Magewell 4K SDI-to-NDI Converter Supports Live Video-over-IP
Magewell's Pro Convert line-up of standalone hardware devices incorporates traditional video signals into live, IP-based broadcast and AV infrastructures using NewTek's NDI transport standard. The company has released a new Pro Convert SDI 4K Plus encoder into this line that converts SDI input signals of up to 4K Ultra HD resolution into full-bandwidth NDI streams with extremely low latency. The encoder can be used to directly connect SDI-equipped sources to NDI-enabled media networks, devices and applications.
Nick Ma, CEO and chief technology officer at Magewell said, "Video producers who would like to take advantage of the flexibility and efficiency of IP-based production may have significant investments in SDI equipment, such as cameras. Pro Convert SDI 4K Plus can help them to continue using these investments by creating a straightforward, reliable bridge between their existing products and the NDI ecosystem."
The Pro Convert SDI 4K Plus supports video up to 4K at 30 fps with embedded audio over a 6Gbps SDI interface. Automatic input format detection and DHCP-based network configuration makes setting up manually unnecessary. Once the device is connected, the encoder will convert source video automatically at its native resolution and frame rate. An SDI loop-through connection allows the input signal to be sent simultaneously to further displays or equipment without external splitters or routers, so that sources can be used in new IP workflows without disrupting the customer's existing video infrastructure.
For users who want more control over the conversion process and the functionality of the Pro Convert SDI 4K Plus device, a browser-based interface opens access to status monitoring, advanced settings and FPGA-based video processing. Functions such as up/down/cross-conversion, de-interlacing and image adjustments are performed directly within the hardware, reducing unnecessary use of network bandwidth and the CPU to maximize resource availability for other applications in the NDI workflow.
The Pro Convert SDI 4K Plus is very compact and includes functions specific to live production. The device has a 1/4"-20 thread for use with standard camera-mounting accessories, and preview and program tally lights indicate visually when the output NDI stream is being used by another application. A PTZ camera can be connected to the converter and controlled via NDI, while power for the unit can be supplied via Power over Ethernet (PoE) or the included power adapter.
The new 4K SDI model is the second device in the Pro Convert product line, added after the recent Pro Convert HDMI 4K Plus, which can convert HDMI inputs up to 4K at 60fps. Other Pro Convert models, including 1080p60 configurations for users not requiring 4K resolution, are also planned. www.magewell.com
