AJA today released BRIDGE LIVE v1.16.3 firmware, which includes new fixes for SSM multicast. Download the free update here. 

AJA today released Mini-Config v2.26.11, a free update offering improved macOS Sequoia 15.x. connectivity for more seamless compatibility and performance across AJA’s line of Mini-Converters. AJA recommends that all Mini-Converter users update to the latest version. Download it here. 

AJA Sr. Product Manager Tim Walker will present “Making Color Management More Accessible” at the SMPTE Media Technology Summit 2024 in LA, Tuesday, October 22nd, from 2:10-2:30 PM PT. If attending the show, join him in the Emerging Tech Stage in the Solutions Hub exhibitor area, as he shares his insights on how to simplify and enhance color management workflows. Learn more here.

AJA rolled out a v3.7 bugfix update for its discontinued Ki Pro Ultra digital video recorder. Available now as a free download, v3.7 addresses a bug when recording to the latest generation Pak media drives. Find out more here.

AJA OG-ColorBox is now shipping! The versatile solution brings AJA ColorBox’s powerful toolset to the openGear form factor, including high-density 4K/UltraHD HDR wide color gamut (WCG) video processing, extensive HDR/WCG conversion options, color correction, and custom look-up table (LUT) processing. Whether there’s a live production need in the field to color correct specialty cameras, process camera Log, or transform SDR to/from HDR in real-time, OG-ColorBox can answer the demand. For an overview of OG-ColorBox’s full feature set, check out this announcement. 

Alongside the release of OG-ColorBox, AJA has also announced the availability of its free v3.0 update for ColorBox and OG-ColorBox. It includes exciting features like an SDR to Dolby Vision Preview mode; ARRI Alexa 35 LogC4 Wide Gamut 4 WVO support in Live Mode via the optional Colorfront license; a configurable ACES AMF pipeline; support for .CLF and .CTF files; and the ability to configure SDI and HDMI outputs for color space and bit depth. 

Learn more about OG-ColorBox here. Download the v3.0 update for both devices from AJA’s support page. 

AJA Sr. Product Manager Scott Matics recently sat down with Other World Computing’s Larry O’Connor at IBC 2024 to discuss how OWC’s tech boosts creativity and performance, aligning with AJA’s mission. Scott also shared how AJA System Test sets the standard for accurately measuring the performance of high-bandwidth media storage systems. See the full interview here.

Portrait Displays has integrated AJA ColorBox into the Calman Ready Program. AJA ColorBox connects directly with Calman software, enabling users to achieve superior color accuracy in less time. Read more in the latest announcement here. 

AJA’s Mike Boucke dives into the powerful new features of BRIDGE LIVE v1.16 in this walkthrough video. Learn about the enhanced IP video workflows, including Rocky Linux 9 support, SRT v1.5.3 Bonding, NDI updates, and more. Mike breaks down how these upgrades can streamline your streaming, encoding, and decoding tasks, giving you the tools you need to stay ahead in high-density video operations.

As IBC 2024 kicks off at the RAI in Amsterdam, AJA is debuting KONA IP25, its next-gen IP video and audio I/O card. Boasting SFP28 connectivity that supports 25GbE and 10GbE and multichannel UltraHD support, the 8-lane PCIe Gen 4.0 card is on display at the AJA IBC Stand (7.B19) to check out from 13-16 September, 2024. KONA IP25 helps address growing demands in full and hybrid SMPTE ST 2110 ecosystems and is designed to suit a wide range of applications, from broadcast and TV/film production to post production, venues, and houses of worship. With robust support for uncompressed bi-directional SMPTE ST 2110 and compatibility with popular third-party creative and streaming applications, KONA IP25 simplifies the transition to IP-based workflows.

KONA IP25 feature highlights include:

- A sleek, single-slot 8-lane PCIe 4.0 full-height card, with efficient and quiet active fan cooling.

- Two SFP cages that offer 10GbE and 25GbE SFP support, with ST2022-7 Transmit and Receive redundancy to support modern media network infrastructures.

- I/O support for ST 2110-20 video up to 2 Rx and 2 Tx redundant streams simultaneously (10-bit 4:2:2 up to 3840x2160p and 12-bit 4:4:4 up to 2048x1080p).

- I/O support for ST 2110-30 audio up to 2 Rx and 2 Tx redundant streams simultaneously (up to 16 channels per audio stream, 24-bit per channel, 48 kHz synchronous, as well as 1ms and 125us timing).

- I/O support for ST 2110-40 ancillary up to 2 Rx and 2 Tx redundant streams simultaneously

- ST 2059-2 (PTPv2), supplied via Media Net SFPs.

- Compatibility with a broad range of video formats.

- Integrations with industry-standard creative and streaming applications – including Adobe Premiere® Pro (and Creative Cloud Suite), Apple® Final Cut® Pro, Avid Media Composer®, OBS, and Telestream Wirecast – through complementary AJA Desktop Software plugins.

- AJA SDK support for Developer Partners.

- A downstream keyer offering support for graphics up to UltraHD with alpha channel over video, matte or framebuffer, or framebuffer content over incoming video or matte.

