The Digital Insider | Month: December 2024

Revitalizing eSports Education: How the University of Staffordshire Built a State-of-the-Art eSports Broadcasting Course with Panasonic

In this article from Panasonic Connect, the University of Staffordshire’s groundbreaking efforts to transform its eSports broadcasting course with cutting-edge technology and professional-grade facilities take center stage. Recognized as a pioneer in eSports education, the university partnered with Panasonic and Digital Garage for a £2.7 million expansion at its Stoke-on-Trent campus. This initiative, part of the university’s mission to remain at the forefront of eSports education, focused on equipping students with practical skills and advanced tools to thrive in the rapidly growing eSports broadcasting industry.

The Challenge: Keeping Ahead in a Competitive eSports Education Landscape

The University of Staffordshire was the first UK institution to launch an eSports degree in 2018, but increasing competition from other universities required the program to evolve. To maintain its edge, the university expanded its curriculum and facilities, aiming to deliver a comprehensive, industry-ready course for the next generation of sportscasters. At the heart of this expansion was the construction of a 61-seat eSports arena and an advanced broadcasting hub, complete with dual gallery spaces capable of supporting independent or synchronized operations for large-scale events.

Cutting-Edge Technology for a Competitive Advantage

The cornerstone of the project was Panasonic’s KAIROS live production platform, a revolutionary tool designed for high-quality video production. With its advanced CPU/GPU architecture and support for SMPTE ST 2110 IP-transmission standards, KAIROS offered ultra-low latency and unparalleled flexibility for eSports production. Complementing this technology, the arena was equipped with Panasonic AW-UE100 4K PTZ cameras and AK-HC3900 HDR studio cameras. These industry-standard tools provided students with hands-on experience in a professional broadcasting environment, bridging the gap between academic training and real-world application.

Strategic Collaboration with Digital Garage

Digital Garage, a trusted partner of the University of Staffordshire, played a crucial role in bringing this vision to life. From project design and construction to equipment installation, Digital Garage ensured the new facilities met industry standards and maximized functionality. Their expertise was key in addressing challenges such as integrating professional broadcasting systems into the university’s infrastructure and optimizing the layout for accessibility and usability.

Live testing of the KAIROS platform at Digital Garage’s demo facility minimized installation delays and ensured a seamless rollout. Additionally, Panasonic and Digital Garage conducted extensive training sessions for the university’s IT and academic staff, empowering them to manage and maintain the advanced systems with confidence.

Bridging the Gap Between Academia and Industry

The fully operational eSports arena and broadcasting course launched in Spring 2024, marking a new era for the University of Staffordshire. By integrating cutting-edge facilities, innovative technology, and a forward-thinking curriculum, the university positions its graduates for success in the competitive eSports broadcasting industry. This collaboration with Panasonic and Digital Garage not only enhances the university’s reputation as a leader in eSports education but also establishes it as a hub for innovation and excellence in the field.

Why the University of Staffordshire’s eSports Course Stands Out

By embracing Panasonic’s state-of-the-art technology and leveraging Digital Garage’s expertise, the University of Staffordshire delivers an unparalleled educational experience. Graduates leave the program equipped with industry-ready skills, a deep understanding of advanced broadcasting tools, and the confidence to excel in eSports production roles.

This case study highlights the importance of innovation in eSports education and demonstrates how institutions can stay ahead in a competitive market. The University of Staffordshire sets a benchmark for eSports broadcasting programs worldwide, showing how strategic partnerships and cutting-edge technology can create a transformative learning experience.

Read the full Case Study from Panasonic Connect HERE

Learn more about Panasonic Connect KAIROS HERE

Learn more about Panasonic Connect below:

JVC Professional Streaming Solutions Enhance Ohio Athletic Center and Board of Education

Maple Heights High School Expands Streaming Capabilities with JVC CONNECTED CAM™ PTZ Cameras and IP Switchers
Maple Heights High School in Maple Heights, Ohio, has transformed its athletic center and Board of Education’s production platforms with a complete JVC Professional Video streaming workflow. The collaboration with NPI Audio Visual Solutions has modernized their capabilities, enabling high-quality live streaming and enhanced audience engagement.

