Realtime graphics provider RT Software has added iPad support to its tOG-Sports system, currently being used by Sky Sports Golf. The sports analysis graphics system provides the ability for a graphics operator to prepare clips that can be played out live or saved for use later. It also allows studio presenters to use a touchscreen to select clips for analysis and add graphics to explain tactics and nuances of the play. The added support allows use of the iPad as a handheld touchscreen device that delivers the full range of telestration, analysis and VT control that is featured in tOG Sports. The iPad connects wirelessly to the main tOG Sports graphics system that combines delivery of live broadcast quality HD SDI output with HD clip control and content from remote video servers such as EVS. Already a user of tOG Sports, Sky Sports Golf’s production team were using a desktop mounted touchscreen for swing and play analysis, selecting clips on EVS video servers, jogging them backwards and forwards as required and using the interactive touchscreen to add graphics such as swing angles or distances from the pin. Jason Wessely, executive producer, Sky Sports Golf, outlined the challenge for the new studio: “We wanted to move the telestration element of the show away from a desktop mounted touchscreen and literally put it in the presenters’ hand, opening up the ability for presenters to combine live analysis on VT with actual examples of golfing techniques in the studio. tOG Sports’ new support for the iPad delivers this, and its on screen integration with EVS clips makes it easy and fits into our workflow.” Sky Sports Golf’s new studio features the iPad-based tOG Sports telestrator, a giant video projection back wall and a golf simulator for taking actual shots based on Pinpoint technology. Everything is integrated on air so the studio-based analyst can select a VT clip of a swing from the iPad and play it on the giant screen. RT Software’s support for the iPad meant this could be achieved quickly and at almost zero cost, preserving the existing investment in tOG Sports and its telestration capability for golf. www.rtsw.co.uk
