Revised – January 9, 2018
Trademarks: NewTek, NewTek VMC1, NewTek VMC1 IN, NewTek VMC1 OUT, NewTek NC1, NewTek NC1 IN, NewTek
NC1 I/O, TriCaster, TriCaster TC1, TriCaster Advanced Edition, TriCaster XD, TriCaster 8000, TriCaster TCXD8000,
TCXD8000, TriCaster 860, TriCaster TCXD860, TCXD860, TriCaster 460, TriCaster TCXD460, TCXD460, TriCaster 410,
TriCaster TCXD410, TCXD410, TriCaster Mini SDI, TriCaster Mini, TriCaster 40, TriCaster TCXD40, TCXD40, TriCaster
855, TriCaster TCXD855, TCXD855, TriCaster 455, TriCaster TCXD455, TCXD455, TriCaster EXTREME, TriCaster 850
EXTREME, TriCaster TCXD850 EXTREME, TCXD850 EXTREME, TriCaster 450 EXTREME, TriCaster TCXD450 EXTREME,
TCXD450 EXTREME, TriCaster 850, TriCaster TCXD850, TCXD850, TriCaster 450, TriCaster TCXD450, TCXD450,
TriCaster 300, TriCaster TCXD300, TCXD300, TriCaster PRO, TriCaster STUDIO, TriCaster BROADCAST, TriCaster DUO,
MediaDS, MDS1, 3PLAY, 3Play, 3Play 3P1, 3Play 4800, 3PXD4800, 3Play 440, 3PXD440, 3Play Mini, 3Play 820,
3PXD820, 3Play 425, 3PXD425 3Play 330, 3PXD330, TalkShow, TalkShow VS 4000, TalkShow VS100, Network Device
Interface, NDI, NewTek Connect, NewTek Connect Spark, NewTek IsoCorder, ProTek, ProTek Care, ProTek Elite,
iVGA, SpeedEDIT, IsoCorder, LiveText, DataLink, LiveSet, TriCaster Virtual Set Editor, Virtual Set Editor Advanced
Edition, TriCaster VSE, TriCaster VSE Advanced Edition, LiveMatte, TimeWarp, VT, VT[3], VT[4], V[T5], Video Toaster,
Toaster, Inspire 3D, 3D Arsenal, Aura, LightWave, LightWave 3D and LightWave CORE are trademarks, service marks,
and registered trademarks of NewTek. All other brand names, product names, or trademarks belong to their
respective holders.
3Play™
TABL E OF CONTENTS
Table of Contents .............................................................................................................................. i
PART I (Getting Started) .....................................................................................................................1
1 About This Manual ......................................................................................................................3
2 Introduction ................................................................................................................................5
2.1 Overview ......................................................................................................................................... 5
2.2 Recording, Marking and Events ...................................................................................................... 6
2.2.1 What is an Event? .................................................................................................................... 6
2.3 NewTek 3Play Control Surface ........................................................................................................ 6
2.4 Startup Screen ................................................................................................................................ 7
2.5 Replay Desktop ............................................................................................................................... 8
2.6 Features .......................................................................................................................................... 9
2.6.1 Physical .................................................................................................................................. 10
2.6.2 Multi-Tier Failsafe ................................................................................................................. 10
2.6.3 Input, Output & Capture ....................................................................................................... 10
2.6.4 Monitoring ............................................................................................................................ 11
2.6.5 Video Processing ................................................................................................................... 12
2.6.6 Recording .............................................................................................................................. 12
2.6.7 Bookmarks ............................................................................................................................. 13
2.6.8 The CLIP LIST .......................................................................................................................... 13
2.6.9 The PLAY LIST ........................................................................................................................ 14
2.6.10 Program Transitions .............................................................................................................. 14
2.6.11 Text, Tags and More .............................................................................................................. 15
2.6.12 Publish ................................................................................................................................... 16
2.6.13 Macros ................................................................................................................................... 16
3 Setting Up ................................................................................................................................. 17
3.1 Command and Control .................................................................................................................. 17
3.2 Registration .................................................................................................................................. 18
3.2.1 Online Registration ................................................................................................................ 18
3.2.2 Registering by Telephone ...................................................................................................... 19
3.3 Input Connections ......................................................................................................................... 19
3.3.1 Connect A/V Sources ............................................................................................................. 19
3.3.2 Genlock Connection ............................................................................................................... 20
3.3.3 Timecode Connection ........................................................................................................... 20
i
3.4 Output Connections ...................................................................................................................... 20
3.4.1 A/V Output ............................................................................................................................ 20
3.4.2 Connecting Devices ............................................................................................................... 21
3.5 Starting a Session ......................................................................................................................... 21
3.5.1 The Home Page ..................................................................................................................... 22
3.5.2 The Session Page ................................................................................................................... 23
3.5.3 The Replay Desktop ............................................................................................................... 24
3.6 Configure Video Outputs .............................................................................................................. 24
3.6.1 Aux ......................................................................................................................................... 25
3.6.2 Multiview .............................................................................................................................. 25
3.7 Configure Genlock & Failsafe........................................................................................................ 25
3.8 Configure Video Input ................................................................................................................... 26
3.9 Configure Audio ............................................................................................................................ 27
3.10 Networking ............................................................................................................................... 27
4 Live Production Walkthrough .................................................................................................... 29
4.1 Creating a Session......................................................................................................................... 29
4.2 The Replay Desktop ...................................................................................................................... 31
4.3 Channel and Source Delegates ..................................................................................................... 31
4.4 Record ........................................................................................................................................... 32
4.5 Marking Events ............................................................................................................................. 33
4.5.1 Two –Button Marking ........................................................................................................... 33
4.5.2 One–Button Marking ............................................................................................................. 33
