Installation and Operation Manual

ATEM Production Switchers

Mac OS X™
Windows™
September 2011

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 Welcome

Welcome to ATEM Live Production!

Thank you for purchasing an ATEM switcher for your live production work!
If you’re new to live production switchers, then you’re about to become involved in the most exciting part
of the television industry and that’s live production! There is nothing like live production and it’s so easy
to become addicted to the adrenaline rush of editing in real time while the live event unfolds before your
eyes. It’s real television the way it should be!
Previously broadcast quality live production has always been way too high in cost for most people to afford,
while affordable switchers lacked broadcast features and quality. The new ATEM switchers change this, and
you can use it for the most amazing professional live production results. We hope you get years of use from
them and have lots of fun with your live production!
Not only does this ATEM switcher include all the features and SDI connections that broadcasters demand
but you also get loads of HDMI connections so you can get started with low cost HDMI HD cameras and
televisions. This really reduces cost and lets you build your business while adding additional equipment
as you grow.
This instruction manual should contain all the information you’ll need for installing your ATEM Production
Switcher. The ATEM switcher includes a software control panel which you can run on your computer or
you can purchase a hardware based broadcast control panel separately. The computer and control panels
connect to your ATEM switcher via a network cable and you can directly connect them together without
any extra equipment!
Please check the support page on our web site at www.blackmagic-design.com for the latest version of
software for your ATEM switcher. Simply connect your computer to the ATEM switcher and the ATEM
broadcast control panel via USB to update software so you get all the latest features! When downloading
software, please register with your information so we can keep you updated when new software is released.
We are constantly working on new features and improvements, so we would love to hear from you!

Grant Petty
CEO Blackmagic Design

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 Contents

ATEM Production Switchers

5 Getting Started 22 Connecting Video Outputs

Introducing ATEM 5 24 Using ATEM Software Control
What is an M/E Switcher? 5
Interface Overview 24
Understanding the ATEM Processor Chassis 8
Switcher Control Panel 24
Plugging in Multi View Monitoring 9
Media Manager 25
Plugging in a Control Panel 10
Switcher Settings 26
Installing Blackmagic ATEM Software on Mac OS X 11
Installing Blackmagic ATEM Software on Windows 7 12 Using the Software Control Panel 26
Plugging in your Computer 13 Mix Effects 26
Settings You Need To Check! 14 Program Bus Source Select Buttons 27
Plugging in Cameras 15 Preview Bus Source Select Buttons 27
Connecting to a Network 16 Transition Control and Upstream Keyers 27
Changing the Switcher Network Settings 17 Downstream Keyers 29
Understanding the Broadcast Panel Network Settings 17 Fade to Black (FTB) 29
Setting the Broadcast Panel to Find the Switcher IP Location 18 Processing Palettes 29
Changing the Broadcast Panel Network Settings 19 Using the Media Manager and Media Pool 31

20 Updating the Software

Changing Switcher Settings
Controlling Auxiliary Outputs
33
36
How to Update the ATEM Software! 20
Updating the Switcher Chassis Software 20
Updating the Broadcast Control Panel Software 21

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 Contents

ATEM Production Switchers

37 Using the ATEM 1 M/E Broadcast Panel Manual Transitions 62

Preview Transition 63
Control Panel Overview 37
Keying on ATEM Switchers 64
Using the Control Panel 37
Understanding Keying 64
Mix Effects 37
Using Adobe Photoshop with ATEM 82
Source Names Display 37
Setting up Plug-in Switcher Location 82
Program Bus 37
Preparing Graphics for Download 82
Preview Bus 38
SHIFT 38 Using Auxiliary Outputs 83
Destination Display and Select Bus 38 Using USB 3.0 Connection 85

86
Transition Control and Upstream Keyers 38
Downstream Keyers 40 Blackmagic Media Express
Fade to Black 40 What is Media Express? 86
System Status 41
Capturing Video and Audio Files 87
System Control 41
Playing Back Video and Audio Files 91
Menu Buttons 41
Browsing Media 92
Joystick and Numeric Keypad 41

42 Operating Your ATEM Switcher

94 Help

Video Processing Overview 42

95 Warranty Information
Internal Video Sources 42
Black 42
Color Bars 42
Color Generators 42
Media Players 43
Cut Transitions 44
Auto Transitions 46

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 5 Getting Started

Introducing ATEM
The ATEM 1 M/E Production Switcher is a professional broadcast grade digital production switcher capable
of switching and creatively processing a variety of video sources in live video production and broadcast
environments. The switcher uses a familiar M/E (Mix Effects) based design with software and hardware
control options that provides a familiar, fast and easy to use workflow!
An ATEM production switcher only requires an ATEM production switcher chassis and the included software
control panel to get started. Then you can optionally add one or more hardware control panels if you need
a more advanced solution.
Multiple control panels can be connected to control the same switcher chassis by simple ethernet
connections. The ATEM software control panel can be installed on as many computers as you like at no
extra cost.

What is an M/E Switcher?

If you have used low cost switchers before, then these might not have used the mix effects style of operation
that’s commonly called an M/E style of operation. If you have used an M/E style switcher, then you might
want to skip ahead to install and get working with your new ATEM switcher!
When you’re starting out with a switcher for the first time, the ATEM can look a little intimidating with all its
buttons and knobs, however it's all very logically laid out so it's very simple to use!
ATEM is a true high-end broadcast switcher that operates using the M/E workflow standards used in the
broadcast industry. This means once you get familiar with how it works, you will feel instantly at home on
virtually any switcher used in broadcast today.
The M/E style of operation has been developed over decades to help eliminate errors when switching live
events and is a broadcast standard. It's extremely easy to see what's going on at any time so you don't get
confused and make mistakes. The M/E style of operation lets you check the sources you are about to switch
on air, as well as try effects before using them on air. You can see buttons for each keyer and transition, so
you instantly know what's going on and what's about to happen.
The best way to learn about how your ATEM works is to grab your switcher and play with it while referencing
this manual! You might want to jump ahead and install your switcher before reading the rest of this section!
To start, the most visible part of an M/E based control panel is the fader bar fader, and the program and
preview rows of source buttons!

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 6 Getting Started

The program bus source select buttons are used to hot switch sources to the program output. The source
currently on air is indicated by a button that is illuminated red. Be careful when selecting sources on this row,
as they will instantly be switched on air!
A better and more orderly way to do transitions is to select them on the preview row, and then use a
transition to cut or transition them on air.
The bottom row of buttons is the preview bus source selection. This is where you will spend most of your
time selecting sources about to go on air. This selected source is sent to the program output when the next
transition occurs. The next transition can be triggered by pushing the cut button, the auto button, or by
toggling the fader bar. You can select between a mix, dip, wipe, DVE or other transition depending what
you have selected in the transition control section.
This is a very powerful way to use a switcher, because you can select your source on the preview row, and see
it on the preview video output to confirm that you have the correct source before you select the transition
you want. You can see what's happening at all stages so it’s hard to make mistakes. Only the M/E style of
operation allows you to keep track of what's going on.
You also might notice that once your transition is complete, the sources selected on the preview and
program rows swap over. This is because the source you selected on the preview row is now the new on
air source, so it becomes selected on the program row once the transition is complete. Remember the
program row always shows what's on air.
You will also see both the program and preview buttons illuminate red when doing an auto transition, as for
a short time, they are both on air while the transition occurs.
There are multiple types of transitions available, and they can be selected in the transition control. On the
ATEM 1 M/E Broadcast Panel there are two transition type buttons. One is labeled dip/mix and the other is
labeled DVE/wipe. Hitting these buttons selects mix and wipe transitions, however pressing shift and then
selecting mix or wipe allows more types of transitions, dip and DVE. You can also select both buttons for a
stinger transition. If you are using the ATEM software control panel on your computer, all transition types
have their own button, and no shifting in necessary to select any of them. Extra details on how all these
transitions work are provided later in this instruction manual.
The other concept that is important to know about M/E style switchers, including ATEM, is the video on the
program and preview rows is technically called the background video. This is because the upstream (effects)
keyers and downstream keyers will overlay on top of this source. So you can load graphics into the keyers
and see them with the preview video and when keys are turned on, you will see the overlay on top of the
program video. This is very powerful and allows multiple layers to be built up.

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 7 Getting Started

Another great advantage of the ATEM M/E style of operation is you can tie keyers to the transition. This
means when you do a mix transition, you can also fade on or off keyers at the same time. This allows you to
build up a composition, and then bring the whole lot on air at the same time. This is what the next transition
buttons do, and you can select background for normal transitions, or select one or more keyers to transition
them on air.
You can even press multiple buttons on the hardware control panel to tie multiple keys and the background
at the same time. There are also dedicated downstream key tie buttons to tie downstream keyers to the
transition. Downstream keys also have dedicated cut and mix buttons and so are very flexible. Downstream
keyers are always layered over the top of everything including the transition, so are a great place to key bugs
and logos!
Finally, when your live production is finishing, it's nice to have a dedicated fade to black (FTB) control to fade
everything to black!. You can see the dedicated fade to black control on the right side of the keyboard. This
lets you fade everything to black, and helps make sure you don't miss a layer. Fade to black is at the extreme
end of the processing chain so you get a clean fade of all sources.
The last part of an M/E style switcher is the select bus. This is above the program row, and simply allows
sources to be selected for effects processing and other purposes, and there is a label above this to show
what you’re switching. The select bus is commonly used to select key inputs, and aux. outputs. It's a clean
switch, so when used to select aux. outputs, you get a clean cut.
As you can see by this quick overview, M/E style of operation allows confident live production with
good feedback on what's going on and the state of your switcher and programming at any point in your
production. Once you learn M/E style of operation, you can move between models of production switchers
with little retraining as they all work the same!

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 8 Getting Started

Understanding the ATEM Processor Chassis

The ATEM processor chassis provides all the video processing as well as all video input and output connectors,
connection for control panels and power connections. You use the ATEM switcher by connecting and using
various types of control panels. This allows the switcher to be located remotely, such as in machine rooms
where it's closer to the connected video devices, while the control panel can be placed in a location from
where it is easier to run production.
The Television Studio is capable of switching 6 external inputs from its SDI and HDMI input connectors.
Input 3 and 4 are selectable between HDMI and SDI, which can be set in the ATEM software control panel
settings tab.
ATEM Television Studio
The 1 M/E model of switcher is capable of switching 8 external inputs from its analog, SDI and HDMI input
connectors. Input 1 is selectable between the HDMI Input 1 connector and the analog component Input 1
connector and is set in the ATEM software control panel settings tab.
The 2 M/E model of switcher is capable of switching 16 external inputs from its analog, SDI and HDMI input
connectors. Input 1 is selectable between the HDMI Input 1 connector and the analog component Input 1
connector and is set in the ATEM software control panel settings tab.
ATEM 1 M/E Production Switcher Chassis
The ATEM chassis mounts in a standard 19" rack. The Television Studio is only 1 rack unit high while the 1
M/E is only 2 rack units and the 2 M/E is only 3 rack units high. The ATEM chassis is very thin and so is ideal
for either fixed installation or portable use. You can mount at the front or back of a rack to save space.
When running your ATEM, you might notice the ATEM processor chassis feels warm to the touch. This is
because the internal microprocessors are connected to the rear mounted heat sink via the metal chassis.
This causes heat to spread out over the metal chassis, however your ATEM chassis is not overheating.
This design eliminates noisy fans, so is more reliable, and you won't get noise into your microphones.
ATEM 2 M/E Production Switcher Chassis

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 9 Getting Started

Plugging in Multi View Monitoring

The ATEM switcher chassis can be a little intimidating when first seen, because it has no controls to access,
just lots of connectors! So the first step is to plug in the power, and a monitor, to see it working!
A fantastic way to check that your ATEM is powered on and working correctly is to plug in a HDMI television
into the Multi View output on the right side of the heat sink on the ATEM rear panel. You should see 8 video
boxes at the bottom, and two larger boxes at the top, all bound by white borders. Each box will have a label.
If you see this video output, then your ATEM switcher is powered on and running fine! All you need to do
now is plug in some control panels and video sources so you can start using your switcher!
If you don't see the multi view output on your television, then check the connections and cables are correct.
You need to plug into the multi view connector on the rear of the ATEM chassis. Next check your television is
compatible with 1080i59.94 video, as your ATEM defaults to that video standard when new. If your television
is not compatible with 1080i59.94, then don't worry, as it's easy to change once we connect your computer
to the ATEM chassis.
If you still don't see the multi view on your television, then double check your power connection to make
sure your ATEM is powered on.

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 10 Getting Started

Plugging in a Control Panel

If you have purchased an ATEM Broadcast Panel, then you won't want to wait to plug in your computer, as
it's much more fun to plug in the hardware panel first!
Plugging in the ATEM Broadcast Panel is simple, because it's already set to the correct network settings to
plug into your ATEM processor chassis without any changes required.
Step 1. Plug in the power to the ATEM Broadcast Panel. If you want redundant power supplies, then you
can purchase a second power supply and plug that into the second power connector.
Step 2. Plug one end of an ethernet cable into one of the control panel’s ethernet ports. Either of the
ports will do, as there is an ethernet switch inside the panel, so both ports work the same.
Step 3. Plug the other end of the same cable into the ethernet port on the ATEM processor chassis
labeled switcher control.
If everything is working fine, you should see the lights on the ethernet port start to flicker, and the panel
should come alive with buttons illuminated, and the main display on the panel should say ATEM Production
Switcher.

USB 2.0
BACKUP 12V POWER MAIN 12V POWER
ETHERNET 2 ETHERNET 1
If you don't see this appear, then check the ATEM processor chassis and the control panel are powered
correctly and the cables are screwed in tight.
If things are still not working, then you should make sure you are not plugged into a network, and that your
panel is connected directly to your ATEM switcher processor chassis. If this is correct, then the most likely
cause of the problem is the switcher and the chassis have different IP addresses. In this case, you will need
to check and set these as described later in this manual.
If you need to manually set the network settings, then you might need to get the assistance of a technically
minded friend who understands how to set IP addresses. By default, the ATEM processor chassis is set to a
fixed IP address of 192.168.10.240, and the ATEM Broadcast Panel is set to fixed IP of 192.168.10.10, so when
connected directly they should communicate without any problems. Go to the connecting to the network
section in this manual to see how to check and set your switcher to these addresses. Then it should work ok
with a direct connection between the panel and the switcher processor chassis.

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 11 Getting Started

Installing Blackmagic ATEM Software on Mac OS X

Before installing any software you will need administrator privileges.
Step 1. Ensure you have the very latest driver. Visit www.blackmagic-design.com/support
Step 2. Open the “Blackmagic ATEM Switchers” folder from the disc or downloaded disk image and
launch the “Blackmagic ATEM Switchers Installer”.
Step 3. Click Continue, Agree and Install buttons and the software will be installed on your system.
Step 4. Now restart your computer to enable the new software drivers.

Plugins and Applications that are Installed

The ATEM Switchers software installs the following components which are used by ATEM Switchers:
Follow install prompts. ‚‚ ATEM Software Control
‚‚ ATEM Setup Utility
‚‚ Blackmagic Desktop Video drivers
‚‚ Blackmagic Media Express
The ATEM Switchers software also installs additional Blackmagic Desktop Video components which are
used by other Blackmagic Design capture products when installed on the same computer:
On Mac OS X, all the files needed to run your ATEM switcher will be installed into a folder called Blackmagic
ATEM Switchers in the Applications folder.
In this Blackmagic ATEM Switchers folder, you will see ATEM Software Control, which is the software control
panel for your switcher, and also allows loading graphics into the switcher media pool and changing settings.
The ATEM Setup Utility allows you to change the switcher IP address, or update the switcher and panel
software via USB. Also included in this folder is this instruction manual and some example graphics. Use the
example graphics to explore the internal media pool and keying functionality.
In the Applications folder, you will see Blackmagic Media Express which allows you to capture the Program
Output of ATEM Television Studio to H.264 files.

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 12 Getting Started

Installing Blackmagic ATEM Software on Windows 7

Step 1. Ensure you have the very latest driver. Visit www.blackmagic-design.com/support
Step 2. Open the “Blackmagic ATEM Switchers” folder and launch the “Blackmagic ATEM Switchers
Installer”.
Step 3. The software will now be installed on your system. An alert will appear: “Do you want to allow the
following program to install software on this computer?” Click Yes to continue.
Step 4. You will see a dialog bubble saying “found new hardware” and the hardware wizard will appear.
Select “install automatically” and the system will find the required Desktop Video drivers. You will
then receive another dialog bubble saying “your new hardware is ready for use.”
Step 5. Now restart your computer to enable the new software drivers.

Plugins and Applications that are Installed

Follow install prompts.
The ATEM Switchers software installs the following components which are used by ATEM Switchers:
‚‚ ATEM Software Control
‚‚ ATEM Setup Utility
‚‚ Blackmagic Desktop Video drivers
‚‚ Blackmagic Media Express
The ATEM Switchers software also installs additional Blackmagic Desktop Video components which are
used by other Blackmagic Design capture products when installed on the same computer:
Once the computer has restarted, all the ATEM software applications will be installed and can be accessed
from Start > Programs > Blackmagic Design.
In the ATEM Switchers folder, you will see the ATEM Software Control, which is the software control panel for
your switcher, which also allows loading graphics into the switcher media pool and changing settings. The
ATEM Setup Utility allows you to change the switcher IP address, or update the switcher and panel software
via USB. Also included in this folder is this instruction manual and some example graphics. Use the example
graphics to explore the internal media pool and keying functionality.
In the Media Express folder, you will see Blackmagic Media Express which allows you to capture the Program
Output of ATEM Television Studio to H.264 files.

