Vintec mVRC User Manual

User Guide

Part No. V4063-0010

EN

www.vinten.com

Robotic Control System

Copyright © 2017

All rights reserved.

Original Instructions: English

All rights reserved throughout the world. No part of this publication may be stored in a retrieval
system, transmitted, copied or reproduced in any way, including, but not limited to, photocopy,
photograph, magnetic or other record without the prior agreement and permission in writing of the
Vitec Group Plc.

Disclaimer

The information contained in this publication is believed to be correct at the time of printing. Vitec

Videocom Ltd reserves the right to make changes to the information or specications without

obligation to notify any person of such revision or changes. Changes will be incorporated in new
versions of the publication.

We are making every effort to ensure that our publications are updated on a regular basis

to reect changes to product specications and features. Should this publication not contain

information on the core functionality of your product, please let us know. You may be able to
access the latest revision of this publication from our website.

Vitec Videocom Ltd reserves the right to make changes to product design and functionality without

notication.

Trademarks

All product trademarks and registered trademarks are the property of The Vitec Group Plc.

All other trademarks and registered trademarks are the property of their respective companies.

Published by:

Vitec Videocom Ltd

Email: [e-mail]

1

Contents

Read Me First

Getting Started2

1

Setting up a Basic μVRC System

3

4

5

6

7

Using the μVRC

Running a Show With the μVRC

μVRC Conguration

Technical Specications

Important Safety Information 2

About this User Guide 3

Box Contents 4

μVRC Computer Components and Connections 5

Joystick Panel Controls and Connections 6

Upgrade Options 7

Connecting the μVRC 8

Starting the μVRC 9

Adding Robotic Camera Units to the System 10

Using the Joystick Panel 12

Using the Touch-Screen Display Interface 14

Working with Shots and Shows 20

Cueing, Trimming and Tracking Shots 24

User Preferences 26

Conguration Management 31

Sort Cameras 33

About Screen and License Management 34

Device Conguration 35

CCU Interfaces 38

CCU Database 41

44

2

1

Read Me First

Important information on the safe installation and operation of this product. Read this

information before operating the product. For your personal safety, read these instructions.
Do not operate the product if you do not understand how to use it safely. Save these
instructions for future reference.

Warning Symbols Used in these Instructions

Safety cautions are included in these instructions. These safety instructions must be followed to

avoid possible personal injury and avoid possible damage to the product.

!

WARNING!

Where there is a risk of personal injury or injury to others, comments appear
supported by the warning triangle symbol.
Where there is a risk of damage to the product, associated equipment, process or
surroundings, comments appear supported by the word ‘CAUTION’.

ELECTRIC SHOCK

Where there is a risk of electric shock, comments appear supported by the hazardous
voltage warning triangle.

WARNING! Risk of electric shock. Always disconnect and isolate the product from
the power supply before attempting any servicing or removing the covers. Always check
cables for signs of damage. Damaged cables can cause personal injury and/or damage
the equipment. It is the responsibility of the local organisation to ensure that the product
is periodically checked for electrical safety in accordance with local regulations.

!

CAUTION! This product must be connected to a power supply of the same voltage (V)

and current (A) as indicated on the product. Refer to the technical specications for the

product. Using alternative power sources will invalidate the system EMC liability. All
connections to other devices must be made using shielded cables.

Intended Use

The μVRC robotic control system is designed to control compatible robotic camera equipment and

accessories. Camera operators can remotely control movements of axes and other functions.

The μVRC is designed for use in TV studios and other applications including houses of worship,

conference facilities and auditoriums.

Electrical Connection

Operating Environment

!

WARNING! Slots and openings are intended for ventilation purposes to ensure reliable

operation of the product and protect it from overheating. Do not block or cover any
slots and openings. Protect the product from water, moisture and dust. The presence of
electricity near water can be dangerous.

Important Safety Information

3

Mounting and Installation

!

WARNING! Always ensure that all power and auxiliary communications cables are routed
so that they do not present any danger to personnel. Take care when routing cables in
areas where robotic equipment is in use.

Cleaning

WARNING! Risk of electric shock. Always disconnect and isolate the product from the
power supply before cleaning. Do not use solvent or oil-based cleaners, abrasives or wire
brushes. Clean with a dry lint free cloth.

Maintenance

!

WARNING! The tting of non-approved parts or accessories, or the carrying out of non-

approved alterations or servicing can be dangerous and could affect the safety of the
product. It may also invalidate the terms and conditions of the product warranty.

Safety when Working with Robotic Equipment

In normal operation remote-controlled equipment can move suddenly and without warning. Since

audible warnings are not suitable for use within the studio environment, it is recommended that
only trained personnel be allowed to work in the active areas where remote controlled robotic
equipment is located.

The safe operating zone is a minimum of 1 m (3 ft).

Safety Notes for Operators

Operators must familiarise themselves with the working footprint of the robotic equipment,

including all installed payload items (lens, zoom and focus controls, viewnder, prompter, etc.) to

prevent inadvertent collisions or injury to personnel.

If personnel are too close to robotic equipment that is about to move, the operator should prevent
the motion from starting or stop the motion if it has started.

We strongly recommend that the operator veries visually that the active area is clear of hazards

and personnel, both before and during remote operation.

This user guide covers the installation, conguration and operation of the μVRC robotic control

system.

In this user guide, the following symbols are used to indicate useful or important information:

About this User Guide

NOTE: Gives additional important information about the product.

TIP: Gives extra advice and ways to perform a particular step or procedure.

4

2

Getting Started

Box Contents

1 μVRC computer

2 Joystick panel

3 μVRC power supply

NI USB connecting cable

NI Power cable (x3)

NI User guide

1

2

3

NI - Not Illustrated

5

μVRC Computer Components and Connections

1 Touch-screen interface

2 Adjustable stand

3 Power button

4 Power socket

5 Network port

6 USB3 ports

7 VESA mounting holes (X4)*

8 USB 2 ports

4

1

3

2

5

6 6

7

* For more information on the VESA mount, see Technical Specications on page 44.

