Video Module

To encode video and audio data efficiently for transmission over a network, you want a codec and container format that balances compression, quality, and latency.

H.264 (Video)

• Excellent quality at moderate file sizes
  Ideal for long recordings without taking up excessive storage
• Broad compatibility
  Works seamlessly with NDEVR and most editing tools
• Hardware-accelerated decoding
  Enables efficient playback even on lower-power devices

AAC (Audio)

• Provides clear, high-quality audio even at low bitrates
• Works seamlessly with H.264 in all standard streaming pipelines

MP4 (Container)

• Modern, standardized file format
  Compatible with NDEVR, mobile devices, browsers, and editors
• Supports fast seeking and metadata embedding
• Ideal for both short clips and long-form video

Recording Guidelines

• Resolution: 1080p (1920×1080) for general use; 4K if fine detail is critical
• Framerate: 30 fps for standard usage, 60 fps for smooth motion (e.g., training, movement analysis)
• Bitrate: Aim for 5–10 Mbps for 1080p; higher for 4K or complex scenes
• Keyframe Interval: 2 seconds is optimal for balance between quality and seek performance
• Audio Sample Rate: 48 kHz for professional clarity

To encode video and audio data efficiently for transmission over a network, you want a codec and container format that balances compression, quality, and latency. Ultimate recommendations largely depend on the speed and quality of the network, the desired latency, and the processing power of the video server.

H.264 (Video)

• Efficient compression delivers high-quality video with low bandwidth usage
• Smooth playback even on limited or variable Wi-Fi connections

AAC (Audio)

• Provides clear, high-quality audio even at low bitrates
• Works seamlessly with H.264 in all standard streaming pipelines

MPEG-TS (Container)

• Designed for live streaming over unreliable networks like Wi-Fi
• Tolerates packet loss better than other formats (like MP4)
• Compatible with most RTSP, RTP, and HLS stream sources

Configuration Tips

• Use a bitrate between 1–4 Mbps for 720p or 1080p video over standard Wi-Fi
• Enable hardware acceleration on the encoder if available
• Use keyframe intervals of 1–2 seconds for better seek and recovery
• Use UDP transport for lowest latency (when stability allows), or TCP for reliability

To capture footage that is optimal for 3D reconstruction and photogrammetry workflows within NDEVR, the recording format must prioritize image clarity, frame consistency, and minimal compression artifacts.

H.264 with High Bitrate or Intra-frame Codecs

• Use H.264 at very high bitrates (50+ Mbps) to reduce compression artifacts that can degrade 3D point cloud generation.
• For the highest quality, especially in controlled environments, use intra-frame codecs like Apple ProRes or DNxHR, which retain more detail across frames by avoiding inter-frame compression.
• Avoid variable frame rates; use constant frame rate for accurate frame indexing and alignment.

Container Format: MP4 or MOV

• MP4 is broadly supported and efficient for field capture and storage.
• MOV is preferred for professional workflows where frame-level accuracy and metadata preservation are more critical.

Configuration Tips