Video Transports
SDI graphics output with Blackmagic DeckLink
In an SDI studio, graphics have to reach the switcher as an SDI signal like every other source. The Render Engine sends VRA graphics out through a DeckLink card or UltraStudio device, as a full picture or as separate fill and key for your switcher's keyer.
What VRA does with Blackmagic DeckLink (SDI).
One output per card channel
Each VRA output picks a Blackmagic device and channel. More outputs need more channels on the card, and a machine that can draw them all.
Formats up to 2160p60
Pick from SD, HD and UHD formats up to 2160p60, matched to the switcher or router that receives the signal.
Fill and key for your keyer
With a BGRA render and a card that supports external keying, VRA sends fill and key on two outputs. On a card that cannot, the setting stays locked and says why.
VRA sees the card
The Render Engine reports every DeckLink device it finds, whether it can key and the installed driver version, so you map outputs from the browser.
How to set it up.
Requirements
- VRA Output Player installed on a computer with the Blackmagic hardware attached.
- A supported DeckLink or UltraStudio device and the current Blackmagic Desktop Video driver.
- An output format that matches the downstream equipment.
- Two suitable hardware outputs and BGRA rendering when external fill and key are required.
Install the DeckLink card or connect the UltraStudio device to the Output Player machine.
Install Blackmagic Desktop Video and confirm the device and connector settings in Blackmagic Desktop Video Setup.
Start VRA Output Player. In the output settings, choose Blackmagic and select the device, channel and video format used by the studio.
For fill and key, choose a BGRA output format and enable external keying on hardware that supports paired key output.
Send a VRA test graphic, verify frame rate and resolution at the destination, then check key polarity and timing when key is enabled.
Blackmagic DeckLink (SDI) questions
Does VRA work with UltraStudio as well as DeckLink? +
Yes. The Render Engine uses Blackmagic Desktop Video, so supported DeckLink PCIe cards and UltraStudio devices show up in the same output selection.
How do I key VRA graphics over my cameras on the switcher? +
Use a card with paired outputs, select a BGRA format and enable external keying. Connect fill and key to matching inputs on the switcher and set up the keyer there.
Which video format should I pick? +
The same resolution, frame rate and scanning mode as the switcher or router receiving it. A mismatch can mean no picture or an unstable input.
How many SDI outputs can one VRA machine run? +
As many as the card has channels and the computer can draw. The DeckLink channel count sets the ceiling, and a busy machine may hit its own limit first.
Blackmagic Design
About Blackmagic DeckLink (SDI).
DeckLink cards and UltraStudio devices are Blackmagic's video interfaces for SDI and HDMI.
The Render Engine, installed in the studio as the Output Player, draws the graphics and hands each frame to the card through Blackmagic Desktop Video. What goes on air is decided in Playout and designed in the Visual Designer; the card turns it into the SDI signal your switcher or router expects. Because the player runs in your own rack, the output keeps going when the internet does not.
What you can do with this connection
Automated live graphics for radio
Update song titles, presenter names and show details from your automation and schedule.
More infoThe products behind it.
More integrations.
Blackmagic ATEM
Automate your Blackmagic ATEM for radio. VRA cuts it from the studio microphones and runs its keys and macros, and your team can take over at any time.
NDI
NDI graphics output from the VRA Render Engine arrives in vMix or OBS as a source, and Camera Assist steers NDI PTZ cameras on the same network.
Blackmagic Videohub
Automate Blackmagic Videohub routing from VRA. Put SDI routes on buttons and in macros, next to your camera and graphics commands, on the studio network.
Check your studio setup with us.
Tell us your camera models, video switcher and radio automation. We will check the connections and show you the workflow that fits your station.