8

6

Joystick Panel Controls and Connections

1 Main joystick control

2 Shot control keys

3 Focus controls

4 Keys not currently used

5 Hand rest pad

6 Camera selection keys

7 USB port

1

2

3

4

5

6

7

7

Upgrade Options

The standard μVRC has built-in functions to set up and run a basic robotic camera system,

consisting of up to four Vantage heads and cameras.

Upgrade licenses are available for purchase to expand the system or functions. If additional

licenses are purchased to upgrade the μVRC, a license key is issued. The license key must be
applied in the License Management window to activate the new features. For more information,

see About Screen and License Management on page 34.

μVRC Plus Four V4063-8001

Up to eight Vantage heads can be controlled.

μVRC Total Control V4063-8002

Any number of Vantage heads can be controlled.

PTZ Control V4063-8003

Control a single PTZ camera (Sony or Panasonic).

ICE/Fusion V4063-8004

Adds control of Vinten ICE and Fusion robotics.

Hexagon V4063-8005

Adds control of Vinten Hexagon robotics.

CCU Control
(broadcast cameras)

V4063-8006

Add paint/shading control for a single broadcast camera (Sony).

Automation Interface V4063-8007

Allows a third party control system to integrate with the µVRC.

Shot Thumbnails V4063-8009

Adds support for an external video capture interface to allow
shots to display thumbnails from live video.

Distributed network
control, database
replication and
backup

V4063-8008

Allows multiple µVRC to share control. Also allows interaction
with HD-VRCs.

8

Connecting the μVRC

System and Power Connections

The μVRC system is easily connected together. Robotic cameras are connected using standard

Ethernet connections. Use a powered Ethernet switch to expand the number of connections
available to suit your system requirements. The control panel is connected and powered with the

supplied USB lead.

The μVRC computer connections are located on the rear of the product. See the section μVRC

Computer Components and Connections on page 5.

For more information on connecting up robotic cameras and components, refer to the

documentation supplied with the products.

Ethernet

USB

Connections

µVRC Computer

Ethernet Switch

PTZ Heads

Vantage Heads

Joystick Panel

µVRC Power Supply

19 VDC Power

* To connect PTZ heads, an additional license is required. For more information see Upgrade
Options on page 7.

9

Starting the μVRC

Powering Up

When all connections in the μVRC system have been made, the μVRC computer can be powered

up.

To power up, depress the power button recessed on the rear edge of the case.

Starting the μVRC Application

When the μVRC computer has booted up, double tap on

the Fusion Client icon.

If only one user-name is set up on the system with no

password set, the μVRC automatically logs in.

If multiple user-names have already been set up, select

the appropriate name in the User Selection window.

Enter the password, if one has been set.

10

3

Adding Robotic Camera Units to the System

Conguration Management Tool

The Conguration Management Tool allows you to add any connected hardware to the μVRC

system. You can build each individual robotic camera unit by adding the hardware components

(robotic head, camera, lens, etc) tted.

Setting up a Basic μVRC System

When the μVRC system has been powered up and the application has started, you can begin
to congure and control the connected robotic cameras. Basic conguration is described in this

chapter to get you up and running quickly.

If any addition licenses have been purchased, they should be applied to the μVRC system during
set up. For more information see About Screen and License Management on page 34.

• If you are unfamiliar with the μVRC interface, see Using the μVRC on page 12

• To further set up and rene the μVRC system, see Configuration Management
on page 31

The Conguration Management Tool has built-in intelligence to identify compatible

and incompatible hardware components being added to a robotic camera unit.

From the main μVRC workspace tap the Menu > Conguration Management buttons to open
the Conguration Management Tool window.

1

2

3

1 Proles List - Available robotic heads, cameras and other components

2 Camera Storage Grid - Cells for storing robotic camera units

3 Camera Properties - Conguration section for robotic cameras and hardware

11

Adding a Robotic Head and Camera or PTZ Camera

1. Select the appropriate robotic head

or PTZ camera (example shown is a

Vantage Head) from the Proles List*.

2. Drag the selected device into an empty

cell on the Camera Storage Grid.

3. In the Camera Properties section,

enter a name for the new camera
(example shown is Vantage 1) and its
network IP address to connect it to the

μVRC system.

4. If a Vantage head is selected, drag the camera type

tted from the Proles List into the same cell as the

robotic head.

5. When all the cameras and components have been

added to the Camera Storage Grid, tap the Apply
Changes button.

6. Tap the OK button to allow the software to restart.

When the μVRC restarts, added cameras are available for selection from the Camera selection
and Status Bar.

Cameras and components can be removed from the μVRC system by returning to the
Conguration Management Tool and tapping the red cross on a camera or component.

All shots stored for the camera will also be deleted.

*Products available for selection appear in white text. Products in black text require
an additional license to be purchased and applied. For more information see

Upgrade Options on page 7.

If the ! icon is still displayed on a camera or component, something has not yet

been congured (such as a missing protocol, missing IP address, etc.). Conguration

must be completed for the camera and components to fully function.

12

4

The μVRC user interface consists of a joystick panel and a PC workstation with integral touch-

screen display, through which all functions and operations can be utilised.

Using the Joystick Panel

The joystick panel enables you to select and control connected robotic cameras. Additional keys
are available to select cameras and other useful functions.

Using the μVRC

Joystick Camera Controls

The joystick panel provides the best way to smoothly control camera movement and adjustments.

Pan axis control

Tilt axis control

Zoom control

Course focus control

Fine focus control

Control functions can be reversed in the μVRC conguration.

13

Joystick Panel Keys

The joystick panel has a selection of useful short cut keys which duplicate features and functions
available on the touch-screen display. The keys provide quick access to functions when the
operator is using the joystick to control cameras.

1 Camera shot control keys (fade/stop/cut)

2 Function keys (not currently used)

3 Numeric keypad (not currently used)

4 Camera selection keys*

5 X4 key (zoom proportional)

6 Camera selection shift key* (provides access to cameras 9 to 16)

*The number of cameras available for selection is dependent on the system license.

