As the world becomes more connected through technology, your viewers expect high quality live access to news, sporting events, entertainment events, and more. 4K UHD TVs now account for the majority of large screen sales worldwide. With 4K quickly becoming the new norm, broadcasters are facing increased pressure to differentiate and deliver engaging live content for UHD screens. The ability to reliably stream 4K video at very low latency over IP networks, especially over the internet, opens up the possibility for broadcasters to introduce live 4K services while lowering production costs.
Let’s take a look at the top conversations for live 4k and HD production over the internet.
1. HEVC/H.265 Video Compression
Advances in video encoding, especially HEVC, make it possible to stream 4K UHD content over a standard internet connection. HEVC can reduce the size of video streams by up to 50% compared to H.264 (also known as AVC). When broadcasters include HEVC video encoding for remote production workflows, they can keep bandwidths low while sustaining quality levels of streaming for live television production, in both HD and 4K.
2. Low Latency
Latency is an all too common problem for live broadcast production. Too much latency during the start of broadcast contribution will result in higher latency further down the workflow. Similarly, with HD content, broadcast engineers and remote production managers need to guarantee that 4K video encoding latency levels are under half a second or less.
Ideal for 4k and HD streaming, the Sony FS5 offers High Frame Rate (HFR) cache recording at Full HD 10-bit 4:2:2 image quality and a frame rate of up to 240fps. Higher frame rates of 480fps and 960fps are also possible at specific resolutions which allow for the highest quality of live images for your next broadcast event reducing latency so your viewers can enjoy your live streamed broadcast. Additionally, the PANASONIC AW-UE100 4K Robotic Camera, is designed to support high bandwidth NDI for low latency transmission of high-quality 4K 60p video, and SRT for high-quality and stable transmission. Best of all, the AW-UE100 4K is also compatible with 12G-SDI output for use in a wide range of situations, to include live streaming events.
3. 10-bit Color
While 8-bit color may work for standard HD content streaming, 4K UHD requires 10-bit color to support wider color spaces and HDR. If you wish to provide your viewers with the best viewing experience, you need to include the option of switching between 8 or 10-bit pixel depths, as 10-bit color over internet workflows can provide enhanced viewing for both HD and 4K.
The PMW-F55 camera produces thrilling cinematic images, thanks to the full-size 35mm CMOS sensor that renders every scene with extraordinary color, contrast, and ultra-low noise even in the most challenging low-light conditions.
4. 3G to 12G SDI
Although 3G SDI connectors are great for capturing live HD video from HD cameras, your broadcasting needs require more for a 4K experience. For an enhanced broadcast experience you’ll need four 3G SDI connectors or a 12G SDI input. The EVS XT4K Production Server provides the optimal 12G SDI connection. With four 4k connectors, the EVS XT4K production server handles your 4K replay requirements in an ultra-reliable, ultra-fast workflow, from ingest to playout. Ideal for 4k and HD productions alike, the EVS XT4K offers broadcast engineers and remote production managers a highly flexible live production solution. From superfast sports broadcasts to slow-motion replay and multi-channel playback, the EVS XT4K helps to enhance your live streaming capabilities.
5. Secure and Reliable Streaming
The foundation of 4K content is all about delivering a great viewer experience. When 4K stream quality is affected by unreliable internet links, then the viewing experience is compromised. It’s important to reliably stream 4K content using a secure transport protocol when streaming over the internet. Using SRT to encrypt video in the AES-128 and 256-bit standard also ensures valuable content is kept away from prying eyes.
Seven Production Film and Broadcasting
Now more than ever, live production connects the world during evolving global times. Seven Production’s mobile production vehicles empower crews with the solutions and technology they need to enhance story creation by providing access to clear content in real-time. We take pride in providing sports fans and content viewers with access to stunning images and rich action when they aren’t physically able to attend the live-action.
If you have a production or live event coming up, and are interested in learning more about using our mobile production vehicles, contact a member of our team today.
