Channel Layout
Channels are numbered 1–10 and can be renamed by hub admins/owners. Common setups for film production:
| Channel | Common Name | Department |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | All Call | Everyone |
| 2 | Camera | Camera operators, AC |
| 3 | Grip/Electric | Grip, lighting |
| 4 | Sound | Audio department |
| 5 | Art | Art, props, set dec |
| 6 | Hair/Makeup | HMU, wardrobe |
| 7 | Transport | Drivers, logistics |
| 8 | Producer | Producers, clients |
| 9 | Emergency | Reserved for urgent |
| 10 | Open | Flexible use |
Switching Channels
There are two ways to switch channels:
Channel Selector (Tap)
Tap the channel selector button at the top of the PTT screen (it shows your current channel name). A grid modal opens showing all 10 channels. Tap any channel to switch instantly.
The modal shows:
- Channel number and name
- Your current channel (highlighted)
- Restricted channels (if any are restricted for you)
Channel Dial (Long-Press + Drag)
For fast, one-handed switching without looking at the screen:
Long-Press (300ms)
Press and hold the channel selector button. After 300ms, the circular channel dial appears.
Drag Up or Down
Without lifting your finger, drag up or down to rotate through channels. Each channel is positioned at 36° intervals around the circle.
Feel the Haptics
As you pass each channel, you'll feel a haptic tap confirming the transition. The channel name updates in real time.
Release
Lift your finger to confirm the selection. Your PTT and audio connection switch to the new channel.
The channel dial is designed for experienced users who want to switch channels by feel — like tuning a radio dial. After a few uses, you'll develop muscle memory for your most-used channels.
What Happens When You Switch
When you switch channels:
- Audio switches instantly — You start hearing (and can transmit on) the new channel
- The relay server is notified — A channel-switch message is sent over TCP
- Your presence updates — Other members see your channel indicator change
- Monitored channels continue — If you're monitoring other channels, those keep playing
Channel Restrictions
Hub admins can restrict specific members from accessing certain channels. If a channel is restricted for you:
- It appears grayed out in the channel selector
- You cannot switch to it
- You won't hear audio from it (even if monitoring is enabled)
See Channel Restrictions for details on setting these up.
Tips for Channel Organization
- Keep Channel 1 as "All Call" — A universal channel everyone monitors
- Group by department — Match your production's department structure
- Use Channel 9 for emergencies — Keep one channel reserved for urgent communication
- Rename channels before the shoot — Clear names help crew members find the right channel immediately