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sonoVTS GmbH to Participate in IP Showcase at IBC 2018
Broadcast products, rental and systems company will join leading vendors and broadcasters in educating IBC visitors about standards-based IP signal transport
Germany-based broadcast products, rental and systems company sonoVTS GmbH has announced that it will be participating in the IP Showcase at IBC2018. During a presentation in the IP Showcase Theatre at 10am on Saturday 15 September, the company will explore the shift from traditional SDI to IP-based broadcast workflows, and the impact this is having on the display of video signals.
The IP Showcase has been a feature at major industry trade shows since IBC2016 and has been instrumental in helping the industry to galvanise behind the standards-based approach to IP. The event is hosted by major technical and standards organisations within the broadcast industry — Audio Engineering Society (AES), Alliance for IP Media Solutions (AIMS), Advanced Media Workflow Association (AMWA), European Broadcasting Union (EBU), Society of Motion Picture and Television Engineers® (SMPTE®), and Video Services Forum (VSF).
Industry-leading vendors and broadcasters will gather at the IP Showcase at IBC2018 to provide instructional and case-study presentations, and an array of IP-based product demonstrations highlighting the benefits of, and momentum behind, the broadcast industry’s move to standards-based IP infrastructure for real-time professional media applications. The IP Showcase will feature equipment displays and product demonstrations that emphasise everything industry vendors have achieved in support of IP standards and specifications. Meanwhile, the IP Showcase Theatre will be the destination for educational presentations, a vital element as the industry progresses through the phases of IP adoption.
During the sonoVTS presentation, entitled ‘Broadcast Displays in IP Workflows’, business development manager Bart Meeus will consider several critical questions about video signal display, including whether or not native IP broadcast displays constitute the best way forward for the industry. “Until very recently the display of video signals was straightforward with no more requirements than basic SDI display capability,” says Meeus. “However, as we move firmly into the IP era it is clear that the need to display uncompressed IP standards, such as SMPTE 2022 or SMPTE 2110, directly on native IP displays is placing fresh demands on the functionality of display systems. In this presentation we will explore the implications of moving from traditional SDI to IP-based workflows, and how this migration can be carried out with a minimum of disruption.”
Reflecting on the overall objectives of the IP Showcase, AIMS Board Chair Michael Cronk commented: “The transition to IP is underway, and the progress we’ve made toward standardising IP infrastructure and operations in the media industry has only happened because so many organisations have come together and devoted time and effort to the cause. The IP Showcase is a physical manifestation of that progress, and we’re thrilled to see all the companies that have embraced IP technology and chosen to put their efforts on show for IBC visitors to experience.”
The IP Showcase will take place in rooms E106 and E107 at the RAI Amsterdam during IBC2018, Sept. 14-18. More information about the IP Showcase at IBC2018 is available at www.ipshowcase.org.
sonoVTS serving as systems integrator for groundbreaking IP-based Plazamedia broadcasting centre
Based around a comprehensive IP production infrastructure, the new centre in Ismaning, near Munich, Germany, is due for completion ahead of the 2018-19 Bundesliga season.
AUGUST 29, 2018: Germany-based broadcast products, rental and systems company sonoVTS GmbH is delighted to announce that it is currently completing work on a landmark systems integration project for Plazamedia GmbH. The leading German media production company – which has a particular specialism in generating live and non-live sports content – is renowned for its use of cutting-edge technological infrastructures, and it is within this spirit that it has decided to implement a comprehensive IP production infrastructure at its new broadcasting centre in Ismaning, near Munich.
For more than 40 years Plazamedia has been at the forefront of production and delivery, latterly producing, managing, archiving and distributing content on a multitude of leading platforms. Having been among the first companies to adopt extensive file-based workflows nearly a decade ago, it should come as no surprise to discover that it is now embracing an entirely IP-based approach to production at its new broadcasting centre, which is scheduled to be operational in time for the start of the new Bundesliga season on 24 August.
The new centre – which was designed by Plazamedia – puts the onus on flexibility and the fast, efficient production and distribution of content. A maximum data throughput of 12.8 terabits per second sets a new standard in the broadcast sector, while the massive IP-based crossbar system based on Lawo and Nevion devices replaces the 17 formerly used video routers and manages the entire signal distribution and signal processing.
Plazamedia will be able to help broadcasters work the way they want to with production, workflow and media asset management capabilities from remote production to the cloud. A flexible, scalable media platform supports live streaming and broadcast-quality video-on-demand offerings, while virtual servers and high-availability storage systems – both on-premise and in the cloud – facilitate powerful and endlessly flexible media management, processing and archiving.
