Blackmagic Design Unveils New VR Cameras and Professional Broadcast Hardware

The Blackmagic Design ATEM 4 M/E Constellation IP: A Professional Broadcast Switcher Blackmagic Design has introduced the ATEM 4 M/E Constellation IP, a live production switcher engineered for high-end broadcast environments. This device represents a significant advancement in the company’s Constellation line, offering native SMPTE-2110 support and robust redundancy features essential for professional live production workflows. At its core, the ATEM 4 M/E Constellation IP is a 2 RU rackmount switcher that utilizes high-speed 100G Ethernet connections for video transport. Each of its four 100G ports operates as a redundant pair, ensuring signal integrity and compliance with SMPTE-2022-7 standards for seamless failover. The switcher provides 32 native SMPTE-2110 IP video inputs and 28 outputs, including multiview capabilities, all transmitted over these 100G fiber Ethernet links. Designed with the demands of live broadcast in mind, the unit features a front-to-back cooling system with four exceptionally quiet fans. This thermal management approach allows for reliable operation in enclosed rack environments. The front panel includes practical tools for operators, such as a headphone jack, built-in speaker for local program monitoring, and a USB-C port for software updates or connecting the ATEM Software Control application. Internally, the switcher delivers comprehensive production capabilities. It includes 16 ATEM Advanced Keyers, 4 multi-views, and 2 SuperSource processors, which together provide a total of 12 digital video effects (DVEs). Each M/E row features 4 ATEM Advanced Chroma Keyers. The unit supports both cut-bus and professional mix effects switching styles, and every input benefits from full standards conversion and re-synchronization to handle non-standard video sources and resolve PTP clock issues. Audio workflows are supported through Fairlight Live audio mixing capabilities and professional talkback functionality, which uses audio channels 15 and 16 for two-way communication with compatible Blackmagic Design cameras. The switcher also includes internal media storage for stills and motion graphics, and supports a range of transitions including mix, wipe, DVE, and stinger effects. Connectivity extends beyond the main video processing, with compatibility for ATEM hardware and software control panels, the ATEM Monitoring Panel, and the ATEM Camera Control panel. Notably, Blackmagic Design includes all these features without additional customer usage charges, providing access to the full software control suite for Mac and Windows at no extra cost. The ATEM 4 M/E Constellation IP is positioned as a solution for broadcasters requiring a flexible, reliable, and future-proof platform capable of handling mixed 12G-SDI and SMPTE-2110 IP video infrastructures while maintaining the highest standards of signal redundancy and quality.