14

Using the Touch-Screen Display Interface

The μVRC touch-screen display is the primary interface with the system, enabling you to select

cameras and setup, store, manage and select shots for shows.

The main μVRC workspace window provides instant access to functions required to operate the

remote camera control system.

The window comprises:

1

Stored Shot Grid - This grid of cells is used to display the shots that have been created

and stored for each camera in the current show, or the shots stored for the currently

selected camera depending on the setting of the Per Camera conguration option.

2

Camera selection and Status Bar - The robotic cameras can be selected from this

workspace bar or the control panel.

3 Toolbar containing function and menu buttons

1

2
3

Stored Shot Grid

The grid size (number of shots that are visible on a single page can be selected using the Grid

Size option on the Conguration Screen – see Grid Display Options on page 26. Depending

on the number of shots stored in the current show and the grid size selected, the shots may span
several pages.

1 Camera name

2 Shot time

3 Shot name

1

2

3

15

Shot Status Colour codes

The background of the shots stored in the grid are colour coded to indicate the shot status.

Shot Colour Description

A Red Indicates that the camera is moving (via Cut or Fade) to the shot.

B Green

Indicates that the shot is cued and the camera will move to this

shot when Cut or Fade is selected.

C Dark Blue

Indicates that the camera is exactly on shot as stored in the show

le.

D Light Blue

Indicates that the camera has been trimmed off the shot stored in

the show le.

F Grey Indicates shots that are available for selection.

A

B C D

E

Camera Selection Status Bar

Available robotic cameras can be selected from this bar. The colour of the camera button indicates
the current status of the camera.

Frame Colour Description

A Green Camera is currently selected and controlled by the control panel.

B White Camera is available for immediate selection and control.

C Black Camera is ofine and unavailable.

E Grey

Camera needs to be enabled. Tap the Opts button and select
Enable from the Device Control eld.

A

B C D

When selected, any camera can be controlled from the joystick control
panel, or using the virtual joystick and controls on the touch screen.

16

Function and Menu Buttons

The toolbar containing the function and menu buttons is displayed at the bottom of the workspace.

The buttons and menus enable you to create and manage shots and shows, and congure the
μVRC system.

Button Function Description

Menu

Displays the toolbar menu enabling you to: manage shows,

congure the system and preferences.

Edit

Displays the edit menu enabling you to: rename a shot,
delete a shot, edit the shot time, replace a stored shot with
a new one and move shots to different positions in the grid.

Stop Stops all camera movement during a cut or fade operation.

Cut

Cuts from the current shot(s) to the selected shot(s) as fast
as possible. This function can be latched to immediately cut
to a shot when it is selected. Cut is not suitable for on-air
moves.

Fade

Fades from the current shot to the selected shot in the time

duration stored in the shot. This function can be latched to
immediately fade to a shot when it is selected.

Store

Stores the shot on the currently selected camera unit into

the selected cell in the grid. A show must be opened to store
shots.

Focus

Zooms the lens of the current on-shot camera unit
(thumbnail coloured dark blue) all the way in tight and

displays the Focus menu.

Sequence

Available for Vinten Hexagon track only, when the Hexagon
license upgrade has been purchased and applied.

Virtual

Stick

Displays the Virtual Joystick window, providing a method of
controlling cameras from the touch screen when the control
panel is not available.

Page Up/
Down

Enables you to scroll up and down through pages of
multiple stored shots.

Options

Displays the Options menu which enables you to: Enable

cameras; turn X4 mode on/off; select CCU menus for
compatible cameras and device conguration. Options are

for the currently selected device and not visible if no camera
is selected.

17

Toolbar Menu

Tap Menu to display the toolbar menu.

Menu Option Description

Show

Management

Displays the Show Management functions, enabling you to create, load, list
and delete shows - see Show management on page 20.

Conguration
Management

Displays the Conguration Management screen, enabling you to congure the

system, manage users and licenses - see Conguration Management on
page 31.

User
Preferences

Displays the User Preferences screen, enabling you to congure: editing grid
display options, joystick settings, etc. See - User Preferences on page 26.

Sort Cameras

Displays the Sort Cameras screen, where the order cameras appear on the
Camera Selection and Status bar can be changed. See Sort Cameras on

page 33

About

Displays the About screen with software and license information. Licenses

are also updated and applied here. See About Screen and License

Management on page 34.

Exit Exits the μVRC application.

Return Closes the menu.

Edit menu

Tap Edit to display the Edit menu. This has options that let you rename shots, modify the fade
time, delete shots, re-save a shot or swap shot positions on the grid. Tap Return to exit from the
Edit menu. For more information – see Managing Shots on page 22.

After using Stop to halt a robotic transition, you can:

• Complete that move by selecting the shot again and tapping Fade or Cut.

• Make another move, by selecting the required shot and tapping Fade or Cut.

Stop Button

The stop button is used to halt the movement of a camera during a fade or cut to a stored shot.

There are two stopping options selectable in the User Preferences screen:

• The standard stop option provides a ‘gentle’ synchronised stop which halts robotic camera
movement in approximately two seconds - recommended for on-air use.

• The other stop option provides a ‘fast’ abrupt stop that is not synchronised and may produce

a small amount of instability on the camera, and therefore should not be used on air. See ­Camera Control on page 28.

18

Store Button

Tapping the Store button will save the current position of the selected camera as a shot in the

current show for future use. You can select where the shot is stored in the stored shot grid.

Focus Button

When you are on shot (stored shot coloured dark blue), tapping the Focus button will zoom the

lens all the way in tight. You can then:

1. Use pan and tilt, if necessary, to frame the person or object that you want to set focus on.

2. Adjust the focus.

3. Select one of the Focus Menu options described below.

Focus Menu

Option

Description

Keep Camera

After the focus has been adjusted, tap Keep Camera to return the camera
to the shot’s original pan, tilt and zoom settings and keep the adjusted focus
setting. The shot stored in the show database is not updated, so the next time
you recall the shot it will have the original focus, not the adjusted focus.

