Version 6 Software for Slate Switcher Line Raises the Performance Bar for Live Production

• Audio-Follow-Video Mixer Control
  New Audio-Follow-Video software enables an audio mixer to automatically follow all action on the Slate video switcher. Unlike conventional switchers that utilize antiquated ESAM2 protocols for audio follow, Slate uses MIDI (Musical Instrument Digital Interface), so it works with most audio mixers and is both more powerful and more affordable. As each video source goes to air, it triggers commands on the mixer to turn on various audio inputs. It can even trigger an entire mixer scene memory, including volume, fade, pan and effects like echo and reverb. Audio levels meters from some mixers, such as Yamaha, can also be viewed on the Slate switcher’s Multi-View monitor.
  
• Key 4,5 & 6
  The number of keyers indicates how many elements a switcher can overlay on a background. Previously, all Broadcast Pix switchers provided at least three keyers, and that has now been expanded to six keyers. Each is a full function keyer that can have a DVE box applied for Picture-in-Picture, for up to six at once.
  
• PowerAux
  This creates the most powerful Aux output on any switcher, essentially providing users with two different program outputs. On conventional switchers, the auxiliary outputs show only a simple background image. PowerAux enables Slate switchers to produce an advanced auxiliary output with up to six keyers applied. This is ideal for producing two simultaneous shows from the same system, for two different audiences, without the high cost and complexity of a two M/E switcher. This can be the case when producing for TV, projector and Internet, or widescreen and standard aspect ratios, or simply different branding.
  
• CG Connect
  All Slate switchers include an Inscriber TitleMotion Pro character generator (CG). CG Connect couples the individual text and graphic elements in the CG to an external database. For example, in a sports application, a CG page with a player’s name, photograph and statistics can be connected to a standard XML database that contains a team’s information. By selecting a different player in the database, all elements update simultaneously, even when the graphic is on-air. For sports broadcasts, CG Connect streamlines score updates and can put a clock into the CG.
  
• Multiple Chromakeys and a Virtual Set
  One chromakey is standard for green and blue wall sets. Eight chromakeys are now optional for combining with built-in still and clip stores for virtual set production. Just snap photos from each camera angle, put them into the built-in stills stores, and tie them to each camera for a convincing virtual set.