Summary

Project Description

To facilitate live streaming, I purchased the ATEM Mini Pro ISO switcher. It's an excellent device, but its compact size isn't ideal for stationary installation. Initially, I kept connecting and disconnecting it on a small side table. However, I later came across a project that inspired me.

I really liked the idea of creating a mobile setup that would require minimal time and effort for deployment and teardown. I decided to replicate it, but with a few modifications of my own. In addition to sourcing almost everything from AliExpress (for convenience—links provided below), I made the following changes:

1. Monitor

I use a 7-inch monitor for my camera. While this size is fine for a single image, it becomes uncomfortable to work with when using the ATEM MultiView mode. So, I opted for a larger 11.6-inch monitor (link).

2. Case

A larger monitor required a different case. I chose this one (340x270x100mm) (link).

3. Connectors & Ports

I didn’t like the idea of cutting a large hole in the case to access the ATEM’s built-in ports. This would reduce the structural integrity and allow dust and debris inside (which contradicts the concept of a mobile solution). Instead, I decided to extend all ATEM ports externally.

• Round holes were drilled, while other shapes were cut with a utility knife.
• 30cm extension cables were used for connections.
• Main components: link, link, link, link.

4. Power Supply

• The monitor operates on 5V, while the ATEM requires 12V.
• In field conditions, backup power (car battery, portable power bank) may be useful.
• I decided to use a step-down power supply module (link), which allows me to connect various power sources: laptop chargers (both 19V and 24V), car batteries, or an 18V drill battery (which I also use to power my BMPCC6K camera) (https://a.aliexpress.com/_opsFOZM), (https://a.aliexpress.com/_oCMNuAm).

My setup has five power ports:

• Four inputs (paired, with 2.1mm & 2.5mm center pins for compatibility and redundancy) (https://a.aliexpress.com/_oCGqR3k).
• One output (connected to a regulated power channel via a Schottky diode and fuse for protection).

To ensure seamless power switching, the input power is routed through Schottky diodes, allowing a new power source (e.g., a fresh battery or mains adapter) to be connected without disrupting operation.

• ATEM and monitor power are controlled via separate switches, which helps conserve battery when running on portable power (https://a.aliexpress.com/_oBikbDu).
• The output port is intended for powering an external webcam (it could also power a BMPCC, but I prefer a dedicated power source for the camera).

5. External HDMI Output

I like to output the ATEM HDMI feed to an external monitor or TV for better broadcast monitoring and audience comfort.

• Since my chosen monitor is designed more for Raspberry Pi and laptops, it lacks an HDMI output port.
• To address this, I added an external HDMI splitter (link) and removed its casing.
• This splitter can duplicate any ATEM input signal (e.g., monitoring a specific camera feed), but I primarily use it for duplicating the HDMI output.
• Power for the splitter (5V) is supplied from the power module described earlier.

6. Cooling

After two weeks of testing, I found that even after several hours of operation, the setup doesn’t overheat, so no additional cooling was required.
UPDATE: Future use (several 3+ hours live stream with recording) show that heat generation in the closed volume of the case is quite significant. The main sources of heat are the ATEM itself and the step-down power supply module. It was decided to use forced ventilation (Links to AliExpress: Fan, Dust filter, Guard Grill).
In order not to violate the integrity of the case, it was decided to mount air intakes and fans on the top panel. Power is supplied trough the ATEM power switch. I will report on the results.

7. USB-C Port

I attempted to extend the ATEM USB-C port, but the USB-C extension cables I tried failed to support external SSD recording.

• Most USB-C hubs are designed for charging, not data transfer.
• For now, I connect the SSD directly to the ATEM.
• I’m considering testing this USB-C hub (link), but I haven’t ordered or tested it yet.
  UPD: Bought 10Gbps USB Type C 3.1 Square Flush Mount Cable and mount it on the right side. Works fine.

8. Tripod Mounting

I made a cheese plate that fits into the case’s built-in recess.

• I currently use one mounting hole (visible in the photos) for a horizontal tripod mount (no tilt adjustment).
• Other holes could be used for mounting accessories (e.g., an HDD or battery), but I haven’t explored that yet.

Final Thoughts

I’m very happy with the final mobile ATEM setup.

• Storage is efficient, and
• Setup time has been reduced to just a couple of minutes.

Usage Notes & Future Plans

1. The case lid opens slightly beyond 90°. Having a wider opening angle with adjustable positioning could be more convenient, but the current design works fine.
2. The ATEM works best when paired with a laptop. I plan to mount the ATEM next to a laptop stand (link) for an integrated workstation setup.