New ARRI Network Interface Adapter NIA-1 expands camera and lens control via Ethernet

New ARRI Network Interface Adapter NIA-1 expands camera and lens control via Ethernet

Brie Clayton June 10, 2025

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Remote camera and lens control from anywhere through IP networks

Enhances the versatility of ARRI ECS and CSS tools

Ethernet connectivity expands control of third-party cameras

Compact design with simple plug-and-play setup and configuration

Wide-ranging cine, broadcast, and multi-camera applications

ARRI announces the Network Interface Adapter NIA-1, bridging modern IP workflows and traditional LBUS-based camera and lens control systems. By introducing Ethernet connectivity to the ARRI Electronic Control System (ECS), NIA-1 enables seamless integration, advanced remote control, and scalable multi-device configurations. ECS tools such as the Hi-5 hand unit can now function with negligible latency over an IP network, expanding third-party camera compatibility and benefitting both cine and live productions.

Compact, powerful, and robust, the NIA-1 features LBUS, Ethernet, and USB-C connectors. The status of each connector is displayed on the touchscreen, which provides an intuitive user interface. Besides the touchscreen, the NIA-1 can also be controlled from any device in the same network via a web interface. With the NIA-1, ARRI introduces the concept of network channels-a new and simple way to configure IP networks on a film set. Users just need to set the same network channel letter designation on each connecting device, for example the letter A' for the A-camera. Connection is fast and easy, with the NIA-1 automatically managing complex network settings, although manual IP configuration is also an option when incorporating the NIA-1 into advanced networks.

The NIA-1 improves and extends control of third-party cameras from within the ARRI ecosystem, which will be of particular interest to current and prospective Hi-5 owners. Instead of multiple specialist cables for different cameras, each with varying control limitations, the NIA-1 connects directly to the camera via a network, allowing much more comprehensive control of camera functions with ARRI ECS tools. Mounting the NIA-1 to any camera is made simple by the purpose-designed Rotary Release Adapter RRA-1, which has a quick-release dovetail interface and tough, all-metal construction.

At first customer shipment, the NIA-1 will offer compatibility with Blackmagic URSA Cine and Sony Burano cameras, activated through permanent licenses that can be purchased in the same way as other Hi-5 licenses. The existing Sony Camera Control License for Hi-5 will offer NIA-1 compatibility for the Venice camera with the release of the first NIA-1 software update, enabling significantly more advanced options for controlling the Venice with ARRI ECS devices.

Focus pullers and DITs may want to use the NIA-1 to remotely control lens or camera settings over IP networks. For simple setups, two NIA-1 units can be connected with an Ethernet cable up to 100 m long, or a fiber optic cable if longer distances need to be covered. One use case is underwater shots, where a submerged camera with a NIA-1 can be connected via Ethernet to another NIA-1 at the surface, as well as an ARRI RIA-1 that permits the focus puller to operate a Hi-5 untethered. For crane shots, an Ethernet cable can connect a NIA-1 on the camera to another at the crane base, reducing the radio signal distance for remote focus pulling. And for motion control or robot camera setups, the NIA-1 allows low-latency control of ARRI lens motors from anywhere in an IP network.

The NIA-1 also offers exciting possibilities for live broadcast productions, complementing ARRI's ALEXA 35 Live - Multicam System. The system's built-in secondary Ethernet tunnel is ideal for NIA-1 connectivity, allowing seamless integration with the ARRI LPS-1 and precise, real-time camera and lens control over vast distances. ARRI CSS products such the 360 EVO stabilized remote head are NIA-1 compatible, so they can be used together with ECS tools over a single Ethernet or fiber connection as part of a simple, plug-and-play setup.

Multi-camera applications are yet another area where the NIA-1 brings new advantages. Whether it's a 3D rig, a multi-camera array for VFX plate shots, or a beam-splitting rig for infrared capture, the NIA-1 enhances simultaneous control of lens motors and camera settings, including synchronized focus pulls even with different lens types and focal lengths.

The possibilities of NIA-1 applications are endless and include control of ARRI lens motors or cameras from third-party devices via IP. For this reason, ARRI is extending its partner program and encouraging third-party vendors to integrate ARRI ECS into their hardware and software products-from motion control robots to virtual production tools, and more besides.

The ARRI NIA-1 will be available in Q3 2025.

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