# NDI NDI is a network protocol that enables audio, video, and metadata signals to be sent over standard networks in real-time. Broadcast-quality video in a high-quality, low-latency # What is NDI?
**NDI (Network Device Interface)** is a technology developed by NewTek that allows video, audio, and data to be shared across a local network in real-time. It’s commonly used in live production environments but has endless possibilities for creative applications, especially in theater, performance art, and interactive installations.
Simply said; Imagine you have a projector, a computer, and a camera, and you want them all to "talk" to each other without using a bunch of messy cables. NDI lets these devices send and receive high-quality video and audio over your Wi-Fi or Ethernet network as if they were physically connected. It’s like sending video files across your network instantly—without needing to export or transfer anything.
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### **What Can You Do with NDI?**
1. **Stream Video Between Devices:** - Send live video from one computer to another (e.g., send a TouchDesigner, Isadora or Resolume output to a projection laptop). - Use your phone or tablet as a wireless camera for your performance or installation. 2. **Mix Media in Real-Time:** - Combine multiple video feeds in software like OBS Studio or VJ tools like Resolume for live shows. - Add live effects or layers to your video feeds. 3. **Integrate with Performance Tools:** - Share a live camera feed on stage with a projection in real-time. - Sync visuals with music or sound effects in live performances. 4. **Collaborative Artwork:** - Share content between artists' devices in a multi-user environment, such as during a workshop or live performance. - Use it for interactive installations where different pieces of hardware (cameras, projectors, or phones) are part of the experience. ---
### **Why should I use NDI?**
- **Flexibility:** No need to move everything into one computer. Let every device do what it does best while connecting them via a network. - **Cost-Effective:** Avoid buying expensive video switchers or capture cards; NDI works with your existing network. - **Collaboration:** Great for team projects where multiple artists contribute video, sound, or interaction in real-time. - **Live Creativity:** Perform and tweak visuals or sounds on the fly, ideal for improvisational art or performances. ---
### **What Do You Need?**
1. A device that supports NDI (most computers and some cameras do, check out apps like [ZIGCAM (mac)](https://apps.apple.com/jp/app/zigcam/id1570755292 "ZigCam") or [NDI CAMERA (android)](https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.specialprojects.stream "not tested"). 2. Software like **OBS Studio**, **TouchDesigner**, **Isadora** or **Resolume**, which can send or receive NDI streams. 3. A local network (Ethernet is better for speed; Wi-Fi works but might have delays, especially with more than 1 stream).
want to know more: [what-is-ndi-everything-you-need-to-know](https://www.techradar.com/news/what-is-ndi-everything-you-need-to-know "techradar") # awesome-ndi (github resource) [https://github.com/florisporro/awesome-ndi](https://github.com/florisporro/awesome-ndi) > Network Device Interface is a royalty-free software standard developed by NewTek to enable video-compatible products to communicate, deliver, and receive broadcast-quality video in a high-quality, low-latency manner that is frame-accurate and suitable for switching in a live production environment. > This is a curated list of tools related to NDI.