Encoder

UnderstandingEncoders

In remote production, encoders and decoders ensure that video content is efficiently compressed and transmitted over Wide Area Networks (WAN). Encoders and decoders are, available as dedicated hardware, as well as via software-based solutions which are part of modern broadcast workflows.

Low-Latency Video
Cloud-Based Management
Local & Cloud Mode
Team Collaboration
Cloud-based switching
Color Correction Tools

Hive Studio offers a centralized platform for all of your camera sources. With Hive-Linked cameras you can have a one-time link to the Hive to connect and control your camera anytime, anywhere. Hive-linked cameras can be connected to your studio and then every time they boot up they will connect to your studio (no application or additional hardware required).

A decoder performs the inverse function of an encoder; it converts the compressed file back into a video format that can be easily displayed on screens. In remote production, decoders are essential for converting the streamed content back into a high-quality video at the receiving end, be it a broadcast station or a cloud-based platform. For example, an NDI decoder can be used to take an IP based NDI video signal from the network and output HDMI to connect to an LCD monitor display.

For remote production, it's important to think about bandwidth. Each camera that you stream to a remote location will require upload and download speeds. You can use cameras that are compatible with cloud-based streaming technologies such as Hive-Linked camera. Cameras with built-in encoders that can directly stream encoded video to many destinations via SRT, RTSP, and RTMP. PTZOptics Move SE and Move 4K cameras reduce the need for additional hardware because they can connect directly to PTZOptics Hive, simplifying the setup and enhancing the efficiency of remote productions.

Latency is a critical factor in live remote production, especially when interaction or real-time reaction is involved (e.g., live interviews, sports, remote camera control or live audience engagement). Cameras and encoders with low-latency capabilities are essential to minimize the delay between the live action and what the viewers see, thus maintaining the real-time experience of the broadcast. If you are using multiple cameras, you should set them at similar bit-rates and stream settings such as (CBR).

Lowering the stream's bitrate may be necessary when dealing with limited bandwidth or when broadcasting to viewers with lower-quality internet connections. For example, in live webinars with less dynamic visual content, like slide presentations or talking heads, reducing the bitrate can still provide a clear image while conserving bandwidth and improving accessibility for viewers with slower connections.

VBR and CBR are two different settings for encoding video streams: Variable Bit Rate (VBR) allows the bitrate to fluctuate based on the complexity of the video frame, which can enhance video quality during complex scenes but reduce bitrate during simpler segments. This setting is suitable when video quality is prioritized over bandwidth consistency. Constant Bit Rate (CBR) maintains a consistent bitrate throughout the broadcast, which helps in environments with strict bandwidth limitations by simplifying network planning and reducing the likelihood of buffering. This is ideal for ensuring a smooth viewer experience in constrained network conditions.

For live broadcasts, such as sports events or concerts, it is critical to use efficient hardware or software encoders. These encoders need to quickly process and compress video feeds, handling high-quality streams while minimizing latency. This ensures the broadcast remains as close to real-time as possible, preserving the immediacy and fluidity of the event and preventing disruptions in the viewer experience.

Remote Video Production | Cloud-Based Software — Team Collaboration - One Cloud Studio

Cloud Switching & Cloud Cam Control (1) — Cloud Switching & Cloud Cam Control

Remote production offers the flexibility to manage video from any location, combining the convenience of working from home with the power of advanced technology like NDI, PTZ cameras and cloud recording.

Explore the Possibilities

Our AV experts are here to help every step of the way — even if you’re not quite sure where to start.

Live Production Technology

Encoding & Decoding Audio/Video

Hardware vs Software

Traditionally, dedicated hardware was used for encoding and decoding video due to its reliability and efficiency. However, as software technology has advanced, many of these processes have transitioned to software solutions, either on-premise or in the cloud.

Centralized Control
Manage Multiple Studios
Team Collaboration

Cloud-Based Decoding

Many remote production setups now leverage cloud services for decoding tasks, allowing for transcoding to browser-based formats such as WebRTC or WHIP. This simplifies the process for decision-makers who need access to live feeds without complex setups.

Link cameras directly to your Hive Studio
No need for additional hardware
Remotely control from anywhere
Manage everything in your browser

Cameras with Built-In Encoding

PTZOptics cameras come equipped built-in encoding capabilities to stream video via protocols like SRT or RTMP directly from the camera, significantly simplifying the encoding process.

Live stream anywhere
Control your camera from anywhere
Output NDI video on the far end
Mix multiple cameras together in a single live stream

Cameras

Computer

Producer

Camera Operator

Audio Mixer

Example Encoder Workflow

Cameras – Each camera features a built-in encoder capable of sending video directly to Hive. PTZOptics cameras can output video over IP with NDI, SRT, RTSP and ONVIF.

Computer – This computer running Hive is a software encoder and decoder for a variety of IP video workflows. This computer is connected to an audio mixer which is connected for remote production

Team Roles

Producer – Remote Producers are capable of PTZ camera control, color correction, and making image adjustments (such as Iris, shutter speed, and gain). Remote producers cannot access admin functions such as adding new users or deleting existing users.

Camera Operator – Camera Operators are able to remotely control unique settings for each camera connected to Hive. Camera Operators have access to PTZ camera movement tools and can control pan, tilt and zoom movements with their keyboard and mouse OR a USB connected Xbox controller.

Audio Mixer – Audio mixing can be done remotely or on-site. Remote audio mixing can be done through the browser-based interface.

Getting Started

Linked to Cloudworkflow

Hive-Linked cameras can connect directly to cloud-based remote production software, providing a streamlined workflow from camera to cloud. This setup not only offers high-quality video but also includes real-time PTZ control.

