The rapid advancement of video transmission technologies is changing the way we experience real-time communication. We're getting more and more used to better quality video, at ever-higher transmission speeds.

Super-Smooth, Ultra-Fast HDMI

NTT is speeding things up even further with its development of technology to convert 4K Ultra HD, super-smooth (4K120Hz) and Full HD, ultra-fast (FHD240Hz) HDMI signals into long-distance transmission signals with an incredibly low delay of 0.1 milliseconds or less. This enables real-time interaction between geographically distant locations, creating the sensation of sharing the same physical space.

Before we get ahead of ourselves, let's look at what "4K120Hz" and "FHD240Hz" mean. The terms refer to resolution and refresh rate, two big factors in delivering high-quality video.

A 4K resolution of 3840 x 2160 pixels offers incredible detail, ideal for large displays or visually demanding applications. Combined with a refresh rate of 120Hz, the result is smoother motion, making it suitable for fast-paced content like gaming or sports.

Meanwhile, FHD240Hz focuses on ultra-rapid motion by refreshing the display 240 times per second, which is perfect for competitive gaming, where quick reactions are everything.

Both formats demand high-performance HDMI connections.

The Problem: Latency

Conventional technologies fall down when they try to transmit high-quality signals over long distances without compromising real-time performance. Signal compression and network constraints often lead to delays, which then result in degraded image and sound quality.

No Compression Necessary

NTT's solution doesn't require compression. Instead, it transmits uncompressed HDMI signals directly using the International Telecommunication Union-defined Optical Transport Network (OTN) standard and integrates seamlessly with the IOWN All-Photonics Network (APN). It's able to maintain high definition and stable motion, which means that the delay from input to output is negligible.

Flexible, Reconfigurable Integrated Circuit

The key to the innovation is FPGA-IP (Field Programmable Gate Array-Intellectual Property), a reconfigurable integrated circuit that combines hardware speed with software flexibility. This FPGA-IP allows the technology to adapt to various hardware configurations, such as the number of transmission ports or the physical size of the system. It supports the transmission of uncompressed video signals, which allows remote locations to display ultra-fast-moving images in high resolution, without any degradation.

Video With No Lag

It's a potential game-changer for immersive applications like virtual reality (VR) and augmented reality (AR), which rely on real-time, high-quality video to create environments where users feel present, even when far apart.

Here are just a handful more ways it could be used:

Remote Activities: Supporting activities like remote orchestral ensembles, chorus performances, and dance lessons, where synchronized, low-latency communication is essential.

Interactive Remote Events: Facilitating smooth remote interactions, such as debates and live comedy performances, by minimizing delay.

Remote Monitoring: Enabling real-time, high-definition monitoring of plant operations, railways, and traffic systems, areas where latency previously limited feasibility.

Telemedicine and Remote Surgery: Real-time, high-definition video transmission could allow surgeons to perform remote operations with precise visuals and minimal delay.

Disaster Response and Recovery: Providing high-definition video feeds for emergency management teams could improve coordination during natural disasters or other crises.

The Power of Photonics

The IOWN APN plays a crucial role in the new system. Its photonics-based technology allows APN to deliver ultra-high-speed, low-power communication, with multiple functions, such as internet communication and sensing, coexisting without interference. This gives a foundation strong and stable enough for low-latency, high-bandwidth uncompressed HDMI signal transmission.

The FPGA-IP system is available for licensing, which allows manufacturers to integrate NTT's technology into their products. As industries and society increasingly depend on real-time, high-definition communication, it's getting easier and easier to connect and collaborate across long distances.

For further information, please see this link:
https://group.ntt/en/newsrelease/2024/10/08/241008b.html

NTT—Innovating the Future of Communication

Daniel O'Connor

Daniel O'Connor joined the NTT Group in 1999 when he began work as the Public Relations Manager of NTT Europe. While in London, he liaised with the local press, created the company's intranet site, wrote technical copy for industry magazines and managed exhibition stands from initial design to finished displays.

Later seconded to the headquarters of NTT Communications in Tokyo, he contributed to the company's first-ever winning of global telecoms awards and the digitalisation of internal company information exchange.

Since 2015 Daniel has created content for the Group's Global Leadership Institute, the One NTT Network and is currently working with NTT R&D teams to grow public understanding of the cutting-edge research undertaken by the NTT Group.