VideoGLOSSARY

SDI — Serial Digital Interface

01 — Definition

Broadcast digital video over 75Ω coaxial cable with BNC connectors. The data rates: HD-SDI at 1.485 Gbps, 3G-SDI at 2.97 Gbps (1080p60), 6G-SDI (4K30) and 12G-SDI (4K60). It carries embedded audio (up to 16 channels), runs 100–300 m depending on cable quality, and its connectors lock mechanically. On any critical broadcast path, it is preferred over HDMI.

02 — In the field

Test your SDI runs with a signal analyser before the event. Cable faults that trigger intermittent errors at full data rate pass a visual inspection, and a metre of compromised cable can let go exactly at show time.