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 13 Getting Started

Plugging in your Computer

You can plug your computer directly into the ATEM switcher so you can control the switcher, load the media
pool with graphics and clips, and change switcher settings.
You will need to connect a computer otherwise you cannot change settings such as the switcher video
standard, as well as down conversion modes, input video connections and labels, as well as customizing
the multi view.
Connecting your computer is easy and after installing the ATEM Switcher Software simply follow the
directions below:
Step 1. Connect an Ethernet cable from the chassis ethernet port labeled Switcher Control to the Ethernet
port of your computer.
If you have a hardware panel installed, and already have this connected to your ATEM, then plug
your computer into the second ethernet port on your hardware panel instead. Now the computer
will talk via your panel to the switcher, and both the hardware panel and this software control
panel can be operated in parallel.
Step 2. Ensure your ATEM switcher is powered on.
Step 3. In the network settings on your computer, enable ethernet, and set the IP address setting to
manual. Then enter the IP address 192. 168.10.1.
Now when you run your ATEM Software Control you should see the buttons on the control tab light up and
show the switcher state after a slight pause.
If you’re more technically minded and want to connect your ATEM switcher to your network, then you will
need to change the network settings on your ATEM switcher and control panel. Information on how to do
this is available in the next section. You will need to manually set the IP address for the switcher chassis as
well as all control panels to match your network IP address range. Your ATEM switcher defaults to a fixed
IP address of 192.168.10.240 when shipped and, by using the ATEM Setup Utility, you can customize the IP
address for your custom network configuration.

Set IP Address for your Computer

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 14 Getting Started

Settings You Need To Check!

Now you have the software control working, you need to change some settings to use your ATEM switcher.
The changes are made in the settings tab of the ATEM Software Control and the most critical settings are
listed below:

Check 1. Set the switcher video standard

ATEM defaults to 1080i59.94 when purchased, however you might want to select another video
standard if you’re working in Europe or Asia. 1080i59.94, 720p59.94 and NTSC is common in the
Set Video Standard US and Japan, while in Europe and Asia, 1080i50, 720p50, or PAL is more common.
You need to make sure all your cameras and any connected HDMI devices are also set to the
same video standard, or they won't be visible on the switcher video inputs. This means you need
to standardize on a specific video standard for all your equipment. This is generally quite easy,
as countries have standards for their HD broadcasts and all equipment sold in these countries
matches this standard or at the very least can be switched between standards. When all video
standards are matched, you should see connected devices show up in the multi view video input
windows.

Check 2. Set and label the video input settings

Set Video Inputs and Labels
Different models of ATEM switchers allow some inputs to change between multiple connections
on the rear panel. For example on the ATEM 1 M/E Production switcher model, input 1 can be
switched between HDMI and analog component.
While you’re setting inputs, you might also want to change the input labels. These labels appear
on the multi view and the hardware panel. There are two labels to change: a long label used in
software, and the short label that's limited to 4 digits and used in the hardware control panel.

Check 3. Customize the multi view

There are 8 input views in the multi view, and you can select from a range of external and internal
sources to display on these views. Simply click the menus to select what you want on each view. If
you don't have 8 cameras on your job, then you can even select media players, color generators,
or aux. outputs on these views. It's extremely flexible, and you can also change the multi view
layout to suit your preference.

Customize the Multi View

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 15 Getting Started

Plugging in Cameras and Other Video Sources

Now you’re ready to plug in cameras! All you need to do is connect a cable from the camera video output,
either HDMI or SDI, and then connect it to an input on the ATEM switcher chassis.
Each connector on the rear chassis has an input label so you can see what camera is what input when viewed
on the multi view and the control panel. If all your cameras are using the same video standard as set in your
switcher, you will see each camera appear as you plug them in.
You don't need to worry about genlock for cameras, because each input of your ATEM switcher has a
full frame re synchronizer. If the ATEM switcher detects at any time that a video source is out of sync, it
will automatically enable the frame sync so the input is clean for use. The frame sync function also allows
consumer cameras to be connected to your ATEM, and using consumer cameras is a great way to get
started because the latest HDMI based consumer HD cameras are now very affordable, and give quite
nice HD. This lets you spend your money on more cameras, and then as you grow, you can start adding
professional SDI based cameras.
If you’re plugging in a computer to the HDMI inputs of the ATEM switcher, then be sure that the monitor
settings on the computer are set to the correct resolution and frame rate. If you’re using 1080i video, then
your monitor needs to be 1920 x 1080 resolution. If you’re running 720p on your switcher, then your monitor
needs to be set to 1280 x 720 in resolution. If you are using NTSC then your monitor needs to be 720 x 486.
If you are using PAL then your monitor needs to be set to 720 x 576. The frame rates also need to match.
It's important to know that HDMI cable quality can vary, so we recommend buying good quality cables, and
high end video resellers will stock a range of high quality cables. Good quality cables will help eliminate
unwanted sparkle or glitches in HDMI video inputs.
If you don't see video on a HDMI video input, even though you have a device connected, then you might
want to check if the HDMI device you have connected uses HDCP content protection. This content
protection actually encrypts the video data in the HDMI video cable, so the manufacturer does not allow
the content to be seen on anything other than a television, so you won't be able to see images from these
devices. Devices with HDCP content protection include DVD payers, and set top box's.
In general, cameras and computers don't have content protection, so you should not have any problems
connecting these devices. Some gaming consoles don't include HDCP content protection, however
generally these are only the developer versions of these gaming consoles. Using the analog component
input on your ATEM switcher to connect devices is a good work around in these situations.
Please always be sure you have copyright ownership before using content, or displaying content publicly.

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 16 Getting Started

Connecting to a Network
If you want to connect your ATEM switcher to a larger ethernet network, then you will most likely need
to change the network settings on your ATEM switcher. Most people simply plug their computer and
control panel direct to the ATEM chassis, however in some situations it can be very powerful to connect
via your network!
Your ATEM ships from the factory with settings to allow hardware control panels to simply be connected
directly with an ethernet cable. However your ATEM supports full ethernet IP protocols so you can place
your switcher and panel on your network or anywhere on the planet using the internet.
However it's worth noting that if you use your ATEM on a network, then you’re also increasing the complexity
of the connection between your control panel and the switcher, so there is possibly a greater chance of
something going wrong. However ATEM can be used when plugged into a switch, and even via most VPN's
and over the internet.
To allow communication over ethernet, the IP addresses of the switcher chassis, broadcast panel and any
computer's running the ATEM Software Control Panel need to be configured correctly. The IP address used
for each device will depend on the IP address range of the network you’re plugging into.
The ATEM switcher chassis always needs a fixed IP address so control panels have a stable location to
connect to. This means you need to find a free fixed IP address in the range of your network that you
can use.
The control panels can be set to DHCP or fixed IP addresses. Generally when used on a network, the
control panel would be selected to DHCP, so it is automatically assigned an IP address when connected to
the network.
For all devices to communicate, they must share the same IP address subnet, which means the first 3 fields
in the IP address need to be the same. Each device must also use a unique IP address.
Please remember to set all devices to the correct IP address so they can all communicate. You will need to
set the IP address of the ATEM Production Switcher via USB using the ATEM Setup Utility. You will need to
set the DHCP or fixed IP mode on the ATEM Broadcast Panel and if using a fixed IP address on the panel,
set the IP address on the panel. You will also need to set the panel, switcher address to the new IP address
you have just set for the switcher.
Lastly, you need to ensure your computer is connected and working on your network. Then when you launch
the ATEM Software Control application, you will be prompted automatically to enter in an IP address for
the switcher if ATEM Software Control cannot communicate with the ATEM processor chassis. Use the IP
address you just entered in for the switcher processor chassis. Then the ATEM Software Control can find the
switcher and communicate.

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 17 Getting Started

Changing the Switcher Network Settings

The switcher network settings are changed using the ATEM Setup Utility via USB. Please follow the steps
below:
Step 1. Connect the switcher chassis via USB, to the computer running the ATEM Setup Utility software.
Step 2. Launch the ATEM Setup Utility software.
Step 3. The switcher's current IP address and other settings will be displayed in the window. If you only
want to check the IP address and not change it, you can simply quit ATEM Setup Utility.
Step 4. To change the IP address or any other settings, simply edit the numbers and then select apply.

ATEM Setup Utility Connects via USB Step 5. A dialog box will prompt you to please power cycle your ATEM switcher. Turn off and on the
power on the switcher and then press OK.

Understanding the Broadcast Panel Network Settings

A broadcast panel's network settings are configured from the network setup menu in the broadcast panel's
system control. Along with its own IP address, the broadcast panel also needs to be configured with the
network location of the switcher, so that communication between the two devices can be established over
the ethernet connection. If the broadcast panel's network settings are correctly configured, you will see the
panel light up and buttons turn on so you can control the switcher.
If the broadcast panel is displaying a message looking for the switcher, then you will need to set the
broadcast panel's network settings so that the broadcast panel and switcher share the same subnet, and
the network location to which the broadcast panel is trying to connect, matches the switcher's IP address.

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 18 Getting Started

Setting the Broadcast Panel to Find the Switcher IP Location

To set the network location of the switcher on the broadcast panel, so the panel can find the switcher and
communicate, simply follow these steps:

Home Menu Step 1. When there is no communication with the switcher, the NETWRK SETUP menu will appear on the
broadcast panel system control. Select the NETWRK SETUP menu button.
ATEM 1 M/E Production Switcher Step 2. Select the SWITCHR IP menu button and use the knobs or the numeric keypad to edit each field
as required.
Control Panel Connected OK Step 3. When a field is changed, SAVE and REVERT menu buttons become available. Select SAVE to save
the changed IP address, or REVERT to ignore the changes and revert to the currently stored IP
address.

Panel IP Address: 192.168.10.10 Step 4. If the switcher IP address setting is changed, selecting SAVE will apply the changes and the
broadcast panel will attempt to establish communication with the switcher using the new IP
Connecting to 192.168.10.240... address.
This does not change the IP address of the switcher itself. It just changes where the control panel is looking
Control Panel Not Connected to find the switcher. If the control panel cannot find the switcher, then you might need to check the switcher
processor to see if it's been set correctly. To change the IP address of the switcher, connect the switcher via
USB to a computer and run the ATEM Setup Utility software as described previously in this manual.

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 19 Getting Started

Changing the Broadcast Panel Network Settings

Because the broadcast panel is also on the network and communicating with the switcher processor chassis,
it also has network settings so it can connect to the network. These settings are different to the switcher IP
address, which is just where the panel is looking to find the switcher. The panel network settings can be
changed by following the steps below:
Step 1. On the broadcast panel system control menus, select the NETWRK SETUP menu button.
If the broadcast panel has already established connection to the switcher, you can access the
NETWRK SETUP menu from the HOME menu by pressing the SHIFT and CUT/FILL buttons
Change Network Settings from the System Control simultaneously. This will reveal the NETWRK SETUP menu button so you can select the network
settings.
Step 2. The broadcast panel's current IP address, net mask and gateway information is displayed.
Step 3. The next step is to decide if you want the panel to use a fixed IP address or to be automatically
assigned an IP address from a DHCP server. Select PANEL DHCP to set this using the soft keys on
the main display.
If you’re connecting direct to a switcher without a network, then you won't have a DHCP server
to assign an IP address automatically, so you will want to select fixed. ATEM Broadcast Panels are
delivered with a fixed IP address set to 192.168.10.10, for a direct connection.
However if your network has lots of computers that automatically assign IP addresses via DHCP,
then you can also select DHCP on the panel so the panel can get its network information
automatically. This is possible on the panel, and it's only the switcher chassis itself that always
requires a fixed IP, as the switcher needs to be found by the control panels at a known fixed
address on your network.
If you select DHCP, your network settings will be complete because the panel network settings
will be obtained from the network automatically.
Step 4. If you have elected to use a fixed IP address, you now need to set this IP address by selecting the
PANEL IP menu button and use the knobs or the numeric keypad to edit each field as required.
Changing this IP address may cause the panel to lose communication.
Step 5. If the subnet mask and gateway address need to be set, then select the relevant buttons on the
system control buttons to set and use knobs or the numeric keypad to edit.
Step 6. When any settings have been changed, SAVE and REVERT menu buttons will become available.
Select SAVE to save the changes to the new network settings, or REVERT to ignore the changes
and revert to the current network settings.

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 20 Updating the Software

How to update the ATEM Software!

From time to time Blackmagic Design will release new software for your ATEM switcher, with new features,
bug fixes, and increased compatibility with third party software and video devices.
To update your ATEM switcher with new software, you need to use the ATEM Setup Utility to connect to
the ATEM processor chassis and panels via USB. This utility always checks the switcher software and lets you
know if there is new software.
Always update all your equipment at the same time so it's all running the same version of software.
First, download the latest Blackmagic ATEM Switcher software and install it on your Mac or PC using the
instructions listed previously in the Installing Software section of this manual. Once installed, the new
software for your ATEM processor chassis and broadcast panel will be included in the ATEM Setup Utility.

ATEM Setup Utility

Updating the Switcher Chassis Software
Step 1. Connect the switcher chassis via USB to your computer. The switcher chassis is equipped with
a USB connector which can be connected to a computer's USB 2.0 or USB 3.0 port using a
USB cable.
When upgrading software, make sure the switcher is the only ATEM device connected via USB to
the computer running the setup utility software. If more than one ATEM device is connected, the
switcher may not be recognized.
Step 2. Launch the ATEM Setup Utility software.
Step 3. If the switcher software requires updating, you will be prompted by a window asking if you would
like to update the software. Select Update Now to initiate the update process. The update process
may take a few minutes. Do not unplug power from the switcher during the software update.
Step 4. Once the software update is complete, a window will prompt you to cycle power on the switcher.
Select OK and cycle power on the switcher.

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 21 Updating the Software

Updating the Broadcast Control Panel Software

Step 1. Connect the broadcast panel via USB to your computer. The broadcast panel is equipped with
a USB connector which can be connected to a computer's USB 2.0 or USB 3.0 port using a
USB cable.
When upgrading software, make sure the broadcast panel is the only ATEM device connected
via USB to the computer running the setup utility software. If more than one ATEM device is
connected, the panel may not be recognized.
Step 2. Launch the ATEM Setup Utility software.
Step 3. If the broadcast panel software requires updating, you will be prompted by a window asking
if you would like to update the software. Select Update Now to initiate the update process.
The update process may take a few minutes. Do not unplug power from the panel during the
software update.
Step 4. Once the software update is complete, a window will prompt you to cycle power on the broadcast
panel. Select OK and cycle power on the broadcast panel.

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 22 Connecting Video Outputs

There are multiple video outputs on your ATEM switcher, and they can be used to connect to a wide range
of video equipment, in all kinds of locations. ATEM includes SDI, HDMI and analog component, plus SD SDI
and composite video outputs, so you should be able to connect to equipment at any location. Descriptions
of each output connection are listed below.

SDI Program Output

This SDI output switches between SD and HD, and outputs the main program video output of the ATEM
switcher. It can be connected to any SDI based video device. The audio on this output is embedded from
the audio inputs on the ATEM switcher chassis or the ATEM audio break out cable.

HDMI Program Output

Similar to the SDI program output, this output switches between SD and HD of the main program video
output of the switcher. It can be connected to televisions, video projectors or even Blackmagic Design's
H.264 Encoder or HyperDeck Shuttle. The audio on this output is embedded from the audio inputs on the
ATEM switcher chassis or the ATEM audio break out cable.

Component Video Program Output

These three BNC connectors output analog component video that switches between SD and HD from the
main program output of the ATEM 1 M/E and 2 M/E production switchers. This output can be connected
to older analog equipment, encoders and video projectors for greater compatibility with equipment you
might be forced to use on location.

Standard Definition SDI Program Output

This output is down converted from high definition video and always outputs the program video feed as
standard definition on the ATEM 1 M/E and 2 M/E production switchers. This output is perfect for connecting
to older standard definition equipment or even when you need to generate simultaneous streams to master
or broadcast in both SD and HD at the same time. When running SD this output will be the same as the
program output. The audio on this output is embedded from the analog audio inputs on the ATEM audio
break out cable.

Composite NTSC/PAL Program Output

This output is down converted from high definition video and always outputs the program video feed, as
standard definition NTSC or PAL composite video, on the ATEM 1 M/E and 2 M/E production switchers.
Some locations might have old televisions or video equipment, and this composite output means you can
connect direct to these systems.

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 23 Connecting Video Outputs

Multi View HDMI Output

This HDMI output is always high definition and includes 8 video input views, as well as preview and program
views. Tally is included with red for sources on air, and green for sources selected on the preview bus. You
can connect this output to televisions and computer monitors with HDMI connections.

Multi View SDI Output

This SDI output is always high definition and includes 8 video input views, as well as preview and program
views. Tally is included with red for sources on air, and green for sources selected on the preview bus. You
can connect this output to televisions and professional monitors with SDI connections.

Auxiliary SDI Outputs

The ATEM 1 M/E and 2 M/E production switchers have auxiliary outputs that match the video standard and
switch between SD and HD. They can be routed from all internal and external video feeds. You can select
these outputs to be program feeds if you need more program outputs from your ATEM, or you can select
other sources such as clean feeds that include program video, without down stream keying, or even specific
video inputs. Aux. outputs are perfect for driving video screens on stage, or other feeds in venues where you
can independently control what these viewers see. Aux. outputs switch cleanly and can be used as little cut
only switchers independent of the main program outputs. The audio on these outputs is embedded from
the analog audio inputs on the ATEM audio break out cable.

