What are teleprompters made of? Teleprompters are generally composed of several key elements:
- Beam splitter mirror: Usually crafted from glass or acrylic, this transparent panel reflects the script toward the speaker while remaining invisible to the camera.
- Support frame: A sturdy structure that holds the mirror and other components in place.
- Display module: A screen that projects the text for the speaker to read.
- Control interface: Manages text speed and formatting for smooth delivery.
Additional accessories may include items like a tripod or lens hood for enhanced functionality.
This setup enables the speaker to read from the transparent screen while appearing to maintain direct eye contact with the camera. This creates the impression of speaking naturally to the audience.
Teleprompter glass: A transparent panel to reflect scripts toward the speakers
You may wonder how a teleprompter works. Teleprompter glass—often referred to as beamsplitter or two-way mirror glass—is a key component in teleprompter systems used across many settings. It is a unique material designed to reflect text in a way that's readable from one side while appearing invisible from the other.
What makes this glass remarkable is its dual nature: it reflects text clearly for the presenter while remaining unseen by the camera. But how exactly is this clever technology produced and treated to perform such a specialized role?
How it functions:
Material selection: Creating teleprompter beamsplitter glass is a detailed process that carefully balances transparency with reflectivity. It begins with the selection of a premium glass substrate—typically low-iron glass—to reduce any tint or color distortion. The glass is then precisely cut and polished to achieve a flawlessly smooth surface.
Coating of semi-reflective layer: The key transformation occurs during the coating stage. A thin film of semi-reflective material, often applied through vapor deposition, is layered onto the glass. This coating enables the glass to reflect and transmit light in just the right proportions. Achieving this effect demands exacting control over both the thickness and the composition of the applied material.
Anti-reflective coating: After the semi-reflective layer is applied, an anti-reflective (AR) coating is added to the front surface. This layer minimizes glare and eliminates distracting reflections, ensuring the text remains sharp and easy to read. At the same time, the back’s semi-reflective coating maintains the essential one-way visibility that allows the speaker to see the script without it being visible to the audience or camera.
Housing and structural frame: A study structure to hold the glass and other components in place
Beyond the beamsplitter glass, teleprompters are equipped with durable housings constructed from materials like lightweight aluminum or impact-resistant plastic. These enclosures not only safeguard the sensitive optical components but are also engineered to work effortlessly with camera rigs and tripod systems.
How it functions:
Material: The frame is typically constructed from lightweight materials such as aluminum or high-density, shock-resistant plastics. These materials offer the necessary durability without adding unnecessary weight. This is essential for long shooting sessions or mobile setups.
Design features: The housing features adjustable mounts and hinges that allow users to precisely adjust the angle of the beamsplitter concerning the camera. This ensures that the reflected text remains perfectly aligned with the speaker’s line of sight, regardless of shooting angle or lighting conditions. Some designs also include built-in hoods or additional screens to protect the beamsplitter from unwanted light. This ensures the text remains clear. Additionally, cable management systems are often incorporated into the housing to keep everything organized and minimize the risk of cables becoming accidentally detached.
Display module: A panel to present scrolling scripts
The display module serves as the core component of a teleprompter, tasked with presenting the scrolling script. Most modern setups rely on high-resolution LCD or LED panels. In more compact or budget-friendly teleprompters like Moman MT12, a tablet or similar device can serve as an alternative.
How it functions:
Brightness and clarity: The display needs to generate sharp, bright text. This is because it should ensure that when reflected off the beam-splitter mirror, the text stays legible, even in brightly lit broadcast environments.
Contrast and color accuracy: A high contrast ratio is crucial for making the text stand out against dark backgrounds, which helps reduce eye strain for the speaker.
Connectivity and control: Typically linked via HDMI or other digital ports, the display interfaces with a computer or media device running teleprompting software. This software manages text flow and formatting, allowing for seamless, real-time adjustments.
Build and materials: These screens are constructed using glass or plastic layers, often treated with anti-glare coatings. This minimizes reflections, helping preserve legibility through the beam splitter.
Control system: A physical remote or software to adjust scripts
Behind the hardware lies a control unit—either a physical remote or a software-based interface—that governs the scrolling speed and text formatting.
How it functions:
Scroll control: The operator or speaker can modify the scrolling speed in real time to match the pace of their speech. This adjustment can be made using foot pedals, handheld remotes, or built-in touchscreen controls.
Synchronization: Many systems allow synchronization with external triggers, such as sound levels or cues from the speaker, ensuring smooth progression of the content.
Software integration: Modern teleprompters typically run on software that offers extra features like text formatting, segmentation, and even voice recognition to adjust scrolling speed automatically. The control system interfaces with the display module, ensuring the text stays aligned and any changes are instantly applied.
