What should you look for when selecting a video encoder for mission-critical ISR and defense applications? In this blog post, we’ll explain the top six factors to consider to help you make the right decision.

#1 Low Latency

For many defense applications, such as at test and training ranges, low latency video is of the utmost importance for real-time monitoring. The same goes for intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance (ISR) applications in the case of autonomous platforms where the video is being used for navigation. Using an unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) or a surface vessel out at sea, lag in a video feed is simply not tolerable when you have someone trying to steer a vehicle remotely.

For situational awareness use cases, the ability to operate and rely on real-time video is essential when it comes to making informed decisions. In short, no one wants to deal with high latency in video when conducting mission-critical applications.

#2 High-Quality Video at Low Bitrates

In many defense operations, the bandwidth you would need to distribute video is often limited, which can lead to considerable video degradation such as pixelation or choppiness because of jitter and packet loss. Compromised video quality has a direct impact on operations, specifically on the processing and exploitation segments of the intelligence cycle. Cells of analysts review live video streams to develop actionable intelligence that informs real-time critical decision making. Therefore, it is essential to choose a video encoder that can deliver high-quality video even at very low bitrates for these types of bandwidth-constrained environments.

#3 Encoding Reliability

When it comes to mission-critical operations, failure is not an option; users need a video encoder that they can depend on. It needs to be suited to the environment in which it operates whether it be air, ground, or maritime platforms, and must meet the stringent physical, data, and security standards required by defense organizations. Specific to the reliability of a video encoder’s functionality, there are MISB standards for interoperability, integrity, and quality of motion imagery and associated metadata as well as STIGs (Security Technical Implementation Guides), a series of security guides to ensure protection against malicious actors. Read more about defense standards for video encoding and decoding here.

#4 Reliable, Ruggedized Components

ISR operations demand equipment capable of withstanding extreme conditions. Video encoders must be engineered to endure shock, vibration, and extreme temperatures. Designed to operate in air, ground, and maritime environments, these ruggedized devices must meet stringent military standards to ensure uninterrupted performance.

Haivision’s Makito encoders exemplify this level of ruggedness. Compliant with rigorous standards like DO-160, MIL-STD-810G, and MIL-STD-1275E, Makito encoders are built to thrive in the harshest conditions. Models like the Makito X4 Rugged, housed in a compact rugged enclosure, are optimized for rapid deployment and immediate operation in demanding field environments.

#5 Ease of Use

When selecting a video encoder for ISR and defense applications, prioritize ease of use. Choose an encoder with a simple, intuitive interface and straightforward configuration to minimize training time and operational errors. A “set and forget” design ensures the encoder operates consistently without needing frequent adjustments, freeing up valuable time to focus on the mission at hand.

#6 Industry Expertise and Customer Support

Of course, it’s not just the hardware or software that matters, choosing a video encoder from a company with deep domain expertise, industry knowledge, and video experts that fully understand your use case, the challenges that you face, and the environment in which you operate are critical. Choose a vendor that offers support to help you protect your hardware and software investments with access to leading video experts who can quickly diagnose and troubleshoot technical, network, and system challenges.

Which Video Encoder is Right for My Application?

Across all the industries it serves, Haivision has become a brand synonymous with high-quality, secure, ultra-low latency video. Our flagship Makito family of video encoders and decoders is trusted and relied upon by defense organizations worldwide to power their high-quality, low latency workflows.