Article Overview

IBC 2012 - A Focus on TV Live Production

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Axon - BMS - Broadcast Solutions - BTS - Canon - Chyron - Clear-Com - EVS - Fujifilm - Grass Valley - Hitachi - Ikegami - Lawo - LiveU - LMP - Megahertz - NAC - NewTek - Orad - Riedel - RTS - Sennheiser - Snell - Sony - SSL - Stagetec - TSL - Vizrt - Yamaha

Axon Highlights Need for Intelligent Glue in Modern Broadcast Workflows

At IBC, Axon will highlight the increasingly important role that modular core processing technology plays within modern broadcast workflows, which are characterised as multivendor systems where third party interoperability and some form of unified control mechanism is essential. Within this environment the way in which the various third party system components ‘glue’ together and are controlled and monitored is critical to the success of the overall workflow. Axon’s Synapse modular signal monitoring and processing system includes over 350 discrete devices which have been developed to support a broadcaster’s ingest, outgest, distribution and transmission chains. Critically, Axon’s Cortex monitoring and control system has been developed with the aim of collecting and collating system information and providing operational staff with a meaningful picture of the operational status of the entire system, including the widest range of third party devices.

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BMS Shows the Complete Range of Wireless Video Technologies and Solutions

BMS is the leader in compact video transmission systems and produces a full line of analog and digital portable and fixed transmitters, receivers, and accessories operating up to 15GHz and adhering to the DVB-T standard.  Microwave systems include wireless RF camera links, air-to ground video and data links, point-to-point video and data links, auto-tracking ground antenna systems, relay systems, and portable microwave links. BMS Wireless Adapter for the Sony HDC-2500    copyrighted by liveProduction.tv BMS Wireless Adapter for the Sony HDC-2500 One of the highlights was the wireless adapter for the Sony HDC-2500 camera. The wireless system is integrated in the standard side cover of the camera and is available within 2012. The integration of the BMS application was also demonstrated at the Sony booth.

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Broadcast Solutions: Live! Edit! News!

As a main contractor Broadcast Solutions act as a partner from the first idea of the design to the realization of the entire project. From interior fitting, power system, airconsystem, audio-, video and network systems, up to satcom systems, Broadcast Solutions has the specialists to realize any projects. In the recent years, Broadcast Solutions GmbH has implemented more than 100 OB-vans and several studio installations, as well as fixed up- and downlink stations. A new DSNG concept from Broadcast Solutions S-DSNG Series was on show. This version gives you two Broadcast cameras, an Avid editing Suite with 2 Live Ingest channels and a fully redundant completely self-aligning Satcom system. All this is achieved within the 3,5t weight limitation, including 4 operators and the necessary production equipment!

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BTS: OBVan 555

BTS broadcast technology solutions, Weiterstadt, as the system integrator with the longest tradition – constructor of the world’s first OB van in 1934 and technology leader since then – is specialized in indoor production facilities as well as in outdoor activities, developing and constructing studios, OB Vans and Appliance Trucks. The company has developed a range of unique solutions, many of them patented, to enable the most efficient performance. BTS broadcast technology solutions has been established as an independent solution provider based on the former Grass Valley System Integration division which itself had its roots in the former BTS group, the post-war revival of Fernseh AG. Hundreds of potential clients visited the OB van exhibited at IBC and were impressed by the skills of the BTS staff and the advanced technologies inside the van. It was the record breaking OB van number 555 since the re-start of the company in 1951.

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Canon Introduces Flagship HD Pan-Tilt Camera

Features that help meet the industry’s highest standards: The new Canon BU-47H provides Full HD (1920x1080) through three CMOS sensors and a total pixel count of 2.37 megapixels. Its Canon HD zoom lens offers 18x optical zooming and AF function with a focal length of 4.1 to 73.8 mm, approximately 7.4mm to 134 mm (2/3” equivalent). A minimum subject brightness of 0.08 lux enables shooting at brightness levels equivalent to moonlight (0.5 to 1 lux). For the professional, finely-graded video and picture quality settings can be adjusted by operating the OP knob. A brand new feature offers an adjustment alternative through an ECU function (only OP-450/U-4 protocol) which include: Gamma, black gamma, master pedestal, knee, setup, 100% clipping, sharpness level, sharpness horizontal band, sharpness HV balance, sharpness limits, sharpness select, knee aperture, luminance-adaptive sharpness, coring level, luminance-adaptive coring, noise reduction, skin detail, selective noise reduction, low-key saturation, colour matrix, colour gain, hue, white balance, colour correction.

