High-precision optical camera tracking system from Stype—uses IR markers for 6DoF position data and is standard in broadcast and virtual production worldwide.
What is Stype RedSpy?
The Stype RedSpy is an optical camera tracking system for precise real-time capture of position and orientation. With 6 Degrees of Freedom (6DoF) and low latency, RedSpy is a leading system for Broadcast, Virtual Production, and Live Events.
Technical Specifications
| Parameter | Value |
|---|---|
| Manufacturer | Stype |
| Tracking Principle | Optical (Infrared) |
| Degrees of Freedom | 6 DoF (xyz + Rotation) |
| Latency | Ultra-low |
| Accuracy | Sub-millimeter |
| Update Rate | Up to 120 Hz |
Principle of Operation
Hardware Components
| Component | Function |
|---|---|
| RedSpy Sensor | IR camera on the rig |
| IR Markers | Reflective reference points |
| Controller | Data processing |
| Software | Calibration and output |
Tracking Process
| Step | Description |
|---|---|
| Capture | Sensor detects IR markers |
| Calculation | Position from marker relation |
| Output | 6DoF data in real-time |
| Integration | To graphics engine/LED wall |
Application Areas
Broadcast
| Application | Description |
|---|---|
| Virtual Studios | Real-time graphics |
| Sports | AR overlays |
| News | Dynamic backgrounds |
| Shows | Extended Reality |
Virtual Production
| Application | Description |
|---|---|
| LED Volume | Perspective tracking |
| In-Camera VFX | Real-time compositing |
| Film | On-set visualization |
| Advertising | VP workflows |
Live Events
| Application | Description |
|---|---|
| Concerts | AR elements |
| Corporate | Virtual environments |
| Esports | Graphics integration |
Advantages of RedSpy
| Advantage | Description |
|---|---|
| Precision | Sub-millimeter accuracy |
| Speed | Minimal latency |
| Reliability | Proven technology |
| Flexibility | Various setup sizes |
| Support | Worldwide network |
Comparison with Competitors
| Aspect | RedSpy | Mo-Sys StarTracker | Ncam |
|---|---|---|---|
| Principle | Optical | Optical (Ceiling) | Optical (Markers) |
| Focus | Broadcast/VP | VP/Film | Film/VP |
| Distribution | Global | Global | Global |
| Setup | Markers in the room | Ceiling markers | Markers on set |
Software Integration
| System | Integration |
|---|---|
| Unreal Engine | LiveLink |
| Vizrt | Native |
| Disguise | Full |
| Ross Video | Supported |
| Zero Density | Native |
Workflow
Installation
| Step | Description |
|---|---|
| Marker Placement | Position IR markers |
| Calibration | Measure the system |
| Software Setup | Configure integration |
| Test | Verify tracking |
Daily Operation
| Phase | Activity |
|---|---|
| Power On | System starts quickly |
| Check | Verify calibration |
| Production | Tracking runs |
| Adjustment | If needed |
Cost
| Item | Approximate Cost |
|---|---|
| RedSpy System | €20,000–€40,000 (Purchase) |
| Installation | €5,000–€10,000 |
| Daily Rental | €1,000–€2,500/day |
| With VP Setup | Part of the package |
The Legacy
History
- Stype has been developing tracking since the 2000s
- RedSpy established as flagship
- Worldwide in broadcast and VP
Influence
RedSpy has democratized precise camera tracking in broadcast – from major networks to regional broadcasters.
Today
| Aspect | Details |
|---|---|
| Frequency | Worldwide in studios |
| Status | Established standard |
| Competition | Mo-Sys, Ncam |
| Trend | Growth with VP |
Modern Development
With the expansion of Virtual Production and XR productions, the demand for reliable tracking is growing – RedSpy is a proven choice.