Rockchip RK3588 4K video encoder features four SDI inputs, four SDI loop outputs

Mekotronics R58-4×4 3U is yet another device based on Rockchip RK3588 from the company, but this product is a 4K video encoder with four SDI inputs, and four SDI loop outputs mirroring the SDI inputs.

SDI (Serial Digital Interface) inputs are used for transmitting uncompressed, unencrypted digital video signals and typically found in professional video production and broadcasting environments. The SDI interface can also be found in security cameras like the MOKOSE SHD50-2.8-12MM and I can also see it used in cameras designed for live streaming on YouTube, or other services. The main advantages of SDI over interfaces like USB, HDMI, or Ethernet, are that it can use longer cables up to 300 meters, offers better signal integrity, and has near zero latency. Compatibility for professional camera equipment is another advantage.

Let’s look at the Mekotronics R58-4×4 3U specifications:

SoC – Rockchip RK3588 octa-core processor with
- CPU – 4x CortexA76 cores @ up to 2.4 GHz, 4x CortexA55 core @ 1.8 GHz
- GPU – Arm Mali-G610 MP4 GPU with support for OpenGL ES 1.1/2.0/3.2, OpenCL 2.2, Vulkan 1.2
- Video decoder – 8Kp60 H.265, VP9, AVS2, 8Kp30 H.264 AVC/MVC, 4Kp60 AV1, 1080p60 MPEG-2/-1, VC-1, VP8
- Video encoder – 8Kp30 H.265/H.264 video encoder
- AI accelerator – 6 TOPS NPU
System Memory – 8GB LPDDR4x
Storage
- 64GB eMMC 5.1 flash
- M.2 M-Key (PCIe 3.0) socket for an M.2 2280 NVMe SSD
- MicroSD card slot
Video Output
- HDMI 2.1 port up to 8Kp60
- 4x SDI loop outputs mirroring the SDI inputs
Video Input – 4x SDI inputs; SD1 is 12Gbps (up to 4Kp60), SD2-4 are 3Gbps (up to 1080p60)
Audio – 3x 3.5mm audio jacks: Line-in, Line-out, and Audio (with microphone)
Display – 7-inch display on front panel
Networking
- Gigabit Ethernet RJ45 jack
- WiFi 6
- Optional 4G LTE/GPS module via mini PCIe socket and nano SIM card slot
- Up to two external antennas
USB – 2x USB 3.0 Type-A ports, 4x USB 2.0 Type-A ports, 1x USB Type-C port
Expansion
- M.2 socket for storage
- Mini PCIe socket + NanoSIM card slot for cellular connectivity
Misc – Power switch
Power Supply
- 110-240V AC input
- 12V DC power barrel jack
Dimensions – 3U enclosure

Mekotronics provides Android 12, Debian, and Armbian-built Debian/Ubuntu images for the video recorder. There’s also a Linux program called “Play&Record Video” demonstrated in the video below. In that video, Mike tested the solution with an external HDMI to SDI converter (Blackmagic HDMI to SDI 12G) to connect an HDMI source to the SDI 12G input of the R58-4×4 3U.

Mekotronics R58-4×4 3U 4K video encoder is sold on Made-in-China for $735 with an MOQ of 10 pieces. That’s quite more than expected for a Rockchip RK3588 device, but the high cost is likely due to the four SDI to MIPI CSI converters inside the device, and it’s a niche market… A few more details may also be found on the product page.

Jean-Luc Aufranc (CNXSoft)

Jean-Luc started CNX Software in 2010 as a part-time endeavor, before quitting his job as a software engineering manager, and starting to write daily news, and reviews full time later in 2011.