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New ChyronIP Solution Brings Power of Chyron Graphics to NewTek TriCaster

Chyron announced the release of ChyronIP, a real-time HD/SD 2D and 3D character and graphics generator that brings the company's acclaimed full-motion, data-driven 3D graphics to NewTek TriCaster live production systems for the first time. Loaded with all of the features and functions offered by Chyron's Lyric™ PRO software, ChyronIP delivers key and fill signals via the TriCaster network interface, which gives producers two full HD or SD live full-motion channels of Chyron graphics without tying up any of the TriCaster's video inputs. Ideal for sports, news, entertainment, and any other live production, ChyronIP allows TriCaster users to employ the same type of high-impact graphics typical of premier sports and entertainment broadcasts. Because graphics data is delivered via a network connection, broadcasters can take advantage of ChyronIP for TriCaster without giving up any of the needed camera inputs that also are critical to live production.

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Clear-Com Introduces Eclipse HX

The Eclipse HX systems, comprising the Eclipse HX-Omega, Eclipse HX-Median and Eclipse HX-PiCo, as well as the EHX software, are based on the original, powerful and comprehensive Eclipse digital matrix platform. All retain the legacy platform’s unique integration capabilities. Additionally, Clear-Com’s V-Series panels, frame cards and interfaces are compatible with the new Eclipse HX range, providing a seamless logical upgrade path for existing Eclipse customers. What sets Eclipse HX apart from the original Eclipse line are improvements in the software architecture, user interface and system capacity.

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EVS: XT3/XS servers - the first to offer triple encoding

From 2013, media recorded on EVS’ XT3 and XS video servers will be immediately available in three different formats:
·    I-Frame codecs for live editing, requiring frame accuracy
·    Long-GOP encoding with Sony XDCAM HD422 at 50Mbps for optimised media sharing
·    Proxy-generated files for augmented connectivity and control during production operations (including bidirectional productions)
The EVS servers will be the first in the market to offer this triple encoding capability. Be among the first to learn all about it during you visit to our stand.
C-Cast, EVS’ second screen media delivery platform, was successfully deployed for one of this summer’s major sporting events. The EVS technology that allows viewers to gain access to exclusive and complementary content during live broadcasts via their tablets and smartphones, also kicked off the new season of one of Europe’s top-tier football leagues.

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Fujifilm Europe @ IBC 2012

The XA77x9.5BESM is perfectly suited for mobile vans, in stadiums, for sporting events and large arenas, where a HD tele-photo lens would be beneficial in capturing detail and close up images from far distances. It features Fujinon’s patented OS TECH image stabilisation; the unique advanced diagnostic FIND System (Focused Intelligent Network Diagnosis) for quick service checks after long shootings; dustproof and anti-fogging technology; 16-bit optical encoding output for high positioning accuracy in virtual environments; an advanced back focus system allowing very close macro shootings and also fading in and out for more creativity. All this comes at a very attractive price point. Among others, Fujifilm was also  displaying the best-seller HA42x9.7BERD, the barrel style long tele-photo lens ideal for sports and documentaries, the HA14x4.5BERD super wide angle lens and the well established HA23x7.6BERD ENG style tele-photo lens.

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Live Production with Grass Valley

LDX Series of Cameras: Grass Valley announced the launch of the LDX Series™ of camera systems. The LDX Series — initially consisting of the LDX Première™, LDX Elite™, and LDX WorldCam™ — signifies the next step in image acquisition. With uncompromised performance in 1080p50/60, full compatibility with Grass Valley's line of 3G Transmission solutions and stunning 1080p/1080i/720p images, the LDX Series is the industry’s most advanced range of cameras. The LDX Series is based on three completely new, state-of-the-art, third-generation CMOS imagers – Grass Valley’s Xensium-FT™. The LDX Series boasts an ergonomic design with time saving features such as improved color management and automated controls, allowing operators to concentrate on creativity.

