Custom Consoles Media Wall Monitor-Scape for AP

Part of the Custom Consoles Media Wall display at AP’s newly built high-definition master control room in London

The Associated Press (AP) has chosen a large Custom Consoles ‘monitor-scape’ video display support system and Module-R desks for a new high-definition master control room at its global media hub in Camden, London. The Master Control Room (MCR) is the international hub of AP’s global video operation, serving client broadcasters on a round-the-clock basis every day of the year. The HD MCR project was co-ordinated by Letchworth-based systems integrator ATG Broadcast.

“AP’s operational requirements called for a monitor-scape occupying almost the entire front wall,” states ATG Broadcast’s Managing Director Graham Day. “Custom Consoles’ Media Wall support system formed an ideal basis for the design and construction of a structure that combined rigidity with the flexibility to add or remove individual displays over the course of the MCR’s operational lifespan.

“In line with modern broadcast monitor-wall design, the monitor-scape consists of multiple flat-panel LCD screens which are electronically subdivided into virtual monitor stacks allowing a large number of incoming or outgoing video channels to be viewed in parallel. Additional screens located in a horizontal row along the top of the Media Wall can be assigned as required.

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“A four-position Module-R desk is located in front of the monitor-scape, each position accommodating control and system-monitoring equipment. An additional Module-R desk is located near the centre of the MCR for use by the shift supervisor and, when required, an additional member of the operating team. As with Media Wall, the inherent modularity of Custom Consoles’ Module-R enabled us to taylor the desks to fit AP’s precise requirements without the cost of traditional bespoke furniture.”

Custom Consoles’ Media Wall is designed to accommodate large or small arrays of flat-panel monitors and ancillary equipment. Media Wall incorporates height-adjustable horizontal beams suspended between 2 metre high silver-anodised aluminium columns. Beams are available in 1,500, 2,000 and 2,500 millimetre widths and allow easy attachment of large and small panels using pivoting VESA and plasma-mount fittings. Horizontal cable trunking is provided at the rear of each beam and vertical trunking at the rear of each column, enabling easy and expandable housing of power and video wiring. Equipment pods with 19 inch racking behind removable vented panels can be accommodated at floor-level.

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About The AP
The Associated Press is the essential global news network, delivering fast, unbiased news from every corner of the world to all media platforms and formats. Founded in 1846, AP today is the largest and most trusted source of independent news and information. On any given day, more than half the world’s population sees news from AP.

About ATG Broadcast
ATG Broadcast is one of the world's most successful providers of high–end reliable and easy-to-operate integrated systems for broadcasters and programme makers alike. The company is part of the Dan Technologies Group which operates from offices in the United Kingdom, Germany, Denmark, Norway, Sweden, Vietnam and Dubai. ATG Broadcast's engineering skills extend from front-end studio systems to transmission-based systems for multiple deployment platforms. ATG Broadcast offers a comprehensive portfolio of services including workflow design, project planning, equipment installation, software configuration, commissioning, documentation and on-site training.

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About Custom Consoles
Founded in 1996, Custom Consoles Ltd is a UK-based independent manufacturer of broadcast, process-control and security furniture. The company operates from a 1,200 square metre production facility equipped with 3D computer-aided-design and computer-controlled cutting machinery. Custom Consoles has built its name in the development and manufacture of bespoke furniture for a client base that includes governmental and corporate organisations in Britain, mainland Europe and Asia. The product range includes motorised, manually-adjustable and fixed-height units plus fan-cooled sound-insulated equipment housings. Custom Consoles Ltd is active worldwide.