33 minute read
Hybrid and Multi-Cloud Practicality
Under the cloud umbrella are the familiar variations—public, private and hybrid clouds. The latter, hybrid, is an environment featuring a combination of both public cloud (e.g., AWS, Azure, Google, others) and private cloud.
By “private cloud,” we mean a “physical location” such as an on-prem data center, a “co-lo” type center, or a managed service dealing directly with users on a contractual basis. Many variations in private clouds exist. Facebook, for example, created its own private cloud for its infrastructure and does not utilize a public cloud to store its data. When scale, security or functional need dictate something outside the boundaries of a public, commercial cloud, users may turn to this privately controlled model.
With those basics defined, an emerging user trend is now developing. Certain specialties now command specifics that demand sets of capabilities that span more than a single service whether public or private cloud. While such a model might be classified as a hybrid cloud environment, there are places and applications where that traditional hybrid cloud implementation expands outside those classic dimensions. HYBRID PREVAILS
To place this into perspective—almost no one, today, relies exclusively on the public cloud for computing. Today, a hybrid cloud is categorized as a solution or environment in which applications are running in a combination of differing environments. Reasons include capabilities that cannot be supported exclusively in any public cloud—for example, the production of an entertainment program that demands services EXPERTISE at a venue that can’t be done in a Karl Paulsen virtual cloud platform (live sports clearly needs cameras, sound and human interaction). Hybrid models are here for the near term, yielding new opportunities to assemble other elements of the production using tools that heretofore were relegated mostly to large frame, custom hardware. Such development is going full speed, but it’s not clear when this will become mainstream. Thus, there are cloud service providers who are focusing on supporting such migrations using specialized capabilities (their own “secret sauce”) that set them apart from their competition.
MORE THAN ONE CLOUD
Enter a relatively newer approach to methodologies that promote multiple methods to reach the users’ goals. This relatively recent trend is referred to as “multi-cloud,” (Fig. 1)
Multi-cloud and hybrid cloud models refer to cloud deployments that integrate more than one cloud. Each differ in the kinds of cloud infrastructure they include (Fig. 2). For example, a hybrid cloud infrastructure blends two or more different types of clouds, while multicloud blends different clouds of similar type.
Multi-cloud, according to IBM, is “the use of cloud services from two or more vendors,” inferring two or more different public cloud vendors, yet that doesn’t necessarily mean
Fig. 2: Key differences between hybrid and multi-cloud showing pros and cons for each variation
only “public cloud” providers. The multicloud approach gives organizations increased flexibility to optimize performance, control costs, and in turn, leverage the “best of breed” cloud technologies available.
SERVICES TODAY
To set the framework, we need to examine where the technologies lie today. The three better-recognized “cloud services” include Infrastructure as a Service (IaaS), Platform as a Service (PaaS), and Software as a Service (SaaS). Each of these three services utilize some degree of “cloud computing,” usually contained within that cloud under specialties and services that the specific provider has optimized for their particular cloud infrastructure.
Each of the three services’ platforms employ what we refer to as “cloud computing.” By fundamental definition, cloud computing are those technologies that “make the cloud work.” More expanded descriptions include “a remote data center, which contains the (computing) resources that support those applications” and include physical (and virtual) servers, development tools and networking. Each of these services are provided in a cloud-like environment, i.e., “native cloud.”
Some definitions will include “via the internet” and others will describe cloud computing using a “network of remote servers” that are “hosted on the internet” for functionality, which includes “the management, processing and storing of data.” These remote data centers may be managed by a third-party cloud service provider (CSP) who then charges as a subscription-based service with on-demand billing. To the end user/subscriber, they are likely unaware of which services are provided on which cloud model, i.e., private or public.
COMPUTE OFFERINGS
Leading cloud providers, as well as cloud-solution providers (e.g., VMware), may participate in multi-cloud solutions for compute. Wrapped in the cloud compute structure is “infrastructure, development, data warehousing, cloud storage, disaster recovery/ business continuity” and more.
Cross cloud utilization is where this multicloud “best of breed” concept plays best. For example, artificial intelligence and machine learning may best be practiced in a cloud service environment specially tailored for these operations, given that the scale of servers and storage necessary for a large AI/ML deployment can be intensive. In this example model, deploying a multi-cloud model might involve data acquisition from one cloud provider and compute analytics that might best be served in another.
