Get ready! Event Master is gearing up for post-covid events

Operators, we have some updates to be excited about! The Event Master systems are gearing up for a virtual and hybrid future. In preparation of live events making a strong comeback this year, the new Event Master 8.2 software release brings some user-requested and powerful new features to the line. Read on to find out what cool stuff upgrading will bring to you.

1. Tally

You can now have Tally indicators on the Multiviewer windows and GUI page, as well as send external Tally states as UDP packages on the network using the TSL3.1 protocol. That way, operators, producers and presenters are constantly aware of which source is “on air”, and which is going live next.

These Tally features are available on E2 and S3 chassis exclusively with the 4K Quad HDMI 2.0 output card as a Multiviewer (MVR2). The HDMI 2.0 Quad output card not only brings 4K on a single cable, but also adds a ton of Multi-viewer features. It’s HDCP 2.2 compliant and, when used as a Multiviewer, it offers two modes of operation: 4 discrete HD outputs or one 4K output with 3 copies. Up to four copies of each resource can be used, and each resource window can be sized at 50% or 100% of the original. This gives different stakeholders behind the scenes the option to scale the resources according to their own viewing needs.

More details in this EM8.2 overview video.

2. Input and Native Background backups

Another long-awaited feature is the ability to define input and native background backups in the Programming page. The feature increases the reliability of the system by allowing you to select up to three backup inputs, which can be a different input or a still. The only prerequisite being that the backup must have the same size and connector capacity as the original input.

Users can switch from the main input to a backup input instantly from the toolset, or with dedicated buttons on the EC controllers. During preset recalls and live source selection, the main input is automatically replaced with the backup until the user restores the main input.

The default mode is set to manual, but the feature can also be used in Auto mode. This means that if your current input loses sync, the Event Master will switch it automatically to the first assigned backup that has a valid sync. It’s that extra safety net to guarantee worry-free operation during crucial live shows.

And to avoid inputs repeatedly coming back on and failing again due to shaky connections, the system won’t switch back to the original input until you decide that the connection is stable, ensuring clean results and smooth visuals for the audience.

Check this video for a quick how-to.

3. Multi Operator

There’s now the possibility to have multiple operators working independently, in different rooms, on different workflows with one E2 system, without any conflicts. The Multi Operator upgrade allows for three ‘normal operators’ and one ‘super operator’ to control an Event Master System.

Inputs, Cues, User Keys, MVR and other features are global to all operators, but each ‘normal operator’ can be given access to a subset of destinations and preset ranges. That way, they’re not interfering with each other’s presets or affecting outputs or screens they’re not supposed to be controlling.  Additionally, we have added a new assign bus on the controllers for switching live on program, similar to how you would switch a production switcher.

Get a preview of what that looks like in the following video.

Conclusion

We can’t wait for you to get your hands on these new features during your next live events. And, as always, you’re welcome to let us know what you think or reach out with questions at E2@barco.com.