Blackmagic Design Spares - ATEM Constellation 8K - NKK Labels

The Blackmagic Design Spares - ATEM Constellation 8K - NKK Labels are the high-contrast, translucent film inserts designed specifically for the front-panel control buttons. The Constellation 8K uses high-quality NKK-style switches, which feature a removable clear lens designed to house these specific identification tags.

Because the Constellation 8K is a "Swiss Army Knife" of a switcher, these labels are vital for identifying which of the 40 inputs or various Aux outputs you are currently monitoring or adjusting from the front panel.

What’s Included in a Label Set

• Source Identifiers: Pre-printed film for inputs (CAM 1–40), Media Players (MP 1–4), and Clean Feeds.

• Function Labels: Tags for menu navigation like "MENU," "SET," "LOCK," and "VIDEO."

• Aux/Output Indicators: Labels for managing the 24 12G-SDI outputs.

• Blank Inserts: Often included for custom studio needs, allowing you to write or print specialized source names (e.g., "DRONE," "SAT," "VARS").

When to Replace the NKK Labels

• Fading or Discoloration: Constant exposure to the internal LEDs' heat can cause the black ink to fade or the clear film to turn yellow/amber, reducing legibility.

• Studio Rebranding: When changing your camera plot (e.g., moving from "CAM 1" to "GOPRO"), you need to update the physical interface to match your workflow.

• Lost Lenses/Inserts: If a clear NKK lens cap pops off during transport and the tiny film insert is lost, you'll need the spare set to restore the button's identity.

• Peeling or Bubbling: If moisture (or heavy cleaning spray) has seeped under the lens, the label may bubble or warp, creating shadows when the button is backlit.

Installation Guide (The "NKK Method")

Repair Level: 1 (Very Simple).

1. Cap Removal: Use a dedicated NKK cap extractor tool or a pair of thin, non-marring plastic tweezers. Grasp the edges of the clear square cap and pull perfectly straight out. Do not pry from one side, as you risk snapping the tiny retention clips on the switch base.

2. Label Placement: Place the film insert inside the clear cap. Ensure it is oriented correctly—if it's upside down, the text will be mirrored when looking at the panel.

3. The Diffuser: Most NKK caps have a white "diffuser" plate behind the label. Make sure the stack is: Lens → Label → Diffuser.

4. Reseating: Align the cap with the switch body and press firmly until you hear a distinct click. The button should feel springy and not "catch" on the edges of the front panel.

Customizing Your Labels

If the standard spare set doesn't have the specific names you need for your 8K production:

• The "Transparency" Trick: You can print your own using Laser Transparency Film.

• The Dimensions: For NKK standard small caps, labels are typically 12mm x 12mm.

• The "Invert" Secret: Professional labels use white text on a black background. When you print your own, invert the image so the "black" area blocks the LED light, and only the "white" text glows.

Diagnostic: Label vs. LED

• If the text is blurry: The label is likely warped or the white diffuser plate is missing.

• If the button is dark: The label is fine, but the Front PCB or the integrated LED on the NKK switch has failed.

• If the button is "sticky": Remove the cap and clean the outer edges with 99% Isopropyl Alcohol. Dust or soda residue often builds up in the gap between the cap and the aluminum faceplate.

Are you looking for the standard "CAM 1-40" set, or do you need the specific "Menu/Set" function labels for the control section?