The phrase "vision mixer" is spelled using the International Phonetic Alphabet as /ˈvɪʒən ˈmɪksə/. The first syllable "vi-" is pronounced with the vowel sound of "ih" followed by the consonant "zh" (voiced palato-alveolar fricative), while the second syllable "sion" is pronounced with the vowel sound of "ih" and the consonant sound "sh" (voiceless palato-alveolar fricative). The final syllable "mixer" is pronounced with the vowel sound of "ih" and the consonant sounds "ks" (voiceless alveolar fricative) and "er" (r-colored vowel).
A vision mixer, also known as a video switcher or a production switcher, is a specialized electronic device used in television production or live event broadcasting. It is a crucial component that allows operators to seamlessly switch between multiple video sources in real-time, creating a seamless and dynamic visual experience for the audience.
The main purpose of a vision mixer is to switch, mix, or switch and mix video signals from various sources, such as cameras, video players, computers, or other video devices. These sources are connected to the vision mixer via video cables, enabling the operator to select which source should be displayed on the output display or sent to the broadcasting system.
In addition to switching functionality, vision mixers often offer a range of other features to enhance the production quality, including transitions, effects, graphics insertion, and keying (superimposing one image or video over another). They typically feature a control panel with an array of buttons, sliders, and knobs, allowing the operator to make quick and precise adjustments.
Vision mixers are widely used in a variety of professional broadcasting settings, such as live news broadcasts, sports events, concerts, talk shows, and many other productions where multiple video sources need to be seamlessly combined and switched. They play a pivotal role in ensuring smooth and engaging visual content for television viewers or live audiences.
The term "vision mixer" is derived from the field of television production, specifically the role of a technician known as a vision mixer or video switcher. The word "vision" in this context refers to the video or visual aspect of television production, while "mixer" refers to the action of combining or switching between different video sources.
The term originated in the early days of television when the process of mixing or switching between multiple video sources was done manually by physically connecting various video signals using switches and knobs. The vision mixer's role was to seamlessly transition between cameras, videos, graphics, or other sources during a live broadcast.
As technology progressed, vision mixing became an automated process through the use of electronic video switchers. However, the term "vision mixer" is still used to describe the equipment and the individuals responsible for controlling and operating these video switchers.