Graybow Communications Group Integrates Vaddio WallVIEW HD-18 CCUs

Vaddio, the leading manufacturer and OEM distributor of specialty PTZ cameras and high-end camera control systems, partnered with Graybow Communications Group of Golden Valley, Minn. to develop the ideal high-definition audiovisual solution for Zion Lutheran Church of Albert Lea, Minn.

Prior to the renovation, Zion was using a portable video projection system that included a small video projector, contained in a roll-out cart, and a screen mounted on a hinge bracket that would expand into the Sanctuary when necessary. "They wanted to be more contemporary and offer an alternative way to capture church services, weddings, concerts and other social events," explained Senior Design Engineer on the project, Michael Benedetti.

Benedetti chose a combination robotic pan, tilt and zoom (PTZ) camera system, with an additional "remote-roving" high-definition camcorder for video capture in the Sanctuary. The HD camera system design includes Vaddio’s ProductionVIEW HD seamless switcher/controller, DV Capture, PreVIEW HD triple 5.0 rack mounted monitors, two WallVIEW HD-18 CCUs and a Canon XH-A1 camcorder. "We looked at a lot of PTZ cameras out there. Because our client wanted the ability to use the cameras for both IMAG and recording purposes, we based our decision on something that would suit these client expectations best," explained Benedetti. "The two WallVIEW HD-18 CCU cameras fit the bill. The18X zoom features, performance in low light areas, and the reasonable price point made Vaddio a logical choice."

The two WallVIEW HD-18 CCU camera systems are mounted at structural beam locations in the center of both the right and left sidewalls. Vaddio’s ClearVIEW HD-18 high definition PTZ cameras come equipped with a 1/3?, 1.3 megapixel CCD imaging sensor, a glass multi-element wide dynamic zoom lens (18x optical), tally light and 1.8-lux rating. For total robotic control the cameras are paired with the WallVIEW CCU systems, featuring cutting edge High Speed Differential Signaling (HSDS™) technology and fingertip control of iris, gain, color, pedestal, gamma, chroma, knee and detail.

"The third camera is a Canon XH-A1 camcorder," adds Benedetti. "The Canon integrates into the ProductionVIEW HD switcher giving us all the flexibility of a third static camera, a remote operator controlled camera or the ability to operate as a standalone DV camcorder for remote events."

The Canon XH-A1 camcorder can be positioned at up to five different locations throughout the church, patchable via installed wall interfaces in the Sanctuary. Locations include the front-left, front-right, alter, balcony and back control area. The camcorder is also set up to function externally as a remote solution. Controlling each camera, in the rear of the Sanctuary, is Vaddio’s ProductionVIEW HD, a multi-camera switcher/mixer and control system. ProductionVIEW HD integrates PTZ camera control and multi-format HD/SD live switching with real-time graphics and effects. "The switcher allows for glitch-free smooth transition between the various video input sources," explained Benedetti. "The transitions include a wide variety of different programmable effects including wipes, fades, cuts and dissolves."

"We chose Vaddio because of the features they offer as well as the price point. Can’t be beat."