VRC System

User Guide
Part No. V4063-0010
V4063-0013
V4063-0014
V4063-0015
www.vinten.com EN
Copyright © 2018
All rights reserved.

Original Instructions: English

All rights reserved throughout the world. No part of this publication may be stored in a retrieval
system, transmitted, copied or reproduced in any way, including, but not limited to, photocopy,
photograph, magnetic or other record without the prior agreement and permission in writing of the
Vitec Group Plc.

Disclaimer
The information contained in this publication is believed to be correct at the time of printing. Vitec
Production Solutions Ltd reserves the right to make changes to the information or specifications
without obligation to notify any person of such revision or changes. Changes will be incorporated
in new versions of the publication.

We are making every effort to ensure that our publications are updated on a regular basis
to reflect changes to product specifications and features. Should this publication not contain
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Vitec Production Solutions Ltd reserves the right to make changes to product design and
functionality without notification.

Trademarks
All product trademarks and registered trademarks are the property of The Vitec Group Plc.

All other trademarks and registered trademarks are the property of their respective companies.

Published by:
Vitec Production Solutions Ltd

Email: technical.publications@vitecgroup.com
 Contents

1 Read Me First
Important Safety Information 2
About this User Guide 3

2 Getting Started
License Options 4

3 Setting up a Basic μVRC System

Adding Robotic Camera Units to the System 7
VRC Controller and Vantage Configuration 13

4 Using the μVRC

Using the Touch-Screen Display Interface 18
Working with Shots and Shows 30

5 Running a Show With the μVRC

Cueing, Trimming and Tracking Shots 34

6 μVRC Configuration
User Preferences 36
Configuration Management 40
Camera Inputs Configuration 45
About Screen and License Management 46
Device Configuration 47
EPI Configuration 50
CCU Interfaces 66
CCU Database 69

1
 1 Read Me First
Important Safety Information
Important information on the safe installation and operation of this product. Read this
information before operating the product. For your personal safety, read these instructions.
Do not operate the product if you do not understand how to use it safely. Save these
instructions for future reference.

Warning Symbols Used in these Instructions

Safety cautions are included in these instructions. These safety instructions must be followed to
avoid possible personal injury and avoid possible damage to the product.

WARNING!
Where there is a risk of personal injury or injury to others, comments appear
supported by the warning triangle symbol.
!
Where there is a risk of damage to the product, associated equipment, process or
surroundings, comments appear supported by the word ‘CAUTION’.

Intended Use
The VRC system is a software application designed to be installed and configured on HD-VRC
and µVRC computer controllers. It is designed to control compatible robotic camera equipment
and accessories. Camera operators can remotely control movements of axes and other functions.

The VRC system is designed for use in TV studios and other applications including houses of
worship, conference facilities and auditoriums, in one or across several locations.

Safety when Working with Robotic Equipment

In normal operation remote-controlled equipment can move suddenly and without warning. Since
audible warnings are not suitable for use within the studio environment, it is recommended that
only trained personnel be allowed to work in the active areas where remote controlled robotic
equipment is located.

The safe operating zone is a minimum of 1 m (3 ft).

Safety Notes for Operators

Operators must familiarise themselves with the working footprint of the robotic equipment,
including all installed payload items (lens, zoom and focus controls, viewfinder, prompter, etc.) to
prevent inadvertent collisions or injury to personnel.

If personnel are too close to robotic equipment that is about to move, the operator should prevent
the motion from starting or stop the motion if it has started.

We strongly recommend that the operator verifies visually that the active area is clear of hazards
and personnel, both before and during remote operation.

2
About this User Guide
This user guide covers the configuration and operation of the VRC system application.

In this user guide, the following symbols are used to indicate useful or important information:

NOTE: Gives additional important information about the product.

TIP: Gives extra advice and ways to perform a particular step or procedure.

Product Variants
The VRC system application can be installed and used on either the μVRC or HD-VRC controller
computers. This guide covers all aspects and functions of the VRC system application, from basic
μVRC to complex HD-VRC configurations.

In this user guide, the following symbols are used to indicate information of particular or specific
interest to a product variant:

μVRC

HD-VRC

Additional Information

For more information about connecting up a VRC

system and using the joystick panels, refer to:

• μVRC Robotic Control System User Guide,

part no. V4063-4981

• HD-VRC Robotic Control System User Guide,

part no. V4063-4982

3
 2 Getting Started
License Options
To set up and run a robotic camera system using the VRC application, at least one license must
be applied. Any licences must be registered by visiting:

http://www.vinten.com/en/software-registration
Follow the instructions on the web page to complete your registration. When a license is
registered, a license key is issued. The license key must be applied in the License Management
window to activate the new features. For more information, see About Screen and License
Management on page 46.

Upgrade licenses are available for purchase to expand the system or functions:

μVRC Plus Four V4063-8001

Up to eight Vantage heads can be controlled.

μVRC Total Control V4063-8002

Any number of Vantage heads can be controlled.

PTZ Control V4063-8003

Control a single PTZ camera (Sony or Panasonic).

ICE/Fusion V4063-8004

Adds control of Vinten ICE and Fusion robotics.

Hexagon V4063-8005

Adds control of Vinten Hexagon robotics.

CCU Control
V4063-8006
(broadcast cameras)

Add paint/shading control for a single broadcast camera (Sony).

Automation Interface V4063-8007

Allows a third party control system to integrate with the µVRC.

Distributed network
control, database
V4063-8008
replication and
backup
Allows multiple µVRC to share control. Also allows interaction
with HD-VRCs.

4
 Shot Thumbnails V4063-8009

Adds support for an external video capture interface to allow

shots to display thumbnails from live video.

New upgrade licenses with additional features and functions may be added at
any time in the future.

Starting the VRC Application

1. When the VRC computer controller has booted up,
double tap on the Fusion Client icon.

2. The VRC application starts up.

3. If only one user-name is set up on the system with no

password set, the VRC automatically logs in.

4. If multiple user-names have already been set up,

select the appropriate name in the User Selection
window.

5. Enter the password, if one has been

set. The on-screen keyboard can be
used to enter information throughout
the VRC application.

5
 3 Setting up a Basic VRC System
When the VRC system has been powered up and the application has started, you can begin to
configure and control the connected robotic cameras. Basic configuration is described in this
chapter to get you up and running quickly.

If any addition licenses have been purchased, they should be applied to the VRC system during
set up. For more information see About Screen and License Management on page 46.

If you are unfamiliar with the VRC hardware

interface, for more information refer to:

• μVRC Robotic Control System User Guide,

part no. V4063-4981

• HD-VRC Robotic Control System User Guide,

part no. V4063-4982

To further set up and refine the VRC system, see Configuration Management on
page 40.

6
Adding Robotic Camera Units to the System
Configuration Management Tool
The Configuration Management Tool allows you to add any connected hardware to the VRC
system. You can build each individual robotic camera unit by adding the hardware components
(robotic pedestal, height drive, head, camera, lens, etc) fitted.

The Configuration Management Tool has built-in intelligence to identify compatible and
incompatible hardware components being added to a robotic camera unit. Third party
camera lens control (zoom/focus/iris) may have limited functionality on some models.

From the main VRC workspace tap the Menu > Configuration Management buttons to open the
Configuration Management Tool window.

5 2 3

1 Device Storage Grid - Added robotic heads, cameras and other components

2 Device Profiles Tab* - Cells for storing robotic camera units

3 Discovered Devices Tab - Connected devices automatically detected

4 Device Properties Panel - Configuration section for robotic cameras and hardware

5 Errors Tab - Lists any issues detected with the current configuration

*Products available for selection appear in white text. Products in black text require
an additional license to be purchased and applied. For more information see
License Options on page 4.

7
 Adding a Vantage Head
Vantage heads can be easily added to the VRC system. Any connected and powered vantage
heads are detected automatically.

1. Click on the Discovered Devices tab.

Available Vantage heads are listed for
selection.

2. Drag the selected device

into an empty cell on the
Device Storage Grid.

3. In the Device Properties panel, enter an appropriate

name for the head. This name will be used
throughout the VRC interface for configuring and
operating the head.

The Vantage head or any device can

be renamed at any time by returning to
the Configuration Management Tool and
changing it in the Device Properties panel.

8
Adding an Ice Head or PTZ Camera

1. Select the appropriate Ice head or PTZ camera from the Device Profiles Tab list.
2. Drag the selected device into an empty cell on the Device Storage Grid.

3. In the Device Properties panel, enter an

appropriate name for the head or PTZ camera.

4. Enter the additional required configuration

information:

(a) Enter the network IP address for the Ice

head.

(b) Enter the IP address and port number for

the PTZ head.

Depending on the connected device, additional configuration fields may need

to be completed. Refer to the documentation supplied with the product for more
information.

