At InfoComm 2026, Sony Electronics will introduce the “SRG-AS10,” a 4K 60p-compatible PTZ Auto Framing camera that uses Sony’s proprietary AI to automatically recognize and track subjects and capture them with natural composition, along with the “SRG-XS10,” a basic 4K PTZ camera.

“With the announcement of the SRG-AS10 and SRG-XS10, Sony continues to enable professional and reliable 4K capture across real‑world AV environments,” said Rich Ventura, Vice President, Professional Display Solutions, Sony Electronics. “By combining intelligent automation, smooth PTZ performance, flexible integration, and support for common routing and control protocols, these compact cameras remove technical barriers, allowing education, corporate, and live environments to focus on what matters most—their message and presentation.”

Both models are equipped with a 1/2.8-type 4K image sensor featuring STARVIS, Sony’s proprietary image sensor technology, which enables clear video capture even in low-light environments. In addition, they are enhanced with smooth, natural pan-and-tilt operation, delivering fluid camera movement from start to stop without abrupt acceleration or deceleration.

The SRG-AS10 and SRG-XS10 support up to 10x optical zoom in 4K. In addition, using Tele Convert Mode, they support up to 20x zoom in Full HD, providing flexible framing for a wide variety of capture and streaming scenarios.

These cameras are suitable for a wide range of shooting distances in concert halls, theaters, gymnasiums, and similar venues—from close-up shots to the back of the hall. Their compact, lightweight design blends seamlessly into various environments such as classrooms, meeting rooms, or even narrow spaces like backstage wings or sports venues, where it may be difficult to position a camera operator. This allows for installation in diverse settings and enables the capture of high-resolution video that clearly expresses subjects’ facial expressions.

The two new models, SRG-AS10 and SRG-XS10, are expected to be available near the end of 2026.

They will be on display June 17-19, 2026, at InfoComm in Las Vegas at booth C8301.

Key Features of the SRG-AS10　

PTZ Auto Framing for smooth, natural automated capture: Powered by Sony’s proprietary AI analytics algorithms, the PTZ Auto Framing function automatically tracks subjects and continuously adjusts framing to maintain natural composition. It supports diverse capture and streaming needs, including online classes and remote lectures in education, corporate content creation and internal/external streaming, and sports capture, including a dedicated Basketball game tracking mode. This enables automated capture without reliance on operators or advanced skills.

Ball Sports (Basketball) Mode: Ball Sports (Basketball) Mode supports automated capture of indoor full-court basketball games from a wide shot. By recognizing the court area and tracking not only players but also the fast and irregular movement of the ball, the camera captures the flow of play with accurate framing.

Multi-person Framing: The camera automatically adjusts framing so that a specified number of people—up to eight—fit within the frame at the same time, maintaining a natural composition. It supports stable capture in multi-person scenes such as corporate conferences, panel discussions, weddings, sports games, worship services, and various ceremonies.

Clear video even in low light with a 1/2.8-type 4K image sensor with STARVIS: Equipped with a 1/2.8-type 4K image sensor with STARVIS technology, the camera delivers clear, low-noise images even in low-light environments. Smooth motion reproduction at 4K 60p accurately captures natural human movement as well as fast-paced and detailed sports action.

Flexible installation and capture methods for a wide range of applications: With a compact, lightweight design that blends into any space, the cameras support both tripod and ceiling-mounted installation, making them easy to deploy in a wide range of environments such as lecture rooms, conference rooms, studios, halls, and sports venues.

In addition to SDI and HDMI outputs, the cameras come with NDI HX2 pre-installed and support IP streaming protocols such as RTSP, RTMP, and SRT—enabling remote production over IP networks. They also support PoE++, allowing power, video, and control to be delivered through a single LAN cable for simplified, scalable system integration. Furthermore, the web-based user interface (Web UI) enables intuitive operation from a tablet or PC via a web browser.

Key Features of the SRG-XS10

Equipped with a 1/2.8-type 4K image sensor with STARVIS technology, the camera enables clear video expression even in low-light environments. With a compact, lightweight design that blends into any space, it can be installed in various environments such as classrooms and meeting rooms, making it suitable for everyday streaming and recording tasks including lecture capture, internal corporate streaming, and online meetings.

The distinction between broadcast and professional AV is blurring as the two worlds converge and overlap, creating a new era in content creation that benefits both markets.

Historically, broadcast-quality production required dedicated studios, specialized engineering teams, SDI-based infrastructure, and significant capital investment. Today, many of those barriers are coming down. But the end goal remains the same—to produce high-quality content that looks good, helps deliver important messages, and fosters engagement while being cost-effective and easy to use.

Corporate and education customers are increasingly expected to create, deliver, and distribute high-quality video content at speed, whether for executive communications, training, education, live productions, hybrid events, product launches, or customer and student engagement. As a result, these end users are turning to technologies that combine the reliability and image quality of broadcast with the flexibility and accessibility of AV. This creates new markets, customers, and opportunities for those in both broadcast and Pro AV.

Interest is growing in solutions including budget-friendly studio cameras with expandable future pathways and PTZ options that incorporate the cinematic look, zoom, and AI-based technologies.

The Drivers

Several trends are accelerating this convergence. AV-over-IP is moving video and audio transmission away from dedicated media and cabling toward standard IT networks. This gives organizations more flexible production environments and broader ways to deliver content across rooms, campuses, and remote locations.

At the same time, remote and cloud-based production tools are reducing the need for physical control rooms, fixed studios, and specialized editing suites. Teams can now switch, manage, and edit content from virtually anywhere, lowering both operational complexity and cost.

[Sony Electronics to Launch Two Compact, Lightweight 4K PTZ Cameras at InfoComm 26]

AI-powered capabilities are also playing a critical role. Intelligent features such as AI auto framing, tracking, and enhanced autofocus, seen in Sony’s latest PTZ cameras, are helping non-technical or less-experienced users produce more professional results with less manual input. These capabilities are especially important in corporate, education, and faith environments, where internal teams or volunteers may not have traditional broadcast expertise but still need to deliver polished, consistent content using intuitive technologies.

Video Becomes Central

This evolution is visible in the growing use of PTZ cameras across auditoriums, mixed-use spaces, lecture halls, studios, and meeting environments. Equipment is becoming smarter, easier to deploy, and better suited to multipurpose use cases. Instead of building production around highly specialized facilities, organizations can create scalable video ecosystems that support everything from simple internal messaging to sophisticated live productions.

As video becomes central to how organizations communicate, thought leadership, internal messaging, and education are becoming more dependent on production capabilities. Using the latest technologies, end users can now create high-quality content quickly, efficiently, and cost-effectively with fewer barriers and resources, making them better positioned to inform, influence, and engage their audiences now and into the future.

Aiming to elevate the visual quality of its production services for broadcasts of the U.S. Curling Trials for the winter games in Italy, Stadium Sports Network selected Telycam Explore XE cameras to deliver the enhanced video they needed. The resulting quality gains exceeded their expectations.

[The Technology Behind the 2026 Olympic Winter Games]

Stadium Sports Network’s roots began as specialized systems integration firm Curling Stadium, focused on deploying streaming solutions in curling arenas. As the company grew, it needed an upgrade. “World Curling and USA Curling distribute our feeds to premium buyers such as TSN and other international television channels, who then air it on linear TV,” explained founder and CTO John Benton. “We knew we needed to provide better quality for linear television, and that our existing PTZ cameras weren’t going to cut it.”

Benton wanted cameras with 1-inch sensors and the ability to handle the unique demands of capturing curling. This objective became even more important when Stadium Sports was contracted to produce the U.S. Curling Trials in South Dakota for NBC Sports in November 2025. The event, which would determine which teams would represent the United States, was to be broadcast on USA Network and NBCUniversal’s Peacock streaming service.

Stadium Sports’ partner in Scotland, David Owen of Curling Stadium Europe, recommended that Benton look at Telycam’s Explore series. Benton tested Telycam Explore XE broadcast-class PTZ cameras, and was so impressed that he purchased three Explore XE units for the upcoming production.

For the USA Curling event, Stadium Sports used the three Telycam Explore XE cameras as primary cameras. Two were positioned as overhead cameras that were hung on a truss above the ice, over scoring areas at each end known as “the house”. The third camera, referred to as the “slide camera”, was deployed on the field of play. All three cameras were constantly panning, tilting and zooming throughout the matches.

The Telycam PTZ cameras output NDI HX3 streams, which were transported to the production room over an Ubiquiti network with 10Gbps fiber connectivity. The production center housed four space-efficient operator stations: the main switcher system running vMix software; two camera operator positions; and a graphics and audio station featuring Singular Live HTML5 graphics and a Behringer X32 mixing console.

The upgrade to the new PTZ cameras delivered the quality gains Benton had strived for. “We couldn’t be happier with the Telycam Explore XE cameras,” he praised. “And more importantly, NBC Sports and Peacock were also very happy with the quality we produced.

“What we got in terms of quality with the Telycam cameras is unbelievable,” Benton continued. “It’s almost insane to think that at the price of the Explore XE, it would give us superior quality than we were getting from a high-end camera from a much more expensive brand.”

Beyond the visual quality advantages, Benton also praised the operational benefits of the Telycam cameras, including a simplified, easy-to-use interface and how matching the exposure and color temperature between cameras is also "super-simple."

Benton plans to purchase more Telycam cameras as Stadium Sports expands, and sees the USA Curling event as an example of the direction the sports production industry is headed. “You don’t need an OB truck with super-expensive gear and large crews,” he said. “With broadcast-quality PTZ cameras, a few computers, NDI connectivity and a small crew, we can bridge that gap. Cost-effective gear and the reduced labor level allow us to bid these events out at a price point that nobody can beat.”

The Telycam cameras have become an important part of that shift. “From beginning to end, my engagement with Telycam has been great,” Benton concluded. “From the sales process and getting answers to technical questions, to the outstanding results, it’s been a super-pleasant experience. The Explore XE cameras are giving us incredible value, which allows us to be competitive at the high end of our market.”

Iris, which was acquired by Audinate earlier this summer, has officially launched. The platform was designed to transform how cameras are controlled, and productions are managed. By turning virtually any PTZ camera into a software-connected, remotely controlled device, Iris eliminates the traditional constraints of camera operation, such as hardware dependencies, inconsistent control, and the lack of on-site crews..

[SCN Top 50 Systems Integrators 2025]

The platform removes long-standing pain points for production teams: fragmented control tools and protocols across brands, the need for constant manual adjustments, and the inherent limits of on-site equipment and staffing. Iris changes this by providing universal, browser-based control that works across camera brands and enables full production management from anywhere in the world.

“Setup now takes minutes, not hours,” said Noah Johnson, founder of Iris. “Our custom drivers unlock every camera feature—not just the common ones—and our intelligent framing tools make operating cameras feel natural, fast, and cinematic. And because Iris lives in the cloud, your cameras are now truly remote—you can manage, access, and control them from anywhere, anytime.”

The platform's AI-powered automation handles traditionally manual tasks, like real-time subject tracking and framing, allowing operators to focus on creative decisions rather than technical adjustments. Its intuitive interface ensures that non-technical users can achieve professional results, democratizing access to advanced capabilities that deliver the production quality of larger-budget operations.

The impact extends far beyond individual productions. Organizations using Iris can scale their operations without proportionally increasing their costs or crew size. A single operator can manage multiple cameras across multiple locations, while remote teams collaborate in real time as if they were in the same room. This scalability opens doors to productions that were previously impractical or impossible, from small community theater livestreams to global corporate events spanning multiple time zones.

See more in the video below!

AVT Question: Please share insights on emerging trends, best practices for creating high-quality content that engages audiences, and choosing the best tools for production.

Thought Leader: Vanessa Jensen, Market Development Manager at Shure

The way audiences engage with content has evolved dramatically over the past five years. High-quality content isn’t just about sharp visuals, but about creating interactive, personalized, and multi-sensory environments to engage and capture audiences. High-quality audio is a critical yet often overlooked element of the evolution of content creation.

Whether producing social media content and podcasts or conducting interviews, premium sound quality enhances engagement, credibility, and audience retention. Poor audio and distracting background noise can distract viewers and make even the best visuals look unpolished. In the past, capturing high-quality audio required bulky equipment and a wired setup. Today, with Shure’s MoveMic 88+ Wireless Stereo Microphone, professional wireless audio is more accessible than ever, even for those new to content creation. The compact, direct-to-phone stereo microphone offers a seamless solution for creators who need studio-quality sound while on the go. MoveMic 88+ pairs directly with smartphones via the Shure MOTIV app(s), or to computers and cameras using the MoveMic Receiver, eliminating the need to carry additional audio gear.

With four selectable polar patterns, MoveMic 88+ is adaptable for various recording scenarios, and users can also make real-time adjustments to EQ, noise reduction, compression, and more. Featuring a 100-foot wireless range and up to eight hours of battery life, MoveMic 88+ is built for flexibility, making it the perfect solution for creators, mobile journalists, and filmmakers working in dynamic environments.

Creating content will continue to evolve as advanced tools and the flexibility of wireless connectivity enables creators to produce highly engaging, high-quality content more efficiently than ever.

Sponsored content from Neoti 

Once only used in productions such as the Star Wars franchise series, The Mandalorian, XR studios, also called virtual studios can now be found in the corporate office, higher education, houses of worship, and many other applications. AV Technology sat down with Neoti’s chief technology officer, Aaron Kipfer to learn more about the LED walls and other elements that comprise the virtual studio. 

AV Technology: Neoti is very well known in the broadcast industries, but some of our pro AV audience might not be quite as aware of your brand. So if you wouldn't mind giving us a little bit of an overview, that'd be great.

Aaron Kipfer: Neoti's been around since 2006, and we really dove deep into LED in 2014-15. We felt we had to prove ourselves as a new manufacturer, which is why we started with high-quality, mission-critical displays in the broadcast space. Now we're starting to develop more products outside of the space to target commercial, retail, education, et cetera.

AVT: Tell me about what a virtual studio is.

AK: Really all it means is that what used to be a green screen is now being replaced with LED technology. With LED walls, you can produce backdrops that can change with the environment and provide lighting and other effects that will enhance any kind of video production.

AVT: Are the terms virtual studio and XR studio interchangeable?

AK: XR and virtual studios are basically the same type of thing. XR just means it is mixed media, so it could have some real elements, but most of it is virtually created.

AVT: What are some of the applications that the pro AV audience might see themselves developing?

AK: Once we get into the commercial space, the education sector, or other areas outside of broadcast—all these companies are starting to get into online video creation or Zoom calls. People want to create spaces that aren't just simple green screen features; they're filling office spaces and conference rooms with one- or three-sided LED walls as backdrops—sometimes even including floors and ceilings.

AVT: Let's just take a corporate office, for instance—what elements are needed?

AK: In the simplest of forms, you have the LED wall, the controller, and your cameras that are shooting the talent. But driving the LED wall is the most important part because you have to have some sort of content on it. Often, the engines come from the video game industry, and now people are producing that same type of immersive content and projecting it onto LED walls.

AVT: Are there different pixel pitches that you would consider for different applications—or do all virtual studios use the same pixel pitch?

AK: No, it could be a wide range of pixel pitches. The most important thing with pixel pitch isn't necessarily for it to be as small as possible. You're also considering cost, the size of the space, how far your cameras are from the LED screen, and what you are focusing on. Those factors will determine how tight your pixel pitch needs to be in order to make a good-quality final piece.

AVT: It sounds like it's room size versus application—is that correct?

AK: It's room size, distance to camera, distance to talent—a lot of factors. Broadcast television or news stations are usually at 1.5mm or 1.2mm pixel pitch LEDs because they're a lot closer, and the talent is right in front of a display. We’ve seen some studio spaces, on the other hand, go as high as 3mm to 5mm because the LED walls were so far back.

AVT: What are the key elements are you looking at for an LED wall?

AK: For us, the biggest challenge that we’ve overcome is the ability to produce color-perfect reproduction at low brightness because, as you can imagine, there's not a lot of extra lighting in most of these spaces. The components that you choose for an LED wall have to work together in the best way possible for you to get the best image.

AVT: What components does Neoti provide for the virtual studio?

AK: As a manufacturer, we're focused on the LED itself—making that the best possible product that it can be. Beyond that, we'll provide the control system as part of the package.

AVT:  Mounting LED panels can be tricky, is there a recommendation?

AK: We do consult on the mounting; it depends on the product and on the installation. Depending on what the customer needs or wants aesthetically, we will work with some of the big-name mounting manufacturers to produce custom mounts.

AVT:  What resources would you suggest for integrators or end users who want to learn more about the virtual studio?

