According to Erlwin - they are not!...
Have you measured the voltages between earth and the SDI ground?
We have been awaiting more detailed information from the tour to ascertain what is causing this issuse. Until very recently, information has been lacking
I refer to my previous comment:
Hundreds of these cards are operating sucessfully in servers around the world - it seems strange that the cards on your show are having a unique problem - does this not point to a problem with your setup?
HD-SDI Isolating transpformers cost £165 each
4way HD-SDI 3G opto isolators are more expensive at £2498 a pair...
(if anyone knows of any cheaper - do get in touch!!!)
When your solution to fixing the problem includes 'wiggling' the card in the PCI express slot - and 'wiggling' the bnc cables connected to it - im not surprised it failed!
Have you actually tried either of these cards in your setup to qualify this statement?
You may get frustrated that things dont work as expected - these things are highly complicated. Don't blame that manufacturers until you have ruled out all of your own potential problems...
Simon