9
 Adding Other Devices
Other compatible connected devices can be added and configured in the VRC system.

Adding a Tally Device

1. Select the appropriate tally device from the Device Profiles Tab list.
2. Drag the selected device into an empty cell on the Device Storage Grid.
3. In the Device Properties panel, enter an
appropriate name for the tally device.

4. Select the VRC controller the tally device is

connected to from the Host drop-down menu.

5. Select the serial port (COM1, 2, etc) the tally

device is connected to from the Port drop-down
menu.

Adding a Serial to IP Converter Device

Any serial camera devices must be connected using a serial to IP converter and then added and
configured into the system.

1. Select the serial to IP converter device from the Device Profiles Tab list.

2. Drag the selected device into an empty cell on

the Device Storage Grid.

3. In the Device Properties panel, enter an

appropriate name for the converter.

4. Enter the IP address and port number for the

converter.

Depending on the connected device, additional configuration fields may need to be

completed. Refer to the documentation supplied with the product for more information.

Removing Devices
Devices (or component devices such as cameras and lenses) can be removed from the VRC
system at any time.

1. Tap the red X on the camera device to remove 1

the whole camera and components from the
VRC system.

2. Tap the red X on a component device to delete

the component device from the main camera
device.
2
If a camera device is removed, all
stored shots will be permanently
disassociated with the camera.

10
Adding Cameras
Compatible cameras and lenses connected and fitted to robotic heads such as the Vantage or Ice
heads can be added into the VRC system. This allows automated camera functions (zoom, focus,
CCU) to be controlled by the VRC application.

1. Select the appropriate device (camera, lens) connected and fitted to the camera from the
Device Profiles Tab list.

2. Drag the device into the grid cell of the robotic head (example shows a Canon camera added to
a Vantage head.

Applying Configuration Settings

When devices have been added and configured on to the VRC system, or changes have been
made to the current system setup, the settings must be applied

1. Click the Apply

button.

2. Click the Return 3

Button.

1 2

3. Click the Ok button when prompted. The VRC application will restart to apply any changes
made to the setup.

When the VRC application restarts, added cameras are available for selection from the Camera
selection and Status Bar.

11
 Configuration Errors
When devices have not been configured correctly, or configuration has not been fully completed
(all required device details not entered), the VRC application will not allow the changes to be
applied.

An Invalid Configuration window opens,

prompting you to find any issues and update
the configuration correctly.

1. Check the Errors tab to see details of

invalid or incomplete configuration.

2. Camera devices in the grid indicate errors: a

(a) A warning symbol is displayed on the
main camera device indicating an
issue with either the main device or a b
connected component.

(b) A warning symbol is displayed on the

component device with the issue.

3. When configuration has been completed,

a pencil symbol is displayed indicating that
changes have been made but must be
applied to take effect.

Resolve any errors (such as a missing protocol, missing IP address, etc.) before
attempting to apply changes again. Configuration must be completed for the camera
and components to fully function.

12
VRC Controller and Vantage Configuration
When setting up a VRC system, it may be necessary to configure the network settings for
connected controllers and Vantage heads. Further configuration such as enabling VR data and
upgrading firmware on a Vantage head can also be performed.

Configuring a VRC Controller IP Address

The network IP address of a connected μVRC controller computer can be changed to suit the
requirements of the VRC system installation, if the standard DHCP configuration is not compatible
with your network. The IP address can be manually configured in Windows 10.

The IP address of the μVRC controller should normally be on the same network as the robotic
camera devices. This means that the first three sections of the IP address should be the same, for
example:

192.168.1.XXX

XXX is a unique address for the μVRC controller and each robotic device.

Network gateways and bridging subnets are not within the scope of this user guide.
Refer to you IT department for configuration assistance.

The IP address is manually configured in Windows 10:

1. In the Control Panel window, tap the link titled View network status and tasks under the
Network and Internet heading.

2. Tap the link on the left of the window labelled Change adapter settings.
3. There may be more than one Internet connection listed in this window. If this is the case
you will need to determine which one is your connection to the Internet. When this has been
established, tap and hold (or right click) on the network adapter and select Properties to open
up the Properties window of this Internet connection.

4. Tap on Internet Protocol Version 4 (TCP/IPv4) in the list. Then choose the option under that
titled Properties.

5. Make a note of any current network settings in case these need to be restored in the future.
6. Tap to select Use the following IP address:. Enter a new IP address, and the appropriate
Subnet mask and Defaults gateway in the fields provided.

7. Enter the DNS server addresses if applicable.

8. Tap Ok to save the new settings.

13
 Using the Advanced Configuration Tool Utility
The Advanced Configuration Tool utility is used to further configure connected devices for:

• Specific network configurations

• Enabling VR

• Updating the firmware

IMPORTANT! Close the VRC application and disable the VRC EPI server before
launching the Advanced Configuration Tool.

Stopping the VRC EPI Server

The VRC EPI server must be temporarily disabled to allow the Advanced Configuration Tool to
detect Vantage heads on the network.

1. In the Windows menu, search for “services”

and select to open.

2. In the Services window, scroll down the list of applications to find “Vrc EPI Server”.

3. Tap and hold on the line, and select

Stop when the menu appears.

14
Launching the Advanced Configuration Tool
1. Double click the desktop short cut to
launch the Advanced Configuration Tool.

2. Any Vantage heads powered and

connected to the network appear on
the left side of the window under the
Devices panel.

3. Select the required head by tapping on

the IP address. The selected head is
highlighted with a green dot.

Network Configuration
The Vantage head supports two IP addressing modes - DHCP and Static addressing. The default
mode is DHCP and if the head is connected to a network with a DHCP server, an IP address will
be automatically assigned to the head.

To configure a static IP address:

1. In the Wired Network Configuration panel,

select Static from the drop-down menu.

2. Enter the required IP Address in the first

field.

3. Enter the required Sub Net Mask in the 1

next field. 2
4. If required, enter a Gateway Address. 3
4
5. Click the Apply Settings button to save the
IP settings. The Vantage head automatically 5
reboots.

15
 VR Configuration
The Advanced Configuration Tool is used to configure the Vantage Head for VR.

The vantage head must have an active genlock signal connected.

To configure VR on the head:

1. In the VR Configuration panel, move the

Tracking Status slider to On.
1
2. Select udp from the Endpoint drop-down
menu. 2
3. Enter the URL of the rendering PC in the 3
Endpoint URL field.
4
4. Click the Apply button to save the settings.

Firmware Update
The Advanced Configuration Tool is used to update the firmware on the Vantage head.

1. In the Firmware Update panel, click to select

the left button to browse to the required
update.bin file.

2. When the file is selected, click the Apply

Update button to perform the update. 1 2

The update takes approximately 4 minutes to complete.

Restarting the VRC EPI Server

When configuration has been completed with the Advanced Configuration Tool, the VRC EPI
server must be restarted before the VRC application can be used again.

1. In the Services window, tap and hold on the

“Vrc EPI Server” line.

2. Select Start when the menu appears.

16
17
 4 Using the VRC
Using the Touch-Screen Display Interface
The VRC touch-screen display is the primary interface with the system, enabling you to select
cameras and setup, store, manage and select shots for shows.

The main VRC workspace window provides instant access to functions required to operate the
remote camera control system.

2 4
3

The window comprises:

Stored Shot Grid - This grid of cells is used to display the shots that have been created
1 and stored for each camera in the current show, or the shots stored for the currently
selected camera depending on the setting of the Per Camera configuration option.
Camera selection and Status Bar - The robotic cameras can be selected from this
2
workspace bar or the control panel.

3 Toolbar containing function and menu buttons.

4 Notifications Panel - Displays information about the VRC system (such as errors).

18
Stored Shot Grid
The grid size (number of shots that are visible on a single page can be selected using the Grid
Size option on the Configuration Screen – see Grid Display Options on page 36. Depending
on the number of shots stored in the current show and the grid size selected, the shots may span
several pages.

A shot stored in the grid is displayed with the shot name (assigned when stored), the camera
relating to the shot and the current assigned time (for fade moves). If the VRC system has the
optional video capture functions available, a still image can be displayed for the shot in the
thumbnail area (HD-VRC only).

1 1 Camera name

2 Shot name

3 Shot time

4 4 Thumbnail area

19
 Shot Status Colour codes
The frames of the shots stored in the grid are colour coded to indicate the shot status.

A B C D E

Shot Colour Description

A Red Indicates that the camera is moving (via Cut or Fade) to the shot.

Indicates that the shot is cued and the camera will move to this
B Green
shot when Cut or Fade is selected.
Indicates that the camera is exactly on shot as stored in the show
C Dark Blue
file.
Indicates that the camera has been trimmed off the shot stored in
D Light Blue
the show file.

