Blackmagic Design ATEM SDI Pro ISO
ATEM SDI Pro ISO: HD switching, recording and multiview
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Model and scope
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ATEM SDI Pro ISO is a compact live production switcher with four HD 3G-SDI inputs, each with format conversion and re-sync. It can combine cameras and other compatible HD sources.
This guide covers Pro ISO, which adds streaming, multiview and ISO recording. It is neither the base ATEM SDI nor Extreme ISO. It operates in HD and does not accept Ultra HD; a 4K camera must feed a supported HD format to the switcher.
Inputs, outputs and audio
- Video
- Four 3G-SDI inputs and two SDI outputs. Inputs support documented 720p, 1080i and 1080p modes; system outputs are 1080p up to 60 fps. Inputs are not all retained in their original formats: the system uses the selected video standard.
- USB and network
- One USB-C port supports webcam output or storage connection according to the selected path. Ethernet supports control and direct streaming. When USB-C is occupied by a disk, the manual directs you to use Ethernet for ATEM Software Control.
- Audio
- Two 3.5 mm analog stereo inputs plus SDI embedded audio. Check mic/line level, On/Off/AFV and meters. This model outputs embedded audio and has no dedicated headphone output.
System requirements
HD sources and SDI cables suitable for the format, a compatible monitor and the manufacturer-specified external 12 V supply.
USB-C media compatible with sustained writing and enough space for all tracks. It supports exFAT or HFS+; an SSD’s product name or capacity alone does not establish ISO recording performance.
Compatible computer and ATEM Software Control for configuration; suitable network access and capacity for direct streaming. Record firmware and software versions before changing functions.
Basic preparation
- Confirm the Pro ISO label and record software, sources, program format and receivers. Prepare monitoring before going live.
- Select the ATEM HD standard and verify every input. Format conversion does not enable Ultra HD input or correct every unsupported signal.
- Assign each SDI output to program, a source or multiview as needed. The panel’s Video Out buttons select the source for SDI output 1; review other assignments in software.
- Choose the USB-C role and connect control over Ethernet when the disk occupies that port. Do not assume a hub is a validated way to combine webcam, disk and phone.
- In the recording palette, enable ISO record all inputs when you need four isolated inputs and program. Make a test recording, stop it with Stop and verify video, audio and the .drp project before the event.
Three technical questions
Why is program recorded without isolated cameras or the project?
Check that ISO record all inputs is enabled and inspect the complete folder for that take. The model saves four inputs and program as H.264 .mp4, plus audio and a DaVinci Resolve .drp project.
Check a short take closed with Stop, keeping the complete folder structure. If the project is absent despite the ISO files being present, record firmware, disk, take name and contents; no universal fix for that symptom was confirmed.
Can I use USB webcam output while keeping multiview on a monitor?
Multiview uses an SDI output configured for that function; webcam output uses USB-C. An HDMI monitor needs compatible SDI-to-HDMI conversion in the correct direction.
Distinguish this path from disk recording: there is only one USB-C port. Use Ethernet for control during recording; if a computer also needs video, evaluate an SDI path with compatible capture or direct streaming as appropriate for the receiver.
Why does recording flash or drop frames?
The manual distinguishes slow red flashing for low disk space from rapid flashing for insufficient media performance. Check disk status and space, the USB-C cable and media recommended for the intended use.
ISO recording requires sustained writing of multiple tracks. Test the complete setup with the actual configuration; back up data before formatting, because formatting erases it. Avoid changing several components at once during diagnosis.
Checks by symptom
| Symptom | Check | What it separates |
|---|---|---|
| No camera image | Supported HD output and SDI cable. | Camera format and ATEM input. |
| Program without ISO | ISO record all inputs and take folder. | Program recording and isolated tracks. |
| Program instead of multiview on monitor | SDI output assignment. | Routing and monitor failure. |
| Recording interrupted | Indicator, space and sustained writing. | Media capacity and performance. |
Limits and precautions
Operating environment: 5–40 °C, without condensation. Use compatible power, maintain ventilation and avoid mechanical strain on connectors.
The .drp file does not replace video and audio media. Keep the take’s media and structure together before editing or moving it.
Current documentation lists additional streaming and cloud functions; check firmware and notes before planning them. Do not start with an update or reset for routing or storage issues.
Official documentation
- Official ATEM SDI family page
- Specifications: ATEM SDI Pro ISO section
- Official ATEM SDI manual
- Support and recommended media
Accessed October 22, 2026. Current specifications were distinguished from July 2022 manual instructions; verify installed software.