The Ocean Matrix OMX-8FWS 8-Port Firewire Switcher is a high quality mechanical eight port switcher for FireWire (IEEE 1394) signals, using six-pin FireWire connectors.

8-Port Firewire Switcher Features:

• Mechanical (Passive) Switching - No power required.
• Transfer Rates - 100, 200, and 400Mbps.
• Desktop Size - Compact size. Two units can be rack mounted side-by-side in a 1U rack space with the optional RK-81 adapter.
• INPUTS/OUTPUTS: 8 FireWireT, 6-pin connectors.
• SWITCHING SYSTEM: Mechanical, break-before-make.
• COMPATIBILITY: Up to 400 Mbps.
• DIMENSIONS: 18.8cm x 10.2cm x 4.4cm (7.4" x 4" x 1.7") W, D, H.
• WEIGHT: 0.70kg (1.55 lbs) approx.
• OPTIONS: Kramer model RK- 81 rack adapter holds two units in one vertical rack space

It is designed for applications requiring a compact desktop unit for routing FireWire signals (Digital Video, Data, etc..) between any two of eight sources or acceptors. The machine allows connection of up to 8 bidirectional sources/acceptors and activation of a link between any pair of machines, allowing for example, simple wiring in small DV production studios. High quality switching components and carefully designed circuits provide excellent isolation between inputs, and make the OMX-8FWS ideal for high speed signals up to 400 MB's. In addition, its unpowered design can be an advantage in applications where various regulatory compliances would otherwise be required.

Note that the OMX-8FWS can only provide one signal path at any given time(one active crosspoint)- it cannot distribute a signal to multiple output simultaneously. The unit switches over the power as well, thus allowing powering of one FireWire device from another one connected to the switcher (for example, powering a hub/distributor from a FireWire card).

Why not buy this 8-Port Firewire Switcher today?