NAB 2024: Panasonic Connect to debut Kairos Core 200 AT-KC200L1
Panasonic Connect Europe will be highlighting the latest Kairos mainframe, as well as compact live switcher enhancements and new software functionality at NAB 2024.
The company will be introducing the new mainframe Kairos Core 200 AT-KC200L1 and the latest software update (version 1.7), including smart routing functionality. The AT-KC200L1, which supports SDI I/O as standard, and the new smart routing functionality, provide improved video quality and productivity when using Kairos for broadcasting, events, sports and in the corporate and education markets.
The AT-KC200L1 mainframe is equipped with similar functionality as the second-generation Kairos Core 200 (AT-KC200) announced in June 2023. It supports 24 inputs/12 outputs (FHD) as standard but offers more flexible video production to customers using SDI-based video production systems. In addition, up to 32 inputs/16 outputs (FHD) can be supported by installing the optional AT-KC20M1 SDI I/O board.
The 1.7 version software update is compatible with all Kairos mainframes (AT-KC2000/2000S1, AT-KC200/200L1 and AT-KC1000/KC100) and enables a new function called Smart Routing. It automatically imports video from the network switch into Kairos to enable the virtual handling of a larger number of input sources. As a result, video bandwidth limitations are removed when using a large number of inputs on Kairos for video production.
Panasonic has also announced the May 2024 release of enhancements to its AV-HSW10 compact live switcher to improve the efficiency and quality of video production for webinars and other live events. The AV-HSW10 will combine the stability of Panasonic’s broadcast and professional hardware switchers with the scalability of a software solution. Updates include firmware version 2.00 for streamlined setup and the free AV-SF10 software control panel for efficient one-person operation and remote operation.
The updates will further enhance seamless video-production environments connected to Panasonic PTZ cameras, including support for various IP transmission standards designed for today’s video-production needs. Also, integration with RP Link and tally control via IP connections will facilitate high-quality online communication.
Following the high-end AV-UHS500, the updated AV-HSW10 will also generate a moving colour-bar to expedite setup time at live events, especially those with LED walls and large displays. Colour bars available in moving and still picture mode will enable checks for missing dots in LEDs and displays and video output for IP connections, eliminating the need for an external test signal generator.
The new software control panel will allow switcher functions to be conveniently controlled from a PC or tablet (Windows 10/11 or MacOS Monterey/Ventura/Sonoma). Detailed settings and confirmation of input/output sources, conventionally performed with buttons and knobs, can be easily executed with a PC keyboard or touch screen. Functions exclusive to a software control panel, such as sequencing of shot memory, direct write/replace of still memory will be possible for more efficient pre-shoot preparation and on-shoot review. The GUI will integrate the control screen, live video monitoring and multiviewer, similar to Panasonic’s large switchers, for easy switching between multiple video inputs/outputs. The intuitive GUI can be used by a single person, including operators with minimal experience.