Lightware MX-3GSDI-IB 3G-SDI Input Board - 91120010

Product Overview

The Lightware MX-3GSDI-IB is a 3G-SDI input board for Lightware MX-FR series modular matrix frames, providing native SDI signal ingestion into the MX crosspoint routing matrix without external format conversion. It accepts 3G-SDI signals at rates up to 2.97 Gbps — supporting HD 1080p60, 1080i, and 720p formats — making it the correct input board for broadcast, production, and live event environments where SDI is the native signal format. Systems integrators designing mixed-signal MX-FR frames that must handle SDI sources alongside HDMI and fiber signals will use this board in the SDI-facing input slots.

Product Description

The MX-3GSDI-IB installs into any input slot of a Lightware MX-FR series frame, adding one 3G-SDI BNC input that feeds directly into the frame's crosspoint matrix. Once in the matrix, the SDI signal can be routed to any output board in the frame — including HDMI, TPS, DVI, and fiber output boards — with format conversion handled by the frame's signal processing. Multiple MX-3GSDI-IB boards can be installed in the same frame to aggregate SDI inputs into a single routing matrix alongside other signal types. The board accepts HD-SDI (1.485 Gbps), 3G-SDI (2.97 Gbps), and SD-SDI (270 Mbps) signals, with automatic rate detection per port. Embedded audio in the SDI stream is passed through to the matrix. Control is managed through the MX-FR frame's Ethernet interface using Lightware Device Controller or third-party control systems.

Key Features

• 3G-SDI BNC Input — Accepts 3G-SDI signals at up to 2.97 Gbps, supporting 1080p60, 1080i, and 720p HD formats.
• Automatic Rate Detection — Detects SD-SDI (270 Mbps), HD-SDI (1.485 Gbps), and 3G-SDI (2.97 Gbps) automatically per port.
• Native SDI to MX Matrix — SDI signals enter the MX-FR crosspoint without external conversion, routing directly to any installed output board.
• Mixed-Signal Frame Compatibility — Multiple SDI input boards can coexist in the same frame with HDMI, TPS, DVI, and fiber boards.
• Embedded Audio Pass-Through — SDI-embedded audio is preserved through the matrix routing.
• MX Frame Control Integration — Managed via the frame's Ethernet control port using Lightware Device Controller or RS-232/third-party systems.
• Standard BNC Connector — Uses industry-standard 75-ohm BNC termination for SDI signal connection.

Typical Applications

• Broadcast studio and production facility routing SDI camera feeds into mixed-signal matrix
• Live event and staging company with SDI camera sources and HDMI display outputs
• House of worship with broadcast-quality SDI production integrated into AV distribution
• Corporate AV system receiving broadcast SDI feeds from external sources
• Government facility integrating SDI broadcast feeds into multi-signal control room matrix

Technical Specifications

Competitor Comparison

Frequently Asked Questions

What SDI signal rates does this board support?

The MX-3GSDI-IB automatically detects and supports SD-SDI (270 Mbps), HD-SDI (1.485 Gbps), and 3G-SDI (2.97 Gbps), covering all standard definition through 1080p60 HD formats.

Can SDI inputs be routed to HDMI outputs in the same frame?

Yes. The MX-FR frame handles signal format routing between board types. An SDI input can be switched to any HDMI, TPS, DVI, or fiber output board installed in the same frame.

Does this board support 12G-SDI or 4K-SDI?

No. The MX-3GSDI-IB supports up to 3G-SDI (1080p60). For 4K-SDI requirements, consult Lightware or Creation Networks for appropriate alternatives.

Is embedded audio preserved?

Yes. Audio embedded in the SDI stream is passed through the matrix to the routed output without extraction or re-embedding required.

How many SDI input boards can be installed in one MX-FR9?

Up to nine boards can fill the MX-FR9. The number of SDI input boards is limited only by the total slot count and the desired input-to-output ratio.

Where can I purchase the MX-3GSDI-IB?

Available from Creation Networks at creationnetworks.net, an authorized Lightware reseller.