Broadcast Module 3.0

[Blair S. Paulsen]

The newest RED models are now supporting USB-C connectivity. I am hopeful that opens the door to various physical infrastructure topologies. To optimize a fast data port like USB-C, a robust interface with extensive compatibility via legacy ports, would be most helpful. For starters, USB-C itself has some cable run limitations. Then you have some existing parts of the production chain in many installations that simply cannot do anything with a USB-C data feed.

Now that RED has more experience and a larger customer base - courtesy of the Komodo price point - perhaps it would be worth revisiting development of a live/broadcast interface. Particularly if it could use the USB-C port both for signal and control. A "black box" that supported SMPTE fiber, alternative comms for shows that aren't all SMPTE fiber compliant, multiple SDI taps including one with a DA to support longer runs, cans, XLR ins and outs, battery power and small LCD status screen. For hard position you just hang it off the camera or support and run a short high spec USB-C cable to the camera port. For handheld/gimbal/etc you could use a belt mounting solution, or attach it gimbal, or bolt it to the camera body, etc.

Whether RED would want to develop something like this in house, or partner with a 3rd party is up to them. The real question is what kind of sales volume would such a module require to spread out the NRE and make the price attractive.

Cheers - #19

 

[PatrickWebb]

I would also be pretty interested to see if something like this eventuates to the market. I would love to find the OG one for DSMC1.

As for the price of this, I would believe that it would be crazy expensive and limited production. If a third party manu' could do it, like Tilta or the more expensive Wooden Camera, that would be awesome.