AK: We’ve been producing materials for our website, neoti.com, and through our social channels. But the internet is your friend when it comes to learning more about this because you can talk to so many different people. They'll all have different answers on what virtual studios and XR studio spaces are, but everybody agrees on the basics.

Check out the audio version below. 

Want to learn more? Download Why XR is Right For Broadcasters.

About Neoti

Founded in 2006, Neoti is an industry leader in video display technology offering a wide range of dvLED video products designed to provide solutions to many vertical markets and in all environments. We‘ve built on our strength in the mission-critical broadcast market to serve verticals like corporate, sports, education, command centers, healthcare, hospitality and more. Building strong relationships by living out Our Values – Total Commitment, World-Class Support, People First and Partner with Purpose – is foundational to how Neoti does business.

Sponsored content from Legrand | AV

Stephanie Johnson, product manager, and Bob Griffin, business development manager for Vaddio, at Legrand | AV discuss the technology elements that are needed in today's conference spaces with AV Technology’s content director, Cindy Davis.

To listen to the Q/A, check out the video below.

AV Technology: What are the AV technology elements that are needed in today's conference spaces?

Bob Griffin: I think we can boil it down to a distinct checklist of must-haves. Good quality audio pickup is absolutely fundamental, and it's the most important part, even more important than the video. An adequately sized display or multiple displays are critical not just for content, but also for the participants. On the video side, you do need to have camera coverage that is appropriate to capture the participants in the space. That might be a wide field of view for a very small, narrow space or a longer zoom for a larger environment.

Accurate and controllable lighting is perhaps one of the biggest challenges. Every camera benefits from good lighting. A solid internet connection is also critical. Too many of our environments rely only on Wi-Fi for connectivity. One of the things that is often overlooked in a conference environment is when six or eight or 10, 12 people come into a room, they all have their personal devices. They might all have laptops that are connecting automatically, and if my conferencing application is running, it's going to suffer.

The other thing that is critical is having appropriate furniture for the meeting itself. So that might be table height, table design, or cable management and connectivity that are taken care of within the furniture. Typically, the furniture side and the AV side only meet after the purchases are done and the room is designed. Incorporating that into the planning process is also critical.

AVT: With the conference spaces evolving to accommodate the hybrid workforce, scalability and flexibility have really become more important than ever. What do scalability and flexibility mean when it comes to conference spaces?

Stephanie Johnson: I find people use it to mean two different things and figuring out which one they mean is very important. A lot of times scalability can just mean, “I want to take the blueprint of this room and duplicate it across my building.” And sometimes they mean, “I would like to scale the room up and have something in the interim and I need to future-proof it initially to make sure that I can integrate other pieces later.” That planning is not just the current needs of the room, but the ability to add future needs of the room without having to scrap all the equipment and start again.

For flexibility, I find people are meaning both the first and second meanings for scalability. Not just like scaling up in terms of adding cameras or microphones but adding different functionality to the room. So, whenever I hear those words, I always try to interrogate what specifically they mean because you definitely don't want to get part of the way into the design process and find out that you've you know, misunderstood each other.

AVT: A lot of companies are looking to capitalize on combining conference rooms with other types of spaces to create dual purpose rooms. What recommendations do you have to do this successfully?

Johnson: The design for something like that requires a lot of planning, and it’s important to get with the customer to understand the full scope of their needs. The big intangible that you might not think about when you're thinking about the equipment list for the room would be ease of use. The sweet spot of giving people features that they would like, but not making them difficult to access.

AVT: We hear a lot about PTZ (pan-tilt-zoom) cameras, but fixed POV (point of view) cameras have gotten smarter. What are some of the advances in fixed cameras?

Griffin: With the advent of artificial intelligence (AI) capability, and particularly with intelligent auto framing, it is allowing a fixed camera to essentially do what the PTZ was designed to do. And of course, our software codex is also going to be adding a whole lot of features going forward as well. You can essentially accomplish the same thing without the cost of motorization, and without the bulk of the camera. For those conference applications where the size of the room can be captured within the full field of view of the fixed lens, it really makes sense.

Johnson: We’ve seen an uptick in the POV cameras. In the education space, for example, maybe you want to switch to a different view of the front and back of the room. A dual camera design works without needing a full 16 or eight input video switcher.

For the person in the room who's trying to instruct or present, getting the technology out of the way and working for them is key.

To learn more, go to legrandav.com

About Legrand

Legrand | AV brands create amazing AV experiences through innovative solutions and exceptional service. As industry leaders and partners, our brands unite to form a union that is greater than the sum of its parts to provide a comprehensive offering that connects people through technology in education, corporate, house of worship, government and more. We are committed to a culture of sustainability both globally and locally. Thank you for stopping by.

JVC Professional Video, a division of JVCKENWOOD USA Corporation, adds NDI|HX3 to its award-winning KY-PZ510N PTZ CONNECTED CAM Cameras. With this latest free firmware update, users can select NDI|HX3 for the highest quality video with reduced latency, using a fraction of the bandwidth of full NDI. The company will spotlight this feature within its KY-PZ510N camera at the 2023 NAB Show (Booth C4218).

“The addition of the NDI|HX3 option for our PTZ cameras with NDI® capabilities will provide users with a greater level of flexibility without the need to replace their hardware,” says Joseph D’Amico, vice president, JVCKENWOOD USA Corporation. “According to Vizrt, media organizations’ adoption of NDI-enabled devices is growing at a record pace, and we are thrilled to be part of the network of manufacturers to offer this solution. Our inclusion of a variety of NDI codecs to our customers means they also have even more workflow options available to them.”

[JVC Professional Unveils First NDI-Compatible Broadcast Cameras]

The new NDI|HX3 capability enables integrators to take advantage of the KY-PZ510N’s award-winning features, such as its super-wide horizontal angle of view (80 degrees) and focal length of 21.8 to 261.8 millimeters. These features make the KY-PZ510N ideal for live-action events, studios, classrooms, corporate settings, event facilities, sports venues and houses of worship. The cameras also include enhanced SMART auto-tracking that follows one person and can be used to select one of multiple people within its field of view―such as an instructor, pastor or specific individual. Additionally, the incorporated Vertical Interval Time Code (VITC) with Network Time Protocol (NTP) provides the cameras with multi-camera synchronization for seamless live event production.

Using the latest HEVC technology, the cameras ensure higher quality video at lower bitrates for remote production over the internet (REMI). The cameras also support H.264 and H.265/HEVC encoding, offering increased compatibility with a variety of hardware and software applications. Furthermore, the 4K60p output, via both HDMI and streaming, delivers ultra-clear, natural imagery in settings with a lot of movement, such as sports and live events.

[NAB Show 2023 Hub: News and Products You Won't Want to Miss] 

Part of the KY-PZ510 Series of cameras, the KY-PZ510N PTZs feature 4K60P HEVC Secure Reliable Transport (SRT) streaming, which is resilient to bandwidth fluctuations, data loss, and intermittent connectivity, to ensure secure and error-free video delivery over the internet. The cameras also have UVC (USB Video Class) implementation through the USB-C interface, for ubiquitous webcam applications and integration. The KY-PZ510N can also simultaneously output NDI, SRT, and RTMPS for hybrid local/remote workflows to deliver the highest quality distribution to the world’s most popular CDNs.

The NDI|HX3 firmware update will be available from the KY-PZ510NBU and KY-PZ510NWU web pages as a free download for current owners at the end of March.

Sponsored content from Canon

Whether it’s in the classroom or on the field of play, higher education is in the midst of a significant evolution in how students, professors, athletes and fans interact and stay in touch.

Prompted by prolonged campus-wide shutdowns due to the pandemic, remote learning became a more prominent feature in the virtual halls of academia. On the football field, basketball court and other collegiate fields of competition, new economic realities stemming from the pandemic pushed many institutions to look for ways to maximize their video production budgets.

Canon pan-tilt-zoom (PTZ) cameras have answered the call in classrooms and at sporting events, helping colleges and universities respond to and overcome limitations, enabling common-sense steps likely to remain relevant even as the pandemic recedes. 

Sports Production

For example, Charleston Southern University in North Charleston, S.C., deployed Canon CR-N500 PTZ cameras for coverage of the 2021-22 Hercules Tires Big South Basketball Championships.

“We want our productions to be like you are watching ESPN every single night in the Big South Conference so our fans can really enjoy the product, enjoy the games and the content,” said conference commissioner Kyle Kallander.

However, neither the university nor the conference have an ESPN-sized production budget. The Canon PTZs made it simple to add exciting shots—like fan reactions and coaches and players on the benches—with pre-set shot setups and controlled from the production trailer as opposed to camera operators positioned in the rather cramped confines of Buccaneer Fieldhouse.

“That’s just priceless at our level because staffing is an issue. Equipment is an issue. Why? Because budget is an issue. So, to be able to have that kind of expansion—to make a small production group feel like a major production team—is a big deal,” said Mark Bryant, director of broadcast services at the conference.

Thanks to its robust feature set and competitive price point, the Canon CR-N500 PTZ camera is quickly becoming a favorite among collegiate sports producers. Engineered with a high-performance 1-inch CMOS sensor capable of 4K UHD resolution, the camera captures images on par with those of other high-end field production cameras, with less noise in low-light situations. The larger sensor also exhibits a shallow depth of field at large apertures, producing a beautiful bokeh and blurred backgrounds in images, while Canon’s DAF tracks and keeps subjects in sharp focus. Its 15x optical zoom (20x digital) with one of the widest in class 73-degree angles-of-view, and optical stabilization also help bring a new level of flexibility and performance to the PTZ class of cameras.

Support for PoE+ simplifies placement of the CR-N500 in sports venues, reducing the number of cable runs required. Its support for both IP and SDI-based productions ensures shots are easily integrated into newer IP-centric and traditional video workflows.

The CR-N500 also offers a fast and precise auto focus system, which includes face detection and tracking, —attractive solutions in sports production applications. Support for pre-set shot recall, remote control via the Canon RC-IP100 and from certain Ross Video and NewTek video production switchers, as well as use of premium servo motors to ensure ultra-smooth pans, tilts and zooms make the camera simple to integrate into professional production workflows.

In The Classroom

The heightened emphasis on remote learning during the pandemic may be reducing as students get back to the classroom. Still, the lockdowns underscored the role remote learning and PTZ Cameras can play in education going forward, greatly expanding the learning opportunities for students too distant or unable to attend in person.

One challenge, however, has been the inability to replicate the organic back and forth between students and teachers in a real classroom. Canon addressed this with the launch of its Activate My Line of Sight (AMLOS) technology, a hybrid collaboration solution that combines advanced PTZ camera functions and software to enable remote students to see what’s happening in a classroom with clarity. AMLOS even proves angle-corrected views of white boards making it as simple and clear to see what a professor is writing as it would be sitting in desks in a classroom. The AMLOS solution is capable of working with the Canon CR-N500 PTZ camera as well as the CR-N300, which shares some of the same features and offers a longer zoom range at a lower price point, making it an attractive option when budget is the highest priority.

Solutions like AMLOS, and PTZ cameras in the classroom and in collegiate sports production played critical roles in helping colleges and universities maintain operations during the pandemic and have found a permanent home in collegiate life, helping institutions better meet the needs of their students, professors, fans, donors and boosters.

As Big South Conference commissioner Kallander put it, Canon PTZ cameras are helping conference schools put their “best foot forward.”

About Canon

Canon U.S.A., Inc. is a leading provider of consumer, business-to-business, and industrial digital imaging solutions to the United States and to Latin America and the Caribbean markets.

Sony Electronics is expanding its lineup of pan-tilt-zoom (PTZ) cameras with the addition of two 4K models with built-in AI analytics. The SRG-A40 and SRG-A12 cameras automatically and consistently track, and naturally frame presenters, regardless of movement or posture, for seamless content creation and control—all without operating a computer. The new Pan-Tilt-Zoom (PTZ) Auto Framing technology features automatic operation for quick object tracking and rediscovery, as well as multiple Auto Framing options. Highlights of the cameras include image quality with automation, the flexibility of IP, powerful zoom, remote control, and easy configuration and operation. They are ideal for use in education, corporate, medical, government, broadcast, and faith applications, as well as for live events.

“Our latest PTZ cameras truly represent a new generation,” said Rich Ventura, vice president of professional display solutions, Sony Electronics. “While they incorporate the image quality that is Sony’s bedrock, these efficient new models are even smarter than ever with the addition of built-in AI analytics which enable PTZ Auto Framing, paired with the potential resulting from remote control. Our customers have told us that the way in which they capture content—and even the location from which they do it—has changed drastically over the last few years. We listened and created a new user-friendly series that enables mounting freedom, prioritizes location-free operation and creates a streamlined workflow that empowers operators with varying degrees of expertise to create extremely professional content while keeping operating costs down.”

[Create Connected Experiences with Sony]

Smart Automation: PTZ Auto Framing

New to this series of advanced cameras is Sony’s built-in PTZ Auto Framing technology with AI analytics, which improves usability and productivity. Multiple Auto Framing angles provide well-framed options for close-ups, waist-up or full body images, enabling additional creative freedom and customization options. With auto operation, the cameras begin to operate as soon as the power is turned on, searching for and rediscovering an object to track. A combination of advanced and consistent recognition technologies is employed, including facial recognition which can even detect masked faces. A new user-friendly tally light allows users to easily identify which camera is actively in use and tracking movements.

Enhanced Picture Quality

Both the SRG-A40 and SRG-A12 adopt a highly sensitive Exmor R CMOS sensor for high-quality, naturally vivid images with less noise that support 4K 30p and Full HD 60p. The SRG-A40 offers Clear Image Zoom technology which digitally doubles the optical zoom from 20x to 30x in 4K or 40x in Full HD, while the SRG-A12 provides up to 12x zoom. With tele convert mode the SRG-A40 can extend up to 80x zoom, while the SRG-A12 can extend up to 24x, all while offering smooth, fast PTZ movement between cameras. Day mode and night mode help optimize capture in brightness and shadows.

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Flexible and Stable Production

The new models offer 3G-SDI, HDMI, and IP connectivity (NDI|HX through optional license) and can be controlled remotely through VISCA/VISCA over IP, using a single network cable for power, output and control. They also include Power over Ethernet Plus Plus (PoE++), allowing for simplified integration into new or existing environments – without separate power supply cabling. With robust connection and integration options, the new series takes advantage of PTZ cameras’ distinct ability to provide capture and control even in hard-to-reach locations, while offering new angles and vantage points. Support for Real Time Streaming Protocol (RTSP) allows for remote viewing, while Security Reliable Transport (SRT) protocol enables safe, smooth, stable video streaming.

Easy Configuration and Operation

In addition to easy integration and installation, the cameras are simple to set up and use for operators with differing levels of ability. With the picture setting file feature, users can quickly set up and duplicate menu settings from camera to camera creating uniformity and instilling familiarity. The new models’ PTZ motion sync feature enables smooth and rapid PTZ movement to a target position at a maximum ±170-degree pan/tilt angle range. Pre-set recall allows for quick transitions from one camera to other pre-set angles, to capture critical moments. A picture freeze preset can also be used to hold the last image captured in place, as the camera moves—eliminating blurry transition shots and minimizing distraction. Additionally, the virtual webcam driver software can turn up to five connected cameras into collaborative conference and lecture tools using a computer to provide professional image quality during web-based meetings.

Sponsored content from Canon

Live video production of services is certainly not new for many houses of worship, but what has evolved since the pandemic struck in 2020 is the increased number of smaller congregations that began relying on video and live streaming via the internet to keep their faithful informed during those troubled times, and even expand by reaching new congregants online, despite social distancing and lockdowns. 

With the pandemic receding, video production—both for live in-person services and for live streaming—continues to play a central role in helping houses of worship achieve their mission of building community and outreach.

As an increasing number of smaller houses of worship adopt video production and integrate it into their ministry, its created challenges as production staffs typically consist of volunteers with limited or no background in video. It’s fortunate then that today’s pan-tilt-zoom (PTZ) cameras from Canon integrate several features that eliminate the complexity typically associated with video production, enabling inexperienced volunteers to come up to speed quickly and take control over shots. In fact, the benefits and ease of use are so robust that even larger congregations and mega Churches with sizable video equipment complements and experienced, paid video production staff are incorporating Canon PTZ’s into their productions as well.

Highest Level Imaging, Easy To Use

Renowned the world over for its lenses, Canon brings its knowledge and experience designing high-end lenses to its CR-N700, CR-N500 and CR-N300 PTZ cameras. All three models incorporate lens elements that mitigate visual aberrations, thus optimizing their 15x, 15x and 20x optical zoom, respectively.