Benefits gained in this strategy may be realized in different ways by various organizations. Live event or studio production might best be served by vendor A while post production (transcoding, formatting, versioning) might be better served by vendor B. Allowing the user to choose cloud services from varying providers based on performance, function, costs, etc., is now a marketplace-driven agenda compared to past models where you went to a single provider for all those services wrapped into a package—and where you might find certain service capability limitations.
RISK, VULNERABILITY, LOSS
Other important rationale for the multicloud model include risk reduction, reduced vulnerability to losses in data, compromise, unplanned downtime or outages, and more. Additional operation strategies that can leverage multi-cloud include licensing, security, service-compatibility and alleviation of signing up with a single provider who can’t offer all the services under one umbrella.
Unfortunately, as all these cloud models grow, user/administrators have been facing what is referred to as “shadow-IT,” i.e., “you can’t protect what you can’t see.” The explosion of unsanctioned applications, software and devices is weighing heavily on the CIOs who must develop policies based upon the knowns. By limiting the services to a single solution, you could risk pushing the limits, which you can’t see, touch or know about until you arrive there and find “you just can’t do that here.”
Multi-cloud uses are still evolving. Full feature sets will require additional support and conduits to or from the variations. Inside the media and entertainment technology domains, efforts to establish best current practices for elements like multi-cloud— which requires ground-to-cloud and cloudto-ground (GCCG) parameters—are moving forward. Harmonization of how well one cloud provider’s services (e.g., software-defined networking for compressed signal production) versus another’s capabilities (e.g., in compilation and distribution) will allow users to experience opportunities in cloud-to-cloud services that can more easily react to the needs of the entire ecosystem. l
Karl Paulsen is chief technology officer at Diversified and a frequent contributor to TVTech in storage, IP, and cloud technologies. Contact him at kpaulsen@diversifiedus.com.
ARRI Alexa 35
The Alexa 35 is a 4K Super 35 camera that offers native 4K and 120 fps and features ARRI’s first new sensor in 12 years. The new sensor offers a number of technical advances that deliver 2.5 stops more dynamic range, better low light performance and richer colors. Alexa 35 measures 17 stops of dynamic range (exposure latitude), far more than any other digital cinema camera. It has 1.5 stops more in the highlights and one stop more in the shadows than previous Alexa cameras, while retaining the naturalistic film-like highlight roll-off.
Sophisticated stray-light suppression in the camera and lens mounts ensures that the full contrast range and character of each lens are captured by the sensor. Together, the increased dynamic range and stray light control make it easier to handle any lighting conditions on set, increase flexibility in post, and provide the best source for HDR projects.
z For additional information, visit
https://www.arri.com/en/camera-systems/cameras/alexa-35.
Tascam and Atomos now offer wireless Bluetooth synchronization for the Tascam Portacapture X8. With the addition of the optional Tascam AK-BT1 Bluetooth dongle for the Portacapture X8 and either the new Atomos CONNECT devices, AtomX SYNC or Ultrasync Blue timecode sync adapters, videographers and audio pros can now wirelessly synchronize the Portacapture X8’s 8-track recording capability using 192 kHz/32-bit float point recording technology with an array of video cameras, including DSLR and mirrorless models.
z For additional information, visit https://tascam.com/us.
SmallHD Action 5 Monitor
The Action 5 Monitor is a lightweight, 5-inch LCD touchscreen video monitor with exceptional brightness and ActionOS, a streamlined, version of SmallHD’s PageOS 4 software toolset.
The monitor is capable of 2,000 nits brightness, 1,000:1 contrast ratio, 1080p resolution, 440 PPI, Rec. 709 color and advanced software tools that have been simplified for one-touch functionality. It weighs in at 10 ounces, attaches via HDMI to almost any camera setup and comes with a combination battery plate supporting Sony L-Series or Canon LP-E6 batteries right out of the box. The HDMI I/O is adjacent to the power input on the left side of the monitor while the bottom, back and right sides all provide 1/4 inch–20 mounting points.
Marketron REV Campaign Analysis
Marketron’s REV Campaign Analysis for the Marketron REV sales growth platform for TV and radio sales professionals offers broadcasters a way to show agencies and local direct advertisers the delivery of linear campaigns. The post-campaign analysis occurs on the same platform used to propose and order campaigns.