USB 3.0 Output

The USB 3.0 output, available in the ATEM 1 M/E and ATEM 2 M/E Production Switcher can be used to
capture video direct to a Windows PC for real time mastering to file or for waveform monitoring. When
encoding software is used, you can also stream over the internet. ATEM switchers include Media Express
software for recording from this output, as well as Blackmagic UltraScope software for waveform monitoring.
The USB 3.0 output is connected to the Aux. 1 output so you can customize what feed you send to the USB
3.0. This lets you record clean feeds, or other sources based on the needs of your job. The audio on this
output is embedded from the analog audio inputs on the ATEM audio break out cable.

USB 2.0 Output

The ATEM Television Studio has a USB 2.0 output which can be used to capture an H.264 compressed
master file of your program. ATEM switchers include Media Express software for recording from this output.
The audio on this output is embedded from the AES/EBU input.

Preview SDI Output

This output shows the source selected on the preview bus on the switcher, as well as preview transitions.
This output is perfect when you want to use a full resolution preview monitor. The audio on this output is
embedded from the analog audio inputs on the ATEM audio break out cable.

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 24 Using ATEM Software Control

Interface Overview
The ATEM Software Control is included with your ATEM Production Switcher, and allows you to control your
switcher in a similar way to a full hardware control panel. However instead of menu buttons, it uses a range
of pallets on the right side that shows you all processing features of your production switcher, and allows
settings to be easily made.
You can also use the ATEM Software Control to configure your switcher settings as well as upload graphics
and manage the media pool.

Switcher Control Panel

The software control panel user interface has three tabs; Switcher, Media and Settings, which can be
accessed by selecting the tab at the bottom left of the screen. The media and settings tabs contain unique
settings for the switcher, which can only be made from the software control panel.
When first launched, the switcher screen is selected, which is the main control interface for the switcher.
The software control panel must be connected to a switcher chassis to run.

Mouse or Trackpad Operation

The virtual buttons, sliders and fader bar on the Software Control Panel are operated using your computer
mouse or a trackpad if you’re using a laptop.
To activate a button, click once with the left mouse button. To activate a slider, click and hold down the left
mouse button while dragging. To control the fader bar, click and hold down the left mouse button on the
fader bar handle and drag in the desired direction of travel.

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 25 Using ATEM Software Control

Using Keyboard Hot Keys

Hot keys can be used allowing convenient control of some switcher functions using a standard QWERTY
keyboard as shown in the following table:

Hotkeys Function
<1> - <8> Previews source on switcher Inputs 1 - 8
<Shift> <1> - <8> Hot switches source on switcher Inputs 1 - 8 to Program output
<1> - <8> with <Caps Lock> ON Hot switches source on switcher Inputs 1 - 8 to Program output
<Space> CUT
<Return> or <Enter> AUTO
More information on how to use the switcher control panel is included in the next sections.

Media Manager
The media manager allows you to upload graphics and image sequences to the media pool in the ATEM
switcher. Each ATEM switcher model has memory for graphics that’s called the media pool. This memory
varies in size between different ATEM models, and holds images with alpha channel that can be assigned to
a media player for use in the production. The ATEM Television Studio holds 2 still graphics with alpha and
the ATEM 1 M/E and 2 M/E hold 32 still graphics and 2 clips.
So for example you could have the maximum 32 still graphics and 2 clips loaded that will be used on your
live production and then assign each of the 2 media players to various stills as you work. As you take a
graphic off air, you can change the media player graphic to the next graphic you want, and then you can put
that media player back on air with the new graphic.
When a still or clip is loaded into the media pool, the alpha channel is loaded automatically if one is included
in the image. When a still or clip is loaded into a media player, the output of the media player will include
both key and fill outputs that need to be routed into keyers in the switcher. So if your graphics have an alpha
channel, be sure you select both the fill and key outputs of the media player into the switchers keyers!

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 26 Using ATEM Software Control

Switcher Settings
The last tab in the ATEM Software Control allows you to change the video input selections and labels.
Setting labels is important, and they are visible in the multi view output as on-screen labels and on the
broadcast control panel in the source names row.
In the settings tab, you can also set the switcher video standard. This is the master video standard that the
whole switcher operates at, and it's very important you set this to the same video standard as your video
inputs. More details on setting the video standards is included later in this manual.
The switcher settings also let you customize your multi view. The multi view can change its orientation and,
on the ATEM 1 M/E and 2 M/E production switchers, any of the 8 video views can be changed allowing you
to view any source in the switcher. This lets you monitor cameras, internal sources, media players and even
aux. outputs on a single monitor. Multi view really saves space when doing portable location based events
because you only need a single monitor.

Using the Software Control Panel

The switcher tab is the main control interface for the switcher. During live production, the switcher tab can
be used to select sources and take them to air.
You can select the transition style, manage upstream/downstream keyers and turn on/off the master fade to
black. The palettes on the right hand side of the interface are where you adjust transition settings including
transition rates, adjust color generators, control media players, and adjust the upstream and downstream
keyers as well as control fade to black rate.

Mix Effects
The mix effects block of the switcher tab contains all the source select buttons for the program and preview
buses, allowing external inputs or internal sources to be selected for next transition previewing or switching
to air. On multiple M/E switcher models, this part of the interface controls M/E 1.

ATEM Mix Effects

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 27 Using ATEM Software Control

Program Bus Source Select Buttons

The program bus source select buttons are used to hot switch background sources to the program output.
The source currently on air is indicated by a button that is illuminated red.
INPUTS Input buttons match the number of external switcher inputs.
BLACK Color black source internally generated by the switcher.
BARS Color bars source internally generated by the switcher.
COLOR 1 and 2 Color sources internally generated by the switcher.
MEDIA 1 and 2 Internal media players that display stills or clips stored in the switcher.

Preview Bus Source Select Buttons

The preview bus source select buttons are used to select a background source on the preview output, this
source is sent to the program bus when the next transition occurs. The currently selected preview source is
indicated by a button that is illuminated green.
ATEM Mix Effects
INPUTS Input buttons match the number of external switcher inputs.
BLACK Color black source internally generated by the switcher.
BARS Color bars source internally generated by the switcher.
COLOR 1 and 2 Color sources internally generated by the switcher.
MEDIA 1 and 2 Internal media players that display stills or clips stored in the switcher.

Transition Control and Upstream Keyers

CUT
The CUT button performs an immediate transition of the program and preview outputs, overriding the
selected transition style.

AUTO/RATE
The AUTO button will perform the selected transition at the rate specified in the RATE display. The
transition rate for each transition style is set in the transition palette for that style and is displayed in
the RATE window of the transition control block when the corresponding TRANSITION STYLE button
is selected.
The AUTO button illuminates red for the duration of the transition and the RATE display updates to indicate
the number of frames remaining as the transition progresses. If an ATEM broadcast panel is connected, the
Transition Control fader bar indicator on the panel updates to provide visual feedback on the progress of the transition.

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 28 Using ATEM Software Control

Fader Bar
The fader bar is used as an alternative to the AUTO button and allows the operator to manually control
the transition with a mouse. The AUTO button illuminates red for the duration of the transition and the
RATE display updates to indicate the number of frames remaining as the transition progresses. If an ATEM
broadcast panel is connected, the fader bar Indicator on the panel updates to provide visual feedback on
the progress of the transition.

Transition Style
The TRANSITION STYLE buttons allow the operator to select one of five types of transitions; mix, dip, wipe,
DVE, and stinger. The available transitions depend on your switcher model. For example the Television
Studio does not have DVE and stinger transitions. The selected transition type is indicated by a yellow
illuminated button.

PREV TRANS
The PREV TRANS button enables the preview transition mode, allowing the operator to verify a mix, dip,
Transition Control wipe or DVE transition by performing it on the preview output using the fader bar. When the PREV TRANS
is selected you will see the preview output match the program output, and then it's simple to practice your
selected transition with the fader bar to confirm you are going to get what you want. This is a very helpful
feature to avoid mistakes on air!

Next Transition
The BKGD, KEY 1, KEY 2, KEY 3, KEY 4 buttons are used to select the elements which will transition on air or
off air with the next transition. The number of available keyers depends on your switcher model. All keys can
be faded on and off when the main transition occurs, or you can select just keys to transition individually, so
the main transition control can be used to fade keys on and off.
When selecting the elements of the next transition, the switcher operator should look at the preview video
output because it provides an accurate representation of what the program output will look like after the
transition is completed. When only the BKGD button is selected, a transition from the current source on the
program bus to the source selected on the preview bus will occur without any keyers. You can also select
only keyers to transition, leaving the current background live throughout the transition.

ON AIR
The ON AIR indicator buttons indicate which of the keys are currently on air and can also be used to
immediately cut a key on or off air.

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 29 Using ATEM Software Control

Downstream Keyers
TIE
The TIE button will enable the DSK on the preview output, along with the next transition effects, and tie it to
the main transition control so that the DSK can be taken to air with the next transition.
The DSK will transition at the rate specified in the RATE display of the transition control block. If the DSK is
tied, the signal routing to the clean feed 1 is unaffected.

ON AIR
The ON AIR button is used to cut the DSK on or off air and indicates whether the DSK is currently on or off
air. The button is illuminated if the DSK is currently on air.

AUTO
The AUTO button will mix the DSK on or off air at the rate specified in the DSK RATE window. This is similar
to the main AUTO rate on the transition control block, however it's limited only to the specific downstream
Downstream Key keyer. This can be used to fade up and down bugs and logos, such as live or replay bugs during production,
without interfering with the main program production transitions.

Fade to Black (FTB)

The FTB button will fade the whole program video output to black at the rate specified in the fade to black
RATE window. Once the program output has been faded to black, the FTB button will remain illuminated red
until it is pressed again, fading the program output up from black at the same rate. Fade to black is mostly
Fade to Black
used at the start of your production, and at the end of your production, or when cutting to commercial
breaks. It ensures all layers in the switcher are faded down together. A fade to black cannot be previewed.

Processing Palettes
The following processing palettes are available in the software control panel for the ATEM 1 M/E Production
Switcher model. These change based on the model you’re connected to, and are an easy way to see what
processing is available in the switcher. Different ATEM models will have different features, so the palettes
can change. The palettes also show the order of the processing in the switcher.
You can expand and minimize palettes to save space and scroll them up and down to get the adjustments
you need to set.

Color Generator 1 and 2

The ATEM switcher has two color matte generators which can be configured from the color generator
palette using a color picker or by setting hue, saturation, and luminance levels.
Processing Palettes

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 30 Using ATEM Software Control

Media Player 1 and 2

The ATEM switcher has two media players which playback the clips and stills that are stored in the media
pool memory built into the switcher. The drop down list is used to select the still or clip that will be played or
made available on the media player input to the switcher. When a clip is selected, the transport controls can
be used to play, pause and loop the clip. Controls are also provided to step forward and backward through
frames of the clip.

Upstream Key 1 to 4
Depending on the switcher model, ATEM has up to four upstream keyers per M/E which can be configured
from the upstream key palettes. Each keyer has its own palette. Within each palette the keyer can be
configured as a luma key, chroma key, pattern key or DVE. The type of key available will also depend on
Processing Palettes
the switcher model and if the DVE is available. The selected palette will display all the parameters that
are available to configure the keyer. More information on how to use upstream keyers is included later in
this manual.
Because the ATEM 1 M/E Production Switcher and Television Studio models have only 1 M/E, these keyers
are all labeled as being for M/E 1. On the ATEM 2 M/E Production Switcher model, the labels will show
which M/E these keys are connected to.

Transition
The transition palette is where you can configure the parameters of each transition type. For example for the
dip transition the palette has a drop down where you can select the dip source and for the wipe transition
the palette displays all the available wipe patterns. There are lots of variations of transitions, and a large
number of transitions can be created by combining settings and features in the transition palette.
It's worth noting that simply selecting a specific type of transition in this palette will only adjust the settings
for these transitions, and you still need to select the type of transition you want to preform in the transition
control section on the software or hardware control panel. For ease of use, some people like to use the
hardware based broadcast panel for switching, while using the software panel palettes for setting up the
transition. The software and hardware panels work together and mirror all settings, so you can use any
combination you like!

Downstream Key 1 and 2

The ATEM has two downstream keyers which can be configured from the downstream keys palette.
The palette has drop down boxes for selecting the fill and key signals to the keyer, sliders to set the clip and
gain values, pre-multiplied, and mask settings.

Fade to Black
The Fade to Black palette is where you can set the fade to black transition rate.

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 31 Using ATEM Software Control

Using the Media Manager and Media Pool

The media tab is used to transfer stills and clips from your computer into the switcher's Media Pool. On the
left is a browse screen that you can use to navigate to the location of still image and image sequence files
on your computer. On the right, the Media Pool shows what is currently loaded into the switcher's memory.

Navigating the Browse Window

The browse window is a simplified file browser that lets you navigate your computer to look for graphics
files. The drop down list at the top shows the current folder. You can use the drop down to navigate back
one level or multiple levels at once.
The rest of the browse window shows you a list of the files and folders that are in the selected folder. You can
double click on a folder to enter the folder and view its contents. When you enter a folder the drop down
list is updated with the name of the current folder. When possible, the file list will show the resolution of any
graphics files in the list so you can check the correct television resolution graphics before loading them.

Browsing and Loading Files

Browse Window The ATEM Production Switcher model's media pool has 32 still image windows and 2 clip windows that also
have a location for audio. On the ATEM Television Studio only the first two still image windows in the media
pool are active. On the 1 M/E and 2 M/E Production Switcher all of the windows in the media pool are active.
To copy a still, simply drag it from the browse screen and drop it into an empty window in the Media Pool.
To copy a clip you must select a sequence of images in the browse window and drag the entire sequence
and drop it into the clip window. You can do this by selecting the first file, then scrolling to the last file in the
image sequence, and while holding the shift key, selecting the last file. All the files will then highlight and
then can be all dragged into any of the two clip windows in the media pool. Audio files, which are used
when playing a clip in a stringer transition, can be dragged and dropped into the audio portion of the clip
window labeled Drag Audio Here.
When copying, a progress bar will show the status of the transfer. You can drop multiple files into the media
pool, even if the first images have not completed copying, as they will be scheduled to download one after
the other. If a clip or still is dragged and dropped into a window which already has content loaded, the
existing content will be overwritten.
Compatible Files - The ATEM media pool supports PNG, TGA, BMP, GIF, JPEG and TIFF still image formats.
Clips are simply a sequence of images. Audio files must be WAV, MP3 or AIFF. QuickTime and AVI is not
currently supported, however will be added in a future software update.

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 32 Using ATEM Software Control

ATEM Media Pool

After the still and clip files have been transferred into the switcher's memory, the still window will show
a thumbnail of the image and for clips, the window will show a middle frame from loaded clip. Stills are
marked with a number indicating their position in the media pool so you can identify them on the broadcast
panel when assigning an image to the media player. Clips have a status bar that indicates the number of
frames in the clip. If you want to keep track of the file name for each still or clip, then as you hover the mouse
over the thumbnails, you will see the file name display at the bottom of the window. This is very useful, as
in the media player palette in the switcher tab, as well as the Photoshop plug-in, you will see a list of media
pool still and clip numbers as well as the file name.
There are two blue numbers displayed against clips or stills in the media pool, and these indicate the current
still or clip selected to the media players. Media player 1 is shown with a 1, and media player 2 is shown with
a blue number 2.
On the ATEM 1 M/E and 2 M/E Production Switchers you can change the media player assignment from
ATEM Media Pool the media tab by using the copy to media buttons. First select the clip or still you want to copy to one of the
media players. The selected item will have a yellow border. Press the copy to media 1 or the copy to media
2 buttons at the bottom of the window to copy the selected still or clip to one of the media players. The
badge will update to reflect the current still or clip that is being used by the media player.
You can also assign media players to stills or clips from the switcher tab media player palette, from
the hardware based ATEM broadcast panels, or in some cases from the Photoshop plug-in when
downloading stills.

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 33 Using ATEM Software Control

Changing Switcher Settings

The settings tab is used to change video inputs and labels, set the switcher video standard, adjust the down
converter aspect ratio , adjust media players and to customize the multi view.

Setting Video Inputs

The video input settings are used to select the inputs and change labels. On some models of ATEM switcher,
the video inputs can select between different video sources, such as HDMI or SDI, or HDMI and component
video connections. You can identify switchable connections on the rear processor chassis because all inputs
are numbered, and any inputs that can switch with have the same input number on their label.
For example, on the ATEM 1 M/E Production Switcher model, input 1 can be selected between component
or HDMI. Both the component and HDMI inputs on the rear of the processor chassis are all labeled input 1,
and the selection between them is performed here in the input settings. Simply click the input 1 menu to
select which input you want.
Inputs can have customized labels and these labels appear on ATEM broadcast control panels and on the
multi view. Long and short labels need to be entered, as long labels are often too long to be displayed on
broadcast control panel’s smaller displays.
A short 4 character name is used to identify the video input on the source names display of the broadcast
panel. The longer input names support up to 20 characters and are displayed in various drop down source
selection boxes on the software control panel and also on the multi view windows on-screen labels.
To change an input name, click in the text field, enter the text and select set. The input name will be updated
on the multi view, software control panel and broadcast panel if one is connected. It's a very good idea to
change both the short and long labels at the same time, so they match. For example Camera 1 would be
entered in as a long label, and CAM1 as the short label.

