This case study shares a behind the scenes look at the Keys Vineyard Community Church live streaming and video production setup. This setup uses Ableton to synchronize all of the church song and performances with Pro Presenter to manage the lower thirds musical lyrics overlaid on top of the live video. Using Ableton with a touch screen control software called TouchOSC, Doug Lawes the church media coordinator is able to automate the entire church video production system which includes: Ableton, Blackmagic Video Switcher, Chauvet DJ Lights, PTZOptics Cameras, Pro Presentor and OBS. We promise to release more details on this setup because many churches are interested in learning more.

There is so much that Doug Lawes, the church media coordinator, has done to make this house of worship audio-visual system shine. We are already planning a follow up webinar for Friday July 13th, 2018 at 2PM. Doug has agreed to answer questions for our live audience and explain how his system uses OBS, Blackmagic Design Video Switchers, Behringer Audio Mixers, Projectors, PTZOptics cameras and much more.

Ableton Church Video System Automation

Let’s start by looking at the laptop running Ableton which is located on stage in the Keys Vineyard Church. As you can see, this Macbook Pro is connected to the LAN (Local Area Network). The networking in place allows the Macbook Pro running Ableton to connect to multiple control systems which can operate the lights, turn on a live stream, transition to OBS (Open Broadcaster Software) and much more. Furthermore, each song is set up in Ableton to work with ProPresenter which keeps the entire band in sync with the music but also displays the song lyrics over the live cameras that are being displayed on large projector screens inside the church.

In years past, Doug explains that keeping everything in sync with multiple software components was difficult to get the timing right on stage during the church service. Using Ableton Live provides churches with a single solution which we will explain in more detail throughout the blog post. Ableton Live has the ability to send MIDI notes to other programs. These programs can be running on the same Windows or Mac computer using Ableton or on another computer on the church LAN. Essentially you will need to use a MIDI loop or a MIDI network which can be different depending on whether you are using a Mac or a PC computer. These MIDI loops and MIDI networks are used to connect Ableton to other systems which could be running the lights, PTZ cameras, switching video on the Blackmagic Switcher or even starting a live stream on OBS.

Touch OSC Controller for Ableton

Start Live Streaming from Ableton

Ableton PTZ Camera Integration

Ableton Church System

Using TouchOSC and Blackmagic Video Switchers

An important part of this church video production system is the TouchOSC control using an iPad. This iPad is connected to the LAN over WiFi and therefore has access to the entire network. The TouchOSC system can send commands to Ableton to start and stop songs during the church service. As you can see the TouchOSC iPad has a custom interface designed for the Keys Vineyard Church which can start and stop various songs easily. The iPad also allows the church to play a welcome video and operate the Blackmagic Video Switcher. Operating the Blackmagic Video switcher from TouchOSC is done through a software called atemOSC. AtemOSC is a software bridge that allows touchOSC to switch the video sources inside the Blackmagic switcher using MIDI which is ideal since everything is being handled through Ableton Live which can output MIDI easily.

The Blackmagic Production Studio 4k shown above is rack mounted inside the church video production booth. This video switch has five HD-SDI PTZOptics cameras connected which are also controllable via MIDI. Therefore throughout the Ableton live songs being played on stage, the church can decide where they want the cameras to zoom into and which time AND decide which camera they would like to be on the output of the Blackmagic Production Studio. The Blackmagic Production Studio video switcher is connected to a computer running OBS with a capture card. This capture card takes the output of the BMD video switcher and converts it to USB 3.0 for easy video ingestion into OBS.

MIDI Camera Control & Video Switching

PTZOptics has recently designed a PTZ camera MIDI control application which will take the MIDI output notes from any DAW (Digital Audio Workstation) like Ableton and convert that into VISCA over IP for camera control.
This software allows churches to control exactly where the camera will move during a song simply by dropping up to 10 camera PTZ preset positions inside the song timeline.

Including lighting control in Ableton Live

One of the most advanced parts of this system beside the PTZ camera controls and Blackmagic video switchers is the Chauvet DJ lighting control. The Chauvet DJ lights are controlled over DMX which is a lighting control protocol. Keys Vineyard church has used multiple lighting control solutions with their Chauvet DJ lights and ultimately decided to use Vista Software by Choma-Q to control the lights and automate everything with Ableton. There are now multiple plugins for Ableton which allow easy lighting control triggered directly through the Ableton Live software timeline. This further simplifies the church video production setup because as TouchOSC starts a song it can now handle all the programmed lighting.