The feature is available for free to all REV platform subscribers and is ready for use across North America. Broadcasters can analyze promise vs. performance of linear campaigns and sales teams can check a campaign’s current impressions compared to contracted impressions to see how the campaign is tracking in near-real time. REV is integrated with ratings providers Nielsen and Numeris.
z For additional information, visit www.marketron.com/marketronrev.
G&D PersonalWorkplaceController
G&D’s new PersonalWorkplace-Controller unites the best of multiviewing and KVM by allowing users to display, arrange and operate multiple sources on one monitor.
The new controller allows each user to design their own workstation and operate it with just one mouse and one keyboard. This is useful in critical environments, where it is important to keep an overview of all processes. Instead of having to use a separate monitor for each process, the PersonalWorkplace-Controller allows multiple video signals to be displayed on just one large monitor or multiple displays. This gives users the option of individually configuring their workspace with different computer sources.
z For additional information visit www.gdsys.com.
Litepanels Gemini 2x1 Hard RGBWW LED Panel
Litepanels has expanded its Gemini RGBWW LED panel range with the addition of the Gemini 2x1 Hard RGBWW LED Panel. The new panel delivers up to 23,000 lux @10 feet/3 meters of output from a lightweight, compact fixture and the double-size Gemini 2x1 Hard produces highly accurate full spectrum white light as well as RGB output and a range of creative cinematic effects.
It weighs just 25.3 pounds (11.5 kg), including yoke and integrated power supply, and has a maximum power draw of just 500W. Twice the size of its smaller sibling, Gemini 2x1 Hard produces an output that is seven times brighter than the Gemini 1x1 Hard, creating a large volume of punchy light that can be easily softened with a range of diffusers. z For additional information visit www.litepanels.com.
AVIWEST StreamHub V. 4.0
AVIWEST’s StreamHub V. 4.0 offers a new intuitive user interface for the receiver and IP distribution platform and is an integral workflow component of AVIWEST solutions, which include its flagship PRO460, the compact RACK400 and LiveGuest remote interview solution.
StreamHub offers broadcasters a scalable, tailored video solution for receiving, managing and sharing live streams from multiple mobile transmitters via a single interface. Its HTML5 UI helps video pros manage, monitor and control video transmissions through a unified view of all video feeds, including video thumbnails and transmission metrics. It’s available as a standalone hardware appliance (1RU) and can be deployed on any public or private cloud.
z For additional information visit www.aviwest.com.
Telestream Inspect 2110
Telestream’s Inspect 2110 is its latest IP video monitoring solution for SMPTE ST 2110 media networks. Using a monitoring-by-exception approach, Inspect 2110 enables facilities to manage the reliability of the hybrid SDI-over-IP and ST 2110 networks across their facilities.
The latest version offers a 180 Gbps bandwidth-capable solution and is now configurable based on bandwidth monitoring needs. It offers options that allow it to be tailored easily to specific applications in contribution monitoring, multiple-studio monitoring and live and production applications for monitoring multiple vehicles from a single location. New features include a high-performance platform, audio and video remote viewer, automatic detection of frozen and black frames and compliance measurements for loudness (CALM).
z For additional information visit www.telestream.net.
Seervision Suite and Canon PTZ Camera
Camera automaton software specialist Seervision has partnered with Canon to offer integration of the Seervision Suite and Canon PTZ cameras, making the video production automation solution part of its PTZ camera lineup.
Integration of the software suite with Canon robotic cameras automates live video productions and opens up use of cameras to a new users in live/hybrid events, education and corporate settings.
ARRI Orbiter Fresnel Lens
ARRI has announced the addition of the Orbiter Fresnel lens to its selection of Orbiter optics. Combined with Orbiter’s ARRI Spectra light engine, the highend optical system is suitable for cinematic application, broadcast studios, as well as theaters or live productions. The Orbiter Fresnel lens is an addition to the already existing Orbiter Open Face optics of 15°, 30°, and 60°. The lens is designed to create a precise light spot with a soft single shadow and delivers true Fresnel output with a real Gaussian field of light.
