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SDI Video

SDI (Serial Digital Interface) is a professional video standard designed for high-fidelity, uncompressed digital video transmission. Engineered for the broadcasting industry, SDI enables the transport of video, audio, and metadata over coaxial or fiber-optic cabling with minimal latency and exceptional signal integrity.

What is SDI Video?

SDI (Serial Digital Interface) is a professional video standard designed for high-fidelity, uncompressed digital video transmission. Engineered for the broadcasting industry, SDI enables the transport of video, audio, and metadata over coaxial or fiber-optic cabling with minimal latency and exceptional signal integrity.

Originally defined by the Society of Motion Picture and Television Engineers (SMPTE), SDI supports a range of video formats from standard definition (SD) to ultra-high definition (UHD). Its robustness and plug-and-play functionality make it an essential component of live production, studio environments, and traditional broadcast workflows.

SDI Interface Standards

SDI video technology has evolved to support increasing bandwidth demands, offering multiple interface standards:

  • SD-SDI (270 Mbps): Standard Definition (480i/576i)
  • HD-SDI (1.5 Gbps): High Definition (720p/1080i)
  • 3G-SDI (3 Gbps): Full HD (1080p at 60 fps)
  • 6G-SDI (6 Gbps): Supports 4K video at 30 fps
  • 12G-SDI (12 Gbps): Supports 4K UHD at 60 fps, reducing the need for multiple cables
  • 24G-SDI (24 Gbps): Emerging standard for 8K broadcasting applications

These standardized formats ensure scalability, interoperability, and backward compatibility, allowing broadcasters to upgrade infrastructure seamlessly.

Migration to IP Broadcasting

While SDI remains a cornerstone of broadcast infrastructure, the industry is increasingly transitioning to IP-based workflows. The shift to IP broadcasting offers significant advantages:

  • Scalability: IP-based networks can handle multiple video streams and higher resolutions (4K, 8K).
  • Cost-Effectiveness: Unlike SDI, which requires dedicated cabling for each connection, IP uses shared network infrastructure.
  • Flexibility: IP workflows facilitate remote production, cloud-based media processing, and virtualized environments.
  • Future-Proofing: Standards like SMPTE ST 2110 enable seamless audio, video, and metadata transport over IP networks.

Despite these innovations, SDI remains crucial for real-time, uncompressed video applications where latency and reliability are paramount.

How Nevion Leverages SDI Video

Nevion, a leader in media transport solutions, integrates SDI technology into its cutting-edge broadcast and production ecosystems. Key applications include:

  • Media Gateways: Bridging traditional SDI workflows with IP-based networks.
  • Signal Routing: Ensuring reliable signal transport for live production and studio operations.
  • Workflow Transition: Facilitating a hybrid SDI-IP infrastructure to protect existing investments while embracing modern workflows.

Further Information