SCN Hall of Fame 2024: Andrew Cross
By Jennifer P
The blog post “SCN Hall of Fame 2024: Andrew Cross” by Wayne Cavadi for AVNetwork highlights the significant contributions of Andrew Cross, the creator of NDI (Network Device Interface), to the Pro AV industry. Cross, currently at Amazon Web Services (AWS), has an extensive background in the field, having served as CTO and CEO at NewTek, president of global research and development for Vizrt Group, and CEO of Grass Valley.
The post delves into Cross’s early interest in computer graphics, starting at the age of twelve, and his academic journey, earning a degree in computational physics and a Ph.D. in computer vision. His passion for using computers to create images led him to develop innovative tools, including one that simulated camera depth of field.
The article emphasizes Cross’s pivotal role in revolutionizing video production over his 20-year tenure at NewTek. His vision was centered on the belief that real-time video processing using general-purpose computers could democratize video production. The creation of NDI is highlighted as one of Cross’s significant contributions, enabling real-time video processing and transforming the industry.
Interestingly, Cross identifies the early products developed at NewTek as the most consequential, laying the foundation for the democratization of video production. He emphasizes the impact on platforms like YouTube, Facebook, and Twitch, where individuals, sports leagues, and schools can now easily produce and share video content.
The article sheds light on the inception of NDI during Cross’s negotiations on healthcare rates for the company, realizing the inevitability of video moving to IP. Despite his current focus on hiking during spare time, Cross remains dedicated to contemplating the future of the video production revolution. He expresses the importance of loving one’s work and underscores the joy of making great images and enabling students to produce video content with their friends.
Ultimately, the post acknowledges Cross’s profound impact on the Pro AV industry, highlighting his role in changing how humans consume information and perceive the world through the ability to produce and share real-time video.
Read the full article by Wayne Cavadi for AVNetwork HERE
Learn more about NDI HERE