- Discovery, registration, and control, including NMOS Tx/Rx support according to standards IS-04 v1.3 and IS-05 v1.1, LLDP (Link Layer Description Protocol), and AJA SDK.

- PTPv2 / IEEE 1588-2008/ST2059-2 compliant.

- In-band/media network (via SFPs): PTPv2/ST2059-2, controllable via NMOS and AJA SDK, and out-of-band/management network (via 1GbE RJ45) controllable via NMOS and AJA SDK.

- Linux, Windows, and macOS compatibility.

- 40-watt typical (up to 50) power draw via PCIe bus power, plus additional ATX power connection if required.

- Three-year warranty and technical support.

KONA IP25 is anticipated to be available in Q4 through AJA’s worldwide reseller network for US MSRP $6,995. Learn more about the new technology in our latest announcement, and see it on display at IBC 2024, stand 7.B19.

AJA is introducing OG-ColorBox at IBC 2024 in Amsterdam today. The new device integrates AJA’s proven ColorBox toolset and intuitive web UI into an openGear form factor that delivers ultra-low latency, high-density 4K/UltraHD HDR/WCG video processing, extensive conversion options, color correction, and custom LUT processing. With its powerful feature set, OG-ColorBox is designed to meet a wide range of live production color needs, from color correcting specialty cameras to processing camera Log and transforming SDR to/from HDR in real-time, and more.

OG-ColorBox feature highlights include:

- Ultra-low latency keeps sources within the timing window of the downstream switcher.

- openGear frame reliability with optional redundant power supplies ensures live productions run uninterrupted.

- Robust AJA Color Pipeline enables more processing nodes for image manipulation/correction.

- Built-in SDR and HDR transforms with NBCU LUTs and configurable ACES AMF support are included, providing a base set of comprehensive and easy to use conversion tools.

- Licensable Colorfront, ORION-CONVERT, and BBC HLG LUT options provide access to color processing for a wide range of applications.

- 12G-SDI I/O supports 4K/UltraHD and 12-bit RGB 4:4:4 workflows, enabling the highest possible image quality at the highest resolutions.

- 4K/UltraHD down-conversion to 1080p lets users apply color correction and down conversion in a single low latency processing step.

- HDMI 2.0 output ensures seamless output of 4K/UltraHD HDR content to professional or consumer grade HDMI monitors.

- Channel-based presets reduce errors, making it simple to create, store, recall, and share presets between OG-ColorBoxes with the push of a few buttons.

- A powerful test pattern generator lets users access a wide range of test patterns to accelerate setup and signal path validation for a wide range of video formats and frame rates.

- Powerful overlay function for custom images that performs like a downstream keyer.

- ANC metadata management provides HDR VPID and Infoframe signaling management and all other ANC metadata pass-through.

- An extensive API/SDK enables support for any third-party technology like Cyanview and Skaarhoj color correction hardware controls panels; Assimilate Live Looks and Live Assist, Pomfort Livegrade, and QTAKE on-set look management software; and Portrait Calman and ColourSpace Light Illusion monitor calibration software.

OG-ColorBox is coming this October for $1995 US MSRP via our worldwide reseller network. Read more about it in our press release, and if you're attending IBC 2024, stop by stand 7.B19 to see it in action.

A new v3.0 update for AJA ColorBox will be available in October as a free download. It brings a host of new features to the ColorBox device, including access to the new SDR to Dolby Vision Preview mode and ARRI Alexa 35 LogC4 Wide Gamut 4 WVO support in Live Mode via the Colorfront license, and support for the new openGear OG-ColorBox. With the release, ColorBox users will also be able to access a configurable ACES AMF pipeline, leverage .CLF and .CTF files, configure the SDI and HDMI outputs for color space and bit depth, and more.

Read all about the latest v3.0 feature enhancements and chat with an AJA team member about the update at the AJA stand, 7.B19.

AJA is previewing exciting new virtualized video capture/playback technology at IBC this week, which it developed in collaboration with Amazon Web Services (AWS). Dubbed Virtual KONA, the solution integrates AJA’s NTV2 SDK with AWS Cloud Digital Interface (CDI), a network technology for transporting high-quality, uncompressed video inside the AWS cloud with high reliability and low latency. Combined, the technologies break down the barriers between on-premises and cloud for media production. AJA SDK Developer Partners can leverage Virtual KONA to build solutions across both environments for applications spanning broadcast through live streaming, post, and beyond. 

Virtual KONA and the AJA SDK provide a direct plugin to AWS CDI so any software application that supports KONA can connect to the cloud for I/O. It eliminates the need for developers to code an integration from scratch while offering all the same media and metadata capabilities that AJA’s line of audio and video I/O cards are known for, but in a virtual environment. Applications that leverage the integration will be able to seamlessly input/output uncompressed, high resolution, high dynamic range (HDR) video between the cloud and local workstations located nearly anywhere in the world to support visual effects, color correction, editorial, broadcast graphics and playout, streaming, and other needs.

Find out more about the tech preview in our latest announcement, and if you’re headed to IBC 2024, stop by the AJA Stand (7.B19) or the AWS Stand (C.590) to find out more.

