Flight Path is a trace memory function for the BirdDog KBD controller that allows you to record and repeat complex Pan-Tilt-Zoom (PTZ) camera movements. This is ideal for repeatable cinematic shots, such as audience scans or stage transitions, without requiring a dedicated operator for every move.
BirdDog KBD Firmware: Ensure your KBD is updated to the version supporting Flight Path.
Camera Compatibility: Optimized for BirdDog X series cameras, but functional with most NDI PTZ cameras.
Interface Mode: You must be in Full Screen (Single Camera) mode on the KBD. Flight Path controls will not trigger while in the Multiview or Telemetry screens.
Each camera added to the KBD can store its own unique set of up to 10 Flight Path IDs (0–9).
Select the Camera: Ensure the desired camera is active in full-screen mode.
Enter Recording Mode: Press and hold the PRESET button for one second.
Assign an ID: When prompted on the screen, enter a number from 0–9. Use the joystick (left/right) to backspace if needed.
Set Repeat Options:
Choose Yes or No for "Repeat."
If Yes, set an Interval (breathing space) between 7 and 30 seconds.
Start Recording: The PRESET button will flash. The recording begins as soon as you initiate a joystick movement.
Perform the Move: Use the joystick and zoom rocker to perform your cinematic move.
Save: Press ENTER once the move is complete. You will see a "Flight Path Saved Successfully" confirmation.
Recalling a Flight Path is a separate action from calling a static preset, meaning you can use the same numbers for both.
Select the Camera: Ensure you are controlling the camera associated with the path.
Enter Recall Mode: Press and hold the CALL button for one second.
Enter ID: Input the ID number (0–9) and press ENTER.
Preparation: The camera will automatically move to the starting position of the recording. The CALL button will flash.
Execute: Once the camera is in position, the ENTER button will flash. Press ENTER to start the playback of the recorded motion.
Looping: If "Repeat" was set to Yes, the camera will hold at the end of the path for the designated interval, return to the start, and wait for you to press ENTER again.
Emergency Stop: Press ESC at any time during recall to bail out. You must press ENTER to confirm the stop.
Manual Override: If you move the joystick during a Flight Path playback, the KBD will prompt: "Do you want to stop the call?" Press ENTER to take manual control.
Local Storage: Flight Paths are stored on the KBD itself, not the camera. If you switch to a different KBD unit, your saved paths will not be available.
Concurrent Control: Currently, the KBD’s attention is locked to the camera performing the Flight Path. You cannot control a second camera manually while one is executing a Flight Path.