ProPresentor and Church Lyrics Chomra Keying

Finally, we can forget about the amazing lyrics that are being displayed on the projector screens throughout the church service. ProPresenter is a great tool for controlling projectors and even chroma keying on top of the video being sent out of the Blackmagic video switcher. So as ProPresenter is triggered in sync with Ableton Live the lyrics are displayed over the live PTZOptics video cameras that are displayed on the projectors.

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Ease of Use: Each camera is connected directly to the ATEM Studio to access video feeds. The pan, tilt, zoom feature allows operators to manipulate the camera position with a touch of a button.

Single Operator: Eliminating static cameras negates the need for multiple camera operators. Using PTZ cameras allows the control of hundreds of camera positions with a single operator.

Tactile Control: The HuddleCam Joystick connects directly into each camera via serial cabling, capable of daisy-chaining multiple units. Set and call over 250 camera presets from one controller.

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In this blog post, outlines a detailed summary of the PTZOptics Move 4K camera review by John Mahoney from Streaming Alchemy. The Move 4K is a new camera from PTZOptics that offers 4K at 60fps, auto-tracking, and a range of IP and physical connections for easy integration into your studio setup.

The Streaming Alchemy YouTube channel is one of the best resources for detailed live streaming and video production content. We highly recommend that you subscribe here.

I/O Capabilities:

• 3G SDI and HDMI 2.0 connections for video (and audio if embedded)
• Network connection for control signals, NDI HX output, RTMP output, and SRT output
• USB 2.0 connection for webcam use
• PoE (Power over Ethernet) for single cable connection
• RS-232 and RS-485 for traditional PTZ camera control
• Line in and line out for audio

Camera Optics:

• Sony CMOS sensor (half-inch) with 8.5 million effective pixels
• 6.25mm to 125mm lens (20x version); also available in 12x and 30x versions
• Aperture size: around f7.5 to f19 in full frame equivalent
• Resolution: 4K at 60fps, 59.94fps, and 50fps (HDMI); 1080p60 and lower frame rates (SDI); 1080p at 60, 59.94, and 50fps; 720p at 60fps and 59.94fps
• Digital zoom: up to 16x, but recommended to stay within optical zoom range or the Hybrid Zoom mode in 1080p
• Gain an extra 2x zoom without resolution loss when using the camera at 1080p
• Field of view: 60.7 degrees horizontal and 34 degrees vertical
• Shutter speed: 1/30 to 1/10,000 of a second

IP Streaming Capabilities:

• Codecs: H.264, H.265 (HEVC), MJPEG, NDI HX2, NDI HX3, RTMP, RTSP, and SRT
• SRT support allows remote streaming in 4K

In summary, the PTZOptics Move 4K camera offers a comprehensive range of I/O capabilities, impressive optics, and versatile IP streaming options, making it an ideal choice for various studio setups and remote productions.

In this second part of our review, we delve deeper into the different flavors of NDI supported by the Move 4K camera and the camera’s ability to perform motion tracking under real-world conditions. Additionally, we discuss how well the camera integrates with other cameras, its resolution quality, and some of its other notable features.

NDI Options:

The Move 4K camera supports two types of NDI: HX2 and HX3. HX2 is a lower bandwidth version with higher latency, while HX3 is a compromise between full bandwidth NDI and HX2, offering low latency and better image quality. It is worth noting that HX2 supports up to 4K, while HX3 is currently limited to 1080p in the camera’s firmware.

Motion Tracking

The Move 4K performed well in various motion tracking tests, including single and multiple subjects, even when subjects momentarily moved behind others or were partially off-screen. The camera can easily switch targets using the included remote, allowing for smooth transitions between subjects.

Integration with Other Cameras

We found that the Move 4K could be easily matched with other cameras, such as the SimpleTrack Light, Gen 2, and Sony FX 30. The colors, especially flesh tones, were quite similar between the Move 4K and the Sony, likely due to both using Sony sensors.

Resolution Quality

While it’s difficult to gauge the true resolution quality through an online video, we compared the Move 4K to the SimpleTrack Light and Gen 2 camera. All three cameras were fed over NDI HX2, and the Move 4K showed promising resolution quality.

Additional Features

1. Hide Camera Moves: This setting freezes the video output during camera movement, effectively creating a cut between presets and hiding unwanted camera moves in a live stream.
2. HTTP Commands: The Move 4K can receive HTTP commands to toggle tracking on and off, which can be useful for switching between manual and auto tracking during an event.
3. Built-in Tally Light: A subtle but valuable feature, the built-in tally light indicates when the camera is live in a program (red), in preview (green), or not in either (off).