F Grey Indicates shots that are available for selection.

Camera Selection Status Bar

Available robotic cameras can be selected from this bar. The colour of the camera button indicates
the current status of the camera.

A B C D E F

Frame Colour Description

A Green Camera is currently selected and controlled by the control panel.

B White Camera is available for immediate selection and control.

C Black Camera is offline and unavailable.

Camera is currently under the control of another networked

D Blue
control panel.
Camera needs to be enabled. Tap the Opts button and select
E Grey
Enable from the Device Control field.
Camera is not selectable, because of incompatibility with the local
F Grey hash
VRC controller or license restrictions.

When selected, any camera can be controlled from the joystick control
panel, or using the virtual joystick and controls on the touch screen.

20
Function and Menu Buttons
The toolbar containing the function and menu buttons is displayed at the bottom of the workspace.
The buttons and menus enable you to create and manage shots and shows, and configure the
VRC system.

Button Function Description

Displays the toolbar menu enabling you to: manage shows,

Menu
configure the system and preferences.

Displays the edit menu enabling you to: rename a shot,

Edit delete a shot, edit the shot time, replace a stored shot with
a new one and move shots to different positions in the grid.

Stop Stops all camera movement during a cut or fade operation.

Cuts from the current shot(s) to the selected shot(s) as fast

as possible. This function can be latched to immediately cut
Cut
to a shot when it is selected. Cut is not suitable for on-air
moves.

Fades from the current shot to the selected shot in the time
Fade duration stored in the shot. This function can be latched to
immediately fade to a shot when it is selected.

Stores the shot on the currently selected camera unit into

Store the selected cell in the grid. A show must be opened to store
shots.

Zooms the lens of the current on-shot camera unit

Focus (thumbnail coloured dark blue) all the way in tight and
displays the Focus menu.

Available for Vinten Hexagon track and other robotic

Sequence devices when a license upgrade has been purchased and
applied.

Displays the Virtual Joystick window, providing a method of

Virtual
controlling cameras from the touch screen when the control
Stick
panel is not available.

Page Up/ Enables you to scroll up and down through pages of

Down multiple stored shots.

Displays the Options menu which enables you to: Enable

cameras; turn X4 mode on/off; select CCU menus for
Options compatible cameras and device configuration. Options are
for the currently selected device and not visible if no camera
is selected.

21
 Toolbar Menu
Tap Menu to display the toolbar menu.

Menu Option Description

Show Displays the Show Management functions, enabling you to create, load, list
Management and delete shows - see Show management on page 30.
Displays the Configuration Management screen, enabling you to configure the
Configuration
system, manage users and licenses - see Configuration Management on
Management
page 40.
User Displays the User Preferences screen, enabling you to configure: editing grid
Preferences display options, joystick settings, etc. See - User Preferences on page 36.
Displays the Camera Inputs screen, where tally and video switcher channels
Camera can be assigned to specific cameras. The order cameras appear on the
Inputs Camera Selection and Status bar can also be changed. See Camera Inputs
Configuration on page 45.
Displays the About screen with software and license information. Licenses
About are also updated and applied here. See About Screen and License
Management on page 46.

Exit Exits the VRC application.

Return Closes the menu.

Edit menu
Tap Edit to display the Edit menu. This has options that let you rename shots, modify the fade
time, delete shots, re-save a shot or swap shot positions on the grid. You can also assign a shot
to another camera. Tap Return to exit from the Edit menu. For more information – see Managing
Shots on page 32.

Stop Button
The stop button is used to halt the movement of a camera during a fade or cut to a stored shot.

There are two stopping options selectable in the User Preferences screen:

• The standard stop option provides a ‘gentle’ synchronised stop which halts robotic camera
movement in approximately two seconds - recommended for on-air use.

• The other stop option provides a ‘fast’ abrupt stop that is not synchronised and may produce
a small amount of instability on the camera, and therefore should not be used on air. See -
Camera Control on page 38.

After using Stop to halt a robotic transition, you can:

• Complete that move by selecting the shot again and tapping Fade or Cut.

• Make another move, by selecting the required shot and tapping Fade or Cut.

22
Cut and Fade Buttons
After a shot is selected on the touch-screen, the Cut and Fade buttons become available to move
the camera from the current shot to the selected shot.

Latching
If latched Cut or Fade is selected (tap Cut or Fade before selecting a shot), the camera will
automatically move to a new shot as soon as it is selected on the touch screen, with no need to
tap the buttons.

Store Button
Tapping the Store button will save the current position of the selected camera as a shot in the
current show for future use. You can select where the shot is stored in the stored shot grid.

A show must be created and opened to store shots. For more information
see Show management on page 30.

Focus Button
When you are on shot (stored shot coloured dark blue), tapping the Focus button will zoom the
lens all the way in tight. You can then:

1. Use pan and tilt, if necessary, to frame the person or object that you want to set focus on.
2. Adjust the focus.
3. Select one of the Focus Menu options described below.

Focus Menu
Description
Option
After the focus has been adjusted, tap Keep Camera to return the camera
to the shot’s original pan, tilt and zoom settings and keep the adjusted focus
Keep Camera
setting. The shot stored in the show database is not updated, so the next time
you recall the shot it will have the original focus, not the adjusted focus.
After the focus has been adjusted, tap Keep Shot to return the camera to the
shot’s original pan, tilt and zoom settings, keep the adjusted focus setting and
Keep Shot
store the adjusted focus in the show database. The next time you recall the
shot it will have the adjusted focus.
Tap Cancel to abandon the adjusted focus setting and return the camera to the
Cancel
shot’s original pan, tilt, zoom and focus settings.
Tap Return to return to the workspace leaving the lens zoomed in tight and
Return
with pan, tilt and focus as you left them.

23
 Sequence Button
If an optional license has been purchased and applied, Hexagon track and other robotic devices
can be set up to play a series of shots in sequence. Sequences can then be stored for future recall
during shows. In addition, a sequence of shots can be configured to loop, playing the sequence a
specific number of times.

Creating a sequence
1. Drive the robotic device to the intended starting position.
2. Select a position on the grid (1).
3. Click Store (2).

2 3

4. A new window opens. Input a name for the sequence and tap Enter.
5. In the next window enter the time (how long the movement will take) and tap Enter. The
sequence is created.

6. Tap the Sequence button (3) to open the sequence editor window.

24
7. Tap on the key frame (4) created earlier.
8. Drive the robotic device to the next required position in the sequence.
9. Tap Store (5), a window pops up, input the movement time (up to 120 seconds), tap Enter.
10. Repeat this process for up to a maximum of 18 key frames.

Sequence Thumbnail Features

1 2 3
1 Status

2 Camera name

3 Sequence

4 Loop mode

5 Sequence name and time

5 4

Sequence Status Colour Codes

The following colours are used on the sequence thumbnails to represent the current status.

Green Selected sequence

Red Playing sequence

Dark blue On shot (end of sequence)

Light blue Off shot

Purple Sequence cued

25
 Editing a Sequence
1. In the sequence editor tap the Edit (1) button.
2. Select the key frame to be edited. This adds the Time (2) and Delete (3) buttons to the
sequence editor.

3. Tap the Time button to edit the movement time.

4. Tap the Delete button to remove the key frame, all key frames after the deleted frame will move
down in order automatically.

1 2 3

A key frame cannot be entered mid-sequence.

Creating a Loop
A loop can be created to repeat a sequence a defined number of times.

1. From the Sequence Editor window tap the Loop button.

2. The ENTER FRAME TIME window opens, set the time (from the last frame in the sequence to
the first).

3. Tap Enter to close.

4. The ENTER LOOP COUNT window opens. Set the required number of loops and tap Enter to
exit.

The loop key frame displays in the Editor Window and reduces the maximum
number of key frames available to 17.

26
Cueing and Playing a Sequence
1. Select the desired sequence from the grid (1) and tap Cut (2), the robotic device will move to
the first key frame in the sequence. The sequence will turn purple to show it is cued ready to
play.

2. Tap Fade (3), the robotic device will follow the programmed sequence until it gets to the final
position, the sequence in the grid turns dark blue to signify it is on shot.

3. If a loop has been set then the robotic device will perform the set number of loops.

2 3

27
 Virtual Joystick Button
The Virtual Joystick Window provides a convenient method of manually controlling robotic
cameras from the touch screen when a control panel is not available. Tap Virtual Stick to open.

Dragging your finger across or along any of the

controls on the touch screen will operate that
control in a similar way to the control panel.

• The direction you drag your finger controls

the direction of movement

• The distance you drag your finger controls the

speed of movement

• Removing your finger from the touch screen

stops the movement

Tap Virtual Stick again to close. X/Y and Height controls are not
available on this version of the μVRC.

