The Powerful Synergy Between NDI and LiveU in Live Broadcasting
By Jennifer P
In this article by Daniel Pisarski for LiveU, the author explores the powerful synergy between NDI (Network Device Interface) and LiveU in the evolving world of live broadcasting. Since NDI’s introduction in 2015, LiveU recognized its potential as a simple, IP-based protocol for local interconnectivity, an essential feature for broadcasters looking to streamline their video transmission workflows. By integrating NDI into its receive servers like the LU2000 and LU4000, LiveU enabled broadcasters to seamlessly inject video contributions from remote locations into IP workflows. Combined with LiveU’s proprietary Reliable Transport (LRT™), broadcasters were able to transmit live content over cellular networks with the added benefits of NDI’s simplicity and efficiency.
The article also highlights the growing influence of NDI across various broadcast environments. Initially popular in Pro-AV, live streaming, and houses of worship, NDI has since made significant inroads into live sports and news broadcasting. The COVID-19 pandemic played a crucial role in accelerating NDI’s adoption, especially within cloud-based workflows where its scalability and remote production capabilities were essential. Despite initial hesitation from larger broadcasters due to concerns over competing protocols like SMPTE, NDI’s evolution to support cloud workflows has led to broader industry acceptance, particularly among big broadcasters now seeking to modernize their systems.
Further, the article examines the appeal of NDI for broadcasters, emphasizing its status as the only widely-adopted, low-latency, lossless protocol suitable for private cloud environments. While alternatives such as JPEG XS are emerging, NDI’s cost-effectiveness, ease of use, and widespread support make it the preferred option for cloud production. As broadcasters increasingly migrate their operations to the cloud, integrating technologies like LiveU’s bonded cellular with NDI interconnect solutions has become vital.
The pandemic also reshaped broadcast workflows, with many broadcasters turning to cloud solutions to adapt to restrictions and limitations. LiveU and NDI played a pivotal role in this transformation by providing a reliable ground-to-cloud video contribution solution and an efficient in-cloud interconnect framework. These innovations allowed broadcasters to continue operating remotely, scaling operations and embracing the flexibility of cloud-based production. This collaboration between LiveU and NDI has not only enhanced broadcasting efficiency but also set the stage for even greater innovation as more broadcasters integrate NDI into their workflows.
Read the full article by Dan Pisarski for LiveU HERE
Learn more about LiveU HERE