Systems integrator TSL has begun work to upgrade and relocate IMG’s UK media facility, to enable the provision of full HD services, production and distribution from a new site in Stockley Park, near London. Due for completion in August 2013, the new facility will be built around an advanced Atos Broadcast Network Control System (BNCS) and will house four 3Gbs HD main studios, nine galleries for live production of programmes such as ESPN’s Barclay’s Premier League matches and numerous other areas including an MCR, radio suites, tape transfer and playout facilities. TSL will also install a vast post production space and transmission area for the media production and distribution of content for rights holders and broadcasters worldwide, including global television feeds for the English Premier League. “We chose TSL as the systems integrator based on its depth of experience, their independence from third parties and its capacity to deliver to specification and on time”, said David Shield, SVP global director of Engineering & Technology at IMG. “Having issued an extensive RFP for this project, TSL’s response, in terms of technical and commercial scope, was exactly what we were looking for. TSL also built our current facilities at Chiswick Park and proved to be a reliable, knowledgeable and discerning company with which to work, so we’re delighted to have them working with us again”. The IT-based BNCS will sit at the heart of the facility to streamline workflow and provide IMG operators with a more intuitive interface for quicker turn-around and delivery of native and re-packaged content across all forms of media, including TV, audio, fixed media, inflight and closed circuit, broadband and mobile. Core equipment for the project includes Sony Vision Mixers, Pebble Beach playout automation, Lawo Audio desks, Riedel communications, Miranda routers and multiviewers, Axon infrastructure equipment and Atos BNCS control system. “We’re delighted to be working with IMG again and that we are recognised as specialists in facilitating modern sports broadcasting and multiplatform delivery”, commented Bruce MacGregor, director of Solutions, TSL Systems.www.tsl.co.uk