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Hitachi Targets Increased Share in European Broadcast System Camera Market

Amongst the new Hitachi cameras making their European debuts at IBC 2012 will be the SK-HD1500 super slow motion camera, and the 16-bit SK-HD1200 1080P/3G production camera which will be shown working in combination with LGZ’s Just Replay Server system. Hitachi will also showcase a number of production cameras that have been specifically developed for different broadcast applications from wireless operation to Fiber system, P.O.V. and goal-mouth cameras. “Since the days of anti-dumping levies, Hitachi has been a sleeping giant within the broadcast system camera market but at IBC 2012 visitors will witness the start of a new era in our company’s development,” stated Paddy Roache, Director and General Manager of Hitachi Kokusai Electric Europe. “A major broadcast camera research and development initiative is starting to pay rich dividends, many of which will be on show for the first time in Amsterdam. Alongside which, we will announce a strategic marketing initiative and a development roadmap that will position us in the vanguard of this dynamic technology sector.”

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Ikegami: Multiformat Studio Cameras and Ultra SloMo Camera System

Leading off Ikegami's IBC 2012 exhibit was the new Unicam HD camera line. These multi format HD cameras – which also provide 3G-SDI 1080/50p performance – include the new HDK-97A 16-bit portable HD companion-camera that supports not only 1080i/720p, but also 3G signals such as 1080/50p 4:2:2 and 1080/50i 4:4:4. The HDK-97A employs advanced new progressive AIT CCD imagers and an all-new digital video processing system for superior picture detail and accurate rendition of color gradations. Delivering a choice of 1080/50p 4:2:2 or 1080/50i 4:4:4 color sampling, the new high bit-depth HDK-97A is designed for traditional-style multi-camera production applications. A docking-style camera, the new HDK-97A also features a 3G fiber-transmission system from the camera head to its (also new) CCU. Transmission options include an HD-SDI QTV signal for teleprompter (or vanity/program monitor) use and an HD-SDI "trunk channel" that allows for connection of a second camera that doesn't have its own built-in fiber transmission system (such as a POV camera, including one paired with the HDK-97A in a stereoscopic 3-D application).

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Lawo to Debut Second Generation mc²56 Production Console

Among the mc²56’s new features is real, 2-man operation with fully decentralized control of all parameters including bank and layer selection, EQ, dynamics and bus assignment—due in no small part to the console’s fully featured ISO bay access provisions. The new mc²56 now offers improved ergonomic and intuitive handling, providing operators greater confidence when working under pressure. As part of the mc²56’s enhanced functionality, the new console also provides expanded, simplified touch operation—making workflow more intuitive. This applies to operational aspects such as VCA allocation, bus assignment, meter pickup/mode select, and mix-minus configuration. This enhanced operation is further accentuated by the console’s new button-glow provisions for color-coding the channel strips. Similarly, the new mc²56 provides Illuminated rotary knobs for an even better overview—all of which makes it easier for the operator to visually keep track of one’s mix—even in low light conditions.

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LiveU Uses TriCaster to Offer Integrated Live Video Streaming & Production

With NewTek TriCaster systems, corporations, musicians, producers, bloggers, agencies, anyone in the live entertainment industry, can reach new audiences, interact more closely with fans and generate new revenue opportunities. They can produce HD network-style productions of their live performances, from a cart in the front-of-house, a desktop backstage, or a studio control room rack. TriCaster provides the ability to switch between multiple cameras, inputs and recorded clips while simultaneously delivering live content to broadcast television, LED screens and projectors, the Web and mobile devices. The new line of TriCasters presented at IBC on NewTek’s stand and used in LiveU’s studio for the daily live show, gives producers all the tools to create more shows, with more creative capabilities, publish to more destinations and reach more viewers. LiveU demonstrated both its LU70 backpack and LU40i handheld device for live video transmission at IBC.  LiveU’s LU70 is the industry standard for bonded 3G/4G LTE backpacks with proprietary RF technology for superior resiliency, up to 1080 HD video and sub-second latency for a satellite-like experience.

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Unveiling the Future of Miniature Cameras...