4.6 LIST Navigation ............................................................................................................................. 34
4.7 Memos and Tagging ..................................................................................................................... 35
4.7.1 Tagging Clips .......................................................................................................................... 37
4.8 SEARCH and GO TO ....................................................................................................................... 39
4.9 Trimming Events ........................................................................................................................... 40
4.10 Managing Events ...................................................................................................................... 41
4.11 Preparing a PLAY LIST ............................................................................................................... 41
4.11.1 Adding Clips ........................................................................................................................... 41
4.11.2 Editing and Playback ............................................................................................................. 41
4.11.3 Speed Control ........................................................................................................................ 42
4.12 Rendering a PLAY LIST ............................................................................................................... 42
ii
PART II (Reference) .......................................................................................................................... 43
5 The Startup Screen .................................................................................................................... 45
5.1 Introduction to Sessions................................................................................................................ 45
5.2 The Home Page ............................................................................................................................. 46
5.2.1 New (Session) ........................................................................................................................ 47
5.2.2 Open (Session)....................................................................................................................... 50
5.2.3 Shutdown .............................................................................................................................. 51
5.2.4 Utilities .................................................................................................................................. 51
5.2.5 Help ....................................................................................................................................... 53
5.2.6 Add-Ons ................................................................................................................................. 53
5.3 The Session Page .......................................................................................................................... 53
5.3.1 File Management .................................................................................................................. 54
6 The Replay Desktop ................................................................................................................... 57
6.1 Overview ....................................................................................................................................... 57
6.2 A Few Hints ................................................................................................................................... 58
6.3 Customizing the Replay Desktop .................................................................................................. 59
6.3.1 Rename ................................................................................................................................. 59
6.3.2 Multiple Displays and Monitoring ......................................................................................... 60
6.4 Dashboard Tools ........................................................................................................................... 60
6.4.1 Status Messages .................................................................................................................... 61
6.4.2 Menus (File, Options, Macros, and Workspaces) ................................................................. 61
6.5 Grab & Record .............................................................................................................................. 63
7 I/O Configuration ...................................................................................................................... 65
7.1 Output Configuration ................................................................................................................... 65
7.1.1 Channel A and B .................................................................................................................... 65
7.1.2 Genlock & Failsafe ................................................................................................................. 66
7.1.3 Multiview .............................................................................................................................. 69
7.2 Input Configuration ...................................................................................................................... 69
7.2.1 Input Settings ........................................................................................................................ 70
7.2.2 Color Balance ........................................................................................................................ 72
7.3 Timecode Configuration ............................................................................................................... 74
7.3.1 Production Time Display ....................................................................................................... 75
7.3.2 Time ....................................................................................................................................... 75
8 The Control Surface ................................................................................................................... 77
iii
8.1 Dual Channel Replay ..................................................................................................................... 77
8.1.1 Channel Delegates ................................................................................................................. 78
8.2 Transitions (TAKE | AUTO) ............................................................................................................ 79
8.3 Source Delegates .......................................................................................................................... 79
8.3.1 CLIP LIST ................................................................................................................................ 80
8.3.2 PLAY LIST ............................................................................................................................... 80
8.3.3 LIVE ........................................................................................................................................ 80
8.4 Independent States ....................................................................................................................... 81
8.4.1 LINK ....................................................................................................................................... 81
8.5 RECORD......................................................................................................................................... 82
8.6 Transport ...................................................................................................................................... 82
8.6.1 Previous ................................................................................................................................. 82
8.6.2 Stop ....................................................................................................................................... 82
8.6.3 Play ........................................................................................................................................ 83
8.6.4 Next ....................................................................................................................................... 83
8.6.5 FAST JOG ............................................................................................................................... 83
8.6.6 Jog Wheel .............................................................................................................................. 83
8.7 Play Speed (T-Bar Section) ............................................................................................................ 84
8.7.1 Illumination ........................................................................................................................... 84
8.8 List Selection tools ........................................................................................................................ 84
8.9 SHIFT ............................................................................................................................................. 85
