The broadcasters ORF, ZDF and HD Resources used Riedel MediorNet systems for signal distribution during the recent Alpine Ski World Cup in Garmisch-Partenkirchen. The communications infrastructure of the opening ceremony was also based on Riedel technology.
In total, 29 MediorNet mainframes were installed to enable the broadcast organisations’ coverage of this high-profile sporting event.
Austrian public broadcaster ORF used a comprehensive MediorNet installation incorporating commentary booths, the Medal Plaza, the TOC and the OB truck into one single network. Signals from various cameras were distributed over the MediorNet network, which was also used to transport the broadcast feed between the different venues and studios.
“With the long distances between the venues, we knew we needed to install a fiber-based system. Compared to regular point-to-point solutions MediorNet’s technology was superior in terms of network applications. Due to the high number of connections we had with this installation, we already realised in our planning phase how powerful MediorNet is,” said ORF’s Wolfgang Meier.
Meanwhile, German public broadcaster ZDF used a total of eight MediorNet mainframes for routing the German broadcast feed between the IBC and the OB truck, as well as integrating various Riedel Artist control panels into the fiber network. With the help of MediorNet’s integrated Embedder/De-Embedder, commentator audio and ambient microphones was embedded into the video feed. Audio was de-embedded at the destination and routed to the OB truck as a regular MADI signal.
Finally, Swedish broadcast provider HD Resources used a MediorNet installation for distributing the video signals as well as the control data for the camera’s CCU. This also enabled the integration of the camera’s 4-wire communications. A Riedel RockNet digital audio network installation was integrated into the MediorNet system via MediorNet’s RockNet media card.
In addition to the extensive MediorNet deployment, the communications infrastructure of the opening ceremony was also based on Riedel technology, combining Artist digital matrix intercom, Performer digital partyline and digital TETRA radio into one single system.
