ARRI has announced 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.

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.

Features include:

• 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

The ARRI NIA-1 will be available in Q3 2025. To learn more, visit www.arri.com/nia-1