Zactrack
UWB radio tracking that follows performers automatically — from black-box theatre to arena scale.
What it is
Zactrack is an automated performer tracking system built on ultra-wideband radio: performers wear small tags, a network of anchors reads them, and the system streams position to lighting and other departments in real time at roughly 5 cm accuracy. Because it's radio rather than camera-based, it keeps tracking through haze, scenery, and crowd mass, and its tiers scale from theatre rigs to full arena tours.
How we work with it
We handle Zactrack integrations from spec to run: anchor topology and tracker assignment in pre-production, calibration strategy, console integration, and on-site programming through tech and previews. On concert-style shows we tune the tracking to ride the energy of the performance — fixtures locked to performers who never stand still — and we coordinate directly with wardrobe on tag placement and quick-change strategy.
Platform spec + anchor topology design
Tracker assignment, calibration, and drift management
Console integration (Eos / grandMA / Hog) via sACN or PSN
On-site programming through tech, previews, and run
Right when
- Performers move unpredictably in open space and fixtures need to follow without an operator chasing.
- Several performers need simultaneous tracking — a band, an ensemble, a comedy lineup that roams the stage.
- Sightlines are compromised by haze, scenery, or crowd — radio doesn't care what the camera can't see.
Look elsewhere when
- The movement is on automation — flying tracks, deck wagons — where the position data already exists and can be derived instead of sensed.
- The show needs a handful of operator-driven pickups rather than continuous tracking; an assisted followspot may serve better for less.
How accurate is Zactrack?
On the order of 5 cm in a well-designed anchor topology — accurate enough for tight followspot-style pickups. Anchor placement and calibration are where that accuracy is won or lost, which is why we treat both as design work, not setup chores.
Does Zactrack talk directly to lighting consoles?
Yes — it can feed sACN or PSN straight to the desk, or route through a translation layer like TAIT LightStrike when the show is merging multiple position sources.
What about costumes?
Tags live on bodies, so we work directly with costume designers and wardrobe teams on housing, mounting, and quick-change strategy — the technology should disappear into the silhouette of the show.