The light output of Orbiter with Fresnel lens is comparable to the ARRI L-Series L10 and True Blue ST2/3 with 2,000W Tungsten bulb. Fresnel lighting character works best with a large aperture and a wide zoom range. Despite its large aperture, the Orbiter Fresnel lens housing is compact (approx. 340 mm x 380 mm x 370 mm/13.4 inches x 15 inches x 14.6 inches) and lightweight (~4.5 kilograms/9.5 pounds). z For more information, visit www.arri.com/orbiter-fresnel.
WideOrbit WO Traffic v22
The latest release of WO Traffic, WideOrbit’s broadcast media ad sales and commercial operations platform, includes an automated addressable ad replacement solution for live streams. The WO Traffic solution enables a single playlist to be sent to both airtime (over the air) automation and streaming ad servers, with Spot and Material level data. Broadcast spots on the live stream can either achieve extended reach or be replaced with addressable ads.
The digital playout system uses data from WO Traffic to make ad replacement decisions at the Spot and/or Material level. By monetizing ads replaced on the stream, stations can maximize the revenue potential of live streaming their broadcast content via OTT/CTV, while also ensuring they’re prepared for the addressable capabilities of NextGen TV.
z For additional information, visit www.wideorbit.com.
Chyron PRIME 4.5
PRIME 4.5, the latest version of Chyron’s software-based live production platform is designed to simplify the shift to cloud-based workflows for live, uncompressed video, provide greater control over live data without requiring complex scripting, make common data-management and scene-building tasks more efficient and automate fluid virtual camera effects in scenes.
Chyron has implemented the AWS Cloud Digital Interface in PRIME 4.5, giving users the ability to encode, transport and stream uncompressed 4K video and audio in the cloud with Amazon Elastic Cloud Compute (EC2) and AWS Elemental MediaLive. Modules for the PRIME platform can be deployed on high-performance EC2 instances. Output streams can be routed to other PRIME systems or streaming distribution chains via an IP address connection with MediaLive.
USER REPORT
By Bob Sharp Executive Director of Technology, Engineering, Systems and Operations. DeSales Media
BROOKLYN, N.Y.—DeSales Media is a direct provider of Catholic news, events and original content through print, TV, digital and experiential, to engage Catholics and drive them to put their faith into action. With more than 100 years since the launch of our first newspaper, “The Tablet,” and an evolution spanning parochial schooling, prayer channels, evangelization television, an additional newspaper and a 24/7 cable channel carrying live mass, devotional programming, educational programming, news, and entertainment, DeSales is devoted to covering the Catholic perspective through a multifaceted 360-degree approach.
We’ve recently transformed ourselves into a content hub for the faith-based community and its creators. With focused programming and live feeds from local sites including the Cathedral Basilica of St. James and the Co-Cathedral of St. Joseph, in Brooklyn, St. Patrick’s Cathedral in Manhattan and international locations including the Vatican, we sought a scalable master control solution to simplify playlist management and streamline efficiencies. We wanted something that had the proven ability to handle a variety of content distribution modes including playout to air for a regular channel and distribution of content to affiliates for their play to air. flexibility in handling the playlists and making adjustments. It has also changed the way we do live events—allowing us to program a live event without manual intervention has given us a whole new lease on how we can program, and even what we can program. With Crispin’s master control automation, we don’t have to worry about server availabilities—we can see everything that we need to do and we’re able to record on multiple recorders if we need to. During the pandemic, when the church decided to do eight live masses every day in different languages, we were able to program that very simply: The ones that they wanted us to record, we were able to record and program it as a secondary record. If we needed to re-air that, we were able to schedule it for re-air and we were even able to QC it while we were on another live event. Those capabilities give us a lot more
Bob Sharp’s team at DeSales Media relied on Crispin’s master control solution to handle the delivery of its faith-based content.
A SCALABLE SOLUTION
That’s when we learned about Crispin’s master control automation and quickly implemented it for prep, storage, management and playout of live and pre-recorded content. Crispin runs control for a series of Harmonic Spectrum X playout devices, controlling the graphics.
For us, Crispin has been transformative. When compared to our previous solution, Crispin gives us a lot more power and flexibility.
In addition, there are also some really nice features in the Crispin environment to handle getting back on time coming out of a live event. You can pre-build blocks and store them off to the side in the file cabinet and you can have some evergreen content there in case something goes wrong with the feed, which we’ve found to be an elegant and simple solution that gives us peace of mind.
