How To Connect Multiple SZXLCOM NDI Cameras On A LAN, Capture Video On A PC, And Integrate PTZ Controllers

1. Setting Up Multiple NDI Cameras on a LAN

1.1 Network Infrastructure

• Gigabit Switch: Use a managed Gigabit Ethernet switch (supports IGMP Snooping) to handle multiple NDI streams. Each 1080p NDI feed requires 100-150Mbps bandwidth.
• IP Configuration:

   1.Assign static IP addresses to each camera (e.g., 192.168.1.101, 192.168.1.102) to avoid DHCP conflicts.

   2.Ensure consistent subnet masks (e.g., 255.255.255.0) and gateway settings.

• Physical Connections: Connect all cameras and PCs to the same LAN using Cat6 cables.

1.2 NDI Protocol Setup

1. Enable NDI output on each camera (via web interface or onboard menu).
2. Verify NDI compatibility (e.g., NDI|HX vs. full-bandwidth NDI) and update firmware if needed.

2. Capturing NDI Video Streams on a PC

2.1 Software Requirements

• Install NDI Tools (includes NDI Studio Monitor and Access Manager) from NewTek's official site.
• Third-party NDI-compatible software: OBS Studio, vMix, Wirecast, or Adobe Premiere (with plugins).

2.2 Receiving Streams

• Launch NDI Studio Monitor or OBS, select Add Source > NDI Source, and scan for available cameras.

Assign unique names (e.g., "Stage_Cam1," "Audience_Cam2") for easy identification.

3. Integrating PTZ Controllers

3.1 PTZ Control Options

• NDI-PTZ: If cameras support NDI-PTZ, control pan/tilt/zoom directly over the network without additional wiring.
• Dedicated Hardware Controllers: For RS-232/RS-485-based controllers:

1. Use USB-to-serial adapters (e.g., Moxa UPort 1150) to connect to a PC.
2. Configure protocol settings (e.g., Pelco-D, VISCA over IP) and baud rates (e.g., 9600 bps).

3.2 Software Control Solutions

• NDI Tools PTZ Control: Built-in tool for NDI-enabled cameras.
• Third-Party Apps: PTZOptics Controller, OBS-PTZ Plugin, or vMix PTZ integration.

4. Critical Considerations

4.1 Network Optimization

1. Use wired connections (avoid Wi-Fi) and prioritize NDI traffic via QoS settings.
2. For large setups, isolate NDI streams using VLANs or a dedicated switch.

4.2 Compatibility & Performance

1. Ensure all devices use the same NDI version (e.g., NDI 5.x).
2. Avoid mixing NDI|HX and full-bandwidth NDI cameras to prevent latency inconsistencies.

4.3 PTZ Troubleshooting

• Protocol Mismatch: Confirm PTZ protocols (e.g., Pelco-D, ONVIF) match camera settings.
• Address Conflicts: Assign unique PTZ IDs (e.g., 1, 2, 3) to each camera.
• Cable Limits: RS-485 cables ≤ 1200m; RS-232 cables ≤ 15m.

4.4 Security & Sync

1. Change default camera passwords and enable network encryption.
2. Use PTP (Precision Time Protocol) for synchronized multi-camera workflows.

5. Common Issues & Fixes

• NDI Devices Not Detected:

1. Allow NDI ports (UDP 5353, TCP 5960-5999) in firewall settings.
2. Enable "Network Discovery" via NDI Access Manager.

• PTZ Unresponsive:

1. Check cable connections and verify protocol/address settings.
2. Test PTZ via the camera's web interface to isolate hardware issues.

• Video Lag:

1. Monitor bandwidth with tools like Wireshark.
2. Reduce resolution or switch to NDI|HX mode.

6. Recommended Equipment

• Why Choose This Setup?
• Seamless Integration: Effortlessly manage multi-camera NDI workflows for live streaming, broadcasts, or conferences.
• Scalability: Add cameras or controllers without overhauling your network.
• Professional Results: Achieve studio-grade video quality and precise PTZ control.

For advanced setups, consult SZXLCOM's official documentation or contact their technical support for tailored solutions.