Introduction to Hybrid Cables in Scout CCTV Crane Camera Systems
Understanding hybrid cable design and usage in legacy Scout CCTV installations
Overview
Legacy Scout CCTV crane camera systems use hybrid cables to connect cameras to the rest of the system. These cables are a key part of older, analogue-based installations and differ from the Ethernet cabling used in newer IP-based camera solutions. This article introduces the concept of hybrid cables, explains why they are used in Scout CCTV systems, and helps users understand their role when maintaining or replacing legacy equipment.
Who this is for
This article is intended for owners and operators of legacy Scout CCTV crane camera systems, procurement and maintenance personnel, and project and engineering teams supporting existing installations. It is not an installation or wiring guide.
What is a hybrid cable?
A hybrid cable combines multiple signal types into a single cable within a single outer sheath. In legacy Scout CCTV crane camera systems, a single hybrid cable typically carries analogue video from the camera via a coaxial core, power supply to the camera, and control or communication signals, commonly RS-485. This design reduces the number of separate cables required between the camera and the control equipment.
Why were hybrid cables used in Scout CCTV systems
Scout CCTV systems were designed for harsh offshore and marine crane environments, where reliability and mechanical durability are critical. Using a hybrid cable allowed fewer cable runs through moving crane structures, simpler routing through booms, jibs, and cable chains, reduced risk of cable damage compared to multiple separate cables, and a single purpose-built cable matched to the system design. This approach was standard for analogue crane camera systems prior to the widespread adoption of IP cameras.
Typical hybrid cable construction
While exact specifications vary by cable type, Scout CCTV hybrid cables generally include one 75 Ω coaxial core for analogue video, one or more power conductors sized for camera supply, one or more twisted pairs for control or data signals, and a robust outer sheath suitable for offshore use. These cables are designed to withstand vibration, movement, oil exposure, and wide temperature ranges commonly found on cranes.
Ordering hybrid cables for legacy Scout CCTV systems
Hybrid cables for legacy Scout CCTV crane camera systems are available in custom lengths. This allows the cable length to be matched to the specific crane configuration, reducing excess cable loops, unnecessary joints or extensions, and installation complexity in moving crane structures. When requesting a hybrid cable, always provide the Scout CCTV system type, the required cable length, and any known cable markings or part references from the existing installation. WISE Group will confirm the correct cable configuration before supply to ensure compatibility with the legacy system.
Hybrid cables and legacy system support
Hybrid cables remain relevant for existing Scout CCTV installations that are still in operation. When maintaining or repairing a legacy system, hybrid cables are often treated as system-specific spare parts; the cable type and core configuration must match the original system design, and substituting non-approved cables can lead to performance or reliability issues. If you are unsure which hybrid cable is required, contact WISE Group with the system details before ordering replacements.
How does this differ from newer IP-based systems?
Newer WISE Group crane camera solutions use IP-based cameras, which typically rely on Ethernet cabling, network switches, and separate power solutions such as PoE or dedicated power cables. Hybrid cables are therefore mainly associated with legacy Scout CCTV analogue systems and are not used in current-generation IP solutions.