Can I use a Video distribution amp to distribute word clock?

Although video signals and word clock signals use the same type of BNC connector and cable, Video DAs do not properly distribute word clock signals. In fact, there’s a good chance you can damage your equipment if you use a Video DA for Word Clock distribution. Video DAs are made to work with analog video signal levels, which are typically 1 Vpp, whereas a typical word clock signal runs into the 3.5 Vpp range. Because of word clock’s higher voltage and current requirements, a video DA cannot properly distribute word clock. Video DA’s are also built to filter out all sharp edges and DC voltages, two things that to a low-jitter word clock signal. The result of this is much higher jitter, less stability and possibly even damage to the video DA or other gear. Distribution of word clock signals should always be done with a dedicated word clock distribution amp such as the Aardvark Sync DA.

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