Improvement Ideas

There are two features we would like to see improved in the camera’s firmware:

1. 1. Improved auto tracking to allow for user-defined framing of the shot.
   2. More HTTP support for auto-tracking commands, such as changing subjects, toggling bounding boxes, and separate RTMP/RTSP feeds.

Despite these suggested improvements, the Move 4K camera’s capabilities, signal quality, and auto-tracking performance are impressive. We hope you find this overview helpful, and please feel free to ask questions in the comments section.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the PTZOptics Move 4K camera is an impressive piece of equipment that offers a wide range of features and capabilities, making it an excellent choice for live streaming and production environments. Its high-quality image output, motion tracking capabilities, and versatile NDI protocol support make it a strong contender in its market segment.

The Move 4K’s ability to handle various real-world situations, such as single and multiple subject tracking, reacquiring target subjects, and integrating with other cameras, demonstrates its potential to be a valuable addition to any production setup. The built-in tally light and HTTP command support for auto-tracking further enhance its usability and efficiency.

However, there is room for improvement in the camera’s firmware, particularly concerning auto-tracking framing and expanded HTTP command support. Addressing these concerns in future firmware updates would make the Move 4K even more versatile and user-friendly. With the include 5-year warranty and the team’s dedication to improving the camera firmware, this product is a solid choice.

Overall, the PTZOptics Move 4K camera stands out as a reliable and high-performing option for those looking to upgrade or expand their production equipment. Its robust features, solid performance, and potential for improvement make it a worthy investment for professionals in the streaming and production industry.

The post PTZOptics Move 4K Camera: A Comprehensive Review appeared first on PTZOptics.

This approach not only enhances community engagement but also provides valuable learning opportunities for students interested in broadcasting, media production, and related fields. In this article, we will explore some of the ways that schools are using live production technology to bring their events beyond the classroom and into the wider community.

Here is a list of educational spaces discuss in our blog post:

1. Video Services Lab or Broadcast Media Room
   • Uses include broadcasting school board meetings and community events. Often used for student-run morning broadcasts. In higher education, these spaces are used for intern meetings and career building.
2. Production Studios
   • Uses include student training in the broadcast club. Video creation for student and teacher projects. 
3. Staged Auditoriums
   • Uses include theatrical performances are often recorded and broadcast in stage areas. School presentations and town halls are often recorded and live-streamed for remote students and parent viewing. 
4. School Sports
   • Uses include recording videos for students and coaches to use to improve sports analytics. Broadcasting school sports for parents to watch from home, especially for away games. 

Video Services Lab and Broadcast Media Rooms

Educational spaces known as Video Services Labs or Broadcast Media Rooms are becoming increasingly popular in primary and secondary schools, as well as higher education institutions. These audio-visual (AV) labs provide a space for students to learn about video production and broadcasting while also serving practical purposes such as broadcasting school board meetings and community events. In higher education, these spaces are being utilized for presenting research materials, conducting intern meetings, and career building. Additionally, some universities are even using broadcast media rooms to recruit new students by creating high-quality promotional videos that showcase their campus and academic programs. As technology continues to advance, it’s likely that we’ll see more educational spaces like these in the future.

One of the key features of Video Services Labs or Broadcast Media Rooms is their flexibility in serving a variety of needs. These spaces can be used as conference rooms, faculty development areas, or traditional production studios depending on the specific needs of the institution. In addition to broadcasting school board meetings and community events, these rooms are also being utilized for distance learning, staff development, and other 1-to-1 or 1-to-many presentations. With the ability to switch between various setups and configurations quickly, these spaces can adapt to changing needs with ease. This makes them an ideal investment for educational institutions looking to provide high-quality video services while maximizing their resources.

When you are planning out a space like this, ease of use is generally a top priority because users need to be able to quickly customize their needs. In spaces like this, a cloud-based video communications software solution such as Zoom Room or Microsoft Teams environment is an ideal part of the system allowing users to easily connect the audio and video from the room to the cloud and other users. The audio-video connection diagram shown above outlines how a video production computer can be set up with multiple audio-visual resources including PTZ cameras, joystick controllers, and existing camcorders for video. This system would assume an audio system is also connected to the virtual production computer via a USB connection. These audio and video connections can then be used with lecture capture software, distance learning, and video communications such as Zoom and Teams. 

Video Production Studios

The next logical step beyond Video Services Labs or Broadcast Media Rooms is the full-blown production studio. These studios require a higher level of equipment and expertise to produce broadcast-level content. When working with a school to select equipment for a production studio, it’s important to consider the specific needs of the institution. One key piece of equipment to consider is a PTZ (pan-tilt-zoom) camera, which can provide high-quality video footage while also allowing for remote control operation. When selecting a PTZ camera for studio use, it’s important to consider factors such as resolution, frame rate, zoom capabilities, and low-light performance. Additionally, it’s important to ensure that the camera is compatible with other equipment in the studio setup such as lighting, microphones, and editing software. By carefully considering these factors and working with an experienced AV specialist, schools can create a highly functional and effective production studio for their students and staff.