8.10 SET | IN/OUT ............................................................................................................................. 85
8.10.1 SET | IN .................................................................................................................................. 85
8.10.2 SET | OUT .............................................................................................................................. 86
8.11 ANGLE ....................................................................................................................................... 86
8.12 BOOK MARK .............................................................................................................................. 87
8.13 UTILITY Buttons ......................................................................................................................... 87
8.13.1 CUT/COPY and PASTE ............................................................................................................ 87
8.13.2 PUBLISH ................................................................................................................................. 88
8.13.3 Add to PLAY LIST .................................................................................................................... 88
8.14 TAG, GO TO and SEARCH .......................................................................................................... 88
8.15 The Number Pad ....................................................................................................................... 89
8.15.1 ESC & ENTER .......................................................................................................................... 89
9 Monitoring ................................................................................................................................ 91
9.1 Overlay Options ............................................................................................................................ 91
iv
9.2 Input Monitors .............................................................................................................................. 92
9.2.1 Titlebar Features ................................................................................................................... 92
9.3 Channel Monitors (A, B) ................................................................................................................ 93
9.3.1 Channel Info .......................................................................................................................... 94
10 Recording and Storage ........................................................................................................... 95
10.1 Record Configuration ................................................................................................................ 95
10.2 Storage Volumes ....................................................................................................................... 95
10.3 Recording and the Desktop ....................................................................................................... 96
10.3.1 Record On/Off ....................................................................................................................... 96
10.4 Grab .......................................................................................................................................... 97
11 The CLIP LIST .......................................................................................................................... 99
11.1 Titlebar Tools ............................................................................................................................ 99
11.1.1 Tabs ....................................................................................................................................... 99
11.1.2 Tab Menu ............................................................................................................................ 100
11.1.3 Event Menu ......................................................................................................................... 100
11.1.4 Search Results ..................................................................................................................... 100
11.1.5 Add Media ........................................................................................................................... 100
11.2 Media Asset Management systems ........................................................................................ 104
11.3 CLIP LIST Table Features.......................................................................................................... 104
11.3.1 Event ID ............................................................................................................................... 105
11.3.2 In/Out Points, Duration (and Trimming) ............................................................................. 105
11.3.3 Memo Fields ........................................................................................................................ 106
11.3.4 Managing Events ................................................................................................................. 106
11.4 Playing Clips ............................................................................................................................ 107
11.5 Selection, Channels, & Display ................................................................................................ 107
11.5.1 Play Indicator ....................................................................................................................... 107
11.6 Add to PLAY LIST ..................................................................................................................... 108
12 The PLAY LIST....................................................................................................................... 109
12.1 Titlebar Tools .......................................................................................................................... 109
12.1.1 Tabs ..................................................................................................................................... 109
12.1.2 Tab Menu ............................................................................................................................ 109
12.1.3 Add Media & Export to Clip List .......................................................................................... 110
12.1.4 Music Tools.......................................................................................................................... 110
12.2 The PLAY LIST Table ................................................................................................................ 111
v
12.3 PLAY LIST Preparation ............................................................................................................. 112
12.3.1 Clip Selection ....................................................................................................................... 112
12.3.2 Changing a Clip .................................................................................................................... 113
12.3.3 Memo .................................................................................................................................. 113
12.3.4 Audio 1, 2 – 3, 4 ................................................................................................................... 113
12.3.5 In and Out Points (Trimming Clips) ..................................................................................... 114
12.3.6 Speed ................................................................................................................................... 114
12.3.7 Transition ............................................................................................................................ 114
12.4 Clip Context Menu ................................................................................................................... 115
12.5 Playback .................................................................................................................................. 115
12.6 PLAY LIST EDLs ........................................................................................................................ 116
13 TAGS, SEARCH, & More ........................................................................................................ 117
13.1 Overview ................................................................................................................................. 117
13.1.1 Tagging Workflow ............................................................................................................... 117
13.2 The TAGS Button ..................................................................................................................... 118
13.3 The TAGS Pane ........................................................................................................................ 118
13.3.1 Titlebar Tools ....................................................................................................................... 119
13.3.2 A Tagging Example .............................................................................................................. 120