Keep Shot

After the focus has been adjusted, tap Keep Shot to return the camera to the
shot’s original pan, tilt and zoom settings, keep the adjusted focus setting and
store the adjusted focus in the show database. The next time you recall the
shot it will have the adjusted focus.

Cancel

Tap Cancel to abandon the adjusted focus setting and return the camera to the
shot’s original pan, tilt, zoom and focus settings.

Return

Tap Return to return to the workspace leaving the lens zoomed in tight and
with pan, tilt and focus as you left them.

A show must be created and opened to store shots. For more information

see Show management on page 20.

Cut and Fade Buttons

After a shot is selected on the touch-screen, the Cut and Fade buttons become available to move

the camera from the current shot to the selected shot.

Latching

If latched Cut or Fade is selected (tap Cut or Fade before selecting a shot), the camera will
automatically move to a new shot as soon as it is selected on the touch screen, with no need to
tap the buttons.

19

Virtual Joystick Button

The Virtual Joystick Window provides a convenient method of manually controlling robotic
cameras from the touch screen when a control panel is not available. Tap Virtual Stick to open.

Dragging your nger across or along any of the

controls on the touch screen will operate that
control in a similar way to the control panel.

• The direction you drag your nger controls
the direction of movement

• The distance you drag your nger controls the
speed of movement

• Removing your nger from the touch screen
stops the movement

Tap Virtual Stick again to close.

X/Y and Height controls are not
available on this version of the μVRC.

Options Menu

The Options Menu contains operation and conguration options for the currently selected camera,

allowing you to:

• Enable robotic cameras

• Turn X4 mode on and off

• Enter the CCU control screens

• Enter the Device Conguration screen

X4

The default zoom mode (zoom proportional) ensures that the speed of the pan and tilt movements
are proportional to the zoom angle of the camera lens. This means that pan and tilt move slowly
when you are zoomed in and quickly when you are zoomed out.

If X4 mode is switched on (zoom proportional mode is off), the pan and tilt movements are more

sensitive when zoomed in.

CCU

Tapping the CCU button opens up the camera functions and CCU control screens, where

functions and settings on a compatible connected camera can be used and adjusted. For more
information see - CCU Interfaces on page 38.

Device Conguration

Tapping the button opens the Device Conguration screen. Settings such as axis limits can be
adjusted on the currently selected camera. For more information see - Device Conguration on

page 35.

Tap Return in the Options menu to close the menu and return to the main screen.

20

Loading a New Show

1. Tap to select the desired show from the grid.

2. Tap the Load button.

3. The workspace is displayed with the selected show.

Creating a new show

1. Tap the New button.

2. Use the touch-screen keyboard to enter a name for the new show.

3. Tap Enter to return to the workspace, which is now ready to store shots in this new show.

The new show name is displayed in the title bar of the workspace.

Working with Shots and Shows

Shows are created by storing collections of camera position shots from one or more cameras. The

term ‘shows’ is historic, and stems from camera control systems originally being used purely for
the creation of TV shows. The term has been retained for consistence with existing users.

Show management

A show is a collection of stored shots from one or more cameras saved in a le. To store shots in

the grid display, either a new show must be created or an existing show must be loaded.

Tap Menu > Show Management to display the show management buttons.

Buttons Description

Load Load a show from the grid.

New Create a new show.

Delete Delete an existing show.

Import Import a show from a le.

Export Export a show to a le.

Unload Remove a show from the shot grid.

Rename Rename a show.

Only Admin users can permanently change shows – normal user’s changes only last

until the show is reloaded, or the software restarted.

21

Deleting a Show

There is NO undo option to recover a deleted a show, unless it has been backed up.

1. Select the desired show for deletion from the grid.

2. Tap the Delete button.

3. Tap YES to delete the show or NO to return without deleting.

Importing a show

1. Tap the Import button.

2. Tap Yes to continue with the import.

3. Use the le browser to locate the desired show. Tap Open to complete the import.

Exporting a show

1. Tap to select the desired show from the grid to export.

2. Tap the Export button.

3. Use the le browser to place the show in the desired location. Tap Save to complete the export.

Unloading a show

1. Tap the Unload button.

2. The current show and its stored shots is removed from the grid.

Renaming a show

1. Tap the Rename button.

2. Use the touch screen keyboard to enter a new name for the show.

3. Tap Enter to return to the workspace. The new show name is displayed in the title bar of the

workspace.

A show must be loaded to enable shots to be stored.

22

3. Tap Store on the touch screen and touch a position on the grid to store the shot.

4. Type a name for the shot into the Shot name* eld and tap Enter. The shot will be saved with

the default fade time** and its thumbnail displayed on the grid.

5. Repeat steps 2–5 for each required shot.

Managing Shots

The Edit menu provides options that let you:

• Rename or delete shots

• Modify the shot fade time

• Swap shot positions on the grid

From the workspace tap to select Edit to reveal the edit menu.

Only the latched delete, latched time and return buttons are available from the edit
menu until you select a shot on the grid.

Adding Shots to a Show

Make sure that the required show is loaded.

1. Select the required camera on the touch-

screen or the control panel.

2. Use the joystick and controls to move the

camera into position for the shot, and then
frame and focus the shot.

*A shot name cannot be entered if Require Shot Name is turned off in the User
Preferences screen. A number will be assigned to the shot instead.

**A specic fade time for the shot can be entered if Require Shot Time is turned on
in the User Preferences screen.

For more information, see Shot Options on page 28.

23

Latched Delete

Use the latched delete function when you want to delete multiple shots. The normal delete mode
deletes a single shot and then returns you to the workspace. Latched delete keeps you in the edit
menu after each deletion.