As IBC 2024 kicks off today in Amsterdam, AJA is announcing the OG-C10DA, a new high-density 1x9 analog distribution amplifier that is joining its openGear lineup. Delivering exceptional versatility and performance for broadcast, production, truck, and proAV environments, OG-C10DA is designed to handle NTSC or PAL analog video, bi-level and tri-level video reference, AES3-id digital unbalanced audio, and LTC signal distribution. It features eight BNC outputs and one additional BNC output with options for loop-out or processing.

Built-in compatibility with Ross DashBoard software allows for intuitive remote configuration and control, making it easier than ever to manage signal distribution. Ideal for broadcast facilities, OB trucks, and live event production, the OG-C10DA simplifies infrastructure needs while expanding options for analog signal distribution. When paired with AJA’s OG-X-FR openGear rackmount frame and the AJA GEN10 HD/SD/AES sync generator, it provides robust and flexible signal distribution solutions.

OG-C10DA will be available next month for $449 US MSRP through AJA’s worldwide reseller network. Check out our press release for an overview of key feature highlights, and pop by IBC Stand 7.B19 to see it in person. 

AJA announced exciting new plugins for PixitMedia’s Ngenea data orchestration solution and Spectra Logic’s RioBroker, a media management and archiving platform, alongside software enhancements, for its AJA Diskover Media Edition data management software. Designed to streamline workflows, the new integrations and a v2.3 update give users more flexibility to work with a broader range of toolsets and data catalog with greater efficiency. They allow them to make more informed decisions about the data that lives on their local, remote, and cloud storage.

The Ngenea Data Orchestrator plugin provides direct access to the Ngenea Data Orchestrator solution within the DME UI so users can view data across their storage in DME and transfer it to the appropriate destinations using Ngenea, a secure solution for transporting data to/from globally distributed cloud, object, and tape storage, and traditional network-attached storage (NAS). The BlackPearl RioBroker plugin ensures that M&E organizations can view, access, and make more informed decisions about the content in their archives (object/tape/cloud). Both plugins are available as part of the AJA Diskover Media Edition license. Contact the AJA Diskover Media Edition Team to add and configure either, or both.

AJA Diskover Media Edition v2.3 includes an administrative upgrade that reduces the time it takes to install, configure, and administer Diskover and mitigates potential human error when working with text files, as well as expanded flexibility via a new PDF viewer that lets users display the contents of PDF files saved to their storage, without giving access to the source file hence protecting your production network. The latest v2.3 features are immediately available to AJA Diskover Media Edition users with an active license. Read more about the plugins and update here. 

AJA today released v1.16 firmware for its powerful IP video workflow platform, BRIDGE LIVE. First previewed at NAB 2024 in April, the update is now available as a free download from the AJA support page. Key release highlights include Rocky Linux 9 operating system upgrade and SRT 1.5.3 with bonding for hitless redundancy of MPEG-TS streams, ensuring robust live video streaming over IP networks by leveraging multiple IP networks to prevent disruptions during network congestion or outages. Support for AAC-HE v1 & v2 encoding and decoding, 20-bit Dolby E passthrough for SDI or MPEG-TS audio, SEI timecode insertion for HEVC or H.264 encodes, and an NDI v5.6 update with multiple discovery server support are also introduced in the release. Additionally, users can now access a new monitoring dashboard, which provides a centralized view of pipelines across multiple BRIDGE LIVE devices and Comprimato’s Live Transcoder instances, offering comprehensive insights of the complete (or end-to-end) IP workflow.

New and current BRIDGE LIVE customers with an active maintenance agreement can download BRIDGE LIVE v1.16 firmware from the AJA support page today at no cost and utilize the new features. Those without an active agreement will still have access to the bug fixes and monitoring dashboard, along with the new operating system included in this version. Find out more about BRIDGE LIVE here, and check out the release notes for a rundown of the latest v1.16 improvements.

Optimizing performance across its openGear family of conversion solutions, AJA today rolled out a handful of new updates that bring crucial improvements to some of its most popular openGear cards. 

OG-Hi5-12G v1.3 introduces the ability to add up to 100 frames of audio delay using the slider or by entering the values manually via a text box, alongside other enhancements. OG-Hi5-4K-Plus v1.11, OG-3G-AMD v1.2, OG-12GM v1.7, and OG-12G-AM v1.2 also deliver advancements designed to enhance card performance. 

Check out the release notes for each update to get a full list of feature improvements on the support page, where you can also download each update for free.

AJA released a free new update for its high-density 4K/Ultra/HD NDI/SDI conversion gateway, BRIDGE NDI 3G. The latest v1.9.1 patch introduces performance and stability improvements. Check out the release notes for more details and download v1.9.1 today from our support page.

AJA published two new videos this week, including one that highlights its award-winning AJA ColorBox and v2.1 update, and another that offers an in-depth look at the ORION-CONVERT color pipeline that is integrated into AJA ColorBox. Explore the latest features in ColorBox v2.1, including real-time down conversion, crop, updated BBC LUTs, and the advanced ACES color processing pipeline, as AJA’s Tim Walker walks through the update. And find out what ORION-CONVERT is all about from developers Nick Shaw, Antler Post, and Pablo García Soriano as they discuss ColorBox's integration with ORION-CONVERT and how it ensures mathematically precise HDR to SDR and SDR to HDR conversions. See ColorBox and ORION-CONVERT in action at IBC 2024 at the AJA stand, 7.B19. 