All three models are also engineered with high-performance 4K UHD CMOS imager sensors. While the CR-N300 offers a 1 /2.3-inch sensor capable of impressive video capture, the CR-N700 and CR-N500 utilize a larger 1-inch 4K UHD CMOS sensor that many houses of worship find particularly attractive when shooting services with low-lighting.

The CR-N700 and CR-N500’s large imager, combined with built-in ND filter and optical stabilization, contribute to capturing a more cinematic look, including shallow depth of field when desired.   

Several other key features make these cameras easy to deploy and use. Premium servo motors controlling pan, tilt and zoom ensure nearly silent, smooth, no-jitter movement.

IP connectivity makes the cameras easy to install and integrate into IP-based video production systems. With Power over Ethernet (PoE) support, houses of worship can simplify cabling. Of course, SDI video output is available for more traditional setups.

Operating the cameras is easy as well. Integrating Canon’s Dual Pixel Auto Focus technology (DPAF) on the CR-N700 and CR-N500, the cameras leverage their CMOS imagers on a pixel-by-pixel basis to sharpen and maintain focus automatically—even when the subject moves. Making DPAF work is an ingenious approach that separates signals from each of the two halves of every pixel, allowing the separate photodiodes used for each pixel to work together, thereby creating phase-difference detection and ultimately ensuring automatic focus.

Canon PTZ cameras also leverage advanced facial and subject recognition tracking to maintain focus automatically when panning and zooming. Canon’s Eye AF technology, available on the CR-N700, contributes by looking at the eyes of subjects and tracking movement while maintaining focus.

Each autofocus and tracking technology simplifies video production, thus allowing those with limited experience to quickly perform like skilled camera operators.

The cameras also offer various image adjustments that allow all the Canon PTZ cameras to match the look of the cameras already being used in an existing setup.

Further simplifying operation is Canon’s RC-IP100 remote controller which features a joystick to control pan, tilt, zoom, exposure and other camera settings. The RC-IP100 makes it possible for a single operator to recall settings for multiple Canon PTZ and supported Cinema cameras (up to 100)—a particularly helpful feature for houses of worship looking to minimize production head count.

Proven Performance

The Salvation Army Hollywood illustrates how Canon PTZ cameras can transform live production. Coming out of the pandemic, the organization replaced the smartphone cameras it was using to live stream services with five Canon CR-N500’s. The decision was part of a facility upgrade to make its 300-seat worship space available for benefit shows and even rental to other churches to raise funds for its mission.

With the addition of the Canon RC-IP100, the group dramatically simplified its live video productions by relying on a single PTZ camera operator. ”I can literally have a symphony of cameras moving as if I have six operators at all times, but I’m only one guy,” said Salvation Army Hollywood PTZ operator Tommy Mach.

About Canon

Canon U.S.A., Inc. is a leading provider of consumer, business-to-business, and industrial digital imaging solutions to the United States and to Latin America and the Caribbean markets.

Sponsored content from Canon

Canon has a deep history in all areas of the imaging industry, designing and manufacturing our own sensors and optical lens elements, to producing our own Steppers for chip manufacturing. We at Canon take pride in each ‘link of the imaging chain’. Additionally Canon has always been about making high-end imaging available to the masses, whether that was the introduction of the AE-1, the first camera to feature computer controlled automation, the T50 the first SLR to feature an Automatic setting, or the EOS 5D Mark II providing HD video on a full-frame sensor at an incredible price point. Canon has always made premium image quality available to the mass market.

The pandemic years saw shifts in production that Canon was ready for; we saw major broadcast being produced remotely, camera crews implementing robotic rigs and talent remaining at home while control room staff matched images from multiple locations and feeds.

Audiences became more sophisticated as well, as shifts in color, contrast, or depth-of-field were prominently noticed by viewers, as well as framing a shot and camera angles explored new creative options that kept audiences engaged and enthralled. Adaptable imaging solutions like PTZ cameras experienced a surge as they found themselves in a wide range of streaming and broadcast applications from church services, to streaming collegiate sports, even temporary installations for weddings, corporate town halls and commercial shoots.

To complement the Canon cameras already on these shoots, Canon introduced a line of PTZ cameras that match the color, and look of its professional camcorders, and in some cases, leverage the same image sensor and optical glass elements.

Not your Father’s PTZ

“The efficiencies offered by PTZ cameras might have been explored during the pandemic, but they are here to stay,” said, Ricardo Chen, Director of B2B Product Planning. Canon has since introduced five different PTZ models, offering three indoor models as well as two outdoor models, each providing the Canon color science and image flexibility to enhance any production.

Sophisticated audiences, are no longer satisfied with a static shot for a live stream or conference feed. They want multiple angles and viewpoints, slow zoom creeps or juicy wide perspectives capturing the enormity of a venue or location. Producing a stream or broadcast like this normally requires a skilled operator or knowledgeable volunteer at each camera position, and enough space to accommodate both the equipment and operator, without impeding on any on-location audience or viewers. All challenges easily overcome with PTZ cameras as part of your production or feed.

“What we’ve seen as the most successful implementations of our PTZ cameras, have come from the smallest spaces,” remarked Aaron McNally, Manager of B2B Vertical Sales. At Charleston Southern University in South Carolina, Canon PTZ cameras are deployed in one of their gymnasiums to stream both basketball and volleyball games. While previously these streams required camera operators with limited vantage points, the Canon CR-N500 PTZ cameras are able to be placed throughout, without any interference for spectator viewing, and allow a single operator to control and provide multiple camera angles, giving a small production a grand look. Plus, the CR-N500’s match the roaming Camcorders on the sidelines that student operators control, giving audiences at home or streaming in their dorm, an engaging way to watch their school’s games and events.

Another deployment we’ve seen of our PTZ lineup has been in the House of Worship market. Services have always been streamed and broadcast, but with so many congregants at home each institution sought out engaging ways to deliver their messages. And with so many services online, facilities were not just reaching local parishioners but anyone across the country or globe for that matter. The musical performances that are such an engaging part of weekly services also provide opportunity for creative cinematography and viewership. The Salvation Army in Los Angeles employed a host of Canon CR-N500 PTZ cameras to cover not just the church services but also the talented musicians each and every week. The dramatically lit performances have always been engaging for those watching in person, but the addition of multiple PTZ cameras allow the performances to take on new life for those streaming at home.

“Our PTZ cameras not only provide stunning 4K images, and great low-light shots, but we also have two models equipped with outdoor housings for dynamic exterior shots,” mentioned Rich Eilers, National Sales Director, “We have been demoing outdoor PTZ cameras on several campuses who are looking to pair them with roaming Cinema EOS cameras for coverage of baseball, softball, soccer, lacrosse and football games.”

The pairing of PTZ cameras with other Canon equipment has lead Canon down another path, which is control and communication. This past year Canon has introduced its proprietary XC protocol or camera and image control over IP, and during that time Canon has updated the firmware of several camcorders and Cinema EOS camera models, including the EOS C500 Mark II, C300 Mark III and C70, to add XC protocol control to those models as well, providing a fully systemized solution for customers at nearly any budget level.

While fully compatible with various controllers on the market, Canon does offer its own controller, the RC-IP100, which can support up to 100 cameras, with dozens of pre-sets and repeatable control options.

The combination of features and system flexibility like the XC or NDI digital video networking protocol, full IP control capabilities, PoE (power over internet), have placed Canon PTZ in many venues, with more each day, helping each to deliver a big budget look!

To learn more about Canon’s systemized set-ups and PTZ cameras, please visit www.usa.canon.com/pro or download this free resource guide.

About Canon

Canon U.S.A., Inc. is a leading provider of consumer, business-to-business, and industrial digital imaging solutions to the United States and to Latin America and the Caribbean markets.

Initially introduce in April and awarded ‘Best of Show’ at InfoComm 2022 in June, Sony Electronics SRG-X40UH PTZ camera is now available. The latest addition to the PTZ lineup adopts 4K Exmor R CMOS image sensor and delivers high-quality images at 4K alongside powerful zoom capability with a wide viewing angle, UVC and HDMI connectivity. It is planned to ship in North America in November 2022. 

The camera is an ideal choice for remote communication and monitoring in a wide range of markets which have seen strong growth in the last couple of years, such as corporate, education, and healthcare. With simple functionality and interface connection, it’s easy to connect and use for live streaming video.

[Sony Roadmap 2022]

As an affordable 4K PTZ camera, the SRG-X40UH will deliver outstanding detail and high-quality imagery, natural color reproduction and high sensitivity that captures facial or other relevant details in remote communications situations, even in low light. In addition, oversampling from 4K will deliver excellent image quality even in FHD.

A powerful zoom up to 40x in FHD and 30x in 4K with the Clear Image Zoom technology, combined with an approximately 70-degree wide viewing angle will complement smooth and rapid PTZ movement. A ceiling mounting option means that this camera can capture important scenes in different locations, from small conference rooms to large auditoriums.

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The SRG-X40UH, with its simple UVC and HDMI connections and PoE+ support, can be integrated into existing systems with minimum cabling, and remotely controlled through a VISCA/VISCA-over-IP command.

“Over the past two years, the world has witnessed and adapted to drastic changes in the way we work and learn. Such circumstances have created a pressing demand for efficient remote communication tools like our new SRG-X40UH PTZ camera, which multiple users can access anytime, anywhere with high reliability,” said Theresa Alesso, president, imaging products and solutions Americas, Sony Electronics. “Sony has driven the adoption of 4K technologies for many years, and more now than ever, the additional detail is providing customers and audiences with superior image quality and more options for creativity.”

With over 20 years of technical expertise, Sony’s range of PTZ cameras and remote cameras is now widely used for remote teaching and communication purposes at universities and hospitals, in corporate facilities as well as remote production for live events and broadcasts.

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Remote communication in corporate or education settings

From video conferences to video recording, Sony’s PTZ cameras and remote cameras are reliable options that suit a wide range of teaching spaces and meeting areas. Silent and discreet, the new SRG camera is a stylish addition to any boardroom or teaching setting. The cameras enhance teaching and collaborative learning through live streaming, connecting students and lecturers in real time across different campuses or locations. 4K clarity also contributes to today’s increased demand for interactive discussions, streaming and recording lectures and classroom presentations for both live and future use.

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Medical environments

The SRG series is currently used in established healthcare facilities to remotely monitor patients and equipment to ensure optimum settings for patient care even under low light conditions. The cameras also capture, manage and distribute high-quality footage of clinical procedures live from operating and treatment rooms to lecture halls for training and education purposes.

PTZOptics first camera of the Move Series will be released later this year and offer built-in auto-tracking and universal compatibility, all in 4K.

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The Move camera features SDI, HDMI, USB, and IP output, and comes native with NDI|HX for unparalleled performance and versatility. It is capable of 4K at 60fps (1080p at 60fps over SDI) and features a built-in tally light. The Move offers built-in auto-tracking capabilities—no need to run software on another computer—freeing teams of the need for a camera operator. With 12x and 20x optical zoom available, the Move can fit seamlessly into any production scenario.

“The Move has all the features that our clients have been asking for,” said Matt Davis, director of technology and information systems at PTZOptics. “We’ve worked hard to create a solution that can adapt to future technology, including the intelligence features that are quickly becoming commonplace in the tech industry. The Move allows users to run their production in a way that works for them—both now and in the future.”

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In addition to the Move’s auto-tracking features, users will also have access to PTZOptics’ latest Web UI—updated to provide everything users need in one simple menu. Almost every feature in the Web UI has a tutorial function, perfect for novice producers navigating the settings for the first time.

Marshall Electronics unveiled the CV420e, it’s first-ever digital PTZ (ePTZ) camera at the 2022 IBC Show. The CV420e is suitable for professional broadcast and Pro AV applications including professional sporting events, reality television, broadcast trucks, weather vehicles, and a range of AV installations that require an ultra-high quality networkable video source.

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The CV420e features a high performance 9-1/2-Megapixel 4K sensor capable of 4K (UHD) resolution up to 60fps with ultra-clean HD resolutions. The camera’s 4.5mm lens features a wide angle, over 100-degree field of view that delivers crystal clear video with minimal distortion. The CV420e’s digital pan, tilt, and zoom comes with more than 250 presets that are savable and selectable from any number of command sources including IR remote, video management software, web browser GUI, OBS plugins, vMix, and a host of other compatible soft codecs and devices.

“We look forward to debuting our first ePTZ camera at the 2022 IBC show,” said Tod Musgrave, director of cameras for Marshall Electronics. “Instead of a robotic movement, CV420e’s ePTZ functionality simulates pan, tilt and zoom operations digitally inside of a larger 4K resolution pixel space. The CV420e will allow users to maintain access to wide angles along with useable digitally zoom and lateral maneuvers within the sensor. This gives our customers another option for capturing unique and creative content from a very compact camera body.”

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The CV420e’s compact and durable design (4.5 inches long) measures 113 x 70 x 51mm and comes with rear protection wings to avoid untimely cable disconnect drops. The CV420e has an audio 3.5mm input (line/mic) embedded on all available outputs and can be controlled via remote control (included), Ethernet (IP), and/or USB. The CV420e also comes equipped with a front facing Tally Light for LIVE and available designations and OBS Plugins/Docks, VMS, vMix, Clickshare, and more.

Global Pro AV manufacturer Hall Technologies unveiled its new line of PTZ cameras at ISE 2022 in Barcelona. The HT-CAM-4K-EPTZ features 4K ultra-high-definition in a sleek new design. Additionally, the CAM-1080PTZ features vivid and high-resolution video with fantastic color rendition and handheld remote with intuitive controls. Both are ideal for online education, training rooms, video conferencing, house of worship, tele-medicine, and unified communication applications.

[Hall Technologies Turnkey Solution Transforms Education and Conferencing]

What to know:

• The two sleek new cameras are aimed at corporate and classroom collaboration. 
• Cameras offer rich video output with high-resolution video with true HD color gamut. 
• The ePTZ camera has built in AI intelligence that frames participants automatically for more fluid meetings. 

“Hall´s engineering team has designed a collaboration solution with tech managers in mind. Our new line of PTZ cameras offer advanced functionality and superior performance,” said Ken Eagle, vice president of technology for Hall. “Our HT-CAM-1080PTZ features advanced ISP processing algorithms. It supports H.264/H.265 encoding which stabilizes under low bandwidth conditions, and features multiple video output interfaces, audio/video compression standards, and USB 3.0 support for dual coding streaming.”

“Next is the incredible HT-CAM-4K-EPTZ,” Eagle continued. ”The sleek form factor houses powerful 4K UHD coupled with AI intelligence delivering vivid images and streaming for seamless collaboration and connectivity. I like the auto framing feature; it works by using a 100-degree wide angle lens to ensure all participants and materials can be properly viewed. This camera automatically does all the work, making meetings more meaningful and less stressful.”

Communication today is enhanced by using video in huddle spaces, meeting rooms of all sizes, education classrooms, lecture halls, houses of worship, online streaming applications and more. These cameras offer rich video output to make collaborations and communication effortless.

The VC-R30 marks the arrival of a new generation of cost-effective cameras which offer a level of image quality and an array of video connections that have not previously been seen in a camera at this price point. Lumens VC-R30 features simultaneous USB 3.0, HDMI, 3G-SDI, and Ethernet video outputs for a high degree of connection and workflow flexibility which is ideal for users in AV, video production, and live events.

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“Increasingly, our customers need cameras that have the flexibility to adapt," commented Steven Liang, vice president of product development for Lumens. "The VC-R30 is ready to fit into traditional video workflows, IP-based streaming networks, and unified communication and collaboration (UCC) systems for interactive video comms. With the growth in popularity of hybrid classrooms, meeting spaces, and conferences, VC-R30 supports simultaneous output via Ethernet, USB, SDI, and HDMI, for connection to local displays and remote guests at the same time.”

Equipped with a professional 1/2.8-inch image sensor, the VC-R30 provides excellent image quality in all lighting conditions. The smooth robotic camera movement and 12x optical zoom lens make the camera suitable for positioning anywhere from an auditorium to a small training room. The intelligent autofocus system enables the VC-R30 to deliver sharp pictures even when the camera is in motion or when the zoom angle changes.

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Covering a wide 72.5-degree horizontal FoV and with plug and play USB, the camera is a great option for videoconferencing. Compliant with most video production, video conference, and streaming applications, including Zoom, Skype, WebEx, Teams, Google Meet, Wowza, YouTube, OBS, and Wirecast. Available in black or white, it can be positioned upright or inverted to suit your studio, theater, classroom, courtroom, or house of worship.

When it comes to live streaming, your choice of camera equipment is one of your most important decisions. If you want the best quality image without spending too much, JVC has two IP-controlled cameras that could fit your HD and/or 4K production needs.

