Blackmagic Forum

It is my understanding that in order to see the image from your camera's, the camera's must all be set to match the ATEM 1 M/E Switcher "Video Standard." Ours is currently set at 720 59.94p.

We currently use:
(2) Panasonic AG-HPX250 cameras.
Blackmagic ATEM Video Switcher Panel
Mac Pro Version 10.7.5
DeckLink HD Extreme 3D+

I would love to purchase two more AG-HPX250 camera's, but they don't fit our budget and I don't know of any lower end camera that can be set to 720 59.94p.
So, I am wondering if I purchase (3) lower end cameras with HDMI outputs, will I be able to use one of Blackmagic's Mini Converters (HDMI to SDI), or can someone recommend any other converter with the capability to set it's output to 720 59.94p?
I'm open to any suggestions. Please help. (631) 377-9344 Morris

Anything that truly outputs 1280x720 @ 59.94 should work. You might even find one that outputs YUV component. You'd need the analog to SDI converter for that. Most would have HDMI. Check the specs that it actually outputs 1280x720, square pixels, as there are some cameras out there that use anamorphic pixels at 960 x 720. They aren't too common, but they do exist.

I don't know what your budget is, but have a quick look at the AG-AC160A. It is an upgrade from the older 250's as far as the chips and lens are concerned, but less expensive than (but uses the same lens and chips as) the 250's replacement, the HPX255. The main difference between the 255 and the 160A are 255 uses P2 cards & the 160 uses SDHC cards, and the 255 has a CCU camera control port. Other than that, they are practically the same camera, in most ways that matter. They are around 4k USD. They do output HD-SDI, so you can effectively discount the cost of converters from that price.