Based on the successful HD1200 camera system, the modular CERBERUS system combines three 2/3“ sensors using the identical processing hardware, making the camera heads interchangeable. Focussing on the individual advantages of different sensor types, the CERBERUS system inhabits the familiar CERBERUS HD1200 head with a rolling shutter CMOS sensor, the brand new CERBERUS CMOS head with global shutter and frame rates up to 240fps, and the CERBERUS CCD head with an unseen CCD sensor with global shutter. Although each of the camera heads inhabits several individual features, the successful signal processing algorithms of our well introduced HD1200 camera system form the fundamental basis of the Cerberus camera system. Combining an outstanding number of simultaneous live outputs, such as RAW, HDSDI and analog component, with the familiar camera control workflow, the CERBERUS system perfectly adapts to your specific needs.

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Megahertz Showcases New Astro HD OB Truck at IBC

The Malaysian broadcaster’s vehicle is the latest in the company’s HD OB fleet to come off the Megahertz production line in Ely, UK. This vehicle follows closely behind the delivery of the first OB trailer earlier this year and supports Astro's plans to migrate its mobile operations to HD. Astro broadcasts 156 channels, of which 22 are in HD, is a leading edge innovator with its introduction of HD, 3D and PVR – a first in Malaysia, and also Video-On-Demand, Over-the-top content and IPTV service. It is the leading aggregator, creator and distributor of original multi-language content of various genres across multi-channels. "These latest vehicles from Megahertz have matched the quality and performance and we’re thrilled with the results, says Dennis Dovale, operations manager, Astro Productions.

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Hi-Motion II with Flicker Suppression and Wireless Link

NAC Image Technology has successfully implemented the world’s first real time flicker suppression system for ultra slow motion broadcast HDTV camera systems. NAC’s Hi-Motion II™ is the only ultra slow motion camera system available that allows the operator to adjust the camera “on the fly” during a live broadcast, mitigating and greatly reducing the flicker effect caused by stadium lighting.
Broadcast Sports, Inc. (BSI) a leading developer and service provider of wireless camera, audio and communication systems has partnered with NAC of Japan to develop RF links for NAC's high speed video camera. This engineering achievement from BSI means that, for the first time, the high speed NAC equipment can be used without cables, and directors can place it anywhere where there is RF coverage at an event.

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Live from IBC 2012

New technologies have emerged that have pushed live production in a next generation. Viewers' demands and expectations have evolved. Content distribution is being widened to a large selection of second screens. Multiplying broadcasting destinations has become a fact and a necessity for video producers. The new line of TriCasters gives professionals the tools to create more content, with more creative possibilities, to publish to more destinations and therefore to reach more viewers. The new line of TriCasters includes a large range of standard features, such as Apple® AirPlay® support and NewTek’s IsoCorder™ multi-track recording technology. It includes support for virtually every non-linear editing application for both the Mac® and PC, without the need for transcoding. The effects implemented in the new TriCaster series offer real-time warping that makes it possible to fly video away on a cloth-like surface, or integrate warping video into transitions in limitless ways, with sound. TriCaster effects are further enhanced with the innovative TransWarp engine, which provides the ability to build warping transitions for every visual source, including overlays.

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Orad to Showcase Powerful New Broadcast Graphics and Video Server Solutions

NEW TD Control: Designed for technical directors/switcher operators, TD Control streamlines video box production workflows by consolidating video sources and graphics, delivering a single composited image to the switcher. The breakthrough TD Control technology provides tremendous flexibility, including the ability to switch, while on air, from six video sources to six completely different video sources with one click of a button. Users have access to an assortment of video box layouts as well as the ability to create their own video box layouts and store them as a preset for fast recall.
PlayMaker: PlayMaker, Orad’s next generation sports replay server, provides up to eight I/O channels of high quality ingest in multiple video formats, with synchronized slow motion replay, and powerful yet simple editing tools. PlayMaker facilitates file sharing between multiple servers and instant file export to Avid, FCP, Adobe Premiere, and other NLEs via standard Ethernet. New features for IBC include: enhanced events tagging and support for Avid’s DNxHD codec and cyclic recording.

