Icelandic broadcaster N4 has installed a Channel in a Box playout system from PlayBox Technology as it moves to HD.
The free-to-air channel wanted a software integrated playout solution that was simple to use, as well as capable of delivering complex customisation.
Having identified the PlayBox system, N4 worked with local system integrator Exton on design and installation.
PlayBox’s system covers the complete range of playout requirements, from content ingest through asset management to schedule and playlist development and frame-accurate delivery.
It is capable of 4K Ultra HD, although N4 is running in HD at present. It supports both ingest and delivery as SDI or as IP, including full compatibility with the SMPTE ST 2110 family of standards.
“We showed that, with PlayBox playout software, we could provide completely secure, completely resilient HD output,” said Vilhjálmur Hjálmarsson of Exton. “N4 uses the PlayBox platform to plan its schedule as well as run the daily playlist with full automation, minimising the impact on technical staff. Yet it is flexible enough to allow them to break out with live programming when needed, including commercial breaks.”