The KY-PZ400N, JVC’s first 4K PTZ production camera, features a 1/2.5-inch 8.51-megapixel UHD (3840x2160) low-light CMOS sensor. The HD KY-PZ200 camera includes a 1/2.8 2.07-megapixel (1920x1080p) CMOS sensor. Both cameras can synchronize with other cameras (using vertical interval time code) for live productions with NDI/HX and SRT streaming technology. Either one can be connected to a computer via a USB cable if a webcam is needed for remote events. And if you need to control more than one PTZ camera, the JVC RM-LP100 remote camera controller can make that happen.

With streaming, you want the highest quality with a low-latency IP video transmission standard utilizing H.265/H.264/MJPEG encoding. These advanced streaming technologies adds forward error correction (FEC), automatic repeat request (ARQ), and encryption that prevent the loss typically found on internet connections.

Under the Hood

Let’s look specifically at each camera, the controller, and their technical abilities.

The KY-PZ400N has a built-in 4.4-52.8mm 12x optical zoom lens and plenty of options for output and streaming. The unit outputs UHD in 25, 29.97, and 30fps; 1080p in 25, 29.97, 30, 50, 50.94, and 60fps; and 720p in 25, 50, 59.94, and 60fps. It also supports IP streaming in H.265, H.264, RTMP, RTSP, and M-JPEG in 1080p, 720p, 480p, at 360p at 23.98p, 24p, 25p, 29.97p, 30p, 50i, 50p, 59.94i and p, and 60p.

[Power of the PTZ]

The front of the KY-PZ400N includes a lens cap over the swiveling camera unit. The unit also features a solid base and various ports—mini line I/O, 12V DC in, Ethernet, USB 2, 3G-SDI, HDMI, and RS-232 I/O—on the back. Its remote control (two AAA batteries, not included) allows selection of up to four cameras, zoom control, focus, and selectable presets. A mounting plate is also included.

In contrast, the KY-PZ200 has a 20x optical zoom compared to the 12x optical zoom of the KY–PZ400. Beyond the lens and the ability to shoot in UHD, the KY–PZ200 has the identical capabilities as the KY-PZ400. However, the rear of the PZ200 adds a USB 3 input. The PoE-enabled Ethernet port on both cameras can provide power in lieu of the AC adapter when used with a PoE switch. Both models are available in white or black housing.

When you plug in the AC cord, each PTZ camera performs its own setup by rotating, panning, and tilting. When the standby light goes off and the blue power light illuminates, you’re ready.

The RM-LP100 supports IP control of up to 100 cameras and stores up to 100 presets.  Its front panel has large, easy-to-see buttons, as well as a pan/tilt joystick, zoom rocker switch, and seven-inch touchscreen. The rear panel includes the power switch, 12V DC input, Ethernet port, USB service port, multi-pin tally, serial input connector, and eight selectable I/O function switches.

Adventures in Networking

My testing opportunity was to record events that were happening in two different rooms in my home for a Facebook Live event. My desire was to have the end product look as good as if I were shooting it in a TV studio. I could have used the PZ400’s UHD capabilities in one room and the PZ200’s HD in another, but the sizes of the rooms were too similar to go the extra 4K mile. Thankfully, you can adjust the frame rates and resolutions so the cameras will match.

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Because I was using two cameras and the RM-LP100, I needed to connect an Ethernet cable from the back of each camera to a Netgear FS116 switch. When a 802.3af PoE switch is used, the switch will also provide power to the camera, which eliminates the need for the AC adapter—a great feature for installations in places with no access to AC power. With another Ethernet cable, I connected the FS116 to the LAN input on the LP100. A fourth Ethernet cable went from the back of the FS116 to my modem.

With everything hardwired together, the cameras needed their respective IP addresses for streaming. If you’re using a computer with a Windows operating system, download JVC’s IP address setup tool, which will give you access to the upgrade_v2.9.3.zip file. Go to the bottom of the zip file to upgrade_standard.exc. This is an extremely easy way to set your camera(s) so they are ready to stream. You can also download the KY-PZ200/400 setup guide, which clearly explains the setup and operation of the “upgrade_v2.9.3 zip with pictures” from the JVC website.

Being a Mac user, it was not quite so easy. At the time of this writing, a Mac version is in the development phase—but until it is available, setup will require jumping through several proverbial hoops. First, you need to determine the IP address of each camera by pressing a series of keys on the remote control. Once the IP address is displayed on your monitor (connected via an HDMI cable), you need to go to JVC’s Web GUI to manually enter your information for that piece of equipment.

Once I finished those steps, I selected “network” and filled in the rest of the information for the second camera and remote control. To stream on Facebook Live, I copied and pasted the information into the URL and chose “on,” “video,” and “audio.” Within moments, my stream was live on Facebook, and I could control both cameras with the controller. The wireless remote and the built-in GUI also allow access to the camera functions, but the controller is much more convenient.

First Impressions

My gripe with much of the content on the Web is that the video quality is poor. Most viewers are focusing (pardon the pun) on what’s being said, not the production values. As a filmmaker, I believe the viewer will get more out of the presentation if it looks professional. Of course, it takes more effort to produce high-end visuals.

Both cameras are high enough quality for corporate work and even broadcast applications. What struck me in the very beginning was how sharp the picture looked from each of these cameras. Even I looked good. Obviously, you can purchase cheaper equipment, but as the adage goes, you get what you pay for.

Using the networked JVC PTZ cameras and controller is an easy way to stream to Facebook, YouTube, or almost anywhere. The PC software makes setup much easier; you can probably make everything function quickly and without a technician. While a Mac version of the software should be available soon, setup is currently a bit more complicated for Mac users. I was slightly out of my comfort zone—and without help from JVC, I would have had a much more difficult time.

JVC’s PTZ cameras offer extremely easy installation for PC users—basically plug and play. This makes the installer’s job much easier because the end user needs almost no training. If they can use a remote or the controller, they can operate and stream. For Mac users, JVC’s site allows manual input of the necessary information.  After the first time, streaming should become second nature.

When you mention PTZ cameras, many people have an outdated image of a static camera with grainy picture quality, leaving users frustrated from the hassle and time it takes to operate. However, with recent enhancement of sensors, feature sets, lenses, and image processors, PTZ cameras have advanced to a place where they are now starting to be used in conjunction with professional grade studio cameras—and you might be hard pressed to notice the difference.

“It used to be that the PTZ was considered somewhat inferior in terms of picture quality,” admitted Jim Jensen, senior category manager, remote production systems for Panasonic. “But as of recent, they have really improved to the point that they are now being used in more demanding settings.”

With the improved picture quality and versatility of the product, many settings, including houses of worship, higher education facilities, and corporate meeting rooms, are turning to the some of the latest PTZ cameras to help produce high-quality steaming of their events and enable internal teams to meet and collaborate virtually with ease.

Unique Angles

It's important to fully understand how you will use your PTZ cameras before committing to a purchase, because this will help with making decisions about features like image stabilization, light sensitivity, zoom range, and lens quality. Not all PTZ cameras are created equal, and current models can range in price anywhere from $2,000 to $15,000.

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“In this area, you really do get what you pay for,” said Mark Siegel, vice president of business development for Key Code Media. “Mind you, some of the more cost effective PTZ cameras are very capable based on the application. As an example, I can buy many more cameras at a lower price than a single high-quality camera, and one may not need all the features of that one camera. By having more, it gives many more viewing angles.”

The small size of PTZ cameras has cemented them as a versatile solution that provides flexibility with how and where they can be used. “From the inside of a race car, the top of a basketball net, in a conference room, courtroom, church, schoolroom, and of course, a studio—you can virtually put a PTZ camera anywhere you can get a CAT cable these days,” said Siegel.

Because of their size, PTZ cameras can be installed in areas that are difficult to reach areas, as well as within areas that would be unsafe or impossible for a camera operator to be placed. Many cameras can even be obscured to the point where the user barely notices their presence, helping them blend in or compliment the venue in which they are installed.

Pick Your Features

Auto tracking, a fast-developing area within PTZ cameras, removes the need for operators and relies on built-in controls to guide the camera by movement and sound. “With automated camera control, no camera operator is needed and no one needs to pan, tilt, or zoom the camera from a control panel,” said Rony Sebok, CTO of 1 Beyond. “Intelligent cameras, like the AutoTracker 3, have all the automation built into them. This camera will smoothly track a presenter using facial and motion detection.”

1 Beyond also offers Automate VX, an intelligent camera switching solution that will aim the camera based on the source of the audio. “These voice-activated switching solutions can replace an entire camera crew, and intelligently switch from camera to camera to follow a conversation in a room and highlight the active speaker,” Sebok added. 

In October, Panasonic introduced a new line of integrated PTZ cameras focused on advancing content creation and streamlined remote production workflows within home office, corporate, education, and live content creation environments. “With this new line of PTZs, we took a close look at what customers were telling us,” Jensen said, “and they really wanted low to mid-PTZs to be able to take them to the next level. That’s really where I see our PTZs being different.”

There are five cameras in the new line. Three models (AW-UE40, AW-UE50 and AW-UE80) offer a new direct drive system that delivers accurate pan and zoom capabilities while assuring quiet operation for use in virtually any video shooting situation. The UE80 offers exclusive features like 4K 60p resolution, high bandwidth 100 Mpbs NDI for transmitting high-quality, low latency video, and FreeD protocol support that allows users to incorporate virtual studio sets and elements into remote productions.

The more affordable models (AW-HE20 and AW-UE20) are tailored for companies looking to expand capabilities for remote employees by giving them access to high quality video streaming, making it perfect for small office spaces or at-home work settings. The new design features a wide 71-degree viewing angle and 12x optional zoom.

[TEKVOX Adds 4K Videoconferencing, PTZ Cameras to Line]

PTZ camera technology has been advancing dramatically, and manufacturers are quickly working to incorporate new tends into their products. One feature many manufacturers highlighted was ePTZ, or electronic PTZ, which uses high-resolution image cropping to replace the physical pan, tilt, and zoom functions of the camera. This process can also offer limited zoom before there is image distortion, making it more effective in smaller, intimate spaces. As AR and AI capabilities continue to expand, current PTZ products will be pushed to their limits within a virtual setting and will need to look for new ways to adapt.

Under Control

In many settings, you won’t have a professional tech team readily available to manage and operate your technology. With this in mind, many users are turning to the PT-JOY-G4 joystick from PTZOptics, which provides the versatility to switch between network and serial control, making it ideal for houses of worship or conference room spaces where volunteers or employees are often the ones operating the technology.

With the ability to operate in safe mode, the product can grow with the abilities of your team. It’s also a gamechanger for producers who want to control remote cameras through a web interface, giving them the ability to produce content from any location.

“It’s one of the only joysticks that you can use with an external monitor,” said Stephen Heywood, broadcast engineer for PTZOptics. “I can switch cameras inside of it. I can frame up shots. If I’m a TD, I don’t need to be in front of the switching solution. I can just have a monitor hooked up to the joystick and be ready for whoever is producing.”

Additional PTZ Options

• Apantac AP-1080P-PTZ-20x–Compatible with all leading videoconferencing software, it offers 20x optical zoom and 2x digital zoom with 61-degree FOV.

• JVC KY-PZ400—Integrated Vertical Interval Time Code (VITC) with Network Time Protocol (NTP) allows multi-camera sync for live event production.

• Lumens VC-TR1–Advanced facial detection and camera tracking technology utilizes a dual-camera design to monitor the presenter and the full width of the stage simultaneously.

• PTZOptics PT30X NDI–Features include broadcast frame rates and NDI video output, which are needed by many video production professionals.

• Sony BRC-X400, SRG-X400, and SRG-X120–Sony’s Version 3.0 update adds Secure Reliable Transport (SRT) protocol, which makes them ideal for a live events, education, and remote production.

The What: JVC Professional Video is introducing its new 4K KY-PZ400NW/NB PTZ cameras, the newest addition to its Connected Cam line of cameras. The HD versions of the PTZs, the KY-PZ200NW/NB and the more economical HD KY-PZ200W/B, will begin shipping in November. Ideal for sports, concerts, and other live event broadcasts or productions, the cameras provide new creative streaming possibilities for an ever-evolving remote media landscape. 

The What Else: With integrated NDI|HX technology from the Vizrt Group, the KY-PZ400NW/NB and KY-PZ200NW/NB cameras now offer a high-quality, low-latency IP video transmission standard that is ideal for streaming in an ever-evolving media landscape. All three camera options provide optimal image quality and performance for remote production over the internet, and are equipped with SRT technology, H.265/H.264/MJPEG encoding and VITC (Vertical Interval Timecode) multi-camera synchronization. Each model is also available in black or white to best match the ambience of the venue/project.

All three cameras also include SRT, HTTP, RTSP, RTMP/RTMPS and standard protocols. With SRT open-source technology now becoming synonymous to JVC cameras, PTZ users are afforded a truly future-proofed solution with continual firmware updates. The advanced streaming capabilities of the incorporated SRT technology adds automatic repeat request (ARQ) and forward error correction (FEC) to prevent packet loss typically found on internet connections. It also offers stream encryption for content protection

The Bottom Line: For remote conferences and lectures, the KY-PZ200N and KY-PZ200 support UVC (USB Video Class), which enables the cameras to be used as webcams. Both models can be directly connected to a PC using a USB cable (sold separately), making them ideal for a range of educational and other digital applications.

The What: ClearOne is introducing the Unite 200 Pro, a new professional-grade camera featuring a 20x optical zoom lens plus a 16x digital zoom for extra distance if needed. Delivering 1080p quality at 60 frames per second with full pan, tilt and extended zoom functions, the Unite 200 Pro is optimally suited for use in large spaces where close up, high resolution video capture is desired. 

The What Else: With the ability to capture 1080p quality video of all meeting room participants, or to focus on a single speaker, the Unite 200 Pro is designed to impress every conference participant. Whether a meeting is held on ClearOne's COLLABORATE Space platform or on other leading services including Microsoft Teams, Zoom, WebEx or GoToMeeting, the camera's remote-controlled operation combines ease of use with innovative features to offer an unrivaled conferencing experience for large rooms. Presenters and meeting hosts gain an incredible degree of control through the camera's combined 20x optical zoom and 16x digital zoom, ensuring precise focus on the most important visuals and providing close-up views in even the largest meeting spaces.

The UNITE 200 Pro provides flexibility and enhances ease of use through support of multiple protocols used to integrate with third-party components. Featuring USB, HDMI and IP connection options, the camera is ideally suited to use with streaming applications through RTSP, RTMP and Multicast. It also supports industry-standard protocols including UVC 1.1, TCP-IP, HTTP and DHCP.

The Bottom Line: Like other ClearOne UNITE cameras, the UNITE 200 Pro can be installed using a wall mount, ceiling mount or display mount and comes with a free two-year support and maintenance warranty.

The What: ClearOne's new camera control module for AMX Netlinx series control systems is designed to work with ClearOne's BMA 360 Beamforming Microphone Array Ceiling Tile and ClearOne's UNITE 200, or any other pan-tilt-zoom (PTZ) camera that complies with the VISCA control protocol.

The new module  simplifies configuration of the BMA 360's camera control feature and comes with an easy-to-use graphical interface that associates PTZ presets in the camera with BMA 360 Beam Reports.

The What Else: When a local talker activates a given beam in the BMA 360, the control module recalls the associated PTZ preset in the camera. The module also supports returning the camera to a "home" position after a period of no voice activity.

Previously, ClearOne provided sample code and command documentation to help AMX programmers build their own custom camera control modules. While that gave AMX programmers increased flexibility, ClearOne's customers asked for a pre-programmed solution that would cover most camera tracking applications. The new module developed by ClearOne represents a product-quality implementation for control of up to two PTZ cameras per AMX module that is ready for immediate deployment by AV integrators. Multiple instances of this module can be configured to control more than two cameras.

The Bottom Line: According to the company, the new AMX module will save a significant amount of time and labor cost for BMA 360 camera control applications. It is now available as a free software download at www.clearone.com.

Robotic camera manufacturer PTZOptics has joined the SRT Alliance, an initiative whose members aim to overcome the challenges of low-latency video streaming by supporting the collaborative development of SRT (Secure Reliable Transport), an open source video transport protocol.

As part of its overall strategy to provide broadcast-quality cameras and control devices that work on any network infrastructure, PTZOptics has steadily expanded the local area network control and distribution options for its entire product line. Now, as a member of the SRT Alliance, PTZOptics will be helping to define the use cases and technical requirements for secure livestreaming and video production over wide area networks. 

[ What’s Next for Production and Streaming? ]

The SRT Alliance, founded by Haivision in April 2017, already has more than 500 members. SRT, an open source video transport protocol and technology stack originally developed and pioneered by Haivision, enables the delivery of high-quality and secure, low-latency video across the public Internet. 