Some of the technology shown in the audio-visual connection diagram above include a dedicated video switcher, tally lights, PTZ cameras, and a joystick controller. In this diagram, Network Device Interface (NDI) is used as a core connection technology that leverages the Local Area Network (LAN). NDI can be used as a simple way to add multiple cameras, manage Tally Lights, and display video content on a confidence monitor. In this sample diagram, a NewTek TriCaster is used as an IP-based video switcher which is connected to the LAN. Each PTZOptics NDI-enabled camera is capable of sending FullHD (1080p) or even UltraHD (4Kp) video to the TriCaster for video switching. Each camera also includes a Tally Light which allows the on-camera talent the ability to quickly see which camera is either live or “up-next” in preview. NDI video decoders are used to convert the IP-based NDI video into an HDMI video output that can power a display and show low-latency video from the production to other areas of the production studio or school campus. 

The Auditorium and Stage Performances

There are many cool things that can be done around a school with a live production studio at its core. One obvious place to utilize such a studio is in the staged auditorium, which is a key venue for events such as plays, concerts, and assemblies. The configuration of cameras used in an auditorium will differ depending on whether it’s a secondary school or higher education institution. In secondary schools, it’s common to have fixed cameras placed throughout the auditorium to capture wide shots and close-ups of the stage. On the other hand, higher education institutions may opt for more advanced camera configurations such as robotic cameras mounted on tracks or cranes to provide dynamic and engaging footage of performances. Regardless of the specific setup chosen, having a live production studio at the center allows for seamless switching between camera feeds and real-time editing to create high-quality recordings of school events that can be shared with students, families, and the broader community.

In the audio-visual connection diagram above you can see two live-streaming computers that are used together in a campus environment. Using two computers for a live production allows the students to share responsibilities and spread video-related tasks across a team. For example, one computer here is used for the main video production switching with vMix. The second computer is running software called ProPresenter which is used to display graphics and power multiple monitors that are on stage. You can see here that three PTZOptics NDI-connected cameras are available for control with a joystick controller but also a smartphone device. Video departments can control PTZ cameras remotely from anywhere on campus and one easy way is to use a PTZOptics SuperJoy controller because it provides an HDMI video output to display the video of the camera being controlled. This is particularly useful if the user is remote to the auditorium or camera location. You can also see that additional monitors outside the auditorium are showing the video output using an NDI decoder. NDI decoders are able to take an NDI video stream and output it via HDMI. The nice thing about NDI decoders is that they can be managed remotely and you can easily choose the NDI video source on the network that you would like to show on LCD tvs on your network. 

School Sports: Indoors

This same technology can also be used to connect indoor sports areas with audiences both inside and outside the school. With a live production studio, schools can broadcast games, matches, and meets in real time using multiple cameras and professional audio equipment. This not only allows for remote viewing by family and friends who cannot attend in person but also provides opportunities for students to learn about broadcasting and production. In addition, schools can use live streaming as a way to generate revenue through sponsorships, advertising, or pay-per-view access. By investing in the necessary equipment and working with experienced AV professionals, schools can create engaging and high-quality live streams of their sports events that enhance school spirit and community engagement.

Because schools often have a lot of sporting events going on simultaneously, it can be difficult to record videos for every event. This is where centrally managed audio-visual systems with IP network connectivity can come in handy. PTZOptics cameras for example can live stream directly from the camera to Content Delivery Networks (CDN) such as Facebook or YouTube. PTZOptics cameras can easily turn off and on streaming to these networks with the click of a button in the cameras web interface. 

Tip: If you want to live stream directly from a PTZOptics camera, you should make sure to connect a line level audio source to the 3.5mm audio input. 

If your school has moved to IP-based video production techniques such as NDI, you should be able to remotely control and produce a video from indoor sporting areas such as Basketball courts and swimming pools. This allows a central production team to remotely control the cameras, graphics, and production elements. In these cases, using a PTZOptics SuperJoy with SuperPresets is a good way to keep multiple cameras in sync during remote production. SuperPresets work by issuing multiple PTZ camera preset commands with a single button press. As you can see from the diagram above, this is ideal for moving cameras up and down a sports field during production. 

