The Blackmagic Design Spares - Power Supply - Smart Remote 4 30W is the dedicated external power brick designed to provide stable, low-noise DC power to the Ultimatte Smart Remote 4. Given that the Smart Remote 4 features a large 10.1-inch touchscreen and manages high-speed network communication with multiple Ultimatte 12 units, a consistent and reliable power source is vital to prevent interface lag or unexpected reboots during live broadcasts.
Technical Specifications and Power Delivery
The 30W power supply is engineered to handle the specific current draw requirements of the Smart Remote's internal components and backlight.
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Output: Rated at 12V DC, providing the necessary 30 watts of power.
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Connector Type: It typically utilizes a locking DC barrel connector. This is a critical feature for professional environments, as it prevents the cable from being accidentally pulled out—a common hazard in high-traffic control rooms or mobile broadcast trucks.
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Universal Compatibility: The "brick" is usually auto-switching, supporting input voltages from 100V to 240V AC, making it compatible with power grids worldwide when used with the appropriate regional IEC or wall plug adapter.
Why a Genuine Spare Matters
While third-party 12V power supplies exist, using the official Blackmagic 30W unit is highly recommended for several reasons:
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Voltage Ripple Protection: Professional video equipment is sensitive to "dirty" power. This supply is designed to minimize electronic noise that could potentially interfere with the touch sensitivity of the screen or the stability of the network logic.
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Thermal Efficiency: The supply is rated to run 24/7 without overheating, which is essential for "always-on" broadcast facilities.
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Safety Compliance: It meets the specific regulatory standards required for use in professional rack environments and television studios.
Symptoms of a Failing Power Supply
If your Smart Remote 4 is experiencing issues, the power supply is often the first component to check. Common signs of failure include:
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Screen Flickering: The backlight struggles to stay consistent due to fluctuating voltage.
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Unresponsive Touch: Inconsistent power can cause the capacitive touch digitizer to behave erratically or stop responding.
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Random Reboots: The unit shuts down or restarts when the processor hits a peak load (such as when scanning the network for Ultimatte units).
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Internal Component Protection: A failing supply can sometimes "pulse," which may eventually damage the Main PCB if not replaced promptly.
Key Features
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OEM Reliability: Guaranteed to provide the exact wattage and amperage required by the Smart Remote 4.
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Locking Connector: Ensures a secure physical connection that resists vibration and accidental disconnection.
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Compact Design: Small enough to be tucked away in a cable tray or mounted behind a rack.
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Quick Swap: A non-invasive repair—simply unplug the old unit and plug in the new one.
Technical Note
Before purchasing, verify that the issue is indeed the external brick and not the internal DC jack on the Smart Remote's Main PCB. If the unit powers on when the cable is wiggled but cuts out otherwise, the internal jack may be loose. If the unit is completely "dead" and the LED on the power brick (if present) is unlit, the external power supply is the definitive culprit.
