Altronix EBRIDGE4CR Ethernet over Coax 4-Port Receiver
The Altronix EBRIDGE4CR is a rack-mount Ethernet over Coax (EoC) receiver engineered for security integrators and system designers deploying networked video surveillance over existing coaxial cable infrastructure. This 4-port receiver unit supports 25 Mbps bandwidth per port, enabling simultaneous transmission of composite video alongside Ethernet data on a single coaxial run—eliminating the need for separate cabling runs and reducing installation complexity in retrofit and new-build applications.
Key Features
- 4-Port EoC Reception: Four independent receiver ports, each rated for 25 Mbps throughput, compatible with paired Altronix EoC transceiver units
- Composite Video Pass-Through: Simultaneous analog composite video and Ethernet signal transmission over single coaxial conductor, preserving legacy analog video monitoring capability
- Extended Reach: Supports network extension up to 500 meters over standard coaxial cable, reducing infrastructure investment in long-distance runs
- Dual Power Input: Operates on 24VDC, 56VDC, or 24VAC input voltage, providing flexibility for integration with existing power distribution systems
- Rack-Mount Form Factor: Standard 19-inch rack mounting for centralized receiver deployment in control rooms, server closets, and distribution hubs
- Industry Approvals: UL Listed and CE marked for compliance with North American and European safety and electromagnetic compatibility standards
- Transceiver-Dependent Operation: Requires compatible Altronix EoC transceiver units at remote endpoints for full bidirectional communication
Integration & Deployment Considerations
The EBRIDGE4CR receiver is designed for security systems requiring networked video extension without capital-intensive fiber optic or Cat6A copper deployment. Typical applications include extending IP camera networks to remote building zones, bridging analog and IP video infrastructure during system modernization, and reducing cabling costs in facilities with pre-existing coaxial runs. Each receiver port operates independently, allowing mixed-bandwidth configurations where different camera types or frame rates are supported on separate ports.
Power input flexibility supports both traditional 24VAC alarm/control voltage and higher 56VDC supplies, enabling integration with existing Altronix power supplies and backup power systems. Installers should verify that paired EoC transceiver units are rated for matching voltage and bandwidth requirements, as the EBRIDGE4CR receiver performance is directly dependent on transceiver compatibility and installation quality.
Technical Specifications
Input Voltage: 12/24VDC or 24VAC | Maximum Range: 500 meters | Bandwidth Per Port: 25 Mbps | Ports: 4 independent receiver ports | Video Capability: Composite video pass-through
Eden PhillipsPerspective based on aggregated IP Security Depot and affiliated engineering team experience.
I've evaluated the Altronix EBRIDGE4CR in several coaxial-heavy facilities where fiber or Cat6A upgrade budgets were constrained. This receiver fills a specific but important niche: extending IP video and Ethernet services over existing RG-6 or RG-11 runs while maintaining backward compatibility with analog composite feeds. The 500-meter range is realistic for standard coaxial installation, and the dual voltage input (24VAC/24VDC or 56VDC) makes power integration straightforward.
Technical Highlights:
- Coaxial Efficiency: Multiplexes Ethernet and composite video on single conductor, preserving analog monitoring during IP transition phases
- Port Independence: Each of the 4 ports operates autonomously at 25 Mbps, allowing mixed deployments where different bandwidth demands exist across zones
Deployment Considerations:
- Transceiver pairing is mandatory—verify compatible Altronix EoC transceiver models before ordering to avoid integration delays
- Install in controlled environment (server closet, DIN rail cabinet) to protect receiver circuits from environmental stress
- Plan power input with adequate capacity; 56VDC option preferred for longer runs and higher noise immunity in electrically noisy facilities
The EBRIDGE4CR is a practical solution for integrators managing retrofit projects where coaxial infrastructure is already in place. Bandwidth per port is moderate (25 Mbps supports 1–2 MP cameras at standard frame rates), so match port allocation to camera specs. Solid choice for distributed surveillance networks in multi-building campuses.