Today, AJA introduced a new v4.8 update for its line of KUMO routers that streamlines complex routing scenarios with more intuitive, flexible preset options. Users can now save current configurations to 20 available preset slots, and each preset captures critical settings such as switching mode, crosspoint map configurations, source and destination button settings including name and color, and salvo configurations. Users can seamlessly deploy presets across different KUMO products and easily recall any preset at any time, restoring the KUMO to its previously saved state with a click. 

Experience the workflow flexibility of KUMO v4.8 and download the free update here.

AJA has rolled out an exciting Mini-Config v2.26.10 update that enhances functionality across its Mini-Converter lineup. With the latest release, Hi5-12G (v1.17) users can now apply up to 100 frames of audio delay for precise control over audio synchronization in diverse production environments, adjustable via a slider or by entering values directly into the text box. Also, ROI-DP (v1.10) users can now embed analog audio inputs directly into the DisplayPort output stream, providing additional flexibility when integrating analog audio sources with DisplayPort video signals. The 12GM (v1.17) has been bolstered with a critical bug fix.

Explore the latest Mini-Converter updates and optimize your setup by downloading Mini-Config v2.26.10 today via the AJA Mini-Config Software page.

AJA Desktop Software v17.1 is now available as a free download for AJA KONA, Io, and T-TAP customers here. Providing video and audio professionals with more flexibility in the field, the update advances AJA's desktop and mobile video and audio I/O solutions with new capabilities, such as the ability to pass metadata like SCTE-104, Dolby Vision, Closed Captioning, and SMPTE Time Codes. Desktop Software v17.1 also adds support for Thunderbolt on Linux, broadening the compatibility and usability of AJA's hardware across different platforms. Visit www.aja.com for more information about AJA’s Desktop and Mobile I/O solutions.

AJA has launched free v2.1 firmware for its HELO Plus H.264 streamer/recorder, which includes new additions for an improved user experience. HELO Plus customers can download the update today here to take advantage of a new SRT Stream ID parameter in Caller mode and a newly added SRT Listener mode. Additionally, another enhancement now displays the B-frame setting for each encoder on the status page. For more information about HELO Plus, visit www.aja.com/helo-plus. To find out more about the update, check out the full release notes. 

AJA has released FS-HDR v4.3.1 and FS4 v3.1.1 firmware. Both releases deliver new user improvements, and AJA recommends all FS-HDR and FS4 users upgrade to the latest firmware for an optimal experience. 

FS-HDR users who download the free v4.3.1 update for the HDR/WCG converter and frame synchronizer can take advantage of updated BBC HLG LUTs v1.7 for improved reproduction of bright saturated colors and wider color gamut SDR output, as well as a new Motion Adaptive Deinterlacer Control and updated, user-configurable Channel to Channel HFR Sync Control. Check out this video for an overview of these additions. 

AJA’s FS4 four-channel 2K/HD/SD or single-channel 4K/Ultra HD frame synchronizer and up/down/cross converter also gains a new Motion Adaptive Deinterlacer Control and updated, user-configurable Channel to Channel HFR Sync Control via latest v3.1.1 update.

For detailed guidance on feature improvements and configuration, please consult the Installation and Operation Guide. Find out more on our support page.

AJA BRIDGE NDI 3G v1.9 is now available as a free download for the 1RU gateway that supports conversion between 3G-SDI and NDI for both HD and 4K/UltraHD via AJA’s support page. The new update brings improvements such as:

-- Audio Reference level addition for EBU - 14dBfs along with preset to set all 16 channels to the same reference level.

-- NDIFrameSync audio handling improvement for 59.94/60 fps signals.

-- SDI to NDI audio now amplifies to the selected Audio Reference Level and the selection changed to positive to reflect amplification.

-- Audio Meters show output levels: reflect NDI on SDI-NDI and SDI on NDI-SDI.

-- Updated NDI library to latest v6.0.1 release, which brings NDI stability improvements.

It is highly recommended that customers update their software. Find out more and download the latest v1.9 release here. 

Discover the power of AJA ColorBox in achieving color accuracy across projects with Portrait Displays’ Calman software for monitor calibration via a new microsite at Portrait.com. The page provides guidance on leveraging AJA’s ColorBox color management and conversion device with Calman monitor calibration software to ensure monitors are perfectly tuned and that the final output mirrors what you see on screen. Find out more here.

AJA rolled out a new video today that shines the spotlight on its all-new Ki Pro GO2 multichannel HEVC/AVC recorder, which is on display this week in Las Vegas at the AJA InfoComm 2024 booth (#C8321). The portable recorder delivers higher-quality images at lower bit rates, allowing users to maximize storage and reduce network bandwidth. Watch the video for a brief overview of Ki Pro GO2’s robust feature set, including up to four channels of HEVC (H.265) or AVC (H.264) recording to USB 3.0 drives, with an intuitive web UI and front panel controls, a beautiful integrated HD screen, flexible connectivity, realtime recording to network storage and so much more. For more information, visit AJA at InfoComm 2024 or read our latest announcement.

