Macros in LiveEdit
Macros are "actions memory", they are present in many software, from MS Excel to video switchers. Their main interest lies in their simplicity : each action is contained in a line, and a line contains just one action.
When introduced in switchers in the late 90's, Macros were sometime seen as "toys" by high-end TD's, thinking they were too limited to be used in complex shows. But lightness is actually their main strength, and they were quickly generalized in almost all switchers.
Macros in LiveEdit
In LiveEdit, macros have been introduced in version X. All the controllable devices have their own macro type, allowing the operator to create a macro step sending a command to the related equipment.
- Switcher [crosspoint and transition control]
- Effect [macro / Timeline / Emem / Snapshot - recall or play]
- Triggers [Midi / OSC / Art-Net / Vizrt / GPO]
- Devices [AMP / VDCP / BVW75 / Built-in Media Player]
Comments
A very useful feature in LiveEdit is the possibility to insert comments at any place into macros. It allows to explain (for yourself as a reminder, or for co workers) what a macro does and why you have chosen a certain structure.
Wait for previous end
On top of the classic 'pause for a certain time' (in frames or seconds), and 'wait for user', LiveEdit offers a unique 'wait for previous action ends'. This unique feature avoids when you modify the timing of a line to manually have to update the following pause. It may look as a small thing, but in high stress conditions of live shows, it may save some persons life.
Macros triggered from API - with variable values
Macros, as most of LiveEdit commands, can be triggered from an external device via the OSC-based API.
For instance "/live/macros/take ,s MyMacro", will trig the macro named "MyMacro".
Another unique feature in LiveEdit is the possibility to pass one or several arguments (up to 99) with a macro recall.
"/live/macros/take ,ss OtherMacro 6", will trig the macro named "OtherMacro" and pass it the argument "6".
The variable values tab in macro editor will then select how this argument should be interpreted. For instance, it can relates to a camera number, an Aux name, an Art-Net Universe/channel or any other parameter.
Even if LiveEdit macro basic concept is similar to what can be found in switchers or other devices, the added possibilities make them an incredibly powerful and flexible tool. Giving to this simple tool an extraordinary range of use, from simple manual recall to highly customized workflows integrating all possible scenarios one may encounter during a live production.
Macros recalled via Stream Deck
The recently developed support of Stream Deck panel adds even more ease of use to macros.
Macros, as other functions, can be freely assigned to any panel button.
For more details on LiveEdit - Stream Deck integration, you can read our article.
In this example, macros "Opening", "Reveal x5", "Reveal x3" and "End credits" can be triggered by simple keystrokes, beside classic controls.