“Our customers want to be able to live stream without limitations,” said Paul Richards, director of marketing, PTZOptics. “We are proud to join the SRT Alliance in developing an open-source protocol that will provide security, reliability, and quality for low-latency streams on unmanaged networks.”

“With the SRT Alliance, PTZOptics is joining an industry movement to improve the way the world streams video,” said Suso Carrillo, director of the SRT Alliance for Haivision. “We’re pleased to see the SRT protocol being actively implemented by some of the world’s most trusted broadcast technology providers as its adoption and industry-wide recognition continues to grow, becoming the de facto standard for low latency internet streaming.”

What Is SRT?

A Technical Look at SRT • Secure Reliable Transport (SRT) Alliance is publicizing its new protocol as a good way to deliver video, but is it backed by a solid technical design? Phil Hippensteel offers his verdict.

Using SRT for Live Streaming • This open-source, low-latency video streaming protocol is designed to make live AV transmission simpler.

The What: Apantac has launched the AP-1080P-PTZ-20x (NDI), a 1080p pan tilt zoom camera for professional video and streaming applications using NDI. The camera offers 3G SDI, HDMI, USB 3.0, and HD video over IP decoding. Its support for a wide variety of formats supports use in house of worship, educational and corporate applications.

The What Else: NDI integration means the camera is recognizable as a source by other NDI-enabled applications and devices connected to a standard Ethernet local area network. By incorporating NDI, it communicates using the NDI protocol and allows bidirectional distribution and access of live video over existing IP LAN infrastructure. It also seamlessly integrates with most videoconferencing and other software applications.

[ The Latest Pro PTZ Cameras ]

In a typical application, an SDI or HDMI camera video feed can be converted into an NDI stream and sent over the network and an NDI video feed can be converted into an SDI or HDMI video output and plugged into a monitor.

NDI is a brand of the Vizrt Group and a royalty-free technology that allows video and audio sources to be shared bi-directionally across a network, eliminating the need for costly direct connections, expensive cable runs, and infrastructure upgrades while turning every source into a destination instantly available anywhere on the network.

“NDI has changed the way content is accessed, created and distributed, making video accessible over IP,” said Apantac president Thomas Tang. “We are really excited about our first NDI product launch as our PTZ camera allows users to deliver live video over IP to any compatible system or software on the network, using a single cable for all the video, audio and control.”

[ NDI Unveils NDI Version 5 ]

“NDI-enabled devices like Apantac’s new PTZ NDI camera exponentially increase the video sources available for storytellers, creating efficiencies and opportunities that did not previously exist,” said NDI vice president Michael Kornet. “We’ve known and admired the team at Apantac for a number of years and recognize that this is a significant moment for AV and broadcast customers who want to work with this respected brand as they come on board with their new NDI camera.”

The Bottom Line: This professional-grade meeting room camera features 20x optical zoom and 2x digital zoom with a 61° field of view and a 5 megapixel CMOS sensor.

It is estimated there were nearly half a billion viewers following on live-streaming platforms in 2020—up 11.7 percent from the previous year. While the pandemic might have piqued the overall awareness, interest in Esports has been on the rise for several years.

Pioneering  Esports on a collegiate level is the National Association of Collegiate Esports (NACE)—the largest member association of varsity Esports programs at colleges and universities in the U.S. The organization comprises more than 5,000 student-athletes across 180 schools—69 of which have NCAA varsity Esports teams. Since its inception in 2016, the organization has given out $16 million in scholarships to existing and prospective young Esports athletes.

Higher education institutions have been building the necessary infrastructure for competition—from small-scale intramural club play to national Esports tournaments involving hundreds of individual teams and large, in-person audiences.

Creating the Ideal Esports Environment

"What do I need to make this happen?"

"How do I even start to build out an Esports facility?"

These are questions Jared Darensbourg, Panasonic’s senior sales manager, often hears when working with schools to outfit their campuses with contest-ready Esports infrastructure. He explained in its most basic form that Esports requires a gaming console setup, specialized seating, a large-format display, and a microphone so everyone in the room can experience the competition in real time.

But for schools that also have a sizable remote audience, the ability to livestream is crucial for success. Having multiple professional pan-tilt-zoom (PTZ) cameras allows the user to capture content from the first-person gamer perspective, as well as from an audience perspective. “The audience member should be able to see everything that's going on throughout that event stream, from every angle,” Darensbourg said.

“Remote production completes the ecosystem—pushing out to Twitch, YouTube, Facebook, or wherever this is being captured,” Darensbourg said. “For a large-scale operation, we would use our new KAIROS switcher/mainframe/server, which is a new cutting-edge IT/IP platform that supports independent output channels [e.g., 20 3G outputs].”

Broadcasting to a loyal fan base is just one of many areas where the distinction between traditional college sports and Esports teams becomes blurred. “In traditional college sports, somebody is handling broadcast cameras for game day—the networking and switching,” Darensbourg explained. “These folks are now getting requested for Esports because for the full solution experience, you not only have the AV, but the back-end broadcast, as well as remote production. Getting out to the masses ultimately brings visibility to the college.”

Once the physical infrastructure is in place, extremely high bandwidth and network capability are required to stream on Twitch to account for the hundreds—or potentially hundreds of thousands—of people tuning in simultaneously. Broadcast resolution on Twitch is possible at 1080p, though streaming is more reliable at 720p.

Leveling Up the Display Experience

Whereas basketball arenas and football stadiums will likely opt for an LED display to communicate with attendees, for Esports venues, projection can be an equally immersive, yet cost-effective alternative—particularly for cash-strapped colleges and universities.

“Projection technology plays a crucial role in collegiate Esports,” Darensbourg said. “You can achieve extremely vibrant resolution and clarity. You can also get a much wider image size with just one projector, and the total cost of ownership over time is going to be significantly less. Nine times out of 10, higher education will go with projection over LED.”

 In addition to budget considerations, projection offers the advantage of versatility for smaller, multipurpose gaming spaces such as classrooms and computer labs.

Bringing the Live Audience Back

While the COVID-19 pandemic sidelined many in-person college sporting events, the downtime and empty rooms provided a unique opportunity for some colleges and universities to begin the design and building process for Esports facilities.

Darensbourg projects build-out will only increase as pandemic restrictions are lifted. “People want to get back into in-person tournaments, so we’re going to see a lot more new venues pop up—especially as more schools are figuring out how to integrate Esports technology and recruit students to participate,” he said.

Inspiring the Next Generation of Esports Stars

The skills students gain through participation in Esports, including mental fitness, reaction time, fine-motor skills, problem-solving, and teamwork, serve them in their academic pursuits and, ultimately, in their careers. In fact, a 2018 study of League of Legends gamers showed that 62 percent of their gaming community pursued a STEM undergraduate degree.

Through partnerships with secondary schools and community-based organizations, Panasonic demonstrates its commitment to STEM education by exposing students to Esports—with the ultimate goal of helping every student discover their passion and a pathway to higher education.

The What: Maxhub has introduced the UC P10 HD 1080p PTZ camera with 12x optical zoom, designed for mid- to large-sized conference rooms. The UC P10 combines 1080p image quality with 12x optical zoom for high engagement for online meetings. This wide-angle camera with PTZ control provides clear collaboration and the unit’s HD 1080p images bring depth to remote interactions, all while intelligent color optimization ensures a high level of detail.

[The Integration Guide to Conferencing & Collaboration]

The What Else: The UC P10 delivers HD 1080p clarity at any distance in any environment, thanks to its Panasonic CMOS image sensor. The camera’s WDR (Wide Dynamic Range), combined with Maxhub's 2D and 3D DNR (Digital Noise Reduction), enables the UC P10 to deliver clear image quality, even in the most challenging situations.

The UC P10’s wide-angle PTZ performance combines a 72.5-degree HFoV (Horizontal Field of View) with a ±30 degree tilt capability and ±170 degree wide angle pan capability for full room visibility. Equally notable, the UC P10 offers 255 presets to make switching between whiteboards and speakers a quick and effortless task. And with whisper-quiet motor functionality, the UC P10 camera won't distract meeting attendees from the important points.

The Bottom Line: With the camera’s support for the RS-232 protocol, the UC P10 provides flexible interoperability with a wide range of collaboration tools so presenters can use the products/presentation applications with which they are most comfortable.

Winner of three gold medals in swimming at the 1984 Olympics, Rowdy Gaines has since made a name for himself as a major TV network swimming commentator and a coveted public speaker, two careers that changed dramatically in 2020 when COVID struck.

After nearly a year spent participating in virtual events and sports coverage through a basic laptop webcam, Gaines recently upgraded his gear to professional-grade ClearOne Aura cameras and a speakerphone that has completely changed his presentations and capabilities.

Related: The Technology Manager's Guide to Videoconferencing and Streaming

“Since the pandemic hit, I’ve done hundreds of video calls and speeches, including for major corporations or Olympic sponsors,” Gaines said. “It took a while to realize that the laptop camera and microphone I was using were pitiful, and the low-quality picture and sound detracted from the audience experience. Upgrading to ClearOne Aura with multiple cameras and a pro-level speakerphone has given my calls 4K video quality and perfect audio clarity, but the powerful features like auto framing may be an even bigger deal, long-term."

With a total of three cameras, Gaines can now offer broadcasters multiple angles while working from home, in addition to utilizing special features such as AI-based automatic framing on the UNITE 50 4K AF that moves and zooms the camera to best capture everyone in a room. All three cameras also offer remote-controlled pan, tilt, and zoom, with the UNITE 50 4K ePTZ offering video up to 4K and up to 3x digital zoom, and the UNITE 200 providing 1080p quality with a 12x optical zoom.

“I work about 25 sporting events a year, and as remote collaboration for broadcast continues to evolve, it’s almost magical to have equipment that I know puts my best face forward and presents an image that’s up to the quality of professional TV production,” Gaines said. “It’s definitely an investment for the future, and anyone who uses basic gear for videoconferencing, whether it’s for church presentations, work meetings or on TV, should be looking at upgrading their collaboration equipment with ClearOne.”

The core of Gaines’ new collaboration gear is the ClearOne Aura Versa 50 package, which combines a UNITE 50 ePTZ camera with a CHAT 150 speakerphone and a Versa USB Hub. The camera offers a 4K, 120-degree ultra-wide view lens with a 3x digital zoom, while the speakerphone delivers HDConference audio and plug-and-play simplicity with the Veras USB Hub. Adding the additional UNITE 50 4K AF and UNITE 200 PTZ cameras gives Gaines greater flexibility and presentation options that can help set him apart as a speaker and presenter in the future.

The What: Lumens Digital Optics has unveiled the VC-BC301P 4K IP POV camera, which delivers 4K 60 fps imagery and features IP connectivity. 

[The Integration Guide to Streaming]

The What Else: The VC-BC301P 4K IP POV camera delivers a low-latency 4K 60 fps image with its 1/1.8-inch Sony high sensitive sensor. The camera is capable of capturing a 102° viewing angle. 

It supports Ethernet, HDMI, and USB 3.0 video output that brings simple installation and operational flexibility. The camera is equipped with an ePTZ function via VC-IR01 remote control that easily controls the camera including pan, tilt, zoom, and other settings. The built-in tally light gives a director or a presenter visual confirmation that the camera is in operation.

The Bottom Line: The VC-BC301P 4K IP POV camera supports the Real Time Streaming Protocol (RTSP), Real Time Messaging Protocol (RTMP/RTMPS), and Secure Reliable Transport (SRT), enhancing live streaming video production in 4K clarity. It is applicable for remote communication and video content production in a wide range of markets such as e-sports, live broadcasting, corporate, house of worship, and more.

The What: Vaddio has begun shipping the RoboFLIP 30 HDBT, a unique “flipping” recessed ceiling camera that rotates into its enclosure when in standby mode, allowing room occupants full assurance that video feeds are not active.

The What Else: The RoboFLIP offers 1080p60 resolution through its Exmor R CMOS sensor and captures video from greater distances with 30x optical zoom. The HDBT output of the camera allows for flexible installation options. Power with a PoE++ network switch or mid-span power injector for an IP streaming configuration, or connect to an HDBT video switch or OneLINK extension system for a variety of video outputs. Depending on the OneLINK system you choose, you can have options such as HD-SDI, HDMI, USB, and IP streaming.

Related: The Technology Manager's Guide to Videoconferencing and Streaming

The camera comes with a presenter-friendly IR remote control, plus Telnet and Serial RS-232 for connection to an external third-party controller. RoboFLIP is also compatible with Vaddio’s recently released Device Controller, for touchpanel control of the cameras’ pan, tilt, zoom, presets, and more. Within its modern web-based user interface, integrators can adjust 16 stored PTZ presets, color, white balance and focus, access system diagnostic logs, streaming settings, and more.

The RoboFLIP camera is designed to be simple and straightforward to install. The camera has only one connection point, a HDBT port, that provides PoE++ power, video, control, and network. Clean lines and minimalistic design provide another great architectural videoconferencing solution for interior designers.

The Bottom Line: The RoboFLIP 30 HDBT is a PTZ camera solution designed for both security and design-conscious customers, and is well suited for use in corporate boardrooms, law offices, courtrooms, medical institutions, or any application where it’s critical to clearly know the camera’s active status.

The What: PTZOptics has released the PT-SuperJoy-G1 Joystick Controller, a comprehensive solution supporting serial and network-based camera control.

The What Else: The SuperJoy puts sophisticated multicamera production control at the fingertips of users of any ability level. Users will have fully featured control over any PTZOptics or HuddleCamHD camera, as well as control of Sony, Birddog, Newtek, and other PTZ cameras for select settings.

[The Integration Guide to Streaming]

The SuperJoy can be programmed with up to 255 PTZ camera presets, including 9 “quick presets”. Users can also create up to four camera control groups, allowing them to easily change scenes. The SuperJoy’s four customizable buttons can be programmed to trigger “super presets” that reach beyond the camera, sending custom commands via HTTP, UART, TCP, or UDP to network-based equipment including lights, speakers, and displays. Practically any device that can be controlled over IP can be triggered by the SuperJoy.

Using incremental buttons, the operator can adjust pan, tilt, zoom, and preset speed. The SuperJoy also has knobs to make minute adjustments to zoom, focus, iris/shutter settings, and red and blue gain. This power to fine tune is balanced by the ability to set guardrails on what controls are available.

The Bottom Line: Now available to order for $989 MSRP, the SuperJoy is designed to address a wide range of applications, production sizes, and skill sets. With its versatile presets and fine-tuning capabilities, this solution is designed to bring even the most complex multicamera production under control. The SuperJoy includes a 2-year limited warranty and is available now for pre-order.

When setting up rooms or venues for video, integrators want to avoid having to budget for a full-time camera operator if at all possible. That’s one of the reasons remote video capabilities are so attractive. 

With pandemic safety protocols forcing many industries to turn to remote video options, pan/tilt/zoom (PTZ) cameras may offer an ideal solution for those looking for better video quality than your everyday webcam. From conference rooms to theaters, these little dome-like cameras can make it look like you have a full production crew on call.

When it comes to engaging a remote audience, production value matters. “Video production expertise, however, is in short supply,” said Paul Richards, director of business development at PTZOptics. “The pandemic has forced many organizations to massively scale live streaming or virtual event operations, or start from scratch, without increasing staff. Adopting and integrating new technology, along with the accompanying staff upskilling required, can be a daunting prospect.”

Scroll through the gallery below to see the latest PTZ cameras for AV professionals.

“Simply put, you need the right tool based on the job,” said Paul Cords, director of product management and sales at Vaddio. “Fixed cameras, while useful and common in personal settings, can be limiting. PTZ cameras support both multipurpose and multiuser needs in modern conferencing spaces by offering the benefits of freedom of movement and attention-getting visual interest. If a participant steps away from the table and up to the whiteboard, or if a user needs to zoom in on a particular item or area, a PTZ camera (especially with presets) allows that natural collaboration.”

PTZ at Work and School

PTZ cameras are ideal for distance learning, and for use within a network of conference and meeting rooms. With the pandemic forcing many companies and schools to turn to live streaming for meetings, events, and classes to keep attendees safe, PTZ cameras offer a cost-effective and efficient way for them to achieve that workflow. PTZ cameras offer organizations of any size the ability to live stream events through the use of pre-programmed shots and presets to capture video, alleviating the need to hire an on-site video technician. Another benefit: PTZ cameras’ wide-angle lenses allow users to capture the entirety of a large room all at once. 

“Equipping classrooms and meeting spaces with advanced automated camera solutions today will enable flexible work and learning environments into the future. Corporations and schools that adopt this technology will be the ones to attract students and workers,” said Rony Sebok, vice president of technology at 1 Beyond.

