Video Cabling¶
This SOP defines the standards and procedures for selecting, handling, deploying, protecting, and resetting video cabling used by Maryland Productions (MP) and Event Revolution (RV). Video signals are sensitive to cable type, length, and handling, and improper cabling is a common source of signal loss and image degradation.
Clean, intentional cable management is essential for reliable video systems.
Purpose¶
Ensure stable, high-quality video signal transmission.
Prevent cable-related signal failures and damage.
Standardize video cable selection, routing, and labeling.
Maintain professional, safe cable layouts.
Extend the service life of MP/RV video cabling assets.
Who This SOP Is For¶
Video technicians
Video leads / V1s
Warehouse staff prepping video cable
Project Managers overseeing video layouts
Authorized freelancers
Anyone deploying or handling video cabling must follow this SOP.
Scope¶
This SOP applies to:
SDI cables (3G, 6G, 12G)
HDMI cables
Fiber optic video cables
DisplayPort and DVI (when used)
Video converters and adapters
Patch cables and jumpers
Power cabling is covered under Power SOPs.
Video Cable Standards¶
Use cable types rated for the required bandwidth.
Observe maximum length specifications.
Use fiber when distance or interference requires it.
Avoid unnecessary adapters and format conversions.
Never force connectors.
Correct cable choice prevents signal loss.
Warehouse Prep¶
Inspect cables for: - Jacket damage - Bent or loose connectors - Kinks or crushed sections
Test cables with known-good signals.
Verify: - Clear length and type labels - Ownership tags (MP / RV)
Coil cables properly using approved methods.
Pack cables by type and length.
Damaged or marginal cables must be removed from service.
Cable Deployment¶
Routing¶
Route video cables away from power when possible.
Avoid sharp bends and tight radii.
Protect cables from foot traffic and lifts.
Maintain service loops at connection points.
Keep cable paths clean and logical.
Good routing prevents intermittent issues.
Strain Relief¶
Provide strain relief at displays, processors, and switchers.
Avoid tension on connectors.
Secure cables to structures when appropriate.
Strain causes signal failure.
Connector Care¶
Keep connectors clean and capped when possible.
Avoid contaminating fiber connectors.
Inspect connectors before mating.
Never hot-plug fiber connections.
Connector damage is often irreversible.
Fiber Optic Cabling¶
Use approved fiber types and lengths.
Avoid sharp bends.
Clean connectors before connection.
Protect fiber from crushing or impact.
Verify polarity and direction.
Fiber requires special care.
Adapters & Converters¶
Minimize the use of adapters.
Verify compatibility and orientation.
Power converters properly.
Label converters clearly.
Adapters are common failure points.
On-Site Monitoring¶
Monitor signals for: - Dropouts - Sparkles - Sync loss
Address issues immediately.
Replace suspect cables promptly.
Video cable issues often worsen during shows.
Strike & Reset¶
Disconnect cables by connector bodies.
Inspect cables during strike.
Coil neatly and consistently.
Separate damaged cables immediately.
Return cables to proper storage.
Strike is the final inspection opportunity.
Handling & Storage¶
Do not drag cables.
Avoid tight or improper coiling.
Store by type and length.
Keep fiber in dedicated storage.
Maintain organized storage locations.
Good handling extends cable lifespan.
Roles & Responsibilities¶
Video Technicians¶
Deploy and handle cables properly.
Maintain clean routing.
Report cable issues immediately.
Video Leads / V1¶
Approve cable layouts.
Enforce cabling standards.
Warehouse Staff¶
Inspect, test, and reset cables.
Maintain labeling and organization.
Remove unsafe cables from service.
Project Managers¶
Support safe and organized cable layouts.
Quality Control¶
No damaged or marginal cables in use.
Correct cable types used.
Routing is clean and safe.
Issues documented post-show.
Video cabling quality affects every image.