Datavideo has launched a new product that it says revolutionises the way 4K cameras are used for live video productions. The KMU-100 is a 4K multi-camera production solution that delivers multiple virtual full HD (up to 1080p) scaled camera angles with minimal installation cost and simple operation.
The basic concept is straightforward: the output of a single 4K/UHD camera is connected to the KMU-100, which then displays up to four 16×9 user-defined cropped windows that are sent out as four separate HD signals through HD-SDI. These user-defined windows can be scaled to zoom in on a particular subject that the user would like to highlight on the 4K signal. An additional 4K camera could be connected to allow up to eight defined outputs from the two 4K signals. As an option, the Datavideo RMC-180 camera controller can be added to easily pan, tilt and zoom to create the user-defined windows on the 4K signal. These shots can be set up in advance and saved as presets, or done in real-time.
For example, to broadcast a live three-piece band concert using a 4K camera simply set up the 4K/UHD camera with a wide angle shot, then connect the camera output to the KMU-100. Use the RMC-180 controller to select up to four 16×9 windows which could be positioned with a joystick as well as resized from any part of the original 4K signal. This will create the following shots:
- Wide angle of the band
- A close up shot of the lead singer
- Close up of the drummer and drum set
- Close up of the piano player
These four virtual camera signals (up to 1080p) could be connected to any HD-SDI switcher, giving the illusion of a multi-camera production when in reality, only one 4K camera is being used.
“Finally, it’s viable to use a 4K camera in live multi-camera production,” stated Craig Moffat, managing director of Datavideo US.
“Imagine how convenient it would be to set up a live video production for concerts, press conferences, sporting events, or a worship service. No camera operator needed and minimal set-up time – a real game changer for live video producers.”
