I wanted a "TV STUDIO" inside a CASE I could take on a plane

Fit the capabilities of what you see below into a mobile unit that could work within seconds

IT WAS HARDER THAN YOU THINK

I wanted 16 Audio inputs, 16 Cameras with Audio inputs, 2 Automatic Video Players, 4 Monitors, 2 TV Switchers, 8 Video Converters, 2 Networks, COOLING, A Power (ON) Controler, Power Transformers, 3 Data Drives, Radio Mic Inputs, All the cables to connect all this and the means to connect everything else quickly. All that, plus a built-in M1 Apple Mac Mini and keyboard. Also a StreamDeck. Then I needed Apple TV for input. Followed by an independent local WiFi. EASY? Maybe not. 

Note: none of this equipment is designed to be in a box due to the very high heat they produce.

During the making of this TV studio  several TV Switchers by Blackmagic came out (as shown above).

The ATEM SDI Extreme ISO is a powerful live production switcher designed for professional broadcasting and streaming. It features multiple SDI inputs and outputs, allowing for high-quality video routing and real-time switching between sources. The Extreme ISO model includes advanced capabilities like recording all inputs as separate ISO files, making it easier to edit and manage post-production workflows. With a user-friendly interface, built-in multi-view monitoring, and comprehensive audio mixing options, it’s a versatile choice for any live event or studio setup.

For more information, visit the Blackmagic Design website.

ATEM HDMI Extreme

The ATEM HDMI Extreme is a robust live production switcher that supports up to 8 HDMI inputs for seamless video switching during live broadcasts and events. This model provides real-time audio mixing, multi-view monitoring, and allows for high-quality video outputs. It features built-in recording capabilities and integrates easily with various devices, making it ideal for professional streaming setups. Its intuitive design caters to both beginners and experienced operators, ensuring flexibility and efficiency in live production environments.

For more information, visit the Blackmagic Design website.

The image above shows the ATEM interface software used across all Blackmagic ATEM Switches, from high-end TV studios to the more compact ATEM Mini series used in this project. I’m using two switches—one for HDMI inputs and one for SDI inputs—providing 16 total TV inputs. These inputs can include computers, video players, cameras, or audio sources, making it a versatile setup for managing multiple media sources.

The switches are compatible with a wide range of cameras from any manufacturer, as long as they feature HDMI or SDI outputs. When using a Blackmagic camera, the full functionality of the software becomes available, enhancing the switch’s capabilities. I utilize Blackmagic 4K cameras, as shown below.

Blackmagic 4K Camera

The Blackmagic 4K Camera is a high-performance digital cinema camera designed for professional filmmakers and content creators. It captures stunning 4K resolution video with exceptional detail and color accuracy. The camera features a wide dynamic range, allowing for impressive low-light performance, and offers various recording formats, including ProRes and RAW. Its compact design, combined with advanced connectivity options, makes it ideal for versatile shooting environments, from studio setups to on-location filming.

For further details, visit the Blackmagic Design website.

One of the video playback devices is the HyperDeck Shuttle HD, as shown. This device is chosen for its compact size and its ability to record and playback video quickly, automatically transitioning to the next video when a cut is made. Additionally, the Shuttle can be used as a teleprompter system.

The HyperDeck Shuttle HD is a versatile video playback device renowned for its compact design and robust functionality. It allows for fast recording and playback of video, automatically transitioning between clips during cuts, which is ideal for live productions. Additionally, it can serve as a teleprompter system, enhancing its utility in various settings. The Shuttle supports a range of video formats and offers professional-grade quality, making it a popular choice among content creators and broadcasters alike.

For more detailed specifications, visit the Blackmagic Design website.

The second more durable Video Player is the HyperDeck Studio HD Plus shown below.

The HyperDeck Studio HD is a professional-grade video recorder that excels in high-quality video capture and playback. It supports a wide range of video formats and resolutions, making it ideal for live broadcasting, post-production, and content creation. With its intuitive interface, the Studio HD allows for seamless integration into existing workflows, offering features such as dual SSD slots for continuous recording and instant playback. It is a reliable solution for professionals looking for versatility and performance in their video production setup.

For more details, visit the Blackmagic Design website.

Several broadcast converters were utilized to transmit video feeds to each ATEM system, facilitating signal conversion from HDMI to SDI and vice versa. This setup ensures high-quality video transmission between devices, maintaining signal integrity throughout the broadcast process. The converters play a crucial role in enabling compatibility between different video formats, allowing for seamless integration within complex broadcasting environments. This flexibility enhances workflow efficiency, making it easier to manage multiple video sources and outputs across the production setup.