13.3.3 SKIP ...................................................................................................................................... 122
13.3.4 Input Hinting ....................................................................................................................... 122
13.4 SEARCH.................................................................................................................................... 123
13.4.1 Dataview Entries ................................................................................................................. 123
13.4.2 Finding Matches .................................................................................................................. 124
13.4.3 GO TO .................................................................................................................................. 126
13.4.4 Search Results Tab .............................................................................................................. 126
13.5 Import Tags ............................................................................................................................. 127
13.5.1 CSV Example ........................................................................................................................ 128
14 Transitions ........................................................................................................................... 131
14.1 PLAY LIST Transitions .............................................................................................................. 131
14.2 Program-Preview Transitions .................................................................................................. 131
14.2.1 ‘Program Out’ ...................................................................................................................... 132
14.2.2 ‘Preview Out’ ....................................................................................................................... 132
14.2.3 AUTO Workflow .................................................................................................................. 132
14.3 Transition Effects .................................................................................................................... 132
14.3.1 Effect Settings ..................................................................................................................... 134
vi
15 DSKs (Overlays) .................................................................................................................... 137
15.1 Overview ................................................................................................................................. 137
15.1.1 Overlay Output A or B ......................................................................................................... 137
15.1.2 Overlay Graphics and Telestration ...................................................................................... 138
15.1.3 Officiating and Overlays ...................................................................................................... 138
15.2 Source Options ........................................................................................................................ 138
15.2.1 Cameras ............................................................................................................................... 139
15.2.2 Clip List Preview .................................................................................................................. 139
15.2.3 Buffers ................................................................................................................................. 139
15.2.4 NDI® Sources ....................................................................................................................... 141
15.3 Configuration .......................................................................................................................... 147
15.3.1 Position ................................................................................................................................ 148
15.3.2 Edges ................................................................................................................................... 148
16 Export Media ....................................................................................................................... 149
16.1 Overview ................................................................................................................................. 149
16.2 The Export Media Panel .......................................................................................................... 149
16.2.1 Social Media Sites ................................................................................................................ 151
16.2.2 Transcode ............................................................................................................................ 151
16.2.3 Watermarking ..................................................................................................................... 151
17 Macros and Automation ...................................................................................................... 153
17.1 System Macros ........................................................................................................................ 153
17.2 Session Macros........................................................................................................................ 154
17.3 Recording Macros ................................................................................................................... 154
17.3.1 Macro Playback Speed ........................................................................................................ 155
17.3.2 Managing Macros ................................................................................................................ 155
17.4 Shortcuts and Triggers ............................................................................................................ 156
17.4.1 Conflicted Shortcuts ............................................................................................................ 157
17.5 MIDI Controllers ...................................................................................................................... 158
17.6 NDI Connections ...................................................................................................................... 158
17.6.1 Example – Controlling 3Play ................................................................................................ 159
17.6.2 Remote Commands ............................................................................................................. 160
17.7 AMP Control ............................................................................................................................ 162
17.7.1 Configuring AMP ................................................................................................................. 163
17.7.2 AMP Shortcuts ..................................................................................................................... 163
17.8 GPI Controllers ........................................................................................................................ 164
vii
17.8.1 Configuration....................................................................................................................... 164
17.8.2 Listening for GPI Triggers .................................................................................................... 164
17.8.3 Sending GPI Commands ...................................................................................................... 165
17.9 Editing Macros ........................................................................................................................ 165
17.10 Automation and Integration ................................................................................................... 166
PART III (Appendices) ..................................................................................................................... 167
Appendix A How Do I … ? .......................................................................................................... 169
A.1 Connections ................................................................................................................................ 170
A.1.1 Connect cameras? ............................................................................................................... 170
A.1.2 Color correct mismatched cameras? .................................................................................. 171
A.1.3 Connect monitors? .............................................................................................................. 171
A.1.4 Improve the quality of Multiview output? .......................................................................... 172
A.1.5 Connect the Genlock Reference Signal? ............................................................................. 172
A.1.6 Connect the 3Play Control Surface?.................................................................................... 172
A.1.7 Connect An External Hard Drive? ........................................................................................ 173
A.1.8 Connect to a Network? ....................................................................................................... 173