Set Video Inputs and Labels

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 34 Using ATEM Software Control

Setting the Switcher Video Standard

The video setting is used to select the operating video standard of the ATEM switcher, and this must
be set to the same video standard as the video sources you are plugging into the ATEM switcher. If they
don't match, the inputs won't appear correctly, and will most likely remain black. A good way to work out
the video standard you should use is to check your cameras, and then set the switcher video standard to
the same format.
ATEM currently supports the following video standards:
SD 525i/59.94 NTSC
SD 625i/50 PAL
HD 720p/50
HD 720p/59.94
HD 1080i/50
HD 1080i/59.94
Set Video Standard
To set the video standard, select the video standard from the menu, and then select the set button. Any time
the video standard is changed, it will erase any frames you have loaded into the media pool.

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 35 Using ATEM Software Control

Setting the Down Converter Outputs

When running in high definition, permanently down-converted to standard definition outputs are available
on the ATEM 1 M/E and 2 M/E production switchers as SDI and composite video output connections. When
running the switcher in high definition, this output always outputs down converted standard definition for
connection to older devices. Down conversion is not available on the ATEM Television Studio model.
The list below shows the downconverter output format for each of the switcher's internally set video
standards:
720p/50 converts to 625i/50 PAL
720p/59.94 converts to 525i/59.94 NTSC
1080i/50 converts to 625i/50 PAL
1080i/59.94 converts to 525i/59.94 NTSC
Down conversion can be selected to various scaling options, and these include center cut, letterbox
and anamorphic.
Setting the Down Converter Style
Centre Cut Crop left and right side making a 4:3 image.
Letterbox Scales the video down with black bars to top and bottom.
Anamorphic Horizontal scale (squeeze) to make 16:9 image fit 4:3. Requires an anamorphic or
16:9 monitor or television to correct the aspect ratio.

Setting the Serial Control Output

This option will allow camera control and server control from the ATEM 1 M/E and 2 M/E Production Switcher.
This is not currently supported in the current ATEM software and will be added in a future software update.

Adjusting the Media Pool Clip Length

On the ATEM 1 M/E and 2 M/E production switchers, the ATEM media pool has two clips that share the
same pool of memory. The maximum capacity for the number of frames for both clips is set by the amount
of physical memory in the switcher itself. If you need a clip to be longer than half the frames of memory
available, then you can adjust the balance of frames available for each clip here.
Lengthening one clip will steal frames from the other, and limit the other clip to shorter image sequences.
On the 1 M/E Production Switcher model when operated in 1080i video standards, there are 180 frames that
Setting the Media Pool Clip Length can be shared between the two clips. For 720p there are 360 frames that can be shared. When running in
standard definition there are 900 frames that can be shared.

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 36 Using ATEM Software Control

Customizing the Multi View

The multi view settings allow you to set the multi view orientation. On the ATEM 1 M/E and 2 M/E Production
Switchers the larger program and preview windows have fixed routing, while the 8 smaller windows are fully
routable so you can monitor any switcher source. By default, external Inputs 1 - 8 are routed to multi view
source windows 1 to 8. Simply click the menus to select what sources are viewed on each window! On the
ATEM Television Studio the multi view sources are fixed to show you Program, Preview, the 6 inputs and the
2 media players.
The multi view also includes a tally feature, so if any of the sources in the multi view are used in a layer on
the program or preview outputs, they will be highlighted red or green. A white border means your source is
not currently on-air on the program or preview outputs. A red border to indicates the source is used on the
program output and a green border indicates a source is selected on the preview output.
The preview window on the multi view output features safe area markers so you can make sure your program
will look great on any monitor. In HD, the outer border represents the 16:9 graphics safe area and the inner
Customize the Multi View
border represents the 4:3 graphics safe area. In SD, the single border represents the action safe area. You
can also change the orientation of the multi view windows by selecting one of four different layouts using
the icons at the bottom of the multi view settings window. The multi view output is always HD even when
running in standard definition so you can see all your sources in higher resolution.

Controlling Auxiliary Outputs

Auxiliary outputs are separate SDI outputs on the switcher that can have various inputs and internal sources
Auxiliary Outputs Control Menus on Mac OS X routed to them. They are very similar to router outputs, and all video inputs, color generators, media players,
program, preview and even color bars can be output. The ATEM 2 M/E Production Switcher has 6 auxiliary
outputs. The ATEM 1 M/E Production Switcher has 3 auxiliary outputs and the ATEM Television Studio does
not have any auxiliary outputs.

Routing Auxiliary Outputs

Auxiliary Outputs Control Menus on Windows Each aux. output has a menu for selecting the source to output on the aux. video output. Simply select the
menu, then scroll the list for the source you want to output. When selected, the output on the selected aux.
will change immediately. You can see the current source with a tick in the menu item.
There is a range of sources available, including black, all video inputs, color bars, media players fill and
media player key outputs, program, preview and clean feeds.
More information about Auxiliary outputs and how to use them is explained in the Using Auxiliary Outputs
section. Aux. outputs are extremely powerful and allow many exciting possibilities like alternative switcher
outputs, or they are very commonly used for driving video projectors and video walls on stage during
concerts and live performances. Most modern live performances have complex multi media aspects to
them, and the aux. outputs are designed to allow you to control all these displays from your ATEM!

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 37 Using the ATEM 1 M/E Broadcast Panel

Control Panel Overview

The ATEM Broadcast Panel plugs in using an ethernet connection to the ATEM processor chassis.
This keyboard has similar functions to the software panel, and the main buttons are laid out in a similar M/E
style, so it's easy to move between the hardware and software interfaces.
If fast and critical live switching is being done, then the ATEM Broadcast Panel is an incredibly fast and
robust control solution. There's nothing like pushing high quality buttons on a panel to ensure fast and
accurate switching!
When using the hardware broadcast panel and software panels together, any change on one panel will be
reflected on the other, and you can use both panels at the same time. You can also plug in more than one
broadcast panel.
1 2 3
KEY KEY KEY KEY
1 2 3 4

4 5 6

ATEM 1 M/E Broadcast Panel

LUMA CHROMA PATTRN
KEY KEY KEY DVE

MASK
MENU
HOME
Using the Control Panel 7 8 9

CAM 0 CLR

Mix Effects
The program bus, preview bus and source names display are used together to switch sources on the
program and preview outputs.

Source Names Display

ON ON ON ON

The source names display uses a 4 character label to represent the switcher's external inputs or internal
CUT
BKGD
sources. Labels for the 8 external inputs can be edited on the settings tab of the software control panel.
KEY 1 KEY 2 KEY 3 KEY 4 DSK 1 DSK 2
TIE TIE

Labels for the internal sources are fixed and don't need to be changed.
FILL

DIP
Pressing the SHIFT button will change the source names display to show extra sources, called shifted
DVE

MIX
sources, allowing selection of up to 20 different sources.
WIPE

When aux has been selected in the system control block, pressing the SHIFT and CUT/FILL buttons
SHIFT DSK 1 DSK 2

simultaneously will change the source names display to show protected sources, available for routing to
CUT CUT

auxiliary outputs. Protected sources are program, preview, clean feed 1 and clean feed 2.
PREV DSK 1 DSK 2
CUT AUTO FTB

Program Bus
TRANS AUTO AUTO

The program bus is used to hot switch background sources to the program output. The source currently on
ATEM Mix Effects
air is indicated by a button that is illuminated red. A blinking red button indicates that the shifted source is
on air. Pressing the SHIFT button will display the shifted source.

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 1 2 3
KEY KEY KEY KEY
1 2 3 4

4 5 6
LUMA CHROMA PATTRN
KEY KEY KEY DVE

7 8 9

MASK
MENU
HOME
CAM 0 CLR

38 Using the ATEM 1 M/E Broadcast Panel

Preview Bus
ON ON ON ON

The preview bus is used to select a source on the preview output. This source is sent to program when the
CUT
BKGD
next transition occurs. The selected source is indicated by a button that is illuminated green. A blinking
KEY 1 KEY 2 KEY 3 KEY 4 DSK 1
TIE
DSK 2
TIE
FILL

green button indicates that the shifted source is on preview. Pressing the SHIFT button will display the
shifted source.
DIP DVE

MIX WIPE

SHIFT
SHIFT The SHIFT button provides a global shift and is used to shift the program, preview, and select busses along
DSK 1 DSK 2
CUT CUT

with the label. It also provides a shift for the transition type and joystick and other menu functions.
1 2 3

4 5 6 PREV
TRANS CUT Destination Display and Select Bus
AUTO
DSK 1
AUTO
DSK 2
AUTO
FTB

7 8 9
The destination display works in conjunction with the source names display and select bus and is used to
CAM 0 CLR assign sources to auxiliary outputs and keyers.
ATEM Mix Effects
The 8 character destination display and select bus together show you the routing of sources to keys and
auxiliary outputs. The currently selected source is indicated by an illuminated button. A blinking button
indicates a shifted source. A green illuminated button identifies a protected source. Protected sources are
program, preview, clean feed 1 and clean feed 2.
ON ON ON ON
CUT/FILL
CUT
When a key setup menu is selected and the CUT/FILL button is pressed, the destination display and select
DSK 1 DSK 2
FILL
BKGD KEY 1 KEY 2 KEY 3 KEY 4
TIE TIE
bus change to show the currently selected cut signal (also known as the Key signal) for that key. When
selecting sources for auxiliary outputs, pressing the CUT/FILL button along with the SHIFT button displays
DIP DVE program, preview, clean feed 1 and clean feed 2 as sources for selection on the select bus.
MIX WIPE

Transition Control and Upstream Keyers

SHIFT DSK 1 DSK 2
CUT CUT
CUT
The CUT button performs an immediate transition of the Program and Preview outputs, regardless of the
PREV
TRANS CUT AUTO
DSK 1
AUTO
DSK 2
AUTO
FTB selected transition type.

Transition Control and

Upstream Keyers

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 1 2 3

4 5 6

7 8 9

39 Using the ATEM 1 M/E Broadcast Panel

CAM 0 CLR

AUTO and Transition Rate

ON ON ON ON
The AUTO button will perform the selected transition at the rate specified in the transition rate window.
The transition rate for each transition type is set in the system control, and is displayed in the transition rate
CUT
BKGD KEY 1 KEY 2 KEY 3 KEY 4 DSK 1 DSK 2
window of the transition control block when the corresponding transition style button is selected.
FILL TIE TIE

The AUTO button illuminates red for the duration of the transition and the transition rate display updates to
DIP DVE
indicate the number of frames remaining as the transition progresses. If the software control panel is active,
MIX WIPE
the virtual fader bar updates to provide visual feedback on the progress of the transition.

SHIFT DSK 1 DSK 2

Fader Bar and Fader Bar Indicator
CUT CUT

The fader bar is used as an alternative to the AUTO button and allows the operator to manually control
the transition. The fader bar Indicator next to the fader bar provides visual feedback on the progress of the
PREV
TRANS CUT AUTO
DSK 1
AUTO
DSK 2
AUTO
FTB transition.
The AUTO button illuminates red for the duration of the transition and the transition rate display updates to
indicate the number of frames remaining as the transition progresses. If the software control panel is active,
Transition Control and the virtual fader bar updates to provide visual feedback on the progress of the transition.
Upstream Keyers
Transition Type Buttons
The two transition type buttons allow the operator to select one of five types of transitions; mix, wipe, dip,
DVE, and stinger. Mix and wipe transition types are selected by pressing the appropriately labeled transition
type button.
Dip and DVE transition types are selected by holding down the SHIFT button while pressing the desired
transition type button. The button will illuminate green indicating a shifted transition type.
The stinger transition type is selected by simultaneously pressing both transition type buttons. When stinger
transitions are selected, both buttons will be illuminated green.

PREV TRANS
The PREV TRANS button enables the preview transition mode allowing the operator to verify a dip, mix,
wipe or DVE transition by performing it on the preview output using the fader bar.

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 1 2 3

4 5 6

7 8 9

40 Using the ATEM 1 M/E Broadcast Panel

CAM 0 CLR

Next Transition
ON ON ON ON
The BKGD, KEY 1, KEY 2, KEY 3, KEY 4 buttons are used to select the elements which will transition on air
or off air with the next transition. Any combination of background and keys can be selected by pressing
CUT
BKGD KEY 1 KEY 2 KEY 3 KEY 4 DSK 1 DSK 2
multiple buttons simultaneously.
FILL TIE TIE

Pressing any of the next transition buttons will clear selection of all others. When selecting the elements of
DIP DVE
the next transition, the switcher operator should look at the preview output because it provides an accurate
MIX WIPE
representation of what the program output will look like after the transition is completed. When only the
BKGD button is selected, a transition from the current source on the program bus to the source selected on
SHIFT DSK 1
CUT
DSK 2
CUT
the preview bus will occur.

ON AIR
1 2 3
PREV
TRANS CUT AUTO
DSK 1
AUTO
DSK 2
AUTO
FTB The ON AIR indicator buttons indicate which of the upstream keys are currently on air and can also be used
4 5 6
to immediately cut a key on or off air.
7 8 9

CAM Transition
0 CLR Control and Downstream Keyers
Upstream Keyers
DSK TIE
The DSK TIE button will enable the DSK on the preview output, along with the next transition effects, and tie
it to the main transition control so that the DSK can be taken to air with the next transition.
Because the tied downstream keyer is now tied to the main transition, the transition will happen at the rate
ON ON ON specified in the transition rate display of the transition control block. When the DSK is tied, the signal routing
to the clean feed 1 is unaffected.
KEY 2 KEY 3 KEY 4 DSK 1 DSK 2
TIE TIE
DSK CUT
The DSK CUT button is used to cut the DSK on or off air and indicates whether the DSK is currently on or off
air. The button is illuminated if the DSK is currently on air.
E

PE

DSK AUTO
The DSK AUTO button will mix the DSK on or off air at the rate specified in the DSK rate window.
DSK 1 DSK 2
CUT CUT

TO
DSK 1 DSK 2
FTB
Fade to Black
AUTO AUTO

FTB
The FTB button will fade the program output to black at the rate specified in the FTB rate window. Once the
Downstream Keyers and program output has been faded to black, the FTB button will remain illuminated red until it is pressed again,
Fade to Black fading the program output up from black at the same rate. A fade to black cannot be previewed.

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 2 3

5 6

8 9

41 Using the ATEM 1 M/E Broadcast Panel

0 CLR

System Status
The status lights provide feedback on the power supplies connected to the broadcast panel and the
switcher. Not all ATEM switcher models have redundant power supplies so sometimes you will only see a
DSK 1
TIE
DSK 2
TIE
single light illuminated for the power status of the switcher.
However if your switcher model has redundant power and you have connected two power supplies to
Power Status the switcher and the control panel, then all the lights should be on. In this situation where you are using
redundant power supplies, any light that turns off could indicate a power supply is faulty, and this should
be checked.
DSK 1 DSK 2
CUT CUT

KEY KEY KEY KEY

System Control 1 2 3
1 2 3 4

DSK 1 DSK 2
FTB
The twelve menu buttons, the display window, the four knobs and the four soft buttons under the knobs
4 5 6
AUTO AUTO
together are called the system control. The 4 line display is used to identify the operation of the soft buttons
LUMA CHROMA PATTRN
KEY KEY KEY DVE

7 8 9

MASK
MENU
and knobs.
HOME
CAM 0 CLR

The system control is context sensitive and allows you to adjust parameters for the current operation. For
System Control
example if you enable KEY 1 in your next transition, the system control allows you to adjust the parameters
of KEY 1. The system control is also used for configuring other parts of the switcher.

Menu Buttons
ON
The matrix of menu buttons are organized into a multi level tree structure of pages that are very easy to
ON ON ON

navigate. To assist in rapid navigation all menu pages have a HOME button at the bottom right and most
CUT

FILL
BKGD KEY 1
operations only require navigating down one level.
KEY 2 KEY 3 KEY 4 DSK 1
TIE
DSK 2
TIE

DIP DVE
Joystick and Numeric Keypad
1 2 3
MIX WIPE
The Number Pad is used to enter numerical data. For example, when setting the transition rate of a
transition, the number pad can be used to enter a numerical value for the transition duration. When entering
4 5 6

7 8 9
SHIFT
data using the number pad, the soft buttons below each parameter are used to apply the entered data to
DSK 1
CUT
DSK 2
CUT

CAM 0 CLR that parameter.

PREV
TRANS CUT AUTO The Joystick is a 3-axis joystick that is used to size and position keys, DVEs and other elements.
DSK 1
AUTO
DSK 2
AUTO
FTB

Joystick Control

ON ON ON ON

KGD KEY 1 KEY 2 KEY 3 KEY 4 DSK 1 DSK 2

TIE TIE

DIP DVE

MIX WIPE

DSK 1 DSK 2
CUT CUT

DSK 1 DSK 2
UT AUTO FTB
AUTO AUTO

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 42 Operating Your ATEM Switcher

Internal Video Sources

In addition to the SDI and HDMI inputs into the switcher, the switcher also has 8 internal sources that can
be used in a production. The internal source names are represented on the software control panel using a
long name. On the broadcast panel, a short name is used to represent the internal sources, and the labels
represent what the sources are, so they are easy to understand.

