Learning About SDI

Learning About SDI
SDI broadcasting systems have been around since the 90s. They have been used to broadcast and create some of
the most popular TV shows. To this day, SDI systems still exist to make video production better. That, and
the SDI camera. Anyone interested in getting an SDI camera and cables should know what they are and how they
work.

What is an SDI Camera?
An SDI camera is a camera that features an SDI video connection. SDI video connections have a locking
connector that can connect an SDI cable to another video device such as a recorder, a production system or a
streaming encoder. SDI cameras can output video using an SDI cable connection.

What does SDI Mean?
SDI stands for Serial Digital Interface and it’s a type of broadcast-quality cable used to connect video
sources such as cameras and televisions to other video devices such as video switchers, production systems
and encoders.The Serial Digital Interface is a sort of cable that’s primary use is to broadcast video from cameras and
TVs to other video devices, like encoders and production systems. This interface has been used for streaming
TV since the 90s and is transmitted through a coaxial cable. One end of the SDI cable is connected to another.

What is an SDI camera used for?
1.SDI cameras are generally used to provide video inputs to production systems. Video producers will use
these SDI camera inputs to create a production which can be recorded or broadcast live. Video production
switchers can be used to switch between multiple SDI camera inputs in order to tell a story and record video
content that’s visually appealing live.

2.An SDI Camera is basically a camera that has an SDI video connection. Streaming systems and recorders can
be connected to the SDI Camera to stream output video (high definition zoom video).

3.The SDI camera is most often used in the television production setting but now they are used for live
streaming projects of all sorts. Producers set up the SDI camera so they can switch between recording or
broadcasting the show live. Many shows use multiple SDI cameras so they can switch back and forth between
the two to tell the show’s story. The cameraman can switch through various SDI inputs to record the best

production possible, and add different angles and perspectives.