AJA today unveiled Ki Pro GO2, the latest evolution of its Ki Pro GO multi-channel HD/SD recorder. Arriving soon, the portable 2RU device supports up to four channels of simultaneous H.265 (HEVC) or H.264 (AVC) recording to cost-efficient USB 3.0 drives or realtime recording to network storage, with redundant recording and single-channel playback. 

On display at AJA’s InfoComm 2024 booth (#C8321), Ki Pro GO2 is designed to help production professionals deliver higher quality images at lower bit rates, maximizing the storage capacity of both their local USB storage and their network SAN while reducing the network bandwidth required for their remote recording needs. The system boasts a host of exciting features, including:

-- Intuitive operation with an easy-to-navigate web UI that is compatible with standard web browsers, front panel device buttons, and an integrated HD screen.

-- 5x USB recording media ports (compatible with off-the-shelf USB 3.2 Gen 1 media), 4x 3G-SDI inputs, 4x HDMI inputs, 4x 3G-SDI outputs, 1x 3G-SDI monitoring output, 1x HDMI monitoring output, balanced XLR analog audio inputs, mic/line/48v switchable, and an Ethernet LAN port.

-- Realtime recording to network storage.

-- Onboard exFAT drive formatting.  

-- Built-in frame syncs.

-- Support for HDMI and SDI multi-channel matrix monitoring and HDMI and SDI. 

-- Enhanced Super Out for monitoring timecode, media status, and audio levels.

-- Integrated web-browser UI and front panel button controls, with HD resolution video screen for confidence monitoring and menu information.

-- Single-channel H.264 or H.265 playback. 

-- Selectable VBR recording settings with five options. 

-- Timecode SDI RP-188 Input Support: Time of Day or Timecode Value.

-- LTC Support, available using a single channel of Analog Audio In.

-- Two channels of embedded audio per video input.

-- Compact ½ rack width, 2RU height.

-- Three-year warranty and AJA’s world-class support.

Ki Pro GO2 will be available soon. Learn more about the new technology in our latest announcement and see it on display at InfoComm 2024.

In a move to help make AV over IP workflows more accessible, AJA today announced that it has reduced the price of its award-winning Dante AV 4K transmitters/receivers from $2,495 to $1,749 US MSRP. An ideal fit for a wide range of IP video environments, AJA Dante AV 4K transmitters/receivers simplify the transport and control of ultra-low latency, professional-quality Dante video and audio to/from 12G-SDI or HDMI 2.0 devices over a 1 GigE IP network. The devices are simple to configure and operate, support Dante AV Ultra signals up to 4K Ultra/HD, and offer flexible interoperability with third-party vendor technology, an integrated control experience, and more. Learn all about AJA Dante AV 4K-T and 4K-R here. 

AJA has released v2.1.1 firmware for its high-performance color management device ColorBox. The update includes new improvements, and AJA recommends all users download it today from the AJA ColorBox Support Page, where release notes are also available to view.

As high-quality, color management and monitoring are becoming the new production standard across film, episodic, broadcast, and live event environments, AJA has launched a feature-rich update for its powerful ColorBox device for real-time color managed workflows ahead of NAB 2024. Available today as a free download from the AJA Support Page, the ColorBox v2.1 update introduces several new features and improvements inspired by customer feedback that deliver new value to users and support emerging workflows – from 4K/UltraHD down-conversion and 4K/2K cropping to a new ACES Metadata File (AMF) support, ARRI Wireless Video Optimized LogC4 (WVO) compatibility, and more. 

Release highlights comprise: 

- A 4K/UltraHD down-conversion feature for SDI and HDMI outputs makes it easy to down convert either or both SDI and HDMI outputs to a lower resolution (i.e., 4K to 2K or UltraHD to HD).

- 4K/2K Crop for the HDMI output crops a 4K to UltraHD or 2K to HD resolution, providing an unscaled image on the HDMI output that is compatible with a broader range of consumer UltraHD and HD displays. 

- An ACES Pipeline with support for AMF processing for high-quality ACES-compatible on-set look monitoring that lets users take advantage of AMF workflows. These AMF workflows support an exchange of information for improved color interoperability across the filmmaking chain. AMF files capture information required for an ACES Pipeline like the IDT, LMT, RRT, and ODT (camera log>look>display output) into a single XML file that can easily be distributed to team members on-set through post and final grade. 

- ARRI Wireless Video Optimized LogC4 (WVO) support solves challenges faced with ARRI Alexa 35 and LogC4 workflows leveraging some wireless Tx and Rx systems. By incorporating the inverse WVO 1D LUT directly incorporated into ColorBox, we are making LogC4 easier to deploy with existing equipment, saving both time and money. 

- SDR Preview for Colorfront Live Mode allows a user to quickly see what an HDR output would look like if it were converted to SDR without reconfiguring the HDR monitor. The Colorfront Engine maps the video to the targeted HDR but with values that will exactly represent the SDR image. This eliminates the time normally required to change the output format to SDR and the wait for the display to reconfigure.  

