Blackmagic Design ATEM Camera Control Panel User Manual

Introduction

The Blackmagic Design ATEM Camera Control Panel is a compact, professional remote camera control unit designed for live production environments. It allows a single operator to control up to four Blackmagic URSA Broadcast, URSA Mini, Blackmagic Studio, or Blackmagic Micro Studio cameras simultaneously. This panel provides traditional broadcast-style controls for precise adjustments of technical parameters, freeing camera operators to focus on creative aspects like framing and composition.

This manual provides detailed instructions for setting up, operating, maintaining, and troubleshooting your ATEM Camera Control Panel.

1. Setup

Proper setup ensures optimal performance and seamless integration with your ATEM live production switcher.

1.1 Unpacking and Initial Inspection

• Carefully remove all components from the packaging.
• Verify that all included items are present: ATEM Camera Control Panel, 6ft Power Cord, 7ft Cat5e Cable, 6ft USB-C Cable, Solid Signal Cable Ties.
• Inspect the unit for any signs of physical damage. If damage is found, contact your reseller immediately.

1.2 Power Connection

Connect the included 6ft Power Cord to the AC power input on the rear of the ATEM Camera Control Panel and then to a suitable power outlet.

1.3 Network Connection (Ethernet)

The ATEM Camera Control Panel connects to your ATEM live production switcher or ATEM hardware control panel via Ethernet. Use the included 7ft Cat5e Cable for this connection.

• Connect one end of the Ethernet cable to an Ethernet port on the ATEM Camera Control Panel.
• Connect the other end to an Ethernet port on your ATEM switcher or another ATEM device in your network. Ethernet can be looped from one ATEM device to another.
• Ensure your ATEM switcher and cameras are properly configured for network communication.

1.4 USB-C Connection

The USB-C port on the rear of the panel is used for firmware updates and initial configuration via a computer. Connect the included 6ft USB-C Cable to your computer and the panel when performing these tasks.

Figure 1: The ATEM Camera Control Panel with its included accessories, including power, Ethernet, and USB-C cables.

Figure 2: Rear view of the control panel, highlighting the AC power input, XLR DC input, Ethernet ports, and USB-C port for connectivity.

2. Operating the Control Panel

The ATEM Camera Control Panel is designed with a familiar and logical layout for efficient camera control.

2.1 Overview of Controls

The panel features four camera controllers, each with a dedicated LCD screen, soft buttons, and knobs at the top, and a full set of professional controls below.

Figure 3: Detailed view of the control panel's interface, showing the four camera control sections with their respective LCDs, buttons, and joysticks.

Figure 4: Angled perspective of the control panel, illustrating the ergonomic design and accessibility of its various controls.

2.2 Scene and Camera Controls (Top Section)

• Scene Presets: Use the controls in the top section to save and recall scene presets. This allows for quick adjustments to cameras based on changes in lighting or scene conditions.
• Master Gain: Adjust the overall gain level for the camera.
• White Balance: Perform white balancing to ensure accurate color reproduction.
• Shutter Speed: Modify the camera's shutter speed to control motion blur and exposure.

2.3 Gain and Pedestal Controls (Center Section)

• This section features independent RGB controls for gain (white levels) and pedestal (black levels).
• Adjust individual red, green, and blue levels in your blacks and whites to compensate for unwanted color casts and achieve precise color balance.

2.4 Lens and Iris Controls (Bottom Section)

• LED Camera Number: Indicates the active camera and its preview/on-air status.
• Joystick: A high-quality professional joystick is used for precise adjustment of the iris (aperture) and master black levels.
• Call Button: Activates talkback communication with the camera operator.
• Panel Lock Button: Locks the panel controls to prevent accidental changes during live production.
• Indicators: LEDs for network, power, and cable connection status to the camera.

3. Maintenance

Regular maintenance helps ensure the longevity and reliable operation of your ATEM Camera Control Panel.

• Cleaning: Use a soft, dry, lint-free cloth to clean the exterior of the unit. Avoid using liquid cleaners, aerosols, or solvents, as these can damage the finish or internal components.
• Firmware Updates: Periodically check the Blackmagic Design support website for new firmware updates. Keeping your panel's firmware up-to-date ensures access to the latest features and performance improvements. Connect via USB-C for updates.
• Storage: When not in use for extended periods, store the panel in a clean, dry environment, away from extreme temperatures and direct sunlight.

4. Troubleshooting

This section addresses common issues you might encounter with your ATEM Camera Control Panel.

4.1 No Power

• Check Power Cable: Ensure the AC power cord is securely connected to both the panel and a working power outlet.
• Verify Outlet: Test the power outlet with another device to confirm it is supplying power.

4.2 No Connection to ATEM Switcher/Cameras

• Ethernet Cable: Confirm the Ethernet cable is securely connected to both the control panel and the ATEM switcher/network. Try a different Ethernet cable if necessary.
• Network Configuration: Ensure the IP addresses and network settings of the control panel, ATEM switcher, and cameras are correctly configured and on the same subnet. Refer to the Blackmagic Design ATEM Switcher manual for network setup details.
• ATEM Switcher Status: Verify that your ATEM switcher is powered on and functioning correctly.
• Camera Compatibility/Firmware: Ensure your Blackmagic cameras are compatible with the ATEM Camera Control Panel and have the latest firmware installed.

4.3 Controls Unresponsive

• Panel Lock: Check if the "Panel Lock" button is engaged. Disengage it to enable controls.
• Restart: Try power cycling the ATEM Camera Control Panel and the ATEM switcher.
• Firmware: Ensure the panel's firmware is up-to-date.

For further assistance, visit the official Blackmagic Design support website or contact their customer service.

5. Specifications

Key technical specifications for the Blackmagic Design ATEM Camera Control Panel (SWPANELCCU4).

Figure 5: Diagram illustrating the physical dimensions (length, width, height) and weight of the ATEM Camera Control Panel.

6. Warranty and Support

For detailed information regarding the product warranty, please refer to the official Blackmagic Design website or the warranty card included with your purchase. Warranty terms and conditions may vary by region.

For technical support, software downloads, and additional resources, please visit the Blackmagic Design support page:

Blackmagic Design Support