Network Design for Video Production Setups

One of the most critical (and often overlooked until the last minute) aspects of modern video production is network design. Network stability directly affects livestream quality, video encoding and decoding over IP, PTZ camera control, device discovery, and overall system reliability. Whether you are operating a simple one camera setup or a multi camera production environment, choosing the right network architecture is essential.

In this article, we’ll review the most common network design approaches used in PTZ camera based video production systems. Each design is categorized by system size, complexity, and typical use case, helping you determine which option best fits your application. Additionally, we’ll cover what the best practices are for each design. 

1. Direct Connection Setup (Point to Point Connection)

Use Case:
Small, portable, or temporary setups with minimal equipment.

Description:
In a direct connection setup, the PTZ camera connects directly to a single device, such as:

• A PC running control and streaming software, or
• A PTZ joystick controller for camera operation (Would require local recording capabilities)

In some cases, the camera may record internally (for example, models like the BG-ADAMO series), allowing footage to be edited and uploaded during post production rather than streamed live. This scenario works well with setups using just a camera and controller with no PC to stream. 

Key Considerations:

• All devices must be on the same IP subnet
• Static IP configuration is required
• Power supplies are required, as PoE is not typically used
• Cable runs are usually short due to proximity to power sources
• CAT5e, CAT6, or CAT7 cables are recommended

Advantages:

• Very simple to deploy
• Minimal networking knowledge required
• Ideal for quick, on the go setups or compact spaces

Limitations:

• Not scalable
• Requires manual IP management
• Limited redundancy and flexibility

2. Simple Unmanaged PoE Switch Setup

Use Case:
Small multi camera systems in compact or mobile environments.

Description:
This setup uses a small unmanaged PoE switch to provide both network connectivity and power. Typical connected devices include:

• One or more PTZ cameras
• A joystick controller
• A PC for streaming or recording
• Optional video switcher (HDMI/SDI based or IP enabled)

Many video switchers still rely on HDMI for video transport and USB for streaming, but some models also support IP based control or streaming.

Key Considerations:

• All devices must be on the same network
• Static IP addressing is recommended to avoid conflicts
• Power supplies are usually unnecessary unless PoE budget is exceeded
• Best practice is to keep this network isolated from the main corporate or building network

Advantages:

• Simplified cabling with PoE
• Easy to expand within limits
• Portable and space-efficient
• Ideal for small studios or mobile productions

Limitations:

• No traffic management or VLAN support
• Bandwidth congestion can occur if connected to larger networks
• Limited troubleshooting and monitoring capabilities

3. Managed PoE Switch Setup (Advanced / Enterprise)

Use Case:
Large scale, permanent, or shared network production environments.

Description:
This design is built around a managed PoE switch, often integrated into a broader IT infrastructure. Devices may include:

• Multiple PTZ cameras
• Joystick controllers
• Video switchers
• Streaming and recording PCs
• Additional AV-over-IP or control systems

A router is typically hardwired into the network, allowing devices to obtain IP addresses via DHCP and enabling multiple systems to discover and control the same devices.

Key Considerations:

• Use DHCP for initial IP assignment, then reserve or convert addresses to static
• VLANs and port configuration are commonly used to isolate video, control, and general traffic
• CAT6 or CAT7 cabling is strongly recommended for reliability over longer distances
• Power supplies may be optional depending on the PoE budget
• PCs may require multiple network adapters or IP addresses if equipment spans multiple networks

Advantages:

• Highly scalable and robust
• Supports traffic prioritization and segmentation
• Ideal for permanent installations and professional broadcast environments
• Allows multiple operators and systems to access the same devices

Limitations:

• Higher complexity
• Requires network planning and IT knowledge
• Typically not suitable for mobile setups

Final Thoughts

Regardless of system size, here are the best practices:

• Ensuring all devices are on the same network
• Avoiding IP conflicts
• Using high-quality Ethernet cabling
• Planning power and bandwidth requirements in advance

A well-designed network not only improves performance today but also allows your production system to grow and adapt over time.