As the broadcast and streaming industries continue their shift from traditional hardware-based workflows to IP-based infrastructure, one device remains critical in bridging the gap: the SDI encoder. If your production workflow still relies on SDI cameras, switchers, or infrastructure — but you need to deliver video over IP — an SDI encoder is your first step toward modernization. But with so many options on the market, how do you choose the right one? Here’s what to look for when evaluating a professional SDI encoder for SDI to IP migration.

Why SDI still matters

Serial Digital Interface (SDI) has been the gold standard for professional video transport in studios and production environments for decades. It’s robust, low-latency, and widely deployed — especially in live production, newsrooms, and sports broadcasting. However, as IP delivery becomes the norm for OTT, streaming, and remote workflows, broadcasters need to convert SDI signals into compressed, streamable formats — while preserving quality and minimizing delay.

What is an SDI encoder?

An SDI encoder takes uncompressed video from an SDI source (camera, switcher, etc.) and encodes it into a compressed format like H.264 or H.265. It then packages that video for delivery over IP using protocols such as SRT, RTMP, HLS, UDP, or RTP. This allows traditional SDI-based systems to integrate with modern IP infrastructure, CDN workflows, and cloud platforms — enabling flexibility, scalability, and remote accessibility.

Key features to look for in a professional SDI encoder

When migrating to IP, not all encoders are created equal. Here are the critical features that define a professional-grade SDI encoder:

1. Video compression support (H.265, H.264, MPEG-2)

The encoder should support modern compression standards:

• H.264 (AVC) for broad compatibility

• H.265 (HEVC) for higher efficiency and lower bandwidth

• MPEG-2 for legacy workflows

H.265 is particularly useful for saving bandwidth in remote production or mobile streaming.

2. Multiple streaming protocols

Choose an encoder that supports a wide range of protocols, including:

• SRT (Secure Reliable Transport) for low-latency and secure delivery

• RTMP for integration with social media platforms

• UDP/RTP for legacy or point-to-point delivery

• HLS/DASH for adaptive streaming to end users

Flexibility here ensures future-proofing and compatibility across platforms.

3. Low latency performance

For live sports, events, or remote contribution, latency is critical. Look for real-time encoders optimized for sub-second delay with features like buffer management, hardware encoding, and fast startup.

4. Audio support and multiple tracks

Ensure the encoder supports AAC, AC-3, or MPEG audio, and ideally offers multiple audio track encoding for multilingual or multi-angle content delivery.

5. Closed captions and accessibility

For compliance with broadcast regulations and accessibility, encoders should support closed captions passthrough or insertion (CEA-608/708).

6. Reliable network and remote management

Look for options like:

• Dual network ports for redundancy

• Web-based configuration and monitoring

• SNMP or API integration for control rooms

These features make your encoder easier to manage remotely — essential for distributed production teams.

How DVEO helps you bridge SDI and IP

At DVEO, we’ve worked with broadcasters, live event producers, and streaming platforms worldwide who are migrating from SDI to IP. That’s why we developed a suite of professional SDI encoders that offer:

- Support for H.265, H.264, and MPEG-2
- Streaming over SRT, RTMP, UDP, HLS, and more
- Low latency and high reliability for live workflows
- Closed captions, multiple audio tracks, and remote control
- Rackmount designs for robust deployment in studios and OB trucks

Whether you're upgrading your production pipeline or building an IP-based delivery network, DVEO's SDI encoders give you the tools to do it smoothly, securely, and efficiently.

Ready to modernize your workflow?

The shift to IP doesn’t mean leaving SDI behind — it means adapting it to fit the future. With the right encoder, your existing equipment becomes part of a scalable, IP-enabled workflow. Book a meeting with our team to explore how DVEO’s SDI encoders can help you transition with confidence.