1. Tap Latched Delete.

2. Tap a shot and conrm the deletion.

3. Tap another shot and conrm the deletion.

4. Repeat until all of the desired shots have been deleted.

5. Tap Latched Delete again to exit this mode.

Latched Time

Use the latched time function when you want to modify the time of multiple shots. The normal time

mode modies a single shot and then returns you to the workspace. Latched time keeps you in the
edit menu after each shot is modied.

1. Tap Latched Time.

2. Tap the required shot and modify its time using the touch-screen keypad.

3. Tap another shot and modify its time.

4. Repeat until all of the desired shots have been modied.

5. Tap Latched Time again to exit this mode.

Other Edit Options

Edit Menu

Option

Description

Name

Tap on the shot in the grid you wish to edit the name of. Tap Name and type in
the desired shot name and tap Enter to return to the workspace.
The shot name can be a maximum of 16 characters long.

Time

Tap on the shot in the grid you wish to edit the time of. Tap Time and type in
the desired shot time and tap Enter to return to the workspace.

Delete

To delete a single shot, tap the shot you want to delete from the grid display.
Tap Delete and Yes to delete the shot and return to the workspace.

Swap

Allows you to rearrange the position of the shots in the grid by exchanging
pairs of shots or exchanging a shot with an unused position. Tap the shot on
the grid display that you want to move. Tap Swap. Tap a second shot or an
unused location to swap the shots on the grid and return to the workspace.

Return Tap Return to go back to the workspace.

24

5

Running a Show with the μVRC

Cueing, Trimming and Tracking Shots

While a typical show is being aired, the μVRC operator will be occupied with three primary tasks –

cueing, trimming and tracking shots.

Cueing shots

Cueing is the process of positioning the camera framing before it is used on air. It is important

that the μVRC operator stays ahead of the shows run-down by cueing shots as early as possible.

As time permits, the operator can have two or three shots cued ahead of the run-down. The Cut,

Fade and Stop function buttons on the touch screen (and control panel) are used to start and stop

the movements of the robotic camera when cueing shots.

Shot Status Colour Codes

The current shot for each camera is shown on the touch screen in a Blue box. Dark Blue if the
shot is exactly as stored or light Blue if the shot has been trimmed. The μVRC operator should
familiarise themselves with all the colour codes associated with a shot. See - Shot Status Colour

codes on page 15.

Adjusting Shot Fade Times

The stored fade time can always be modied on air (in real-time) using the time slider on the

virtual joystick.

The maximum fade time is 120 seconds.

Latched Cut or Fade Function

The cut or fade function can be latched to speed up system operation. Latching immediately
moves between the current and selected shots as soon as the new shot is selected. You do not
need to explicitly touch cut or fade to start the transition.

The fade function is not available when latched cut is enabled.

The cut function is not available when latched fade is enabled.

1. Ensure that no shots are currently cued (no shot thumbnails have a green background).

2. Tap the desired function for latching (Cut or Fade) on the touch screen – the button turns red to

denote latched mode.

3. Check that the operating area around the cameras is clear.

4. Select a shot on the touch screen. The thumbnail immediately turns red and the camera moves

to the selected shot.

5. Select other shots as required. In each case the thumbnail immediately turns red and the

camera moves to the selected shot.

6. Tap Cut or Fade again on the touch-screen to return to the normal control mode (Cut and Fade

available).

25

Fading or Cutting multiple shots

The number of shots that can be selected at one time is controlled by the Single Selection mode in
the User Preferences screen. See - Shot Preferences on page 29.

• If Single Selection mode is ON (button is blue), you can only select one shot on one camera at
a time. If you select another shot, the previously selected shot is automatically deselected.

• If Single Selection mode is OFF, you can select a shot on more than one camera. When you
then select fade or cut, all of the cameras will start moving at the same time.

Trimming shots

After a camera arrives “on shot” and before it is on air, the μVRC operator will want to take control

at the joystick panel and check the framing and focus of the shot and trim the shot as needed. This
lets the operator correct for things like the subject not being exactly in position.

The focus function, available from the touch-screen can be used for this purpose. See - Focus
Button on page 18.

After trimming a shot the stored shot cell will turn light Blue. The operator can replace the existing

shot with the trimmed shot by storing it (tap store and then touch the shot), ensuring the shot is
correctly framed for the rest of the current show. The stored shot cell will then turn dark blue.

Real Time Tracking

You can use the joystick panel to follow live movement.

Select the required camera at the control panel and track the shot as needed.

26

μVRC Conguration

6

The μVRC can be set up and congured to suit the preferences of the user. Parameters relating to

the user interface and control of attached cameras can be easily adjusted.

User Preferences

The user preferences screen provides many options for changing parameters and preferences
relating to the user interface, camera controls and shot management.

To access the screen, tap Menu > User Preferences.

Buttons with a blue background indicate that a toggled parameter or mode is ON. After making the

required changes on this screen tap Return to go back to the workspace. The screen is divided

into conguration groups:

• Grid Display Options

• Panel Options

• Shot Options

• Camera Control

• Shot Preferences

• Group Display Preferences

• CCU Recall Preferences

Grid Display Options

Options Description

Grid Size

Tap to change the size of the shot storage grid. Tap OK to conrm any
changes. The minimum grid size is 2 x 3 per page. The maximum grid
size is 10 x 12 per page.

Display Headers

Turns the column and row headers (ABC/123) on or off. The headers

are particularly useful when a show extends over multiple pages.

Per Camera Display

When this option is enabled and a camera is selected, the editing grid
will only show thumbnails for shots stored for that camera. All other
shots in the grid will be shown as grey boxes.

Changes made to the User Preferences are global (all cameras/devices)
and saved for the current user logged in.

27

Panel Options

Options Description

Display Full Panel Expands the size of the Camera Selection and Status panel.

Stick Preferences

Enters the Stick Preferences screen, where you can change the

parameters of the camera controls.

Options Description

Normal/Reverse

These parameters select the behaviour of each axis control to suit your

preferences. For example, pushing the joystick away from you can

cause the head/camera to tilt up or down. Tap to select Normal (button
is blue) or Reverse (button is black).

