New Arri network interface adapter expands camera and lens control via Ethernet
Arri has unveiled the network interface adapter NIA-1, bridging modern IP workflows and traditional LBUS-based camera and lens control systems. By introducing Ethernet connectivity to the Arri Electronic Control System (ECS), NIA-1 enables seamless integration, advanced remote control, and scalable multi-device configurations. ECS tools such as the Hi-5 hand unit can now function with negligible latency over an IP network, expanding third-party camera compatibility and benefitting both cine and live productions.
Compact, powerful, and robust, the NIA-1 features LBUS, Ethernet, and USB-C connectors. The status of each connector is displayed on the touchscreen, which provides an intuitive user interface. Besides the touchscreen, the NIA-1 can also be controlled from any device in the same network via a web interface. With the NIA-1, Arri introduces the concept of network channels – a new and simple way to configure IP networks on a film set. Users just need to set the same network channel letter designation on each connecting device, for example the letter ‘A’ for the A-camera. Connection is fast and easy, with the NIA-1 automatically managing complex network settings, although manual IP configuration is also an option when incorporating the NIA-1 into advanced networks.
The NIA-1 improves and extends control of third-party cameras from within the Arri ecosystem, which will be of particular interest to current and prospective Hi-5 owners. Instead of multiple specialist cables for different cameras, each with varying control limitations, the NIA-1 connects directly to the camera via a network, allowing much more comprehensive control of camera functions with Arri ECS tools. Mounting the NIA-1 to any camera is made simple by the purpose-designed rotary release adapter RRA-1, which has a quick-release dovetail interface and tough, all-metal construction.
At first customer shipment, the NIA-1 will offer compatibility with Blackmagic URSA Cine and Sony Burano cameras, activated through permanent licences that can be purchased in the same way as other Hi-5 licences. The existing Sony Camera Control Licence for Hi-5 will offer NIA-1 compatibility for the Venice camera with the release of the first NIA-1 software update, enabling significantly more advanced options for controlling the Venice with Arri ECS devices.
Focus pullers and DITs may want to use the NIA-1 to remotely control lens or camera settings over IP networks. For simple setups, two NIA-1 units can be connected with an Ethernet cable up to 100 m long, or a fiber optic cable if longer distances need to be covered. One use case is underwater shots, where a submerged camera with a NIA-1 can be connected via Ethernet to another NIA-1 at the surface, as well as an Arri RIA-1 that permits the focus puller to operate a Hi-5 untethered. For crane shots, an Ethernet cable can connect a NIA-1 on the camera to another at the crane base, reducing the radio signal distance for remote focus pulling. And for motion control or robot camera setups, the NIA-1 allows low-latency control of Arri lens motors from anywhere in an IP network.
The NIA-1 also offers possibilities for live broadcast productions, complementing Arri’s Alexa 35 Live – Multicam System. The system’s built-in secondary Ethernet tunnel is ideal for NIA-1 connectivity, allowing integration with the Arri LPS-1 and precise, real-time camera and lens control over vast distances. Arri CSS products such as the 360 EVO stabilised remote head are NIA-1 compatible, so they can be used together with ECS tools over a single Ethernet or fibre connection as part of a simple, plug-and-play setup.
Multi-camera applications are another area where the NIA-1 brings new advantages. Whether it’s a 3D rig, a multi-camera array for VFX plate shots, or a beam-splitting rig for infrared capture, the NIA-1 enhances simultaneous control of lens motors and camera settings, including synchronised focus pulls even with different lens types and focal lengths.