VHKolb

Q: How can a run more than one camera off of one mac?

Hi,

 

I work for a junior college and we're trying to figure out how to run multiple cameras through a single mac. Our goal is to be able to record live video from multiple cameras so that we can create videos and shows live (kind of like the news). We are also looking for a program that works similar to a video switch board so that we can incorporate computer graphics real-time and switch between the different cameras instead of doing it all in post production.

 

Does anyone think that they can help?

iMac, OS X Mountain Lion (10.8.5)

Posted on Nov 11, 2013 4:28 PM

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Q: How can a run more than one camera off of one mac?

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  • by EZ Jim,

    EZ Jim EZ Jim Nov 12, 2013 7:11 AM in response to VHKolb
    Level 7 (22,547 points)
    Nov 12, 2013 7:11 AM in response to VHKolb

    Without adding anything, you can connect multiple cameras.  However, you can use only one at a time, selecting among connected cameras in various apps that use your camera(s).  For more discussion on this, see this recent thread.

     

    To actually view and / or mix multiple cameras simultaneously on one Mac, you will need some kind of video monitor or mixer.  Both hardware and software possibilities are available, but, if they perform the functions you need, the software varieties will be less costly.  Provided that your Macs have sufficient processor power, all you need do is add software that can deliever your specific needs.  Video can be demanding on your Macs' capability, so be sure to check anything you add for compatibility with your system, including numbers of video sources, etc.

     

    Check the web info and FAQs of the following offerings to see if any does the specific kinds of things that you want:

     

     • EvoCam 4

     

     • b-l-a-c-k-o-p™ - CamCamX | Video Mixer ...

     

     • Bensoftware – SecuritySpy – Multi-camera video ... for the Mac

     

    For more power and flexibiltiy you can investigate Mac compatible video mixer hardware like that available from Avid and others.

     

    If you use Firewire video sources, such as some camcorders or stand-alone cameras, you can ask your retailer or search the web for "Mac compatible firewire video mixer" (without the quotation marks.)  Several are available, including professional models that will give you all the capability you need.

     


     

     

     

     

    Message was edited by: EZ Jim

     

     

    Mac OSX 10.9