Portkeys BM7 II DS Camera Field Monitor User Manual

1. Introduction

The Portkeys BM7 II DS is a high-brightness 7-inch camera field monitor designed for professional videography. It features a 2200nit display, dual-screen monitoring capabilities, and extensive wireless camera control functions for various camera models including RED, Blackmagic Design, and Sony. This manual provides detailed instructions for setting up, operating, and maintaining your monitor to ensure optimal performance.

2. What's in the Box

• BM7 II DS Camera Monitor
• Safety Box
• Screw-in DC Power Cable
• USB Drive
• BM7IIDS Sunshade
• Drop-proof Rubber Case
• Micro USB Flash Drive
• L-Type Antenna
• Gesture Operation Card
• Customer Feedback Card
• Y-Type Wrench

Note: Camera control cables (KOMODO, RED, LANC, Type-C, Canon, Sony) are optional and sold separately.

Figure 2.1: Included components and optional accessories.

3. Specifications

4. Setup

4.1 Initial Monitor Setup

Before connecting to your camera, ensure the monitor's input signal is correctly set.

1. Power on the monitor.
2. Tap the monitor screen to bring up the menu.
3. Navigate to Monitor Settings > Input.
4. Select the appropriate input (HDMI or SDI) based on your camera connection.

4.2 Wired Camera Control Setup (Sony A7M4 Example)

This section details how to establish a wired connection for camera control. The process may vary slightly for other camera models.

1. Connect the Cable: Use the control cable to connect the Multi port on your Sony A7M4 camera to the REMOTE port on the monitor.
2. Camera USB Setting: Once connected, the camera will display a "USB Connect Mode" window. Select "Remote Shooting".
3. Monitor Connection: On the monitor, tap the screen to call out the menu. Go to External Device icon > Wired (Camera Control Connection). Tap Connect. The monitor will detect the camera, and the pairing will be complete.

4.3 Wireless Camera Control Setup (Sony A7IV Example)

This section details how to establish a wireless connection for camera control. The process may vary slightly for other camera models.

1. Camera Display Settings:
   • Tap "MENU" on the camera.
   • In the setup menu, scroll to the "External Output" column.
   • Change the HDMI resolution to "1080p".
   • Change the Output Resolution to "1080p".
   • Turn off the HDMI information display.
2. Camera Wi-Fi Settings:
   • Tap "MENU" on the camera.
   • In the "Network" menu, slide to the "Network Option" column.
   • Turn off the access authentication settings.
   • Slide to the "Wi-Fi" column in the "Network" menu.
   • Change the Wi-Fi band to "2.4GHz".
   • Slide to the "Cnct./Remote Sht." column in the "Network" menu.
   • Select "Remote Shooting Function".
   • Select "Wi-Fi Direct Information". Check and write down the password.
3. Monitor Wi-Fi Connection:
   • Tap the monitor screen to bring up the menu.
   • Tap "External Device" > "Wi-Fi" > "Add New Device".
   • Select the corresponding camera from the list.
   • Enter the SSID password and confirm it. The connection should be successful.
4. Reconnecting: When you turn on the monitor again and connect the camera via Wi-Fi, you do not need to re-enter the device password. You can find the device in the "My Device" column and click "Connect" to successfully reconnect. If the connection fails, remove the device from "My Device" and repeat the previous Wi-Fi connection steps.

5. Operating the Monitor

5.1 Basic Camera Control (via Monitor)

After successful connection, you can use the monitor to control various camera functions directly from the touchscreen interface.

• Recording: Tap "REC" to start or stop video recording.
• Aperture (IRIS): Tap "IRIS" to adjust the aperture value.
• Shutter (SHUTTER): Tap "SHUTTER" to adjust the shutter speed.
• ISO: Tap "ISO" to adjust the ISO settings.
• Focus: Tap "FOCUS" to enable the touch focus function. You can then tap on the screen to perform touch focus. In MF mode, you can switch focus via the screen buttons.
• Digital Zoom: Tap "ZOOM" to control the camera's digital zoom. (Note: This parameter can only be adjusted after the zoom range is changed to digital zoom in the camera settings).
• Color Temperature (CT): Tap "CT" to adjust the color temperature.
• Exposure Value (EV): Tap "EV" to adjust the exposure value.
• Frame Rate (FPS): Tap "FPS" to change the camera frame rate.
• Aspect Ratio: Click on the current resolution and aspect ratio to select the shooting resolution and aspect ratio.

5.2 Split Screen Monitoring

The BM7 II DS supports various split-screen modes, allowing you to monitor multiple feeds or different compositions from the same source simultaneously.

• Two screens can load the same 3D LUT file.
• Supports dual horizontal/dual vertical/left horizontal and right vertical/left vertical and right horizontal/left horizontal and right vertical cropping of the same source.
• Left and right screens can be flipped individually and mirrored.

