OPERATION

The CamDirector® Teacher Tracker is designed to work with two Avonic CM70* cameras: an overview camera and a follow camera. The software uses the follow camera to track the teacher using Pan, Tilt, and Zoom functionalities, while the overview camera provides a stationary view of the entire stage. The system operates locally on the CD500 and only requires an internet connection for updates.

This chapter provides guidance on using the CamDirector® Teacher Tracker. The term "teacher" will be used to refer to the speaker throughout this chapter. For additional information, refer to the AV-CM70 series manual and the Basic CamDirector tips on our website.

Note: The CamDirector® only works with two identical camera models (two CM70-IP, CM70-NDI, CM71, or CM73 cameras). It will not function properly with two different models due to variations in field of view.

The functionality visible in the Web Interface depends on the licenses activated on your CD500. You can view the licenses on the Settings > Status page or on the Avonic website. Ensure you have reviewed the Quick Guide CD500 before proceeding, as we assume the CD500 and the two CM70-series cameras are already installed.


First-Time Setup

Configure the CD500:

  1. Open a browser and enter the default IP address: 192.168.5.50.
  2. Log in with the following credentials:
    Username: admin
    Password: admin
  3. Navigate to Settings > Network and configure the network settings.
  4. Go to Teacher Tracker > Configurations and add the IP addresses of both cameras.
  5. Verify the Teacher Tracker License is activated under Licenses. If not, contact Avonic.
  6. Click Save and reboot the system. Once rebooted, the IP address will appear on the HDMI-connected screen. Log in again with the new IP address if applicable.
  7. Navigate to Settings > Status and check if a new firmware version is available. If so, follow the on-screen instructions.

Calibration

For optimal performance, the two cameras must be calibrated with the CamDirector® Teacher Tracker.

  1. Navigate to Teacher Tracker > Calibration and follow the on-screen instructions.

  2. Ensure the cameras are turned on before starting the calibration process.

  3. It’s advisable to have two people for calibration: one in front of the camera (e.g., teacher) and one behind the computer guiding the person.

    Note: Any changes to the camera's position, Pan, Tilt, Zoom, or lighting conditions require re-calibration.

  4. Click Start Configuration:

    • Define the stage by setting the Pan, Tilt, and Zoom levels of the overview camera so the teacher can be seen in all positions.
    • Ensure only one person is in front of the camera for calibration.
  5. Click Start Calibration. The system will search for calibration points, indicated by a blinking green camera light. Move the person across the room or stage, covering all areas, until all 20 calibration points are found.

  6. If calibration is successful, the camera lights will turn solid green.

  7. After calibration, the Teacher Tracker toggle button will be automatically set to ON, and the software will be ready to follow the teacher.

Note: You cannot control the PTZ functionality or see video output via IP when the Teacher Tracker is ON.


Tally Light Status

Light StatusMeaning
Solid RedCannot find calibration point
4 Blinks RedCalibration in progress
Blinking GreenCalibration point found
Solid GreenCalibration successful

Teacher Tracker: Exclusion Zones

The Exclusion Zones (formerly "Audience") page allows you to configure zones in the overview camera where detection should be excluded. For example, you can exclude students sitting in the audience or people appearing on a presentation screen behind the teacher. Use the two blue sliders to define exclusion zones from the top or bottom of the view.


Teacher Tracker: Tracking Configuration

The tracking configuration defines the parameters for the AI to operate the camera, including:

  • Zoom level to the presenter
  • Alignment height (entire body or upper body)

The tracking configuration is linked to exclusion zones. For instance, if a large exclusion zone covers the presenter’s legs, but the tracking configuration is set to a low height, it might cause the system to switch to overview mode.


Settings Overview

Settings > Status

The Status page displays:

  • Network addresses (IP, Netmask, Gateway, MAC Address)
  • Camera addresses (Overview and Follow Camera)
  • Factory reset button
  • License details
  • Software update button (re-calibration is unnecessary after updating).

An internet connection is required for updates, but the system can go offline afterward.

Settings > Network

Configure the cameras' IP addresses and the network settings here.

  1. Cameras
    Enter the IP addresses for both CM70 cameras. If incorrect, the Teacher Tracker will not function properly.
  2. Network Settings
    • System IP: IP address of the CD500
    • Netmask: Netmask address
    • Gateway: Gateway address

Save and reboot the system for changes to take effect.

Settings > Account

Change account settings like username and password.


Customer Support

  1. Navigate to Customer Support in the blue sidebar.
  2. Enable the VPN feature (requires an active internet connection). The VPN will automatically disable after one month.
  3. Download log files as needed.
  4. Use the Image Logger to download image logs. These files can be large (up to 2GB). Specify a date and time range for automatic downloads.

For further assistance, please refer to our website for additional resources and firmware updates.