Options Menu
The Options Menu contains operation and configuration options for the currently selected camera,
allowing you to:

• Enable robotic cameras

• Turn X4 mode on and off

• Enter the CCU control screens

• Enter the Device Configuration screen

X4
The default zoom mode (zoom proportional) ensures that the speed of the pan and tilt movements
are proportional to the zoom angle of the camera lens. This means that pan and tilt move slowly
when you are zoomed in and quickly when you are zoomed out.

If X4 mode is switched on (zoom proportional mode is off), the pan and tilt movements are more
sensitive when zoomed in.

CCU
Tapping the CCU button opens up the camera functions and CCU control screens, where
functions and settings on a compatible connected camera can be used and adjusted. For more
information see - CCU Interfaces on page 66.

Device Configuration
Tapping the button opens the Device Configuration screen. Settings such as axis limits can be
adjusted on the currently selected camera. For more information see - Device Configuration on
page 47.

Tap Return in the Options menu to close the menu and return to the main screen.

28
Notifications Panel
The notifications panel displays VRC system information useful to the operator. The operator is
alerted to issues and errors, such as devices going offline.

1. Notifications appear as symbols in

the Notifications panel.

2. Tapping on the symbols opens the

Notifications window. Notifications
appear listed in the window.

3. Tap the Return button to exit the

Notifications window.

29
 Working with Shots and Shows
Shows are created by storing collections of camera position shots from one or more cameras. The
term ‘shows’ is historic, and stems from camera control systems originally being used purely for
the creation of TV shows. The term has been retained for consistence with existing users.

Show management
A show is a collection of stored shots from one or more cameras saved in a file. To store shots in
the grid display, either a new show must be created or an existing show must be loaded.

Tap Menu > Show Management to display the show management buttons.

Buttons Description

Load Load a show from the grid.

New Create a new show.

Delete Delete an existing show.

Import Import a show from a file.

Export Export a show to a file.

Unload Remove a show from the shot grid.

Rename Rename a show.

Copy Copy a show.

Only Admin users can permanently change shows – normal user’s changes only last
until the show is reloaded, or the software restarted.

Loading a New Show

1. Tap to select the desired show from the grid.
2. Tap the Load button.
3. The workspace is displayed with the selected show.

Creating a new show

1. Tap the New button.
2. Use the touch-screen keyboard to enter a name for the new show.
3. Tap Enter to return to the workspace, which is now ready to store shots in this new show.
The new show name is displayed in the title bar of the workspace.

30
Deleting a Show

There is NO undo option to recover a deleted a show, unless it has been backed up.

1. Select the desired show for deletion from the grid.

2. Tap the Delete button.
3. Tap YES to delete the show or NO to return without deleting.
Importing a show
1. Tap the Import button.
2. Tap Yes to continue with the import.
3. Use the file browser to locate the desired show. Tap Open to complete the import.

Exporting a show
1. Tap to select the desired show from the grid to export.
2. Tap the Export button.
3. Use the file browser to place the show in the desired location. Tap Save to complete the export.

Unloading a show
1. Tap the Unload button.
2. The current show and its stored shots is removed from the grid.
Renaming a show
1. Tap the Rename button.
2. Use the touch screen keyboard to enter a new name for the show.
3. Tap Enter to return to the workspace. The new show name is displayed in the title bar of the
workspace.

Copying a show
1. Tap to select the show to copy.
1. Tap the Copy button.
2. A duplicate of the show appears in the grid. The shows original name is retained, with the
addition of _Copy on the end.

A show must be loaded to enable shots to be stored.

31
 Adding Shots to a Show
Make sure that the required show is loaded.

1. Select the required camera on the touch-screen or the control panel.

2. Use the joystick and controls to move the camera into position for the shot, and then frame and
focus the shot.

3. Tap Store on the touch screen and touch a position on the grid to store the shot.
4. Type a name for the shot into the Shot name* field and tap Enter. The shot will be saved with
the default fade time** and its thumbnail displayed on the grid.

5. Repeat steps 2–5 for each required shot.

*A shot name cannot be entered if Require Shot Name is turned off in the User
Preferences screen. A number will be assigned to the shot instead.

**A specific fade time for the shot can be entered if Require Shot Time is turned on
in the User Preferences screen.

For more information, see Shot Options on page 38.

Managing Shots
The Edit menu provides options that let you:

• Rename or delete shots

• Modify the shot fade time

• Swap shot positions on the grid

From the workspace tap to select Edit to reveal the edit menu.

Only the latched delete, latched time and return buttons are available from the edit
menu until you select a shot on the grid.

Latched Delete
Use the latched delete function when you want to delete multiple shots. The normal delete mode
deletes a single shot and then returns you to the workspace. Latched delete keeps you in the edit
menu after each deletion.

1. Tap Latched Delete.

2. Tap a shot and confirm the deletion.
3. Tap another shot and confirm the deletion.
4. Repeat until all of the desired shots have been deleted.
5. Tap Latched Delete again to exit this mode.

32
Latched Time
Use the latched time function when you want to modify the time of multiple shots. The normal time
mode modifies a single shot and then returns you to the workspace. Latched time keeps you in the
edit menu after each shot is modified.

1. Tap Latched Time.

2. Tap the required shot and modify its time using the touch-screen keypad.
3. Tap another shot and modify its time.
4. Repeat until all of the desired shots have been modified.
5. Tap Latched Time again to exit this mode.

Other Edit Options

Edit Menu
Description
Option
Tap on the shot in the grid you wish to edit the name of. Tap Name and type in
Name the desired shot name and tap Enter to return to the workspace.
The shot name can be a maximum of 16 characters long.
Tap on the shot in the grid you wish to edit the time of. Tap Time and type in
Time
the desired shot time and tap Enter to return to the workspace.
To delete a single shot, tap the shot you want to delete from the grid display.
Delete
Tap Delete and Yes to delete the shot and return to the workspace.
Allows you to rearrange the position of the shots in the grid by exchanging
pairs of shots or exchanging a shot with an unused position. Tap the shot on
Swap
the grid display that you want to move. Tap Swap. Tap a second shot or an
unused location to swap the shots on the grid and return to the workspace.
Assign Assigns a different camera device to the shot, or related shots. See Assign
Device Shot Device below.

Return Tap Return to go back to the workspace.

Assign Shot Device

WARNING! Changes to the assignment of shots between devices can cause a risk of
personal injury or product damage. Ensure the motion of the product is monitored when
changes to settings are being carried out.
!
A stored shot, or group of related shots can be assigned to a different camera device.
1. Tapping the Assign Device button
opens the Assign Shot Device window.

2. Select the camera device from the

Select Device drop-down menu.

3. In the Scope panel, select whether

the assignment applies to the selected
shot or related shots in the show(s).

4. Tap the Apply button to store the new

assignment.

33
 5 Running a Show with the VRC
Cueing, Trimming and Tracking Shots
While a typical show is being aired, the VRC operator will be occupied with three primary tasks –
cueing, trimming and tracking shots.

Cueing shots
Cueing is the process of positioning the camera framing before it is used on air. It is important
that the VRC operator stays ahead of the shows run-down by cueing shots as early as possible.
As time permits, the operator can have two or three shots cued ahead of the run-down. The Cut,
Fade and Stop function buttons on the touch screen (and control panel) are used to start and stop
the movements of the robotic camera when cueing shots.

Shot Status Colour Codes

The current shot for each camera is shown on the touch screen in a Blue box. Dark Blue if the
shot is exactly as stored or light Blue if the shot has been trimmed. The VRC operator should
familiarise themselves with all the colour codes associated with a shot. See - Shot Status Colour
codes on page 20.

Adjusting Shot Fade Times

The stored fade time can always be modified on air (in real-time) using the time slider on the
virtual joystick.

The maximum fade time is 120 seconds.

Latched Cut or Fade Function

The cut or fade function can be latched to speed up system operation. Latching immediately
moves between the current and selected shots as soon as the new shot is selected. You do not
need to explicitly touch cut or fade to start the transition.

The fade function is not available when latched cut is enabled.

The cut function is not available when latched fade is enabled.

1. Ensure that no shots are currently cued (no shot thumbnails have a green background).
2. Tap the desired function for latching (Cut or Fade) on the touch screen – the button turns red to
denote latched mode.

3. Check that the operating area around the cameras is clear.

4. Select a shot on the touch screen. The thumbnail immediately turns red and the camera moves
to the selected shot.

5. Select other shots as required. In each case the thumbnail immediately turns red and the
camera moves to the selected shot.

6. Tap Cut or Fade again on the touch-screen to return to the normal control mode (Cut and Fade
available).

34
Fading or Cutting multiple shots
The number of shots that can be selected at one time is controlled by the Single Selection mode in
the User Preferences screen. See - Shot Preferences on page 39.

