PTZ cameras

Sony camera control for visual radio

Use Sony 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.

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How Sony and VRA work together.

Start with your camera model

Choose the Sony 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 VISCA or VISCA over IP, depending on the camera profile. For an IP camera, add its network address and authentication, then test movement before creating preset-based 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 Sony 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 Sony 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.

Sony questions

Will my Sony camera work with VRA? +

Check the model list in Camera Assist for your exact Sony 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 Sony cameras? +

Camera Assist uses VISCA or VISCA over IP, depending on the camera profile. For an IP camera, add its network address and authentication, then test movement before creating preset-based 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.

Sony

About Sony.

Sony's remote cameras cover meeting, studio and broadcast production. VRA stores the appropriate VISCA profile and optical data for each listed model.

Choose a supported Sony 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 pro.sony