Black
Internally generated black is available as a source and can be used as a black matte in the production.

Color Bars
Internally generated color bars are available as a source. Color bars can be useful for verifying signals going
out of the switcher and can also be useful when setting up a chroma key with a vectorscope monitor.

Color Generators
ATEM has two color sources that can be customized to generate any color matt for use in the production.
Color sources can be used to add color borders for wipe transitions or as dip through colors for a dip
transition such as dip through white.
To adjust a color source on the software control panel, simply go to the color palette and click the color
chip, and the color picker will appear and you can select colors. On the broadcast panel, select color on the
system control, and adjust hue, saturation and luminance. It’s important to know that the deepest colors are
set at 50% luminance.

Media Players
The switcher has two media player sources, each has a fill and key (cut) output. Media player fill sources are
called media player 1 and media player 2, and two media player key sources are called media player 1 key
and media player 2 key.
The media player sources are used to play stills and clips from the media pool. The fill sources show the
color channels of the selected clip or still while the key sources show the black and white alpha channel of
the selected clip or still. Media players can be used in many parts of the production.

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 43 Operating Your ATEM Switcher

Controlling media players on the software control panel

Step 1. From the switcher tab, select the media player palette.
Step 2. Use the select media drop down list to select a clip or still from the media pool. Clip and still
locations which have media loaded will display a filename in the drop down list.
Step 3. If you have selected a motion clip, the begin, step back, play/pause, step forward and loop
transport controls will be enabled for controlling the clip. If you want to loop a clip, then select the
loop button and press play. The media player will keep looping until selected to stop.

Controlling media players on the broadcast panel

Step 1. From the system control menu buttons, navigate to the Media Player menu by selecting MEDIA
PLAYER from the HOME menu.
Step 2. Select the media player you want to control.
Step 3. Select stills or clips mode.
Step 4. In stills mode, use the rotary encoder or the STEP BCK and STEP FWD buttons to select a still
from the media pool. In this panel, you see only the still number to show what still you have
selected.
Step 5. In clip mode, use the rotary encoder to select clip 1 or clip 2. If a clip is loaded in the media pool,
the transport controls will be enabled and can be used to play/pause, jump to begin and loop the
clip. You cannot step forward and step back on a clip from the broadcast panel.

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 44 Operating Your ATEM Switcher

Cut Transitions
The cut is the most basic transition that can be performed on the switcher. In a cut transition the program
output is immediately changed from one source to another.

Program output for a cut transition.

A cut transition can be performed directly from the program bus, or using the CUT button in the transition
control block.

Program Bus
When a cut transition is performed from the program bus, only the background will be changed, and all
upstream and downstream keys will maintain their current state.

To perform a cut transition from the program bus on the software control panel
Step 1. On the program bus, select the video source that you want on the program output. The program
output will immediately change to the new source.

To perform a cut transition on the software control panel using a keyboard

Step 1. Enable <caps lock> or press and hold the <shift> key.
Step 2. Press the number key on the keyboard corresponding to the video source that you want on the
program output. The program output will immediately change to the new source.

To perform a cut transition from the program bus on the broadcast panel
Step 1. On the program bus, select the video source that you want on the program output. The program
output will immediately change to the new source.

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 45 Operating Your ATEM Switcher

CUT Button
When a cut transition is performed using the CUT button, any upstream keys that were selected in the next
transition and any downstream keys that were tied to the transition control will also change state. They will
be cut on if they were off and cut off if they were on.

To perform a cut transition using the CUT button on the software control panel
Step 1. On the preview bus, select the video source that you want on the program output.
The program output will remain unchanged.
Step 2. In the transition control block, press the CUT button. The sources selected on the program and
preview buses are exchanged to indicate that the video source that was on preview is now on
program and vice versa.

To perform a cut transition on the software control panel using a keyboard

Step 1. Ensure that <caps lock> is off.
Step 2. Press the number key on the keyboard corresponding to the video source that you want on the
program output. The source will be selected on preview and the program output will remain
unchanged.
Step 3. Press <spacebar>. The sources selected on the program and preview buses are exchanged to
indicate that the video source that was on preview is now on program and vice versa.

To perform a cut transition using the CUT button on the broadcast panel
Step 1. On the preview bus, select the video source that you want on the program output. The
program output will remain unchanged.
Step 2. In the transition control block, press the CUT button. The sources selected on the program and
preview buses are exchanged to indicate that the video source that was on preview is now on
program and vice versa.
It's recommended to use the transition control block to perform transitions because it provides
the opportunity to verify the video content on the preview output before sending it to the
program output, for example to verify that a camera is in focus.

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 46 Operating Your ATEM Switcher

Auto Transitions
An auto transition allows you to automatically transition between program and preview sources at a
predetermined rate. Any upstream keys that were selected in the next transition and any downstream keys
that were tied to the transition control will also change state. Auto transitions are performed using the auto
button in the transition control block. Mix, dip, wipe, DVE and stinger transitions can all be performed as an
AUTO transition.

To perform an auto transition on the software control panel

Step 1. On the preview bus, select the video source that you want on the program output.
Step 2. Select the transition type using the TRANSITION STYLE buttons in the transition control block.
Step 3. In the transition palette, select the settings tab for the same transition type as the transition control
block.
Step 4. Set the transition rate and adjust any other parameter for the transition as needed.
Step 5. Press the AUTO button in the transition control block to initiate the transition.
Step 6. During the transition, the red and green buttons on the program and preview buses both turn red
to indicate that you are in the middle of a transition. The virtual fader bar automatically follows
the progress of the transition and the rate display updates to indicate the number of frames
remaining as the transition progresses.
Step 7. At the end of the transition, sources selected on the program and preview buses are exchanged
to indicate that the video source that was on preview is now on program and vice versa.

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 47 Operating Your ATEM Switcher

To perform an auto transition on the software control panel using a keyboard

Step 1. Ensure that <caps lock> is off.
Step 2. Press the number key on the keyboard corresponding to the video source that you want on the
program output. The source will be selected on preview and the program output will remain
unchanged.
Step 3. Select the transition type using the transition style buttons in the transition control block.
Step 4. In the transition palette, select the settings tab for the same transition type as the transition control
block.
Step 5. Set the transition rate and adjust any other parameter for the transition as needed.
Step 6. Press the <return> or <enter> key to initiate the transition.
Step 7. During the transition, the red and green buttons on the program and preview buses both turn red
to indicate that you are in the middle of a transition. The virtual fader bar automatically follows
the progress of the transition and the rate display updates to indicate the number of frames
remaining as the transition progresses.
Step 8. At the end of the transition, sources selected on the program and preview buses are exchanged
to indicate that the video source that was on preview is now on program and vice versa.

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 48 Operating Your ATEM Switcher

To perform an auto transition on the broadcast panel

Step 1. On the preview bus, select the video source that you want on the program output.
Step 2. Select the transition type using the transition type buttons in the transition control block.
Step 3. In the system control, set the transition rate and adjust any other parameter for the transition
as needed.
Step 4. Press the AUTO button in the transition control block to initiate the transition.
Step 5. During the transition, the red and green buttons on the program and preview buses both
turn red to indicate that you are in the middle of a transition. The fader bar indicator
displays the position and progress of the transition and the transition rate display updates
to indicate the number of frames remaining as the transition progresses.
Step 6. At the end of the transition, sources selected on the program and preview buses are
exchanged to indicate that the video source that was on preview is now on program and
vice versa.
Each transition type has its own independent transition rate allowing the operator to perform
faster transitions by simply selecting the transition type and pressing the AUTO button.
The previously used transition rate is remembered for that transition type until it is changed.

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 49 Operating Your ATEM Switcher

A production switcher provides multiple methods of transitioning from one shot to another. Generally,
you use a simple cut transition to move from one background source to another. Mix, dip, wipe and
DVE transitions allow you to transition between two background sources by gradually phasing out one
and phasing in another. Stinger and graphic wipe are special transitions which will be covered in a later
section. Mix, dip, wipe and DVE transitions are performed as an auto transition or manual transition using
the transition control block.

Mix Transitions
A mix is a gradual transition from one source to another and is achieved by interpolating gradually between
two sources, effectively overlapping the sources for the duration of the effect. The length of the transition or
length of the overlap can be adjusted by changing the mix rate.

Mix Transition Settings

Program output for a mix transition.

To perform a mix transition on the software control panel

Step 1. On the preview bus, select the video source that you want on the program output.
Step 2. Select the mix transition style in the transition control block.
Step 3. Expand the transition palette and select mix from the transition types bar.
Step 4. Adjust the mix rate by entering a number in the rate window. The rate display in the transition
control block will update.
Step 5. Perform the transition as an auto transition or manual transition from the transition control
block.

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 50 Operating Your ATEM Switcher

Transition To perform a mix transition on the broadcast panel

Mix Dip FTB Step 1. On the preview bus, select the video source that you want on the program output.
1:00 1:00 1:00 Step 2. Press the MIX/DIP button to select the mix transition type. The system control automatically
Set Rate Set Rate Set Rate navigates to the transition menu. To manually navigate to the transition menu press HOME >
TRANS.
Step 3. In the transition menu, use the knob to adjust the mix rate. The transition rate display in the
transition control block will update dynamically. You can also enter a rate duration using the
number pad followed by the set rate button.
Step 4. Perform the transition as an auto transition or manual transition from the transition control block.

Mix Transition Parameters

Mix The mix transition rate in seconds : frames.

Dip Transitions
A DIP is similar to a mix in that it is a gradual transition that transitions from one source to another. However,
a dip transition gradually mixes through a third source, the dip source. For example, the dip transition
can be used for a transition that calls for a white flash or a transition that quickly flashes the sponsor logo.
The length of the dip transition and the dip source can both be customized.

Program output for a dip transition.

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 51 Operating Your ATEM Switcher

To perform a dip transition on the software control panel

Step 1. On the preview bus, select the video source that you want on the program output.
Step 2. Select the DIP transition style in the transition control block.
Step 3. Expand the transition palette and select dip from the transition types bar.
Step 4. Adjust the dip rate by entering a number in the rate window. The rate display in the transition
control block will update.
Step 5. Select the dip source.
Dip Transition Settings Step 6. Perform the transition as an auto transition or manual transition from the transition control block.

To perform a dip transition on the broadcast panel

Step 1. On the preview bus, select the video source that you want on the program output.
Step 2. Press the SHIFT and DIP/MIX buttons to select the dip transition type. The DIP/MIX button
illuminates green. The system control automatically navigates to the transition menu. To manually
navigate to the transition menu press HOME > TRANS.
Step 3. In the system control use the rotary encoder to adjust the dip rate. The transition rate display
in the transition control block will update dynamically. You can also enter a rate duration
using the number pad followed by the set rate button.
Step 4. Use the select bus to select the dip source.
Step 5. Perform the transition as an auto transition or manual transition from the transition control
block.

Dip transition parameters

Dip Source Menu Rate The dip transition rate in seconds and frames.
Dip Source The dip source is any video signal in the switcher that will be used as the
intermediate picture for the dip transition, usually a color generator or media
player.

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 52 Operating Your ATEM Switcher

Wipe Transitions
A wipe is a transition from one source to another and is achieved by replacing the current source by another
source with a pattern that forms a shape. For example an expanding circle or diamond.

Program output for a wipe transition.

To perform a wipe transition on the software control panel

Step 1. On the preview bus, select the video source that you want on the program output.
Step 2. Select the WIPE transition style in the transition control block.
Step 3. Expand the transition palette and select wipe from the transition types bar.
Step 4. Use the settings in the wipe palette to customise the wipe transition.
Step 5. Perform the transition as an auto transition or manual transition from the transition control
block.

To perform a wipe transition on the broadcast panel

Step 1. On the preview bus, select the video source that you want on the program output.
Step 2. Press the WIPE button to select the wipe transition type. The system control automatically
navigates to the wipe patterns menu. To manually navigate to the wipe patterns menu press
HOME > TRANS > WIPE PATTRN.
Step 3. Use the system control menu buttons to select the wipe pattern.
Step 4. Use the system control rotary encoders and buttons to adjust border parameters and specify
Wipe Transition Settings
wipe direction. You can also enter a rate duration using the number pad followed by the set
rate button.
Step 5. Use the select bus to select the border source.
Step 6. Perform the transition as an auto transition or manual transition from the transition control
block.

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 53 Operating Your ATEM Switcher

Wipe transition parameters

Border Width of the border.
Symmetry Symmetry can be used to control the aspect ratio of the pattern. For example,
adjusting the symmetry will allow you to change a circle into an ellipse. On the
broadcast panel symmetry can be adjusted using the z axis of the joystick.
Soft The edges of the wipe pattern can be adjusted between sharp and fuzzy by
adjusting the softness parameter.
Rate The length of the wipe transition in seconds and frames.
Normal The normal direction for closed patterns such as circles, diamonds and boxes is
to grow from the center of the screen and progress outward.
Reverse Reverse changes the progression of closed patterns such as circles, diamonds
and boxes so that the pattern closes in from the edges of the screen toward the
center.
FlipFlop When FlipFlop mode is toggled on, the transition changes between normal to
reverse every time the transition is executed.
Position If the wipe pattern has positioning then the joystick on the broadcast panel or
the x position: and y position: boxes in the transition palette of the software
control panel can be used to move the center of the pattern. Moving the joystick
dynamically updates the x and y position display in the software control panel.

The border source used in a wipe transition can be any source in the switcher. For example, a thick border
with the media player as its source can be used for sponsorship or branding.

DVE Transitions
The ATEM 1 M/E and 2 M/E Production Switchers include a powerful digital video effects processor for DVE
transitions. A DVE transition displaces the image in various ways to transition from one picture to another.
For example, a DVE transition can be used to squeeze the current picture off screen revealing a new video
under it. The length of the dip transition and the dip source can both be customized.

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 54 Operating Your ATEM Switcher

To perform a DVE transition on the software control panel

Step 1. On the preview bus, select the video source that you want on the program output.
Step 2. Select the DVE transition style in the transition control block.
Step 3. Expand the transition palette and select DVE from the transition types bar.
If the DVE is being used in an upstream key, the DVE transition style button will be unavailable
for selection until the key is taken off air and off next transition. Refer to sharing DVE resources
below for more information.
Step 4. Use the settings in the DVE palette to customise the transition.
Step 5. Perform the transition as an auto transition or manual transition from the transition control
block.

To perform a DVE transition on the broadcast panel

Step 1. On the preview bus, select the video source that you want on the program output.
Step 2. Press the SHIFT and WIPE/DVE buttons to select the DVE transition type. The WIPE/DVE
button illuminates green. The system control automatically navigates to the DVE pattern menu.
To manually navigate to the DVE pattern menu press HOME > TRANS > DVE PATTRN.
If the DVE is already being used in an upstream key, the message DVE unavailable will be
displayed and the DVE transition type will not be available for selection until the key is taken
off air and off next transition. Refer to sharing DVE resources below for more information.
Step 3. Use the system control menu buttons to select the DVE effects, graphic effects and to enable/
disable the DVE Key.
Step 4. Use the rotary encoders and buttons in the system control to customize the DVE transition.
You can also enter a DVE rate duration using the number pad followed by the set rate button.
Step 5. Use the select bus to select the logo fill source.
Step 6. Press the CUT/FILL button and use the select bus to select the logo cut source.
Step 7. Perform the transition as an auto transition or manual transition from the transition control block.

DVE Transition Settings

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 55 Operating Your ATEM Switcher

DVE transition parameters

DVE Rate The duration of the DVE transition in seconds and frames. Rotate the DVE rate
rotary encoder to adjust the DVE transition rate. The new rate is immediately
displayed in the transition rate window in the transition control block.
Normal The normal direction applies the DVE effect on program, revealing the preview
channel.
Reverse Reverse changes the direction so that the DVE effect is applied on the preview
channel. In the case of reverse, program is covered by a DVE effect with the
preview video.
FlipFlop When FlipFlop mode is toggled on, the transition changes between normal and
reverse every time the transition is executed.

DVE key parameters

Enable Enables/disables the DVE key. The DVE key is enabled when the button is
illuminated.
PreMult Selects the DVE key as a pre-multiplied key.
Clip The clip level adjusts the threshold at which the key cuts its hole. Decreasing the
clip level reveals more of the background. If the background video is completely
black then the clip value is too low.
Gain The gain adjustment electronically modifies the angle between on and off
thereby softening the edges of the key. Adjust the gain value until the edge
softness is desirable but the background video luminance (brightness) is not
affected.
Inverse When the key is not pre-multiplied, inverts the key signal.

Sharing DVE resources

There is one DVE channel in the ATEM 1 M/E and 2 M/E Production Switchers which can be used to perform
DVE transitions or it can be used in an upstream keyer. The ATEM Television Studio does not have any
DVE channels available. When you select a DVE transition, if the DVE is used elsewhere in the system, the
DVE transition type will not be available and, on the broadcast panel, a DVE unavailable message will be
displayed. In order to use the DVE transition you must free the DVE from where it is currently used. Verify
that the upstream keys currently on program or preview are not DVE keys and do not have fly key enabled.
To free DVE from the upstream keyer, change the key type to anything other than DVE or disable fly key. The
DVE will be released and therefore available for use as a DVE transition.

