Broadcast cameras are now equipped with network ports in addition to or instead of SDI outputs. This significant change reflects the industry's shift towards IP-based infrastructure, replacing traditional SDI routing. This allows for unprecedented control and flexibility in broadcast operations.
For instance, a production team in Atlanta can effortlessly manage cameras in Miami, while a technical director in Los Angeles seamlessly switches between feeds from both locations. A setup that previously required extensive fiber optic cabling and dedicated transmission equipment is now easily managed through standard IP networks using new-generation broadcast cameras.
“The ability to connect system cameras directly to the rest of the broadcast infrastructure via IP networks enables significantly greater flexibility in workflows,” said Klaus Weber, director of product marketing at Grass Valley. “An option integrated into the cameras for data reduction of IP streams allows more efficient use, even across distributed networks.”
Direct IP connectivity integration, such as SMPTE 2110, into broadcast camera systems allows production teams to connect to a wider broadcast infrastructure, opening doors to innovative operational approaches and production models, according to industry experts.
This network efficiency is particularly transformative for remote productions. Weber noted that remote productions “which were previously very difficult and costly to realize, are now realized much more easily and efficiently.”
The adoption of IP integration reflects the evolving needs of broadcast infrastructure. As facilities upgrade their camera systems, manufacturers are seeing increased demand for both uncompressed and compressed IP signal capabilities directly from cameras. IP functionality is becoming a standard consideration in purchasing decisions, even for organizations not yet fully utilizing IP workflows.
“Customers who do not yet use these formats would also like to have support or retrofitting options for these formats when purchasing new cameras,” Weber added.
This IP integration is coupled with other advancements. Recent sensor technology advancements enable UHD resolution with global shutter operation while maintaining the light sensitivity and dynamic range of HD imagers, despite the smaller pixel size in UHD sensors.
“The latest UHD CMOS imagers also support 3x or even 6x refresh rates, it is now possible to use cameras with UHD imagers in almost all HD applications without restrictions, and the oversampling even achieves significantly better HD image quality,” explained Weber.
Format flexibility remains crucial. While the trend leans towards higher resolutions and HDR, implementation varies. Weber highlighted “a clear trend towards 1080p and UHD in combination with HDR operation in the HLG standard.”
For smaller broadcasters, IP-enabled cameras offer new operational capabilities while managing costs. Ken Kobayashi, business manager for remote cameras at Sony, cites auto-tracking PTZ cameras as an example, noting they “provide videos from additional positions without extra burdens on current operators and have the potential to make current operations more efficient with less human interaction.”
Manufacturers anticipate continued expansion of IP integration. Weber predicts “the direct IP connection of cameras to the studio infrastructure will continue to gain popularity, and great flexibility to receive both uncompressed and compressed IP signals directly from the camera will become increasingly important.”
This flexibility extends to format support, with growing demand for UHD resolution even in cost-effective camera systems. HDR and wide color gamut support are becoming standard requirements, even if not immediately implemented.
The evolution of IP-enabled cameras aligns with other broadcast technology advancements, including improved sensor technology, enhanced camera control systems, and emerging AI capabilities. These advancements provide production teams with more creative and operational options while potentially reducing technical complexity and costs.
According to Kobayashi, recent larger CMOS image sensors have evolved in multiple technical areas, including “resolution, the number of frames, sensitivity, wide color gamut and dynamic range.” These improvements in core imaging technology complement the operational benefits of IP integration.
As broadcasters update their systems, IP integration is a key consideration, balancing current needs with future workflow potential.