Incorporating a multi-functional design that allows rooms to be used in smaller or larger formations as required by the needs of each project, the new centre features systems from some of the most respected manufacturers in the business. Lawo’s VSM broadcast control system is integral to the specification, allowing user interfaces and control panels to be configured almost freely within the fully redundant system – making it possible for them to be adapted specifically to the various application areas and workflows of Plazamedia.
The centre has been developed with a watchful eye on emerging technologies that are set to dominate broadcast production over the next few years. As might be expected the facility is posied and ready to support UHD production, but attention has also been given to the rapid growth of online services with a renewal and extension of the existing streaming and OTT delivery platform. A powerful multi-CDN – deployed, if required, with comprehensive rights management – will ensure the cost-effective and high-quality distribution of the broadcast streams.
sonoVTS is serving as the systems integrator for the entire project, continuing a long and productive association with Plazamedia. Franz Olbert, Managing Director of sonoVTS, comments: “This is a truly groundbreaking facility with the capability not just to support the production workflows and requirements of today, but those of tomorrow and for many years hence. We believe it is the most flexible and powerful broadcasting centre of its kind, and we are proud to be playing such an important role in its delivery. Once again, the collaboration with Plazamedia has been brilliant and constantly creative.”
sonoVTS to focus on new three-tier structure and landmark projects at IBC2018
The company will emphasise the capabilities of its Products, Rental and Systems business units, and reflect on recent projects with Plazamedia and the football World Cup.
AUGUST 1, 2018: Germany-based broadcast products, rental and systems company sonoVTS GmbH has announced that it will be placing the emphasis on the extensive capabilities of its three business units throughout this year’s IBC (RAI Amsterdam, 14-18 September). The move is in accordance with the recent concentration of company interests into clearly-defined Products, Rental and Systems units – a development that has contributed to one of the most successful periods on record for sonoVTS.
“The pace of change in the broadcast technology market is accelerating, which means that customers are seeking both clarity from service providers about what they can offer, and reassurance that they will remain responsive to change,” says Tobias Kronenwett, Head of Business Development, sonoVTS. “By operating divisions for product manufacturing, product rental and systems integration it is evident that we can accommodate broadcast needs across the board. In addition, we are able to perceive all sides of a project – and anticipate potential arising issues – because we have this kind of multi-faceted approach.”
Each of the three business units will have their turn in the spotlight at IBC2018. The Products division will showcase some of the newest models in the HDQLINE series of modular videowall and IP-enabled products displays, including support for 4K/UHD and HDRpreview. Representing the latest generation of multi-standard broadcast display, the latest HDQLINE products are based around a powerful high-precision video processing engine – four times more powerful than earlier versions – with control from a fast embedded processor and extensive functionality courtesy of bespoke software design. In addition, sonoVTS will outline its HDRpreview concept, which delivers a more cost-efficient variation of HDR that can be readily integrated into existing workflows.
The Rental and Systems units will highlight their ability to support some of the biggest projects on the planet – and they don’t come any bigger than the recent footballing World Cup in Russia! For this event sonoVTS worked with the host broadcaster to integrate Equipment Room Containers (ERCs) that were located at each of the 12 venues and connected to theInternational Broadcast Centre. The priority with the ERCs was on delivering the utmost production flexibility, and as a result they were each able to accommodate simultaneous output in multiple formats.
sonoVTS is currently working on the integration of a comprehensive IP-based infrastructure at Plazamedia’s new broadcasting centre situated in Ismaning, near Munich. The new centre – whose capabilities will include a scalable network architecture with a total data throughput of up to 12.8 terabits per second – is scheduled for completion in time for the start of the 2018-19 Bundesliga season
“We are enormously proud of these references, which illustrate both the respected nature of our services and the full range of our capabilities,” says Franz Olbert, Managing Director at sonoVTS. “With many smaller and medium-level integration and supply projects in progress, we look forward to meeting new and potential customers at IBC2018, and explaining how we can be a primary partner in ensuring they always remain one step ahead of broadcast technology changes.”
To register to attend IBC2018, please visit https://show.ibc.org.
sonoVTS GmbH announces completion of Nilesat Central Monitoring Center project
Leading Egyptian communications satellites company Nilesat had engaged the company to integrate display, multiviewer and related sub-systems.
AUGUST 01, 2018: sonoVTS GmbH has confirmed the completion of a major integration project undertaken on behalf of Egyptian satellite company Nilesat. The project was initiated during 2017 when sonoVTS GmbH was contracted to deliver a new Central Monitoring Center (CMC) based around its HDQLINE display products and a purpose-designed video wall.
TV services in SD, HD and 4K
The HDQLINE displays provide colour calibration, a no-fan design to limit noise impact, central video wall control, and dynamic and static IMD (Internal Monitor Display) via ethernet connectivity. The video wall was purpose-designed and constructed by sonoVTS, which also integrated a receiving subsystem that is capable of decoding and carrying TV services in SD, HD and 4K, as well as radio services.
