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Header image for article NAB 2019: Teradek Bolt 4K, Teradek RT, and More

NAB 2019: Teradek Bolt 4K, Teradek RT, and More

I spent some time at the Teradek booth with Greg Smokler learning all about the next generation of wireless systems, as well as a new wireless focus control ecosystem. This year, Teradek focused heavily on usability, range, and Bluetooth capabilities.

The just-announced Teradek Bolt 4K is part of the latest generation of wireless video technology and delivers uncompressed 2160p60 HDR video transmission with zero delay. It also features eight times better signal performance and 50% more range than previous systems, with an even stronger emphasis on delivering higher quality detail and color reproduction with their patented RF technology.

Each Teradek Bolt 4K Transmitter can be paired with up to six Teradek receivers, which is 50% more than traditional Teradek systems. In addition, unlike previous systems, all Bolt 4K systems are compatible with one another even if they’re from different model ranges. This means you can mix and match on set. The unit's size is similar to that of a battery plate, so Teradek has an optional Gold or V-mount battery plate with pass through power so you can mount it on the back of your camera.

Another significant addition to this system is Bluetooth. With a free application, the Bolt App, you can control and monitor your system on your iOS device. This app features the ability to set channels, quickly pair receivers, check and update firmware, and control multiple devices. In addition, the maintenance and troubleshooting aspect of the app will be extremely helpful on set, as you can analyze the wireless spectrum of your environment, see the signal to noise ratio, and view the results of the transmission when you're arranging the receivers and antennas, for example.

The Teradek Bolt 4K also features OLED displays on both the TX and RX, the ability to load LUTs, dual 12D-SDI and HDMI 2.0 inputs, and 12 12G-SDI outputs and one HDMI 2.0 output. Watch the video above to learn even more. 

The Teradek RT is a new software and hardware ecosystem for wireless lens control. This system includes the Control 3, Motor X, and MDR X. 

The Control 3 is the new three axis hand unit featuring Bluetooth radio and 2.4GHz radio. In addition, you can create lens maps with the RT that translate to a pre-marked ring. The unit integrates with Teradek receivers and Small HD monitors, so you can make a very sleek all-in-one hand unit. By plugging the hand unit into the back of any SmallHD monitor, you get an overlay of all lens information, including iris, focal length, and focus, on the monitor with zero delay. The single-axis lens controller also has lens mapping capabilities.

The Motor X is a brand new compact motor with extra horsepower for torque and fast response. The LED on the motor allows the user to select focus, iris, or zoom. The motors can be daisy chained so you have a sleek camera configuration.

The MDR X is an incredibly small motor driver, with three motor ports, two serial input ports, and one camera control port. It also has Bluetooth and lens control radio built in so you can control it with an app. This is a great way to quickly test a motor, complete and store lens mapping, and even share information across Bluetooth to multiple devices. 

Check the video above to see them in action and for more details.

Ian McCausland
Technology Specialist, AbelCine LA

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