A.1.9 Enable Termination for Video Inputs? ................................................................................ 173
A.2 Sessions ....................................................................................................................................... 173
A.2.1 What is a session? ............................................................................................................... 173
A.2.2 Delete a Session (and its Content)? .................................................................................... 173
A.2.3 Rename a Session ................................................................................................................ 173
A.2.4 Manage Selected Content inside a Session? ....................................................................... 174
A.3 Events and Recording ................................................................................................................. 174
A.3.1 Start recording? ................................................................................................................... 174
A.3.2 End recording? .................................................................................................................... 174
A.3.3 Mark an Event? ................................................................................................................... 174
A.3.4 Play a Clip? .......................................................................................................................... 175
A.3.5 Prepare a highlight reel? ..................................................................................................... 175
A.3.6 Select a different Play List clip for the same time period? ................................................. 176
A.4 Files ............................................................................................................................................. 176
A.4.1 Manage Files? ...................................................................................................................... 176
A.4.2 Import Media Files? ............................................................................................................ 176
A.4.3 Prepare clips for the PLAY LIST Using Apple® Final Cut Pro? .............................................. 176
A.4.4 Export files to an External Drive? ........................................................................................ 177
A.4.5 Import/Export Files Larger Than 4 Gigabytes? .................................................................... 177
A.4.6 Avoid the error “… copy this file without its properties?” .................................................. 177
A.5 Software, Maintenance and Updates ......................................................................................... 177
viii
A.5.1 Improve Performance? ....................................................................................................... 177
A.5.2 Resolve Serious Instability or Dropped frames? ................................................................. 178
A.5.3 Update NewTek 3Play software? ........................................................................................ 178
A.5.4 Install Virus Protection? ...................................................................................................... 178
A.5.5 Install My Favorite Software (or Codec)? ............................................................................ 178
A.5.6 Restore the System to Original ‘As-Shipped’ Condition? .................................................... 179
A.6 Registration And Tech Support ................................................................................................... 180
A.6.1 Register the NewTek 3Play system? ................................................................................... 180
A.6.2 Contact Technical Support? ................................................................................................ 180
A.6.3 Find Hardware/Firmware Revision Numbers? .................................................................... 181
A.7 Miscellaneous ............................................................................................................................. 181
A.7.1 Set up remote desktop control of 3Play? ........................................................................... 181
A.7.2 Deal With Clips or images That Seem Blurry? ..................................................................... 181
A.7.3 Access Windows™? ............................................................................................................. 181
A.7.4 Return to the Startup Screen from the Windows™ Desktop .............................................. 181
A.8 More Questions and Answers ..................................................................................................... 181
A.8.1 Why are my clip duration and Countdown times different? .............................................. 181
Appendix B Keystroke Shortcuts ................................................................................................ 183
B.1 Tables and Navigation ................................................................................................................ 183
B.2 Edit Lists/Text ............................................................................................................................. 183
B.3 Marking ...................................................................................................................................... 184
B.4 Searching .................................................................................................................................... 184
B.5 Control ........................................................................................................................................ 184
Appendix C Reliability Testing ................................................................................................... 185
Index ............................................................................................................................................. 187
Credits ........................................................................................................................................... 191
ix
PART I (GETTING STARTED)
Introducing NewTek 3Play 3P1™ – connections and registration, a top-level overview of primary features,
and a hands-on tour to get you started.
Page | 1
Hate reading manuals? If so, you are part of the majority. Estimates are
that between 60 and 97% of the human race concur. Most prefer to jump
right in, maybe asking a friend for occasional help – and who can blame
them?
This manual attempts to tell you what you need to know in a friendly,
concise way, while also providing a deeper reference section you can turn
to when you really need specifics.
1 AB OUT T HIS MAN UAL
Even if you hate reading, please take a moment to peruse at least this section, which explains the manual’s
organization. You may find you can escape with a minimum of reading. (Or, if you are a devout reader,
you can be the hero others turn to for expert advice.)
Part I – Getting Started: introduction to NewTek 3Play 3P1 – connecting devices (cameras,
monitors, etc.) and registration, ending up with the Live Production Walkthrough – a brisk jog
through fundamentals, about 16 pages (if you’re a quick study, this may provide all you need).
Part II – Reference: chapters in this section cover every arcane detail related to using 3Play (for
those who need it, and those who just like to know everything).
Part III – Appendices: leads off with a handy section titled “How do I …?“, a helpful question and
answer section with its own brief index. When you have a specific need, you may well find a quick
answer here, along with cross references to more detailed information when appropriate.
Appendix B lists shortcut keys. Part III is also home to a comprehensive keyword index.
Page | 3
Thank you for purchasing this NewTek 3Play®. This system is a member of
the NewTek family of live video production systems and software, and
enjoys a proud heritage. A bona fide video pioneer, NewTek is justifiably
proud of its record of innovation, ongoing commitment to excellence and
superb product support.
This chapter provides a quick tour of the major components of your
NewTek 3Play system.
2 IN TRODUCTION
2.1 OVERVIEW
NewTek 3Play® is a multi-channel high
definition video device supporting
simultaneous recording, display and
smooth slow motion replay of as many as
eight audio and video sources .
3Play’s outputs include both traditional
HD-SDI and industry leading NDI™
(Network Device Interface) IP output for two fully independent video channels (designated Channels A
and B) to external video systems.
Alternatively, the two primary outputs support a ‘video switcher style’ program-preview workflow,
complete with transitions, and even overlays. Too, 3Play supports selectively publishing data to internal
and external file storage, ftp and social media platforms on the fly.
Realtime A/V output at a given moment may consist of any combination of the following:
I. Live video – direct pass-through of an input source
II. Delayed video – output running somewhat behind live input
III. CLIP LIST – playback of a timed segments of captured (or imported) media
IV. PLAY LIST – playback of a prepared playlist that may include clips or other imported media and
transitions.
