MDR, based in Leipzig, is a member of the ARD public service broadcasting organization. BFE had previously been tasked with the full implementation of MDR television in central Leipzig, installing two playout automation systems. A new multichannel playout automation system was used to replace the existing playout automation system as part of a new project. BFE was commissioned again following an EU invitation to tender.
Task:
The multichannel playout automation had to operate continuously in HD format. In addition, the execution of the MDR supporting program and the various small regional programs had to be guaranteed at the same time. As a general contractor, BFE prepared a specifications sheet with the relevant specifications for the automation and control system. In addition, BFE took on the responsibility for cabling and installing the new hardware along with integrating all components into the MDR production network and in the audio/video infrastructure. During this process, the current transmission mode needed to run without interruption.
Solution:
The project involved switching from tape-based playout automation to a completely tapeless, file-based process. To achieve this, BFE worked with the manufacturing company Aveco to develop the workflows and implement program processing.
All specification and interface documents were compiled by BFE. BFE took on the detailed overall planning, installation and configuration of the apparatus and set up the connection to the MDR production network.
Highlights:
A new interface to the central automation system that operates all relevant apparatus was developed for the planning tool
The second essential control element in the overall system is the redundant routing matrix controller, BFE KSC Commander
An Aveco ASTRA system was used as a central automation system
Two continuity switchers were integrated into the SAW overall system
In the event of an emergency, an integrated hardware panel that can be connected via a network with every switcher will be used
The entire tapeless operation is processed using a video server system from Omneon
All furniture used came from the BFE NewLine furniture system and was designed and manufactured entirely at the BFE headquarters in Mainz
Installation details:
Aveco Astra automation system with redesigned surfaces
BFE KSC Commander routing matrix controller system
Miranda Imagestore IS-750 continuity switcher
Omneon Spectrum video server with 40 I/O ports
Chyron HyperX 3.1 font generator
Snell IQ-series glue products
Evertz MVP multiviewer
Tektronix WFM8300 measuring devices
BFE NewLine furniture system
Technology:
Ingest Omneon MediaGrid interface memory file
Ingest Omneon Spectrum video server
Omneon Spectrum video server processing and playout
Arveto CMS 3.0 media asset management system
Aveco ASTRA automation system
Albrecht VPS inserter
Miranda IS750 video mixer
Miranda LGK logo generators
Ingest VTR XDCAM/Digibeta
Playout MAZ XDCAM/Digibeta
Chyron HyperX graphics system
GVG Trinix LKS router
BFE KSC Commander
BFE Countdown
Snell UDC format converter
GVG Trinix transmission router
Jünger AC3 encoder
Exchange server (playlists/media files)
Max.it PSPL planning system