Description
Article no.: 24267
AtomX CAST converts a NINJA V or NINJA V+ into a portable, four-input HDMI switcher with an integrated 5" HDR touchscreen monitor. When combined, the NINJA V and AtomX CAST form the Ninja CAST: a fully functioning stand-alone switcher, multiview monitor and broadcast-quality recorder that does not require a computer to operate.
The AtomX CAST expansion docks with the NINJA V/V+ and uses the AtomX port to add multi-input switching. As a result, you get a compact system with 4 HDMI inputs, physical control buttons and a high-quality 5" HDR touchscreen. In practice, this lets you switch live between cameras, record broadcast codecs and monitor multiview outputs—all from a single portable unit.
AtomX CAST targets video creators and anyone who wants to produce broadcast-quality multi-camera programs quickly and simply. Furthermore, it works well for online meetings, presentations, remote learning, virtual conferences and corporate videos. Because CAST focuses on ease of use, you do not need to be a video professional to achieve professional-looking results.
You can switch sources using either the touchscreen or the physical buttons. Additionally, the illuminated input buttons and coloured LEDs for Program and Preview status help you operate in dimly lit environments. This combination of touch and tactile controls gives you flexible, reliable control during live productions.
Attach mirrorless or DSLR cameras, video cameras, computers, game consoles or pre-recorded HDMI content. You can mix and match frame rates up to 60p, and combine interlaced and progressive HD sources. Therefore, you do not need to worry about source synchronization for most HD workflows.
With the NINJA V/V+ docked, AtomX CAST connects via USB-C to a computer and appears as a high-quality webcam (UVC). Consequently, it works immediately with applications such as Zoom, Teams and Skype without requiring driver installation. You can add up to four camera inputs to enhance presentations, meetings or live streams with a simple plug-and-play setup.
The built-in monitor lets you view incoming signals and program output without adding another display. With the NINJA V/V+ docked, you can use its 5" touchscreen for setup, monitoring and the monitor-assist tools for exposure, focus and image analysis. Then, switch to multiview to see all four inputs at once and monitor audio levels simultaneously.
AtomX CAST supports logos, mast head graphics and lower-third titles. You can add custom graphics with transparency for sponsor logos and other on-screen information. Use the Ninja touchscreen to configure layouts and brand your content directly on the device.
Use the Picture in Picture feature to display two inputs at the same time. Any of the four HDMI inputs can serve as the overlay, and you have controls for size and location of the inset image. For example, show a close-up of a product while displaying your face in the inset during a live explanation.
The compact AtomX CAST supports both solo operators and larger teams. Solo creators can carry the Ninja CAST in a small backpack and use it with compact mirrorless cameras. For larger productions, the NINJA V/V+ HDMI output can act as a secondary output for a duplicate program out, crew preview monitoring or connection to a larger multiview display.
While AtomX CAST functions as a stand-alone switcher, you can also use it with a computer for more advanced video production. In that configuration, the CAST and NINJA V/V+ handle the heavy video processing, reducing load on your computer and lowering the likelihood of software crashes. Add AtomX CAST as a media source in OBS, XSplit or vMix to combine CAST’s hardware switching with those applications’ graphics and scene management.
The system accepts professional 10bit/4:2:2 inputs and records in broadcast-quality codecs such as Apple ProRes and Avid DNx. As a result, you can capture edit-ready files suitable for post-production and broadcast workflows.
AtomX CAST can stream to your preferred streaming host, output a broadcast-quality signal to local displays or digital signage, and record using high-quality, edit-ready codecs. In short, it covers streaming, local output and recording simultaneously when needed.
Use Ninja CAST with a proper camera and lens to achieve a cinematic shallow depth of field and a look that differs from typical webcam video. Pay attention to lighting, camera angles and sound to create professional-quality productions. Even older HD camcorders with HDMI output can serve as inputs for a multi-camera setup, so you may already have suitable cameras.
Below are brief explanations of each key feature to clarify how they apply in real use:
question: Will Ninja CAST work with my video conferencing apps right away?
Answer: Yes. When the NINJA V/V+ is docked in AtomX CAST and connected via USB-C, the system appears as a UVC webcam. Therefore, it works with Zoom, Microsoft Teams, Skype and similar apps without driver installation.
question: Can I mix different camera frame rates and formats?
Answer: Yes. AtomX CAST accepts and mixes HD sources up to 60p and supports both interlaced and progressive signals, so you can combine different camera types and frame rates for live switching.
question: Do I need a computer to stream or record?
Answer: No. Ninja CAST operates as a stand-alone switcher and recorder. However, you can also connect it to a computer via USB-C to use it as a media source in streaming applications like OBS, XSplit and vMix for advanced graphics and scene control.
question: What recording formats are supported?
Answer: The system records in broadcast-quality codecs such as Apple ProRes and Avid DNx, and it offers an option for h.265. These formats provide edit-ready files for post-production.
question: How many HDMI inputs and outputs are available?
Answer: AtomX CAST provides four HDMI inputs for multi-camera setups. It also offers separate HDMI outputs: one for a dedicated program out and another multi-function output that can be set to Multi-view, Preview or Program.
question: Can I brand my live stream with overlays?
Answer: Yes. You can overlay custom graphics, transparent logos, mast heads and lower-thirds directly on the Ninja touchscreen, enabling on-device branding and sponsor placement during live productions.