Upgrading Streaming Infrastructure for the Maple Heights Board of Education
The Maple Heights Board of Education aimed to provide live streaming for remote attendees and a robust archive of recorded meetings accessible through their website. With the expertise of Sam Avellone, Director of Sales at NPI Audio Visual Solutions, the following JVC solutions were implemented:

2 KY-PZ200N CONNECTED CAM™ PTZ Cameras (NDI®|HX enabled)
RM-LP350G Desktop Control Surface
RM-LP5G PTZ Camera Controller
KM-IPS84 vMix Switcher

These tools deliver seamless live streaming and recording capabilities, offering flexibility and professional-quality visuals. The KY-PZ200N PTZ cameras provide superior image quality, intuitive plug-and-play features, and multiple preset options, ensuring dynamic and professional meeting coverage.

“The optics are superior with JVC cameras. When you’re streaming, you’ve got to have a good quality image,” says Sam Avellone. “Customers now recognize the difference between a good and bad stream—superior video quality, high-quality audio, and engaging graphics make all the difference.”

JVC Solutions for the Athletic Center: Sports and Beyond
The Maple Heights athletic center also received a comprehensive AV system upgrade powered by JVC’s CONNECTED CAM™ IP streaming technology. The installation included:

KY-PZ200N PTZ Cameras for multi-purpose streaming (sports, assemblies, presentations)
KM-IP8S4 CONNECTED CAM™ vMix Studio Switcher for versatile live switching
RM-LP350G Desktop Control Surface
RM-LP100 Advanced Remote Camera Controller for enhanced camera control

The KM-IP8S4 vMix Studio Switcher supports up to eight NDI inputs at 1080 60P, offering SD-to-full-HD switching with multiple output options, including SDI, HDMI, and Ethernet. This integration also connects to the athletic center’s new video boards and control console, enabling high-quality streaming for sports events and live audiences.

“The vMix switcher’s built-in graphics and cost efficiency make it a no-brainer,” adds Avellone. “Combining JVC’s tools with their user-friendly interfaces makes it easy to deliver professional results.”

Benefits of JVC Professional Video Workflow
The integration of JVC Professional Video’s tools has empowered Maple Heights High School to elevate its streaming capabilities for both education and sports audiences. Key benefits include:

Superior Image Quality: Ensuring streams meet professional standards.
User-Friendly Operation: Simplifying live streaming and recording for staff.
Versatility: Supporting various events, from sports to assemblies and public meetings.
Cost-Effectiveness: High-quality solutions tailored to education and sports environments.

Why Choose JVC for Streaming Solutions?
JVC Professional Video stands out with its high-performance CONNECTED CAM™ PTZ cameras, intuitive controls, and robust switching solutions. The Maple Heights High School project highlights JVC’s ability to deliver reliable and scalable streaming infrastructure for diverse applications, including education and sports production.

Read the full Press Release from JVC HERE

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Videoguys’ Top Products of 2024

As 2024 unfolds, the video production world is buzzing with innovations that redefine how creators, professionals, and broadcasters approach their craft. From cutting-edge cameras to cloud-based management systems, here are the top products of 2024 that are setting new standards for creativity, efficiency, and quality.

NOTE: This list of our top products is not presented in any order. These items were all introduced in 2024 and all impressed us in the ways we describe below

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BirdDog X Series: The Future of NDI HX Cameras

The BirdDog X Series represents a new era in PTZ cameras, boasting advanced NDI HX technology for high-quality, low-latency video over IP networks. The series includes the X1, X1 Ultra, X4 Ultra, and X5 Ultra, offering a camera for every production scenario. The X1 is compact and portable, the X4 Ultra is tailored for mid-tier projects, and the X5 Ultra is perfect for cinematic workflows. With enhanced low-light performance and expanded dynamic range, the X Series cameras are versatile tools for live streaming, remote production, and studio environments.

Vizrt TriCaster Mini S: Live Production on Your Own Workstation

Vizrt’s TriCaster Mini S takes live production to a new level by allowing users to run its powerful software on their certified workstations. This flexibility enables creators to utilize familiar hardware while accessing professional-grade features like virtual sets, multi-camera switching, and advanced graphics. The software retains all the functionality of the hardware version, making it a cost-effective solution for producers who demand high-quality performance without being tied to specific hardware.

Canon CR-N100 and RC-IP1000: Completing the PTZ Lineup

Canon’s PTZ lineup now includes the CR-N100, a budget-friendly entry-level camera, and the RC-IP1000, a flagship controller offering precise and intuitive camera operation. The CR-N100 is perfect for educational institutions, houses of worship, and small businesses, delivering sharp HD video at an accessible price point. When paired with the RC-IP1000, users can seamlessly manage complex multi-camera setups, making it a robust and versatile solution for creators at every level.

