Altronix EBRIDGE400PCRM Ethernet over Coax 4-Port Receiver Module
Overview
The Altronix EBRIDGE400PCRM is a four-port Ethernet over Coax (EoC) receiver designed for integration into hybrid security and access control installations where existing coaxial cabling infrastructure must be leveraged for data transport. This receiver module operates at 100 Mbps per port and maintains full PoE and PoE+ passthrough capability, enabling powered devices—cameras, access controllers, intercoms, and sensors—to operate over extended coaxial runs without additional power conditioning. The EBRIDGE400PCRM requires a compatible transceiver to function within an EoC system and is UL Listed for commercial and institutional deployment.
Key Features
- 4-Port Configuration: Receiver accepts four independent Ethernet over Coax channels, each delivering independent 100 Mbps throughput
- 100 Mbps Per Port: Sufficient bandwidth for standard IP camera streams, access control panels, intercom systems, and low-to-medium bitrate video applications
- PoE/PoE+ Passthrough: Delivers power to remote equipment without requiring separate power supplies at the receiver; maintains voltage integrity across the coaxial link
- Transceiver-Based Architecture: Compatible with Altronix EoC transceiver modules; system performance depends on matched transceiver selection and proper impedance matching
- UL Listed: Meets UL safety standards for commercial building installation and professional security integrator deployment
- Coaxial Integration: Designed to migrate existing analog and legacy cable plant into IP-capable infrastructure without full rewiring
Integration & Compatibility
The EBRIDGE400PCRM operates as the receiver endpoint in an Ethernet over Coax transmission system. Installation requires a compatible EoC transceiver at the source location and proper termination of the coaxial medium. PoE/PoE+ devices connected to the receiver ports will draw power from the remote transmitter side; verify that the transmitter's power budget accommodates the total connected load. The module is suitable for retrofit installations in facilities with existing coaxial infrastructure serving video surveillance, access control, or building automation systems.
Integrators should confirm coaxial cable condition and impedance before deployment, as signal quality and power delivery depend on proper cable maintenance and grounding practices. The EBRIDGE400PCRM does not support fiber optic connections; it is purpose-built for standard RG-6 or RG-11 coaxial runs.
Typical Applications
- IP camera deployment over existing analog coaxial infrastructure
- Access control system expansion using legacy cable plant
- Intercom and audio system integration in retrofit environments
- Multi-building or campus surveillance where coaxial backbone is established
- Temporary or semi-permanent installations requiring rapid deployment without new conduit runs
Eden PhillipsPerspective based on aggregated IP Security Depot and affiliated engineering team experience.
I've evaluated the Altronix EBRIDGE400PCRM during retrofit planning for several multi-site security projects where running new CAT-6 cabling was prohibitively expensive or logistically impossible. The 4-port receiver module performs well when paired with a matching transmitter and proper coaxial termination. The real value lies in reusing existing coaxial runs—particularly on older campuses or commercial properties where the analog video backbone is already in place.
Technical Highlights:
- 100 Mbps Per Port: Adequate for H.264 and baseline H.265 IP camera streams; verify bitrate requirements before deployment if multiple high-resolution cameras share a single receiver output
- PoE/PoE+ Passthrough: Eliminates the need for midspan injectors at the receiver; power flows from the transmitter through the coaxial link, reducing field installation complexity
- UL Listing: Provides insurance and code compliance documentation for commercial AHJ approval
Deployment Considerations:
- Coaxial cable condition is critical—damaged or poorly terminated runs will degrade signal and PoE delivery; budget for cable inspection and re-termination
- The EBRIDGE400PCRM is receiver-only; you must specify a compatible transmitter module and verify impedance matching across the entire system
- Power budget planning is essential; add up all PoE device wattage on the receiver and confirm the transmitter can supply that load
The EBRIDGE400PCRM is a sound choice for integrators working in retrofit environments where coaxial infrastructure is an asset rather than a liability. Installation is straightforward for experienced technicians familiar with coaxial termination and network testing. Pair it with proper documentation and you'll have a system that leverages legacy plant while meeting modern IP security requirements.
