Blackmagic Design SDI Expander 8x12G

Blackmagic Design SDI Expander 8x12G

The Blackmagic SDI Expander 8x12G is a 1 RU bidirectional SMPTE 2110 IP converter designed to integrate 12G-SDI infrastructure into high-bandwidth 100GbE broadcast systems. Supporting up to 16 channels of simultaneous 10-bit 4:2:2 video conversion, the unit converts eight independent 12G-SDI inputs to SMPTE 2110 IP while concurrently converting eight SMPTE 2110 IP streams back to 12G-SDI outputs. Dual 100GbE QSFP28 connections provide SMPTE ST 2022-7 redundancy, ensuring uninterrupted signal delivery across IP-based production workflows.

Engineered for hybrid SDI/IP environments, the expander supports SD, HD, and Ultra HD formats up to 4K60 with automatic detection, along with 16 channels of embedded audio per 2110 IP video stream. A front-panel 2.2" LCD with integrated control knob and buttons enables real-time monitoring of video, audio, and system parameters. At the same time, a built-in speaker and headphone output allow for direct audio confidence monitoring. External control is supported via a dedicated RJ45 for NMOS-based configuration and USB-C for setup and firmware updates, with dual IEC power inputs ensuring power redundancy for reliable performance.

SDI and IP Video Conversion

• Simultaneous bidirectional conversion between 12G-SDI and SMPTE ST 2110 IP video
• Eight 12G-SDI inputs and eight 12G-SDI outputs in a single 1 RU chassis
• Dual 100GbE QSFP28 ports with SMPTE ST 2022-7 redundant streaming
• Auto-detection of SD, HD, and Ultra HD formats up to 4K60
• 10-bit 4:2:2 video with Rec. 709 and Rec. 2020 color space support
• 16 channels of embedded audio per IP video stream

Convenient Design

• 2.2" front-panel LCD for video, audio, and system monitoring
• Integrated control knob and buttons for configuration and routing
• Built-in speaker and headphone output for audio monitoring
• Dedicated RJ45 port for NMOS control, configuration, and updates
• USB-C interface for firmware updates and local configuration
• Dual IEC C14 AC inputs for redundant power delivery

Interfaces

Inputs

• 8 × BNC (12G-SDI)
• 1 × QSFP28 (100Gb Ethernet)

Outputs

• 8 × BNC (12G-SDI)
• 1 × QSFP28 (100Gb Ethernet)

Other I/O

• 1 × RJ45 input
• 1 × USB-C (firmware update)

Audio

• Embedded audio: 32-channel (IP/SDI)

Standards

• SMPTE 292M / 296M / 424M / 425M
• SMPTE ST 2110-20 / 2110-21 / 2110-30 / 2110-40
• ST 2022-7 (redundancy)
• ST 2081-1 / 2081-10
• ST 2082-1 / 2082-10
• ST 2084 / ST 2108-1

Video Transmission

• SDI input format: 10-bit 4:2:2 YUV
• 3840 × 2160: 23.98 / 24 / 25 / 29.97 / 30 / 50 / 59.94 / 60 fps
• 1920 × 1080p: 23.98 / 24 / 25 / 29.97 / 30 / 50 / 59.94 / 60 fps
• 1920 × 1080i: 50 / 59.94 / 60 fps
• 1920 × 1080 PsF: 25 / 29.97 / 30 fps
• 1280 × 720p: 50 / 59.94 / 60 fps

Performance

• Maximum data rate: 100 Gb/s
• HDR support: Yes
• Reclocking: No
• HDCP support: No
• EDID support: No

Power

• Power I/O: 2 × IEC C14 inputs
• Power input: 100–240 VAC
• Redundant power supply design

General

• Rack form factor: 1RU
• Certifications: IEEE 1588-2008

Operating Conditions

• Operating temperature: 5°C to 40°C (41°F to 104°F)
• Storage temperature: -20°C to 45°C (-4°F to 113°F)
• Humidity: up to 90% (non-condensing)

OS Compatibility

• macOS 26 or later
• Windows 11 or later

Dimensions

• 482.6 × 226.1 × 43.2 mm
• 19.0 × 8.9 × 1.7 in