ARRI WVT-1: wireless video transmitter for 1080p transmission with 150–300m range, engineered for Steadicam and remote head applications.
Technical Details
The WVT-1 transmits 1080i/p signals at 50/59.94/60 Hz over four selectable frequency channels with a bandwidth of 20 MHz each. The transmitter weighs 280 grams, measures 125 × 80 × 30 mm, and runs on 14.4V via V-Mount or Gold Mount batteries. The integrated antenna provides a range of 150-200 meters under optimal conditions; external antennas extend this to up to 300 meters. The system uses proprietary compression with 4:2:2 color sampling and 10-bit processing. The associated receiver, WVR-1, offers dual HD-SDI outputs and an HDMI output.
History & Development
ARRI introduced the WVT-1 system at NAB in 2012, responding to the growing demand for reliable wireless solutions for digital cameras. Development took three years and was guided by the requirements of Steadicam operators and remote head applications. In 2014, it was integrated into ARRI ALEXA cameras as an optional accessory. The system was superseded by the more powerful WVS-1 system in 2017 but remained in the product line until 2019.
Practical Use in Film
The WVT-1 primarily established itself for Steadicam shots, crane and jib operations, and for director's monitoring on set. Productions like "The Revenant" (2015) utilized the system for complex Steadicam sequences in rugged terrain. The low latency enabled precise live focusing by remote focus pullers. Typical workflows involved mounting directly to the camera, powered by the camera battery. Disadvantages became apparent with reflections in interiors and interference with other 5 GHz devices.
Comparison & Alternatives
The WVT-1 competed directly with the Teradek Bolt 500 and Paralinx Arrow-X, but was the only system offering native integration into ARRI cameras. Compared to more affordable systems like the Hollyland Mars 400, it excelled with significantly lower latency and more robust transmission. Its successor, the WVS-1, offers 4K transmission and extended range, while modern alternatives like the Teradek Bolt 4K or SmallHD Focus Bolt provide higher resolutions and more flexible mounting options.