What is the difference between MDR and SDR camera link? The difference between ​MDR (Micro-D Ribbon)​​ and ​SDR (Standard Density Ribbon)​​ in CameraLink cables primarily lies in their ​connector types, pin configurations, and usage scenarios. Here’s a detailed breakdown.

(PRUnderground) July 2nd, 2025

What is the difference between MDR and SDR camera link?

The difference between ​MDR (Micro-D Ribbon)​​ and ​SDR (Standard Density Ribbon)​​ in CameraLink cables primarily lies in their ​connector types, pin configurations, and usage scenarios. Here’s a detailed breakdown:

​1. MDR (Micro-D Ribbon) Connector​

​Full Name:​​ Micro-D Ribbon (MDR-26).

Pins:​​ ​26-pin​ (standard for CameraLink).

Design:​​

Compact, high-density connector.

Uses a ​ribbon cable​ with shielded twisted pairs (STP).

Usage:​​

Most common connector for ​standard CameraLink​ (Base/Medium/Full configurations).

Found in industrial cameras (e.g., Basler, FLIR) and frame grabbers.

​Pros:​​

Robust shielding for EMI resistance.

Secure locking mechanism (screws or latches).

Cons:​​

Bulkier than SDR in some cases.

​2. SDR (Standard Density Ribbon) Connector​

Full Name:​​ Standard Density Ribbon (SDR-26).

​Pins:​​ ​26-pin​ (same as MDR, but different physical layout).

​Design:​​

Uses a ​flatter, more flexible ribbon cable.

Less dense than MDR, but still shielded.

Usage:​​

Older CameraLink systems or specific OEM applications.

Less common today (largely replaced by MDR or HD-26).

​Pros:​​

More flexible cable for tight spaces.

Cons:​​

Less robust against EMI compared to MDR.

Rare in modern systems.

​Key Differences Summary​

​Which One Should You Use?​​

​For modern CameraLink systems,​​ ​MDR-26​ is the default choice (better shielding and reliability).

Legacy systems:​​ SDR-26 might appear in older setups, but replacements are often MDR.

HD-26 Alternative:​​ Some newer systems use ​HD-26​ (even higher density than MDR).

​Practical Notes​

​MDR-26 Camera link cable is backward-compatible​ with SDR-26 in pinout, but the physical connectors differ.

Always check your camera/frame grabber specs—most industrial cameras today use MDR.

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About Shenzhen STC Electronic Co., Ltd

STC-CABLE is an industry-leading manufacturer of high-performance cabling and connectivity solutions. Founded in 2008, STC provides end-to-end connectivity solutions serving a variety of markets–including corporate, digital signage, education, healthcare, home theater, and hospitality.

As a professional cable assembly factory, STC brings a complete portfolio of products and solutions including USB 2.0 Cables, USB 3.0 Cables, USB C Cables, Drive Cables, Network Cables & Adapters, Audio & Video Cables, Serial & Parallel Cables, Audio-Video Products, Computer power Cables internal and so on.

Leo Zhang
Sales Manager
leo@stccable.com
Tel: (86) 0755 2321 4701
(86) 134 2285 3610
www.stc-cable.com
STC Electronic (Hong Kong) Co., Limited
Shenzhen STC Electronic Co., LTD

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