The evolution of live video workflows has reached a critical point where IP networks are now essential for efficient content sharing. This shift highlights the importance of delivering content simply, reliably and cost-effectively. Previously, achieving high reliability and data rates required costly managed fiber connections, often costing thousands of dollars per month.
However, recent advancements in high-data-rate internet connectivity and reliable streaming protocols have transformed video connectivity. The widespread availability of high-speed internet and reduced connection costs have allowed content creators to access new revenue streams and offer audiences a more diverse viewing experience. This shift has been a major factor in the rapid growth of over-the-top (OTT) streaming services, which now have a user base of over 1.1 billion.
The Emergence of SRT
In response to these changes, the open-source Secure Reliable Transport (SRT) streaming protocol has emerged as a significant innovation, offering secure, reliable, and low-latency data transport. SRT provides unmatched connection reliability through a combination of Forward Error Correction (FEC) and packet retransmission, ensuring robust transmissions and quick data recovery in case of loss.
SRT also prioritizes content security, with options for 128 or 256-bit AES encryption to protect against unauthorized access. With its low-latency transmission capabilities and rapid error recovery, SRT enables efficient data transmission over unmanaged internet connections, making high-quality, low-latency video services more accessible.
SRT in Action: Versatility Across Platforms
SRT has been widely adopted across various applications, including live event broadcasting, remote productions, contribution between broadcast sites, and distribution across multiple locations. Its flexible configuration options allow network nodes to be designated as callers or senders, simplifying connectivity by allowing initiation from either end of the network.
Vislink’s Innovative SRT Solutions
Vislink has integrated SRT into its product lineup, offering operational advantages across multiple use cases. From free-roaming camera systems to live event contributions and network distribution solutions, Vislink utilizes SRT to enhance workflows.
For instance, SRT enables production teams to integrate wireless camera systems into remote production setups seamlessly. By using SRT connectivity, Vislink allows the separation of RF receive infrastructure for free-roaming cameras from video decoding at the broadcast center. This innovation improves event production efficiency by reducing on-site personnel and maximizing cost-effective IP connectivity.
Cost-Effective Live Event Streaming
For streaming video directly from an event, Vislink’s MVP Terralink Mini encoders offer an ideal solution for content owners. Utilizing SRT over the public internet significantly reduces IP network costs. The use of an SRT encoder, which is more affordable than traditional hardware-based encoders, makes new types of content commercially viable.
Global Reach Made Simple
Vislink’s MVP LinkSwitch expands SRT’s capabilities by enabling the creation of global distribution networks. By generating SRT streams from any MVP source unit, including bonded cellular devices, establishing secure and reliable distribution networks worldwide becomes simple and economical.
Total Control and Real-Time Monitoring
Leveraging the global reach of the public internet, Vislink uses SRT to provide real-time monitoring and control of video content nodes. The LinkMatrix control platform simplifies SRT connections with a user-friendly interface, allowing immediate or scheduled connections. With comprehensive monitoring statistics, SRT users gain direct insight into network health, putting control at their fingertips and eliminating the need for costly managed network operations. This fosters the development of new revenue-generating services.
Conclusion: The Future is Here with SRT and Vislink
As the landscape of high-speed internet and reliable streaming protocols continues to evolve, Vislink’s SRT-based solutions offer broadcasters unparalleled flexibility and affordability. The future of content delivery is not just about survival; it’s about thriving in a landscape full of opportunities. Vislink and SRT are not just meeting the industry’s needs—they are shaping its future by providing the tools needed for exceptional user experiences, lucrative revenue streams, and seamless content delivery.
Vislink’s solutions have revolutionized the way live video is captured, transmitted and experienced. The company has been a leading provider of cutting-edge live streaming solutions that leverage the latest innovations in bonded cellular, 5G, and AI-driven technologies for automated productions. Vislink has been at the forefront of technological advancements that empower broadcasters, content creators and professionals in various industries to deliver high-quality live video content to audiences worldwide.