Hint: Outputting Live, Delayed, CLIP or Play List sources does not interrupt capture of live sources.
Delayed, CLIP LIST and PLAY LIST video streams can also be played back at variable speeds. 3PLAY 3P1
provides output in popular up to 1080/p60, along with 720p and SD video formats.
Page | 5
2.2 RE CORDING , MAR KING AND EVENTS
Recording is intrinsic to NewTek 3Play. Pressing REC on the Control Surface (or clicking the Record button
in the titlebar on the Replay Desktop) activates continuous capture of all configured sources.
Typically, each recorded stream comprises output from a different camera angle. (Input sources not
configured for recording can be viewed as reference and output live, but are not available for replay.)
Note: When timecode for a session being recorded reaches 24:00:00.00, a new recording is automatically
started. A few frames are lost in this process. Use the ‘Subtract 12 hours; feature in Timecode
Configuration to avoid problems when necessary – see Section 7.3.
2.2.1 WHAT IS AN EVE NT?
The 3Play operator uses the supplied external Control Surface to mark events. Each event entry appears
in the CLIP LIST module on the Replay Desktop as a single row of clips, and is identified in the left-most
column of the row by an Event ID number.
Events can be thought of as timed segments of the recorded video, created by setting In and Out points
as a live production progresses. Newly-marked events are successively added to the CLIP LIST for
convenient recall. The (In and Out) timecode values for an event are digital pointers identifying the first
and last frames of a specific portion of the recorded footage.
Thus an event is not merely a clip. Think of it as a synchronized ‘time slice’ across all recorded video
streams (or ‘angles’, if you like). You can recall and display any clip from an event instantly. This involves
sending the stream from a specific camera to one of the system outputs.
Tip: Two different clips from one or more events can be displayed simultaneously using the two outputs.
3Play normally captures a complete, uninterrupted record of your production. The events listed in the
CLIP LIST simply isolate segments in this vast volume of stored information. Add and remove events freely
with no fear of losing recorded material. You can even add, remove or reorganize events during recording,
or long after your session ends.
2.3 NEWTEK 3PLAY CONT ROL S URFACE
A dedicated NewTek 3Play external Control Surface (Figure 1) provides primary operational control – see
Chapter 8. (Text editing and other supplementary control is supported using the keyboard.)
Page | 6
Figure 1
Note: If the Control Surface is not available for any reason, its core functions can be accessed using
keyboard shortcuts.
2.4 STARTUP SCREEN
The Startup Screen appears when you power up your NewTek 3Play. This area offers initial configuration
options along with system management tools.
Figure 2
The Home page of the Startup Screen (Figure 2 allows you to define and open sessions, essentially custom
presets for individual productions or other purposes. If you re-open a session on some later occasion, all
of its assets and settings are remembered.
After creating a session (or opening an existing one), you are taken to the Sessions page. Here you can
launch the Replay Desktop, or perhaps choose to Import Media for your session.
Page | 7
Monitoring & Control
Clip List
Play
Titlebar
Tags
2.5 RE PLAY DESKTOP
3Play’s live production features are all available from its unique Replay Desktop. The various features,
controls and modules on the Replay Desktop are essentially laid out in horizontal bands, as seen below.
Figure 3
The uppermost area is the Dashboard, which displays important session information, and
provides quick access to key features, including Record, Grab, and various menus.
Just below the titlebar are desktop monitors showing 3Play’s video input and output streams. This
region of the Replay Desktop also provides some very special features just below the primary
output monitors as follows:
Figure 4
List
o A Channel Info pane immediately beneath each output monitor lists important data about
the video source displayed on that channel (Figure 4).
Page | 8
Figure 5
o Some very important features occupy prime visual real estate in small panes just beneath
the Channel Info displays.
A large, high-visibility field at left in this zone is referred to as the FastClip toolbar (Figure 5).
o Selecting a data field in the CLIP LIST or PLAY LIST snaps its content (whether a Memo
entry, Event ID, or time value) into the dataview window in this pane. This value can then
be modified by keyboard or Control Surface operations.
o Dataview content can also be used as criteria for the nearby Go To and Search features
(and corresponding Control Surface buttons).
Figure 6
o Also beneath the monitors are and Transport (Play, Stop, etc.) and Transition controls
(Figure 6).
The spreadsheet-like CLIP LIST is centrally located (Figure 3). Its multiple tabs (including the Search
results tab) and columns help you identify, locate, manage and replay the huge amount of audiovisual data 3Play captures.
Just below is the PLAY LIST (Figure 3). Here you can create and control more complex sequences
such as highlight reels. These can include imported graphic, animation and video elements, as
well as music and full color Animation Store transitions.
Hint: The optional Single Pane mode combines the CLIP LIST and PLAY LIST tabs in one pane capable of
displaying many more events at once (see Section 6.4.2).
