Current Approaches to 8K Video Transmission via 12G-SDI Interfaces
Transmission of 8K video (7680×4320 or 8192×4320 resolution) over 12G-SDI connections presents considerable technical hurdles due to its high data bandwidth requirements (about 48 Gbps for uncompressed 8K/60p 4:2:2 10-bit signals). To solve this, people have developed a method that takes advantage of the capabilities of 12G-SDI.
Quad-Link 12G-SDI Transmission
The most widely adopted method is to split the 8K signal into four 4K sub-images, each image transmitted through a separate 12G-SDI link. And this approach is consistent with the SMPTE ST 2082-12 standard, which defines a “2-Sample Interleave” (2SI) technique. Here, the 8K video is divided into four quadrants, each processed as a 4K stream and transmitted via individual 12G-SDI cables. At the receiving end, these sub-images are synchronized and recombined to the full 8K resolution. Therefore, this method ensures the 8K signal has good compatibility with existing 4K equipments while maintaining signal quality.
Challenges and Future Directions
While quad-link transmission remains the industry standard for uncompressed workflows, as 8K production grows, advancements in FPGA-based signal processing and AI-driven bandwidth optimization are expected to play critical roles in overcoming current limitations.
In summary, 12G-SDI provides 8K transmission via a combination of multi-link subdivision, balancing high fidelity with practical implementation demands.
LILLIPUT Team
Date: 20250326
Post time: Mar-26-2025