[Ankit Patel]

Hi Matt, Hi Trevor,

Matt is correct that not all cameras are capable of genlock. For example, I don’t think there are any HDMI only cameras that can be timed (accept genlock).

In terms of wiring you will need a synch generator that has multiple outputs or you may have to use a DA (distribution amplifier) to increase the number of outputs from your synch generator. You then run the genlock signal from the synch generator or DA into each of your SDI cameras that accept genlock and also into the switcher’s genlock input. This way all of the devices will be on the same “clock”.

All of the inputs will then be timed and the switcher will be able to do a clean line cut between cameras without adding any delay. As you already know, if you have wild feeds, stuff that cannot be genlocked, The frame synch will do this job of aligning the various signals but that will cost you one frame of delay.

The ATEM automatically enables and disables the frame synch. Imagine that the switcher has it’s own internal clock. If you provide the switcher genlock then it’s internal clock gets synched with that genlock signal.

For each input, the switcher checks if the input is in time with it’s internal clock (which may be your house synch) and if the input is off time then the frame synch is automatically turned on. If the input is in time then the frame synch is not enabled.

You cannot manually control the frame synch and there are no controls to “advance or delay the sync and subcarrier” in the switcher.

Trevor for your other question, the ATEM does not have any “emem” or snapshot capability.

I hope you find this information helpful.

All the best!
Ankit Patel
Blackmagic Design

[Ankit Patel]

Hi Trevor,

You are correct that the ATEM has a frame synchronizer on every input. However, ATEM also has a genlock input. So if you genlock your system you can get the delay down to 1 line. Don’t forget that depending on the camera there is delay in the camera and there is always delay in the projector or screen you use for monitoring.

If you do use the frame synch then yes it will add one frame of delay.

Kind regards,
Ankit Patel
Blackmagic Design

[Ankit Patel]

Hi Dean,

The ATEM Software Control is a very “light” application and does not use much in terms of computing power. All the switching work is done by the hardware switcher and the computer is just a sending commands to control the switcher.

In short, you can most probably use the same computer for streaming and the control panel. I know there are customers using a Mac Pro to do this with the ATEM now.

I hope this helps,
Ankit Patel
Blackmagic Design

[Ankit Patel]

Hi Jeff,

I’m sorry but I don’t understand the issue you are seeing.

The ATEM keyers do support gradients, in fact there are example graphics installed with the ATEM Switcher Control software that have gradients and transparency in them.

Have you tried using a pre multiplied key? The gain control does provide some level of control for gradient edges but for the best results you will have to use a pre multiplied key.

I hope this information is helpful.

Kind regards,
Ankit Patel
Blackmagic Design

[Ankit Patel]

Hi Matt,

We have completed standard definition support on the ATEM 1 M/E Production Switcher. The software update is version 2.0 and is available now on the support page of our web site. We have also fixed a few minor bugs.

To perform the upgrade, you will have to download and install the version 2.0 software on your Mac or Windows machine. Once the software is installed connect your computer to the ATEM Production Switcher using a USB cable and run the ATEM Setup Utility. The software will prompt you to update the internal software. Repeat with the Broadcast Panel if you have one.

We have more software updates coming, so please keep checking our web site for updates.

Thanks
Ankit Patel

[Ankit Patel]

Hi Scott, Shane and Bob.

The ATEM 1 M/E Production Switcher and the ATEM 1M/E Broadcast Panel are just about to ship.

We have been shipping to beta testers over the last 2 weeks and testing has been very good so far. We have also shipped a few dozen units to technically minded customers who can accept early units that might need software updates if incompatibilities or bugs are found. Initially we are shipping with support for 720p and 1080i HD formats. SD support will be added via a software update in the next month.

Our beta testers have suggested some changes and we are close to completing those now. We are also starting to get more components, so we think we are days away from full production and we expect wider availability very soon.

If anyone has an order for an ATEM 1 M/E Production Switcher or ATEM 1M/E Broadcast Panel, and would be ok with getting an early unit, then please contact us at one of our offices.

https://www.blackmagic-design.com/company/

Kind regards,
Ankit Patel
Director of Switcher Products
Blackmagic Design

[Ankit Patel]

Hi Charle,

Please send me an email with your contact info so that I can call you to see if I can help. Echolab had a few versions of the Nova and I will need to know exactly which version you have.

As you know getting parts for the old Echolab systems is very difficult however if I can help you identify the OEM source of the power supply you might have some more luck finding a replacement.

Kind regards,
Ankit Patel
ankitp@blackmagic-design.com

[Ankit Patel]

Hi Burg,

I was the Sr. Product Manager at Echolab and I have been working at Blackmagic ever since Blackmagic acquired the assets.

I know which switches you are referring to and unfortunately they are impossible to find. As a matter of fact the manufacturer of those switches stopped producing them about 1.5 years ago when Echolab did a last time buy.

I’m sorry I could not be more helpful.

Kind regards,
Ankit Patel