34 CREATION
May-June 2017
Developing the next generation of miniature , high-speed POV cameras for live sports
BY EDD BONNER
Today ’ s sports fans expect an ever more amazing viewing experience through features such as high frame rate ( HFR ) replays . But until now , broadcasters have faced limited choices for high-speed , point-of-view ( POV ) cameras that can offer these effects with the real-time processing critical for live sports . In response , Bexel has developed a small POV camera that could support the same workflows and provide the same functionality as a large high-speed camera , but at an affordable price point .
To capture a beautiful , highquality image , we chose a micro 4 / 3-inch imager . By running a slightly larger image than a normal broadcast camera , our solution could capture as much light as possible for high-speed video capture .
Next , we focused on making the camera fit easily into production workflows . Through connection to a digital camera recovery ( DDR ), the camera processor could convert the video stream into separate phases for high-speed data in real time while providing all the necessary video handles .
Raw high-speed data is brought to the camera processor , where a field-programmable gate array ( FPGA ) circuit processes converts the data into the outputs needed for live high-speed video recording . Users can control the video image and create handles for all the usual controls a video engineer is accustomed to .
The result is Clarity 800-HD , a camera with a slightly larger footprint than a standard business card that can output HD video at a frame rate up to 8x ( 480fps ) at 1080p and offer the complete functionality of a larger high-speed camera . Equipped with a 4K / Ultra HD ( UHD ) micro 4 / 3-inch complementary metal oxide semiconductor ( CMOS ) imager and 1080p HD
The Clarity 800-HD is a POV camera that supports the same workflows and functionalities as a large , highspeed camera , according to Bexel .
signal processing , the Clarity 800- HD delivers outstanding images and clear , sharp replays .
It also offers real-time processing via fibre optics and integration with industry-standard video servers , with a full-function camera remote control panel ( RCP ) for paint control and a positive-locking lens mount with lens control of focus , iris and zoom motors . Handles on the video allow the camera to be painted to match the larger cameras on the production , and yet the Clarity 800-HD can be mounted and placed in areas that have not been accessible for other HFR cameras .
Today ’ s broadcasters need solutions that will help them stay ahead of viewer demand for the latest formats , and high-quality , real-time HFR video is no exception . We believe that a robust and affordable high-speed camera like the Clarity 800-HD — which is currently available for rent exclusively through Bexel and Camera Corps — is a highly desirable solution .
�Today ’ s broadcasters need solutions that will help them stay ahead of viewer demand for the latest formats , and high-quality , real-time HFR video is no exception . �
Edd Bonner is VP of Engineering and Operations at Bexel .
Miller Skyline 90 built for challenging environs
In collaboration with Ronford Baker , a company providing fluid heads and tripods for the cinema industry , Miller Camera Support has unveiled the Skyline 90 fluid head .
Designed to meet the “ stringent and rigorous ” standards presented by challenging environments and conditions of outside broadcast ( OB ), the Skyline 90 supports payloads of up to 75kg ( 165 lbs ).
It features continuous counterbalance control that ranges from zero to 75kg ( 165 lbs ) at 30cm ( 12 inches ) above the centre tilt axis , as well as 15 + 0 fluid pan-tilt drag positions to ensure the optimum drag for any lens focal length , according to Miller .
Equipped with a sliding platform that features 300mm of sliding range , the Skyline 90 also comes with an auto safety lock to
The new Skyline 90 fluid head from Miller Camera Support is designed specifically for large outside broadcast productions .
ensure a secure horizontal position when loading or dismantling heavy box lenses .
The floating calliper pan-andtilt locks with large metal levers can be operated simultaneously with one hand without causing picture disturbance , while two bubble levels located at either side of the head allow for convenient leveling , added Miller .
Charles Montesin , global sales and marketing manager , Miller Camera Support , said : “ The Skyline 90 is the product resulting from the best technological innovations the two companies ( Miller and Ronford Baker ) can deliver .
“ As Miller remains committed to the OB market by supplying fluid heads that achieve its signature ‘ right feel ’, the company will strive to continue bringing together the greatest minds in engineering to create the best products .”
Be in control with the Vinten μVRC
Vinten , a provider of robotic camera support systems and part of the Vitec Group , has introduced the Vinten μVRC ( microVRC ) controller .
This first-of-a-kind solution , according to Vinten , allows studios of any shape or size to control high-end robotics and thirdparty pan-tilt-zoom ( PTZ ) systems . The company also recommends that users pair the μVRC with Vinten ’ s Vantage compact robotic head .
Neil Gardner , product manager at Vinten , explained : “ The amount of content being produced and consumed has increased exponentially , while the cost of production has fallen significantly and broadcast-quality equipment is becoming ever more accessible to smaller studios .
“ And as smaller studios continue to emerge , we wanted to pair our innovative Vantage compact robotic head with a flexible , ergonomic control solution for this rising demographic . By pioneering the new μVRC controller , we now have a complete robust solution that lets any studio leverage high-quality Vinten robotic systems and reap the benefits of perfect control .”
With μVRC , users can control multiple units for various shooting angles , while the modular version of Vinten ’ s HD-VRC software provides access to a number of features , including camera select , pre-set shots , essential shading , playback and video switcher integration that connects with third-party switchers .
The studio market is “ rapidly changing ”, and the need to deploy smaller
The μVRC controller allows studios of any shape or size to control high-end robotics and third-party pan-tilt-zoom ( PTZ ) systems , says Vinten .
pro-video cameras is on the rise , Gardner observed . “ By using the μVRC controller in tandem with Vantage , users are given the opportunity to choose which camera and lens would be best for them while staying within budget .
“ And now , with the option to add on functionality according to what you need , this new controller opens up the market to a whole new range of possibilities , especially for broadcast applications such as house of worship , green screen environments and video enterprise ,” he concluded .