Compound/Linear/
Exponential

This adapts the prole of each axis control to suit your preferences.

Compound (a combination of linear for small movements and
compound for larger movements) is the most common choice.

Gain/Deadband

The Gain is used to set the velocity of the movement of the robotic
camera or lens, with the gain setting of 100 being the fastest speed of
movement. The Deadband setting is used to adjust the amount of play
that is felt in the joystick before the camera or lens starts to move.

Before changing the Gain or Deadband settings for the joysticks, you
should select the desired prole (Compound, Linear or Exponential).

Use the up/down arrows to adjust the gain and deadband settings.

Defaults Restores the factory default settings for all the stick preferences.

Save

Stores the current settings of stick preferences in the prole of the

currently logged in user.

Cancel Returns to the User Preferences screen without making any changes.

ALWAYS turn off X4 on the control panel before adjusting the zoom prole.

Separate prole, gain and deadband adjustments for the tilt joystick are not provided,

because the pan and tilt settings are synchronised. Any change to the pan gain or
deadband will be replicated in the tilt joystick.

Stick Preferences

The stick preference screen gives you the
option to change the behaviour of the main
camera axis controls. Each axis can be
adjusted as follows:

28

Shot Options

Options ON (Blue) OFF (Black)

Display Shot Name

The name of each shot is
superimposed in the stored shot
cells.

The shot name is not displayed.

Require Shot Name

You will be prompted to type in
a name when you store a new
shot. This is the most common
mode of operation.

The system will automatically
assign a number to each saved
shot. This can save time but
the shot names are no longer
descriptive.

Display Shot Time

The time of each shot is
superimposed in the stored shot
cells.

The time is not displayed.

Require Shot Time

You will be prompted to enter a
time when you store a shot.

The default shot time is used
for each stored shot. This is the
most common mode of operation
because it is faster than entering
times each time you store a new
shot.

Camera Control

Options ON (Blue) OFF (Black)

Deselect

A camera that has been selected
can be deselected by tapping it
on the screen.

A camera can only be deselected
by selecting a different camera.

Always Take Rudely

Selecting a camera at one

controller immediately takes
control away from a second
controller that may have been
using the camera.

A message appears requesting

you to conrm that you want to

take control of the camera from the
other controller.

Always Stop Fast

For a robotic camera that is in

motion during a cut or fade,

selecting STOP on the touch

-screen or on the control panel
will immediately stop movement.

This abrupt change of motion
is not desirable for a camera
that is on air, but does ensure
an immediate stop to avoid a
collision.

For a robotic camera that is in

motion during a cut or fade,

selecting STOP on the touch

-screen or on the control panel will
cause the camera to decelerate
and coast to a stop.

This smooth change of motion is
desirable if the camera is on air.

29

Shot Preferences

Options ON (Blue) OFF (Black)

Take Camera

When you select a shot on
the touch-screen, the camera
preview selection on the joystick
control panel automatically
follows and the joysticks will
control the camera for the
selected shot.

The shot selection on the touch­screen and the camera preview

selection are decoupled. So, let’s

say that one camera1 is on air and
being trimmed with the joysticks.
You can select the next shot on
camera3 and fade or cut to it while
continuing to trim camera1 with the
joysticks.

Single Selection

Allows you to select a shot on
one camera at a time and then

cut or fade to that shot. Selecting

a second shot on a different
camera automatically deselects

the rst shot.

Allows you to select shots on
multiple cameras and then cut or
fade to all of the shots at the same
time.

Delete Warning

Every time you delete or
replace a shot a warning
message appears and requires

you to conrm the deletion or

replacement.

Shots will be deleted or replaced

immediately. This mode should be
used with caution, because there
is no undo feature to restore a
deleted shot.

Default Time

Allows you to enter a default time
that will be used when you store

shots (if the Require Shot Time

function is off).

Allow Deselect

When you select a shot on the
touch-screen, you can deselect
that shot by tapping it a second
time.

When you select a shot on the
touch-screen, you can only
deselect that shot by selecting a
different shot on the same camera.
Touching a selected shot a second
time has no effect.

30

Options ON (Blue) OFF (Black)

Show Main Panel

Groups

Displays the Primary Panel
Groups bar showing the camera
mapping groups.

The height of each row of stored
shot cells in the editing pane is
reduced slightly.

The Primary Panel Groups bar is
not displayed and cameras are
assigned to their default buttons.

Show Preview Panel
Groups

Displays the Preview Panel
Groups bar showing the camera
mapping groups, below the
Primary Panel Groups bar.

The height of each row of stored
shot cells in the editing pane is
reduced slightly.

The Preview Panel Groups bar is
not displayed.

Dock On Top

Displays the Primary Panel
Groups and Preview Panel
Groups bars, if enabled, above

the Stored Shot Editing grid.

Displays the Primary and Preview
Panel Groups bars between the

Stored Shot Editing grid and the
Camera Selection and Status bar.

CCU Recall Preferences

Options Description

Iris

Tap Iris to recall only the Iris setting with the shot. Iris recall can be

selected with or without Master Black recall. If All is selected, the
setting of Iris is ignored.

Master Black

Tap Master Black to recall only the Master Black setting with the shot.
Master Black recall can be selected with or without Iris Recall. If All is
selected, the setting of Master Black is ignored.

All

Tap All to recall all stored camera functions and CCU parameters with

the shot. This will override the Iris and Master Black selections.

31

Conguration Management

The Conguration Management Screen provides an interface for:

• Adding and changing camera components

• User Management

For more information on adding and changing camera components, see Setting up a Basic

μVRC System on page 10.

To access the screen, tap Menu > Conguration Management.

User Management

In the System eld, tap the Users button.
The User Management window opens. By

default, the user Admin has been created as

a Superuser. A Superuser has the right to add

and delete other users.

At least one Superuser must be

present on the system to allow
access to User Management. The

last remaining Superuser cannot be

removed.

