Product OverviewThe BirdDog Mini HDMI to NDI Encoder/Decoder is a compact, aircraft-grade aluminum interface device for adding Full NDI® encoding or decoding to any HDMI source or display. In encoder mode, it converts HDMI sources — cameras, laptops, media players — into Full NDI® streams on a Gigabit Ethernet network. In decoder mode, it receives Full NDI® streams from the network and outputs them over HDMI to displays, projectors, or monitors. Powered by PoE, D-Tap, or 12V DC, the Mini is suited for production environments, digital signage distribution, house of worship installations, and any deployment that requires NDI in a compact, mountable form factor.Product DescriptionThe BirdDog Mini uses BirdDog's proprietary custom NDI silicon chip for line-based processing — the fastest possible Full NDI encoding and decoding in hardware. The unit encodes and decodes Full Bandwidth YUV422 NDI only (not NDI|HX), providing visually lossless video transmission at approximately 140Mbps at 1080p60. HDMI input and output are both active, with active loop-through available when in encode mode. A built-in NDI tally system requires zero configuration and activates automatically based on NDI program/preview state, with a large tally display for talent and a user-selectable tally border on the loop-out.Configuration is handled via BirdDog's web-based BirdUI — accessible from any browser on the same network. The RESTful API enables custom automation through Crestron, AMX, and Q-SYS. VESA and camera mount accessories make it easy to install behind screens or on camera rigs. Compatible with BirdDog Central for NDI routing and content distribution. Note: The BirdDog Mini has been announced as end-of-life by BirdDog; stock is available while supplies last. For a more compact current-generation NDI player, see the BirdDog Play.Key Features Full NDI® Encode and Decode — BirdDog custom silicon chip; line-based processing for lowest-latency Full NDI in hardware. Single-Click Mode Switch — Switch between encoder and decoder mode from the web interface without hardware changes. HDMI In/Out with Active Loop-Through — Maintain signal continuity to local monitors while encoding for the network. Built-In NDI Tally — Zero-configuration tally system with talent-visible display and loop-out tally border. PoE / D-Tap / 12V DC Power — Multiple power options for studio and field deployment; no wall adapter required with PoE. Aircraft-Grade Aluminum Housing — Built for production environments; compact form factor for rack, wall, or camera mounting. VESA and Camera Mount Compatible — Optional mounts for behind-screen VESA installation or camera rig attachment. RESTful API — DIY automation and control system integration (Crestron, AMX, Q-SYS). Typical Applications Broadcast studio House of worship Digital signage distribution Conference room Multi-purpose room Technical Specifications Specification Value NDI Protocol Full Bandwidth NDI® (YUV422) only — no NDI|HX Video Input HDMI Video Output HDMI (active loop-through in encode mode) Max Resolution 1080p60 Processing BirdDog custom NDI silicon chip; line-based processing Power PoE (IEEE 802.3af), D-Tap, or 12V DC adapter Tally Built-in NDI tally (zero-config); loop-out tally border Network Interface Gigabit Ethernet Housing Aircraft-grade aluminum Mounting Optional VESA (100×100mm) and camera mount accessories API RESTful API; BirdUI browser-based control Frequently Asked QuestionsDoes the Mini support NDI|HX?No. The BirdDog Mini encodes and decodes Full Bandwidth NDI® (YUV422) only. NDI|HX variants are not supported. Full NDI at 1080p60 operates at approximately 140Mbps and requires Gigabit Ethernet.Can the Mini be used as both an encoder and decoder simultaneously?No. The Mini operates in either encode mode or decode mode, configurable via the web interface. It cannot perform both functions at the same time.What is the maximum resolution?The BirdDog Mini supports up to 1080p60 encoding and decoding. For 4K NDI distribution, see BirdDog's 4K Family converters.Is the Mini still in production?BirdDog has announced the Mini as end-of-life (EOL). Stock is available while supplies last. For a current-generation NDI player, see the BirdDog Play.What PoE standard does the Mini require?Standard PoE (IEEE 802.3af) — the Mini draws less power than PoE+ cameras and is compatible with 802.3af switches.