Customize for your Production

Connect your cameras, and control them from any web-browser securely
Award-winning Support

The award-winning PTZOptics Team is here to support your next project.
Manage Multiple Studios

Connect as many studios as you need and manage all your locations in one dashboard.
Restreaming

Stream to multple destinations with support for transcoding into the formats you need

PTZOptics Cameras for Remote Production.

Explore the pinnacle of remote production technology with PTZOptics Move SE and Move 4K cameras. These cameras are designed to integrate seamlessly with PTZOptics Hive, enhancing remote production capabilities by allowing global control without the need for local computers. Ideal for any production scenario, these cameras offer high-quality video and flexible deployment options to meet diverse production demands.

Hive-Linked Integration
PoE and Network Connectivity
Remote PTZ Control
1080p & 4K Models
Auto-Tracking

Linking a PTZOptics camera to the Hive is easy. You can log-in to the web-interface and select the tab for "Hive". Here you can Link your Device by logging into your Hive account and choosing the studio you would like the camera to be connected to.

Yes, you can connect other PTZ cameras to Hive. Hive supports over 400 PTZ cameras with unique drivers. These unique drivers allow for detailed control over PTZ, image settings and more. Hive also supports generic drivers with less capabilities but will support standards such as SONY Visca. You can connect non-PTZOptics cameras to Hive but you wlll need to use the free Hive software as shown in the diagram.

Depending on your plan Hive will support auto-tracking in the cloud. Hive auto-tracking features "Click to Track" technology which makes it very easy to choose your auto-tracking subject. PTZOptics cameras feature built-in auto-tracking which does not require the cloud and will reduce your overall cloud usage.

PTZOptics Hive supports most USB connected cameras which include HDMI and SDI cameras connected with a capture card, NDI, and ONVIF camera inputs, ensuring compatibility with a broad range of existing equipment. PTZOptics Move SE and Move 4K cameras are Hive-Linked capable and can be connected directly to the cloud.

Yes, PTZOptics Hive operates via the cloud, allowing remote production and management of live streams from anywhere in the world. You can use the Share button to share role-specific access with others via an email.

Power over Ethernet (PoE) and network connectivity ensure easy installation and reliable operation in any remote production setup. It's easy to get your cameras powered and connected to the network using a PoE-capable network switch.

Hive features a user-friendly interface that simplifies the streaming setup and requires minimal technical knowledge, making it accessible for users of all skill levels. Because Hive is a browser-based remote production software, anyone can access your Hive Studio with an internet connection.

PTZOptics offers a "Remote Production" book by Paul Richards and an accompanying online course covering both fundamental and advanced remote production techniques.

The Producer-SE bundle offers 1080p video quality with auto-tracking and versatile outputs, ideal for budget-conscious productions. The Producer-4K bundle provides ultra-high-definition 4K video, advanced auto-tracking features, and NDI®|HX integration, suited for high-end broadcasts and events.

Both cameras offer high-quality video and are equipped with advanced auto-tracking and multiple output options. The Move SE is ideal for 1080p productions, while the Move 4K is perfect for scenarios that require 4K resolution.

PTZOptics Cameras

Harness the Power of Robotic Cameras.

- Hive-Linked Integration: Connect your PTZOptics cameras to your Hive Studio account just once, and they remain linked for remote operation anywhere in the world. - PoE and Network Connectivity: Power over Ethernet (PoE) and network connectivity ensure easy installation and reliable operation in any remote production setup. - Universal Remote PTZ Control: Share PTZ controls with any team member globally, enhancing collaboration and production flexibility.

Move SE

The PTZOptics Move SE is the definitive choice for productions requiring high-definition video. Delivering crystal-clear 1080p resolution, this camera combines quality with the convenience of remote operation.
Move 4K

For productions where detail and precision are paramount, the PTZOptics Move 4K offers unparalleled 4K resolution. This camera is perfect for scenarios where ultra-high-definition video is a must, from professional broadcasts to high-profile live events.
Auto-Tracking

Equipped with sophisticated auto-tracking technology, the Move SE and Move 4K keeps your subjects in sharp focus during any live action.
SDI, HDMI, USB and NDI

Features multiple output options including SDI, HDMI, USB, NDI®, and IP to suit a wide range of production environments.
Hive-Linked

The easiest way to deploy PTZ cameras in any scenario is to link them directly to Hive. Once connected your cameras will always be remotely controllable in the cloud

Cameras

Learn about our remotely controllable robotic cameras designed for video production.

Learn More

PTZOptics

Software

Learn about the software that brings everyone together in a single cloud studio.

Learn More

Hive

Video Kits

Check out our three camera PTZOptics Producer kits. They are perfect for remote productions.

Learn More

Bundles

Get in Touch

Reach out to our team at Parnters@PTZOptics.com to learn more about PTZOptics Hive.

Download Your Remote Production Book

Your Professional Guide to Cloud-Based Broadcasting, IP Video, and Audio

In addition to the book, gain access to our free course on Udemy, designed to further enhance your knowledge and skills in remote production. The course complements the book, providing practical insights and hands-on experience with industry-leading tools and technologies.

Unlock the full potential of remote production and stay ahead in the evolving media landscape. Download the book now and start your journey with our expert guidance and resources.

Discover the future of broadcasting with our comprehensive guide, “Remote Production: Your Professional Guide to Cloud-Based Broadcasting, IP Video, and Audio.” This essential resource is now available for free download by simply submitting the form. Dive into the latest trends, tools, and techniques in remote production, including:

Cloud-based production workflows
The benefits and challenges of IP video and audio
Leveraging cloud computing for live events
The transition from traditional to remote broadcasting models

Get in Touch

(833) 888-9706

[email protected]

UnderstandingEncoders

Explore the Possibilities