Optimised and multiple sources
Designed to optimise the flexibility of the CMC, the multiviewer subsystem can process inputs from multiple sources – including IP, SDI and HDMI – according to various broadcast specifications. Meanwhile, the measurement and analysis sub-system is based on monitoring downlink transport streams.
Rounding out the new Nilesat Central Monitoring Center, the furniture incorporated into the new CMC was also designed and manufactured by sonoVTS.
We are delighted
Franz Olbert, Managing Director of sonoVTS, comments: “We are delighted to have worked on this major international project with Nilesat, which takes place during a period of many high-profile references for our services. Once again, the experience we can offer as a systems integrator and a manufacturer of high quality monitors and other equipment ensured that we were the right partner to deliver and integrate this significant new facility.”
Germany-based broadcast products, rental and systems company sonoVTS GmbH has announced that it has established a cooperative partnership with Broadcast Remote Global (BRG) Ltd, the UK-based video production service company. The new agreement – which is to be officially signed tomorrow at Broadcast Asia (Suntec, Singapore, 26-28 June 2018) – will initially focus on developing shared interests in China, with the burgeoning eSports market expected to provide particularly exciting opportunities for the two companies in the coming years.
A long working relationship
The collaboration has its origins in a long working relationship between sonoVTS Business Development Manager Bart Meeus and Colin Cradock, who is the owner of Broadcast Remote Global and the Owner and Chief Executive Officer of China BRG. Meeus and Cradock worked together on “many major sports productions some years ago,” and since then Meeus has observed with interest BRG’s “ongoing expansion in China and other Asian markets, with Colin rapidly becoming an influential participant in the emerging eSports broadcast and events industry.”
Since 2014 Colin has serviced numerous eSports events from Korea to Los Angeles, including the Formula E Grand Prix and Riot Games World Finals, as well as overseeing the development and build of new broadcast studios worldwide. sonoVTS – whose extensive system design, integration and service capabilities are augmented by an increasingly powerful manufacturing offer that includes the HDQLINE series of modular videowall and IP-enabled broadcast displays – has also been collecting some significant references in this exciting market, and together the two companies are confident that their complementary skillsets can make them a dominant force in the Asian eSports industry.
Incredible dynamic market
“IP is going to be very important in giving eSports producers the flexibility and functionality they require to undertake events of increasing complexity,” says Meeus. “With our latest IP-capable displays – as well as our expertise in designing and developing OB facilities and flypacks – we believe that we will be a valuable partner to BRG as we jointly explore the incredible opportunities presented by this dynamic market. We are also in the process of developing new solutions geared specifically towards the requirements of eSports.”
The next level – Augmented Reality (AR)
With live stage performances and Augmented Reality (AR) also being added to eSports events formats, Cradock believes the time is right for a partnership able to offer such a range of technical capabilities and future-proofed solutions. “As Bart has remarked, BRG will be the ‘eyes and ears on the ground’ for the partnership in China and elsewhere in Asia as the eSports market matures to become a permanent element of the sports and events industry,” he says. “In combination we will have a very strong offer to put to event organisers and broadcasters wishing to accommodate the growing expectations of audiences watching both at eSports venues and on mobile and OTT platforms throughout the region and beyond. We have already had some positive conversations about specific projects and look forward to making further announcements in the near-future.”
sonoVTS providing equipment facilities and support personnel at global football tournament
The host broadcast operation of the international football tournament taking place in June and July 2018 is making extensive use of sonoVTS broadcast technologies and technical expertise in order to support production in multiple formats, including 4K.
Connecting 12 venues
Following on from its successful deployment at the previous tournament four years ago, the host broadcaster again decided to utilise the Equipment Room Container (ERC) concept at this event. Incorporating a variety of solutions from leading broadcast technology suppliers, these containers provide the tools to allow the host broadcaster to service its many rights holding broadcasters around the world. One ERC is located at the TV compound sited at each of the 12 venues and connected to the host broadcaster’s container house.
Russia meets UHD, 4K & HDR
With UHD/4K and HDR production becoming increasingly commonplace, the host broadcaster decided to upgrade the specification of the ERCs in advance of the latest tournament. The refurbishment work was carried out by the sonoVTS team in Munich, Germany, in close cooperation with the host broadcaster, with the units being shipped to the host country in advance of the first matches.
As a result of the upgrade the units are now able to accommodate simultaneous output in 1080p, UHD and 4K HDR, as well as production in HD and legacy formats. With the first events taking place at the 14th of June, the units are said to be performing well, and they will continue to be supported by sonoVTS personnel on the ground for the duration of the championships.