SIMPLIFIED PLAYLISTS
Something else we really appreciate about Crispin’s solution is that when we make changes on the playlist, being able to do a “ctrl R” and insert and replace everywhere a show is going to air on that whole playlist saves us a lot of time. You can also make one single replacement just for the master control instead of going through 800 lines of content trying to find and replace a single line. That alone has been a major blessing. It’s evident that Crispin’s master control automation was thoughtfully built and designed by people in the industry. It accounts for a lot of the workflows that people are used to in other aspects of their computer life, where find and replace, and search are far more developed than the competition. Additionally, training operators on Crispin is easy. The speed with which new operators who don’t have a master control background catch on to Crispin is impressive. As a not-forprofit religious broadcaster, this is ideal since many of our staff are either experts or fairly green—and both ends of the spectrum have managed to pick it up quickly. l
Bob Sharp is DeSales’ executive director of technology, engineering, systems and operations and has more than 30 years of working in the design, construction, management and operations of broadcast and media facilities, with experience in news, sports, feature entertainment and post-production. He can be reached at rsharp@desalesmedia.org.
For more information, visit https://crispincorp.com/.
buyers briefs
Lawo .edge
Designed as the ideal, drop-in replacement for monolithic legacy SDI routers, .edge offers the convenience and reliability of native SDI/IP conversion for long-haul video, audio and control data transport, flexible scalability and router distribution. It is also the perfect solution for users who need to upgrade to UHD and quickly find themselves limited by existing router matrices. Supporting bandwidths of 25GbE and 100GbE, each 2RU frame can provide up to 192 SDI connectors, using four rear I/O plates. The hardware is software-licensable, allowing operators to unlock only the required number of HD-BNC connectors, for OPEX-style flexibility. Clean and quiet switching as well as local loop support are built in, while 3G UHD Gearboxing, UHD Link Rotate and other specialist features can be licensed when required. z For more information visit https://lawo.com.
IHSE Draco tera IP Gateway
The Draco tera IP Gateway allows IHSE KVM users to bridge multiple KVM matrixes over existing IP networks within buildings, across campuses, and between remote corporate offices. It combines the high levels of security and performance of the Draco tera KVM system with the flexibility and ease of connectivity inherent in IP-based communication. Therefore, it allows users to access remote computers and interact in real time with minimal latency and no visible artifacts, with the full confidence of a highly secure KVM system. In addition, Secure Core technology prevents direct access to the data within the KVM system from the IP network.
z For more information visit www.ihse.com.
Apantac UE-II Series
The Apantac UE-II Series of 4x1 or 8x1 cascadable HDMI 2.0 (4K UHD) multiviewers—with built-in KVM functionality—accommodate and create a truly integrated monitoring and control system. Apantac multiviewers can accept up to HDMI 2.0 UHD/4K 60 Hz inputs with HDMI 2.0 UHD at 18 Gbps outputs. The KVM function allows multiple computers connected to the multiviewer to be controlled via a single mouse and keyboard—users simply move the mouse from window to window (on their display) to switch the control from one computer to another one. A single operator can visually monitor and control up to eight computers on a single console with a UHD or HD monitor. Via the single console, the user can easily switch between multiviewer layouts using predefined keyboard shortcuts. z For more information visit www.apantac.com.
Imagine Communications Magellan Control System
The Magellan Control System is a fast, reliable routing control solution for the modern broadcast facility –performing all the functions of the routing system—across traditional SDI matrices and also modern ST2110 infrastructures. Magellan Control—which is being used by many global media companies to protect legacy investments and make a managed transition to IP—works seamlessly with all routing and end-point devices, supports AMWA NMOS IS-04/05 protocols, and manages thousands of multicast flows through monolithic or distributed COTS fabric architectures. With an easy-touse, context-aware interface, Magellan Control enables operators to create, save and recall their own routing, parametric and monitoring workflows. z For more information visit
https://imaginecommunications.com.
G&D VisionXS
VisionXS comes in a small package but delivers big performance. The new IP extender series utilizes standard Ethernet networks with up to 10 GB bandwidth and therefore requires much less compression at higher display resolutions. G&D’s proprietary lossless video compression bluedec transmits pixel-perfect resolutions up to 4K60 and improves the user experience many times over. As a special highlight, the integrated IP-MUX function lets a console device manage multiple target IP addresses from up to 20 computer sources without requiring additional hardware. The on-screen display can be used to switch between different sources. z For more information visit
https://www.gdsys.com/en.