Eddy Boyette, eastern zone manager at Lumens Integration, agreed. “In both the corporate and education sectors, PTZ camera orders have increased dramatically. The key emphasis when selecting our products is the superior image quality and the extremely low latency,” he said. “Education institutions are working on hybrid classrooms and students need to be able to see the material clearly when learning from home. Businesses are hosting virtual events, and high-resolution IP cameras allow the best video experience for the viewers. It’s amazing to see where we first started and know that our cameras are contributing a visual experience for everyone.”

[The Technology Manager's Guide to Videoconferencing and Streaming]

Live Streaming in Houses of Worship

With in-person gatherings prohibited, houses of worship have turned to live streaming their services, and PTZs often play a big role in delivering the worship message to congregants celebrating remotely. 

“A recent report shows that 90 percent of churches without a live streaming system are looking to put something into place within the next couple of months,” said PTZOptics’ Richards. “Churches are large spaces and integrators should be able to help their customers choose the appropriate optical zoom. Integrators should be thinking about camera operators, or more importantly, the ability to centralize camera controls in a single location.” The company offers an ebook on this topic, Helping Your Church Live Stream, available for free at ptzoptics.com/book.

[The Integration Guide to Houses of Worship]

Pre-pandemic, many houses of worship were already looking at ways to augment the in-person experience and increase online viewership, according to Hamid James, product manager for PTZ Camera Systems at Panasonic. The COVID crisis simply sped up the implementation of remote production solutions that were already in the planning stages. 

“Professional PTZ cameras with our streaming solutions are enabling churches to expand their outreach by offering more streamed content on their website and social media platforms,” he added. “Since PTZs are incredibly versatile, churches are leveraging these systems to capture more dynamic content and immerse and inspire their congregations like never before.”

The Future of PTZs

By their nature, PTZ cameras help people continue normal business operations remotely—whether it’s for a corporate meeting, a church service, a university class, or even a live streamed concert. Though PTZ cameras and other remote production technologies have been incredibly helpful during our current health crisis, their importance won’t be diminished when the pandemic ends. 

“We think the new normal—even after the pandemic has passed—will be smaller crews indoors and remotely controlled technology for remote production taking a bigger role in broadcast and video production,” said Michael Cuomo, vice president at Telemetrics. “The current health scare has forced all of us to rethink how production is accomplished and find new ways to produce content safely that still looks good to viewers at home.” 

The What: TEKVOX has announced that its cameras are now compatible with the HTML5 standard, enabling camera control via web portals.

The What Else: TEKVOX’s cameras are part of the company’s Drop-In A/V solutions for videoconferencing and distance learning; cameras may also be purchased separately for video capture in classrooms and conference rooms. Most available cameras support resolutions up to 1080p; however, TEKVOX has recently added 4K cameras for customers who demand the highest standard in video quality. In addition, TEKVOX offers two new auto-tracking cameras to capture speakers dynamically: the Wunderbar All-in-One Conferencing Bar—featuring a built-in microphone and speaker—and the stand-alone HD/1080p Auto-Tracking Camera, with smooth 10x optical zoom.

Related: The Technology Manager's Guide to Videoconferencing and Streaming

TEKVOX’s PTZ cameras have different levels of zoom: from 5x optical zoom—for use in small spaces requiring a wide field of view—up to 20x zoom for larger lecture halls. They feature smooth and precise movement for pan, tilt, and zoom operations.

All the cameras offered by TEKVOX are available with HDMI or HDBaseT outputs. In addition to TCP/IP (web-based) control, they are controllable via RS-232, RS-422/485, or the included IR remotes.

“The new auto-tracking and 4K cameras bolster our full range of professional-quality PTZ cameras,” said TEKVOX CEO Jim Reinhart. “By offering HTML5 compatibility, all TEKVOX cameras are now fully qualified for corporate and educational applications in a post-Flash world.”

The Bottom Line: With Adobe ceasing to distribute and update Flash Player after December 31, 2020, HTML5 is recognized as a viable alternative for Flash content, and major browsers have integrated the open standard. TEKVOX has recognized this industry shift by providing HTML5 compatibility for control of its cameras.

When New World Symphony, a unique post-graduate orchestral academy under the artistic direction of 11-time Grammy award-winning conductor and co-founder Michael Tilson Thomas, was preparing for its first international livestreamed WALLCAST concert, the academy’s video production team realized that in order to capture more dynamic point-of-view (POV) video, their infrastructure needed an upgrade to compliment the Performance Hall’s high-caliber video production system.

Although New World Symphony’s Performance Hall was already equipped with AV technology, the professional POV “lipstick” cameras NWS experimented with lacked modern features, flexibility, and most importantly, 4K video quality and color shading. As a result, the camera operators’ ability to broadcast dynamic 4K video was restricted. 

Related: Panasonic PTZ Cameras Help UK Cathedral Live Stream Mass

“The challenge we faced was twofold, as we needed to find a solution to replace our existing lipstick point-of-view cameras with remote control capabilities that integrated smoothly into our Telemetrics environment,” said Clyde Scott, director of video production and resident projection designer at New World Symphony.

Seeking flexible solutions, New World Symphony added seven Panasonic robotic AW-UE150 4K60 PTZ cameras and an AW-RP150 touchscreen remote camera controller into their infrastructure. The AW-UE150’s video quality, wide 75.1-degree viewing angle, and quiet pan and tilt performance made the camera well suited to meet the academy’s goals and objectives. Furthermore, the AW-RP150’s one-hand operation joystick and large touchpanel LCD screen for monitoring and menu settings complimented the Symphony’s production infrastructure.

“For the longest time, we were seeking quiet, robotic cameras that could mirror what was being captured on our 4K studio and broadcast cameras,” Scott said. “In the case of our first international webcast, we needed high-quality, small robotic cameras to showcase the different musical elements involved in Thomas’ composition without distracting or disturbing the musicians or our in-house audience.”

New World Symphony’s’ Performance Hall can be characterized as nothing short of magical. Numerous luminaries from John Williams to Katie Perry have carried out captivating performances in the hall, and over the years, the academy has been eager to broadcast and share those intimate experiences with its audiences.

After deploying Panasonic’s UE150 PTZ cameras, New World Symphony enhanced its overall video production capabilities for its beloved Performance Hall, enabling its video engineers to fully embrace a true 4K broadcast environment. In addition to seamlessly capturing the performance of Thomas’ piece in 4K, NWS’ updated production capabilities will foster unique musical performances and experiences for its guests—regardless of their location—now and in the future.

St. Patrick Academy in Providence, RI is a small Catholic high school serving inner-city urban youth. Like most schools, classes at St. Patrick went online from mid-March through June, with students attending via Zoom. St. Patrick had limited classroom technology at the time, and while discussing the school’s fall reopening—which would consist of a mix of in-school, at-home (remote), and hybrid attendance models—the planning committee took a closer look at AV. They soon developed a plan to support live video feeds in four classrooms and offer a more authentic learning experience to remote students. 

With a modest budget, the planning committee streamlined their AV options and focused on the most pertinent technologies: PTZ cameras to visualize the classroom environment; and USB technologies to extend video, and control signals without excessive wiring.

Related: The Technology Manager's Guide to Distance Learning and Streaming

“We really wanted cameras that were rotatable, rather than having a static camera pointed at the board,” said Mark Luzzi, IT director at St. Patrick. “It was critical to have that PTZ capability so that we could aim them anywhere we want, and really capture that feeling of being part of the classroom.” 

The school soon purchased Atlona HDVS-CAM Series PTZ cameras for six classrooms, along with extender kits for wireless HDMI and USB transport to classroom displays. The school also purchased Jabra microphones to capture live lecture audio so students can clearly hear the lessons and student-teacher interaction inside the classroom as it happens.

Engaging Experience

The Atlona cameras are mounted at the back of the classrooms, enabling the widest angle possible. The planning committee selected the AT-HDVS-CAM-HDMI model, which features an HDMI and USB output. The AT-OME-EX-KIT extender kits interact with both outputs for wireless signal transport. 

The cameras can be reconfigured in each classroom depending on what the teacher’s needs are for the day. “They can switch the presets to change the camera to point at the desk, at the board, at a particular student, at a podium, or to capture a presentation they are delivering that day,” Luzzi said. “This makes the experience more engaging for the students at home, because they can align the work that they are doing in class with how the teacher and classmates interact while in session.”

Luzzi and his colleague, dean of students and director of athletics Charles Toste, performed the installation of the new systems. All classrooms were equipped with an AT-HDVS-CAM-HDMI camera, a Jabra microphone, and access to the network switch. 

“The ports are directly next to the cameras in each classroom, and then we have all the cabling running from the cameras and receiver to the transmitter on each teacher’s desk,” Luzzi said. “We also hardwired a printer in each classroom to a port that is shared with the camera.” Other connections include existing ceiling-mounted projectors in each classroom, along with smartboards in the larger classrooms.

Bruce Daigle, principal at St. Patrick’s, recounted the excitement that followed the procurement and installation. The school held two weeks of training sessions so that the teachers would be familiar with the technology when school began. 

“Once the installation was complete, we went straight into learning how to use the systems properly,” he said. “Students also received training so that they understood how to use their laptops in conjunction with the camera systems. What we wanted to ensure was that the technology was ready for use, and that everyone was prepared to use it.” 

In addition to the classroom integration, Luzzi and Toste equipped two mobile carts for use in spaces currently not set up for distance learning. Toste uses them during gym class to remote students engaged with physical fitness. “There’s still a way for them to participate and engage even if they’re not doing traditional sports activities,” Luzzi said. “They can still exercise and follow along, and it allows for more interactivity between the teacher and those students.” 

Strong Reinforcements

Luzzi said that it was necessary to double the school’s bandwidth due to the increased amount of video traffic on the network, leading to the purchase of a new switch and controller. 

“We usually have four of the six cameras active at one time, and at times we have five cameras active,” he said. “We needed to block out other devices that normally connect to the network to prepare for that traffic—things like student cell phones, or devices that belong to the parishioners that come into the building.” 

Students both onsite and off connect via school-supplied Chromebooks, with teachers using a combination of Chromebook, Dell, Lenovo, and Mac laptops. The AV traffic runs on the school’s main network, with several devices (such as printers) connected via VLAN.

All four classrooms are outfitted with 100-foot Cat-6 cables, in addition to high-speed HDMI cabling. “The cameras support a higher resolution than we previously anticipated having access to, and although we’re not running at full 1080p, we now have the appropriate cabling,” Luzzi said. The cameras currently run at 720p.

One D-Link controller with four separate extensions sits on each floor of the two-story building, plus a “parent” NETGEAR controller—essentially, a controller for the controller. There are also four 32-port D-Link hubs per floor capable of handling up to 1Gb.

Luzzi noted that the quality of the distance learning experience delivered by St. Patrick’s today far exceeds what the school was capable of during the spring lockdown. 

“The kids at home can actually read the board as the teacher posts content, and PowerPoints can be viewed through the share feature on a Google Meet or Zoom call,” he said. “The camera can be pointed at the board, and it’s identical, visually. The quality is very rich in terms of capturing even the smallest of details.”

Clear Views

To streamline the user experience in the classroom, Luzzi relied on the preset functionality that is integrated into the AT-HDVS-CAM-HDMI cameras. “The presets were designed to be uniform in each classroom so that if a teacher is moving between classrooms, the exact same settings can be applied,” Luzzi said. 

These presets are configured to provide shots of the whiteboard or smartboard, the teacher’s desk, a wide angle of the entire classroom, or shots of secondary display boards and projections. “Additionally, they can use the directional arrows on their remote control to pan and tilt the camera. That allows them to focus in on something significant as needed.”

And, because the positioning of each camera enables a 250-to-280 degree viewing angle—and their pan/tilt feature gives teachers the option of focusing in on individual students, for example—Luzzi believes that remote students feel more connected to what’s taking place in the classroom itself. 

“For students at home, it’s nice to see those different angles depending on what the teacher is doing—it feels like you’re in the classroom without physically being there,” he said. “This allows for the teacher to show the students much more than they previously could.”

The cameras connect to the receivers via USB, and the transmitters (located on the teachers’ desks) are equipped with a USB cable for laptop connection. In addition to HDMI and USB, the AT-OME-EX-KIT extender kits carry Ethernet, power and control. 

The USB-enabled Jabra speaker/microphones deliver what Luzzi describes as a more authentic audio experience for students participating remotely. 

“We’re using the Jabras because it allows the students at home to hear the students in the classroom,” he said. Placed on the teacher’s desk, the Jabra units pick up audio all the way to the back of the classroom.

Daigle said that the St. Patrick Academy faculty reports that the cameras have changed the dynamic of remote learning. 

“The camera systems give them previously unseen flexibility in the classroom, and we hear consistent praise about how the remote-control functionality makes it easy to adjust camera angles in ways that are meaningful to each lesson,” Daigle said. “And the kids like this a lot better than Zoom because they can see and hear everything that’s going on in the classroom. It has made it much easier for them to engage in the learning process.”

The What: HuddleCamHD has announced two new electronic PTZ webcams: The HuddleCamHD Pro (USB 3.0), certified by Zoom Video Communications, and the Pro IP (4K NDI). 

The What Else: Featuring a large UHD CMOS sensor, the HuddleCamHD Pro and Pro IP take videoconferencing and live streaming projects to the next level with high resolution and detail. Users can pan, tilt, zoom, and capture 4K video with a wide 108-degree field of view and lossless digital zoom. Users can also discreetly zoom-in using the included IR remote. Designed for meeting room environments, the auto-framing feature uses the intelligent 4K sensor to frame subjects in view. HuddleCamHD Pro and Pro IP also feature a dual-array microphone, making it a true all-in-one webcam solution.

Related: The Technology Manager's Guide to Conference Rooms

Built into the HuddleCamHD Pro and Pro IP is a monitor clamp that can attach to any LCD or laptop display, and each camera can be wall-mounted. Both models also include an industry-standard quarter-twenty connection to attach the camera to any tripod or camera mount. A plug-and-play solution, users plug in the HuddleCamHD Pro USB 3.0 connector to any Mac, PC, or Linux computer, follow the instructions for one-time setup, and start recording or streaming with no additional software required. When in use, an LED light indicates that the video stream is being accessed by an application on your computer. 

More experienced users can dive into the HuddleCamHD Pro’s advanced video features including NDI virtual input, which allows camera operators to select the video feed from any camera located on a network. HuddleCamHD Pro works with video production software including OBS, vMix, xSplit, Livestream Studio, Wirecast, and Ecamm Live.

With Zoom certification, the HuddleCamHD Pro allows camera users within a Zoom videoconference to request or provide remote camera control for other meeting attendees. This model also supports electronic PTZ camera controls for Zoom Rooms.

“With today’s virtual work, learn, and entertain movements, having the right AV production equipment plays a major role in our ability to deliver engaging content and online experiences,” said Paul Richards, director of business development for HuddleCamHD. “Whether you’re running a Zoom meeting, hosting a YouTube or Facebook Live show, or creating an instructional video, the HuddleCamHD Pro is the ideal all-in-one audio and video hardware solution. There is no better entry-point electronic PTZ webcam on the market, period.”

The Bottom Line: Both models come with a handheld IR remote to control PTZ functions, and feature 4K video, a dual-microphone array, and can clamp to a monitor or attach to a tripod for enhanced videoconferencing and livestreaming.

Now available for order, the HuddleCamHD Pro is $329 US MSRP and the HuddleCamHD Pro IP is $549 US MSRP. 

Liverpool Metropolitan Cathedral has installed Panasonic’s PTZ camera system to live stream Sunday Mass to its audience of 5,000 per week. With the coronavirus pandemic and continued social distancing restricting worshippers attending mass, Panasonic AW-HN40 PTZ cameras with optical zoom capability and NDI/HX output have been installed to provide worshippers with an innovative live streaming solution.

Panasonic partner Adlib, an audiovisual solutions company with a longstanding relationship with the cathedral, initially provided a temporary solution to address the aftermath of the lockdown but after a successful pilot recommended Panasonic AW-HN40 PTZ cameras to be permanently installed as a discreet, professional-quality system. The optical zoom capability of the cameras was particularly important for the installation. A single Panasonic PTZ camera has the flexibility to be used for a wide shot that shows off the entire cathedral, or an extreme close up of the priest or readers, using a selection of pre-set camera movements. The second camera is similarly versatile, being used for wide shots of the choir, close-ups of the organist, and a variety of shots looking into the Chapel of the Blessed Sacrament.