• If Single Selection mode is ON (button is blue), you can only select one shot on one camera at
a time. If you select another shot, the previously selected shot is automatically deselected.

• If Single Selection mode is OFF, you can select a shot on more than one camera. When you
then select fade or cut, all of the cameras will start moving at the same time.

Trimming shots
After a camera arrives “on shot” and before it is on air, the VRC operator will want to take control
at the joystick panel and check the framing and focus of the shot and trim the shot as needed. This
lets the operator correct for things like the subject not being exactly in position.

The focus function, available from the touch-screen can be used for this purpose. See - Focus
Button on page 23.

After trimming a shot the stored shot cell will turn light Blue. The operator can replace the existing
shot with the trimmed shot by storing it (tap store and then touch the shot), ensuring the shot is
correctly framed for the rest of the current show. The stored shot cell will then turn dark blue.

Real Time Tracking

You can use the joystick panel to follow live movement.

Select the required camera at the control panel and track the shot as needed.

35
 6 VRC Configuration
The VRC can be set up and configured to suit the preferences of the user. Parameters relating to
the user interface and control of attached cameras can be easily adjusted.

User Preferences
The user preferences screen provides many options for changing parameters and preferences
relating to the user interface, camera controls and shot management.

To access the screen, tap Menu > User Preferences.

Changes made to the User Preferences are global (all cameras/devices)

and saved for the current user logged in.

Buttons with a blue background indicate that a toggled parameter or mode is ON. After making the
required changes on this screen tap Return to go back to the workspace. The screen is divided
into configuration groups:

• Grid Display Options • Shot Preferences

• Panel Options • Group Display Preferences

• Shot Options • CCU Recall Preferences

• Camera Control

Grid Display Options

Options Description

Tap to change the size of the shot storage grid. Tap OK to confirm any
Grid Size changes. The minimum grid size is 2 x 3 per page. The maximum grid
size is 9 x 16 per page.
Turns the column and row headers (ABC/123) on or off. The headers
Display Headers
are particularly useful when a show extends over multiple pages.
When this option is enabled and a camera is selected, the editing grid
Per Camera Display will only show thumbnails for shots stored for that camera. All other
shots in the grid will be shown as grey boxes.

36
Panel Options

Options Description

Display Full Panel Expands the size of the Camera Selection and Status panel.

Enters the Stick Preferences screen, where you can change the
Stick Preferences
parameters of the camera controls.

Stick Preferences
The stick preference screen gives you the
option to change the behaviour of the main
camera axis controls. Each axis can be
adjusted as follows:

ALWAYS turn off X4 on the control panel before adjusting the zoom profile.

Options Description

These parameters select the behaviour of each axis control to suit your
preferences. For example, pushing the joystick away from you can
Normal/Reverse
cause the head/camera to tilt up or down. Tap to select Normal (button
is blue) or Reverse (button is black).
This adapts the profile of each axis control to suit your preferences.
Compound/Linear/
Compound (a combination of linear for small movements and
Exponential
compound for larger movements) is the most common choice.
The gain is used to set the velocity of the movement of the robotic
camera or lens, with the gain setting of 100 being the fastest speed of
movement. The deadband setting is used to adjust the amount of play
that is felt in the joystick before the camera or lens starts to move.
Gain/Deadband
Before changing the gain or deadband settings for the joysticks, you
should select the desired profile (Compound, Linear or Exponential).

Use the up/down arrows to adjust the gain and deadband settings.

Defaults Restores the factory default settings for all the stick preferences.

Stores the current settings of stick preferences in the profile of the

Save
currently logged in user.

Cancel Returns to the User Preferences screen without making any changes.

Separate profile, gain and deadband adjustments for the tilt joystick are not provided,
because the pan and tilt settings are synchronised. Any change to the pan gain or
deadband will be replicated in the tilt joystick.

37
 Shot Options

Options ON (Blue) OFF (Black)

The name of each shot is

Display Shot Name superimposed in the stored shot The shot name is not displayed.
cells.
The system will automatically
You will be prompted to type in
assign a number to each saved
a name when you store a new
Require Shot Name shot. This can save time but
shot. This is the most common
the shot names are no longer
mode of operation.
descriptive.
The time of each shot is
Display Shot Time superimposed in the stored shot The time is not displayed.
cells.
The default shot time is used
for each stored shot. This is the
You will be prompted to enter a most common mode of operation
Require Shot Time
time when you store a shot. because it is faster than entering
times each time you store a new
shot.

Camera Control

Options ON (Blue) OFF (Black)

A camera that has been selected

A camera can only be deselected
Deselect can be deselected by tapping it
by selecting a different camera.
on the screen.
Selecting a camera at one
A message appears requesting
controller immediately takes
you to confirm that you want to
Always Take Rudely control away from a second
take control of the camera from the
controller that may have been
other controller.
using the camera.
For a robotic camera that is in
motion during a cut or fade, For a robotic camera that is in
selecting STOP on the touch motion during a cut or fade,
-screen or on the control panel selecting STOP on the touch
will immediately stop movement. -screen or on the control panel will
Always Stop Fast cause the camera to decelerate
This abrupt change of motion and coast to a stop.
is not desirable for a camera
that is on air, but does ensure This smooth change of motion is
an immediate stop to avoid a desirable if the camera is on air.
collision.

38
Shot Preferences

Options ON (Blue) OFF (Black)

The shot selection on the touch-

When you select a shot on the screen and the camera preview
touch-screen, the camera preview selection are decoupled. So, let’s say
selection on the joystick control that one camera1 is on air and being
Take Camera
panel automatically follows and the trimmed with the joysticks. You can
joysticks will control the camera for select the next shot on camera3 and
the selected shot. fade or cut to it while continuing to
trim camera1 with the joysticks.
Allows you to select a shot on one
camera at a time and then cut Allows you to select shots on multiple
Single
or fade to that shot. Selecting a cameras and then cut or fade to all of
Selection
second shot on a different camera the shots at the same time.
automatically deselects the first shot.
Every time you delete or replace a Shots will be deleted or replaced
Delete shot a warning message appears immediately. This mode should be
Warning and requires you to confirm the used with caution, because there is no
deletion or replacement. undo feature to restore a deleted shot.
Allows you to enter a default time
that will be used when you store
Default Time
shots (if the Require Shot Time
function is off).
When you select a shot on the
touch-screen, you can only deselect
When you select a shot on the
that shot by selecting a different shot
Allow Deselect touch-screen, you can deselect that
on the same camera. Touching a
shot by tapping it a second time.
selected shot a second time has no
effect.
Displays the Primary Panel Groups
bar showing the camera mapping
groups. The Primary Panel Groups bar is not
Show Main
displayed and cameras are assigned
Panel Groups The height of each row of stored to their default buttons.
shot cells in the editing pane is
reduced slightly.
Displays the Preview Panel Groups
bar showing the camera mapping
Show Preview groups, below the Primary Panel
Groups bar. The Preview Panel Groups bar is not
Panel
displayed.
Groups The height of each row of stored
shot cells in the editing pane is
reduced slightly.
Displays the Primary Panel Groups Displays the Primary and Preview
and Preview Panel Groups bars, Panel Groups bars between the
Dock On Top
if enabled, above the Stored Shot Stored Shot Editing grid and the
Editing grid. Camera Selection and Status bar.

39
 CCU Recall Preferences

Options Description

Tap Iris to recall only the Iris setting with the shot. Iris recall can be
Iris selected with or without Master Black recall. If All is selected, the
setting of Iris is ignored.
Tap Master Black to recall only the Master Black setting with the shot.
Master Black Master Black recall can be selected with or without Iris Recall. If All is
selected, the setting of Master Black is ignored.
Tap All to recall all stored camera functions and CCU parameters with
All
the shot. This will override the Iris and Master Black selections.

Configuration Management
The Configuration Management Screen provides an interface for:

• Adding and changing camera components

• User Management

• Adding and managing EPIs

For more information on adding and changing camera components, see Setting up a Basic VRC
System on page 6.

To access the screen, tap Menu > Configuration Management.

User Management
In the System panel, tap the Users button. The User Management window opens. By default, the
user Admin has been created as a Superuser. A Superuser has the right to add and delete other
users.

At least one Superuser must be present on the system to allow access to User
Management. The last remaining Superuser cannot be removed.

40
Adding a User
1. Tap the Add button. A new user named
Unknown appears in the list. 5
2. Name the user in the User field. 1
3. Provide a password in the Password
field (leave blank for no password). 6
2 3 4
4. Select the Role of the user (Operator
or Superuser).

5. Tap the Update button.

Deleting a User
To delete a user, select the user from the
list and tap the Delete button (6).

