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SMPTE 2110 in Pixotope Graphics

Pixotope Graphics now supports SMPTE 2110 through integration with Matrox ST2110 network cards (DSX LE series), enabling seamless connectivity in IP-based production environments. This advancement marks a significant shift from traditional SDI infrastructure to more flexible, scalable IP workflows.

What is SMPTE 2110?

SMPTE 2110 is a suite of standards for professional media transport over IP networks. Unlike SDI, which bundles video, audio, and ancillary data into a single signal, ST 2110 separates these elements into independent streams:

  • ST 2110-20: Uncompressed video

  • ST 2110-30/31: Digital audio

  • ST 2110-40: Ancillary data

Benefits of Moving to ST 2110

  1. Simplified Infrastructure: Replace complex SDI routing with standard IP network infrastructure

  2. Format Flexibility: Support multiple formats and resolutions simultaneously

  3. Resource Optimisation: Independent routing of video, audio, and data streams

  4. Scalability: Easier expansion of production capabilities

  5. Future-Proofing: Foundation for cloud-based and remote production workflows

image-20241030-162023.png
Example of traditional SDI-based 2-camera virtual production (AR, VR or XR) studio
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Same example as above, now implemented with uncompressed video over IP technology (SMPTE 2110)

New Requirements vs. Traditional SDI

  • Precision Timing Protocol (PTP): Essential for synchronisation across devices

  • Network Infrastructure: High-bandwidth, low-latency network switches

  • IP Knowledge: Team expertise in network configuration and management

  • Quality of Service (QoS): Proper network configuration for reliable performance

Implementation with Pixotope

Pixotope Graphics supports ST 2110 via Matrox ST2110 network cards (DSX LE series), enabling:

  • Seamless integration with existing IP infrastructure

  • Multiple input/output streams

  • Low-latency performance

  • Hardware-accelerated processing

Getting Started

  1. Install and configure PTP in the network

  2. Ensure network infrastructure meets ST 2110 requirements → See our recommended technology partners below

  3. Configure Matrox cards in Pixotope → For more information, see Configure ST2110 - Matrox

  4. Set up monitoring solutions (recommended) → See our recommended technology partners below

For detailed setup instructions and support, contact our technical team or refer to our comprehensive documentation.

Network Infrastructure: Netgear

While Pixotope's ST 2110 implementation works with any compatible network switch, we recommend Netgear's purpose-built solutions:

  • Netgear M4350-16V4C & M4350-40X4C

    • Certified ST 2110 support

    • Simplified PTP configuration

    • Built-in QoS profiles for broadcast

    • Intuitive management interface

Monitoring Solutions: Bridge Technologies

For comprehensive IP workflow monitoring, we recommend:

  • Bridge Technologies VB440

    • Real-time ST 2110 stream analysis

    • PTP stability monitoring

    • Advanced visualization tools

    • Timing and network performance metrics