1.0  Introduction - S3 Installation

Pixellot S3 offers automated production of sports videos. Based on Pixellot's patented, fully automated end to end production workflow, Pixellot S3 generates and delivers TV-like footage without a person in the loop. The fully automated production system enables amateur clubs, schools, federations, media platforms and venues to generate live HD content at dramatically reduced costs, and then stream it to fans, players and coaches, live or on demand. 

1.1  System Features

1. Fixed Installation: Indoors or outdoors, weatherproof
   
2. Unmanned capture: Panoramic field capture in 16 Megapixel resolution
   
3. Automated production: Auto-tracking algorithms follow the flow of play and produce TV-like footage 
   
4. Distributed to any device: Streamed in HD quality to mobile devices and web platforms
   
5. Personalized viewing experience: Zoom into any scene, replay, clip and share
   

1.2  Easy Installation

The Pixellot S3 is weatherproof and suitable for installation at any sports arena, both indoor and outdoor. The system is easily installed by any experienced technician who has been trained in the installation process. Some minor infrastructure preparations may be required prior to the system installation. 

This manual describes the procedures for installing the system at a fixed location.

For additional information and/or consultation go to https://helpdesk.pixellot.tv/

Please read the entire manual before beginning the installation to ensure that all necessary preparations are in place before starting the actual installation process.

1.2.1  S3 System Schematic Diagram 

The following schematic diagram shows the setup of the S3 system.

2.0  Safety Instructions

Read this user manual carefully before operating the system.

Follow the authorized maintenance and repair procedures recommended by the manufacturer.

Do not open the unit as this may void the warranty.

Installation should be done by an experienced technician who has been trained for Pixellot installation.

Make sure that all electrical connections are properly grounded.

Make sure that all components and cables are installed in a manner that does not pose a threat of tripping, collision etc. to the players and/or spectators.

3.0  System Components

3.1 Overview

The primary components of the Pixellot S3 system, which must be installed at the sports venue, are the Camera Head Unit (CHU) and the Video Processing Unit (VPU). 

In addition, Pixellot offers several supplemental kits. The Installation Kits (3.1.1) are needed for the installation process, depending on your venue's requirements. Scoreboard Kits (3.1.2) are used to integrate the scoreboard data into your event stream. And, Feature Add-on Kits (3.1.3) expand the functionality of the system. 

Installation of the CHU must be done using the Mount.

The customer must provide the cables needed to connect the CHU to the VPU as well as all connectors and infrastructure elements needed for the cable connections.

3.1.1 Installation Kits

1. Mount Kit – used for installation of the CHU at a fixed location. Includes a Mounting Arm, adapter and pole mount bracket, see MOUNT KIT. 

3.1.2  Scoreboard Kits

Pixellot offers several different methods for integrating scoreboard data into the event stream. The standard S3 package enables manual input of scoreboard data using a mobile app. In addition we offer two methods for automatic scoreboard integration.

1. OCR Scoreboard Kit – an HD video camera captures the scoreboard data and transmits it to the VPU for OCR and integration into the video stream.

3.1.3  Feature Add-on Kits

Pixellot offers additional kits that expand the functionality of the S3 system. These add-ons can be installed as part of the initial setup or added to the system at a later time.

1. Commentator Kit – add commentary to the video stream in real-time.
2. Manual Production Kit –enables you to take direct control of the video production, zooming in and out and following the game action manually. Includes a dedicated laptop running the Manual Production software, joystick, and stream deck.
   
3. Clipper Kit – a sophisticated editing suite that enables coaches and trainers to create clips that zoom in on key game activities. Includes a dedicated laptop running the Clipper software, joystick and jog-wheel. 
   

3.2  Document Scope

This document describes the installation of the S3 in a fixed (i.e. permanent) location. The fixed installation is done using the Mount Kit.   This document also explains the procedure for installing the Commentator Kit.