- BBC HLG LUTs v1.7 keeps users up to date with the latest HLG transform updates from the BBC. 

Download ColorBox v.2.1 today on aja.com and check it out in-person at NAB 2024 in the AJA booth, SL3065. Read our press release for a comprehensive overview of the new release additions.

AJA and our technology partner Pomfort today announced that we’ve been recognized as the first recipients of joint logo product certification status by The Academy Color Encoding System (ACES) for AJA ColorBox and Pomfort Livegrade, which together support ACES color managed workflows. The certification gives professionals the confidence that they’ll be able to achieve the color management goals of the Academy when using both of these tools in tandem. Learn more in our latest ColorBox announcement. 

AJA announced today that its FS-HDR real-time HDR/WCG converter and frame synchronizer is about to get an upgrade with new v4.3 firmware anticipated to release in Q2. NAB 2024 attendees will be able to see the update in action at AJA’s booth (SL3065), which includes the latest BBC HLG LUTs v1.7, as well as a new motion adaptive deinterlacer and updated channel to channel HFR sync controls. 

Updated BBC HLG LUTs v1.7 bring users updates to LUT 9 for improved reproduction of bright saturated colors and LUT 21, which offers a wider color gamut SDR output. A new motion adaptive deinterlacer control improves performance with some interlaced video containing fast motion by adjusting the amount of motion adaptation used. AJA has also updated the channel to channel HFR sync control, first introduced in FS-HDR v3.2, to be user-configurable, so customers can easily turn it on or off depending on their production needs.  

Once the update is available, AJA recommends all users download it from the AJA Support Page. To learn more about these upcoming FS-HDR improvements check out our pre-NAB announcement, and if you’re headed to NAB 2024, check it out in person at the AJA booth (SL3065). 

Today, AJA announced an update for BRIDGE LIVE, the IP video workflow multi-channel transcoder. BRIDGE LIVE v1.16, which will be on display at the AJA NAB 2024 booth (SL 3065), is packed with enhancements, such as SRT bonding, AAC-HE v2 encoding/decoding, 20-bit Dolby E passthrough, and other additions that give users more flexibility in the field. 

Release highlights include: 

- A new Rocky Linux 9 operating system replaces CentOS7.

- SRT v1.5.3 support is now standard with BRIDGE LIVE. With backward compatibility, the addition ensures no interruptions to workflows built on previous SRT versions.

- SRT Bonding for hitless redundancy of MPEG-TS streams helps increase the reliability and quality of live video streams over IP networks and the public internet. Leveraging more than one IP network prevents live video stream disruption in the event of network congestion or outages.

- An NDI v5.6 update with multiple discovery server support.

- SEI timecode insertion lets users insert timecode into SEI for HEVC or H.264 encodes, with the capability to generate timecode from NTP (Network Time Protocol). 

- A 20-bit Dolby E passthrough addition enables users to send and receive Dolby E within SDI or MPEG-TS audio. 

- AAC-HE v2 encode and decode support can be set up as LATM (Low Overhead Audio Transport Multiplex) or ADTS (Audio Data Transport Stream), further expanding the robust list of audio codecs supported in BRIDGE Live. 

- A new monitoring dashboard, accessible via BRIDGE LIVE’s active Settings.ini file, offers a centralized view into pipelines across multiple BRIDGE LIVE devices and Comprimato’s Live Transcoder (LT) instances (on premises or in the cloud). Linking BRIDGE LIVE and LT instances through Comprimato’s server portal, this feature addition must be set up on each BRIDGE LIVE and offers comprehensive insight into each pipeline via a web browser interface. 

BRIDGE LIVE v1.16 will soon be available for download from AJA’s website for current users with an active maintenance agreement. Customers without a maintenance agreement will be able to access bug fixes within v1.16. To learn more about these exciting additions to BRIDGE LIVE, check out our pre-NAB news or pop by the AJA Booth (SL3065) during NAB 2024 to chat with our team. Once live, the update can be downloaded here. 

NAB 2024 is around the corner, and AJA is gearing up to showcase a range of software and firmware updates, including new Desktop Software v17.1 for our desktop and mobile video and audio I/O solutions. Anticipated to release in Q2, Desktop v17.1 for KONA, Io, and T-TAP products debuts new capabilities, including the ability to pass metadata such as SCTE-104, Dolby Vision, Closed Captioning, and SMPTE Time Code. The release also adds support for Thunderbolt on Linux.

The update will be on display at NAB 2024 at the AJA Booth (SL 3065) and more information about the release is available here. Once live, the free update will be available to download here. 

With NAB 2024 less than a week away, AJA announced a new update coming to its FS4 four-channel 2K/HD/SD or single-channel 4K/UltraHD frame synchronizer and up/down/cross-converter. Among many improvements included in FS4 v3.1 is a new motion adaptive deinterlacer control that improves performance with some interlaced video containing fast motion by adjusting the amount of motion adaptation used. Also new to the release is an updated channel to channel HFR sync control that was first introduced in FS4 v2.0 and is now user-configurable so customers can easily turn it on or off depending on their production needs.  

AJA encourages all FS4 users to download the free update when it launches in Q2. To learn more about the update, check out AJA’s pre-NAB announcement and/or visit AJA’s booth (SL3065) at NAB 2024. The update will be available for download here. 