School Sports: Outdoors

When schools start live streaming one sport, you can bet that students and parents will hope the schools capture and broadcast outdoor sports events as well. However, there are some additional challenges when working in an outdoor environment. One key consideration is the need for extension-cabling to bring power and network connectivity to cameras and other equipment located far from buildings or other sources of electricity. Once again, this is where IP-based video production technology really helps because a PoE-enabled network switch can extend connectivity for multiple devices including audio systems, cameras, and computers. Additionally, protective outdoor enclosures may be necessary to shield equipment from weather conditions such as rain or extreme temperatures. At PTZOptics, we highly recommend the Dotworkz D3 enclosures for use with our cameras here. Examples of outdoor sports that can benefit from live-streaming technology include soccer, football, track and field, and lacrosse. By using multiple cameras strategically placed around the field or arena, schools can provide viewers with a comprehensive view of the action while still maintaining a professional-quality broadcast. Overall, the use of live streaming technology for outdoor sports events requires careful planning and preparation but can provide many benefits for schools looking to enhance their athletic programs and engage with their communities.

 Conclusion

In conclusion, live production technology is a powerful tool that schools can use to engage with their communities and enhance the educational experience for students. By bringing school events and performances to remote audiences through high-quality audio and video broadcasts, schools can increase community involvement and provide valuable learning opportunities for students interested in media production. Whether it’s a concert, play, or sporting event, live productions allow schools to share their successes with a wider audience while also providing a platform for students to showcase their talents. As technology continues to evolve, we can expect to see even more innovative uses of live production technology in the classroom and beyond.

Consider reaching out to one of our dedicated professionals at PTZOptics for help designing a video production system. You can email partners@ptzoptics.com to get the conversation started or fill out our contact form at https://ptzoptics.com/contact

The post Beyond the Classroom: How Schools are Bringing Live Productions to the Community appeared first on PTZOptics.

See the new Auto-Tracking Cameras

The new Move 4K PTZOptics cameras now feature auto-tracking, making it easier than ever to integrate automatic subject tracking into your live streaming or video production setup. This innovative technology allows you to keep the camera focused on your subject, no matter how much they move around. Add a creative and dynamic touch to your videos by taking advantage of this powerful feature – and let PTZOptics help you bring your production dreams to life!

Check out the latest software integrations

With PTZOptics cameras, you can now use your favorite live streaming software such as OBS, Wirecast, vMix or Livestream Studio to take advantage of their built-in pan, tilt and zoom camera controls and preset settings. With this capability, you’ll be able to stream like a professional – with automated camera movements and simple pre-configured settings all done from within the software. Take your live streaming capabilities to the next level today with PTZOptics!

Request PTZ Joystick Control Demonstration

With PTZOptics joysticks, you can control the movement of your camera with precision and finesse. These joysticks allow the camera to move slowly and smoothly through a variety of settings for live production, lecture capture, sports coverage and more. Request to see one of these in action for yourself and experience the cutting-edge technology that ensures your production projects are successful every time.

Book a Meeting Today!

PTZOptics would like to invite you to book a live camera demo from our studio, where you can check out the latest 4K pan, tilt, and zoom cameras that we have to offer. Our team of experts can show you how our cameras perform in real-time, helping you decide if it’s the right choice for your project. We’re here to help make sure you get the best quality equipment for your needs – so don’t hesitate and book a demo today!

The post Our new studio is done and you can book a meeting to check it out appeared first on PTZOptics.

Pan, tilt, and zoom (PTZ) cameras have become a popular way to capture video in houses of worship because they provide the ability to discreetly mount cameras that are out of the way. PTZ cameras can easily be placed in non-obtrusive locations and operated by a media manager or volunteer from a remote location often next to the audio board or toward the back of the room. Many times volunteers enjoy participating in the video production process and offer to steer PTZ cameras using a PTZ joystick controller. PTZ joystick controllers are intuitive and they provide volunteers and media managers the ability to control multiple cameras from a single interface. 

Auto-tracking cameras are a new addition to many video production systems in houses of worship because they are able to automatically follow the pastor or person of interest at the front of the room. Auto-tracking cameras like the HuddleCamHD SimplTrack Lite or the PTZOptics Gen 3 cameras are able to keep viewers engaged without the need for dedicated camera operators using a joystick controller to follow a subject. While every camera in a house of worship does not need auto-tracking capabilities, in many situations it’s nice to have at least one camera that can track the pastor at all times, freeing up the AV team for more important work. As an example, with one auto-tracking camera working in the system, volunteers can focus on running the video production switcher and choosing upcoming audio visuals such as PowerPoint slides or video content from ProPreseter. 

