Securely isolate CCTV and radar or navigation networks using Thor Broadcast 4-channel encoders and decoders. Learn how one-way video distribution works with analogue break isolation, RTSP streaming, and compact industrial hardware.
In many maritime, defense, industrial, and critical infrastructure installations, CCTV video must be viewed on an operational network without allowing any return traffic back into the camera network. In this example, four CCTV channels originate on a dedicated CCTV LAN, are decoded into baseband video, and are then re-encoded for delivery onto a separate navigation network. The result is a clean one-way architecture that preserves visibility while supporting strong network segregation.
The key operational principle is simple: decode the source network video into a non-IP format, pass only the video signal across the boundary, and then create a brand-new stream on the isolated destination network. This means the destination side can view the video, but cannot communicate back to the original CCTV network.
Four camera streams exist on the CCTV network, such as 192.168.1.x. These streams stay inside the source LAN and are not routed into the isolated network.
A 4-channel decoder converts the CCTV IP streams into HDMI, SDI, VGA, or CVBS video outputs. At this point, the incoming network video becomes a baseband signal.
The handoff between the two domains happens at the video layer, not the network layer. This breaks direct IP visibility and eliminates two-way packet exchange.
A Thor encoder creates fresh multicast, unicast, RTP, UDP, or RTSP streams for the destination network, such as 192.168.0.x, where operator nodes can subscribe to the channels.
The following products are well suited for this application. Each option supports the required 4-channel workflow, but the best choice depends on footprint, signal format, and whether you need HDMI, SDI, analogue, or ASI integration on the destination side.
This is the most direct decoder option for the source side. It receives IP video and outputs multi-format baseband video, making it ideal when the system needs HDMI, SDI, VGA, or composite style handoff before isolation.
The Spartan-4 is a compact and efficient encoder for re-streaming four channels onto the isolated network. It is a strong fit where space is limited and UDP, RTP, unicast, or multicast delivery is required.
This family is suitable when future expansion is planned. If the project may grow from 4 channels to 8, 16, or 24 channels later, this platform offers a scalable path without changing the system concept.
The EMH-AC3 is a higher-end option for projects that may also need broadcast features or ASI output. It is a practical choice when the isolated destination network must feed other headend or transport systems in addition to operator viewing nodes.
The design does not bridge the two LANs together. Instead, it converts the source IP video into physical video outputs and then reconstructs a new stream on the destination side. Because the transfer occurs through a video layer handoff rather than IP routing, there is no direct path for reverse network communication.
Once re-encoded, the new destination-side streams can be published for local operator workstations, displays, or control nodes. Depending on the selected encoder and decoder pair, the delivery method may use RTSP, RTP, UDP unicast, or multicast.
The exact stream method and URL structure depend on the final product configuration and the customer network requirements.
Separates the camera LAN from the operational LAN without requiring a routed connection between them.
Uses proven encoder and decoder stages that are easy to understand, deploy, and support in the field.
Allows HDMI, SDI, VGA, CVBS, and IPTV workflows depending on the model selected.
Suitable for constrained installations where space, power, and cable routing are important design factors.
Transfer CCTV views into bridge, navigation, or control systems while preserving separation from shipboard surveillance networks.
Provide view-only situational awareness feeds to protected networks without introducing a return path.
Display safety or monitoring video on control system networks without exposing the source video LAN.
Support power, transport, utility, and infrastructure projects where one-way data flow is part of the security policy.
Thor Broadcast can provide a compact 4-channel encoder and decoder solution for isolated CCTV-to-operations network workflows. We can also help match the correct model based on output format, rack space, streaming protocol, and dimensional requirements.
Start with the product pages here: 4-Channel Decoder, Spartan-4 Encoder, HDPerfomux Series, and EMH-AC3.