EVS XT3 12 channels MAX – Slow Motion Server

Yes. The XT3 supports mixed-resolution recording across its 12 channels—you can run 4K on some channels and HD on others simultaneously. Storage consumption scales significantly with 4K: budget approximately 1.3 TB/hour per 4K channel at full frame rate. The system uses high-capacity SSD storage with redundant RAID configurations; confirm your intended format mix, frame rate, and recording duration with your reseller to size the storage array correctly. Redundancy overhead typically doubles your raw capacity requirement.

The XT3 connects via 12G-SDI for video I/O, Dante for audio, 10 Gigabit Ethernet for control and data, and USB 3.0 for file transfer. It supports NMOS, AES, MOS, and Grass Valley Ignite integration, enabling control from your existing production switcher, router, and graphics engine. Plan for a dedicated Ethernet network segment for the XT3 to ensure low-latency control and reliable metadata flow. Confirm your current control system's compatibility level—full MOS integration typically requires setup and testing specific to your production environment.

The XT3 is designed for sustained multichannel capture in live broadcast scenarios. However, 12 simultaneous 4K channels at full frame rate represents peak load; confirm your actual operational profile (typical format and channel count mix) with EVS technical support to validate feasibility for your specific scenario. The 7U chassis includes cooling provisions, but OB van integration requires adequate ventilation—plan for ambient temperature monitoring and airflow management. Dual redundant power supplies reduce single-point failure risk; verify your power distribution can support the total system draw under sustained operation.

The XT3 offers backup storage systems and redundant RAID configurations to protect against single-drive failure. However, the specific RAID level (5, 6, or hybrid) and failover behavior depend on your storage configuration—confirm these details with your reseller during system design. Best practice: deploy RAID 6 or redundant storage arrays for mission-critical live events, with automated monitoring and alert thresholds. Document your recovery procedure and test it before deployment. Understand the failover latency and whether recording continues seamlessly during a rebuild cycle.

The XT3 natively supports 12G-SDI connectivity and handles multiple frame rates (23.98fps to 60fps, including 50fps and 59.94fps) on independent channels without requiring external conversion. However, frame-accurate sync between incoming SDI feeds and playback depends on your router and sync reference distribution. Ensure your facility has a robust master sync chain (word clock or tri-level sync) distributed to the XT3 and all ingest sources. If mixing formats or frame rates, confirm the XT3's frame-rate conversion behavior and any latency implications with technical support before committing to a critical workflow.

The XT3 runs a dedicated Linux-based broadcast operating system maintained by EVS. Firmware updates provide feature additions, codec optimizations, and security patches. Updates typically require a system restart, so plan maintenance windows outside of live event schedules. Confirm the current firmware version, supported upgrade path, and any breaking changes with your reseller before purchase. Establish a staged testing protocol: deploy updates in your spare XT3 or lab environment first, validate compatibility with your control systems and storage configuration, then schedule production deployments during low-risk periods.

The XT3 is fixed at 12 independent channels per unit; additional capacity requires deploying additional XT3 systems. For critical applications (major sports broadcasts), consider a two-unit configuration where one unit provides active replay and the second unit shadows the feed for hot-standby failover. Multi-system architectures are best managed through your MOS control system, which can orchestrate channel routing and failover logic. Confirm the bandwidth and control protocol overhead with your IT department; Ethernet infrastructure must support multiple units exchanging high-bitrate video streams and metadata simultaneously.

The primary wear item is the SSD storage array, which degrades over time with write cycles. Budget for storage replacement every 2–4 years depending on utilization and workload intensity. The dual redundant power supplies are typically field-replaceable but should be stocked as spares. The system is sealed 7U 19-inch rack format with no user-serviceable internal components; major repairs require EVS service. Establish a spare parts agreement covering PSUs and a spare storage module. Coordinate maintenance windows with your broadcast schedule; even preventive PSU swaps require a brief shutdown. Request detailed documentation of MTBF (mean time between failure) and typical lead times for service.

The XT3 supports both 1080i and 1080p independently across its 12 channels—you can mix standards on different channels without issue. However, each channel maintains its own format for capture and playback; format conversion between channels is not automatic and must be handled by external processing if required. Verify compliance with your broadcast standards authority (FCC, EBU, etc.) regarding output formatting. If you need to deliver both interlaced and progressive outputs from the same source, plan for external de-interlacing or re-interlacing hardware in your signal chain. Document your format matrix before commissioning to avoid runtime surprises during live events.

Yes. Our used and ex-demo units undergo a full functional inspection — sensors, video outputs, control signals, optics and mechanics — including a colorimetry and sensitivity test. Each product is tested by our technicians and comes with a 90-day warranty. Contact us for the specific warranty terms of the unit you are interested in.