Related: The Technology Manager's Guide to Distance Learning and Streaming

“Initially, there was some concern that the cameras would be too conspicuous but a demo quickly showed that the cameras were very discreet and their availability in both white and black to suit different parts of the cathedral made them blend in even better,” said Tim Robinson, Adlib installation project manager. “Ultimately, the dean and his staff were so taken with the shots we could get from a central position, they asked that the camera be installed in an ideal location that we never would have thought possible.”

Panasonic PTZ cameras provided the correct combination of cost-efficiency and for the cathedral’s needs and the new system has been so successful that the cathedral now plans to live stream more services to its socially distanced congregation.

The What: Panasonic's AW-UE100 Pan/Tilt/Zoom (PTZ) camera is now available to address the increasing demand to create streamlined productions that deliver high quality viewing experiences. 

The What Else: Panasonic claims the AW-UE100 is the "industry’s first PTZ camera to support 4K/60p for high-bandwidth NDI and Secure Reliable Transport (SRT)", which enables users to capture and stream high quality images and video over public internet securely and in real-time. 

Addressing the need for increased flexibility, the new AW-UE100 PTZ camera features an all new Direct Drive motor for much quieter and smoother movement with heightened response time to capture quality live remote and studio production in broadcast, staging, corporate, sports, higher education, and house of worship applications.

To create immersive and engaging virtual broadcasts without the high costs associated with traditional cameras on the market, Panasonic is developing a plug-in for use with the AW-UE100 that integrates with the Unreal 3D Engine due to the FreeD positioning data outputted by the camera, to create an immersive VR or AR experiences.

The Bottom Line: The AW-UE100 offers a range of features to streamline production capabilities for users no matter what their professional video experience is or the shooting location and situation. To capture events of all sizes, the camera offers quality shooting capabilities, streaming workflows and high-magnification zoom and wide-angle shooting to ensure bright, clear visuals for immersive experiences of all kinds. 

The AW-UE100 has a suggested list price of $8,350. 

Pan-tilt-zoom (PTZ) HD cameras offer seemingly endless possibilities in video reinforcement and live streaming applications. A few notable advantages include small size, a variety of mounting positions, IP video interface, third-party controllers, open-source control software, and easy configuration and operation by non-professionals.

There was a time when high-quality video cameras were very large, very expensive, and almost impossible for non-professionals to operate. In those days, video reinforcement, let alone streaming on the Internet, was out of reach for the small- to moderate-sized organization, for whom the equipment and the trained staff were just out of reach. Fortunately, those days are past, thanks to the appearance of PTZ high definition cameras.

[The PTZ Goes Remote]

They are small enough to hold in your hand, and they can be mounted in a variety of positions: on a wall or a ceiling, on a pole, or even on a pulpit. As the name implies, PTZ cameras are complete systems that include the electro-mechanical devices that facilitate remote panning, tilting, and zooming. 

PTZ cameras can be controlled using a joystick controller or simply a laptop computer: a Mac, a PC, a Linux box, or even a Raspberry Pi, via gigabit Ethernet or a serial digital control interface such as RS-232C or RS-422. Several PTZ cameras can be daisy-chained on the same interface cable, obviating the requirement for a home run to each camera. 

[Streaming in Houses of Worship]

Control and video backhaul may be accomplished over Ethernet using Network Device Interface (NDI)i, a free, open source, lightly compressed, bidirectional interface that may be downloaded from the internet for any commonly-used operating system. Such an interface can simultaneously backhaul multiple frame-accurate HD video signals, along with controlling the cameras with which they are associated. In addition, cameras may be powered over Ethernet using a Power over Ethernet+ (PoE+) switch, which facilitates a single-cable interface to the camera. PoE+ can supply up to 25.5 watts of DC power on CAT-5 cable.

For those who prefer a multi-cable approach, many PTZ cameras also include High Definition Serial Digital Interface (HD-SDI) and High Definition Multimedia Interface (HDMI) video ports as well as RS-232C/RS-422 serial digital control ports.

[Product Review: Jabra PanaCast]

For those who prefer a multi-cable approach, many PTZ cameras also include High Definition Serial Digital Interface (HD-SDI) and High Definition Multimedia Interface (HDMI) video ports as well as RS-232C/RS-422 serial digital control ports.

PTZ cameras and associated peripherals have brought a whole new panoply of opportunities for video reinforcement and online streaming, combining high quality, high definition video with IP control and backhaul, all at a reasonable price. Add in the fact that these systems may be configured and operated by the tech-savvy amateur, and it’s hard to go wrong. Your organization can have highly professional-looking high definition video reinforcement and streaming affordably, without the requirement to hire a professional video staff. PTZ cameras and their ancillary equipment and interfaces represent a new day in video reinforcement and streaming for the moderate-sized budget.

The What: In response to the current global health crisis, Key Digital has created a method for healthcare providers to reduce exposure time by decreasing the time physically spent in each patient’s room. The company is proud to introduce the new Key Digital Medical Monitoring System (KDM Monitoring System) for the present and ongoing healthcare concerns and the answer to future in-patient telehealth needs.

The What Else: The Key Digital Medical Monitoring System is a local network AV solution for effective and immediate telecommunication between patients and nurses in a hospital, hospice, or in-patient facility. In the patient room, the system features a 1080p PTZ camera at each patient bed, professional USB speaker and mic combo, and communication link with the nurse’s station initiated by patient via emergency button. The nurse’s station features a dual-monitor system with four- or 16-patient view, and full two-way voice link initiated by the nurse using Key Digital Management Software, a pre-programmed PC software user interface. Any PC at the nurse’s viewing station can control video, camera, audio, and voice.

Related: beyerdynamic's UNITE Helps Nurses Treating COVID-19 Patients 

After a brief needs-analysis collection, Key Digital will create a turn-key solution to meet the needs of each installation. Systems outside of four and 16 patient are also possible. The system is completely preconfigured and verified by Key Digital’s engineers before shipping to minimize the amount of installation time necessary in the in-patient environment.

“Key Digital has always operated as a company seeking to solve AV needs with our inventive engineers and extensive product solutions, but this pandemic hits us not just as a technology company, but as individuals with loved ones at risk,” said Masha Lakhter, COO of Key Digital. “In our tight-knit office alone, we all bear the burden of worrying about our friends and family both in need of care and facilitating that care courageously in spite of the known risks. This KDM Monitoring System project and our solution is the result of the respective parents, grandparents, children, and relatives of at-risk persons that make up Key Digital coming together to brainstorm ways to contribute positively in such an uncertain and frightening time. We were able to expedite the release of our turnkey solution to meet the needs of the medical community now when it’s needed most. Adopting Key Digital’s Medical Monitoring System now will immediately help reduce the risk of unnecessary exposure between patients and healthcare staff, and we are proud of our positive contribution in this unsettling climate.”

The Bottom Line: The Medical Monitoring System’s development was guided by a registered nurse on Key Digital’s sales team. In addition to the company’s exhaustive research and analysis for this system, this individual’s insights added to the understanding of the intricacies of the in-patient medical field and the identification of AV needs through the eyes of a seasoned AV professional.

As the COVID-19 pandemic spreads, streets and workplaces have emptied around the world. Many local or national governments have ordered that all citizens sequester in their homes, except for those whose jobs are essential to battling the virus or keeping the country running, if at a minimal capacity. With millions working from home or otherwise physically distant from their teams, integrators have a unique opportunity to help businesses, governmental institutions, educational facilities, health care providers, and houses of worship implement continuity plans.

In the United States, the Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency (CISA) has been monitoring the coronavirus crisis, issuing guidance and working with critical infrastructure partners to prepare for, respond to, and mitigate effects of the virus. Functioning critical infrastructure is imperative during the response to the COVID-19 emergency (or any emergency) for both public health and safety as well as community well-being. CISA, in collaboration with federal agencies, state and local governments, and the private sector, has developed guidance that identifies certain critical infrastructure industries and outlines their special responsibilities in these times to continue operations.

The CISA list is lengthy. Pertinent to this discussion, however, the list includes “employees required in person to support Software-as-a-Service businesses that enable remote working, performance of business operations, distance learning, media services, and digital health offerings, or are required for technical support crucial for business continuity and connectivity.”

Integrators are being called on to set up isolated rooms for key personnel to conduct remote training and critical meetings, to help AV/IT managers service a dispersed workforce, and to provide AV as a Service. The PTZ (pan, tilt, zoom) camera can play a key role.

Scroll through the gallery below to see the latest PTZ cameras for pro AV.

Remote PTZ

Systems integrators looking to support customers in setting up remote workstations, remote instruction, and remote streaming studios from home should be thinking about how they can simplify the process. Consider that many end users will be setting up this type of AV and streaming equipment for the first time—or for the first time without a trained technician by their side.

“Suddenly we’re getting a high volume of calls from end users setting up professional equipment at home for the very first time,” said Tod Musgrave, director of cameras at Marshall Electronics. “We’ve had calls from users who are plugging in the HDMI output of a camera into the output of their PC and asking why it’s not working in a teleconference program. On many of these technical calls, we’re serving as part IT manager and part AV technician.”

One way that integrators can greatly simplify the installation process is to build custom kits for customers to get online quickly. “We recommend including color-coded inputs/outputs with corresponding connection cables and ID labels,” said Musgrave. “A simple diagram with easy-to-understand pictures and symbols can go a long way in removing the guesswork of the setup.” Think IKEA.

During these trying times, AV integrators are needed most to do what they do best. “Integrators can support their clients by showing them how to store PTZ presets, adjust color settings, and save streaming settings to make simple training videos look professional, even if presenters are not in ideal settings,” said Beth Peterson, marketing manager at Vaddio. “At Vaddio, we aim to make products that have built-in remote management and access so AV managers can help their users from afar.”

Vaddio’s RoboSHOT Elite Series, for example, features a web-based user interface that gives the user control of the camera via a web browser from anywhere in the world. It is available in a variety of models (including HDMI, HDBaseT, SDI, NDI, and USB) and can be paired with Vaddio OneLINK extensions for placement flexibility over 300 feet from the rack.

The Remote Conference Room

The power of unified communication platforms such as Google Hangouts, Microsoft Teams, and Zoom have improved the state of videoconferencing. Integrators were already using USB cameras with soft codec computers in the workplace, and now that much of the workforce is at home, there’s no looking back. “The new 4K HuddleCamHD ePTZ webcams take plug-and-videoconferencing to the next level,” said Paul Richards, HuddleCamHD business development, PTZOptics.

“The camera is 4K, which may not be important for videoconferencing, but when combined with ePTZ technology, things get quite interesting,” Richards said. With a 4K image sensor, the camera’s ePTZ functionality gives users the ability to electronically pan, tilt, and zoom within the 4K image space, outputting a 1080p or 720p video feed that’s focused on the speaker or other point of interest. “The camera also features auto-framing technology, which allows it to intelligently frame subjects using ePTZ. In this way, the plug-and-play USB webcam becomes an intelligent camera operator that is ready 24/7 to make meetings more productive and powerful,” Richards added.

Automated Training and Teaching Rooms

[The Technology Manager's Guide to Distance Learning and Streaming]

“HuddleCamHD is helping teachers in the classroom and at home produce high-quality video content for lectures,” said Richards. “In the classroom, many universities are using the HuddleCamHD SimplTrack2 to automate lecture capture.” SimplTrack2 is generally integrated into a lecture capture system such as Echo360 or Mediasite, which combines the auto-tracking camera video feed with the instructor’s presentation. “At home, many teachers are using the HuddleCamHD Webcam 120 or the new EPTZ 4K Webcam. Both are compatible with software such as Kaltura Lecture Capture,” he added.

Rony Sebok, vice president at 1 Beyond, noted that manufacturers have combined software and hardware technologies into integrated solutions that are both easier to deploy and easier to use. “The use of interactive videoconferencing and automated camera tracking solutions provides the benefit of full interactivity and the video quality of a ‘manned’ production crew without the expense or need for personnel,” she said.

Due in part to its auto-tracking features, 1 Beyond’s AutoTracker 3 has been installed in more than 150 colleges and universities across the country, including the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT), Brown, and Indiana University. The camera outputs high-quality 1080/30p video that can be integrated into popular recording and streaming platforms and videoconferencing codecs such as Panopto, Echo360, Mediasite, and Zoom.

The Future

Nobody can say with 100 percent certainty when life and business will return to “normal,” or if the new normal will even resemble the old normal, but we can say in all certainty that the new normal will be informed by technologies that helped bridge our physical separation during the coronavirus crisis.

The What: In response to the global pandemic of COVID-19, Key Digital is working to help build a sense of normalcy within the requirements of mandatory teleconferencing. To this end, the company has launched the KD-CAMUSB professional PTZ USB camera to help the world unify, communicate, and collaborate in this period of uncertainty and beyond.

Related: NewTek Ships Accessible UHD PTZ Camera

The What Else: KD-CAMUSB requires no additional software installation and is compatible with most computers using Windows, Mac, and Linux operating systems. Once plugged in as a USB source, the presenter immediately has control of the responsive camera with 10x optical zoom, 1080p resolution, fast and accurate auto-focus, the option to store and recall presets, and pan and tilt. 

Users may store and recall up to 255 presets, with up to 12 presets accessed via the IR remote control on home, privacy, and numeric buttons for quick viewing of the desired room perspectives and participants, while also adjusting to Home and Privacy settings within a single button press.

KD-CAMUSB features fast and accurate autofocus and video resolutions from 320x240p at 30fps up to 1920x1080p at 30fps and is adjustable via Windows camera viewer and conferencing software camera settings panels.

Key Digital’s KD-CAMUSB offers flexibility when integrating with professional control systems via two discreet control options. KD-CAMUSB's open API enables control from leading systems including Compass Control Pro, AMX, Crestron, RTI, Savant, URC, and more. KD-CAMUSB is also VISCA controllable for camera control consoles and supports addressing for multi-camera systems.

External microphones should be used as KD-CAMUSB does not feature a built-in mic.

“What sets the KD-CAMUSB apart is its simple and user-friendly single connectivity and our cost-effective price point,” said Masha Tsinberg Lakhter, COO of Key Digital. “By having our engineers focus on providing a robust connection via USB in lieu of also weighing it down with the option for LAN, HDMI, or other connections, the company is able to offer the product at an incredibly competitive price, and in the current landscape a USB connection is exactly what most presenters have to work with and sometimes the only connection source available. We’ve redefined and revamped the concept of what is necessary in a video presenter’s arsenal, and our end result is a professional camera that any end-user can easily plug in and use to instantly jump into presenting with zero setup time.”

The Bottom Line: Whether the goal is to preserve and sustain business productivity or to implement new teleconferencing avenues, the KD-CAMUSB camera solution offers a professional viewing platform for e-learning, virtual classrooms, worship, trainings, and performances. It is well suited for those using the camera from home using popular videoconference software such as Skype, GoToMeeting, Microsoft Teams, Zoom, RingCentral, Google Hangouts, or others.

The What: NewTek is now shipping the PTZUHD, a pan-tilt-zoom camera that transmits full 4K60 video directly to NDI-compatible receiving devices across a standard network. The NewTek PTZUHD camera allows content creators to capture and deliver UHD video with native support for resolutions up to 2160p60 using a 30X optical zoom lens and a high-quality Sony CMOS sensor. 

[NewTek Launches Next-Gen TriCaster Mini With UHD and Mobile Integration]

The What Else: The NewTek PTZUHD camera represents NDI|HX implementation. The result is reduced latency output at low bandwidth, which puts less strain on the network. NewTek PTZUHD is a broadcast-quality camera solution for NDI-powered video production workflows, and enables the future-proofing of broadcast and sports workflows. It can also enable professional audiovisual producers to deliver critical stories and content. 

“Right now, nothing is more important than the transmission of valuable information fast and effectively. With this 4K PTZ camera, one person with a TriCaster can produce an incredible live show,” said Dr. Andrew Cross, president of R&D for the Vizrt Group. "This has never been more relevant than today, when both cutting costs, keeping fewer people on a set and getting a story out to the internet is more important. PTZUHD is the first accessible broadcast quality PTZ camera that is ready for the future with IP that solves real problems and helps further our mission that matters more today than ever."

The Bottom Line: Requiring only a single Ethernet connection for setup, power, operation, and signal flow, digital media producers and content creators can explore new ways to evolve their productions into 4K. The camera pairs natively with the TriCaster Mini 4K and TriCaster TC1 for a configuration-free NDI experience.

The NewTek PTZUHD cameras are available now and are priced at $4,995 USMSRP. 

The What: ClearOne has announced the UNITE 200 PTZ, the top-of-the-line model in its Zoom-certified line professional conferencing cameras.

