The BirdDog PLAY PRO is a compact NDI-to-HDMI 2.0 decoder designed to put UHD 4K video from an NDI network directly onto a display. It supports NDI and NDI HX3 and switches between sources without delay or black frames. It adds practical extras such as PoE, KVM over IP, BirdUI browser control, and VESA mounting for clean integration behind screens or inside installed AV systems.
BirdDog PLAY PRO 4K NDI/NDI HX Decoder Key Features:
- NDI to HDMI 2.0 decoder outputs network video to local displays
- Connects to an NDI network through Gigabit Ethernet
- Supports UHD 4K output at up to 60 Hz over HDMI
- Decodes both full NDI and NDI HX3 video streams
- Switches instantly between NDI sources without black frames
- KVM over IP support allows remote control with keyboard and mouse
- PoE support enables single-cable power and network installation
- HDMI CEC and NDI remote control support simplify display operation
- BirdUI browser control gives quick access to setup and settings
- Compact metal housing runs smaller and quieter than the previous model
- Includes VESA mount kit for displays, cabinets and fixed installations
- USB-C power input provides an alternative when PoE is unavailable
FAQs:
What does the PLAY PRO actually do in an NDI setup?
It takes video from an NDI network and converts it to HDMI 2.0 for a local monitor or display. That makes it useful for confidence monitors, return feeds, camera feeds, and other viewing points away from the main switcher. In practice, it is a straightforward way to place network video where you need it without running traditional video cabling the whole way. It is especially useful in installed systems where displays need to stay tidy and easy to manage.
Does it support full 4K output?
Yes. The PLAY PRO supports HDMI output up to UHD 4K at 60 Hz, which is useful when feeding modern 4K displays with smooth motion. For IP decoding, it supports full NDI at up to 1080p60 and H.264, as well as NDI HX2 and NDI HX3, up to 4K30. That distinction is important because the HDMI output capability and the incoming stream format are not the same. It provides a flexible decoder for both high-quality HD NDI and compressed 4K NDI HX workflows.
Can it be powered over the network cable?
Yes. The RJ45 port supports PoE, the primary power method for the unit. That means you can handle power and network connections through a single cable, making installation much cleaner behind displays or inside AV racks. If PoE is unavailable, there is also a USB-C port for power. That extra option is useful when you are adding the unit to a simpler setup without PoE switching.
How does the KVM function work?
The PLAY PRO includes KVM over IP support, so you can connect a keyboard and mouse to its two USB-A ports and take control of a remote Mac or PC across the network. That is useful in control rooms, digital signage setups, and installed environments where the computer itself is not in the same place as the screen. It adds more value than a basic decoder because it can support remote operation and video display.
Is it easy to install discreetly behind a display?
Yes. BirdDog includes a VESA and multi-mount kit, and the unit supports both 100 x 100mm and 75 x 75mm VESA mounting. With dimensions of 7.6 x 7.6 x 2.8cm and a weight of 158g, it is compact enough to tuck behind a monitor, inside a cabinet, or under a desk. The metal housing also gives a solid feel. When combined with PoE, it is designed to disappear into fixed AV setups neatly.
Product Specification
| Dimensions | 76mm x 76mm x 28mm |
| Input | Output | 1x HDMI 2.0 – Full size connector (Video), Stereo audio over HDMI 2.0; Analogue audio output supported. |
| Power Source | Power Input: USB-C or PoE Voltage: 5V DC, PoE (802.3af) Current: 2A |
| Video resolution | UHD 2160p – 25, 29.97, 30, 50, 59.94, 60 HD 1080p – 25, 29.97, 30, 50, 59.94, 60 HD 720p – 30, 50, 59.94, 60 |
| Weight [g] | 158.00 |
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Your flexible credit options available
Interest Bearing
with a choice of repayment plans over 24 or 36 months 13.9% APR (representative)Buy now pay later
36 month loan with a six month deferral period, 18.9% APR (representative)Interest Bearing Finance
This option comprises term loan with a choice of repayment plans over:
- 24 months
- 36 months
The balance of the finance agreement is payable directly to Novuna Consumer Finance in equal monthly instalments by monthly direct debit. The direct debit payments will commence at the end of the first month following receipt of your goods. The interest rate charged is 13.9% APR (representative). Late payment and early repayment penalties apply; full details of these will be provided in the loan agreement pack.
For customers based in the Channel Island, please call us to apply for finance
| 24 Months | 36 Months | |
|---|---|---|
| Cash price | £323.00 | £323.00 |
| Deposit | £0.00 | £0.00 |
| Loan Amount | £323.00 | £323.00 |
| Monthly Instalment | 23 x £15.37 | 35 x £10.90 |
| Final Instalment | £15.37 | £10.90 |
| Total Amount Repayable | £368.88 | £392.40 |
| Representative | 13.9% APR | 13.9% APR |
Buy now pay later
The Buy Now Pay Later option comprises a 36 month loan following a six month deferral period.
During the six-month deferral period, it is possible to pay off the loan, either by way of a lump sum or in smaller amounts. If the loan is partially repaid within six months, the remaining interest will be adjusted to reflect the new balance. If the loan is fully repaid within the six-month deferral period, then no interest is payable, however, a £29 early settlement fee is payable in respect of repayments within these six months.
Following the six-month deferral period, Novuna Personal Finance will initiate a monthly direct debit payment for the remaining duration of the loan. Interest will be charged at a rate of 18.9% APR (representative) on outstanding balances (backdated to the first date of the loan). Novuna Personal Finance will send a reminder letter approximately one month before the six-month deferral period is due to elapse.
For customers based in the Channel Island, please call us to apply for finance
| Balance settled in full within the six month deferral period | Balance NOT settled in full within the six month deferral period | |
|---|---|---|
| Cash price | £300 | £300 |
| Deposit | £0 | £0 |
| Loan Amount | £300 | £300 |
| Settlement fee | £29 | £0 |
| Settlement payment | £329 | - |
| Monthly Instalment | - | 36 x £11.57 |
| Total Amount Repayable | £329 | £416.52 |
| Representative | 18.9% APR | 18.9% APR |