Prior to NAB 2024, AJA announced an upcoming firmware update for its HELO Plus H.264 streaming and recording device. Anticipated to release in Q2 as a free download, HELO Plus v2.1 features improvements such as a new SRT Stream ID parameter to Caller mode, the addition of SRT Listener mode as a user selection, a view of the B-frame setting of each encoder in the status page, and more. Visit AJA at NAB 2024, booth SL3065, to learn more about the update or check out our What’s New Page. Once live, the update will be available for download from AJA’s support page. 

AJA today revealed new features, plug-ins, and enhancements for AJA Diskover Media Edition data management and curation software, via a new v2.2.3 software update, available now. On display at the AJA NAB booth (SL3065), the latest release delivers an enriched metadata catalog via a new arrival date attribute, a plug-in for Autodesk’s popular Flow Production Tracking creative project management software (previously ShotGrid), and a host of other useful new navigation, host-aware file action, task panel, and analytics improvements designed to streamline workflows. With the update, a trial of the software can now also be set up in minutes using an OVA (open virtual appliance).

Release highlights include:

- A new arrival date attribute that allows the software to collect when a new file is detected in a given location. 

- A new Flow Production Tracking plug-in uses production status metadata to help align data management with production schedules and makes Flow Production Tracking project metadata easily searchable.

- Navigation improvements allow expandable top paths to be reconfigured so that users can re-group volumes by data center and geo-location. The addition of expandable directories, with fill bars by size and number, offer more flexibility when drilling down file trees. Additional navigation enhancements include support for up to 500 top paths and collapsible file trees on the search page.

- New host-aware file actions now recognize distributed file locations for users with multiple geo-facilities. 

- An improved task panel with an updated notification system for warnings and failed tasks provides additional detail about automated tasks.

- Improved analytics such as additional filtering options and an updated dashboard give users more flexibility while enhanced charts on the search page accelerate load times. 

- Intuitive trial set up via OVA (open virtual appliance) makes it easy to get a high-level view of software functionalities, including complete API access, with indexing performance maintained up to 2 million file counts. 

To learn more about the latest update, check out our pre-NAB news or visit our NAB booth (SL 3065) to chat with our team. Download the update here.

AJA has released a new Stream Deck plug-in for its compact HELO Plus H.264 streaming and recording device. The software will be available to check out at AJA’s NAB booth (SL3065) April 14-17, 2024, and allows HELO Plus users to access the popular Elgato Stream Deck desktop controller for simple, immediate hardware-based control of the tool. Compatible with Elgato’s entire line of Stream Deck devices on Windows and macOS, the plug-in is available at no cost to HELO Plus and Stream Deck users on the Elgato Stream Deck Marketplace.

AJA’s new, feature-rich Stream Deck plug-in provides the ability to start and stop HELO Plus recording and enables users to: 

-- Select the input for use in a streaming/recording session – SDI, HDMI, internal test signal, and/or layout engine (allowing simultaneous use of the HDMI and SDI inputs), providing a higher level of operational flexibility

-- Lock stream and record functions for simultaneous operations

-- Initiate AV Mute mode on HELO Plus for manual ‘live’ stream start/stop 

-- Recall up to 10 layouts, helping to improve production value        

Download the free plug-in today from the Elgato Marketplace | Stream Deck, and come see it in action at the AJA NAB 2024 booth (SL3065). A HELO Plus Stream Deck Plugin Guide is available here to assist with configuration and setup. HELO Plus is available through AJA’s worldwide reseller network for $1869 US MSRP. For more information, read our press release. 

AJA has rolled out updates for multiple openGear-compatible conversion cards. Available today as a free download, these openGear firmware updates deliver new improvements to a broad range of AJA’s openGear cards, including HDMI 1.4/2.0 output selection for the OG-Hi5-12G 4K/UltraHD 12G-SDI to HDMI 2.0 converter card. With the new addition, OG-Hi5-12G users can convert 4K/UHD High Frame Rate input signals to 4K/UHD Low Frame Rate output signals. AJA recommends all users download the latest updates from the AJA Support Page, where you’ll also find the full release notes.

AJA has released a free update for its KUMO router series featuring enhancements like an improved GVG Native Protocol implementation and more. Download the latest KUMO v4.7.1 firmware today here!

Today, AJA released a free Desktop Software update for AJA KONA, Io, and T-TAP Pro devices featuring new improvements. The latest v17.0.1 software is available on Mac and Windows, as well as Linux Ubuntu and Rocky. Check out the release notes for more details and download the update here.

AJA Mini-Config v2.26.9 is now available as a free download with a new feature for the Hi5-12G 12G-SDI/HDMI 2.0 converter and other enhancements for the AJA Mini-Converter line. With the latest update, Hi5-12G users can now choose between HDMI 2.0, HDMI 1.4, or Auto in the output tab, and when the video source is 4K/UltraHD with a high frame rate (HFR) – including 50, 59.94 or 60 – the Mini-Converter will automatically drop every other video frame, reduce bit depth, or both when connected to an HDMI 1.4 sink device such as a monitor, or if the HDMI 1.4 output option is selected. Read more about the update in our release notes and download Mini-Config v2.26.9 here.