Adding a User

1. Tap the Add button. A new user named

Unknown appears in the list.

2. Name the user in the User eld.

3. Provide a password in the Password

eld (leave blank for no password).

4. Select the Role of the user (Operator

or Superuser).

5. Tap the Update button.

Deleting a User

To delete a user, select the user from the
list and tap the Delete button (6).

1

2 3 4

5

6

When all the required changes have been made, tap the Return button to exit the User
Management window.

32

Switcher Conguration

If a video switcher is connected into the

μVRC system, it can be setup in the Switcher
Conguration window.

In the System eld, tap the Switchers button.
The Switcher Conguration window opens.

1. Select the protocol* of the switcher from the

Protocol drop down list.

2. Select the transport type* of the switcher from

the Transport drop down list.

3. Change the number offset* for the switcher by

using the arrows in the Output eld. This is
the video output number the preview monitor is
connected to on the switcher.

4. Change the switcher number level* using the

arrows in the Level eld.

1

2

3

* Refer to the documentation supplied with the video switcher.

4

Congurable Switcher Settings

If the Congurable option is selected from the
Protocol drop-down menu, settings can be applied

for a specic switcher conguration.

Source offset: This is the input on the switcher

that the rst camera is connected to. Subsequent

cameras must be connected contiguously (some
switchers number from 0 and others from 1).

The example shown is for a Blackmagic video hub.

For further help and advice for
congurable switcher settings,

please contact Vinten.

33

Sort Cameras

If a multiple number of cameras are present on the μVRC system, the order they appear on the
Camera Selection and Status bar can be changed. This is useful to identify and select frequently

used cameras quickly during operation.

1. To access the screen, tap Menu > Sort Cameras.

2. Tap and drag a camera to a new location (example shows camera named PTZ4 being moved to

the rst position).

3. Continue to reposition cameras in the list as desired. When complete, tap the Apply button to

save the changes.

When camera positions are changed, the physical connections on the switcher must
also be changed to match the new order.

34

About Screen and License Management

2

3

There are two ways to apply a license key:

Copy and paste the new license key into the Key eld. Tap the Apply button to activate the
new license.

If you have a license le, tap the Padlock icon. When the Windows browser opens,
navigate to the appropriate license le (*.lic le) and tap Open. Tap the Apply button to

activate the new license.

2

3

1

1

The System ID is a unique code for your installation of the μVRC. The System ID must be

quoted when purchasing additional licenses.

License Management

If additional features and functions are purchased to upgrade the μVRC, a license key is issued.

This license key must be applied to activate the new features. When you buy a software license,
you will be issued with a license serial number. To obtain your license key, you must go to the
Vinten website and use the online license request form. You will need:

• The system ID

• Your name (individual or organisation)

• The license serial number

In the About screen, tap the Update License button. The License Management window opens.

The About screen displays software and license
information. The License management window is also
accessed from the screen.

To access the screen, tap Menu > About. The current
software version and licenses are displayed.

Tap Return to exit.

35

Device Conguration

!

WARNING! Changes to the conguration settings of robotic products can cause a risk of

personal injury or product damage. Ensure the motion of the product is monitored when
changes to settings are being carried out.

Connected robotic cameras, such as Vantage heads, can be congured to adjust settings for the

range and characteristics of movement.

1. Select the appropriate camera head.

2. Tap Opts > Device Conguration.

3. The Device Conguration screens open, with two tabs available for selection - Axis Gains and

Axis Limits.

Changing the Camera Axis Gain Settings

Robotic cameras can be congured to adjust the axis gain settings, changing the motion response

of the head to joystick control. Each axis can also be inverted to reverse joystick control. Axis gain
settings can be easily set, changed or cleared.

1

2

3

Adjust the gain settings for Pan or Tilt tapping the up/down arrows.

Tapping the Default button for Pan or Tilt restores factory defaults for gain settings.

1

2

Tapping the Invert* button for Pan or Tilt reverses the movement direction of the axis when
controlled by the joystick.

3

Changing the Camera Axis Limits

Robotic cameras can be congured to limit the range of movement in axes of motion. This is

useful to prevent collision with a wall or ceiling, or the tilt axis colliding with the head itself. Axis
limits can be easily set, changed or cleared.

Each axis displayed in a separate panel (example shown is the pan axis).

*The Invert setting is for when the robotic device is celling mounted, or the cradle is

inverted. Using the invert setting ensures that joystick control (camera movement) is in
consistent for all devices.

36

21

5

3

7

6 4

1 Current position marker of the camera on the axis

2 Mid-point of the axis

3 Set/Clear buttons for the positive axis end limit

4 Current positive axis end limit marker

5 Zero axis value button

6 Current Negative axis end limit marker

7 Set/Clear buttons for the negative axis end limit

Resetting the Axis Centre Point

The centre points of the camera control axes can be set at any position required.

In a typical installation, pan is set with the camera pointing at the main area of interest in
a production, and tilt set with the camera platform horizontal.

1. Drive the camera to the desired position on the axis.

2. Tap the Zero button in the appropriate axis panel.

3. The current position marker (blue triangle) returns to the centre point and is reset to 0.00°.

Setting Axis Limit Points

The range of the camera control axes can be restricted by setting limit points. The procedure
described below is identical for all axes and positive and negative limits.

1. Drive the camera to the desired limit position on the axis.

2. Tap the Set button for the appropriate axis limit end (positive or negative).

3. The axis end limit marker (red rectangle) moves to the new limit point and the limit position

value is displayed in degrees.

37

Clearing Axis Limit Points

Camera control axes limit points can be easily cleared and changed at any time. The procedure
described below is identical for all axes and positive and negative limits.

1. Tap the Clear button for the appropriate axis limit point (positive or negative) to remove the

current limit point position.

2. A new limit can be applied by driving to a new position and tapping Set.

38

CCU Interfaces

The camera functions and CCU controls available are dependent on the manufacturer

and model of the camera. For a full list of functions and controls for each camera

protocol, see - CCU Database on page 41.