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Riedel MediorNet to Provide Grass Valley Camera Integration

The new MediorNet MN-GV-2 card allows the user to network Grass Valley 3G camera systems and base station including the LDK and the brand new LDX series via MediorNet. This provides a solution for routing bi-directional camera signals including all embedded audio and telemetry control data through the MediorNet fiber infrastructure. MediorNet’s network approach allows the free assignment of cameras to any Base Station / CCU within the network, providing unparalleled flexibility in set-ups and eliminating the need for re-wiring when production configurations change. In addition, the network’s point-to-multipoint capability allows a camera video signal to be routed to several outputs. Ultimately, the Grass Valley camera system becomes an integrated part of the MediorNet backbone solution for signal distribution streamlining production scenarios, sports broadcasting applications and fixed installations.

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RTS Draws a Positive Balance from Successful IBC

With its VLink (virtual linked intercom) software, RTS was presenting a DHCP-based communication solution for RTS intercom systems that can be implemented on numerous mobile terminal devices. The software grants remote users access from any geographical location to an RTS intercom matrix. VLink offers a multitude of flexible control possibilities and supports the session initiation protocol (SIP) for expanded connectivity. n addition, RTS was showing the “V3R-FX-INTERCOM for RTS” and the “X6R-FX-INTERCOM for RTS” – the first glass-fibre interfaces for RTS systems developed by RTS’s certified partner Optocore. These devices offer users communication between RTS keypanels and matrices that is virtually unlimited in geographical terms as well as being interference-free. Both interfaces are compatible not only with all RTS but also with all Optocore devices.

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Sennheiser Launched Digital 9000 System at IBC

At IBC 2012 Sennheiser has unveiled Digital 9000, a digital wireless system that can transmit completely uncompressed audio, artefact-free and with superb dynamics. Targeting broadcasting professionals, (musical) theatres and high-profile live audio events, Digital 9000 sets a new benchmark in digital wireless transmission. The system, which includes the EM 9046 receiver, SKM 9000 handheld and SK 9000 bodypack transmitters, and a comprehensive suite of accessories, has been meticulously designed for the highest channel counts in today’s increasingly dense frequency environment. The ground-breaking digital wireless system is fitted with two transmission modes to suit any need and environment. The High Definition (HD) mode will transmit entirely uncompressed, artefact-free audio, as if a high-quality cabled microphone were used. The Long Range (LR) mode has been designed for difficult transmission environments with many sources of interference. It ensures maximum range with a proprietary Sennheiser digital audio codec.

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Live Production with Snell

Today's newsrooms, studios, and OB trucks operate at a faster pace than ever before while simultaneously supporting a variety of production and format demands such as SD, HD, 1080p, and 3D. On display at IBC2012 will be the new compact Kahuna 360 production switcher, which makes the revolutionary technology, massive power, and unmatched flexibility of Snell's Kahuna suitable for an even wider range of applications. The new lower-cost Kahuna 360 Compact advanced production switcher offers the functionality of the popular full-size Kahuna 360, including seven keyers per M/E, resource sharing with Make M/E technology, and FormatFusion3, which supports any format in and any format out. The compact and cost-effective 6U chassis gives users the ability to support SD, HD, and 1080p (single link) functionality for a smooth and cost-effective migration from HD to 1080p and ensures Snell's award-winning production switcher technology is accessible to an even wider audience. Easy to deploy and equipped with the familiar Kahuna interface, Kahuna 360 Compact is ideal for trucks, studio-based productions, and houses of worship.

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Sony Helps to Overcome the Complex Challenges of Live Production

Compact and well-designed, the new multi-format production switcher MVS-3000 delivers the high performance, functionality and stability of the MVS series. It is ideally suited for production studios, stadiums, houses of worship, and OB vehicles requiring multiple inputs in a limited space. The MVS-3000 comes with sophisticated capabilities such as two mix effects (M/Es), four keyers per M/E, each with the MVS high-performance chromakey, 2.5D resizers, colour correction, and more. The self-contained 4RU processor with dual multi-viewer output that splits into 4 frames or 10 frames offers simple configuration, and is a logical choice for small production facilities that have limited installation space but refuse to compromise on quality. This switcher inherits an array of characteristics and features from the well-established MVS switcher series, amassed from a decade of experience. The MVS-3000 utilises the latest technologies such as a newly developed image processor, internal 2.5D digital multi-effects (resizer engine), clip transition effects, side flags and internal format convertor. It can cater for production needs starting at 32 inputs / 16 outputs 2ME.