Figure 5.1: Various split-screen modes including PBP, H2V crop, and PIP.

Figure 5.2: Detailed view of split screen monitoring options.

5.3 Collaborative Control

Collaborative Control allows multiple monitors to manage camera settings and recording simultaneously. This feature is supported on all models with wireless control capabilities running MOVNORM OS and CINENORM OS.

• One active control device can control up to four passive control devices, managing a total of five units including itself.
• Passive devices must connect to the camera via Wi-Fi to enable collaborative control.
• The active device can connect to the camera via either Wi-Fi or a wired connection.
• Once Collaborative Control is enabled, the Device Name and control modes (Active/Passive) cannot be modified.
• When a monitor running the MOVNORM system is set as the active control device, passive devices can be added from the Collaborative Control panel.
• By tapping the Collaborative Control icon at the top left corner of the screen, users can switch between each device's camera control interface and manage the Wi-Fi camera connections for the passive devices.
• When the active device starts recording, all bound passive devices will start recording simultaneously.
• You can tap the Delete icon to remove a passive device.

5.4 Custom Pages and Tools

The monitor offers customizable pages and a wide array of professional tools to enhance your workflow.

• You can have up to seven different custom pages, allowing quick access to specific tool configurations.
• Tools include peaking, false color (including ARRI false color), waveforms, histograms, 3D LUTs, anamorphic de-squeeze, and more.
• Custom JPG Picture Freeze Frame: After capturing an image, it can be compared with real-time video by semi-transparent image superposition (must be a 16:9 1920x1080 JPG).
• Custom Rectangular Image Crop: Easily and clearly monitor the details of your images.
• Customized Peaking Range (Peaking Frame): Peaking perfectly avoids rendering camera parameters.
• Factory Color Calibration-709 Colour Gamut with X-Rite 1D Hardware: For more accurate color calibration and more intuitive image monitoring.

Figure 5.3: False Color Log display for exposure analysis.

Figure 5.4: Custom JPG Picture Freeze Frame for comparing images.

Figure 5.5: Custom Rectangular Image Crop for detailed monitoring.

Figure 5.6: Customized Peaking Range (Peaking Frame) for precise focus assistance.

Figure 5.7: Factory Color Calibration for accurate color representation.

6. Maintenance

Proper maintenance ensures the longevity and optimal performance of your Portkeys BM7 II DS monitor.

• Cleaning: Use a soft, dry cloth to clean the monitor's screen and body. For stubborn smudges, a microfiber cloth with a small amount of screen cleaner can be used. Avoid abrasive materials or harsh chemicals.
• Heat Management: The monitor features a built-in fan for fast heat dissipation. In certain conditions, the device may get warm. The fan speed can be adjusted manually to manage temperature.
• Storage: When not in use, store the monitor in its safety box or a protective case to prevent damage from dust, moisture, and impacts.
• Battery Care: If using NP-F batteries, ensure they are charged and stored according to manufacturer guidelines. Remove batteries if the monitor will not be used for an extended period.

7. Troubleshooting

This section addresses common issues you might encounter with your Portkeys BM7 II DS monitor.

• No Signal/Image Issues:
  • Ensure all cables (HDMI/SDI) are securely connected to both the camera and the monitor.
  • Verify the monitor's input signal setting matches your camera's output.
  • Check camera settings: Ensure HDMI/SDI output resolution and frequency are correctly set (e.g., 1080p, 59.94Hz). Incorrect parameters can lead to image issues.
  • Confirm the camera's HDMI information display is turned off, as it can interfere with the monitor's display.
• Wireless Connection Failure:
  • Double-check the Wi-Fi password (SSID) entered on the monitor.
  • Ensure the camera's Wi-Fi SSID begins with "KOMODO" for RED cameras, or is the default name for other compatible cameras, otherwise the monitor may not receive the signal.
  • Verify the Wi-Fi band is set to 2.4GHz on both the camera and monitor.
  • If reconnection fails, try removing the device from the "My Device" list on the monitor and repeat the connection steps.
• Overheating:
  • The monitor's CNC Aluminum Alloy shell and built-in fan are designed for efficient heat dissipation.
  • Ensure the fan vents are not obstructed.
  • Adjust the fan speed manually if operating in hot environments or during prolonged use.
• No Instructions Included (Common User Feedback):
  • This manual aims to provide comprehensive instructions. For further assistance, refer to the official Portkeys website or contact customer support.

8. Warranty & Support

Portkeys products typically come with a manufacturer's warranty covering defects in materials and workmanship. Please refer to the warranty card included in your product packaging or visit the official Portkeys website for detailed warranty terms and conditions.

For technical support, troubleshooting assistance, or inquiries regarding your product, please contact Portkeys customer service through their official website or the contact information provided in your product documentation.

Official Website: www.portkeys.com