Blackmagic Design ATEM 1 M/E Advanced Panel 20

Blackmagic Design ATEM 1 M/E Advanced Panel 20

The Blackmagic Design ATEM 1 M/E Advanced Panel 20 is a professional hardware control surface that strikes a perfect balance between high-density source access and a space-saving footprint. While it maintains a single physical M/E row, it features 20 dedicated input buttons, allowing for double the direct access compared to the entry-level "Panel 10."

Core Functionality

• 20 Direct Cross Points: Unlike the smaller 10-button version, this panel allows you to see and select 20 sources instantly. With the Shift button, you can access a total of 40 sources without needing to touch a computer mouse.

• Dual System Control LCDs: It features two independent LCD screens for menu navigation. This allows you to manage one set of parameters (like a Chroma Key) on one screen while simultaneously adjusting another (like a DVE transition) on the second.

• 4 M/E Selection: Even though it has only one physical row of buttons, it includes dedicated M/E selection buttons. This lets you "bank-switch" the entire panel to control M/E 1, 2, 3, or 4 on a larger switcher like the ATEM Constellation 8K.

• Select Bus: Located conveniently above the main input row, the Select Bus allows you to route sources to auxiliary outputs or internal keyers rapidly without interrupting the main program feed.

Key Hardware Features

• 3-Axis Joystick: Provides precise tactile control for positioning the DVE (Picture-in-Picture) and adjusting wipe patterns. It can also be used to remotely control PTZ cameras.

• Weighted T-Bar Fader: A professional-grade, ergonomically designed fader that allows you to "feel" a transition, ensuring your dissolves and wipes stay perfectly in sync with the live action.

• Dynamic LCD Scribble Strips: Every input button is paired with a high-resolution LCD display that automatically updates with the source name and color assigned in the ATEM software.

• Dedicated Keyer Controls: Includes physical buttons for 4 Upstream Keyers and 4 Downstream Keyers, making it easy to bring graphics, logos, and green-screen overlays on and off-air instantly.

Technical Specifications

Operational Insight

In 2026, the Panel 20 is widely regarded as the "Goldilocks" of the 1 M/E lineup. At roughly 28 inches wide, it is specifically designed to fit into standard equipment racks or "fly-packs." It provides enough buttons to handle a modern multi-camera shoot (e.g., 8 cameras, 4 media players, and 4 remote feeds) on one visible row, making it a favorite for mobile production trailers and mid-sized church broadcasts.

Redundancy Tip: To maximize reliability, utilize both IEC power inputs. Plug one into your main power source and the other into a Uninterruptible Power Supply (UPS). If your main power fails, the panel will switch to the redundant input instantly without dropping your connection to the switcher.