A New Era in Master Control at Iowa PBS
USER REPORT
By Bill Hayes Director of Engineering and Technology Iowa PBS
JOHNSTOWN, Iowa—Iowa PBS has been a national leader in TV for decades. We have centralized master control of four program streams, distributed statewide via 17 transmission facilities as well as outputs to streaming services. We produce nationally syndicated TV shows, use our studio facilities for widely viewed specials and have received many awards from our programs and live sports.
When our Avid-Sundance system reached end-of-life, we carefully accessed all master control automation and found Aveco a stand-out leader. There are many important innovations in playout and we wanted to use them now!
However, our transition period had to happen during COVID-19. We were amazed at how smooth the process went—a major master control replacement, adding many new features, while no one could come onsite! A well-designed transition plan and the workflow automation scripting in Aveco helped a lot.
THE TRANSITION PLAN
Aveco has a direct database conversion from Avid-Sundance (and others) as well as BXF integration with Myers ProTrack traffic and API integration with Telestream-Masstech. All existing media and metadata migrated easily into Aveco.
Via BXF, whenever a trimming or segmentation update is made in Aveco, the updated “confirmed timing” instantly updates both ProTrack and Masstech. Bi-directional MXF was one of our first steps.
In the past, Iowa PBS used many video server ports for ingest but Aveco’s equipment pool management efficiently allows sharing of ingest ports for program feeds, studio feeds, archival ingest, etc. It implements priorities to ensure important scheduled feeds are never missed and provides equipment pool sharing of video server ports for video roll-ins during live production. Aveco also controls live graphics—bridging master control and production use of shared resources.
While Iowa is the center of political hurricanes every four years, we’re also in the center of “Tornado Alley”—our Intelliweather system is integrated with Aveco master control to bring instantaneous storm updates; every second matters.
Iowa PBS has a great staff and training remotely due to COVID—on a new advanced automation platform—was expected to be a big challenge. There were many new features and workflow improvements to learn. The new Aveco software was easy to understand, the trainers had a great grasp of what’s needed, and our staff got up to speed surprisingly fast.
CLOUD LEADERSHIP
There are many features our staff especially like in Aveco—the integrated MAM, multichannel timeline, BXF bidirectional integration between Aveco-ProTrack and Masstech, the efficiency of equipment pooling, the easy sharing of master control and studio production, ease of use, great reliability, the safe client-server architecture, and the flexibility of unattended and remote operation. We were and continue to be very pleased with Aveco’s responsiveness to our comments and concerns and their flexibility at working with us on refinements to the overall operation of the system.
Most broadcast technologists see current or near-term use of the cloud for a variety of functions—MAM, storage, playout, pop-up channels. It was impressive to see Aveco’s early leadership in this area, with on-prem, hybrid cloud and full cloud operation on air for a range of quality broadcasters. Aveco controls our Harmonic Spectrum platform onsite and the Harmonic VOS360 cloud system which we may use in the future.
TV is in another fast rate of change—over the years, there have been many major waves. We’ve found some smaller companies are the best in innovating and adapting and we consider Aveco one of these and are honored to work with them and other quality manufacturers helping lead our industry. l
Bill Hayes, director of engineering and technology for Iowa PBS, has been at the forefront of broadcast TV technology for 40 years, 23 of them at Iowa PBS. He’s served as president of IEEE’s Broadcast Technology Society, is a Partnership Board Member of the International Broadcasting Convention (IBC) and has contributed extensively to SMPTE and ATSC. He can be reached at hayes@iowapbs.org and 515-725-9765.
For more information, visit aveco.com.
buyers briefs
Matrox Extio 3 IP KVM extenders
Extio 3 IP KVM extenders deliver secure, high-performance 4Kp60 4:4:4 and quad 1080p60 4:4:4 video extension and switching support over a standard GigE network, enabling operators in post-production facilities, control rooms, and OB vans to benefit from seamless remote connectivity. Extio 3’s Aggregator Mode also allows remote users to operate multiple source computer systems from a single Extio receiver unit located at a remote multidisplay station and control them with a single keyboard and mouse. In addition, users leveraging the Tile View feature can access, monitor, and control up to four separate systems on one Full HD or 4K monitor for unrivaled productivity-enhancing remote experiences. z For more information visit www.matrox.com/en.
