The OPTIX Series 3 converts RF input to a 1310 nm optical signal transmitted over single-mode fiber — a cable type already installed in most commercial buildings as part of network infrastructure.

The system operates across three frequency ranges: 175–213 MHz (VHF high band), 470–698 MHz (UHF television band where most professional wireless operates), and 900–960 MHz (900 MHz ISM band). Maximum RF input power is 0 dBm/1 mW — critical to note for proper system integration. Each module pair (transmitter at the antenna, receiver at the rack) is independently powered via included 12 VDC power supplies. The transmitter module connects via BNC female RF connectors, and fiber connections use ST/UPC optical connectors, compatible with standard commercial fiber patch panels.

This 2-pack (OPTIX2-S3-US) includes two complete OPTIX1-S3 single-channel systems, making it the correct choice for diversity antenna deployments with two antenna legs, or for two separate antenna zones feeding a rack-mount distribution system. The system integrates directly with any RF Venue DISTRO series antenna distributor or any wireless receiver with standard BNC antenna inputs. With an input noise floor of -100 dBm and usable dynamic range of 60 dB, the OPTIX Series 3 maintains the RF signal integrity expected in professional AV installations. Available from Creation Networks with full technical support.

Key Features

• RF-over-Fiber Conversion — Converts RF antenna signals to 1310 nm optical signals for transmission over standard single-mode fiber-optic cable, eliminating coaxial cable distance limits.
• Multi-Band Frequency Support — Operates across 175–213 MHz, 470–698 MHz, and 900–960 MHz, covering VHF high band, UHF TV band, and 900 MHz ISM band wireless systems.
• Virtually No Signal Loss Over Distance — Fiber-optic transmission maintains signal integrity regardless of cable run length, unlike coaxial cable which degrades with distance.
• 60 dB Usable Dynamic Range — Provides -100 dBm input noise floor and -25 dBm maximum usable signal, suitable for professional-grade wireless microphone systems.
• BNC RF Connectors — Compatible with standard BNC female antenna connections used on all major professional wireless microphone systems.
• ST/UPC Optical Connectors — Industry-standard fiber connectors compatible with installed single-mode fiber infrastructure in commercial buildings.
• Wide DC Operating Range — Accepts 5–22 VDC operating voltage with included 12.25 VDC power supplies; transmitter draws ~166 mA, receiver draws ~258 mA.
• Wide Operating Temperature Range — Rated for -25°C to 75°C (-13°F to 167°F), suitable for outdoor equipment enclosures and attic-mounted antenna locations.
• 2-Pack Configuration — Includes two complete single-channel OPTIX1-S3 systems for diversity antenna setups or dual-zone deployments in a single purchase.
• Compact Module Form Factor — Each module measures 138 × 77 × 33 mm (5.4 × 3 × 1.3 inches), sized for rack shelves, cable trays, or custom enclosures.

Typical Applications

• House of worship — remote antenna placement from balcony or ceiling to backstage equipment rack
• Auditorium — long-distance antenna runs where coaxial cable loss would be unacceptable
• Multi-purpose room — fiber infrastructure leveraged for wireless microphone antenna distribution
• Broadcast studio — clean RF distribution over existing structured cabling plant
• Commercial meeting space — enterprise-grade wireless infrastructure with centralized rack equipment
• Government space — long building runs with existing single-mode fiber in conduit
• All-hands room — high-channel-count wireless systems requiring remote antenna placement
• Training room — consistent RF coverage across large spaces without in-room equipment racks

Technical Specifications

Frequently Asked Questions

What fiber cable is required for the OPTIX Series 3?
The system requires 1310 nm single-mode fiber-optic cable with ST/UPC connectors. This fiber type is standard in commercial building infrastructure. Fiber cable is not included with the system.

Does the OPTIX2-S3-US work with any brand of wireless microphone system?
Yes. The OPTIX Series 3 uses standard BNC female RF connectors and is frequency-agnostic within its operating bands (175–213 MHz, 470–698 MHz, 900–960 MHz). It is compatible with wireless systems from Shure, Sennheiser, Audio-Technica, Sony, and other major manufacturers operating in those bands.

What is the maximum RF input power the OPTIX Series 3 can accept?
Maximum RF input power is 0 dBm (1 mW). Exceeding this level will cause clipping and voids the product warranty. Do not connect OPTIX modules to IEM transmitters, IFB transmitters, intercom transmitters, or any other RF transmit device without proper attenuation.

How many antenna channels does the 2-pack cover?
The OPTIX2-S3-US (2-pack) includes two complete single-channel OPTIX1-S3 systems. Each system consists of one transmitter module and one receiver module. The 2-pack is configured for two independent RF-over-fiber antenna paths — suitable for a standard diversity antenna pair or two separate antenna zones.

Can I power the OPTIX modules from an existing 12V distribution system in a rack?
Yes. The modules accept 5–22 VDC, so any regulated DC supply in that range will work. The included power supplies are 12.25 VDC wall adapters. For permanent installations, integrators often use rack-mount DC power distribution systems within this voltage range.

Is the OPTIX Series 3 compatible with RF Venue antenna distribution systems?
Yes. The receiver module outputs standard RF via BNC, making it directly compatible with the RF Venue DISTRO4, DISTRO5 HDR, DISTRO9 HDR, and other antenna distribution systems. The receiver output connects to the antenna input of any distributor or wireless receiver.

What warranty is included?
RF Venue provides a standard product warranty covering manufacturing defects. Note that exceeding maximum RF input power (0 dBm) voids the warranty. Contact Creation Networks for warranty support and replacement units.