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 56 Operating Your ATEM Switcher

The graphic transition is a popular transition that uses the DVE and moves a graphic across the screen over
a background transition. For example, the graphic wipe moves a graphic over a horizontal wipe, essentially
replacing the wipe border. A graphic mix, spins the graphic across the screen over a mix transition. Graphic
transitions are perfect for wiping the station logo or spinning a football across the screen revealing a new
background. Graphic transitions use a special keyer built into the transition block, leaving all of the upstream
and downstream keyers available for compositing the output. The following section explains how to build
and perform graphic transitions.

The above image sequence provides an example of the program output for a graphic wipe transition.

Performing a Graphic Transition

To perform a graphic transition on the software control panel
Step 1. Select the DVE transition style button in the transition control block.
If the DVE is being used in an upstream key, the DVE transition style button will be unavailable
for selection until the key is taken off air and off next transition. Refer to sharing DVE resources
below for more information.
Step 2. Expand the transition palette and select the DVE transition type.
Step 3. From the graphic effects: buttons, select one of the graphic effects buttons.
Step 4. Select the fill source and key source for the graphic from the drop down list.
Step 5. Adjust the key parameters if required.
Step 6. Perform the transition as an auto transition or manual transition from the transition control
block.
DVE Transition Settings

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 57 Operating Your ATEM Switcher

To perform a graphic transition on the broadcast panel

Step 1. Select DVE as the transition type by pressing the SHIFT and DVE/WIPE buttons simultaneously.
The DVE is illuminated green indicating that the DVE transition type is selected.
If the DVE is already being used in an upstream key, the message DVE unavailable will be
displayed and the DVE transition type will be unavailable for selection until the key is taken
off air and off preview. Refer to sharing DVE resources below for more information.
Step 2. From the system control menu buttons, push next until you are on the DVE Graphics menu,
You can also navigate to the DVE menu by selecting TRANS > DVE PATTRN from the home
menu and pushing next to get to the DVE Graphic page.
Step 3. Select one of the two graphic mix buttons, depending on which way you want your graphic
to spin across the screen.
Step 4. Select the logo fill source and logo key source for the graphic from the select bus.
Step 5. Set the rate and any other key parameters if required.
Step 6. Perform the transition as an auto transition or manual transition from the transition control
block.

Description of graphic wipe parameters

Fill Source The fill signal is the color graphic you will use on top of the transition.
Key Source The key signal is a grayscale image that defines the region in the graphic that will
be removed so that the fill signal can be correctly stacked on top of the wipe.
Normal The normal direction moves the graphic from left to right.
Reverse Reverse changes the direction so that is moves the graphic from right to left.
FlipFlop When FlipFlop mode is toggled on, the transition changes between normal and
reverse every time the transition is executed. The normal or reverse light indicates
the direction of the next transition.
Rate Rate specifies the length of the transition in seconds and frames. The rate can be
adjusted using the rate knob or by entering a number on the number pad and
pressing the set rate button.

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 58 Operating Your ATEM Switcher

Sharing DVE resources

The one DVE channel available in the switcher can be used to perform DVE transitions or it can be used
in an upstream keyer. When you select a DVE transition, if the DVE is used elsewhere in the system, the
DVE transition type will not be available and, on the broadcast panel, a DVE unavailable message will be
displayed. In order to use the graphic wipe transition you must free the DVE from where it is currently used.
Verify that the upstream keys currently on program or preview are not DVE keys and do not have fly key
enabled. To free DVE from the upstream keyer, change the key type to anything other than DVE or disable
fly key. The DVE will be released and therefore available for use as a graphic wipe.

Graphic wipe images

The graphic wipe feature requires a static or animated graphic that is used as a moving border for a
horizontal wipe. This graphic should be a vertical ‘banner’ type graphic that is no more than 25% of the total
screen width.

Graphic wipe screen width requirements

1080i If the switcher is operating at 1080i then the graphic should be no wider than 480
pixels.
720p If the switcher is operating at 720p than the graphic should be no wider than 320
pixels.
SD If the switcher is operating in Standard Definition then the graphic then the
graphic should be no wider then 180 pixels.

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 59 Operating Your ATEM Switcher

On the ATEM 1 M/E and 2 M/E production switchers, the stinger transition uses a clip from the media player
to perform a transition. The clip is normally a graphic animation that is keyed over the background. As the
animation plays, when it is full screen, a cut or mix of the background is performed under the animation. For
example, this type of transition is very popular in sports productions for transitioning in and out of instant
replays. The stinger transition takes advantage of a special keyer that is built into the transition block, leaving
all of the upstream and downstream keyers available for compositing your output. The following section
explains how to build and perform stinger transitions.

Performing a Stinger Transition

To perform a stinger transition on the software control panel
Step 1. Select the STING transition style button in the transition control block.
Step 2. In the media player 1 or media player 2 palette, select the media you plan to use for the
transition.
Step 3. In the transition palette, select the stinger transition type.

Stinger Transition Settings Step 4. Select the media player source that has the clip you plan to use.
Step 5. Adjust the clip duration, trigger point, mix rate, and pre roll parameters if required.
Step 6. Perform the transition as an auto transition from the transition control block.
You cannot perform a manual stinger transition using the fader bar.

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 60 Operating Your ATEM Switcher

Software control panel stinger parameters

Source The media player which will be used to play the clip for the animated transition.
Pre Multiplied Key Identifies the key signal of the media player clip as a pre-multiplied key.
Clip The clip level adjusts the threshold at which the key cuts its hole into the clip that
is playing back through the media player. Decreasing the clip level reveals more
of the background. If the background video is completely black then the clip
value is too low.
Gain The gain adjustment electronically modifies the angle between on and off
thereby softening the edges of the key in the clip that is playing back on the
media player. Adjust the gain value until the edge softness is desirable but the
background video luminance (brightness) is not affected.
Invert Key Inverts the key.
Clip Duration Clip duration refers to the length of the animation. The duration should normally
match the length of the animation. It can also be used to trim out the end of the
clip.
Trigger Point Trigger point is the time at which the switcher will start the background mix
transition, which will occur under the animation. Usually, this is the point when the
animation is full screen.
Mix Rate The mix rate specifies the duration of the mix that will occur between preview
and program under the animation. To specify a cut instead of a mix simply set the
rate to 1 frame.
Pre Roll Pre roll is a trim in that can be used to trim the beginning of the clip. The
maximum preroll time is 3:00 seconds.

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 61 Operating Your ATEM Switcher

To perform a stinger transition on the broadcast panel

Step 1. From the system control menu buttons, navigate to the media player menu by selecting MEDIA
PLAYER from the home menu and select the media player you plan to use for the transition.
Step 2. Select the CLIPS button and then use the first rotary encoder knob to select between clip 1
and clip 2.
Step 3. Select stinger as the transition type by pressing the MIX/DIP and DVE/WIPE buttons
simultaneously. Both buttons are illuminated green indicating that the stinger transition
type is selected.
Step 4. From the system control menu buttons, select the media player you chose in step 1.
You can also navigate to the stinger menu by selecting TRANS > STINGER from the HOME
menu.
Step 5. Adjust the preroll, trigger, mix and duration times as needed.
Step 6. Set the logo rate and any other key parameters if required.
Step 7. Perform the transition as an auto transition from the transition control block.
You cannot perform a manual stinger transition using the fader bar.

Broadcast panel stinger transition parameters

preroll Preroll is a trim in that can be used to trim the beginning of the clip.
The maximum preroll time is 3:00 seconds.
trigger Trigger is the time at which the switcher will start the background mix transition,
which will occur under the animation. Usually, this is the point when the animation
is full screen.
mix Mix specifies the duration of the mix that will occur between preview and
program under the animation. To specify a cut instead of a mix simply set the
rate to 1 frame.
duration Duration refers to the length of the animation. The duration should normally
match the length of the animation. It can also be used to trim out the end of
the clip.

It is important to understand that the trigger, mix and duration times are dependant on one another.
For example the trigger + mix rate cannot be larger than the duration. Note also that the time displayed in
the transition rate window is equal to the duration + preroll.

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 62 Operating Your ATEM Switcher

Manual Transitions
Manual transitions allow you to manually transition between program and preview sources using the fader
bar in the transition control block. Mix, dip, wipe and DVE transitions can all be performed as a manual
transition.

To perform a manual transition on the software control panel or the broadcast panel
Step 1. On the preview bus, select the video source that you want on the program output.
Step 2. Select the transition type using the transition type buttons in the transition control block.
Step 3. Manually move the fader bar from one end to the other to execute the transition.
The next fader bar move will begin a new transition.
Step 4. During the transition the red and green buttons on the program and preview buses both turn red
to indicate that you are in the middle of a transition. On the broadcast panel, the fader bar indicator
also displays the position and progress of the transition. On the software control panel, the virtual
fader bar displays the position and progress of the transition.
Step 5. At the end of the transition sources selected on the program and preview buses are exchanged
to indicate that the video source that was on preview is now on program and vice versa.

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 63 Operating Your ATEM Switcher

Preview Transition
ATEM switchers have a powerful feature which allows you to review and adjust a transition on the preview
output. The preview transition mode lets you verify a transition before actually performing it on air.
To preview a transition on the software control panel or the broadcast panel:
Step 1. On the preview bus, select the video source that you want on the program output.
Step 2. Select the transition type using the transition type buttons in the transition control block.
Step 3. Press the PREV TRANS button to put the switcher into preview transition mode. The PREV
TRANS button will illuminate red and the preview output will change so that it is a copy of
the program output.
Step 4. Manually move the fader bar from one end to the other to preview the transition on the
preview output. The program output will remain unchanged.
Step 5. Press the PREV TRANS button or return the fader bar to it's starting position to turn off preview
transition mode.
Returning the fader bar to it's starting position will automatically disable preview transition mode
and turn off the red light on the PREV TRANS button. Moving the fader bar after the light is off will
take the transition on the program output.

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 64 Operating Your ATEM Switcher

Keying on ATEM Switchers

Keyers are a powerful production tool allowing multiple layers of video and graphics to be stacked on top
of the background. When a new layer of video is stacked on the background, the video or graphic needs to
be cut out so that the background video can be seen. The process of cutting out parts of the layered picture
and revealing the background is called keying. There are various methods that can be used to cut a hole
in the image. The various methods correspond to the different types of keys available on the switcher. The
following section explains luma, linear, chroma, pattern and DVE keys, all of which can be used in both the
upstream and downstream keyers.

Understanding Keying
A key requires two video sources; the fill signal and the key or cut signal. The fill signal contains a video
image which is to be stacked on top of the background, while the key signal is used to select regions of
the fill signal to be removed or cut out. The fill and key signals can be selected from any of the switcher's
external inputs or internal sources, allowing both still and moving images to be used as fill or key sources.
Fill and key signals are selected on the software control panel from drop down lists in the upstream and
downstream key palettes. On the broadcast panel, fill and key signals are selected using the select bus.
There are two types of keyers used in the switcher; upstream keyers and downstream keyers. Four upstream
keyers, also known as effects keyers, are available in the switcher's M/E block. Each upstream keyer can be
set up as a luma, linear, pre-multiplied, chroma, pattern or DVE key. Two downstream keyers are available in
the dedicated DSK block. Each downstream keyer can be set up as a luma or linear key.

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 65 Operating Your ATEM Switcher

Luma Key
A luma key or self key consists of one video source containing the video image that will be stacked on top of
the background. All of the black areas defined by the luminance in the video signal will be removed or cut
out so that the background can be revealed underneath. Since only one image is used to define the areas
to be cut out, a luma key uses the same signal for fill and key. The following images are an example of what
background, luma key signals and the resulting combined image might look like.

Combining a background and fill/key in a luma key

Background - a full screen image, often a camera source.

Fill - the graphic you plan to display on top of your background video. Notice that the final composition
does not retain any black from the graphic because all of the black parts have been cut out of the image.

Linear Key
A linear key consists of two video sources; the fill signal and the key or cut signal. The fill signal contains
a video image which is to be stacked on top of the background, while the key signal contains a grayscale
mask and is used as a blueprint to select regions of the fill signal to be removed or cut out. Since both the
fill and key signals are video inputs, both signals can be in motion while on screen. The following images
are examples of what background, fill and key signals, and the resulting combined image might look like.

Combining a background, fill and key in a linear key

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 66 Operating Your ATEM Switcher

Background - a full screen image, often a camera source.

Fill - the graphic you plan to display on top of your background video. Notice that the black parts of the
graphic remain intact because the key signal is used to cut out the fill signal. The fill signal is often provided
by a graphics system.
Key - a grayscale image that defines the region in the image that will be removed so that the fill signal can
be correctly stacked on top of the background. The key signal is often provided by a graphics system.

Pre-multiplied Key
A modern graphics system or character generator that offers fill and key outputs will most likely provide
what is known as a pre-multiplied or shaped key. A pre-multiplied key is a special combination of the fill
and key signal where the fill signal has been pre-multiplied with the key signal over a black background.
Photoshop generated images that contain an alpha channel are pre-multiplied.
ATEM switchers have an auto key adjustment for pre-multiplied keys so that when the pre-multiplied key
setting is enabled, the clip and gain parameters are automatically set by the system.
When using a Photoshop generated image, generate graphics over a black background layer and place
all content on the upper layers. You also need to make sure you have created an alpha channel in your
Photoshop document that the ATEM can use for blending the graphic over the live video. Then when saved
as a Targa image file, or downloaded direct to the media pool, you can select pre-multiplied in the keyer
to get a good key. Photoshop documents are pre-multiplied by nature, so you should always use the pre-
multiplied settings on the ATEM switcher when keying them.

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 67 Operating Your ATEM Switcher

Performing an Upstream Luma/Linear Key

Since luma and linear keys use the same parameters, they are set up on the software control panel and
broadcast panel using a common menu, called the luma key menu. What defines the key as being either
luma or linear is in the selection of fill and key sources. In a luma key, fill and key sources are the same.
For a linear key, fill and key sources are different.

To set up a luma/linear key on upstream keyer 1 on the software control panel:

Step 1. Expand the upstream key 1 M/E 1 palette and select luma from the key types bar.
Step 2. Select the fill source and key source.
If performing a luma key, select the same source for both fill and key.
Adjust the key parameters to refine the key. For a description of luma key parameters, refer to the table
below.

To set up a luma/linear key on upstream keyer 1 on the broadcast panel:

Step 1. Press the KEY 1 button in the transition control block to enable the keyer on the preview output.
The system control will dynamically navigate to the KEY 1 menu. You can manually navigate to the
KEY 1 menu by pressing HOME > EFFECTS KEYS > KEY 1.
Step 2. Select the LUMA KEY menu button.
Step 3. The destination display will say key1fill. Select the fill source on the select bus.
Step 4. Hold down the CUT/FILL button so the destination display says key1 cut and select the key
source.
If performing a luma key, select the same source for both fill and key.
Step 5. Adjust the clip and gain controls to refine the key or press the pre-mult button for pre-multipled
keys. The clip and gain controls are not available for pre-multipled keys.
Luma Key Settings

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 68 Operating Your ATEM Switcher

Upstream key luma/linear key parameters:

Mask Enables a rectangular mask that can then be adjusted using the top, bottom, left
and right parameters.
Pre-Mult Identifies the key signal as a pre-multiplied key.
Clip The clip level adjusts the threshold at which the key cuts its hole. Decreasing the
clip level reveals more of the background. If the background video is completely
black then the clip value is too low.
Gain The gain adjustment electronically modifies the angle between on and off thereby
softening the edges of the key. Adjust the gain value until the edge softness is
desirable but the background video luminance or brightness is not affected.
Inverse Inverts the key signal.
Fly Key Enables/disables DVE effects

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 69 Operating Your ATEM Switcher

Performing a Downstream Luma/Linear Key

To set up a luma/linear key on downstream keyer 1 on the software control panel:
Step 1. Select the downstream key 1 palette.
Step 2. Use the drop down controls labeled fill source and key source to specify the fill and key
sources.
If performing a luma key, select the same source for both fill and key.
Step 3. Adjust the key parameters to refine the key.

To set up a luma/linear key on downstream keyer 1 on the broadcast panel:

Step 1. Press the DSK 1 TIE button to enable the downstream keyer on the preview output. The system
control will dynamically navigate to the DSK 1 menu. You can manually navigate to the DSK 1
Downstream Keyer Settings menu by pressing HOME > DSK KEYS > DSK 1.
Step 2. The destination display will say DSK1 fill. Select the fill source on the select bus.
Step 3. Hold down the CUT/FILL button so the destination display says DSK1 cut and select the key
source on the select bus.
If performing a luma key, select the same source for both fill and key.
Step 4. Adjust the clip and gain controls to refine the key or press the pre-mult button for pre-multipled
keys. The clip and gain controls are not available for pre-multipled keys.

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 70 Operating Your ATEM Switcher

Chroma Key
Chroma key is commonly used for weather broadcasts, where the meteorologist appears to be standing in
front of a large map. In the studio the presenter is actually standing in front of a blue or green background. In
a chroma key two images are combined using a special technique and a color from one image is removed,
revealing another image behind it. This technique is also referred to as color keying, color-separation
overlay, green screen, or blue screen.
A very common use for chroma keys for backgrounds is computer generated graphics. It’s simple to connect
an external computer to your ATEM switcher using the HDMI output of the computer or a video card such
as the Blackmagic Design DeckLink or Intensity range and then playback video clips to your ATEM switcher.
If you render a green background on your animations, you can then key this green to create fast and clean
animations of any length. Keying is easy as the green is computer generated so it’s a very flat color that's
easy to key.

