Calvin University - Grand Rapids, Michigan

At Calvin University, we were in need of a solution to reliable camera control in our indoor arena, in a place where there is not a dedicated camera deck, nor the room/option to build one. After coming across the RCT booth at NAB’s 2025 tradeshow, my team was sure that we had found the answer to our problem in the form of the FR-1 PTZ controller.

In our indoor arena, we previously had a PTZ that was mounted high enough for a good wide-angle shot to follow the action/play of our athletics (volleyball, basketball, and acrobatics primarily), but were stuck using the manufacturer’s controller. This had quite a few drawbacks, especially when it came to the joystick and precise movements. The camera itself was also aging, and in need of being life-cycled, which gave us the opportunity to upgrade the unit, rather than just replace it with a newer version of the same camera that we weren’t particularly happy with. This was what also allowed us to upgrade our controller as well.

The ultimate solution to our problems was the RCT FR-1. This unit allowed us to have essentially the same control over at PTZ as we would with a manned camera in the space. Our previous solution to this was to in fact put a broadcast camera setup where it was needed, which would entail several extra days of pre-planning and setup, rental of a lift which could get high enough to clear the top of our bleachers for an uninterrupted sightline, and an operator who was trained on both lift use. This additional cost for every game where it was necessary could tend to be a burden on our production, as well as our University.

One of the largest value propositions for this controller is that it also allows us the option to expand into our other athletic/performance spaces, as we begin to replace and upgrade our camera selection. Allowing a single operator to have manned-camera control over an IP based camera that is in a completely seperate building has been game changing in the way that we run our productions. It has also semi-eliminated the need for our camera operator to be on our intercom system, freeing up beltpacks/channels for other things, while still allowing the operator and our director/TD to have clear and open communication with cameras.

“We had a troublesome spot where we needed manned-camera quality and control, in a spot/arena where we couldn’t physically place a human being. The RCT FR-1 allowed us the control over a PTZ camera that mirrored that of a camera being directly controlled by an operator, and allowed for more flexible expansion in our other campus venues as we plan for future upgrades. The team at RCT was great to work with from Day 1, and we’re looking forward to continuing to work with them for any additional projects that may fall to our desk.”

Justin Kendall | Event Production Technology Specialist | Calvin University