Specifications

Universal RCP – Operation Manual
V3.1
Page 2
22/12/11
General Description
The Camera Corps Universal RCP provides comprehensive control of many different makes and models
of video camera.
Up to six cameras of different makes and models can be controlled from a single panel. The data output
can be distributed on a single audio cable over long distances to the camera locations providing a very
versatile system of control.
The control functions are not limited by any particular camera type. The menus are automatically adjusted
for different camera models, to provide virtually all of the remote control facilities provided by any given
manufacturer, including on screen displays for less frequently used functions.
Up to two 3D rigs (four cameras) may be controlled utilising a special mode of operation. In this mode
individual cameras may be controlled normally on their channel select buttons. However, a third channel
button can control both cameras together maintaining any control value offsets between the two cameras.
This is possible for all available camera makes and models on the control panel.
The RCP can be fully integrated into Camera Corps other remote operation equipment and is designed to
work either standalone, or in conjunction with the PTZF Joystick controllers also available from Camera
Corps.
In fact, the RCP has the ability to adjust the pan, tilt, zoom and focus of cameras mounted on remote
heads to provide preset shots without the need for a remote joystick panel.
External inputs are provided to allow cue/tally information for all six channels to be input to the system.
Provision is also made for remote channel selection, and remote monitor switching if required.
From software version 2.0 onwards the RCP can be controlled from the Camera Corps multi-camera
keypad providing control for up to 96 cameras. (Not it 3D modes though).
Data System Description
Unlike most serial data control systems, which use high-speed digital signals, the Camera Corps system
uses modems to convert the digital data into audio style tone signals before transmission. This has many
advantages, which include virtually no limit on distance, as well as easy transmission over simple RF links
and telephone lines. By using balanced transformer coupling at both transmission and receiving points,
earth loops and hum problems are virtually eliminated.
Standard audio cables or CAT5 data cable can be used for data transmission. The data is simply
‘paralleled’ using XLR3 splitters for transmission to multiple cameras/heads.
The transmission data rate can be set on all sending devices to 1200, 2400 or 4800 baud. 2400 baud is
normally used, with 1200 being necessary for some RF and telephone systems, or very long cable runs.
All receiving devices will auto detect the incoming baud rate after receiving a few initial bytes of data.
Data from the RCP is sent to the remote head operator’s position where it is mixed with data from the
Pan, Tilt, Zoom and Focus controller. From here the data is split and sent to the remote head/camera
locations where it is decoded by Interface Boxes into analogue signals for the P&T head, and the correct
data format required by particular camera makes/models.
The interface boxes have a channel selector switch that enables them to detect and decode only the data
intended for that particular channel.