FOR-A MFR-3100EX
Introduced at the 2022 NAB Show, FOR-A’s new MFR-3100EX all-in-one production processor is one of the company’s software-defined IP solutions, providing switching, multiview, PTZ camera control, NDI support and streaming—all in one 4RU-sized unit. The MFR-3100EX configures a matrix of up to 64x72, with up to 4 inputs/4 outputs for 8K signals or 16 inputs/18 outputs for 4K UHD. Multiple units can be used together, enabling matrix expansion and redundancy. All input channels may be monitored via web browser, and optional functionality like frame synchronization, AVDL, and audio MUX/DEMUX can be added via an expansion card. z For more information visit www.for-a.com.
WorldCast SureStream for KVM
WorldCast’s recently announced SureStream for KVM offers pixel-perfect transmission, latency free video and flawless audio, even over imperfect IP networks. With a combination of redundant streaming technology, packet-forwarding, and virtual trunking solutions, SureStream provides reliable Quality of Experience (QoE) for any content and any media over IP networks, at low cost, with high resilience, security, and simplified management and control. The SureStream KVM solution also improves the user experience by combining all available network links into one single link and with packet loss protection that guarantees virtually zero packet loss while utilizing 50% of actual trunk bandwidth capacity. z For more information visit: www.worldcast.group.
Blackmagic Design Smart Videohub
The new Smart Videohub is the world’s first Ultra HD mixed-format router with built in video monitoring and spin knob router control. Depending on the model, Smart Videohub includes the latest 6G-SDI or 12G-SDI technology so users can simultaneously connect and route any combination of SD, HD and UHD video, all the way up to high frame rate 2160p60, all on the same router. The Smart Videohub also features revolutionary new visual routing that lets users see their router connections as video on the built-in LCD as you scroll the knob to select your routing. Designed for broadcast, post or live production, Smart Videohub’s super compact size means it’s perfect for use in large broadcast systems or portable mini racks for live production where cameras, switchers, recording and monitors are all connected to Smart Videohub. z For more information visit www.blackmagicdesign.com.
AJA KUMO Routers
AJA KUMO routers provide convenient dense routing solutions in lightweight, compact form factors for use in facilities, OB trucks, post suites and more. Available in multiple connector densities in 3G-SDI and 12G-SDI options, KUMO routers are easy to update, configure, and control with optional control panels for quick physical access to source and destination routing and convenient USB ports for IP configuration. All models also offer integrated web browser access across a network over the built-in Ethernet connection. KUMO 161612G and KUMO 3232-12G SDI routers enable 4K and UltraHD routing on a single BNC for rates up to 12G. z For more information visit www.aja.com.
buyers briefs
Black Box Emerald KVM-Over-IP Platform
The Black Box Emerald KVM-over-IP platform serves as an infinitely scalable universal access system, giving users the flexibility to connect to both physical and virtual machines from any location at any time, which allows for optimized studio infrastructure and workflows. Advanced security and market-leading low-bandwidth consumption allow maximum expandability, incorporating remote users, remote productions and distributed control rooms. Interoperability between 4K and HD video and one-touch setups of control rooms, combined with a high degree of automation through Emerald’s APIs, gives users valuable flexibility and ease of use in managing signals and format types to deliver content with an innovative look and feel, while Emerald preserves the existing IT equipment. z For more information visit
www.blackbox.com/en-us.
PlayBox Neo Multi Playout Manager
A newly enhanced PlayBox Neo module, Multi Playout Manager (MPM) is a broadcast playout monitoring and control system which allows multiple AirBox Neo-20 channels to be operated via IP from any authorized location. The latest version includes an updated UI with integrated playout preview and is designed to match the UIs used across the entire PlayBox Neo series. Optimized performance combined with fully integrated playout preview makes remote control and monitoring easier than ever. A built-in editor enables users to create future playlists. MPM also provides support for custom metadata from AirBox Neo-20 and includes a library module for fast access to MAM. Media files can be drag-and-drop moved from library to playlist or processed into multiple folders with customized metadata settings such as “category” and “folder color.” A supervisor can also custom brand the MPM user interface with an organization’s or channel’s logo. z For more information visit
www.playboxneo.com.
