Project title: Zoom Q4n Handy Video Cameras

Project lead’s name: Laura Sheppard

Email: weavered@miamioh.edu

Telephone: 513‐529‐2299

Affiliation: LIB

Other project team members: Eric Weaver, Barry Zaslow

Brief description of project: Amos Music Library would like to add two high fidelity video cameras to our collection of circulating technology. We have had numerous requests for video cameras from our patrons; part of the driving force for increased demand is the growing trend of video‐based auditions for scholarships and graduate programs. The Q4n is the best option as it is a very new model from the trusted Zoom brand, performs well in variety of lighting and sound situations, records at professional‐grade 2.3k video resolution and 24‐bit / 96 kHz / up to 140db audio recording, adjustable microphones, and capacity for live‐streaming.

Does this project focus on graduate student education or graduate student life?: No

Describe the problem you are attempting to solve and your approach for solving that problem: At Amos we have had tremendous success circulating Zoom H2n Handy audio recorders and iQ5 iPhone mics; these devices are easy‐to‐use and record audio in excellent fidelity. We have not been able to meet the growing demand for high, quality video recording, however. The devices we have had we have found to be unreliable and of poor quality and therefore unsuitable for recording one‐time‐only performances and recitals, situations which require reliable technical performance. Typical digital camcorders understandably focus on video quality at the expense of audio quality, but those devices are ill‐suited for recording music performances. The Q4n was designed with exactly that in mind. We are also investigating the possibility of recording performances for preservation in a digital commons and live‐streaming of events, and these cameras would be essential assets in those projects.

The criteria state that technology fee projects should benefit students in innovative and/or significant ways. How would you describe the innovation and/or the significance of your project?: The Zoom Q4n debuted in early 2016 as a replacement and upgrade from the Q4 model. It is the latest technology available to serve our client needs for a reliable, high‐quality video/audio recorder. Their live‐streaming capacity helps us to utilize these camcorders in the most modern way possible.

How will you assess the project?: We will track and gauge the successfulness of the project by obtaining circulation statistics (as we do with our other circulating technology).

Have you applied for and/or received Tech Fee awards in past years?: Yes

Did you submit a final report?: Yes

What happens to the project in year 2 and beyond? Will there be any ongoing costs such as software or hardware maintenance, supplies, staffing, etc? How these will be funded?: No additional costs are anticipated. If successful other fund sources will be identified.

Hardware: Zoom Q4n Handy Video Camera (2), $600

Total Budget: $600