Combining a background with a fill and chroma key/cut

Background - a full screen image; in the case of a chroma key it is often a weather map.
Fill - the image you plan to display on top of your background video. In the case of a chroma key this is the
camera that is pointing to the meteorologist in front of the green screen.
Key/Cut - In the case of a chroma key the key/cut signal is generated from the fill signal.
Chroma Key Settings

Performing an Upstream Chroma Key

To set up a chroma key on upstream keyer 1 on the software control panel:
Step 1. Expand the upstream key 1 M/E 1 palette and select chroma from the key types bar.
Step 2. Select the fill source.
Step 3. Adjust the key parameters to refine the key. For a description of chroma key parameters, refer to
the table below.

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 71 Operating Your ATEM Switcher

Step 1. To set up a chroma key on upstream keyer 1 on the broadcast panel:

Step 2. Press the KEY 1 button to enable the keyer on the preview output. The system control will
dynamically navigate to the KEY 1 menu. You can manually navigate to the KEY 1 menu by
pressing HOME > EFFECTS KEYS > KEY 1.
Step 3. Select the CHROMA KEY menu button.
Step 4. The destination display will say key1fill. Select the fill source on the select bus. Since the key signal
is automatically generated from the fill source, the cut source is ignored.
Step 5. Adjust the chroma key controls to refine the key.

Chroma key parameters:

Hue The hue adjustment selects the color that will be replaced. Rotate the hue knob
until the background keys through the desired color.
Gain The gain adjustment determines how the colors around the selected hue are
keyed. Adjust the gain knob until the edges of the keyed region appear the way
you want them.
Y Suppress The luminance suppression adjustment sets the black level of the region where
the chroma key level has been removed. Adjust the ysuppres knob until the black
level of the chroma removed region is correct.
Lift Lift should normally be set to zero for a well set up chroma key scene. Lift
allows very low saturation values of the keyed color to be excluded from the
key. Colored light spilling onto a neutral colored object in the foreground will
sometimes cause small areas to key to the background source. Lift allows you to
fill these small holes in the key signal.
Narrow The acceptance angle of colors around the selected hue should generally be
as broad as possible to achieve natural looking chroma Keys. Sometimes, if
some colors in the fill source are too close to the chroma key color, it may be
hard to exclude them from the key. Selecting the narrow button uses a smaller
acceptance angle around the chroma key color. Selecting narrow temporarily,
may help you center the hue adjustment.
Fly Key Enables/disables DVE effects

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 72 Operating Your ATEM Switcher

Adjusting parameters with a vectorscope

You may wish to set up a chroma key using color bars as the background source, and watching the result on
a vector scope as you perform the following procedure.
Step 1. Turn narrow off.
Step 2. Set lift to 0.
Step 3. Adjust the hue until the color hex dots are centered around black. Adjusting the hue knob
will offset the black point, and the constellation of the 6 color bar dots will rotate around the
screen.
Step 4. Adjust the gain until the color bars are near their target boxes on the vector scope. Adjusting
the gain will expand and contract the color vectors about the center.
Step 5. Adjust the ysuppres knob until the black level is correct.

Pattern Key
A pattern key is used to display a geometric cut out of one image on top of another image. In a pattern
key the key or cut signal is generated using the switcher’s internal pattern generator. The internal pattern
generator can create 18 shapes that can be sized and positioned to produce the desired key signal.

Combining a background with a fill and pattern key

Background A full screen image.

Fill Another full screen image you wish to overlay on top of the background.
Key/Cut In the case of a pattern key the key/cut signal is generated by the switcher’s internal
pattern generator.

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 73 Operating Your ATEM Switcher

Performing an Upstream Pattern Key

To set up a pattern key on upstream keyer 1 on the software control panel:
Step 1. Expand the upstream key 1 M/E 1 palette and select pattern from the key types bar.
Step 2. Select the fill source.
Step 3. Select the key pattern.
Step 4. Adjust the key parameters to refine the key. For a description of pattern key parameters, refer to
the table below.

To set up a pattern key on upstream keyer 1 on the broadcast panel:

Step 1. Press the KEY 1 button to enable the keyer on the preview output. The system control will
dynamically navigate to the KEY 1 menu. You can manually navigate to the KEY 1 menu by
pressing HOME > EFFECTS KEYS > KEY 1.
Step 2. Select the PATTRN KEY menu button.
Step 3. The destination display will say key1fill. Select the fill source on the select bus. Since the key signal
is automatically created by the internal pattern generator from the fill source, the cut source is
ignored.
Step 4. Select the PATTRN MENU button and use the menu buttons to select a pattern.
Step 5. Adjust the pattern key controls to refine the key.

Pattern key parameters:

Size Increases and decreases the size of the selected pattern.
Symmetry Some of the patterns may have their symmetry or aspect ratio adjusted. Circle
patterns may be adjusted to become horizontal or vertical ellipses. The symmetry
adjustment is on the z axis of the joystick when you are on the pattern selection
page of the keyer you are setting up. Twist the knob of the joystick to adjust its
Pattern Key Settings symmetry.
Soft Changes the softness of the edge of the key signal.
Inverse The reverse button is used to invert which region is filled with the fill source. For
example, fill a region outside of a circle by positioning the circle wipe as desired
and then selecting inverse.
Fly Key Enables/disables DVE effects

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 74 Operating Your ATEM Switcher

Adjusting the x/y position of a pattern

Some of the patterns may have their center point repositioned. To position a pattern, navigate to the
pattern selection page of the keyer you are setting up. Use the joystick to move the pattern vertically and
horizontally. To re-center the pattern, press the pattern select button of the current pattern in the menu. This
will reset the position and symmetry of the pattern.

DVE Key
DVEs (digital video effects) are used to create picture-in-picture boxes with borders. The ATEM 1 M/E and
2 M/E Production Switchers have 1 channel of 2D DVE that allows scaling, rotation, 3D borders and offers a
drop shadow. The ATEM Television Studio does not have any DVE channels.

Combining a background, DVE fill and DVE key/cut

Background - A full screen image.

Fill - Another full screen that has been scaled, rotated or has added borders and will be overlaid on top of
the background.
Key/Cut - In the case of a DVE key the key/cut signal is generated by the switcher’s internal DVE engine.

Performing an Upstream DVE Key

To set up a DVE key on upstream keyer 1 on the software control panel:
Step 1. Expand the upstream key 1 M/E 1 palette and select DVE from the key types bar.
Step 2. Select the fill source.
Step 3. Adjust the key parameters to refine the key. For a description of DVE key parameters, refer
to the table below.

DVE Key Settings

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 75 Operating Your ATEM Switcher

To set up a DVE key on upstream keyer 1 on the broadcast panel:

Step 1. Press the KEY 1 next transition button to enable the keyer on the preview output. The system
control will dynamically navigate to the KEY 1 menu. You can manually navigate to the KEY 1
menu by pressing HOME > EFFECTS KEYS > KEY 1.
Step 2. Select the DVE menu button.
Step 3. The destination display will say key1fill. Select the fill source on the select bus. Since the key signal
is automatically created by the DVE engine, the cut source is ignored.
Step 4. To enable the mask and adjust the mask parameters, select the MASK MENU button.
Step 5. To enable the drop shadow or border and adjust their parameters, select the BORDER menu
button. For a description of DVE borders, refer to the table below.

Adjusting the x/y position of the DVE

From the broadcast panel, the x/y position of the DVE is adjusted with the joystick. If SHIFT is held while
moving the joystick, the DVE will be rotated around its center point.

DVE parameters
X Size Adjusts the horizontal size of the DVE.
Y Size Adjusts the vertical size of the DVE.
Rotation Spin the box around its center point with the Rotation adjustment knob.
Rot Rst Resets the rotation of the DVE.
DVE Rst Resets the DVE to full screen with no borders. If you ever lose track of the DVE
during adjustment, you can press reset to bring the DVE to full screen, then
squeeze it back into position.

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 76 Operating Your ATEM Switcher

Adding DVE Borders

DVE border styles
The 3D borders used in the upstream keyers have four different style settings. The style settings adjust the
overall look of the border.

Style 1 No bevel - 2d border where the border width, softness and color adjustments are
applicable.
Style 2 Bevel in out - 3d border
Style 3 Bevel out - 3d border
Style 4 Bevel in - 3d border

DVE border parameters

The rotary encoders and soft buttons in the system control are used to adjust the border parameters.
There are multiple parameters, each requiring an adjustment, therefore the soft/color button and SHIFT
button is used to toggle the parameters that each rotary encoder adjusts.

Border Enables or disables the border.

Shadow Enables or disables drop shadow.
Soft/Color Toggles the control by the rotary encoders between color settings (including
light direction) and softness settings (including size). Capital letters indicate which
settings are currently selected for control.
Out Width Adjusts the outside width of the border.
Out Soft Outside softness adjusts the outside edge of the border, the edge that touches
the background video.
Bevel Soft Bevel softness adjusts the overall softness of the 3d border. A high value for this
parameter will result in a rounded or beveled border.
Opacity Opacity adjusts the transparency of the border, use this setting to create
interesting colored glass borders.
Hue Changes the border color. The hue value is a location on the color wheel.
Sat Changes the intensity of the border color.
Luma Change the brightness of the border color.
Lite Dir Adjusts the direction of the light source on the DVE or picture in picture. Both the
border and drop shadow, if available, are affected by changes to this setting.

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 77 Operating Your ATEM Switcher

Border menu parameters (hold shift button)

In Width Adjusts the inside width of the border.

In Soft Adjusts inside softness. This softness parameter adjusts the inside edge of the
border, the edge that touches the video.
Bevel Pos Adjusts the position of the 3D bevel on the border.
Lite Alt Adjusts the distance of the light source from the DVE or picture in picture. Both
the border and drop shadow, if available, are affected by changes to this setting.

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 78 Operating Your ATEM Switcher

Key Masking
Both upstream and downstream keyers have an adjustable rectangular mask that can be used to crop out
harsh edges and other artifacts in the video signal. The mask consists of left, right, top and bottom crop
controls. Masking can also be used as a creative tool to build rectangular cut outs on screen.
On the broadcast panel the mask is set up for each upstream and downstream key from the system control
mask menu which is available from the EFFECTS KEYS or DSK KEYS menus.
On the software control panel the mask is set up for each upstream or downstream key from the palettes in
the settings tab.

Fly Key
Luma, chroma and pattern upstream key types include a fly setting. If a DVE channel is available the Fly Key
setting allows DVE effects to be applied to the key.

Upstream keyer transitions

The upstream keyers are accessible from the transition control block or the system control. The upstream
keyers are taken on and off the program output using the next transition buttons or ON buttons.

ON buttons
Take the upstream keyers on or off the program output using the ON (on air) buttons as follows:
Step 1. Press the ON button above the corresponding next transition KEY button to immediately turn on
or turn off the upstream key on the program output.
The ON button also indicates if the upstream keyer is currently on or off the program output.

Next transition buttons

Take the upstream keyers on or off the program output using the next transition buttons as follows:
Step 1. Select the elements you wish to transition using the BKGD, KEY 1, KEY 2, KEY 3 and KEY 4 next
transition buttons.
Step 2. Verify the preview output, which will show you exactly what your program output will look
like after you perform the transition.
Step 3. Press CUT, AUTO, or use the fader bar to perform the transition.

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 79 Operating Your ATEM Switcher

Using Upstream Keyer Transitions

In order to help you understand the various ways in which multiple keys can be taken on and off the program
output, we have provided a few examples. In the examples below KEY 1 contains a live bug on the top left
of the screen while KEY 2 contains a bug at the bottom right hand side of the screen.

Example 1:
In this example none of the upstream keyers are currently on-air. The next transition has key 1 selected,
therefore the next transition will change the state of key 1 and turn it ON so that it is visible on the
program output.

Control panel next transition Program output before transition. Program output after transition.
buttons before transition.

Example 2:
In this example, key 1 is currently on air, indicated by the illuminated ON button. The next transition has Key 1
selected, therefore the next transition will change the state of key 1 and turn it OFF so that it is not visible
on the program output.

Control panel next transition Program output before transition. Program output after transition.
buttons before transition.

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 80 Operating Your ATEM Switcher

Using Upstream Keyer Transitions

Example 3:
In this example, key 1 and key 2 are on-air, indicated by the illuminated ON buttons. The next transition has
the background selected, indicated by the illuminated BKGD button, therefore the next transition will only
transition the background leaving both key 1 and key 2 on-air.

Control panel next transition Program output before transition. Program output after transition.
buttons before transition.

Example 4:
In this example, key 1 and key 2 are on-air. The next transition has the background and key 2 selected,
therefore the next transition will transition the background and change the state of key 2 turning it OFF so
that it is not visible on the program output.

Control panel next transition Program output before transition. Program output after transition.
buttons before transition.

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 81 Operating Your ATEM Switcher

There are multiple ways to transition a key to the program output. The key can be cut on or off, it can be
mixed on or off, or it can be mixed along with a background transition. Upstream keys are transitioned to
the program output using the next transition block. Downstream keyers can be transitioned using their own
transition buttons or by using the DSK TIE button to link the transition with the main transition control block.

Using Downstream Keyer Transitions

The downstream keyers have their own transition buttons and transition rate windows. Once a downstream
keyer is configured it can be easily taken on and off the program output using one of the following three
methods:
Step 1. Press the DSK CUT button to immediately turn on or turn off the downstream key on the program
output.
Step 2. Use the DSK AUTO button to gradually transition the downstream key on or off the program
output at the rate displayed in the DSK rate window.
Step 3. Use the DSK TIE button to link the downstream key with the main transition control block.
Once linked the DSK will be mixed on or off along with any transition type selected in the main
transition control block at the rate specified by the transition control block.
Pressing the DSK TIE button shows the downstream keyer on the preview output.
It is not possible to preview a downstream keyer transition when linked with the main transition
block. If the DSK TIE button is on when you switch to preview transition mode the tie functionality
will be ignored until the preview transition mode is turned off.

DSK parameters:
Clip The clip level adjusts the threshold at which the key cuts its hole. Decreasing the
clip level reveals more of the background. If the background video is completely
black then the clip value is too high.
Gain The gain adjustment electronically modifies the angle between on and off
thereby softening the edges of the key. Adjust the gain value until the edge
softness is desirable but the background video luminance (brightness) is not
affected.
Rate The mix rate at which the downstream keyer transitions on or off.
Inverse Inverts the key signal.
Pre-Mult Identifies the key signal as a pre-multiplied key.

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 82 Operating Your ATEM Switcher

Using Adobe Photoshop with ATEM

Installing the ATEM software on your computer also installs a Photoshop plug-in that lets you download
Photoshop graphics direct to the ATEM media pool.
This means you can accept graphics from designers in the application that 100% of the worlds designers
use, Adobe Photoshop! You can even use the layers in a Photoshop image to keep variations of graphics,
such as different titles in a graphic, and then select the layers in Photoshop you want, and then simply
download them at the press of a button. When downloading the layers are automatically flattened in real
time before download. This happens in the background and your document in Photoshop is unchanged
by the export.
The ATEM Export plug-in requires Adobe Photoshop CS 5 or later.

Setting up Plug-in Switcher Location

The first time the Photoshop export plug-in is run, it will ask you to select your switcher location. This is the
IP address of the switcher so the plug in can find the switcher to communicate with. By default, the IP is set
to 192.168.10.240, which is what the switcher IP address is originally set to when first sold.

Preparing Graphics for Download

For best results, you will want to use a Photoshop document resolution that matches the video standard
you’re using with your ATEM switcher. For 1080i HD you should use documents that are 1920 x 1080 pixels
in resolution. For 720p HD formats you should use 1280 x 720 pixels resolution. For PAL standard definition
you should use 720 x 576 and for NTSC you should use 720 x 486 pixels resolution documents.
When working with Photoshop documents for ATEM, you should not put any content on the background
layer, but add all content to the layers above. The background layer should always be plain full frame black,
and you should use a pre-multiplied key setting in the ATEM keyers for keying graphics from Photoshop.
To download the graphic to the ATEM media pool, simply select the export menu in Photoshop and then
select ATEM Switcher Media Pool to export. A window will appear asking you to choose which position in
the media pool you want to download to. The list includes all the file names of graphics currently loaded in
the media pool.
Select which position you would like to download to, and then select export. If you’re in a hurry to get your
graphics on air, then you can select to automatically copy this downloaded graphic to either media player 1
or media player 2 after download. This lets you get images to air fast! If you don't want to interfere with the
media player graphic sources, simply select not to copy the media players to this graphic.

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 83 Operating Your ATEM Switcher

Using Auxiliary Outputs

Auxiliary Outputs Control Menus on Mac OS X
The ATEM 1 M/E and 2 M/E production switchers have auxiliary outputs which are spare SDI outputs that
can have various inputs and internal sources routed to them. They are very similar to router outputs, and all
video inputs, color generators, media players, program, preview and even color bars can be output.
If you want an extra program output, then aux. outputs are perfect to use, or if you need a clean feed before
one or both of the down stream keyers, then you can even select these to the aux. outputs. This would
Auxiliary Outputs Control Menus on Windows give you a program feed without a logo or bug, so you can capture this as a broadcast master for later
transmission.
Aux. outputs are extremely powerful, and can be routed on the software control panel, as well as the
hardware based broadcast panel. The aux. output menus are available in the menu bar at the top of the
software control panel regardless of the tab currently selected so they are always available.
The switcher will always perform a clean switch when an auxiliary output changes sources so this means you
can use the switcher to cut between sources on the auxiliary output cleanly and without glitches.

