What is it and what is NDI used for?

NDI, or in full Network Device Interface, is a standard TCP/IP protocol. This NDI network protocol is new to the industry of Autocue and/or Teleprompter systems and can be used in virtually any large event. Through NDI, it is unnecessary to connect video equipment via HDMI or SDI.

What is NDI?

NDI is an open-source protocol launched in 2015 by software developer NewTek. The advent of the Network Device Interface caused a small revolution in the world of video production, and in fact, it still does. In fact, previously it was a requirement to physically connect hardware such as cameras, controllers, etc. to other hardware and software. Usually this was done with SDI or HDMI cables, or via USB in the case of a computer or laptop.

This changed with the advent of NDI as a layer on top of the traditional TCP/IP protocol, as with NDI, virtually no (or no) latency or quality loss is experienced. Another big advantage is scalability. NDI sources can be connected to the same network without problems and are automatically recognized by video mixers and NDI decoders and now also our very latest SMV2 autocue monitors. That saves a lot of cables and an ordinary 1Gb data network already suffices.

NDI encoder and NDI decoder

Crucial in use are the NDI encoders and NDI decoders. Netchange offers several encoders and decoders, of which the Magewell and BirdDog products are currently very popular. For example, the BirdDog Studio NDI can be used to convert cameras with only an SDI or HDMI signal to NDI for inclusion in the NDI workflow. More and more hardware is also appearing on the market that has NDI by default.

Are you still using Autocue | Teleprompter monitors with HDMI or SDI? Then it may be wise and absolutely interesting in the long run to switch to an all-IP workflow. Please feel free to contact Studio Eleven Autocue Systems for a personalized consultation in the use of NDI and all supplies.