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SSL Features "Live-Recorder"

Live-Recorder is designed for situations where a robust and reliable high-channel-count Recorder/Player is required in a live performance environment. It is ideal for live music recording from front of house consoles at live shows, in broadcast production studios and location recording vehicles. Live-Recorder is also an excellent solution for live performance playback of studio recorded multi-tracks. Unlike any other solution, Live-Recorder exports/imports directly to/from Pro Tools™ .ptf, Apple™ XML and Steinberg™ XML project formats. System connectivity is via standard optical MADI so can connect over long distances directly to any MADI equipped Digital Mixing Consoles, Venue Audio Distribution infrastructure (Riedel, Optocore etc) or Routers. Live-Recorder systems can capture up to 128 Channels @ 24bit/48kHz or 64 Channels @ 24bit/96kHz.

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New POLARIS Variant Integrates with NEXUS DSP

The new POLARIS touch XCMC combines the innovative user interface of the POLARIS touch with the audio signal processing capabilities of long-established NEXUS audio network and routing system. All audio processing is done on the XCMC console card thus taking advantage of the ultra-low NEXUS latency and providing a consistent signal flow without the need for format converting. Of course, all other advantages of POLARIS touch remain the same: The extremely user-friendly and responsive touch surface, the flexibility thanks to the modular concept with independent CPU’s for each module as well as the smooth integration with SALZBRENNER STAGETEC MediaControl for advanced control options such as lighting control, intercom systems, playback devices and stage-management functions.

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TSL Introduces new Tallyman

Designed to simplify the control interface, the TallyMan Control Panel provides a common workflow for engineering operators, with the added capability of addressing nearly limitless numbers of routers and control units through a tactile and easy-to-install panel. The panel comes in 16-button and 32-button versions. The TallyMan Control Panel was designed to provide a cost-effective alternative to virtual control systems, representing a tactile alternative to the TallyMan Virtual Panel system. The 16- and 32-button versions provide fully configurable setup of colors, text and graphics with instant recall of pre-programmed settings. The unit interfaces with any third-party router, or router control panels, and can be easily integrated into existing infrastructures. Additionally, the system can handle any router upgrades or additions, obviating the need for a new tally interface, while preserving existing workflow.

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Vizrt Unveils Virtual SloMo Solution and Partners with Grass Valley

Vizrt Ltd. unveiled for the first time a solution to synthesize high-speed sports footage from standard-rate TV cameras. The image-based solution is running within Libero Highlight, Vizrt’s best-of-breed 3D sports analysis system. The Virtual SloMo effect can be applied to any available television camera feed and, hence, offers completely new flexibility to create high-speed, high-quality footage for sports replay and analysis, not only from your OB van, but also from your studio environment. At the same time, the integration of Libero Highlight with Grass Valley’s K2 Summit media server and K2 Dyno replay system was demoed for the first time at IBC. The full integration of the two systems allows generating the 3D analysis clips both in remote and studio productions, even if only a multi-lateral feed is available from an event. The Grass Valley K2 Summit® 3G media server combined with the K2 Dyno® replay system is a powerful, cost-effective video replay solution addressing the needs for replay control and highlight generation in file-based live productions.

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Yamaha Equipment Dominates IBC Conference Sessions

The audio technical infrastructure of the seminars is handled by Terry Nelson and Sean O’Dea. The Forum, IBC’s biggest space (after the Big Screen Auditorium), hosted a wide range of presentations and was where the convention’s keynote speech was delivered by high profile artist will.i.am. Here a Yamaha CL3 digital mixing console and RIO1608-D rackmount i/o unit were installed. Terry also put in an ambient surround system, which comprised six Yamaha IF2108, two IF3115/95, two IF2115M/64 and two IS1215 subs. Another busy space was Room E102, which featured a CL5 console with RIO3224-D i/o unit. Here two loudspeaker systems were installed, a speech system comprising two Yamaha DXR12s and a playback system of four DXR8, another DXR12 and two DXS15 subs. In Room G102, where high profile broadcast industry leaders were running workshops, a CL1 console with RIO1608-D, while the D-Cinema Auditorium featured two further DXR12s as active stage monitors for the conference presentations.

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