The Evolution of Live Broadcast: Haivision’s Mobile Video Transmitters Transform Remote Production
In an era where the broadcast industry is rapidly transitioning towards remote and cloud production, the demand for technology that can seamlessly handle live event coverage is more critical than ever. Mobile video transmitters, capable of streaming broadcast-quality video over 4G and 5G cellular networks, have emerged as indispensable tools for remote production applications. These devices, which double as video encoders and cellular modems, offer a solution to the unpredictability of IP network connectivity through cellular bonding. This technology combines several networks to enhance bandwidth and reliability, ensuring seamless live video transmission even in the most challenging environments.
Haivision, a leading provider of live video solutions, offers an extensive lineup of mobile video transmitters designed to meet the diverse needs of the broadcast industry. The range includes the Haivision Air320e-5G, Pro360-5G, Pro380, and Pro460 models, all compatible with the Haivision StreamHub receiver. These products leverage the Emmy® award-winning Safe Stream Transport (SST) protocol, presenting a complete solution for remote production broadcast challenges.
The Haivision Air320e-5G stands out for its ability to encode high-quality video from SDI and HDMI sources to HEVC or H.264 with minimal latency. It features two internal modems, expandable to four with external USB cellular modems, and supports live and local recording in various formats without requiring additional licenses. This transmitter is ideal for transmitting over bonded cellular connections, including 4G and 5G, as well as Ethernet, WiFi, BGAN, and satellite services like Starlink.
The Pro series, including the popular Pro360-5G and the latest 4K UHD and quad-HD mobile video transmitter, the Pro460, offers solutions tailored for reliable, low latency live video contribution over bonded cellular and IP networks. These transmitters are equipped with features such as easy video returns and intercom for two-way audio communications, enhancing collaboration between live talent and production staff.
Choosing the right mobile video transmitter involves considering several key factors, including portability, flexibility, network connectivity, and multi-camera synchronization. The Haivision Air, with its compact design and removable battery, offers exceptional portability. It can be deployed in various ways, including on drones for dynamic event coverage, as demonstrated during the SailGP’s Spain Sail Grand Prix in 2023.
Network connectivity is crucial for ensuring the reliability of live broadcasts, especially in remote or crowded areas. The Haivision Pro360-5G and Pro380 transmitters have proven their worth by delivering stable, low-latency HD video transmission in demanding scenarios, such as the TCS New York City Marathon and the Pho3nix Sub7 Sub8 Triathlon.
For productions requiring multi-camera synchronization, Haivision’s Pro460 model allows for the encoding and transmission of up to four simultaneous HD sources or a single 4K/UHD video. This capability was instrumental in the coverage of the 2023 TCS New York City Marathon, where multiple cameras mounted in vehicles provided synchronized live streams to the Haivision StreamHub receiver.
As the broadcast industry continues to embrace remote and cloud production, Haivision’s line of mobile video transmitters offers a robust solution for covering live events of all sizes. With advanced features designed to meet the specific needs of broadcast professionals, Haivision ensures that remote production is not only possible but also efficient and reliable, marking a significant evolution in live broadcast technology.
