Get more out of the cameras in a live production setup by adding the Blackmagic Design ATEM Studio Converter. Using this converts your camera’s SDI or HDMI output to optical fiber, allowing the camera to be positioned far from the switcher and still get the full functionality of the switcher. The ATEM studio converter boasts embedded external audio and talkback from the camera position, internal battery, and sleek durable design for convenient portability. Designed for live production, the ATEM converter is ideal for live music, sporting events, and setups where cameras need to be placed in a remote location from the switcher. One ATEM studio converter controls up to four ATEM camera converters (a total of four cameras), and additional ATEM studio converters can be looped to control more than four cameras.

Connecting via industry standard single mode optical fiber cable with standard LC connectors provides connections for longer distances at less cost than traditional copper cables. This is the same optical fiber cable used in computer networking. SMPTE specification for optical fiber connections in the ATEM converter makes it possible to connect from up to 28 miles away. The ATEM studio converter has a rack-mount design with 4 bi-directional optical fiber connections, making it possible to convert optical fiber input to SDI and de-embed audio via XLR connections for multiple camera converters. Loop program SDI in, AES/EBU microphone and headphone loops allow linking of studio converters.

Communication between camera operators is key during busy live production. Talkback and tally functions on the converter provide that necessary support. Using the 16 channel SDI audio standard works to the ATEM converter’s advantage, with talkback embedded into channels 15 and 16. Built-in microphone input and speaker allow operation without headsets, or robust aviation style headsets can be used. Tally function indicates the camera is on air with a red LED light and red tally border on the converter’s SDI and HDMI monitoring outputs.

Machined aluminum front panel ensures the converter can withstand day-to-day use in live production environments while also being conveniently portable. On the front panel are microphone and headset connections, backlit press to talk buttons, a built-in speaker, and volume control for talkback. Built-in power supply and audio and video connections on the rear panel all support 110V to 240V.

Smart software in the ATEM converter helps with set up and ensures the converter keeps up with the latest firmware releases from a USB connection. Converter Utility Software firmware updates often add new features or support for new video formats. This software is available for Mac OS X and Windows.