If you already have PTZ cameras installed in your house of worship it’s possible that you can add auto-tracking capabilities without having to purchase a new camera. PTZOptics has recently released the Camera Management Platform (CMP) which allows you to add auto-tracking capabilities to any PTZOptics camera. This is a great way to add auto-tracking to your audio-visual system without having to spend any money at all. 

If you are looking to purchase a dedicated auto-tracking camera for your house of worship here are a few things that you should consider. 

#1 – Dedicated Hardware versus Software

While it’s nice to add auto-tracking to an older PTZ camera by adding auto-tracking software, it may not always be the best choice. Software solutions require a computer, which needs to have the software open and running every time you use it. This might be totally fine if you have a trained volunteer or audio-visual technician. On the other hand, you may want to have a dedicated auto-tracking camera like the HuddleCamHD SimplTrack Lite which can run 24/7 without the need for additional software. In most cases, a dedicated auto-tracking camera will be more reliable than a PTZ camera that requires a computer and software to be running in order to work. 

#2 – Auto-Tracking Camera Features

There are a couple of features that auto-tracking cameras have that you should consider if you are putting an auto-tracking system into your house of worship. The first is the ability to set up “Blocking Zones.” Block zones are areas where you can tell an auto-tracking camera to ignore. A perfect example of this would be a choir area where you do not want the auto-tracking camera to get confused and start tracking. Most auto-tracking cameras work using a combination of object and facial tracking. Using block zones you can remove the possibility of your auto-tracking accidentally tracking the wrong person by blocking entire areas from the stage. 

#3 – Camera Location

When you are thinking about installing an auto-tracking camera in your house of worship you will likely want to think about the mounting location. In many cases, the camera can be powered and controlled over ethernet and therefore you will likely want to run an ethernet cable to the camera’s mounting location. A good camera location would give the camera the ability to zoom into the entire stage and provide a nice frame for the subject. A 20X optical zoom camera is often enough zoom to capture a head and shoulders view of a pastor from up to 50 feet away. The HuddleCamHD SimplTrack Lite for example can be used up to 55 feet away from the presenter. The PTZOptics 30X cameras can actually capture a head and shoulders view of a pastor from up to 75 feet away. Whichever mount location you choose make sure you can run your audio-visual cabling to that spot. You may want to work with an audio-visual installation team who can make sure everything is installed correctly. 

As houses of worship look to increase their video quality and subsequent online engagement, the art of video production is a subject that is often reviewed by pastors and active members of the community. An auto-tracking camera can help keep viewers engaged and reduce your team’s overall workload each week. 

The post Choosing an Auto-Tracking Camera for your House of Worship appeared first on PTZOptics.

PTZOptics is excited to introduce our new 4K PTZ cameras. The PTZOptics Move 4K camera is perfect for any video production that requires 4K resolution. The new 4K PTZ camera provides 4 times the resolution of 1080p HD, making it ideal for any application that requires high-quality video. The Move 4K 20X camera also features a wide field of view and a fast frame rate (up to 60fps), making it perfect for capturing fast-moving objects. The new Move 4K cameras are also backed by PTZOptics’ industry-leading 5-year warranty. To see the new 4K PTZ 20X camera in action, check out the test footage above.
The camera is able to auto-track and focus on any person you choose in frame. By auto-tracking, the camera is always focused on the target and keeping it in the frame. The person tracking selection feature of the camera is also very handy. As long as the person is within the field of view, the camera will keep them in focus and in frame even when other people are in the same scene. This is especially useful for video presentations and lecture capture applications. Overall, the camera’s ability to move and track objects with precision is very impressive.
A 20X optical zoom lens is a great asset for any video production. It allows you to get close to your subject while still being able to frame the shot properly. This can be especially useful when following a presenter on stage or framing a specific video angle from a distance. In addition, a 20X lens can help you to capture detail that would be otherwise impossible to see with the naked eye. Whether you’re trying to capture the detail in a stain-glassed window or written details on a whiteboard, a 20X lens gives you the power to get up close and magnify small details. Even if you don’t plan on using the full extent of the zoom, having that extra reach can be helpful in getting the perfect shot. So if you’re looking for a versatile lens that can help you take your video production to the next level, consider investing in a 20X optical zoom lens.
The PTZOptics 20X move test footage showcases the camera’s ability to smoothly track and follow presenters with precision. The benefits of having a 20X optical zoom lens are clear in the video, as well as the importance of using PTZ cameras for live streaming and video production applications. If you have any questions about how PTZ cameras can benefit your business or organization, please don’t hesitate to contact us. We would be happy to discuss our products and solutions with you.

