Vaxis recently released an upgraded version of their Atom A5 monitor with wireless video monitor/recorder capabilities: the Atom A5 SDI. As its name suggests, this upgraded version has SDI video input and output ports but still features HDMI input/output ports. So, let’s take a closer look at this compact and affordable wireless video system!
The Vaxis Atom 500 wireless video system was launched in 2020, followed later by the Atom 600 KV for the RED Komodo. In November 2021, Vaxis introduced the Atom A5H monitor to create a fully integrated wireless video ecosystem. The company is back with a revamped and upgraded version of the original Atom A5H: the Atom A5 SDI.
Vaxis Atom A5 SDI – features
Similarly to the previous HDMI-only Atom A5H model, the Atom A5 SDI features a 5.5-inch display with a 1920 x 1080 resolution. However, the display has been upgraded with a maximum brightness of 2,000nits and a 1200:1 contrast ratio, which makes it perfectly daylight-viewable.
Each Atom A5 SDI can be used as a wireless video receiver or transmitter; you only have to select its mode in the menu system. Furthermore, one transmitter can connect to up to two receivers, and the A5 SDI is compatible with other Vaxis Atom models.
The Atom A5 SDI measures 151 x 92 x 30.5mm/7.5 x 3.6 x 1.2in and weighs 360g/9.17oz without batteries.
Talking about power, you can power the Atom A5 SDI via two Sony NP-F batteries at the back of the monitor or via the USB-C port on the left side. Furthermore, you’ll also find HDMI input and output ports and a 3.5mm headphone jack on the left side.
Connectivity
The SDI video input and output ports are located on the right side of the Vaxis Atom A5 SDI. The monitor supports a maximum video input/output of 1920 x 1080 at 60p. Please note that one monitor doesn’t support cross-conversion from HDMI input to SDI output or SDI input to HDMI output. However, if you use a pair of monitors, the transmitter can connect via HDMI, and the receiver can output via SDI and vice versa.
As you can see, an SD card slot is also on the right side. You can record footage on the SD card for instant playback/review, which can be handy. Consider this feature as a “scratch/review recording,” but don’t expect the same high-quality external recording that an Atomos monitor/recorder could deliver, for example.
You’ll find new mini-mushroom-style antennas at the top of the Atom A5 SDI. Two antennas are 2.4 GHz, and two are 5 GHz, so the monitor can switch between bandwidths automatically to avoid interferences. According to Vaxis, the transmission range is 300m/1000ft, and it has a latency of 70ms.
At the top and bottom of the monitor, you’ll find 1/4″-20 mounting points with locating pins.
Lastly, the Vaxis Atom A5 SDI is powered by the company’s AOS and includes all the monitoring you might need, including Waveform, Peaking, 3D LUTS, HDR monitoring, False Color, Zebra, Histogram, Image Zoom, and so on.
Pricing and availability
The Vaxis Atom A5 SDI is available now for $539. You’ll find four antennas, a 32Gb SD card, one SDI cable, a screen protector, and the instruction guide in the box. A dual monitor package is also available for $1099 and includes an extra monitor strap, tripod, and carrying case. Lastly, an optional cage is available for $74.90, and NATO handles for the cage will cost you an extra $34.90.
For more information, please visit Vaxis’ website here.
What do you think about the Vaxis Atom A5 SDI? Have you already used Vaxis wireless video systems on one of your projects? What is your go-to wireless video system? Don’t hesitate to let us know in the comments below!