When all the required changes have been made, tap the Return button to exit the User
Management window.

Capture Card Configuration

If a video capture card is installed and connected into the VRC system, it can be setup in the
Capture Card Configuration window.

In the System field, tap the Capture Card button. The Capture Card Configuration window opens.

1. Tap the browse (...) button to open the Capture

Mode Selection window.

2. Tap to select the required capture mode* from

the drop-down menu and tap the Ok button.

3. In the Properties panel, select the video

source* from the drop-down menu.

41
 4. Set the media type* (video standard) from the
drop-down menu.

5. Tap the Apply button to store the changes and

exit the Capture Card Configuration window.

* Refer to the documentation supplied with the capture card.

Video Router Configuration

If a video router is connected into the VRC system, it can be setup in the Video Router
Configuration window.

In the Client panel, tap the Video Router button. The Video Router Configuration window opens.

1. Select the protocol* of the switcher from

the Protocol drop down list. 1 2
2. Select the transport type* of the switcher
from the Transport drop down list.
3

3. Change the number offset* for the

switcher by using the arrows in the
Output field. This is the video output
number the preview monitor is connected
to on the switcher.

4. Change the switcher number level* using

the arrows in the Level field.

* Refer to the documentation supplied with the video router.

42
Configurable Video Router Settings
If the Configurable option is selected from the
Protocol drop-down menu, settings can be applied
for a specific video router configuration.

Source offset: This is the input on the video router

that the first camera is connected to. Subsequent
cameras must be connected contiguously (some
video routers number from 0 and others from 1).

The example shown is for a Blackmagic video hub.

4

For further help and advice for

configurable video router settings,
please contact Vinten.

The switching function of the video inputs will not work until the inputs have been
configured. Refer to the section Camera Inputs Configuration on page 45.

Adding and Configuring Non-Robotic Cameras

Non-robotic cameras in studios, such as those fitted to manual heads and pedestals, can also be
integrated into the VRC system for tally and video router configuration. This allows a camera to
be selected from the control panel or touch-screen to switch on-air video and tally indication in the
same way as other connected camera units.

1. Drag Null Device from the Device Profiles list onto the device storage grid.
2. Name the new device in the Device Properties panel.

3. When applied, the new named device will appear on the camera selection bar.

Video and switcher lines can now be configured for the device. See the section Camera Inputs
Configuration on page 45.

43
 Joystick Panels Configuration
Connected joystick panels can be added and configured into the VRC system, using the Joystick
Panel Configuration window.

In the Client panel, tap the Joystick Panels button. The Joystick Panel Configuration window
opens. Joystick panels already added and configured in the system are displayed in the
Configured Panels list.

1. To add a joystick panel, click the + button.

2. In the Add Joystick Panel window, select

the required panel from the drop-down
menu and tap OK.

3. In the properties panel:

4. Assign a name to the panel. 4
5
5. Select the panel connection protocol from
the Transport drop-down menu (serial/ 6 a
TCP).

6. Enter the connections settings:

(a) If serial, set the appropriate com port
from the drop-down menu.

(b) If TCP, enter the IP address and port

number of the panel.
6 b

44
Camera Inputs Configuration
If optional video switchers and tally devices are connected to the VRC system, video and tally
indicator channels can be assigned to individual camera units. When a camera is selected for
control, the appropriate tally indicator line and video channel are displayed.

1. From the main VRC workspace tap Menu > Camera Inputs. The Camera Inputs window opens,
displaying all available camera units for configuration.

2. Configure each camera device as

appropriate: a b c

(a) Select the video input channel

from the drop-down menu.

(b) Select the tally device (by name)

and tally line to be used for on-air
indication.

(c) Select the tally device (by name)

and tally line to be used for
preview indication.

Sorting Camera Positions

If a multiple number of cameras are present on the VRC system, the order they appear on the
Camera Selection and Status bar can be changed. This is useful to identify and select frequently
used cameras quickly during operation. In the Camera Inputs window:

1. Tap and drag on the left hand bar of a camera to a new location (example shows camera named
Vantage1 being moved to the last position).

2. On release the camera is displayed in the new position.

When camera positions are changed, the physical connections on the switcher must
also be changed to match the new order.

45
 About Screen and License Management
The About screen displays software and license
information. The License management window is also
accessed from the screen.

To access the screen, tap Menu > About. The current

software version and licenses are displayed.

Tap Return to exit.

License Management
If additional features and functions are purchased to upgrade the μVRC or HD-VRC, a license key
is issued. This license key must be applied to activate the new features. When you purchase a
software license, you will be issued with a license serial number. To obtain your license key, you
must go to the Vinten website and use the online license request form. You will need:

• The system ID

• Your name (individual or organisation)

• The license serial number

In the About screen, tap the Update License button. The License Management window opens.

3
2

The System ID is a unique code for your installation of the VRC application. The System ID
1 must be quoted when purchasing additional licenses.

There are two ways to apply a license key:

Copy and paste the new license key into the Key field. Tap the Apply button to activate the
2 new license.

If you have a license file, tap the Padlock icon. When the Windows browser opens,
3 navigate to the appropriate license file (*.lic file) and tap Open. Tap the Apply button and
restart the VRC application to activate the new license.

46
Device Configuration
WARNING! Changes to the configuration settings of robotic products can cause a risk of
personal injury or product damage. Ensure the motion of the product is monitored when
changes to settings are being carried out.
!
Connected robotic cameras, such as Vantage heads, can be configured to adjust settings for the
range and characteristics of movement.

1. Select the appropriate camera head.

2. Tap Opts > Device Configuration.
3. The Device Configuration screens open, with two tabs available for selection - Axis Gains and
Axis Limits.

Changing the Camera Axis Gain Settings

Robotic cameras can be configured to adjust the axis gain settings, changing the motion response
of the head to joystick control. Each axis can also be inverted to reverse joystick control. Axis gain
settings can be easily set, changed or cleared.

1 Adjust the Gain* settings for Pan or Tilt tapping the up/down arrows.

2 Tapping the Default button for Pan or Tilt restores factory defaults for gain settings.

Tapping the Invert** button for Pan or Tilt reverses the movement direction of the axis
3 when controlled by the joystick.

*When adjusting the gain settings, it takes approximately 3 seconds for the last
adjustment to take effect.

**The Invert setting is for when the robotic device is celling mounted, or the cradle is
inverted. Using the invert setting ensures that joystick control (camera movement) is
consistent for all devices.

47
 Changing the Camera Axis Limits
Robotic cameras can be configured to limit the range of movement in axes of motion. This is
useful to prevent collision with a wall or ceiling, or the tilt axis colliding with the head itself. Axis
limits can be easily set, changed or cleared.

Each axis displayed in a separate panel (example shown is the pan axis).

1 2

7 3

6 5 4

1 Current position marker of the camera on the axis

2 Mid-point of the axis

3 Set/Clear buttons for the positive axis end limit

4 Current positive axis end limit marker

5 Zero axis value button

6 Current Negative axis end limit marker

7 Set/Clear buttons for the negative axis end limit

Resetting the Axis Centre Point

The centre points of the camera control axes can be set at any position required.

In a typical installation, pan is set with the camera pointing at the main area of interest in
a production, and tilt set with the camera platform horizontal.

1. Drive the camera to the desired position on the axis.

2. Tap the Zero button in the appropriate axis panel.
3. The current position marker (blue triangle) returns to the centre point and is reset to 0.00°.

48
Setting Axis Limit Points
The range of the camera control axes can be restricted by setting limit points. The procedure
described below is identical for all axes and positive and negative limits.

1. Drive the camera to the desired limit position on the axis.

2. Tap the Set button for the appropriate axis limit end (positive or negative).
3. The axis end limit marker (red rectangle) moves to the new limit point and the limit position
value is displayed in degrees.

Clearing Axis Limit Points

Camera control axes limit points can be easily cleared and changed at any time. The procedure
described below is identical for all axes and positive and negative limits.

1. Tap the Clear button for the appropriate axis limit point (positive or negative) to remove the
current limit point position.

2. A new limit can be applied by driving to a new position and tapping Set.

49
 EPI Configuration
A more complex VRC system installation may consist of two or more VRC controller computers
connected on the same network. These can be HD-VRC or μVRC controllers, or a mixture of both,
and are referred to as EPIs.

A basic EPI consists of:

• A VRC controller computer running the VRC control and EPI server applications

• Camera units and other devices added and configured on the VRC controller

EPIs in the VRC system can be added to any other VRC controller. This allows other controllers to
connect to compatible camera units and devices already configured in the EPI.

Two VRC controllers can be grouped together within one EPI. This has the advantage of allowing
the control of shared camera units and devices to continue uninterrupted if one of the VRC
controllers goes offline or fails.