[ClearOne Launches COLLABORATE Versa Room CT]

The What Else: The UNITE 200 provides four flexible network connectivity options, supporting USB 2.0, USB 3.0, IP, and HDMI. With full 1080p60 resolution, PTZ functions, and 12x optical zoom with a 72.5-degree field of view and a ±170-degree horizontal range, the UNITE 200 is designed to meet the needs of diverse video camera applications.

The Bottom Line: The UNITE line professional-grade cameras is optimized for a wide range of applications and environments including professional-quality visual collaboration, UC applications, network streaming, and more.

The Zoom-Certified UNITE 200 PTZ is available for $1,849 US MSRP. 

The What: Panasonic has begun shipping the ultra-wide-angle lens AW-UE4 compact 4K pan/tilt/zoom camera. 

The What Else: Designed with a single-cable solution for video transmission, camera control, and power supply, the unit supports Power over Ethernet (PoE) and can be used as a USB camera powered from a computer. The AW-UE4 features operability through RTMP (Real-Time Messaging Protocol), compatibility for direct upload of video to livestreaming services such as YouTube Live and Facebook Live, and is able to meet the needs of other live production implementations.

The camera supports 3840x2160/30p 4K video output and a variety of other formats for use in a wide range of environments. Its ultra-wide-angle lens enables the transmission of wide-angle footage from even the smallest installation spaces. With the compact size and versatility of the AW-UE4 body design, it is an optimal remote camera for recording/streaming.

The AW-UE4 is equipped with a digital zoom for magnification up to four times to capture distant subjects clearly. Expanded images can also be manipulated for pan and tilt-like effects to capture images from a variety of angles.

The Bottom Line: With a 111-degree field of view and capable of video output through three interfaces (HDMI, LAN and USB), the AW-UE4 is well suited for large or small areas, from huddle spaces to lectures/meetings to e-sports production. Available in both black and white finishes, the AW-UE4 has a suggested list price of $1,200.

Trafalgar Releasing recently premiered S&M2, a celebration of the 20th anniversary of Metallica’s S&M (“Symphony and Metallica”) concerts and album recorded with the San Francisco Symphony. The broadcast will be seen in more than 3,000 theatres in more than 80 countries. 

The concert film was recorded live with the San Francisco Symphony at the city’s new-state-of-the-art Chase Center on September 6 and 8, with the production deploying Panasonic AW-UE150 4K pan/tilt/zoom cameras on stage for close-ups and specialty shots of the band and symphony musicians. The AW-UE150 produced 4K video and its 75.1-degree horizontal viewing angle allowed operators to capture the full shot. 

The broadcast will include several tracks from the original 1999 S&M album as well as symphonic versions of new songs issued since then. This theatrical release will give millions of international fans the chance to experience the show as a modern-day big-screen concert. The production format for the concerts was 2160/23.98p.

Reprising their roles as producer and director (of the original 1999 S&M concert film) are Dana Marshall and Wayne Isham. According to Isham, the iconic director of concert/music videos, “I was excited about the opportunity to integrate the UE150s into the production. We were challenged with an open stage, and the Panasonic cameras let us maintain a low stage presence, but with the flexibility to achieve high-quality, 4K images from multiple angles.

“We used the UE150s for some of our hero shots, and I was impressed with the camera’s lensing, wide angle, and superb image capture—I couldn’t have been happier with the results.”

PTZ camera operator Hiram Becker, a veteran operator of Panasonic remote cameras, said that the utilization of the UE150s at the Metallica concerts delivered a compelling immediacy to the finished concert film.

The performance area for the concerts was a revolving stage, with an outer ring where the symphony played, connected to a center ring where the band played and, then, at the inner circle, the drum kit riser. With some small variety of placement between the two performances, the main fixed spots for the AW-UE150s were one camera on the drum riser, the second camera downstage center on the conductor (but with the ability to spin around for hero shots of band members singing, performing guitar riffs, or playing for the camera), and the third on the opposite side of stage, 180 degrees from the conductor, to cover symphony instruments (but, again, with the ability to spin around to capture the band). 

Reflecting on his initial experience operating the AW-UE150, Becker said, “Control is so much better than with any previous PTZ camera I’ve used. The UE150’s 1-inch sensor is very powerful: we were able to set the picture quality flat enough so that post-production had a lot of space to work with to match the house cameras.

“It goes without saying that with a band like Metallica we were dealing with heavy metal pulsation, so the UE150’s Optical Image Stabilizer was very useful in dealing with the vibrations of the audio systems.”

Becker was stationed in a remote truck, working alongside the technical director and operating the AW-UE150s cameras with one AW-RP150 controller and one AW-RP50 controller. “I brought along my own RP50 as back-up and because I’m so familiar with it,” he said. “But the RP150 was like going from good to great: a smoother, eight-point axis; touchscreen control for better, faster changes of the user interface; and instantaneous saving of presets.

“Having used a variety of PTZs from other manufacturers, there is no comparison to Panasonic models for their ability to ramp into a zoom, creep during a pan, and subtly tilt up on the fly as a performer stands for a solo—and none more so than the UE150.”

The What: The latest firmware upgrade to Panasonic’s AW-UE150 4K/HD HDR-capable pan/tilt/zoom camera has added V-Log support. V-Log enables the easy integration of the AW-UE150 into sophisticated production environments where uncompromised image capture and full creative control over the image can be done later in post.

The What Else:  Working in V-Log, the AW-UE150 enables easy post-production matching to Panasonic’s other V-Log capable cameras: the renowned 4K s35mm VariCams, the newer s35mm AU-EVA1 5.7K handheld and the 2/3” 4K / HD AK-UC4000 studio/field camera system.

Conventional “709”-style video recordings, although perfect for real-time use, can easily clip highlights or limit later post production capabilities. With the AW-UE150 in the V-Log mode, the camera will output 4K and HD signals as V-Log, which can then be recorded. For ease of operator use, an optional V709 monitoring LUT may be added to the HD monitor output, which adds “normal” contrast permitting focus and exposure control. The use of an appropriate LUT box will provide an easy means of adding a desired “look” to the V-Log for use in IMAG or Realtime video display.  

[Panasonic Launches AW-UE150 PTZ Camera and AW-RP150 Remote Controller]

As part of the V-Log capable Panasonic camera family, the AW-UE150 can take advantage of the V-Log/V-Gamut based VariCam LUT Library of prebuilt image options: these are universally applicable across the AW-UE150, the ubiquitous VariCams, the EVA1 and the AK-UC4000 studio camera by means of a simple external LUT box, thus assuring continuity of image matching across all cameras for in-field monitoring or display. The same LUTs or a specifically created show-look LUT is easily applied in post-production to obtain the desired image look and format. Thus, V-Log is a means of acquiring and post-producing camera originals to generate HD, UHD, or even HDR deliverables, all from any of the V-Log capable Panasonic cameras. 

The free Ver. 2.28 upgrade delivers several additional improvements to the AW-UE150, including RTMPS support for live streaming (a protocol now required for live video uploads to social media platforms like Facebook), a preset iris mode, HDMI status menu, a real-time camera data update

ON/OFF mode in the web browser, a dedicated preset thumbnail page in the web browser, additional crop frames on the web GUI, and a TLS1.0/1.1 disable mode to facilitate secure communications.    

The Bottom Line:  Suited for streaming platforms’ demanding criteria, V-Log processing preserves the full scene tonality and color palette of the camera’s imager by means of a very low-contrast signal format (it will look like a very flat image if observed on a standard monitor). However, V-Log enables full control over the image when creatively adjusted in the post-production and grading processes. 

The What: 1 Beyond has begun shipping the 1 Beyond AutoTracker 3 camera with NDI, enabling universities, corporations, and government organizations to add automatic presenter tracking to AV over IP workflows.

The What Else: The camera produces high- and low-resolution NDI video streams and the bitrate of the stream is adjustable in the camera. Once the camera is configured over the network, it can be controlled from any third-party control device that supports VISCA over IP to turn tracking on or off.

NewTek’s NDI technology is the most widely adopted IP technology on the market and a built-in NDI | HX encoder allows the camera to provide video streams that can be viewed by NDI-compatible software or hardware devices anywhere on the same network. 

[Feature: The Latest in Lecture Capture]

The AutoTracker 3 camera with NDI retains the key features of previous AutoTracker versions which include seamless tracking, high-quality Sony sensor, dual 1080p or 720p HD-SDI output, PoE+ power, 20x optical zoom, and automatic camera functions such as focus and white balance.

Only a single standard network cable needs be connected to the AutoTracker 3 camera with NDI to provide power, control, and the NDI video stream, making it cost- and time-effective to scale presenter tracking across multiple rooms.

“1 Beyond AutoTracker 3 cameras with NDI now not only feature the leading auto tracking technology but also are the easiest to integrate into rooms,” said Terry Cullen, founder and CEO of 1 Beyond.

The Bottom Line: Using a combination of facial and motion detection to enable seamless speaker tracking, AutoTracker is well suited for lecture capture, videoconferencing, training, and many other applications at universities and corporations, eliminating the need for camera or system operators.

AutoTracker 3 cameras with NDI are shipping immediately and are priced at $7,595. 

The What: Panasonic has announced that its new AW-HE42 integrated HD pan/tilt/zoom camera will initiate deliveries this month. Offering improvements in lensing, stabilization, and interfacing versus prior Panasonic models in this class, the AW-HE42 has a suggested list price of $4,250.

The What Else: The AW-HE42 is a 1080p integrated HD camera equipped with output connectors for 3G-SDI, HDMI, SDI, USB, and LAN. The camera is equipped with a Four Drive Lens System, where three zoom lenses and one focus lens are driven independently but simultaneously. Driving each of the four lenses individually enables reduction in lens size and drive range to achieve a reduced-size body that still delivers a high image quality and high-magnification zoom—an optical 20x zoom and high-performance, ultra-high-resolution 30x zoom.

The camera offers a1080p 60/50p video output and incorporates an external sync signal input connector as well as BBS (Black Burst Sync) and tri-level sync, facilitating flexible system construction ready to handle virtually any application or venue.

The AW-HE42 is equipped with a 1/2.3-type MOS sensor and DSP (Digital Signal Processor) for high sensitivity and high resolution. In addition to the optical 20x and 30x zoom, the camera can also be set with a 12x digital zoom, or a 1.4, 2.0, 4.0, 6.0, or 8.0 digital extender zoom. The camera has a range of Pan ±175 degrees and Tilt -30 to 90 degrees, with a maximum speed of 90 degrees/s.

[Panasonic Expands AV Portfolio at InfoComm 2019]

Beyond Dynamic Range Stretch (DRS) and Digital Noise Reduction (DNR), the AW-HE42 is equipped with High Dynamic Range (HDR) mode. Potential image shake is reduced with both optical and digital four-axis automatic stabilization that detects mounting surface vibration caused by audio equipment and opening/closing doors.

IP transmission is supported to enable IP video output of up to 60 frames per second. Multi-streaming output (H.264 streaming) of up to four channels per camera and video transmission to up to 14 terminals are supported, permitting a variety of system layouts as needed for the application.

The Bottom Line: The camera’s output interfaces and genlock function support smooth, large-scale shooting with multiple cameras, making the camera well suited for a wide range of environments, from recording and broadcast of lectures, to live streaming at concerts and other events.

With more than 4,500 employees working in 46 countries, Switzerland-based Leica Geosystems knows how important it is to have premium-quality videoconferencing equipment to enable successful collaboration and communication. The surveying and geographical measurement company chose to upgrade its videoconferencing capabilities with a camera system that is designed to capture every inch of the room and every seat at the table: the 180-degree, 4K PanaCast 2 from Altia Systems.

Leica Geosystems considered all the aspects that make videoconferencing efficient and effective—ease of use, video quality, ability to make adjustments, and cost—and determined the PanaCast 2 camera was the best solution, thanks to its wall-to-wall video coverage with Panoramic-4K quality and plug-and-play operation. The PanaCast 2 pocket-sized unit houses three angled cameras and stitches the video feeds together in real-time to offer an ultra-wide, 180-degree field of view in 4K resolution.

Once the company began using PanaCast 2 cameras, their appetite for better remote collaboration grew, and they determined that they needed pan, tilt, and zoom (PTZ) functionality to allow focusing and close-ups of white boards, presentations, and individual speakers. They wanted viewers to be able to see details on presentations and read facial expressions as if they were in the room.

Altia developed its PanaCast ePTZ app to allow users to digitally pan and zoom up to 4x within the 4K video stream. With this silent functionality, Leica Geosystems can “look around” the room and even create one-button presets that will automatically focus on specific seats or areas, such as a whiteboard.

“PanaCast 2 is a cost-effective solution given the quality of manufacture and the meeting experience it provides,” said Benedikt Engler, global procurement at Leica Geosystems. “The visual quality is excellent, and the interface is intuitive, so there’s no learning curve. It’s truly the next best thing to being there.”

The plug-and-play design and operation means that PanaCast 2 units can be deployed quickly and easily across any size organization to immediately improve remote collaboration and simplify the technical needs of meetings. PanaCast 2 is compatible with leading collaboration software providers including Skype, GoToMeeting, Zoom, Webex, Slack, Google Hangouts, join.me, and more.

The What: Sony has launched its first Artificial Intelligence (AI)-based Edge Analytics solution, the REA-C1000, which allows users to create video content in real time, without the need for specialized training, additional staff, or equipment.

The What Else: The compact and lightweight REA-C1000 uses AI-based video analytics technology to analyze the input it receives from connected cameras and automatically extracts the object in focus to combine it with other images in real time on a GPU (Graphics Processor Unit). This technology, using motion/face detection and color/shape recognition, effectively makes the REA-C1000 the brain of any connected camera and AV setup, allowing education, government, and corporate organizations to create professional content that keeps audiences engaged.

“Video content has become a key method of communication in many organizations, including education, government, and corporate environments, where the demand for solutions that create high-quality content, offer a hassle-free shooting experience, and help distribute content quickly is rapidly increasing,” said Mark Bonifacio, director of education sales and marketing, Sony Electronics. “At Sony, we want to provide organizations that have a limited budget with solutions that are cost-effective, yet allow them to easily create professional and engaging video content. The REA-C1000 is yet another example of Sony working with our AV partners in corporate, education, and government organizations to create solutions that help solve real-life technology and budget challenges.”

The REA-C1000, planned to be available in spring 2019, comes with the following optional features:

Handwriting Extraction and Presenter Overlay

By optimizing parameters and processing the images received from the camera, the REA-C1000 can extract handwritten objects from black and white boards using Sony's moving/unmoving object detection algorithm. This allows audiences to clearly see written content and diagrams, while simultaneously being able to see the gestures and expressions of the presenter. This function of the REA-C1000 is particularly well suited for lecture theaters or remote learning to keep students engaged, even if they aren't physically in the same room as their teacher. Additionally, it helps all members of an audience to engage in a live presentation, in a large hall requiring sub-monitors.

Chroma Keyless CG Overlay

Based on Sony's motion detection technology, the REA-C1000's chroma keyless function can extract the presenter and overlay them onto any background without the need for a dedicated green screen or specialized training. This offers an effective chroma-key solution to make content like corporate videos, interviews, webinars, and e-learning materials much more appealing and engaging. This feature will be made available through a future software update later in 2019.

PTZ Auto Tracking

The REA-C1000 can accurately and smoothly track a presenter, ensuring they constantly stay in frame and in focus throughout their presentation. This feature offers users a cost-effective tracking solution in an education, corporate, or conference setting, without having to invest in a camera operator.

Focus Area Cropping

Using this feature, an image from one camera can be simultaneously shown as two different output images. Users are able to get an overview image in 4K and a cropped image in HD. The cropped area is selectable to be static or dynamic to follow the speaker’s movement. This feature will be made available through a future software update later in 2019.

Close-up by Gesture

The REA-C1000 can detect and react to the gestures of audience members, showing both the whole image and zoomed image in real time. When an audience member stands up, the REA-C1000 can trigger the camera to electronically auto-zoom in on that person, which is particularly useful in educational environments to measure students’ reaction and incorporate presentation settings, such as during a Q&A session.

After an initial 60-day free-of-charge trial period, each feature can be activated permanently through separate licenses, providing users with the freedom to customize features based on their individual needs and budget.

The Bottom Line: Leveraging Sony’s imaging expertise and its heritage in camera development, the REA-C1000 will support 4K/HD input and output, and will be able to connect directly to Sony’s PTZ cameras, including its range of XDCAM camcorders, which are are widely used within the broadcast industry. Additionally, with HDMI network connection, the REA-C1000 can integrate into various common AV setups involving either multiple displays, large-screen projections with monitors, or even live-streaming projects.

Visitors to ISE 2019 will be able to experience an interactive demonstration of the REA-C1000 on Sony’s stand 1.N20 at RAI Amsterdam.