Playout/TV facilities company ABS Broadcast has selected Trilogy Communications’ Mentor XL Master Reference Generators, while Al Jazeera Sports is using the company’s Gemini matrix intercom.
Supplied by VSC Design, the installation of the Mentor XLs at ABS Broadcast’s new 32-channel playout centre in Park Royal, London, will play an integral role in ABS’s playout centre as it manages the transmission of major television channels across the globe.
Mentor XL was selected by ABS Broadcast on the grounds that it was the only Sync Pulse Generator able to meet all the desired functionality whilst keeping to the required budget. The Mentor XL system’s innovative architecture avoids the needs for numerous option boards or factory upgrades by allowing optional features to be activated via standard IP connection.
The units are equipped with a range of options including; SD and HD Test Signals, Tri-Level Sync, Timecode, and Vector, the browsable application that allows remote configuration and monitoring of all system parameters. SD/HD references and test signals are generated simultaneously in any video standard, with independent timing ideally suited to the management of a complex multichannel operation.
The Mentor XLs have also been specified with GPS receivers, which allow for all video, timecode and audio signals to be locked to a single stable reference. The other key benefit of using GPS as the reference source is that it allows the Mentor XL to act as an NTP server for all other PC-based broadcast equipment, establishing a resilient and synchronous video and audio environment.
Meanwhile, in another significant deal, Trilogy Communications has revealed that Al Jazeera Sports has become the first customer in the Gulf region to select Trilogy’s Gemini distributed matrix intercom as part of the broadcaster’s ongoing expansion and development of the sports studios in Doha from HD to 3D.
Supplied by systems integrator TEK Signals, the project consists of nine Gemini Matrices forming a distributed network between the five primary sports studios. The installation – which includes a seamless integration with the existing Commander Intercom systems – will allow Al Jazeera to develop and expand the ongoing production of various sports programmes, including coverage and commentary on the British and European football leagues.
“Selecting the Gemini Digital Matrix Intercom from Trilogy was an easy decision to make,” commented Joseph Varghese, division manager at Tek Signals. “No other intercom available was able to provide the ease of installation, flexibility and resilience required by Al Jazeera for this project. Having worked together previously, Al Jazeera, Trilogy Communications and Tek Signals have forged a strong working relationship that has enabled us all to develop and tailor the design and implementation of this installation to the customer’s exact needs. Using our combined knowledge and skills we have been able to seamlessly integrate the system and provide the support and advice needed to meet the tight timescales on this project.
“Moreover, Trilogy has established a strong presence within this market and we have been continually impressed by Trilogy’s commitment to innovation within the intercom market and their dedication to customer support, and look forward to working with them on future, exciting [projects] in the region.”
