The new applications will launch with support for the CR-N700 pictured in black & white
Auckland, NEW ZEALAND– 31 January 2023: Canon New Zealand today expands the functionality of its PTZ cameras with two new apps available via its Add-On Applications System1, enabling users to add new functionalities for video production. Canon’s new Auto Tracking Application RA-AT001 and the Auto Loop Application RA-AL001 build on market demand to create a powerful standalone solution for video production without the need for external hardware2. These new paid applications are easy to configure, and coupled with Canon’s 4K camera technology, make the ideal solution for a broad range of scenarios, from higher education, corporate, live events, broadcast and houses of worship.
The new applications will launch with support for the CR-N700 camera, Canon’s flagship indoor 4K remote PTZ camera. Going forward, Canon will expand the line-up of applications provided by its Add-On Applications System, as well as its line-up of compatible remote camera models.
Auto Tracking
Powered by Canon’s advanced drive mechanism in its PTZ cameras, the new Auto Tracking application is able to track people without the intervention of a camera operator. This enables both single and multi-camera shoots to be filmed without the need for a camera operator, reducing the burden on AV staff or operators, whilst still capturing high-quality, professional content. Performing visual analysis in-camera, the application has exceptional tracking capabilities, from full-body, upper body, shoulders-up and other viewpoints, as well as speeds ranging from slow to brisk walking.
With a broad range of adjustment functions including Composition, Tracking Sensitivity and Priority Display Area, the CR-N700 can be customised for a multitude of different use cases, such as live production or corporate events, enabling professional looking content capture without the hassle. With the Composition feature, operators can set the optimal position to ensure the subject is always well framed, while the tracking sensitivity offers up to ten levels of adjustments, meaning it can be used for a variety of use cases.
Auto Loop Application
Canon today also announces its Auto Loop application, which enables the camera to follow a pre-programmed, automated pan/tilt/zoom movement without the need for an operator to manually change the shot. This is perfect for situations where operators must make simple repeated camera movements, such as live music events for instance where the shot would move from the drummer, to lead singer, to audience and then back again. This allows directors and operators to concentrate on switching and framing with other cameras, reducing workload, and saving labour and personnel.
Two movement pattern options, loop or back-and-forth, give greater flexibility to choose movements that suit each shooting environment. To ensure footage looks natural amongst a multi-camera set up, the application offers smooth adjustment of start-stop acceleration/deceleration to simulate manual camera movements. These features are easily programmable via a single screen, where operators can apply position and route settings and even access a preview, as well as control the speed of movement and duration of pause at each position.
Availability
The CR-N700 firmware update and the RA-AT001 and RA-AL001 applications will be available to download3 from April 2023 for use with the CR-N700. Downloads will be available here: CR-N700 Support - Firmware, Software & Manuals
1 Add-on Applications System requires firmware update for CR-N700 (to be provided free-of-charge in April 2023).
2 Once installed the applications will run standalone, however a computer is required for users to install the applications on the PTZ. Application settings require instructions from a computer web settings page.
3 The RA-AT001 and RA-AL001 are free to download for a 30-day free trial. After 30 days users need to purchase a license to continue to use the applications. Licenses will be sold through Canon authorised dealers.