Blackmagic ATEM SDI

The Blackmagic ATEM SDI is a compact, four-input, live-production switcher designed for multi-camera live streaming and broadcast applications. Located on the rear of the chassis, the four SDI inputs can accept up to 1080p60 video from HD cameras, gaming consoles, or corporate computer streams. For output, the switcher features Two 3G-SDI outputs for external monitors, a USB-C output for streaming up to 1080p60 video to a computer, and an RJ45 Ethernet port for system management, remote control, and firmware upgrades.

The integrated control panel features easy-to-view, backlit control buttons for selecting inputs and controlling effects like transitions, keyers, and the DVE. The ATEM SDI is highly capable, featuring upstream and downstream keyers, an advanced chroma keyer, a DVE transition keyer, and both color and pattern generators. It also supports a media player that can store up to 20 stills in various formats for fill and key images, and allows for stream monitoring via the SDI output at a minimum resolution of 1366 x 768.

Product Features in Detail

Professional Broadcast Transitions

The switcher offers a comprehensive suite of professional transitions to enhance production value. These include instant Cut switching, smooth Mix (dissolve) blending with custom timings, Dip transitions (popularly to black or white, but customizable with graphics), and varied Wipe patterns (circles, diamonds, squares) that can be inverted or bordered.

Advanced Multi-Layer Upstream Keying

The powerful Upstream Keyer allows you to layer live video over other sources or graphics using several methods. Options include Luma Key for high-contrast images, precise Linear Key using fill and key signals, the versatile Chroma Key (ideal for green/blue screens and virtual sets), and Pattern Key for combining images with geometric shapes.

Integrated Downstream Graphics Keyer

The ATEM SDI includes a Downstream Keyer which is the final layer of keying before the program output. This feature is used to add high-quality overlays such as logos, bugs, and titles from the built-in media player directly over the live stream program, ensuring brand consistency.

Built-In Digital Video Effects (DVE) Processor

Utilizing the powerful integrated DVE processor, the switcher enables dynamic transitions where live video can be manipulated using effects like push, spin, squeeze, or swoosh. These DVE transitions can be easily flip-flopped and reversed, significantly expanding the available transition options.

Comprehensive Fairlight Audio Mixer

The built-in audio mixer provides precise control over all six available audio inputs (both camera and external). It features selectable On/Off/Audio-Follow-Video modes, separate gain control, level and peak metering, and advanced Fairlight audio enhancements including compressor, gate, limiter, six bands of parametric EQ, and master gain control.

Broadcast-Quality Media Player Pool

The switcher eliminates the need for external character generators by incorporating a Media Player that can store up to 20 broadcast-quality RGBA graphic files in its media pool. These graphics, which support popular formats (PNG, TGA, BMP, JPEG, TIFF), appear as input sources that can be used for full-frame transitions or fed to the keyers for overlays.