EBU/VRT: The world’s first full IP remote broadcast production

The remote production set-up was an extension of the full IP local studio set up that was previously demonstrated by the LiveIP project group. The concert venue (Bozar, in the centre of Brussels) was connected to the LiveIP control room (at VRT Brussels) by one single 10 km long optical fibre cable, carrying an IP network, much in the same way as the local studio of the LiveIP project is connected to the same control room. It took only 1 hour to set up the equipment at the concert venue, and the feedback from the VRT production team was overwhelmingly positive.

“The combination of CWDM technology and IP for broadcast allows us to transport approximatively 25 Gbit/s for all 4 IP cameras, 10 microphones, intercom, telepresence and controls over one optical fibre cable, without any delay.  This made our remote production so easy and transparent that you immediately forget that your program is being produced 10 km away from the stage upon which it takes place!” Said Karel DeBondt, Project Manager at VRT. “Most noticeable was the huge time-saving on the setup of the production. You basically connect your optical fibre and you’re good to go: video, audio, intercom, controls and internet are instantly available,”  he added.

LiveIP presents the industry an opportunity to learn in a real-life scenario – to test assumptions and demonstrate value. The group’s effort helps ensure future investments and provides much needed leadership to the industry through the IP transition.