The 4KSDI-Mini is a compact light-weight 4K video camera with professional 10-bit SDI output. It can be used as a point-of-view (POV) camera for live events and sports broadcasting, fitting in tight locations where larger cameras are impractical. Or, combined with an SDI video recorder, the 4KSDI-Mini can be used for specialty digital cinematography and feature production use. Following in the footsteps of the IO Industries 4KSDI camera, the 4KSDI-Mini brings enhanced picture quality, a smaller form factor, and single-cable 4K60p video via 12G-SDI. All together, this camera makes it easier to bring new angles of 4K video to the world, enhancing multi-camera productions of all kinds.

Two 4KSDI-Mini models are available to choose from. Both offer the same internal features and the same variety of 4K/UHD or 2K/HD output formats, but they incorporate different CMOS sensor types. The standard 4KSDI-Mini features a 1"-format Sony CMOS sensor with global shutter capability, making it best for applications involving fast motion or rapid movement of the camera. The 4KSDI-Mini RS features a 2/3"-format Sony CMOS sensor with rolling shutter, which is better suited for stationary camera or limited-movement applications. The picture quality and sensitivity on both models is similar, so the choice between the models comes down to which is suited best for the application.

The 4KSDI-Mini is available with either a C-mount or a passive Micro Four Thirds (MFT) mount, which allows easy interchangeability between hundreds of compact lenses available today. This flexibility to easily swap between fisheye, portrait, zoom, telephoto and many other kinds of lenses adds to the versatility of the 4KSDI-Mini. C-mount lenses can be very compact and are typically manually-adjusted lenses, though remotely-controlled motorized models are available. MFT mount is commonly used with compact photo cameras, and a broad range of compatible lenses are available, including low-distortion fisheye lenses. Adapters to convert the C-mount or MFT-mount to other lens mounts are available, such as B4, PL, Nikon F, Canon EF, and more. An active C-mount to EF-mount adapter is also available, allowing EF-mount lenses to be attached to the C-mount camera models, giving remote control ability of the focus and aperture settings of that lens.

With four SDI outputs on HD-BNC connectors, the 4KSDI-Mini provides a range of options to connect to legacy and future 4K video equipment. The primary output format is selectable between UHD and DCI 4K, at rates from 23.98 to 60.0 fps. If the SDI link configuration is set to single-link 12G/6G-SDI or dual-link 3G-SDI, the first two SDI outputs carry the primary signal. A secondary signal is available on the third SDI output, showing a scaled copy of the primary signal in HD or 2K format. The secondary signal is helpful for monitoring or even recording the primary signal in another format. Also, the on-screen menu can be shown on both primary and secondary, or only the secondary output, leaving the primary output "always clean". The SDI link configuration may also be set to quad-link 3G-SDI for connections with earlier 4K-compatible equipment, however no secondary output is available.

The 4KSDI-Mini is controlled through a two-wire RS485 serial connection. Operators can use a handheld remote control for quick camera adjustments through the on-screen menu. For live broadcast environments, 3rd-party remote control panels (RCPs) are available as well, allowing quick adjustments of paint and shading functions. PC-based control is possible through a USB-RS485 adapter and an easy-to-use software utility provided with the camera. Or, for complete systems integration, the full camera control protocol is straight-forward and fully documented for developers to incorporate into other control systems.

Shutter synchronization is critical for multi-camera applications such as stereoscopic 3D, VR-360, or even volumetric video capture. As well, in live broadcast facilities, cameras need to be able to slave to a master sync reference in order to allow cuts/fades between cameras. Otherwise, cameras must be paired with frame synchronizers which can add to the total video delay. The 4KSDI-Mini accepts an HD tri-level sync signal through a dedicated HD-BNC input. If this signal is distributed to multiple cameras, microsecond-level shutter synchronization between the cameras can be achieved.