DNF Controls has added an On-Set Playback Control Application to its Flex Control Network that allows a technical director to operate simultaneous and timed events for on-set displays and transitions at the touch of a button, writes David Fox.
It is designed to be used by a single TD, without assistance, complex custom programming, or additional equipment, while increasing production value. It was developed specifically for managing on-set displays during live productions — especially non-linear productions or breaking news — in which a second “TD assist” might be required and/or the on-screen talent interacts with video and graphics.
The application provides simple, push-button random access to clips and graphics for non-scripted events while controlling up to 24 different machines and allowing talent to interact with sophisticated on-set transitions.
“The advent of HD and flat-panel displays has brought more images to the set, adding another layer of complexity to the playout a technical director has to manage,” said Dan Fogel, CTO of DNF Controls.
“This application is highly targeted at efficient workflow and relieving the burden on the TD so that quality remains high consistently without the expense of extra personnel. Now a single TD can control everything the audience will see in real time without imposing impossible-to-synchronize button pushes.”
The On-Set Playback Control Application consists of a CP20 event-based, cue-marking, VTR-style control panel and up to six DC20 device controllers, depending on the number of channels or devices to be controlled. The result is an integrated, standalone tactile, sophisticated, cost-effective backup and manual playout control system.
It is based on the Flex Control Network, DNF’s flagship modular platform of IP-based machine controllers designed to solve all manner of operational control problems while increasing operational efficiency. The platform encompasses device controllers with 25 drivers and interface solutions that combine with a full range of control panels to create applications for solving even the most complex control problems. It offers tactile control surfaces, browser-based interfaces and simple push-button operation using event-to-action logic for sophisticated, automated control.