The Blackmagic Micro Converter is a compact device that enables seamless connectivity between HDMI and SDI signals. The HDMI to SDI model converts HDMI signals to SDI, allowing HDMI sources to interface with SDI workflows, while the SDI to HDMI model does the reverse. Additionally, Blackmagic offers a model that supports bi-directional conversion, facilitating flexible connectivity in various setups. These converters are perfect for professional video applications, maintaining high-quality signal integrity and compatibility with a range of equipment.

For more detailed specifications, you can visit Blackmagic’s website.

The Blackmagic ATEM Control Software - Audio Screen

This TV studio, which needed to be built within a compact case, defies the odds by housing equipment that was once considered too hot and complex to coexist in such a small space. Powered by Blackmagic’s ATEM Mini Extreme ISO and ATEM SDI Extreme ISO, alongside a HyperDeck Studio HD Plus, HyperDeck Shuttle HD, and a Studio Capture Audio system, this setup seamlessly handles 16 live video feeds and 16 audio inputs.

To maintain peak performance, the studio is cooled by 30 fans, ensuring optimal temperature regulation for high-demand components like the Mac Mini, three Samsung T7 Disks, and four 4K monitors. It features a Stream Deck for easy control, an Apple TV, and two network routers, all integrated into a sleek, portable design.

The system delivers flawless live broadcasting to any media platform, including YouTube, making it an industry game-changer in portability, functionality, and innovation.

Before building the TV Studio, I carefully planned out the necessary equipment and their connections. The image above shows my final layout of all the gear and cables, ensuring everything was configured to work seamlessly together.

Below: Studio Capture's Software Interface

Above. The Studio Capture Audio system by Blackmagic is designed for high-quality audio capture and production in live and recorded environments. It features multiple audio inputs and outputs, allowing for seamless integration with various microphones and audio devices. The system provides low-latency performance, making it ideal for real-time applications like live streaming and broadcasting. Additionally, its user-friendly interface ensures easy operation, catering to both professionals and newcomers in audio production. The system is versatile enough to handle different audio formats and offers robust support for studio and field recording setups.

For more detailed specifications, you can visit Blackmagic Design’s official page.

Below: The Scanner, Printer and Case

The case was scanned using a digital scanner and scaled to real size in Maya. I measured each component, creating a 3D model, and carefully arranged the items to account for air vents, cables, and fans. After modeling the structure to secure everything in place, I split the model into five pieces for 3D printing due to its size, ensuring each joint met minimal size requirements. The image above shows the 3D scan with the final model positioned. Once everything was set, it was ready for printing.

The image above showcases the completed TV Studio setup from underneath, highlighting the 3D-printed frame, air ducts with internal fans, HDMI and SDI cables, and all the essential equipment, including the power controller. This is some of the tidiest wiring you’ll see in a DIY project, though achieving it was no easy feat. It took months of adjustments, with numerous iterations before everything was finally in place.

Above is one of two networks and the Video Converters by Blackmagic.

Early days. The case with only the Power Controler, 1st Network Router and the Video Converters from Blackmagic.

This is the 3D-printed mount that holds the Studio Capture Audio system. I removed the original case to create a new one with built-in cooling ducts for improved airflow.

The image above shows the Maya model in the 3D printing software. All five parts were printed simultaneously, strategically angled to maximize density and ensure high-quality output.

The image above shows additional 3D-printed holders. The larger piece is designed to secure the Power Controller, while the smaller parts are meant to hold the SSD drives.

The image below shows all the 3D-printed parts assembled, with the video converters placed in their slots. The Power Controller, Radio Mic Box, and HyperDeck Studio HD Plus are also positioned in their designated spots.

Below, the image on the right shows the air duct from the fan to the HyperDeck Studio HD Plus. Each piece of equipment has its own intake and exhaust duct, with one fan pushing air in and another fan pulling air out, ensuring efficient airflow through each device.

Below are the 3D-printed holders designed to mount the Apple TV box and the power unit for the four monitors placed inside the case lid.

I even made 3D labels in Maya for the monitors. ATEM - SDI and ATEM - HDMI as shown above.

I used 30 Noctua’s 5V fans, which are renowned for their exceptional performance and low noise levels. Designed for silent operation, these fans provide reliable airflow while maintaining high efficiency, making them ideal for compact and noise-sensitive applications. With features like advanced aerodynamic design and high-quality materials, Noctua 5V fans ensure durability and longevity. They are particularly suitable for scenarios requiring precise cooling solutions, such as in small form-factor PCs, NAS devices, and audio equipment. Their versatility and reliability have made them a favourite among enthusiasts and professionals alike. 

For more information, visit the Noctua website.