In more advanced and complex VRC systems, the configuration of EPIs can be replicated onto
others to provide a full backup option for controlling devices which is constantly updated when
changes are made.

! Important Information About Configuring and Using EPIs

It is important to understand the guidelines and limitations when working with EPIs. When a user
takes control or makes changes to camera units and devices within a remote EPI added on the
local VRC controller, there are potential consequences for other system users.

WARNING! Controlling and changing the configuration settings of robotic products in

remote EPIs can cause a risk of personal injury or product damage. Ensure the motion of
the product is monitored when controlling or changing settings.
!

IMPORTANT! To ensure reliable and consistent operation, it is strongly recommended

that all of the VRC controllers are running the same version of the VRC application
software. VRC controllers running version 2.4 application software will not be compatible
!
with controllers running version 2.5 or above. Update any previous versions before
configuring or grouping EPIs.

When adding, grouping or removing EPIs:

• Carry out the procedures described to ensure consistency with the EPI configurations across
all VRC controllers in the system. Refer to the section Working with EPIs and EPI Groups on
page 56.

• Consult other users before making changes to EPIs, especially when deleting configured
devices.

• Changes to devices or device configuration on one EPI will not be visible on other EPIs unless
replication is enabled. Refer to the section Replication on page 60.

50
EPIs Tab Panel
EPIs are created and configured in the EPIs tab panel, located on the top left side of the
Configuration Management screen.

2
1

3
5

1 EPI name

2 The number of EPIs currently in the VRC system

3 Scroll arrows (used if the number of EPIs listed can’t be displayed in the panel)

4 The number of configured devices available in the EPI

5 VRC controllers (hosts) grouped in the EPI

51
 EPI Panel Symbols
Symbols are used in the EPI panel to indicate important information and carry out actions.

Symbol Function Description

Indicates the EPI hosts are connected, powered and

Synchronised
synchronised.

Indicates the EPIs are currently not synchronised, either due to

Unsynchronised
a restart, failure or loss of connectivity.

Indicates the local VRC controller within the EPI (the controller
Local
you are currently located at and operating)

Selected Indicates the primary VRC controller within the EPI.

Connection errors between EPIs detected or configuration of

Errors Detected
connected devices is incomplete and cannot be applied.

Configuration Changes have been made to the configuration of one or more

Changes connected devices, but not yet applied.

Tap to remove a VRC controller from the current grouping and

Unlink
return it to a separate EPI.

Remove Tap to remove the EPI from the local VRC controller.

52
Adding an EPI
To add an EPI for selection by the current VRC controller:

1. Tap the + button in the bottom right corner of the EPI panel.

2. In the Add EPI window type either the IP

address or the network name* of the VRC
controller.

3. Tap the OK button. The EPI will appear in

the EPI tab panel.

*The network naming convention of the VRC controllers must conform with standards
allowing the devices to be contactable by name over the network. It is recommended
that the IP address is used instead of the network name.

Grouping

Grouped VRC controllers must be on the same local subnet network.

To group together two VRC controllers into a single EPI:

1. Ensure the other VRC controller is added to the system as a standalone EPI.
2. Tap to select the EPI which will form the
group (turns dark green).

3. Drag the other required EPI into the spare

box on the EPI to create the group.

53
 4. If the EPI being added into the group has
configured devices on it, they will be lost in
the grouping process. If this is acceptable,
tap the Yes button in the Confirm Grouping
window.

5. The VRC controller box will turn red whilst restarting. After several seconds the controller will
turn green indicating successful grouping and synchronisation.

6. Repeat the grouping procedure on the other VRC controller:

(a) Ensure the EPIs are grouped in the same order to avoid synchronisation errors.
(b) Apply the changes and restart the VRC application.

Ungrouping
To ungroup two VRC controllers into two separate EPIs:

1. Tap the Unlink symbol on the VRC controller to leave

the group.

2. In the Confirm Ungroup window tap the Yes button to

proceed.

54
3. The ungrouped VRC controller separates into a standalone EPI and restarts. The VRC
controller box will turn red whilst restarting. After several seconds the controller will turn green
indicating successful ungrouping and synchronisation.

4. Repeat the ungrouping procedure on the other VRC controller:

(a) Tap the Unlink symbol on the VRC with the error symbol displayed.
(b) Tap the Yes button in the Confirm Ungroup window.

(c) Because the VRC controller has already

been ungrouped on the other controller,
there is a synchronisation issue. In the
Confirm Force Ungroup window tap the
Yes button to confirm.

5. The VRC controller is removed from the group and the EPI panel list. Re-add as a separate EPI
if required.

55
 Working with EPIs and EPI Groups
EPI Information
Key information about the EPI can be displayed by double-tapping on it in the EPI tab list.

2
5
3 6
7

1 EPI name

2 The number of devices currently added in the EPI

3 Synchronisation status

4 EPI information panel (VRC controller details)

5 Sync Conflict indication - Tap Resolve to fix configuration conflict issues

6 Configuration status

7 EPI information tab for second VRC controller (in a grouped EPI)

8 Tap Return to exit the information window.

56
Controlling Devices
When a remote EPI has been added to the local VRC controller, compatible devices already
configured can be controlled.

1. Tap to select the added EPI from the EPI tab panel list.
2. Camera units and devices configured on the EPI appear in the device storage grid.

3. Enable compatible devices by

tapping the white button (turns
blue when the device enables).

4. Tap the Apply button. In the

Reload EPI Configuration
window, tap the Yes to confirm
the changes.

5. Tap Return and confirm a restart. After a restart, compatible

devices from the remote EPI will now appear on the camera
selection bar. If any devices on the EPI are not compatible
with your controller configuration, they appear on the bar
with a grey hash and are not selectable for control.

57
 Take Camera Control
If cameras are being used by another VRC
controller, they appear in dark blue on the camera
selection bar.

When selected, the Take Camera? window opens.

If this is acceptable, tap Yes to take control of the
camera from another operator.

Adding, Configuring and Removing Devices in an EPI

Camera units and other devices can be added, configured and removed from an EPI at any time.
However, any changes made affect other users connected to the EPI on other VRC controllers. It
is therefore important to:

• Consult other users before making any device changes

• Follow the procedures detailed carefully to avoid EPI errors and inconsistent operation

To create a VRC system where configuration is constantly updated on all VRC controllers without
the need for manual intervention, a replication service can be setup. See the section Replication
on page 60.

Adding and Configuring Devices

1. At the local VRC controller:
(a) With the correct EPI selected, add a camera or device as normal, and configure as required.
(b) Perform any other configuration changes to devices in the EPI.
(c) Apply the new devices and configurations as normal, allowing the VRC application to restart
so the changes take effect.

2. At all the other VRC controllers in the system using the

EPI:

(a) In the Configuration Management screen the Reload

EPI Configuration window will be displayed.

(b) Tap the Yes button to proceed, observing that any

local changes made to the EPI will be lost and
cannot be recovered.

3. Apply the configuration changes and allow the VRC

application to restart on all the VRC controllers using
the EPI.

58
Removing Devices

IMPORTANT! Removing devices from an EPI on a local VRC controller also removes
them from all other controllers using the EPI. Any configuration will be lost. Consult other
users before proceeding.
!
1. With the EPI selected, tap the red X on the device to remove it from the device storage grid.
2. Apply the configuration changes and allow the VRC application to restart on all the VRC
controllers using the EPI.

3. Apply the configuration changes on the other VRC controllers using the EPI.

EPI Errors
Any errors detected either with an EPI or communication between EPIs are highlighted to aid
diagnostics.

The errors symbol is displayed on the affected EPI/controller. Tapping on the Errors tab displays
details for the errors.

When errors have been resolved, they are automatically removed from the list.

59
 Replication
In more complex VRC systems where two or more VRC controllers need to be kept constantly
synchronised when changes are made to device configuration, the replication service can be set
up and used.

The replication service ensures that all databases in the replication group are kept in step with the
relevant data (i.e. they are all mirrors of each other). The Replication Configuration Tool defines
which controller databases are in the replication group.

A license is required to activate the replication functions.

Starting the Replication Service

During normal operation, the replication service should start automatically. However it may be
necessary to start the service manually.

1. In the Windows menu, search for “services”

and select to open.

2. In the Services window, scroll down the list

of applications to find “Vrcs Replication”.
Tap and hold on the line.

3. When the menu appears select Start. The

Startup Type should be set to Automatic.

4. After the replication service has started,

close the Services windows.

5. Repeat the process on the other VRC

controllers which will form the replication
group.

60
Configuring the Replication Service
When the Replication Service has been started on the VRC controllers, the Replication
Configuration Tool is used to create a replication group. The Replication Configuration Tool can be
used on any of the VRC controllers.

