The Blackmagic Design Spares - 40 Clear Button Caps set is a specialized replacement kit designed for the tactile control surfaces of Blackmagic’s broadcast hardware. These caps are the physical plastic covers that snap onto the micro-switches of switcher panels and routers, serving as the primary interface for the operator.
Functional Role and Design
These button caps are engineered specifically for backlit environments. Because Blackmagic hardware uses RGB LEDs to indicate status (e.g., Red for Program, Green for Preview, Amber for Selection), the caps must be perfectly transparent or slightly frosted to diffuse light evenly.
-
Material: High-durability clear polycarbonate designed to resist yellowing and the oils from skin over years of use.
-
Tactile Feel: They feature a specific "snap-on" internal geometry that ensures they sit squarely on the switch and provide a consistent "click" feedback.
-
Labeling Capability: These clear caps are designed to hold translucent labels. Operators can slide small printed film inserts inside the cap before snapping it onto the panel, allowing for custom labeling of sources (e.g., "CAM 1," "VTR," "MAC").
Compatible Hardware
This spare part set is standard across many of Blackmagic's "button-heavy" devices. It is the primary replacement kit for:
-
ATEM Production Switchers: Including the ATEM 1 M/E and 2 M/E panels, as well as the Television Studio series.
-
Videohub Control Panels: Specifically the Videohub Smart Control and Videohub Master Control, which rely entirely on these buttons for routing.
-
Smart Videohub Routers: For the front-panel control buttons on the 12x12, 20x20, and 40x40 models.
Why a 40-Piece Kit?
Blackmagic offers these in bulk sets because button caps are "high-wear" items and can occasionally go missing or become damaged during intense live productions.
-
Wear and Tear: Over time, the clear plastic can become scratched or "cloudy," obscuring the labels underneath.
-
Lost Caps: During shipping or when changing internal labels, caps can pop off and be misplaced.
-
Consistency: When replacing one cap, it is often better to replace the entire row so that the clarity and "feel" match across the panel.
Key Features
-
OEM Fit: Guaranteed to match the height and "travel" of the original buttons perfectly.
-
Tool-less Installation: These are designed to be "user-serviceable," meaning they can be pulled off and snapped on by hand or with a small non-marring pry tool.
-
Label Support: Features the internal slot for holding 12mm x 12mm (approx.) film or paper inserts.
Technical Installation Note
Replacing button caps is a simple maintenance task, but there are a few professional tips to ensure the best results:
-
Alignment: When snapping the cap on, ensure it is oriented correctly so the label is not crooked. Once snapped into place, they can be difficult to rotate without removing them again.
-
Cleaning: Before installing new caps, use a can of compressed air to blow out any dust or debris from the switch matrix. Dust trapped under a clear cap is highly visible once the backlight is turned on.
-
Label Printing: For the most professional look, use transparency film (OHP sheets) in a laser printer rather than standard paper. This allows the LED light to pass through much more brightly and evenly.
Are you replacing these on a dedicated ATEM panel or a Videohub Smart Control? Knowing the device can help determine if you also need the specific label template for printing.