The Blackmagic Design Spares - ATEM 2 M/E Panel - Keycap Label Set provides the clear plastic lenses and the corresponding text/icon inserts for the large, broadcast-style buttons on the 2 M/E Advanced or Broadcast Panels.
Because these panels are designed for high-pressure live environments, the labels allow operators to customize the layout so they aren't guessing which button corresponds to "Remote 1," "Steadicam," or "Graphic 2."
What’s Included in a Label Set
-
Clear Snap-on Lenses: The transparent "caps" that sit on top of the button plungers. They are designed to be popped off for easy label swapping.
-
Pre-Printed Transparencies: High-contrast film inserts featuring common industry labels:
-
Inputs: CAM 1–20, VTR 1–4, PC, MAC, GFX 1–4.
-
Functions: SHIFT, CUT, AUTO, FTB, WIPE, MIX.
-
Blanks: Clear or frosted strips for creating custom handwritten or printed labels.
-
Compatibility: These are sized specifically for the 15mm or 18mm square buttons (depending on the panel generation) used in the full-size M/E rows.
Why Replace the Keycaps and Labels?
-
Discoloration: Over years of use, the clear plastic can "yellow" or become cloudy from the heat of the internal LEDs, making it difficult to distinguish between Red (Program) and Green (Preview).
-
Cracking: The tiny plastic "teeth" that hold the cap to the button stem can become brittle and snap, causing the cap to fall off during a live switch.
-
Wear and Scuffing: Thousands of button presses can physically wear down the smooth surface of the cap, creating "blind spots" where the light doesn't shine through evenly.
-
Customization: When a studio's input list changes (e.g., adding a "Drone" or "Zoom" feed), a fresh set of labels is required to keep the panel professional and readable.
Installation Guide
Repair Level: 1 (User Maintainable).
-
Extraction: Use a specialized Keycap Puller (often included in the kit) or a very thin plastic pry tool. Hook the edges and pull straight up. Do not pry from one side, as this can snap the retention clips.
-
Insert Placement: Place the new transparency strip inside the clear lens. Ensure it is oriented correctly; some sets have a specific "top" and "bottom" to ensure the text is centered over the LED.
-
Seating: Align the cap with the square plunger and press down until you hear a firm click.
-
The "Wobble" Test: Give the cap a gentle tap on all four corners. If it feels loose, it isn't fully seated and may fly off during a fast transition.
Pro-Tip: Making Your Own Labels
If the pre-printed set doesn't have the specific label you need:
-
The Material: Use Matte Overhead Transparency Film for laser or inkjet printers. Standard paper is too opaque and will result in "dim" buttons.
-
The Template: Most operators use a simple 10x10 or 12x12 grid in a spreadsheet or design app.
-
The Font: Use a Bold, Sans-Serif font (like Helvetica or Arial). Serif fonts are harder to read under the glow of the internal LEDs in a dark control room.
Diagnostic: Label vs. LED Failure
If a button is dark, swapping the label won't help:
-
Test: Swap a "dark" keycap with a "lit" one from a neighboring button.
-
Result: If the new cap is still dark, the LED on the internal PCB has failed, and you will need to replace the Left, Right, or Main PCB depending on which section of the panel the button is in.
Are you looking for the full pre-printed "CAM 1-20" set, or do you just need a handful of replacement clear plastic lenses?