Atomos Ninja Phone: Turn Your iPhone into an HDR Monitor

The Atomos Ninja Phone transforms your iPhone into a professional-grade HDR monitor, bridging the gap between mobile filmmaking and professional production. Compact and powerful, this tool offers real-time HDR monitoring and recording, perfect for on-the-go creators. With support for professional codecs and precise color calibration, it elevates smartphone videography to cinematic heights while maintaining portability and ease of use.

SanDisk Professional G-RAID Project 2: RAID-0 Performance Redefined

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YoloLiv YoloDeck Bundles with YoloBox Ultra

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15+ Business & Corporate Presentation Templates for Premiere Pro – Speckyboy

Clear and concise presentations are an essential part of the business world. They leave an impression on stakeholders. That’s a great reason to go the extra mile when putting them together.

So, how do you make your presentations memorable? Adding video to the mix is one way to get a viewer’s attention. It keeps people engaged while helping to explain concepts and ideas. Besides, a video is endlessly more interesting than an old static PowerPoint file.

Sure, there could be a learning curve if starting from scratch. But you don’t have to be a video pro to create a compelling presentation.

Premier Pro templates are there to simplify the process. They include all the layouts and effects you’ll need to make something special. Customize them with your content, tweak a few settings (or not), and you’re all set.

With that in mind, check out our collection of business and corporate presentation templates. You’re sure to find the perfect fit for your project.

A beautiful black-and-white color scheme gives this presentation template a minimalist vibe. It’s simple and clean, with bold typography and room for custom graphics. This one is a good all-purpose choice to keep on hand.

Here’s a presentation template with stunning visual effects to impress viewers. The animations are smooth, and the look is ultra-modern. It’s perfect for corporate use, as the subtle effects won’t distract from your content.

You’ll find plenty to like about this fast-paced presentation template. It features professional-level effects and is easy to customize. The video clocks in at just over a minute, making it a good fit for use as an intro.

This slick video is colorful and full of customization opportunities. Add video clips, photos, and text to share your message. It will look like you spent hours meticulously crafting your presentation – even if you know better.

Show prospective clients who you are using this stunning video template. There’s room for company details, past projects, and contact information. The modern aesthetic is a fit for just about any industry.

This template features excellent use of color and is easy to read. You’ll also notice beautiful transitions and a focus on your custom content. It’s a short and sweet way to introduce yourself to the world.

Tell your story through time by using this timeline motion graphic template. Mark key dates in history and enhance them with custom photos. This one will come in handy time and again.

There’s something to be said for simplicity in video presentations. This Premiere Pro template is a prime example. It’s elegant and modern without overwhelming viewers with effects. And there’s room for all your custom text.

This colorful template uses professional animations and geometric shapes to create a compelling video. Use it to share your team’s bios and experience. It’s perfect for use as a marketing tool.

Video presentations aren’t just for the conference room. You can also share them on social media, like these Instagram story templates. They’re designed for viewing on mobile screens to help you stand out on a crowded platform.

Showcase your achievements with this impressive Premiere Pro timeline template. Edit the 12 included scenes with your images and important dates. Every aspect can be customized – including the colors and effects.

Make your point in style with this short video presentation template. But don’t let the one-minute length fool you – there’s room for media and text. Its sophisticated look will get viewers’ attention.

Introduce your team with this artistic video template. It features a bookish theme that lends itself to displaying photos and biographies. Perfect for those who want to go beyond a traditional presentation.

Here’s a minimalistic template with a clean layout and beautiful typography. The formatting is attractive and prioritizes legibility. This template proves that you don’t need to go over the top with movement to be effective.

Share your ideas with viewers using this big and bold video template. The animations and transitions give the presentation a 3D look without being intrusive. It uses just enough color to make key points stand out.

Viewers will love the clever magazine layout of this Premier Pro presentation. Watch as pages “flip” to reveal new facts and figures. The aesthetic fits many industries, including tech, health care, and construction.

Count down your key points with this unique template. It’s great for showing prospective clients why they should work with you. The ultra-quick presentation (15 seconds) will help you stay on message.

You don’t have to settle for the old-fashioned way of sharing ideas. Video is the perfect medium to take your presentations up a few notches. And it’s easier than you think.

The templates above allow you to create a stunning presentation in mere minutes. So, what are you waiting for? Grab your favorites and leave an impactful impression on your audience.