3.3  Main Components

3.3.1  Camera Head Unit (CHU)

The CHU is the specially designed Pixellot camera unit which captures a panoramic view of the action on the court/field. The S3 CHU consists of three wide angle cameras which combine to provide up to 180° video coverage. The alignment of the cameras is adjustable via VPUM, enabling you to optimize the positioning of the cameras for your deployment location. The video feed is delivered to the VPU through a cable that is attached to a port on the back side of the  ports on the bottom of the CHU.

• Cameras – Each camera captures wide angle video at up to 10 MP resolution

• Mics – The CHU contains two mics to capture the ambient sound. 

• LED Indicators – The LEDs indicate the status of the CHU.  

• WIFI Antenna – Enable full WIFI connection.LEDs indicate the status of the CHU.  

• Camera Alignment  – The alignment of the cameras is performed via the VPUM (VPU Manager).

• Top Mounting Interface – The CHU is mounted on a wall or pole using the mounting arm which attaches to the Top Mounting Interface. (The Bottom Mounting Interface is used for temporary Tripod .)

• Safety Loop – The CHU is secured to a stable surface by passing the Safety Cable through the Safety Loop.

        

3.3.2  Video Processing Unit (VPU)

The VPU is the workstation that processes the video data that is input from the CHU. The VPU stitches the video from both cameras into a single panoramic view. Then, it applies Pixellot's patented AI auto-tracking algorithms to produce a professional quality broadcast of the sports event for cloud-based distribution to mobile devices and web platforms. The VPU is set up in a secure location at the sports venue, where it is connected by an Ethernet cable to the CHU. During the installation process you will need to connect a monitor, keyboard and mouse to the VPU to setup the initial configuration and internet connection.

1. AC Power – an AC power adapter (included) plugs into a standard AC outlet.
   
2. Ethernet Ports – used to connect to the Internet.
   
3. USB3 Ports – The USB cable from the Audio Interface is connected to a USB3 Port on the VPU.
   
4. PoE Ports – the CAT 7 FTP video cables from the CHU connect to these four ports, receiving video input and providing power to the CHU.

The VPU also comes with a power cord and mouse.

3.3.3  Mount Kit

The following components are included in the Mount Kit - arrives with CHU - which is used for fixed installation of the S3 CHU.

1. Mounting Arm – The mounting arm is used to secure the CHU in place. The arm can be mounted on a wall or it can be attached to a pole using the pole mounting bracket. Comes with mounting bolts.
   
2. Pole Mounting Bracket – This bracket is used when the CHU is being mounted on a pole. The bracket is secured to the pole using the metal bands. Once the bracket is in place the mounting arm can be attached to the bracket. 
   

1. 3 X Metal Bands – These bands are used to attach the pole mounting bracket to the pole. The bands provided are suitable for installation on a pole with a diameter from 7-13 cm (3-5"). For installation on a pole with a smaller or wider diameter you will need to obtain the appropriate metal bands.
   
   
2. Adjustable Tilt Adapter and CHU Handle  – The adjustable tilt adapter is used to connect the CHU to the mounting arm. During installation you will set the adapter to the correct Tilt angle for your CHU deployment location.  The handle is attached to the top of the CHU, together with the tilt adapter, to enable easy handling of the unit.
   

1. Safety Cable – This cable is used to connect the CHU to a stable surface as an extra precaution against falling.
   

            

3.3.4  Auxiliary Components

The following auxiliary components come packaged together with the CHU and VPU:

• VPU Power Cable  - for plugging  the VPU into an AC outlet.

3.4  NA:

3.5  Additional Required Parts (Not Included)

The CHU is connected to the VPU by one Ethernet cable. The cables themselves as well as all connectors and infrastructure needed to make the connections must be provided by the customer. The cables should be CAT 7 FTP (or higher rate). For outdoor installation, heavy duty outdoor cables should be used. 

It is recommended to pass the cable through a conduit or protective tubing. For outdoor installation a waterproof protective conduit or tubing is required. 

