What is NDI?
NewTek NDI (Network Device Interface) is an open protocol created by NewTek to allow video-compatible products to share video over a local area network. We believe that the future of the video industry will be one in which video is easily and efficiently transferred in IP space and that this vision will largely replace current industry-specific connection formats (HDMI, SDI, and so on) in the production pipeline.
NDI enables multiple video systems to identify and communicate with one another over IP, as well as to encode, transmit, and receive multiple streams of high-quality, low-latency, frame-accurate video, and audio in real-time. This new protocol can benefit any network-connected video device, such as video mixers, graphics systems, capture cards, and a variety of other production devices.
With many video streams on a shared connection, NDI can operate bi-directionally over a local area network. Its encoding algorithm is resolution and frame-rate independent, supporting 4K (and beyond) and up to 16 channels of floating-point audio (and more). Additionally, the protocol includes tools for implementing video access rights, grouping, bi-directional metadata, and IP commands. And its superior performance over standard GigE networks enables facilities to migrate to an incredibly versatile IP video production pipeline without sacrificing existing investments in SDI cameras and infrastructure or incurring costly new high-speed network infrastructure investments.
NewTek NDI Features
- NDI is bi-directional: Unlike one-way dedicated video cabling such as SDI, network connections expect devices to communicate with one another, and NDI is designed to support this capability.
- NDI-enabled production tools are plug-and-play: when NDI is enabled in a device or application, every NDI-aware tool on the same network automatically detects that source.
- NDI technology is multi-functional: NDI technology is more than just media transport; it also includes metadata and two-way communications. For example, PTZ control is now standard, tally information can be exchanged, and an NDI source can know which destinations are viewing it. NDI is also used to control scripted light shows and practical effects in live entertainment, to name a few applications.
- A single NDI source can now serve an unlimited number of destinations, with the only limitation being network infrastructure. Multicast now supplements unicast support, allowing the best mode of operation to be used as needed.
- NDI|HX is Full-resolution, full-frame-rate video is appropriate for low-bandwidth wireless, remote, and large-scale networks.
Sample Workflow or Diagram of NewTek NDI.
NDI Products
NDI Brand
