MEP100: ST 2110 SmartNIC with PTP for live video over IP
The MEP100 is Macnica’s 100G ST 2110 SmartNIC, purpose-built for professional IP video applications that demand real-time performance, full redundancy, and precise timing. Designed to transform commercial off-the-shelf (COTS) servers into high-performance media processing platforms, the MEP100 is ideal for live broadcast, editing, remote production, and ProAV environments. With hardware-based ST 2110 packet processing, PTP synchronization, and ST 2022-7 hitless redundancy, the MEP100 delivers the performance and reliability required in today’s IP-based media infrastructure.
Built for Demanding IP Video Workflows
Engineered for speed and precision, the MEP100 combines robust hardware with an advanced development environment.
Key Features
- 100G performance: Dual 100 GbE (QSFP28) interfaces with ST 2022-7 redundancy
- Low-latency architecture: PCIe Gen4 x16 interface to host
- Real-time buffering: Up to five independent DDR4 memory banks
- PTP precision: Full support for IEEE 1588 Precision Time Protocol
- Protocol compliance: Compatible with SMPTE ST 2110-20, -22, -30, -31, and -40
- High stream capacity: Up to 8× 4K60 or 32× 1080p60 streams simultaneously
Built on an Intel® Altera Agilex® 7 FPGA and bundled with Macnica’s M2S SDK, the MEP100 empowers developers to quickly build scalable, synchronized IP media systems with integrated GStreamer plugins and NMOS (IS-04 and IS-05) support.
Redefining the Role of the SmartNIC in Live IP Production
The MEP100 is more than a network card. It’s a fully integrated media transport and processing engine that performs all critical tasks - packet handling, stream synchronization, and redundancy - in hardware, not software.
Why It’s Different:
- FPGA acceleration ensures ultra-low latency and offloads processing from the CPU.
- PTP synchronization provides precise time alignment across all sources and destinations.
- ST 2022-7 stream protection guarantees hitless redundancy even during interface failures.
- High scalability supports dense multi-stream workflows at up to 100 Gbps.
Whether you're managing multiple camera feeds in a broadcast studio or delivering synchronized media across a large-scale venue, the MEP100 ensures consistent timing, maximum bandwidth, and uncompromising reliability.
Solving Broadcast-Grade IP Video Challenges with PTP
Professionals in live production, post-production, and media distribution face three common IP video challenges:
- Latency and synchronization issues
- High CPU load from software-based packet handling
- Lack of redundancy in real-time workflows
The MEP100 solves all three:
- Hardware-based ST 2110 packet processing eliminates software bottlenecks.
- Built-in PTP support ensures frame-accurate sync across all media streams.
- Redundant stream reconstruction via ST 2022-7 maintains flawless performance - even under packet loss or failover conditions.
With the M2S SDK, developers can seamlessly integrate PTP synchronization and media streaming into their applications using familiar tools and APIs.
Real-World Use Cases for the MEP100 ST 2110 SmartNIC
The MEP100 is already making an impact across industries where low latency, synchronization, and 100G bandwidth are critical.
- Broadcast Studios
Enable frame-accurate management of multi-source feeds in high-end live productions and editing systems.
- Sports Venues and Arenas
Distribute ultra-low-latency video from multiple live cameras to LED displays and control rooms - perfectly synchronized via PTP.
- ProAV and Streaming Platforms
Build powerful software-based media solutions that maintain low CPU usage while delivering high-throughput IP video with precision timing.
- Digital Signage and Interactive Installations
Power synchronized video playout across multiple screens, ensuring flawless playback and accurate content delivery using standard servers and the MEP100 SmartNIC.
How to Get Started with the MEP100
With full support for ST 2110, PTP, ST 2022-7, and upcoming JPEG XS integration, the MEP100 is your hardware foundation for next-gen IP video applications. Compatible with Linux, Windows, and macOS, it integrates easily into most environments and workflows. If you're building a live production platform, remote IP editing system, or media-over-IP infrastructure, the MEP100 provides the bandwidth, reliability, and timing accuracy required to lead in today’s professional media landscape.
Contact Macnica today to request a demo or learn how the MEP100 can elevate your video operations.