3.5.1  Standard Installation

For a standard installation (i.e. less than 100 m (328' 1") cable length) one CAT 7 FTP (or higher rate) Ethernet cable are used to connect the CHU to the VPU. The cable should terminate with female connectors. The following is the list of required items:

• 1 X CAT 7 FTP Cables  (of required length, max. 100 m (328' 1"))

For outdoor installation, heavy duty outdoor cables should be used.

• Conduit or tubing (recommended for indoor, weatherproof conduit required for outdoor)

3.6  Required Tools and Equipment

For the initial site survey, you will need a tape measure and a ladder.

For the actual installation of the Pixellot system you will also need the following tools (not provided):

1. Hex (Allen) wrench sizes 4 (5/32”/4mm) and 5 (3/16”/4.8mm)
   
   
2. Socket or wrench sizes 11 (7/16”/11mm) and 14 (9/16”/14mm)
   
3.  9/16”/14mm Hex Short Spline Combination Wrench
   
4. 3/8”/11mm Hex Short Spline Combination Wrench
   
   
5. Flathead screwdriver
   
6. Drill
   
7. Cable tester (e.g. Fluke CableIQ or similar device)
   

You may need additional tools depending on what infrastructure preparations are needed at your site. Additional required tools may include:

1. Platform for working at heights (e.g. ladder, scaffolding, Cherry Picker)
   
2. Power saw
   
3. Pliers
   
4. Wire cutter
   
5. Zip ties 
   

You will also need to have a keyboard, mouse (included) and monitor (with a DVI or HDMI cable) available for running the initial pairing procedure.

4.0  Product Acceptance

The S3 system comes packaged in two boxes. The Black Box contains Pixellot CHU and Accessories.  The Beige Box contains the VPU, with power cable and mouse.

4.1  Checking the ShockWatch Sticker

When you receive delivery of the system, check the ShockWatch sticker on the CHU box to make sure that the package wasn't mishandled during shipping. If the middle bar is white, that indicates that the box was handled properly. If there is a reddish color at the center of the white bar, that indicates that the package was gross mishandled during shipping. In such a case, do not unbox the product, as it is likely damaged. Report the situation immediately to Pixellot Customer Service. See the examples below for reference:

4.2  Checking the Package Contents

Upon receiving the system, open each of the boxes to ensure that you have received all components that are needed for installation. When the S3 system is shipped together with the Mounting Kit, the package contents should be as described below. If any components are missing or damaged contact Pixellot Customer Service immediately.

The Black Box (CHU package) contains the following: 

• CHU

• WIFI Antenna (located inside back panel)

• Adjustable Tilt Adapter with Handle

• Safety Cable

• Mounting Arm 

• Pole Mounting Bracket

• 3 X Metal Bands

The VPU package contains the following:

• VPU

• Power Cable

• Mouse

If your system includes the Commentator Kit (optional) then the VPU package will also contain the Audio Interface Unit and USB cable.

5.0  Site Setup

5.1   Read Site Survey Document to conduct Site Survey.

5.2  VPU Location

The VPU must be set up in a dry, secure location that is not exposed to moisture, direct sunlight or impact from external objects (e.g. people, balls, animals etc.). The preferred solution is to set up the VPU in an enclosed room such as an office or utility room. If no such location is available, consult your Pixellot Support Representative for guidance in creating a dedicated enclosure to house the VPU. 

The VPU location must conform to the following requirements:

1. Inside an enclosed room that provides protection from moisture, direct sunlight, extreme heat or cold, collision of people or objects, access of unauthorized personnel.
   

1. Located within 100 m (328' 1") of the CHU 
   
   For installation at a distance greater than 200 m (656' 2") there is also an option to use our Fiber Kit to greatly extend the range. Please contact your Pixellot Support Agent for details.