The post PTZOptics Move 20X Test Footage appeared first on PTZOptics.

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Downingtown, PA, March 29, 2022 – PTZOptics, leading manufacturer of affordable broadcast-quality  robotic cameras, today announces an extension to their distribution partnership with the Midwich Group  into the UK and Ireland. Midwich (UK) and Square One (Ireland) will offer the full range of PTZOptics  products, including those from sister brands HuddleCamHD and TallyLights, starting April 1, 2022.

This partnership expands PTZOptics’s relationship with the Midwich Group, the global distributor of AV  products that includes Midwich, Square One, and Starin, a current distribution partner for PTZOptics in  North America.

“It’s been amazing to see, in less than a decade, the growth of PTZOptics into a truly international  brand,” says Will Golde, Director of Channel Development for PTZOptics. “Midwich Group is the ideal  partner to help bring PTZOptics into new markets in the UK and Ireland. With their deep understanding  of customer needs in the broadcast space, technical savvy, and customer support capacity, they are  uniquely equipped to help dealers achieve project success with our product line.”

Midwich and Square One will now offer customers access to PTZOptics’s award-winning lineup of  affordable cameras and accessories, including robotic PTZ cameras; stationary ZCams, ePTZ cameras,  and livestreaming webcams; auto-framing and auto-tracking cameras for video conferencing, lecture  capture, and live events capture; camera control joysticks; and tally light on-air indicator systems for  multi-camera shoots. All products offer a wide range of distribution and control options, ranging from SDI  to NDI^®|HX.

Global demand for video capture and livestreaming capabilities continues to increase across markets.  The Midwich Group’s reach across the UK, Ireland, European, and Asia-Pacific regions will allow  PTZOptics to scale access to their products to meet this need, with local customer consulting and  support provided by the Midwich Group’s 1000+ person team of professionals.

“We’ve watched recognition of the PTZOptics brand and demand for their products surge over the  course of their partnership with Starin in North America, especially in recent years with the expansion of  IP and NDI® capabilities across their product lines,” says Ross Floyd, Divisional Director at Midwich. “We  are confident we can replicate that success in the UK and Ireland.”

Learn more about the PTZOptics family of brands at ptzoptics.com, or contact the Midwich Group team  to learn more about incorporating these products into projects in the UK and Ireland.

About PTZOptics

PTZOptics is a manufacturer of robotic pan, tilt, zoom camera solutions for a variety of broadcast  applications, including both video production and live streaming. Established in 2014, PTZOptics  disrupted the professional audiovisual industry when a group of engineers from a highly respected  systems integration firm created the first in a portfolio of cameras that was a part of their vision to create  an innovative solution for the complex needs of broadcast landscapes. Headquartered in Downingtown,  Pa., the start-up quickly eclipsed some of the biggest brands in the growing PTZ camera category. With  global distribution in more than 50 countries, PTZOptics has produced industry leading resources,  including the StreamGeeks livestream series. PTZOptics is the sister-company to HuddleCamHD,  manufacturers of professional video conferencing cameras. Learn more at www.PTZOptics.com.

About Midwich Group

Midwich is a specialist AV distributor to the trade market, with operations in the UK and Ireland, EMEA,  Asia Pacific and North America. The Group’s long-standing relationships with over 600 vendors, including  blue-chip organizations, support a comprehensive product portfolio across major audio visual categories  such as large format displays, projectors, digital signage and professional audio. The Group operates as  the sole or largest in-country distributor for a number of its vendors in their respective product sets.

The Directors attribute this position to the Group’s technical expertise, extensive product knowledge and  strong customer service offering built up over a number of years. The Group has a large and diverse base  of over 20,000 customers, most of which are professional AV integrators and IT resellers serving sectors  such as corporate, education, retail, residential and hospitality. Although the Group does not sell directly  to end users, it believes that the majority of its products are used by commercial and educational  establishments rather than consumers.

Initially a UK only distributor, the Group now has around 1,000 employees across the UK and Ireland,  Continental Europe, Asia Pacific and North America. A core component of the Group’s growth strategy is  further expansion of its international operations and footprint into strategically targeted jurisdictions.

For further information, please visit www.midwichgroupplc.com. 

Media Contacts: 

PTZOptics 

Rachel Bradshaw, Caster Communications 

ptzoptics@castercomm.com 

+1.434.604.0304 

Midwich Group  

Ben Thompson, Communications & PR Manager at Midwich  

ben.thompson@midwich.com

The post PRESS RELEASE: PTZOptics and Midwich Group Expand Distribution Partnership appeared first on PTZOptics.