Displaying the CCU Control Screen

To display the functions and CCU control screens for a camera:

1. Tap Opts > CCU to display the Functions and CCU control screens for the selected camera.

Each camera has a tabbed menu screen for camera functions and CCU controls. Buttons with a
green background are functions that are ON. Buttons with a black background on the screen are
OFF.

2. Tap Return to close the CCU screen and return to the workspace.

If the CCU button is red, or turns red at any time, communication with the camera has
been lost.

Typical Camera Functions and CCU Controls

The camera functions and CCU controls available vary widely depending on the manufacturer and
model of the connected camera and the protocol used. To demonstrate how the interface works, a

typical camera has been chosen to provide an example. For a full list of functions and controls for

each camera protocol, see CCU Database on page 41.

Camera Functions Tab

The rst tab on the CCU screen displays

the camera functions for the connected

camera. Buttons with a green background

indicate that a function is selected or ON.

Buttons with a grey background indicated

that a function is not available

CCU parameters changed using the camera’s menu system (either on the camera, or

using the μVRC remote menu control) are NOT stored with shots. Only parameters
that are directly modied from the μVRC CCU control buttons are stored.

CCU (Camera Control Unit), is a TV studio term where a separate, external box was often used to
control camera functions, such as colour matching. It is now used generically to describe adjusting
camera options.

If cameras installed in the μVRC system have a compatible remote control interface, you can

control camera functions from the user interface. All of the CCU parameters are saved with each
shot. When a shot is recalled, the CCU parameters can be recalled if required.

The instructions in this chapter must be used in conjunction with the documentation
supplied with your camera.

39

Many function buttons are a simple ON/OFF toggle such as Auto Focus or Color Bars. Functions

being controlled or changed are seen on the camera’s built in screen or video output.

Other function buttons open a sub menu, providing multiple selection settings such as WB Mode.

Tap a setting button to make a change and
return to the main screen.

On many cameras, it is possible to access and control the built-in menu system. Changes can be
made and stored remotely.

It is important that the user can see the on-screen display of the camera via a video
monitor screen when navigating camera menus and making changes.

Tap the Menu button. Use the navigation buttons
(right hand side of the screen) to scroll through the
menus. Tap the Conrm button to enter a sub-menu
or save a change. Use the Cancel button to discard
a change.

Tap the Menu button again to exit the camera’s
menu system.

40

CCU Controls Tab

The second tab on the CCU screen displays the CCU control functions for the connected camera.

Tap the Up/Down arrows to adjust individual settings as required. Red arrows indicate that
the setting is available for adjustment. Observe changes on the camera’s on-screen display or

video output. Some functions have an indicator bar and display the setting value for precise

adjustments.

Grey Up/Down arrows indicate a setting cannot currently be adjusted. This could
be because the function is currently set to “auto”. Most functions can be changed to

“manual” control in the Camera Functions Tab.

Many camera models have physical switches that prevent manual remote control.
Refer to the documentation supplied with your camera for more information.

41

CCU Database

The tables in this section list cameras/camera protocols compatible with the μVRC system. The

camera functions and CCU controls available vary between the various camera models and

protocols. The specic features are listed for each camera.

Although these features vary between cameras, they are operated in the same way as
demonstrated in the section Typical Camera Functions and CCU Controls on page 38.

Sony CNA-1 Features

Iris Mode Green Gain

Nd Filter Blue Gain

Cc Filter Red Pedestal

Black Stretch Green Pedestal

Auto White Balance Blue Pedestal

Bars Master Black

Red Gain Iris Level

Sony Lanc Features

Auto Focus Menu

Auto Iris Iris

Sony BRC Features

Auto Focus Menu (Menu off)

Auto White Balance Blue Gain

AWC Mode Red Gain

Color Bars Iris

Exposure Mode

42

Panasonic PTZ Features

Auto Iris Auto White Balance

Auto Focus Auto Black Balance

AWC Mode Color Bars

Menu Red Gain

Scene File Blue Gain

AGC Master Pedestal (Master Black)

Shutter Select Iris

Synchro Scan Menu Navigation

ISO/Gain

Hitachi

Broadcast
Cameras

Features

Color Bars Blue Gain

Iris Closed Blue Ped

AWB Green Ped

ABB M Ped (Master Black)

Red Gain Iris

Red Ped

Ikegami
Broadcast
Cameras

Features

Camera Color Bars Red Ped

Iris Closed Blue Gain

AWB Blue Ped

ABB M Ped (Master Black)

Red Gain Iris

43

Canon CINE EOS
(RC-V100)

Features

Auto Focus Iris

Color Bars ISO/Gain

Auto Iris Knee Point

Auto Knee White Balance B

On Screen Overlay Master Black B

Shutter Select Black Gamma

WB Mode Shutter Speed

Menu Knee Slope

AGC White Balance R

Custom Picture Master Black R

Record Review Sharpness

Nd Filter Master Pedestal

Record Start/Stop

44

Technical Specications

7

Electrical Data

Power Supply

19V 135W AC Power Adapter

Technical specications are subject to change without notice.

μVRC PC Controller

Joystick Panel

Physical Data

Height

369 mm (14.5 in.)

Length

539 mm (21.2 in.)

Width

83 mm (3.3 in.)

Touch-screen Display Panel

Specication

21.5inch TFT-LCD, LED Backlight, 16:9, 1920 x 1080 (FHD)

Illumination

250nits, Viewing Angle: 170° (Horizontal), 160° (Vertical)

Physical Data

Height

111 mm (4.4 in.)

Length

279 mm (11 in.)

Width

228 mm (9 in.)

Electrical Data

Power

Via USB interface (5V DC) consumption 1A

USB Interface

Type A male cable length: 2m (6ft. 6.8in)

VESA Mount

Mounting Hole Spacings

100 x 100 mm (3.9 x 3.9 in.)

Publication No. V4063-4980/1

www.vinten.com

Vinten™

AVitec Group brand