NewTek TriCaster Advanced Edition Automation and Integration Guide - Manual (Page 15)

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Chapter 3 AUTOMATION AND INTEGRATION
This chapter briefly explains various aspects of automation and integration as an aid to
understanding the terms and technology discussed in this guide, and provides an overview of
how the different elements in these areas work together to offer flexible solutions to satisfy
your needs.
Let’s briefly consider distinctions between automation and integration as the terms are used in this guide.
This is a bit trickier than it might seem, but we want to make the effort as it will enable you to quickly
locate the type of information you want without too much tedious searching.
Section 3.1 I
NTRODUCTION TO
A
UTOMATION
To begin, let’s pay automation its due by giving a nod to its virtually endless benefits. Even in its simplest
forms, it can render repetitive operations virtually effortless and error-free at the same time.
The principle native engine of automation for NewTek live video production systems is the Macro system.
The very same commands exposed for your convenience in this system account for virtually every
operation executed by the system.
And, of course, macros can be combined endlessly, with full control over timing. Without much effort at all,
you will be able to customize your NewTek system to streamline your workflow and accommodate your
personal preferences.
Hint: Chapter 4 provides a thorough introduction to the Macro system.
Without belaboring the point, obviously automation can be extremely simple, or more complex. For
example, a simple macro might select a transition and perform an Auto to display a specific video source.
For convenience, you might assign this macro to a keyboard shortcut.
A slightly more complex macro might load a designated M/E preset, select it on the main Switcher’s Preview
row, load a custom transition, perform an Auto, and reconfigure the Audio Mixer to match the changes.
Again, a single keystroke, click, or button press can trigger all of this.
Hint: NewTek live production products support numerous and diverse input methods for triggering macros – see
Section 4.6.1 for details.
Let’s raise the automation bar even more. Rather than relying on manual input to trigger a sequence of
automated tasks, the whole process can be driven by external systems.
For example, an external software application serving as a master control process can execute all manner
of complex production operations according to predefined scheduling or other stimuli.