1. An unobstructed path is available for the cables to connect the VPU to the CHU
   
2. Access to an AC power outlet with electrical grounding
   
3. Access to an internet connection with an upload speed of 5 Mbps or better
   
4. Check with your venue’s IT department to ensure the following Ports are open:

Port #          Protocols

123                  TCP

443                  TCP,UDP

2088                UDP

5.3  Cable Configuration

You need to determine the path through which the cables will pass in order to connect the CHU to the VPU. You will also determine how the cables will be terminated and what additional components and parts will be needed to complete the cable connections.

Choosing the Cable Route

Choose the route using the following guidelines:

• Ensure that the cables and their conduits do not obstruct movement of players or spectators.

• If the cables will run along the floor/ground, make sure that they are below ground or flush with the ground so that they don't pose a tripping hazard.

Measuring the Cable Length

Measure the total length of cable needed to cover the route from the CHU to the VPU and record it. Currently PIXELLOT supports distance up to 100m.  

Required Components

Determine how the cables will terminate (connectors, outlets) and what additional components and parts will be required.

For outdoor installation, heavy duty outdoor cables should be used.

5.4  Preparing of the CHU:

The physical alignment of the cameras is determined by two settings:

• Tilt – defines the vertical angle at which the CHU is mounted on the mounting arm.

• Mode – Configured via the VPUM.

Prior to the actual on-site installation, you will need to determine these settings. This is done by running our Pixellot Connect App.

Installation QR Code for Pixellot Connect App:

Another method of installing the Pixellot Connect App, on a mobile device, is to download and install the app from the App Stores.

For Android version: Click Here.

For IOS (Apple) version: Click Here.

While running this app you will need to input the following details:

• Part Number (printed on the CHU S/N sticker)

• Court/field type i.e. size of playing field (e.g. basketball court, soccer field etc.)

• Height of the CHU location

• Distance of the CHU from the court/field

1. Lay out the cable along the route that they will pass to connect the CHU to the VPU but don't attach them in place.

2. Once the full cable route is set up. Test each of  the cables to make sure that none of the wires have shorts, crosses or disconnections. This is done using a cable testing device (e.g. Fluke Cable device). 

1. While the CHU is resting on the ground or on a stable surface, insert Cable to the PoE IN-Main, on back of the CHU and then secure the back cover.

1. Set up the VPU on a secure flat surface (e.g. desktop), preferably in the facility where it will be permanently installed.

2. Connect the VPU to the internet using the Ethernet port (1).

3. Connect Cable to PoE port (2) on the back of the VPU towards the bottom of the unit (any one of the 4 available ports can be used). 

4. Plug in the VPU's power adapter into a grounded AC power outlet. (3)

5. Power on the VPU.

6. Open Pixellot Connect App (see section 5.2 for instructions to download Pixellot Connect App), and follow the instruction in order to complete the installation.

Secure the mounting arm in place in the location that you chose for placement of the CHU during the site survey as described in section CHOOSING THE CHU LOCATION. If the surface on which the mounting arm will be installed is not yet in place then begin by constructing the surface in the desired location. The mounting arm can be attached directly to the wall or ceiling or to a pole using the pole mounting bracket. 

Make sure that the mounting surface provides electrical grounding for the CHU. 

 Make sure that the infrastructure is strong enough to support a 15 kg (33 lb) load. 

1. At the position where you would like to attach the mounting arm, install 4 wall anchors in the wall aligned with the holes in the base of the mounting arm.

2. Insert 4 bolts (included) through the base of the mounting arm and screw them tightly into the wall anchors. 

3. Make sure the bolts are securely fastened in place. 

Pole Installation

1. Pass each of the 3 metal bands through one of the pairs of slots in the pole mounting bracket.
   
2. Wrap the metal bands around the pole.
   
   
3. With the bracket in place at the correct height, tighten the 3 metal bands using a flathead screwdriver.
   
   
4. Insert 4 bolts through the base of the mounting arm and into the corresponding holes in the pole mounting bracket.
   
   
5. Make sure the bolts are securely fastened in place.
   

The bands provided are suitable for installation on a pole with a diameter from 7-13 cm (3-5"). For installation on a pole with a smaller or wider diameter you will need to obtain the appropriate metal bands. The metal bands can also be adjusted to fit onto a rectangular profile.