At PTZOptics, we currently offer PTZOptics NDI® cameras that are compatible with NDI®|HX. However, if you own a different model of camera, such as the USB or SDI PTZOptics camera, you can now upgrade to an NDI®|HX license and take advantage of the power of this new protocol. With this license upgrade, you can get all the benefits of your PTZ camera with the added power and convenience of the most advanced video over IP solution available. Here are a few reasons why you should upgrade your camera to NDI®|HX.

Say Goodbye to SDI Cables

SDI (serial digital interface) has been around since the late ‘80s and has become the industry standard for professional and semi-professional broadcast production. SDI cabling provides for excellent quality video over long cable runs with low latency. However, the major disadvantage of this method is it requires a direct line run from each camera to the switcher or computer interface. This can become problematic with a large number of cameras or in places where the architecture makes installation difficult. With NDI®|HX, you can use a standard ethernet cable to attach the camera to your closest ethernet switch. Then, as long as that switch is on the same network as your production computer or switcher, you can connect.

One Cable Does it All

Without NDI®|HX, you could be using up to three cables to operate your PTZ camera. First, as mentioned above, you may use an SDI cable to connect to your switcher or production computer. Next, you may have a power adapter running to an electrical outlet. Finally, you might be using a serial cable to connect to a camera control such as a joystick controller. With NDI®|HX, you can handle everything over that one ethernet cable. As long as you plug into a PoE (power over ethernet) switch, that line can handle video, audio, power, and remote control.

Multiple Simulcast Options

With NDI®|HX, you can access any compatible camera from any computer or switcher on the network. That means you can produce multiple, custom simulcast options simultaneously. For instance, one switcher might handle the iMag (image magnification) in the room. Another might handle the main live stream. Another might send a different stream with subtitles and graphics in Spanish. Yet another could produce a custom feed for an overflow room.

Simplified Signal Flow for Easier Troubleshooting

If you have ever had a camera go offline right before or during production, you know how complex it can be to figure out why. This is especially true if you are using a multi-cable setup. There could be a problem with the power connection, the SDI connection, or serial control connection. Many times you will need to go to the camera to check and trace the cables. With an NDI®|HX upgrade license, you can handle everything right from your computer. With a managed PoE switch, you can even cycle the power on and off remotely, when necessary.

Next-Level Video Conferencing

Most popular video conferencing solutions such as Zoom, Microsoft Teams, or Google Meet work well with USB webcams. However, using NDI®|HX, you can use any equipped camera on your network as a source for your meeting. This means that, during a session, you can switch between cameras and even control the pan, tilt, zoom features, adding a new level of production value to your meetings.

Extremely Low Latency

If you run your system using traditional video over IP and not NDI®|HX, you may have issues with latency. Because of this, some producers are reluctant to make the switch. However, with the latest version of NDI®|HX, suitable computers, and a gigabit ethernet switch, you can share video with no noticeable latency issues.

Simple Installation

If you are used to running cables, installing capture cards, and adjusting settings to get a camera to show up on your switcher or production computer, NDI®|HX is a real time saver. Once you have your network operating, adding a new camera can be done in minutes.

Works for Any Size and Budget Production

NDI®|HX is the perfect solution whether you work in professional broadcast operations, run a YouTube channel, or just want to live stream your church services. It is easy to set up and integrate with just one camera and free software like OBS. Still, it is a robust solution suitable for a professional production studio.

Ultimate Scalability

No matter what type of content you are looking to share, chances are you will eventually expand your setup. With traditional cabled configurations, adding additional cameras, switchers, computers, and simulcasts can be overwhelming. Upon reaching a certain size, some producers must start over with new equipment for additional connections, because hardware switchers can only handle so many inputs. Many computers are also limited in the number of different capture cards or boxes they can handle. Using NDI®|HX, all you need to add a camera is an open ethernet port on your network. There is virtually no limit to the number of cameras that can be added to a network or the number of computers that can access it.

Works with Most Popular Software

NDI®|HX marks an evolution in video production. Not only is there a variety of dedicated software to handle many production tasks, but connectivity is also available in most popular production software. Programs compatible with NDI®|HX include: vMix, Wirecast, OBS, NewBlueFX Titler, and more.

What Are You Waiting For?

If you’re not yet convinced to take a leap into the future of video delivery, take a look at our Unofficial Guide to NDI®, a free resource to help you better understand this new technology. Ready to upgrade your USB or SDI PTZOptics camera with the purchase of an NDI®|HX license? Visit our website and get started.

House of Worship Case Study

The post 10 Reasons Why You Should Upgrade Your Camera to NDI^®|HX appeared first on PTZOptics.