The Tags pane at the very bottom of the Replay Desktop (Figure 3) makes entering values and
comments splendidly quick and convenient.
2.6 FEATURES
Here’s a brief overview of just some of 3Play’s key features:
Page | 9
2.6.1 PHYSICA L
Rugged 2RU or 3RU rack-mount case ensures robust and reliable performance in fixed or mobile
installations.
The 3RU model 3Play 3P1 also provides redundant power supplies.
Massive storage capacity (e.g., a 3TB drive holds approximately 75 hours of 1080i).
2.6.2 MULTI -TIER F AILSA FE
3Play’s ‘Always on Air’ features provide multi-tiered redundant failsafe mechanisms in both hardware and
software. To name just a few:
Multiple software failsafe systems continually monitor and safeguard the live performance. Any
recoverable software error conditions are quickly and unobtrusively dealt with.
When enabled, video pass-through (see Section 7.1.2) ensures that as long there is AC power,
audio and video from the highest numbered input is routed to Output 1 in a case of catastrophic
software condition.
Comprehensive integrated system restore feature. Operators can quickly and easily restore to
factory defaults, or create a custom restore image on another drive and either restore from that
drive or use the backup drive to boot from if a complete hard drive failure ever occurs.
2.6.3 INPUT, OUTPUT & CAPTURE
All audio and video, monitoring and network connectors are easily accessible from the rear for
convenient installation in industry standard 19” rack-mount configurations. (Note, some 3Play
Mini connections are front mounted).
Most audio and video connectors are industry standard (XLR or BNC as appropriate), ensuring
broad compatibility and secure, locked connections. (Mini connectors vary).
Supply external audio via analog, SDI Embedded or NDI™ IP connection.
Balanced XLR and ¼” (6.35mm) audio connectors where supplied.
Multiple simultaneous SDI and analog output connections.
2RU – record up to four live video sources to internal or external media.
3RU
o Record from four video sources to redundant media
o Or record up to eight sources (without redundancy).
Capture and play back 16:9 and 4:3 formats in both HD and SD sessions.
Output HD sessions as SD (4:3 or 16:9) and HD simultaneously from HD sessions.
Play list module supports inserting pre-recorded video, sound and imagery into your live
productions.
Send both primary outputs (A and B) across your network to any NewTek or other production
system, software or device supporting NDI, leaving the SDI outputs free for other purposes.
Page | 10
Use one SDI output for program output, another as preview, and switch sources with colorful
Animation Store transitions.
Display highlight reels with colorful transitions, bumpers and audio bed using either output
channel.
Send supplemental video output to projection systems or secondary monitors at session
resolutions up to 1920x1080/p60.
2.6.4 MONITOR ING
Figure 7
By default, the Replay Desktop includes two large output monitors at right, labeled A and B. The area at
left shows input monitors as appropriate for the number of sources you have configured for recording.
For example, four input monitor viewports are displayed when operating in 4 channel mode.
Tip: The display configuration for 3Play’s secondary Multiview output is governed by controls found in
the Output Configuration panel.
CHANNEL INFO AND CONTROLS
The region of the Replay Desktop just below the primary output monitors also provides some very special
features. First, data pertinent to the current video source for each output is displayed in a Channel Info
area immediately below (Figure 8) the corresponding viewport.
Figure 8
Tip: Normally, the selected Channel Delegate button on the Control Surface determines which channel –
A or B – CS operations are currently governing. Note that you can also delegate a channel using the
mouse, by clicking the Channel Info area beneath either the A or B monitor.
A control group located beneath the output monitors hosts Transition, Transport (Play, Stop, etc.) and
DSK (Downstream Key, or ‘overlay’) controls.
Page | 11
FASTCLIP TOOLS
Figure 9
You’ll find additional and very important features occupying prime visual real estate just beneath the
monitor area (Figure 5). A large, high-visibility window at left in this zone is referred to as the FastClip
dataview.
Selecting a data field in the CLIP LIST or PLAY LIST snaps its content (whether a Memo entry, Event ID, or
time value) into the dataview. This value can then be modified by keyboard or Control Surface operations.
Keyboard and Control Surface entries can also be used as criteria for the nearby Go To and Search features
(and corresponding Control Surface buttons).
MULTIVIEW
3Play’s Multiview output commonly serves supplemental control room monitoring needs. External
Multiview Workspaces offer many alternatives, including numerous multi-bridge layouts, overlays and
Event Clocks. The Multiview layout output is configured using the Workspaces menu in the Dashboard at
the top of the Desktop (see Section 6.4.2 for a more thorough discussion).
2.6.5 VIDEO P ROCES SING
Input Proc Amps allow you to adjust the video signal to harmonize color balance for all sources.
Separate controls are provided for Brightness, Contrast, Hue and Saturation for each video source,
along with White Balance and U and V Offset.
