Broadcast cameras are now equipped with network ports, replacing traditional SDI outputs. This fundamental change reflects the industry's move from SDI to IP-based infrastructure. A production team in Atlanta can now seamlessly control cameras in Miami, a scenario that would have required extensive fiber runs and specialized equipment just five years ago. This is now possible through standard IP networks thanks to 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, such as SMPTE 2110, integrated into cameras allows for new operational approaches and production models. This network efficiency is especially beneficial 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.” This shift reflects broader changes in broadcast infrastructure requirements. Manufacturers see increasing demand for both uncompressed and compressed IP signal capabilities.
“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 coincides with advancements in sensor technology, achieving UHD resolution with global shutter operation while maintaining HD imager light sensitivity and dynamic range. “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 there's a push towards higher resolutions and HDR, implementation varies. Weber noted “a clear trend towards 1080p and UHD in combination with HDR operation in the HLG standard.”
For smaller broadcasters, IP-enabled cameras offer new capabilities while managing costs. Ken Kobayashi, business manager for remote cameras at Sony, highlighted auto-tracking PTZ cameras, 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 includes growing demand for UHD resolution, even in cost-efficient systems. HDR and wide color gamut support are becoming standard.
The evolution of IP-enabled cameras aligns with other advancements, including improved sensor technology, enhanced camera control systems, and emerging AI capabilities. These provide production teams with more creative and operational options, potentially reducing 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 complement the operational benefits of IP integration.
As broadcasters upgrade, IP integration is a key consideration, balancing current and future workflow needs.