K-StateHD.TV Technical Director - Kansas State University Athletics

In WSC we have a Ross Acuity 3ME switcher. For Board Show in Volleyball we have a Ross Acuity 2ME switcher. They operate exactly the same, They are just different sizes.

- Technical Director Things To Know
The control rooms are open for you to come in and get some hands-on experience at any time. Take advantage of this opportunity to review what you have been shown, get some muscle memory, and explore menus. Spending time on the equipment is the only way to learn it.
If you have an interest in becoming a TD, you will need to take time to learn how to build a show from scratch. Transitions, Custom Controls, DVE, etc. We have a setup where this isn’t normally required, but if you work in a production truck that is going from show to show this will be expected. Take time to explore, learn, and try to recreate the things that we are doing or things that you see watching other games.
This how-to document will help you get started when building your own show.
Ross Acuity Menu Number List - helpful in navigating through different menus on the Acuity Dashboard Panel
Here is an excellent interview with an ESPN Technical Director, and K-State Alum, that describes his setup and operation during a basketball game.

Key Source - Signal determining how background is cut out with key
Key Fill - Signal that replaces the cut out part of the key source
ME - Mix Effect bus on switcher that has its own keys, transitions, etc.
Custom Control- Button which recalls a series of commands. We use these for our replay animations, team transitions, cappers, etc.
Memory - Timeline that can trigger multiple functions and include durations
DVE - Digital Video Effect
Clean Feed - Program Output minus designated keys

Tutorials from Ross

Here is a series of videos produced by Ross that do an excellent job of explaining different parts of the switcher and setup. They are definitely worth taking some time to watch
Acuity Ross University