NAB 2024: PTZOptics Talks Hive Studio and Remote Camera Control
By Jennifer P
In an extensive interview with Shawn Lam from Streaming Media at NAB 2024, Matthew Davis, the Director of Technology for PTZOptics, unveiled Hive Studio, an innovative cloud-based remote camera control solution. This new product, set to launch in June, has been in development for several years and aims to revolutionize remote camera operations by offering broad compatibility and user-friendly features.
Key Features and Tiers: Hive Studio supports over 400 camera models, not limited to PTZOptics’ own cameras. The product will be available in three subscription-based tiers: a free basic model, a mid-tier option for controlling up to three cameras, and a top-tier option for unlimited camera control. These tiers provide flexibility to cater to different user needs and budgets, available on a monthly or yearly subscription basis.
Operational Flexibility: The platform is designed for versatile operation, capable of functioning both locally and in the cloud. Locally, users can run a small agent on their Windows or Mac PC to connect cameras on the same network, providing a unified control interface without relying on cloud resources. For cloud operations, PTZOptics cameras can connect directly to the internet and appear in the Hive Studio interface without needing an intermediary PC. This makes it possible to control cameras remotely from anywhere in the world.
Enhanced Control and Integration: Hive Studio offers extensive control features, including NDI (Network Device Interface) output, which integrates smoothly with existing workflows such as vMix, OBS, and TriCasters. This allows users to leverage their current equipment while benefiting from Hive’s advanced control capabilities. The platform also supports auto-tracking, even for cameras that do not natively include this feature, providing smooth and professional camera movements that mimic human operators, referred to as “cinema movement.”
User Experience and Versatility: Davis emphasized the platform’s intuitive interface, which consolidates all control options in one place, eliminating the need to switch between different camera interfaces. Users can easily adjust image settings, motion controls, and color balance across multiple camera brands, which is particularly useful for productions that use a mix of equipment from different manufacturers. This level of control ensures that even beginners can achieve professional-quality results.
Recording and Post-Production: Hive Studio also includes robust recording capabilities, allowing for ISO recording of each individual camera input. Users can manage recordings in the cloud or with existing on-premise equipment, offering flexibility for various production setups. This feature is particularly beneficial for post-production, where high-quality, isolated recordings are essential.
Latency and Performance: Davis highlighted the low latency of Hive Studio, which ensures real-time control and responsiveness. In practical terms, the latency is under 300 milliseconds, even when controlling cameras across vast distances (e.g., over 3,000 miles). This low latency makes Hive Studio suitable for live productions where timing and precision are critical.
Target Markets and Use Cases: Hive Studio is designed to meet the needs of various markets, including education, religious institutions, and remote production scenarios. Davis noted significant interest from the educational sector, which sees the potential for enhancing remote learning experiences. The platform also appeals to remote producers and sales environments, where high-quality, user-friendly production tools can significantly impact the final output.
In conclusion, Hive Studio by PTZOptics is poised to be a game-changer in the field of remote camera control, offering a comprehensive, flexible, and user-friendly solution for a wide range of production needs. With its broad compatibility, advanced features, and low latency, Hive Studio is set to meet the demands of both novice users and experienced professionals in the video production industry.
Read the full interview from Streaming Media HERE
Learn more about PTZOptics Hive Studio HERE
Learn more about PTZOptics HERE