HEM-4K: An Encoder Core for Camera Integration, System Building, and OEM Development
1. Introduction: The HEM-4K for Professional Video Applications
Modern video systems require devices that are flexible and capable of handling 4K. The HEM-4K is a compact, low-power encoder module that processes both HDMI and UVC signals from cameras, encoding them for IP networks. It serves as a reliable "bridge" for system integrators and a "core" for original equipment manufacturers (OEMs) developing their own products.
2. Professional System Integrators & AV/IT Solution Providers
When you build and deploy video systems for clients in enterprise, education, control rooms, and live events, you require flexible hardware that fits seamlessly into existing IP networks and supports a wide range of industry-standard streaming protocols. So you are looking for a solution with easy installation, reliable 24/7 performance, and compatibility with various video sources.
When you build specialized products like medical devices, drones, robotics, and security systems, you need a small, easy-to-integrate, and power-efficient module that can serve as the video processing "brain" of your new product. So you are looking for a solution that has value design flexibility, reduces time-to-market, and operates in low power.
3. Key Features and Benefits for Your Application
3.1 Flexible Camera Integration (HDMI + UVC)
The HEM-4K is a compact 4K HDMI/UVC encoder module designed for professional video integration. It accepts 4K@30Hz input from HDMI 2.0 and USB-C (UVC) cameras.Your video sources may include professional PTZ cameras (via HDMI) and USB webcams (via UVC). HEM-4K supports both input formats simultaneously. This allows for real-time switching between sources, making it suitable for complex presentations and multi-camera productions.
3.2 Powerful 4K Encoding and Multi-Protocol Streaming
The HEM-4K uses HEVC/H.265 and H.264 codecs for efficient 4K video compression at resolutions up to 2160p@30Hz. With comprehensive protocol support for SRT, RTMP, RTSP, RTSP-to-SRT, and ONVIF, the HEM-4K ensures seamless compatibility with cloud platforms, video management systems (VMS), and security NVR systems.
3.3 OEM-Ready Design
The HEM-4K's status as a "module" is its key advantage for product developers. We provide the hardware design guide to help you create a custom I/O baseboard. This lets you integrate the encoding core into your own device, adding interfaces like RS232, GPS, or analog audio, making it a flexible core for drones, medical devices, and robotics.
3.4 Integrated Recording – SD Card & NAS Storage
The HEM-4K supports recording to SD card or NAS storage during live streaming. This provides built-in redundancy and ensures you never miss critical footage.
- SD Card Recording: Record directly to a local SD card for reliable backup. Videos can be downloaded remotely via the Web UI without physical access.
- NAS Recording: Save recordings directly to your network storage for centralized management and virtually unlimited capacity.
With real-time recording during streaming, the HEM-4K ensures both live broadcast and archival storage happen simultaneously without performance compromise. All recordings are easily managed and downloaded through the Web UI.
3.5 GPS Positioning & Remote Control
The HEM-4K comes with a dedicated GPS interface for real-time location tracking. When connected to a GPS module, it overlays latitude, longitude, altitude, speed, and time directly onto the video stream as OSD data. This is critical for command dispatch, remote rescue, drone operations, and mobile live productions where knowing the exact location of the video source is essential.
Additionally, the encoder supports DDNS for remote control over the public internet. You can access and configure the HEM-4K via a domain name without VPN, making it easy to manage devices deployed in the field from anywhere.
3.6 Designed for 24/7 Reliability
With ultra-low power consumption of just 4W, powered via a standard USB-C connection, the HEM-4K generates minimal heat. This allows for passive cooling and reliable 24/7 operation, which is essential for security monitoring and medical applications.
4. System Integration Architecture
The HEM-4K can be deployed as the central processing node, connecting camera sources to an IP network.
This diagram shows a sample workflow:
An HDMI Camera and a USB Camera connect to the HEM-4K Module. The module encodes the signal and sends it over an Ethernet Network. The IP streams are then routed to several destinations: a Cloud Platform (via SRT/RTMP), a VMS/NVR (via ONVIF/RTSP) for recording, and a Decoder (e.g., DDMALL HDD-20) for a low-latency display.
5. OEM Integration Concept
The module can be the core of your new product.
This diagram shows how the HEM-4K sits at the center of a custom product, connected to a Custom I/O Baseboard (designed using our guide) to create a final device like a Medical Video System or a Drone Video Transmitter.
6. Conclusion
The HEM-4K offers a combination of flexibility, performance, and integration. Whether you are a system integrator building a professional AV network or an OEM developer creating a new product, the HEM-4K provides a professional 4K encoding solution for your project.
For detailed specifications or to request the OEM Hardware Design Guide, contact our sales team directly at market-vp@ddmalltech.com
Click here to HEM-4K Product Page.