Bitcentral Central Control
Central Control is a comprehensive and fully integrated master control and automated software toolset that provides modules to execute all the processes that converge into playout. Through Central Control, operators can efficiently deliver full linear channels, including traffic integration, inventory and media asset management, offline playlist scheduling, system monitoring and reporting, syndicated content processing, and automated feed recording. Central Control incorporates intelligent workflows that streamline playout processes ensuring you can reliably and efficiently operate more channels.
z For more information visit
https://bitcentral.com.
products & services marketplace
For possible inclusion, send information to tvtech@futurenet.com with People News in the subject line.
DAVE GERMAN
VP/GM, KXXV/KRHD TV Stations
The E.W. Scripps Co.
With more than 30 years of experience as a broadcast manager, Dave German has been appointed vice president and general manager by The E.W. Scripps Co. for KXXV/KHRD, the Scripps ABC affiliates in the Waco/Temple/Bryan, Texas, market. German has been VP/GM for KMTV, the Scripps CBS affiliate in Omaha, Neb., since October and prior to that, he was station manager of KPEJ in Odessa Texas, and GM of an eight-station cluster in Alaska.
MATTHEW LIPSON
EVP, Marketing for Digital Platforms and Content
Allen Media Group
Byron Allen’s AMG has hired Matthew Lipson EVP of marketing for digital platforms and content. He will oversee marketing strategies, creative development, social and paid media for AMG streaming platforms, including Sports.TV, theGrio, HBCU GO and Comedy. TV, as well as Freestyle Digital Media, the digital distribution division for movies. He previously held positions at 101 Studios, Open Road Films and NBCU.
DAVID BECK
Chief Strategy, Corporate Development Officer
Brightcove
David Beck has been appointed chief strategy and corporate development officer for Brightcove. He will lead strategy, business development and corporate development, and focus on strategies to enhance current offerings and create opportunities to expand Brightcove’s existing businesses. Beck brings two decades of experience in strategy, operations and business development at digital brands, most recently at AMC.
CHRIS FEDELE
GM, WPTA-TV & WISE-TV
Gray Television
Gray Television has named veteran broadcaster Chris Fedele general manager of WPTA-TV (ABC/NBC) and WISE-TV (CW) in Ft. Wayne, Ind. He spent the past four years as general manager of Gray’s WTVG-TV (ABC) in Toledo, Ohio. Prior to that he served 10 years as the director of sales and marketing for WLEX-TV (NBC) in Lexington, Ky., and 14 years at WPTA-TV in various sales manager positions before a five-year stint as the station’s general manager.
SHAWN HODER
VP/News Director
CBS News and Stations
CBS News and Stations has named Shawn Hoder vice president and news director at CBS News and Stations’ local businesses in Pittsburgh, which include KDKA-TV (CBS), WPCW-TV (The CW Pittsburgh), the CBS News Pittsburgh streaming channel and CBSPittsburgh.com. Hoder will assume his new role on July 6, succeeding Kathy Hostetter, who became the VP/GM of CBS News and Stations’ local businesses in Baltimore.
JOHN TREVIÑO
President & GM of KBMT-KJAC
Tegna
Tegna has named John Treviño president and GM at KBMT-KJAC, the flagship stations of the 12News Now network serving the Golden Triangle area of Southeast Texas. He will be responsible for overseeing the dual ABC and NBC affiliate operation serving the Beaumont area across all platforms, as well as leading the stations’ focus on community service and driving results for advertisers. Most recently, Treviño was VP and GM at KDAF, the CW affiliate in Dallas-Fort Worth.
TJ BEARDSMORE
Director of Program Management
BeckTV
BeckTV has hired TJ Beardsmore as director of program management. The company said, “With so many broadcast installations back-to-back and schedules shifting all the time, we needed someone with TJ’s skills to track and coordinate projects and ensure” operational efficiency. He has spent 26 years in the IT industry, focusing on technical operations, project management and systems integration for broadcast centers and sports facilities.
TONY LEADMAN
Executive Dir. of International Distribution
The Weather Group Television
Allen Media Group, parent company of The Weather Group TV, has named Tony Leadman executive director of international distribution. Leadman will develop and lead a business unit to distribute The Weather Channel’s original programming worldwide. Previously, Leadman was the architect of CTV and Bell Media’s international program distribution business, responsible for co-productions, commissions and licensing deals.