Routing Auxiliary Outputs

On the ATEM software control each aux. output has a menu for selecting the source to output on the aux.
video output. Simply select the menu, and then scroll the list for the source you want to output. When
selected, the output on the selected aux. will change immediately. You can see the current source with a
tick in the menu item.
On the ATEM broadcast panel the aux. outputs are set from the aux. menu in the system control.
Once the desired aux. output is selected, you use the select bus to route the source to the aux.
output. Because the broadcast panel uses the select bus, it's very fast to control aux. outputs from the
broadcast panel.

List of Auxiliary Output Sources There is a range of sources available, and these include:
Black Black source generated internally in the switcher.
Inputs You will see the video inputs of the switcher listed, and these will be listed as the
current labels you have set in the settings tab of the switcher.
Color Bars Color bar source generated internally in the switcher.
Media Player 1 This is the fill output of media player 1, and is derived from the still or clips RGB
content.

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 84 Operating Your ATEM Switcher

Media Player 1 Key This is the key output from media player 1, and is derived from the still or clips alpha
content. After selecting the aux. you want to route to, simply hold shift and make
the selection on the select bus.
Media Player 2 This is the fill output of media player 2, and is derived from the still or clips RGB
content.
Media Player 2 Key This is the key output from media player 2, and is derived from the still or clips alpha
content. After selecting the aux. you want to route to, simply hold shift and make
the selection on the select bus.
Program This is the switcher program out, and is the same as the main program SDI output
on the switcher. After selecting the aux. you want to route to, simply hold the shift
button and cut/fill button and then make the selection on the select bus.
Preview This is the preview output and shows the source selected on the preview bus, and
is the same as the preview window in the multi view. After selecting the aux. you
want to route to, simply hold the shift button and cut/fill button and then make the
selection on the select bus.
Clean Feed 1 This is identical to the program output, however does not include any of the
downstream keyer contents. It’s useful when you want to record a master output
without logos or bugs on the downstream keyers. After selecting the aux. you
want to route to, simply hold the shift button and cut/fill button and then make the
selection on the select bus.
Clean Feed 2 This is the same as above, however this output is taken from between the two
down stream keyers, and so includes down stream keyer 1, but not down stream
keyer 2's output. After selecting the aux. you want to route to, simply hold the shift
button and cut/fill button and then make the selection on the select bus.
Using clean feeds on aux. outputs can allow you to output a local version of a live production with local
broadcast branding from the down stream keyer, but then get a super-less version for International broadcast
from the aux. output and clean feed. This is a very powerful feature!

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 85 Operating Your ATEM Switcher

Using the USB 3.0 Connection

Media Express
Media Express lets you capture from the ATEM switcher using a compatible Windows PC with USB 3.0. In
the current version of ATEM software USB 3.0 capture is not supported, however will be added in a free
software update coming soon.

UltraScope Waveform Monitoring

ATEM 1 M/E production switchers can use UltraScope waveform monitoring when used on a Windows
PC with USB 3.0. This is not currently supported, however will be included with the forthcoming USB 3.0
software update for your ATEM switcher.

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 86 Blackmagic Media Express

What is Media Express?

Blackmagic Media Express is a sophisticated software application which enables ATEM Television Studio
users to capture video and audio to industry standard MP4 files. It automatically detects whether the
switcher's Program Output is HD1080i, HD720p, NTSC or PAL and also automatically detects the frame rate.
Captured files are stored in a progressive format for maximum compatibility with media player software on
Mac OS X, Windows and portable video players.
Blackmagic Media Express 3 is a great tool when you don’t need the complexity of NLE software but simply
want to capture the live video of your switcher's Program Output into the same file format used on the web,
iPad™, iPod™, iPhone™, Apple TV™, YouTube™ and more.

The User Interface

Media Express can easily be scaled for different sizes of monitors or even small notebook screens. When
you open Media Express, you'll notice the log and capture, playback and edit to tape views are color-coded
so you will know at a glance which mode is being used. The edit to tape view is not used by ATEM Television
Studio but may be used with other Blackmagic Design capture and playback products.

Media List
The left "media list" always displays the scratch, any bins you have created and also any media you have
imported or captured. Media can be displayed in Timecode List view or Thumbnail view and you can even
filter media by favorites. The Search field makes it easy to find media by name or by attributes captured
in the media metadata. The project name and format are shown in the bottom-left corner of the Media
Express window.
The top-right pane always displays the video preview. Timecode is displayed at the top of the video preview
pane.

Log and Capture

Click on the red Log and Capture tab. The video preview pane shows the source video from your ATEM
Television Studio. Here you can enter metadata for the clips you will capture including name, description,
favorite and more. Double-clicking a captured clip in the media list will automatically switch Media Express
to Playback view.

Playback
In the green Playback view, the video preview pane shows the video of the clip being played. Click the
favorites button to add to your favorites in the media list.

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 87 Blackmagic Media Express

Capturing Video and Audio Files

Selecting ATEM Television Studio
If you have more than one Blackmagic Design capture product installed or connected to your computer,
go to the Device menu in Media Express and select ATEM Television Studio. In the example pictured on
this page, a DeckLink card and a ATEM Television Studio are both installed in the same computer. Selecting
ATEM Television Studio will allow you to choose suitable H.264 settings for your project.

Setting Up a Project
Select ATEM Television Studio from the Device menu.
Before capturing any clips in Media Express, you will need to select the settings for your project. Go to
Media Express>Preferences on Mac OS X or Edit>Preferences on Windows. Any settings which are grayed
out are only used with other Blackmagic Design capture products and are not required by ATEM Television
Studio.
The Project Video Format defines the frame size of the current H.264 project. Choose “Native (Progressive)”
for full resolution encoding of your video or select from a number of popular device presets including iPad
and YouTube. ATEM Television Studio automatically detects the frame rate of your video.
The Capture File Format always sets the video codec to H.264, and the file format to MP4, when using
ATEM Television Studio. Other choices appear in this menu when using other Blackmagic Design capture
products.
The Quality button provides access to the H.264 encoding settings and is only available when ATEM
Television Studio has detected a valid video input signal. We recommend leaving the maximum bit rate
unchanged from the default setting.
Set the storage location for your captured video and audio and choose whether to stop capture or playback
if dropped frames are detected.
Standard definition projects are set to the 4:3 aspect ratio unless you enable the Anamorphic SD 16:9
checkbox.
Usually video applications stop playing video if you send them to the background. If you want Media Express
to keep playing video, even if you open another application in the foreground, enable the checkbox to
"Continue playback when in the background".
The final options are not used by ATEM Television Studio as they relate to tape decks with RS-422 deck
control.

Video formats are provided for popular devices as well as full

resolution, Native (Progressive) video.

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 88 Blackmagic Media Express

Media List Timecode List, Thumbnail and Favorites view Search Field VTR / deck timecode Video Preview

Project name, video format Clip Bins Mark In / Grab Still Logging Capture Transport Audio channel Audio Meters Remote
and frame rate Mark Out Frame Information options Controls enable/disable indicator

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 89 Blackmagic Media Express

Capture
Capturing video is easy and all you need to do is connect a video source, set the Media Express preferences
and press the Capture button. Video will be encoded in the H.264 format and saved to an MP4 file.
Connect ATEM Television Studio to your computer via a USB 2.0 cable.
Open Media Express and set its preferences to the desired project video format.
Click the red Log and Capture tab and enter a description for your video into the Description field of the
logging information area.
Click the "+" button next to the Description to add it to the automatic Name field. Click the "+" button next
to any of the other fields that you wish to add to the Name field.
Enter a description for your video
You can increment the value in each of these fields by clicking on the corresponding clapper board
icon. Alternatively you can type directly in to any field to customize its name and number.
The text in the automatic Name field will be applied to the clip(s) which are about to be captured.
Click the "star" icon next to the Name field if you want to log the clip as a favorite.
Click the "!" icon next to the Name field if you wish a clip name confirmation prompt to appear
Set the desired audio channels to be captured
before every capture. This will provide you with the chance to change the clip name.
Set whether audio channels 1 and 2 audio channels are to be captured and then click the “Capture” button
to start recording. The Clip, Batch and Log buttons are not used to capture from ATEM Television Studio.
They relate to capturing from tape decks with RS-422 deck control.
To end capture, click the “Capture” button again to automatically keep the clip. Alternatively press the
“Esc” key if you want to be prompted to delete or save the clip.
The captured clips will be added to the Media List.

Click the "Capture" button to commence recording

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 90 Blackmagic Media Express

Media List Timecode List, Thumbnail and Favorites view Search Field VTR / deck timecode Video Preview

Project name, video format Clip Bins Mark In / Clip Grab Still Favorites Transport Audio channel Audio Meters Remote
and frame rate Mark Out Information Frame Selection Controls enable/disable indicator

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 91 Blackmagic Media Express

Playing Back Video and Audio Files

Importing Clips
You can play back your video and audio files after capturing video or importing media in to Media Express
in any of the following ways:
• Double-click an empty area of the Media List.
• Right-click an empty area of the Media List and select Import Clip from the contextual menu.
• Go to the File menu, select Import and then Media Files.
Then select the MP4 clip(s) you wish to import from the Open Video Clip dialog box. The clips will appear
in the Scratch area of the Media List. If you have created your own bins in the Media List, you can drag the
clips in to the desired bin.
If you want to import media directly to a bin, right-click within the desired bin and select Import Clip from
the contextual menu.
If the files being imported do not match the frame rate and size of existing clips in the Media List, you will
be prompted to create a new project and to save the current project.
The Final Cut Pro XML import option is not used by ATEM Television Studio. This option relates to capturing
from tape decks with RS-422 deck control.
The CMX EDL import option is not used by ATEM Television Studio. This option relates to capturing from
There are three ways to import clips in to Media Express
tape decks with RS-422 deck control.

Playing Back Single and Multiple Clips

You can play back H.264 files in the video preview pane of Media Express, and monitor audio via the default
sound output of your computer. Alternatively QuickTime Player, iTunes, Windows Media Player and VLC can
all be used to play back your H.264 files in full screen.
You can use the transport controls to play, stop, jump to the next
or previous clip and loop playback of your clips. To play back a single clip, double-click the clip in the Media List. Alternatively select the clip in the Media List
and press the space bar on your keyboard or the play button in the transport controls.
To play back multiple clips, select the clips in the Media List and then press the space bar on your keyboard
or the play button in the transport controls.
Your video will play back in the video preview pane of Media Express. During playback, the audio channels
being monitored can be switched on or off via the track enable/disable buttons.

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 92 Blackmagic Media Express

Browsing Media
In the Media List, you can view your clips in Thumbnail view or Timecode List view by clicking on the desired
view button at the top-right of the Media List.
In the Media List, choose to view your clips in Timecode List view
or Thumbnail view. Thumbnail View
Thumbnails are the most intuitive way to display your clips. To get information for a clip, hover your mouse
over the clip's thumbnail and then click on the popup info icon which will appear at the bottom-right of the
thumbnail. Interlaced video is stored in a progressive format so the info bubble will often report progressive
video even though the Program Output of your switcher is interlaced video. Click the info bubble to hide it.

List View
You can view your clips in Timecode List view by clicking on the Timecode List button at the top-right
of the Media List. Use the horizontal scroll bar at the bottom of the Media List to view all the columns of
information for your clips including: in and out points, video format, audio channels, field dominance and
logging information.

Creating and Using Bins

To create a bin for your clips, right click an empty spot in the Media List and select "Create Bin". Type in a
name for the new bin.
You can move clips from the Scratch, or from one bin to another, by dragging the clip icons to the desired
bin. If you want a clip to appear in more than one bin, import the same clip again by right-clicking on the
bin and choosing "Import Clip".
By default, logged clips appear in the Scratch. If you want to log clips and have them appear in a new bin,
right-click the new bin and choose "Select As Log Bin".

Click the popup info icon on a thumbnail to view its info bubble. Creating and Using Favorites
In the Log and Capture tab, click the "star" icon next to the Name field if you want to capture a clip as a
favorite.
In the Playback tab, clicking the "star" icon will make the clip a favorite if it is selected in the Media List. Click the
"star" icon again to deselect it as a favorite.

Clips marked as favorites are easily identified by the yellow star in

their icon.

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 93 Blackmagic Media Express

Clips marked as favorites will show a yellow star in their icon in Timecode List view and Thumbnail view.

Once you have marked clips as favorites, click on the gray, Favorites, star button at the top of the Media
list and it will turn yellow. All clips in your Media List will be hidden except for those marked as favorites.
This is similar to creating a playlist and makes it easy to only play back your favorite clips.

Deleting Clips and Bins

To delete clips, select the unwanted clips and press the forward delete button on your keyboard. This will
only delete the clips from the Media List and they will safely remain on your disk storage.
To delete bins, right-click within a bin and choose “Delete Bin”. This action will delete the bin and any clips it
contained. This will only delete the clips from the Media List and they will safely remain on your disk storage.
In the Log and Capture tab, click the "star" icon next to the
Name field if you want to log the clip as a favorite. Searching the Media List
Clips can easily be found in a project by typing the name of your clips in the Search field at the top of the
Media List. When used in conjunction with the favorites feature, the search will be confined to your favorite
clips so you will see a shorter list of found clips.

In the Playback tab, clicking the "star" icon will mark a clip as a
favorite if it is selected in the Media List.

Click the Favorites button at the top of the Media List to only
show your favorite clips. Type in the Search field to find clips.

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 94 Help

Getting Help
The fastest way to obtain help is to go to the Blackmagic Design online support pages and check the latest
support material available for your ATEM switcher.

Blackmagic Design online support pages

The latest manual, software and support notes can be found at the Blackmagic Support Center at
www.blackmagic-design.com/support.

Contacting Blackmagic Design support

If you can't find the help you need in our support material, please use the "Send request" button, on the
support page for your ATEM switcher model, to email a support request. Alternatively call your nearest
Blackmagic Design support office at www.blackmagic-design.com/company.

Checking the version currently installed

To check which version of ATEM software is installed on your computer, open the About ATEM Software
Control window.
• On Mac OS X, open ATEM Software Control from the Applications folder. Select About ATEM Software
Control from the application menu to reveal the version number.
• On Windows 7, open ATEM Software Control from your Start menu. Click on the Help menu and select
About ATEM Software Control to reveal the version number.

How to get the latest updates

After checking the version of ATEM software installed on your computer, please visit the Blackmagic Support
Center at www.blackmagic-design.com/support to check for the latest updates. While it is usually a good
idea to run the latest updates, it is a wise practice to avoid updating any software if you are in the middle of
an important project.

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 95 Warranty

12 Month Limited Warranty

Blackmagic Design warrants that this product will be free from defects in materials and workmanship for
a period of 12 months from the date of purchase. If a product proves to be defective during this warranty
period, Blackmagic Design, at its option, either will repair the defective product without charge for parts and
labor, or will provide a replacement in exchange for the defective product.
In order to obtain service under this warranty, you the Customer, must notify Blackmagic Design of the
defect before the expiration of the warranty period and make suitable arrangements for the performance
of service. The Customer shall be responsible for packaging and shipping the defective product to a
designated service center nominated by Blackmagic Design, with shipping charges pre paid. Customer
shall be responsible for paying all shipping charges, insurance, duties, taxes, and any other charges for
products returned to us for any reason.
This warranty shall not apply to any defect, failure or damage caused by improper use or improper or
inadequate maintenance and care. Blackmagic Design shall not be obligated to furnish service under
this warranty: a) to repair damage resulting from attempts by personal other than Blackmagic Design
representatives to install, repair or service the product, b) to repair damage resulting from improper use
or connection to incompatible equipment, c) to repair any damage or malfunction caused by the use of
non Blackmagic Design parts or supplies, or d) to service a product that has been modified or integrated
with other products when the effect of such a modification or integration increases the time or difficulty
of servicing the product. THIS WARRANTY IS GIVEN BY BLACKMAGIC DESIGN IN LIEU OF ANY
OTHER WARRANTIES, EXPRESS OR IMPLIED. BLACKMAGIC DESIGN AND ITS VENDORS DISCLAIM
ANY IMPLIED WARRANTIES OF MERCHANTABILITY OR FITNESS FOR A PARTICULAR PURPOSE.
BLACKMAGIC DESIGN’S RESPONSIBILITY TO REPAIR OR REPLACE DEFECTIVE PRODUCTS IS THE
WHOLE AND EXCLUSIVE REMEDY PROVIDED TO THE CUSTOMER FOR ANY INDIRECT, SPECIAL,
INCIDENTAL OR CONSEQUENTIAL DAMAGES IRRESPECTIVE OF WHETHER BLACKMAGIC DESIGN
OR THE VENDOR HAS ADVANCE NOTICE OF THE POSSIBILITY OF SUCH DAMAGES. BLACKMAGIC
DESIGN IS NOT LIABLE FOR ANY ILLEGAL USE OF EQUIPMENT BY CUSTOMER. BLACKMAGIC IS
NOT LIABLE FOR ANY DAMAGES RESULTING FROM USE OF THIS PRODUCT. USER OPERATES THIS
PRODUCT AT OWN RISK.
© Copyright 2011 Blackmagic Design. All rights reserved. ‘Blackmagic Design’, ‘DeckLink’, ‘HDLink’, ‘Workgroup Videohub’, ‘Multibridge Pro’,
‘Multibridge Extreme’, ‘Intensity’ and ‘Leading the creative video revolution’ are registered trademarks in the US and other countries. All other
company and product names may be trade marks of their respective companies with which they are associated.

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