Let’s play ball in Russia
“We are delighted to be supporting this hugely important sports event with equipment facilities and technical capabilities that will ensure viewers around the world are able to enjoy matches in the best possible quality,” says sonoVTS Head of Business Development Tobias Kronenwett, adding that sonoVTS has also supplied a dozen localised Technical Operation Centres.
Bart Meeus, Business Development Manager will be speaking at the IABM’s IP Showcase during CABSAT 2018.
Session Title: OB Van 3.0
sonoVTS, a German-based system integrator, will unveil their IP vision for the next generation of OB vehicles. Referring back to late 2017 and the first IP OB Truck with TPC in Switzerland, the session will also explore how the technical, broadcast infrastructure will need to evolve and how new technologies will determine the future of OB trucks.
sonoVTS, the Munich-based provider of System Design and Integration; Equipment Rental and Operations; Service and Consulting and distribution of professional products, today announced that along with STRYME, a long-term supplier of the Austrian Broadcast Corporation (ORF) an internationally renowned broadcast solutions expert, devised a user-friendly state-of-the-art solution for Parliament Television to enable live debate broadcasts from the National Assembly of Zambia.
With financial support from Kreditanstalt für Wiederaufbau (KFW) in Germany and consultation provided by MCI Berlin, the Parliament Television project setup includes cameras installed on the walls of the Parliament Chamber and in three conference rooms. Live debates from these four locations are now recorded simultaneously using a STRYME 4-in Multi-Cam Ingest solution. Part of the Press Gallery was turned into a TV studio that was equipped with a GENESIX VideoServer, complete with Master Control and Playout Automation.
Michael Jaehnel, Head of Project Sales at sonoVTS, said, “We partnered with STRYME because their durable and reliable solutions are high-tech, yet reasonably priced. The GENESIX VideoServer is a real asset for the Zambian government. Parliament TV now benefits from top quality made in Austria and a failsafe, versatile, and user-friendly solution.”
Four ultra-fast ingest channels capture and record all live clips locally on the GENESIX VideoServer. The GENESIX Transfer Manager Simultaneously transports and records these clips and metadata – using Transfer While Capture – to a third-party archive (Proxy, from VITEC) where they are stored for one month in HD quality. After expiry of the storage period, clips and metadata are moved to a tape library.
STRYME CEO Goce Zdravkoski said, “Our challenge was to streamline and optimize the client’s workflows with a tailor-made, flexible, and future-proof set-up. Today’s requirements should anticipate and meet tomorrow’s needs. We were honoured to join sonoVTS in this high-profile project and provide the National Assembly of Zambia with a sophisticated, fully equipped GENESIX VideoServer.”
Using the GENESIX Playlist Scheduler, planning, setting up, arranging, editing, and scheduling a playlist or enhancing it with graphics material from the clip files stored on the GENESIX VideoServer is easy. The Playout Automation module takes care of everything else: it automatically broadcasts parliamentary debates, events, and celebrations as scheduled, and, if needed, on a 24/7 basis.
Of course, the GENESIX VideoServer comes with different recording functions, especially those required by the client, such as Crash/Scheduled/Loop as part of the real-time ingest, and is compatible with different codecs (XDCAM HD, ProRes, DNxHD or XAVC). Integrating the GENESIX VideoServer into third-party systems or adding new material is effortless.
sonoVTS, the Munich-based provider of system design and integration will feature substantial advancements to its acclaimed modular videowall, and introduce a new range of IP-optimised broadcast displays at CABSAT 2018 at the Dubai World Trade Centre from 14-16 January.
The new videowall consists of 3×3 55” HDQLINE displays, featuring an extremely small, 0.9mm bezel coupled with an expertly engineered, self-supporting rack system.
The exceptionally scalable, adaptable, and lightweight sonoVTS videowall is easy to transport and assemble. Importantly, a single monitor can be replaced if necessary with no need to remove others.
sonoVTS Head of Products and Displays, Wolfgang Huther, said, “We took great care in designing this videowall, to ensure it represents the very best of a new generation of powerful and versatile broadcast displays.”
At CABSAT 2018, sonoVTS will also introduce additions to its range of IP-enabled HDQLINE broadcast displays for mission-critical, high-end applications. HDQLINE is already highly regarded for its no-compromise colour fidelity, resolution, precision, and image quality, but now boasts seamless interoperability with IP-based products of a number of other brands.
Huther added, “HDQLINE broadcast displays are in use worldwide. In addition to its new, high-specification design, its future-proof platform enables it to readily embrace new technologies and standards. HDQLINE represents the rarest of breeds – a safe and reliable investment in the future.”
The new videowall and HDQLINE products can be found on Stand ZB4-C 13 at CABSAT 2018. For more information, visit www.sonovts.com.