Audio Effects introduces Blackmagic Design ATEM Constellation HD, a series of three incredibly powerful HD live production switchers including ATEM 1 M/E Constellation HD (10 inputs), ATEM 2 M/E Constellation HD (20 inputs), and ATEM 4 M/E Constellation HD with as many as 40 inputs! Each model in this series doubles the features of the previous one, not only in terms of inputs but also in terms of functionality! Featuring exceptional versatility made possible by advanced features including DVE, ATEM chromatic keyer, multiview and SuperSource processors, they even offer standards conversion on every SDI input! This means that any 1080p input source can be converted to the switcher’s video standard! In addition to 3G-SDI inputs, the connections provide independent and customizable 3G-SDI outputs (6, 12 and 24, respectively), which allow any SDI input or internal source to be routed to each SDI output independently, making these switchers ideal for sending separate streams to on-stage screens, master recorders and streaming processors. Or, each SDI output can be connected to a separate recorder and each deck gets resynchronized signals from the switcher with the same time code.
With a compact rack-format design, the ATEM Constellation HDs feature a convenient control panel for prompt action during setup or in an emergency, on which there is room for an LCD display to monitor program output and change settings.
Broadcast-style M/E switching
What does the term M/E mean when it comes to video switchers? M/E stands for Mix / Effect engine. Basically, my switcher is capable of producing two or more program outputs simultaneously-it is like having several different switchers sharing the same video sources but doing different things to produce different programs because they are completely separate Mix / Effect engine (M/E engine) outputs on different program buses. This can be useful, for example, when image enlargements have to be made to produce a video feed intended for a video projector. Very often, we do not want the same content we are sending to a live stream to be displayed on the video projector screen. Or, we may want to include a PowerPoint or Keynote presentation and display it on our projector screen but not include it in a live feed.
ATEM Constellation HD makes use of the classic professional program/preview style, the mode used by large broadcasters for live productions that allows you to select a source on the preview bus to make sure it is the right one before pressing the CUT or AUTO button to air it. Mistakes are avoided with this mode because it requires two controls.
Designed for large live events
ATEM Constellation HD switchers include a wide range of broadcast-quality transitions such as mix, dip, wipe and more. All transitions can be customized in the system control menus with adjustments for color and edge width, position, direction, and more. They also include a powerful digital video effects processor for DVE transitions, which can be leveraged to achieve extraordinary multi-level compositions and make live sporting events more engaging. With the ability to achieve fabulous multi-camera coverage (e.g., ATEM 4 M/E Constellation HD offers 4 HD multiview outputs to monitor up to 64 camera signals, program and preview on 4 screens), these sophisticated switchers are ideal for concerts and music festivals, but they can also be successfully used for productions in houses of worship because they return professional results but, at the same time, are simple to set up and easy to manage even by volunteers who are certainly not professional video operators.
Additional features
- 4, 8 or 16 advanced color and luminance keys
- 1, 2 or 4 multiviews
- RS-422 port for serial control and MADI connections for digital audio in the ATEM 4 M/E Constellation HD
- Universal SDI camera control, tally and talkback
- USB webcam output for video software
- 5-pin XLR connector for use with headset to interface standard professional talkback systems
- Internal storage for stills and graphics
- High-end professional audio performance (balanced audio)
- Ethernet port for control
- 3 models of ATEM Advanced Panel available
- Compatibility with Blackmagic’s HyperDeck Studio cameras and recorders
