OBSBOT Tail Air

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OBSBOT Tail Air NDI Streaming Camera User Manual

Model: Tail Air

Introduction

The OBSBOT Tail Air is a compact 4K PTZ camera designed for live streaming and video production. It features AI tracking capabilities, versatile connectivity options, and intuitive app control to enhance your content creation. This manual provides essential information for setting up, operating, and maintaining your device.

Key Features:

  • Compact 4K Performance: Small size with crystal-clear 4K resolution, supporting 320° horizontal and 180° vertical rotation.
  • NDI Streaming: Effortlessly stream footage to a local network, reducing cable complexity. (NDI License Key requires additional purchase).
  • Versatile Connectivity: Micro HDMI, USB-C, Ethernet, and Wireless connections. Supports RTMP, RTSP, and VISCA protocols for streaming to various platforms.
  • Intelligent App Control: OBSBOT Start companion software offers AI Director, Preset Positions, and customizable visual settings. (Firmware updates require a U3 Micro SD card).
  • Advanced AI Tracking: Tracks humans, animals, and objects with precision and responsiveness.
  • Multi-Camera Setup: Create professional broadcast studios with multiple Tail Air cameras for diverse angles.
  • Multiple Control Options: Operate via gestures, remote control, PC & mobile software, or stream desk. (UVC mode in PC software enables plug-and-play webcam functionality).

What's in the Box

The OBSBOT Tail Air package includes the following items:

  • OBSBOT Tail Air Camera x1
  • Storage Box x1
  • Outer Package x1
  • USB-C Male to Dual USB-C Female Splitter x1
  • USB-C Cable x1
  • USB-C to USB-A Adapter x1
  • Quick Start Guide x1
  • Warranty Card x1
OBSBOT Tail Air camera and included accessories in their packaging

Image: OBSBOT Tail Air camera, storage box, cables, and documentation.

Setup

Follow these steps to set up your OBSBOT Tail Air camera:

  1. Unboxing: Carefully remove all items from the packaging.
  2. Power On: Ensure the camera is charged or connected to a power source using the provided USB-C cable.
  3. Mounting:
    • For monitor mounting, use the built-in monitor mount.
    • For tripod mounting, use the 1/4-20 tripod socket at the base of the camera.
  4. Connectivity: Connect the camera to your device or network using one of the following methods:
    • USB-C: Use the USB-C cable for direct connection to a computer. Enable UVC mode in the PC software for plug-and-play webcam functionality.
    • Micro HDMI: Connect to an external display or capture card.
    • Ethernet: Use an Ethernet cable for wired network streaming.
    • Wireless: Connect via Wi-Fi for wireless streaming and app control.
  5. Micro SD Card: Insert a U3 Micro SD card for firmware updates and local recording.
OBSBOT Tail Air showing Micro HDMI, USB-C, and Ethernet ports being connected

Image: Close-up view of the OBSBOT Tail Air's multi-port connection options, including Micro HDMI, USB-C, and Ethernet.

Operating Instructions

OBSBOT Start App Usage

The OBSBOT Start app provides comprehensive control over your Tail Air camera. Download the app to access various settings and features.

  • Video Capture Settings: Adjust ISO, shutter, EV, and other visual parameters.
  • AI Director Grids: Utilize the AI algorithm to automatically divide video into grids for real-time selection and live platform pushing.
  • Preset Positions: Save and recall specific camera positions for quick transitions.
  • Customizable Composition Lines: Adjust human tracking composition lines to fine-tune framing.
OBSBOT Start app interface showing various camera controls and settings

Image: The OBSBOT Start app interface displaying camera settings, AI tracking options, and preset positions.

AI Tracking

The Tail Air features advanced AI tracking for various subjects:

  • Human Tracking: Automatically follows human subjects.
  • Animal Tracking: Tracks animal subjects.
  • Object Tracking: Follows specific objects.
OBSBOT Tail Air tracking a human, an animal, and an object

Image: The OBSBOT Tail Air demonstrating its ability to track humans, animals, and various objects.

Gesture Control

Control your camera remotely using intuitive hand gestures:

  • Lock/Unlock Target: Use a specific hand gesture to start or stop tracking a subject.
  • Zoom In/Out: Adjust the zoom level with hand movements.
  • Start/Stop Recording: Initiate or end video recording.
  • Dynamic Zoom In/Out: Control zoom dynamically with hands.
Examples of hand gestures for controlling OBSBOT Tail Air

Image: A person demonstrating various hand gestures for controlling the OBSBOT Tail Air camera, including locking target, zooming, and recording.

Multi-Camera Setup

Combine multiple Tail Air cameras to create a professional broadcast studio with diverse angles and seamless integration into existing workflows.

Multiple OBSBOT Tail Air cameras set up for a live production studio

Image: A multi-camera setup featuring several OBSBOT Tail Air units, a control panel, and a laptop, illustrating a live production studio.

Streaming

The Tail Air supports various streaming protocols and platforms:

  • Protocols: RTMP, RTSP, VISCA, UVC, OSC.
  • Platforms: Stream directly to platforms like Facebook, YouTube, Twitch, and more.
  • NDI Support: Utilize NDI|HX3 for high-quality, low-latency, frame-accurate streaming over a local network. (NDI activation code needs to be purchased separately).
OBSBOT Tail Air NDI streaming capabilities and supported protocols

Image: Visual representation of OBSBOT Tail Air's NDI streaming features, highlighting supported protocols like RTMP, RTSP, VISCA, UVC, and OSC.

Specifications

BrandOBSBOT
Model NumberTail Air
Item Weight1.76 pounds
Product Dimensions2.72 x 2.87 x 5.31 inches
ColorBlack
BatteriesLithium Polymer batteries required (included)
Special FeaturesNDI Support (RTMP/RTSP/VISCA/UVC/OSC Support)
Photo Sensor TechnologyCMOS
Video Capture Resolution4K@30 FPS, 1080P@60 FPS
Maximum Focal Length12 Millimeters
Maximum Aperture1.8 f
Flash Memory TypeMicro SD
Video Capture FormatMJPEG, H264, H265
Supported Audio FormatMP3, WAV, AAC, FLAC
Screen Size1.8 Inches
Connectivity TechnologyBluetooth, Ethernet, HDMI, USB, Wi-Fi
Date First AvailableSeptember 22, 2023

Maintenance

  • Firmware Updates: Ensure your camera's firmware is up-to-date for optimal performance. Firmware updates typically require inserting a U3 Micro SD card into the camera. Refer to the OBSBOT Start app for update notifications and instructions.
  • Auto Sleep: Configure the auto sleep function in the OBSBOT Start app to conserve battery and enhance privacy. You can set the sleep time and choose a sleep background.
  • Cleaning: Gently clean the lens and camera body with a soft, dry cloth. Avoid abrasive materials or harsh chemicals.

Troubleshooting

If you encounter any technical problems while using your OBSBOT Tail Air streaming camera, please refer to the following general advice:

  • Check Connections: Ensure all cables (USB-C, HDMI, Ethernet) are securely connected.
  • Restart Device: Try restarting the camera and the connected device (computer, smartphone).
  • App/Software Update: Verify that the OBSBOT Start app and any related PC software are updated to the latest version.
  • Firmware: Check if a firmware update is available for your camera.
  • Technical Support: If issues persist, feel free to contact the OBSBOT technical support team for assistance.

Warranty and Support

OBSBOT provides professional technical support for the Tail Air streaming camera. If you encounter any technical problems, please contact our technical support team to ensure you get the best product experience.

For detailed warranty information, please refer to the Warranty Card included in your product package or visit the official OBSBOT website.

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