CI0, RIO, RIO-Live: What are the differences?

• The CI0 is an IP interface for serial-based controlled cameras, like most mini-cameras or Sony camcorders. It is a low-level converter that can be used for more than camera protocols as it also controls ENG or PL lenses, motors, gimbals, etc. The control data is sent by the RCP, though, so a CI0 unit alone doesn't communicate at all.
  
  
  
• The RIO was introduced to embed in the interface all the higher level protocols and directly drive cameras. This allows the communication between a RIO and RCP to be carried over latency networks such as cellular or simply the public internet. A RIO runs the same software as the RCP but provides a built-in CI0 for serial ports. It also controls cameras over USB, wired LAN or Wi-Fi. 

We also found that we needed to use a RIO when controlling Sony camcorders or ENG or cine lenses as the digital control of these pieces of equipment can't be interrupted otherwise settings would change, or the lens would close. With an RCP and a CI0, disconnecting the switch between the 2 would immediately trigger the problem. A RIO next to the camera would be unaffected by a connection drop from the RCP, and replace the missing electronics that should normally be in the camera.

• The RIO Live is a standard RIO, limited to one camera, without the remote production capabilities at a reduced price to cover the needs of live events on LAN networks.
  The RIO-Live is compatible with WLAN infrastructures such as Wi-Fi and Wi-Fi Halow (not through the internet)