AJA released new free firmware for its U-TAP USB 3.0-powered HDMI and SDI capture devices. Available for download via the AJA support page, U-TAP v1.5.7 features enhanced Zoom software compatibility on Apple silicon and other improvements. Get the update here.

AJA has released new openGear firmware, which includes enhancements for some of its popular line of openGear conversion cards, such as the OG-3G-AMA, OG-FS-Mini, OG-HA5-12G, OG-HA5-4K, OG-Hi5-12G, OG-Hi5-4K-Plus, OG-ROI’s, and OG-UDC. Download the latest firmware for your specific openGear card here.

AJA Dante AV 4K v1.1 firmware is now available as a free download for 4K-T and 4K-R, AJA’s transmitter/receiver converters that enable the transport and control of ultra-low latency, professional quality 4K/UltraHD/2K/HD/VESA Dante video and audio to/from 12G-SDI or HDMI 2.0 devices over a 1 GigE Dante AV network. The robust update expands AV-over-IP workflows, delivering user-inspired features like support for HDR, Dante Domain Manager, external Reference In, and more. To learn what’s new in the release, read our announcement. We encourage all users to download it today here.

AJA System Test Lite v17.0.1 is now available as a free download from the Apple macOS App Store. AJA encourages all app users to download the latest version for access to new user interface improvements and other enhancements. Newly added support for custom test file sizes lets users easily run media speed tests on custom disk sizes for multi-terabyte disk system testing. Get the free update here.

AJA KONA X is now shipping! Compatible with free AJA Desktop Software v17 and AJA Developer SDK v17 (also available today), KONA X is a blazingly fast 4-lane PCIe 3.0 I/O card offering as low as sub-frame latency video capture and playback for a broad range of applications from virtual production, to post, OEM development, and beyond. 

KONA X combines bi-directional dual, full-size BNC 12G-SDI and dual HDMI 2.0 ports with Streaming DMA, VESA HDMI I/O support, and much more to ensure professionals are equipped with all the tools they need to meet evolving I/O demands in the field. An optional KONA Xpand board is also available to purchase for even more flexible connectivity (AES/EBU audio, LTC, REF, and more).

KONA X is packed with exciting features, including: 

• Built-in Streaming DMA for ultra-low latency: DMA operation bypasses the KONA X on-card memory so that users can achieve as low as sub-frame latencies. This is especially crucial for eSports and live production environments that demand the synchronization of AR graphics and where split-second reaction times for viewer interactions matter. In virtual production, it keeps camera tracking, the LED wall, and the game engine in sync, while in broadcast, it simplifies dynamic video management. Streaming DMA is application dependent.
• Flexible connectivity with VESA HDMI I/O support: Dual full-size BNC, 12G-SDI bi-directional connections and dual, full-size HDMI 2.0 connections (one for input and one for output) with VESA HDMI I/O support provide KONA X users with more versatility. VESA HDMI I/O compatibility ensures the video subsystem timing is agnostic, supporting capture and playback of multiple different HDMI formats.
• In-firmware Microcontroller: KONA X users and OEM developers can leverage this feature to run code directly on the card and achieve ultra-low latency or functionality that might need to exist before the system containing the card fully boots.
• Optional KONA Xpand Breakout Board: A complementary, optional breakout PCIe I/O board extends KONA X’s connectivity to support: two channels of balanced analog audio (via a user-supplied DB15 to XLR cable); Bi-level/Tri-level Video Reference (BNC); eight channels of unbalanced AES/EBU audio (Supplied Breakout Cable - BNC); LTC In/Out (Breakout Cable - BNC) and RS-422 (Breakout Cable - DB-9).
• Desktop Software and AJA SDK v17 Compatibility: KONA X also harnesses the proven feature set of AJA’s Desktop Software, including new enhancements in the latest v17 update, such as improved closed caption support, performance improvements for Apple silicon systems, support for Rocky Linux, and more. Available on macOS, Windows, and Linux, AJA Desktop Software includes robust and reliable application plug-ins for the most popular creative tools, including Avid Media Composer, Adobe Premiere Pro, and Apple Final Cut Pro, among others. AJA Control Room, Control Panel, and System Test applications are also included.

Learn more about KONA X here. Download Desktop Software v17 here.

AJA rolled out free v4.1 firmware for its popular multi-channel H.264 recorder/player Ki Pro GO, bringing new feature improvements to users. With the update, users can now select the video to be displayed on the front panel LCD and choose between a single channel’s video or a Quad Split of all four channels. The Ki Pro GO web browser UI also now features a confidence monitor, a size-reduced copy of the video displayed on the front panel LCD. Users can easily opt to turn the information overlay on or off. Available today as a free download, Ki Pro GO v4.1 can be found on the Ki Pro GO Support page.

AJA today released v3.0.3 firmware for its FS4 four-channel 2K/HD/SD or single-channel 4K/UltraHD frame sync and up/down/cross-converter. The free update features several new enhancements, including improved VPID management for overriding HDMI EOTF and Colorimetry infoframes. Download it today from aja.com.