Connections

The ATEM Constellation 8K offers 40 video inputs supporting up to Ultra HD or 10 inputs in 8K. For video outputs, it provides 28 Ultra HD outputs or 7 in 8K, along with 24 auxiliary outputs in Ultra HD or 6 in 8K. The supported SDI rates include 1.5G, 3G, 6G, and 12G, ensuring maximum flexibility. Audio connectivity includes two balanced 1/4-inch jack inputs and a 32 stereo channel BNC MADI input, complemented by two balanced 1/4-inch jack outputs and two 32 stereo channel BNC MADI outputs. The switcher supports Tri-Sync or Black Burst reference inputs, while every one of its 40 inputs features both re-sync and frame rate/format converters.

Video and Audio Capabilities

The switcher supports 40 SDI video inputs at 10-bit resolution across formats including 720p, 1080i, 1080p, 2160p, and 10 switchable inputs at 4320p for 8K workflows. For audio, it integrates 16 channels of embedded SDI audio on all outputs, plus dedicated talkback connections via 5-pin XLR and RJ45 support for third-party systems. Program outputs are fully flexible, with any of the 24 SDI outputs routable as program or preview.

Monitoring and Control

ATEM Constellation 8K supports four multi-views in Ultra HD or one in 8K, each with routable windows (64 in Ultra HD or 16 in 8K). Multi-view monitoring offers 4 x 16 layout options with selectable HD, Ultra HD, or 8K output standards. For control, users can operate the switcher through the front fascia emergency panel, software control, or optional hardware panels. Connections include Ethernet with 10/100/1000 BaseT support, RS-422 remote control, and a USB 2.0 interface. Tally signals can be integrated through Blackmagic’s GPI and Tally Interface via Ethernet.

Standards and Processing

The system supports a wide range of formats: 720p, 1080i, 1080p, Ultra HD (2160p), and 8K (4320p) at various frame rates. Compliance includes SMPTE 292M, 296M, 424M, 425M, 2081, and 2082 standards. Video sampling is 4:2:2, with 10-bit color precision and support for REC 709 and REC 2020 color spaces. Automatic SDI switching is available between level A and level B 3G, 6G, and 12G SDI signals, with 2SI required in 8K mode. Processing latency is extremely low, at under 7 lines in Ultra HD and 10 lines in 8K.

Keying and Effects

For creative workflows, the switcher features 16 upstream keyers in Ultra HD or 4 in 8K, supporting chroma, linear, and luma keying. Additionally, there are 4 downstream keyers, 16 advanced chroma keyers, 21 linear/luma keyers, and 4 stinger plus 4 DVE transition keyers. The system can handle up to 28 layers in Ultra HD or 7 layers in 8K. Built-in pattern and color generators, along with 4 DVE processors with 3D borders and drop shadows, enhance broadcast flexibility. The SuperSource engine adds 2 layers for compositing multiple video sources simultaneously.

Media Players and Storage

ATEM Constellation 8K includes four Ultra HD media players or one 8K player, each supporting fill and key. The media pool can store 64 stills in Ultra HD or 24 in 8K, along with 4 video clips in Ultra HD or 2 in 8K. Supported formats include PNG, TGA, BMP, GIF, JPEG, and TIFF for stills, TGA sequences for video, and WAV, MP3, and AIFF for audio. Clip lengths vary depending on resolution, from 3200 frames in 720p down to 100 frames in 8K.

Audio Mixer

The integrated 156-channel Fairlight audio mixer offers full control with On/Off/AFV (Audio-Follow-Video) modes, master gain, level and peak metering, and advanced processing tools. These include a 6-band parametric EQ, along with dynamics processing such as expander, gate, compressor, and limiter, enabling full broadcast-quality audio control.

Software and Updates

The ATEM Software Control Panel is included for Mac (macOS 10.13 or later) and Windows (8.1 or 10 64-bit). Configuration and software updates can be performed via USB or Ethernet, with the ATEM Setup Utility managing chassis-level settings such as IP configuration.

Physical and Environmental Specifications

Physically, the unit occupies 2 rack units in size and features a front panel with a built-in HD LCD display, 42 LED buttons, dedicated source and transition controls, talkback buttons, a menu knob, and lock functionality. It requires dual internal power supplies (100-240V AC) and consumes around 300W. The operating temperature range is 0° to 40° C (32° to 104° F), with storage between -20° to 60° C (-4° to 140° F), and relative humidity up to 90% non-condensing.

What’s Included & Warranty

The package includes the ATEM Constellation 8K switcher, along with a welcome wallet containing a QR code for software download. The product is backed by a 1-year limited manufacturer’s warranty.