2.6.6 RECORDING
Apart from live throughput, virtually all replay output features depends on recorded data.
Figure 10
The Record button is located in the titlebar above the output monitors.
Valuable information about the recording and remaining space is displayed nearby.
Recording can also be enabled from the NewTek 3Play Control Surface.
Page | 12
2.6.7 BOOKMAR KS
3Play’s timecode bookmark system is almost too easy to use. There are a maximum of ten bookmarks.
Simply press BOOK MARK on the CS to set bookmarks in your footage (REC must be enabled). Press SHIFT
+ BOOK MARK repeatedly to jump sequentially back through the markers you’ve set (3Play will switch to
Delayed playback mode).
2.6.8 THE CLIP LIST
Figure 11
Synchronized segments of the recorded data from all cameras are identified as individual events by setting
in and out points. Each marked event occupies one row in the spreadsheet-like CLIP LIST. Events can be
rearranged and re-trimmed in the CLIP LIST.
The different sources (or ‘angles’) available for each event (see Section 2.2.1) are presented as labeled
columns (Figure 12).
Figure 12
Small clip monitors above each column (Figure 13) make it easy to follow the action and select the angle
offering the best view of events.
Page | 13
Figure 15
Figure 13
The ‘angle’ columns beneath are actually Memo columns, and allow you to enter comments, tags, and
other metadata that, with the Search feature, can help you quickly locate specific views for playback,
inclusion in playlists, etc.
The CLIP LIST offers an unlimited number of tabbed pages to help you manage your recorded content. In
addition, the CLIP LIST supports the import of media clips as well as still images for various purposes (the
PLAY LIST also supports imported files).
2.6.9 THE PLAY L IST
Figure 14
Individual clips from events appearing in the CLIP LIST can be added to the PLAY LIST pane below (as can
other items imported using the Add Media button).
The PLAY LIST plays all entries in sequence from top to bottom, with optional transitions between clips.
Like the CLIP LIST, the PLAY LIST pane offers multiple tabbed pages, supports clip re-ordering, comments,
trimming, and numerous other features.
2.6.10 PROGR AM TR ANSITIO NS
We mentioned Transitions earlier (under
Monitoring), but 3Play’s powerful transition system
merits a heading of its own.
Page | 14
Figure 16
3Play output can employ spectacular high-end transitions,
including Animation Store effects that include full color
embedded overlays, in several ways.
PLAY LIST compositions, such as highlight reels, support
transitions between clips, each with adjustable timing and
even accompanying transitional audio effects. Unlike many
replay systems, 3Play does not tie up two different outputs
to do this.
Further, 3Play even supports a ‘program-preview’, or ‘video switcher’ style workflow. The latter approach
allows you use 3Play’s powerful effects system to transition between the sources displayed on Outputs A
and B (see Chapter 14, Transitions).
In this (program-preview) scenario, Channel B stands in for the traditional program output, while Channel
A serves as preview. This enables some unique production possibilities – such as an Auto between two
PLAY LIST compositions during playback – something often only possible when system architecture
includes a downstream switcher.
2.6.11 TEXT, TAGS AND MORE
Figure 17
A Tags bar is situated at the bottom of the Replay Desktop (Figure 17). Dragging this divider bar upward
reveals tabbed panes containing rows of numbered cells. Text ‘tags’ (e.g., player names, notable play
types, adjectives, etc.) entered into these cells can be quickly inserted into Memo fields for selected clips,
and can even be used as Search criteria.
Figure 18
The Tags module inserts its output into the easily legible Text Box, discussed earlier (Figure 9), just like
other textual input. (All text input is displayed in this box, whether it originates from the number pad on
the Control Surface, or from the keyboard.)
Tip: When the TAG button on the Control Surface is lit, number pad entries are automatically translated
to the corresponding tag entries. For example, in Figure 18, the Tags pane lists player names. Typing
“01” on the pad sends “Jones” to the Text Box. Pressing Enter then pushes this entry into the Memo field
for the selected clip(s).
Page | 15
2.6.12 PUBLI SH
Though a relative newcomer, social media has carved an important niche for itself in the realms of video
production and broadcasting. 3Play can publish both still images and trimmed, commented clips from
CLIP LIST or PLAY LIST pages to popular public sites, along with traditional production storage. Media can
even be published while events are still underway, while live capture continues uninterrupted.
2.6.13 MACRO S
Record simple or complex combinations of operations as macros, then assign these to internal and
external trigger events to be executed at will. 3Play’s Macro Configuration panel provides numerous
management features, such as folders, rename, clone, and hotkey and control panel assignment, as well
as Import and Export (share macros with other 3Play users). Macros can be flexibly stored as part of a
session or as part of the global macro configuration available in all sessions. You can also open macros in
the integrated editor and tweak them to perfection.
Page | 16
Loading...