1. In the Windows menu tap to select Vinten Radamec Robotics > Replication Tool.

2. The Replication Tool window opens. Tap the Yes

button in the Warning message to continue.

3. The VRC controller running the Replication Tool is

already added in the Replication Group list.

4. Tap The Add button and enter the IP address of

an additional controller into the IP Address field
and tap the Register button.

5. Register all the other VRC controllers required to

be part of the replication group.

6. When the replication group is complete, tap the Replicate All button.
7. When the replication process has completed, close the Replication Tool.
8. Reopen the Services window, scroll down the list of applications to find “Vrcs Replication”. Tap
and hold on the line.

9. When the menu appears select Refresh. After the replication service has restarted, close the
Services window. Repeat the process on the other VRC controllers which are in the replication
group. This will ensure that the databases are synchronised immediately.

Using Replication
When replication is running, device configurations are constantly updated across all the VRC
controllers in the replication group. However, when device changes (adding, configuring or
removing) are made:

• Consult other users before making configuration changes

• All the VRC controllers need to be restarted for configuration changes to take effect globally

61
 Button Mapping
The default order in which camera units appear on the control panel buttons and touch-screen
buttons is determined when devices are added to the VRC controller configuration. The Button
Profile Configuration Tool can be used to map any camera to any button (or multiple buttons) on
the control panel and touch-screen as part of a button map group. You can define multiple button
map groups of cameras to match your workflow.

From the windows menu, tap to select the Button Profile Configuration Tool (in the Vinten
Robotics folder).

Creating a Panel Group:

1. Tap the New button. The New Panel
Group window opens:

(a) Type the name of the new group (for a

example Studio A) in the Group name
field.
b
(b) Select the appropriate control panel
type from the Panel type drop down
list.

2. Tap Save to create the new panel group,

or touch Cancel to exit without creating
the panel group.

After a panel group is created, you cannot change the panel type. The panel group
must be deleted and created again.

The Button Profile Configuration Tool shows the new group ready for configuration:

1 2

1 Groups Panel - The newly created group and any other groups are listed

2 Group Preview Panel - The camera select buttons for the current panel are displayed

62
 A mouse is required to perform the click and drag functions in the Button Mapping
Configuration Tool. Connect a mouse to the local VRC controller.

1. Tap the Edit button to display a list in the left-hand

panel of all available devices that can be mapped
to buttons.

2. Left-click and hold on a device and drag and drop it onto the desired button in the Group
Preview Panel. You can assign the same device to more than one button if you wish. In the
example below the Vantage head has been mapped to button 1 and button 9.

3. To delete a device from a button, left-click

and hold Delete and drag and drop it on the
desired button (example show Vantage head
removed from button 9).

4. Tap the Save button to store the button map group.

63
 Editing a Panel Group
1. Select the desired group from the list of available groups in the Groups Panel.
2. Tap the Edit button.
3. Left-click and hold on a device and drag and drop it onto the desired button in the right-hand
panel. Or, left-click and hold Delete and drag and drop it on a button to remove a device from
that button.

4. Tap the Save button to store the modified button map group.
When button mapping configuration is complete, close the Button Profile Configuration Tool.

Using Button Map Groups

Configured button map groups can be easily selected for use in the VRC application.

To display button map groups in the main VRC workspace window:

1. Tap Menu > User Preferences.

2. In the Group Display Preferences panel,
enable Show Main Panel Groups.

In then main VRC workspace window, available button map groups are displayed in the Primary
Panel Groups bar. Selecting a map group changes the order and selection of cameras in the
Camera Selection and Status bar. The button map configuration is also applied to the camera
buttons on the connected control panel.

64
65
 CCU Interfaces
The instructions in this chapter must be used in conjunction with the documentation
supplied with your camera.

CCU (Camera Control Unit), is a TV studio term where a separate, external box was often used to
control camera functions, such as colour matching. It is now used generically to describe adjusting
camera options.

If cameras installed in the VRC system have a compatible remote control interface, you can
control camera functions from the user interface. CCU parameters are saved with each shot.
When a shot is recalled, the CCU parameters can be recalled if required.

The camera functions and CCU controls available are dependent on the manufacturer
and model of the camera. For a full list of functions and controls for each camera
protocol, see - CCU Database on page 69.

Displaying the CCU Control Screen

To display the functions and CCU control screens for a camera:

1. Tap Opts > CCU to display the Functions and CCU control screens for the selected camera.
Each camera has a tabbed menu screen for camera functions and CCU controls. Buttons with a
green background are functions that are ON. Buttons with a black background on the screen are
OFF.

2. Tap Return to close the CCU screen and return to the workspace.

CCU parameters changed using the camera’s menu system (either on the camera, or
using the μVRC remote menu control) are NOT stored with shots. Only parameters
that are directly modified from the μVRC CCU control buttons are stored.

If the CCU button is red, or turns red at any time, communication with the camera has
been lost.

Typical Camera Functions and CCU Controls

The camera functions and CCU controls available vary widely depending on the manufacturer and
model of the connected camera and the protocol used. To demonstrate how the interface works, a
typical camera has been chosen to provide an example. For a full list of functions and controls for
each camera protocol, see CCU Database on page 69.

Camera Functions Tab

The first tab on the CCU screen displays
the camera functions for the connected
camera. Buttons with a green background
indicate that a function is selected or ON.
Buttons with a grey background indicated
that a function is not available

66
Many function buttons are a simple ON/OFF toggle such as Auto Focus or Color Bars. Functions
being controlled or changed are seen on the camera’s built in screen or video output.

Other function buttons open a sub menu, providing multiple selection settings such as WB Mode.

Tap a setting button to make a change and

return to the main screen.

On many cameras, it is possible to access and control the built-in menu system. Changes can be
made and stored remotely.

It is important that the user can see the on-screen display of the camera via a video
monitor screen when navigating camera menus and making changes.

Tap the Menu button. Use the navigation buttons

(right hand side of the screen) to scroll through the
menus. Tap the Confirm button to enter a sub-menu
or save a change. Use the Cancel button to discard
a change.

Tap the Menu button again to exit the camera’s

menu system.

67
 CCU Controls Tab
The second tab on the CCU screen displays the CCU control functions for the connected camera.

Tap the Up/Down arrows to adjust individual settings as required. Red arrows indicate that
the setting is available for adjustment. Observe changes on the camera’s on-screen display or
video output. Some functions have an indicator bar and display the setting value for precise
adjustments.

Grey Up/Down arrows indicate a setting cannot currently be adjusted. This could
be because the function is currently set to “auto”. Most functions can be changed to
“manual” control in the Camera Functions Tab.

Many camera models have physical switches that prevent manual remote control.
Refer to the documentation supplied with your camera for more information.

68
CCU Database
The tables in this section list cameras/camera protocols compatible with the VRC system. The
camera functions and CCU controls available vary between the various camera models and
protocols. The specific features are listed for each camera.

Although these features vary between cameras, they are operated in the same way as
demonstrated in the section Typical Camera Functions and CCU Controls on page 66.

Sony CNA-1 Features

Iris Mode Green Gain

Nd Filter Blue Gain

Cc Filter Red Pedestal

Black Stretch Green Pedestal

Auto White Balance Blue Pedestal

Bars Master Black

Red Gain Iris Level

Sony BRC Features

Auto Focus Menu* (Menu off)

Auto White Balance Blue Gain

AWC Mode Red Gain

Color Bars Iris

Exposure Mode

* When operating the menu, joystick and shot recall functions are unavailable.

Sony Lanc Features

Auto Focus Menu

Auto Iris Iris

69
 Panasonic PTZ Features

Auto Iris Auto White Balance

Auto Focus Auto Black Balance

AWC Mode Color Bars

Menu Red Gain

Scene File Blue Gain

AGC Master Pedestal (Master Black)

Shutter Select Iris

Synchro Scan Menu Navigation

ISO/Gain

Panasonic
Features
AK-UB300

Auto Iris Auto White Balance

Menu Auto Black Balance

Crop Out Selection Color Bars

Crop Adj Selection Red Gain

Crop Marker Blue Gain

Crop Horizontal Position Red Ped

Crop Vertical Position Blue Ped

Nd Filter Master Pedestal

Shutter Select Iris

Shutter Switch Scene File

Shutter Speed

70
Canon CINE EOS
Features
(RC-V100)

Auto Focus Iris

Color Bars ISO/Gain

Auto Iris Knee Point

Auto Knee White Balance B

On Screen Overlay Master Black B

Shutter Select Black Gamma

WB Mode Shutter Speed

Menu Knee Slope

AGC White Balance R

Custom Picture Master Black R

Record Review Sharpness

Nd Filter Master Pedestal

Record Start/Stop

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Publication No. V4063-4980/1

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