Teradek Serv 4K Launched – 4K HDR Streaming From Location to Post

Wireless VideoNAB 2022

by Francesco AndreolaApril 24^th, 2022

Teradek recently unveiled a new hardware/software solution for on-set and remote live streaming, the Teradek Serv 4K. The device supports streaming of 4K60 HDR 10-bit 4:2:2 signals that get instantly and easily distributed on location and to cloud-based platforms.  It is now available for pre-order for $2,799.

Undoubtedly, the days of cloud-based collaboration are here. Just a few days ago, in partnership with frame.io, Atomos introduced the Atomos Connect and Shogun Connect, namely their first-ever network-connected devices. Now, it’s Teradek’s turn.

Built on the legacy of the Cube series and Serv Pro model (first introduced in 2017), the new Teradek Serv 4K is a all-in-one 4K HDR-ready production-streaming solution that allows for easy real-time monitoring both on set and remotely. Let’s take a closer look.

Teradek Serv 4K: overview

The new Teradek Serv 4K is a monitoring tool that offers support for both local and cloud-based networks. Indeed, the device takes a SDI/HDMI input from the camera (up to 4K60) and encodes this video feed into a a high-quality signal. Finally, it takes care of distribution to on-set collaborators and remote team members with access to the cloud.

According to the company, the Serv 4K is easy to setup and its use should result in a very streamlined workflow that keeps together a traditional video-village approach with a much more modern cloud-based solution.

The system features H.264/H.265 encoding with bitrates of up to 45Mbps, HDR support (DCI-P3, PQ2084) to ensure maximum color fidelity, and 256-bit end-to-end encryption for data protection. Talking about security, Teradek also grants an extra layer of safety by providing access control for each individual user.

Here’s what Greg Smokler, VP of Cine Product at Creative Solutions, had to say about this new Teradek product release:

“Serv 4K unifies on-set and remote streaming setups with a 4K HDR-ready device that’s easy to set up, manage, and access. It’s part of an end-to-end streaming solution that removes barriers to creative collaboration by providing incredible image fidelity, simplified remote viewing and stream management, and double the local streaming capacity.”

Greg Smokler, VP of Cine Product at Creative Solutions

Local networks

In order to monitor the camera’s real-time feed on set, users simply need a iOS, Android, PC, MacOS, or Apple TV device with the Teradek Vuer app installed. The system simultaneously supports up to 20 devices on the same local network. This setup works even in the most remote locations, since it does’t require an internet connection.

Cloud-based features

The Teradek Serv 4K also allows remote collaborators, such as editors and producers, to instantly preview live 4K HDR content from the comfort of their studio. Indeed, the device can instantly start uploading previews to cloud-based platforms. These include Teradek Core and the popular Adobe-owned collaboration tool frame.io.

This cloud streaming solution supports a virtually unlimited number of devices. Moreover, when using the Teradek Core platform, team members can also communicate seamlessly via their computer, smartphone, or tablet using the built-in chat-based messaging tools. These also support voice messages for blazingly-fast feedback!

The Serv 4K doesn’t even fear any accidental internet connection lost. In fact, it accepts SD card media onto which the encoded video files get saved. Once connection is back, upload of files is restored.

Simple, sleek design

The Teradek Serv 4K features a sleek milled aluminum construction. The unit measures 150x107x36mm/6.25×3.6×1.4” in size, weighs 476g/1lb, and can be mounted both vertically or horizontally via a 1/4”-20 threaded hole at its bottom.

Overall, its stylish design is pretty simple. Two removable 2.4/5.8GHz WiFi antennas sit on top of the alloy. A small OLED screen, accompanied by two simple navigation buttons, displays fundamental information. 

On the opposite side, we can find the on/off switch, 2-pin Lemo DC port (7-28V / 3A max), SD card slot, 12G-SDI IN and OUT, HDMI 2.0 (input/output), two USB-C ports with 3G/4G modem support, a 3.5mm mic input, a 3.5mm headphones output, and a LAN (RJ45) port.

Price and availability

If you’re interested in the span-new Teradek Serv 4K, you can pre-order it now from B&H and CVP. Its official retail price is $2,799. In the box you’ll find a Serv 4K unit, two 2.4/5.8GHz WiFi antennas, a 2-pin to D-Tap cable (18 inches), a PSU 2-pin to 30W AC adapter cable (6 feet), and a 10-inch SDI cable.

Do you often feel the need to instantly transfer footage from the camera to post production facilities? What do you think about the new Teradek Serv 4K? Let us know your thoughts in the comment section below!