PTZ cameras

BirdDog camera control for visual radio

Use BirdDog cameras in an automated radio studio. VRA recalls saved angles and adjusts supported PTZ cameras while they are off air, ready for the next shot. Your video switcher makes the cut.

Book a demo

How BirdDog and VRA work together.

Start with your camera model

Choose the BirdDog model you use to load its connection settings. The profile determines the available controls; you supply the camera address and any required credentials.

Control follows the model

Camera Assist uses the NDI control path defined by the BirdDog model profile. Select the camera's NDI source for preview, enter any required network details and test movement before building angles.

Recall the same shot from a mic or button

Each angle combines a saved camera position with the command that puts it on air. A microphone, macro or dashboard button can execute the same angle.

Prepare the next shot off air

After calibration, Camera Assist can correct an off-air camera to a named shot size and target face count before that camera is taken.

How to set it up.

Requirements

Camera Assist running on the same network as the camera.
A supported BirdDog model, or a compatible generic control profile.
The camera's IP address and credentials, plus a preview source when you want live pictures in VRA Cloud.
A switcher command that puts the camera on programme. Camera Assist controls the camera; the video mixer still makes the cut.

Install and run Camera Assist on a machine in the studio network.
In VRA Cloud, open Cameras, choose Add new camera and select the exact BirdDog model.
Enter the camera host, port and credentials. Add an NDI source, stream URL or supported native preview source.
Set the command that takes the camera to programme, save the connection and confirm that Camera Assist reports it as connected.
Create camera angles from the camera's preset slots or captured positions. Calibrate the camera before enabling automatic framing.

BirdDog questions

Will my BirdDog camera work with VRA? +

Check the model list in Camera Assist for your exact BirdDog camera. Its profile determines the control method and available functions. If it is not listed, ask us to check the model and firmware before choosing a generic profile.

How does VRA control BirdDog cameras? +

Camera Assist uses the NDI control path defined by the BirdDog model profile. Select the camera's NDI source for preview, enter any required network details and test movement before building angles.

Does Camera Assist switch the video itself? +

No. Camera Assist moves and frames the camera. The camera angle also carries a command for the existing video mixer, which is what puts that source on programme.

Can I use a fixed camera? +

Yes. A fixed camera can still have a preview and a switcher command. It simply has no PTZ movement or automatic framing.

BirdDog

About BirdDog.

BirdDog PTZ cameras combine network video and camera control in NDI production environments. VRA profiles cover both NDI and NDI HX3 model families.

Choose a supported BirdDog model in VRA to load its control profile and available lens data. Check the controls for your exact model: a fixed camera can be selected on the switcher, while automatic framing needs a supported, calibrated PTZ camera.

Visit birddog.tv