6.2.2  Installing the Cables

One CAT 7 FTP cable is used to connect the CHU to the VPU. It must be installed along the entire path from the CHU to the VPU and connected using the appropriate connectors. You will use the same items that were used in the PRE-INSTALLATION CHECK, but you will now attach the cables in their permanent positions. 

If you will be using direct scoreboard integration using the Integrated Scoreboard Kit then you will also need to pass a cable from the scoreboard or scoreboard controller to the VPU. If you are using an OCR Scoreboard Kit then you will need to pass a cable from the Scoreboard Camera to the VPU.

  All infrastructure installation should be done by a trained technician.

Step 1 – Preparing the cable path

Starting from the CHU side prepare a path by which the cables can pass from the CHU to the VPU. It is recommended to prepare a conduit through which the cables can pass along the entire route.

For outdoor installation the cables should pass through a waterproof protective conduit or tubing. 

Prepare the route using the following guidelines:

• Ensure that the cables and their conduits do not obstruct movement of players or spectators.

• If the cables run along the floor/ground, make sure that they are below ground or flush with the ground so that they don't pose a tripping hazard.

Step 2 – Installing the cable

Once the path has been prepared, install the cable along the entire path form the CHU to the VPU, being careful not to damage the cable. Make sure that the cable is secured in place along the entire route.

Don't connect the cable to the CHU and VPU until they have been tested.

Step 3 – Re-testing the cables

Once the full route of the cables is set up and attached along the entire route. Re-test each of  the cables to make sure that none of the wires were damaged during the installation. This is done using a cable testing device (e.g. Fluke Cable device). 

  Don't attach the cables to the CHU until the CHU has been mounted in it's final position.

 

1. Ensure that the physical position of the cameras inside the housing is in the correct Mode, see PREPARING THE CHU FOR INSTALLATION.

2. Disassemble the adjustable tilt adapter by removing the two bolts from the face of the unit.

3. Separate the outer casing from the fixed mounting hub.

4. Place the CHU handle underneath the outer casing and attach them to the top side of the CHU by screwing the two bolts into the two holes of the top mounting interface as follows:

For permanent installation, only the top mounting interface should be used (not the bottom mounting interface). The top side of the unit is indicated by the fact that the Pixellot logo is right side up.

a. Place the outer casing and CHU handle in position.

  

b. Screw in the large bolt.

 

c. Screw in the smaller bolt.

                  

 

5. Attach the mounting hub to the mounting arm as follows:

a. Verify that the mounting arm is firmly attached to the supporting surface. See INSTALLING THE MOUNTING .

b. Verify that the main allen bolt in the center of the mounting hub is securely tightened.

 

c. Insert the mounting hub into the socket of the mounting arm with the gap in the upper rim facing forward (in alignment with the protrusion on the mounting arm socket).

 

d. Rotate the mounting hub 90° (it doesn't matter in which direction) until it is aligned with the direction of the mounting arm as shown below.

  

e. Tighten the bolts on both sides evenly.

 

6. Pick up the CHU by the black handle and climb a ladder to reach the position of the mounting arm. 

 

  Make sure to take the nuts and bolts that you removed from the face of the adjustable mounting bracket with you as well as the required tools.

7. Position the CHU facing forward with the center hole of the outer casing aligned with the center hole of the mounting hub.

8. Insert the 3/8” (larger) bolt in the center hole and secure it with its nut.

 

9.  Use the Pixellot Connect App to calculate the CHU Tilt and Mode.   

10. Insert the 1/4” (smaller) bolt into whichever of the four holes in the outer casing enables the bolt to penetrate through the hub while maintaining the correct Tilt. Secure it with the nut.

            

11. Pass the safety cable through the Safety Loop on the CHU and fasten it to a stable support, as an extra protection against falling. 

 

6.3.2  Once Physical Setup is complete, the Pixellot Connect App is used for final configuration: