MultiDyne Video & Fiber Optic Systems is acquiring the assets of MRMC (Mark Roberts Motion Control), a developer of robotic camera systems, motion control solutions, and automated camera tracking technologies for broadcast, digital cinema, sports production, and live events. As part of the transaction, MultiDyne has established MultiDyne Robotics and Motion Control, a new company that will maintain the MRMC brand. The acquisition brings MRMC’s core technologies, intellectual property, manufacturing capabilities, and key engineering expertise into the MultiDyne organization, creating a powerful combination of complementary technologies that extend MultiDyne’s reach to the very beginning of the content creation chain.

[The Experience Economy, Revisited]

"MRMC is a world-class brand with an exceptional reputation for innovation, engineering excellence and customer success," said Frank Jachetta, CEO of MultiDyne. "This acquisition represents a natural and highly strategic extension of our business. MultiDyne has long been focused on the transport, processing and management of video, audio and data signals. MRMC places us at the point of image acquisition itself, allowing us to participate in a much broader portion of the production workflow. Together, our technologies create a powerful end-to-end ecosystem for content creators, broadcasters and live production professionals worldwide."

MRMC has been involved with camera robotics and motion control for six decades, developing solutions that enable precision camera movement, automated tracking, virtual production workflows, and cinematic motion control for some of the world's leading broadcasters, filmmakers and content creators. The move comes during a milestone year for MultiDyne as the company celebrates its 50th anniversary.

The MultiDyne and MRMC product portfolios have virtually no overlap. Instead, the two companies serve many of the same customers, channel partners, and markets with complementary technologies. MultiDyne's fiber-optic transport, camera interface, and signal processing solutions are widely used throughout professional production environments to move video, audio, and data across complex infrastructures. MRMC's robotic camera systems, tracking solutions, motion control rigs, and automated production technologies complement those workflows by controlling the physical movement, positioning, and automation of the cameras themselves.

The combined portfolio will strengthen MultiDyne's value proposition across broadcast television, sports production, digital cinema, virtual production, corporate AV, houses of worship, live events and emerging content creation markets. The acquisition also significantly strengthens MultiDyne's international presence, particularly in Europe, where MRMC has built a respected global brand and loyal customer base. MultiDyne plans to maintain MRMC's operations in the United Kingdom while preserving the engineering expertise, product innovation and customer relationships that have made the company a trusted partner throughout the industry.

"MRMC has earned tremendous loyalty throughout the broadcast and cinema industries because of its innovation, product quality and commitment to customer success," said Neil Maycock, a member of the MultiDyne leadership team, who will now run MRMC as managing director. "Our priority is ensuring continuity for customers, partners and ongoing projects while creating a strong foundation for future growth. We see tremendous opportunities to expand the reach of MRMC technologies through MultiDyne's global sales channels, customer relationships and long-term investment strategy."

Consider the expectations of your clients officially raised.

The continuing convergence of broadcast and Pro AV technologies means corporate, education, and other verticals want broadcast-quality productions—as do their audiences—coupled with systems that are more user-friendly and a lot less expensive than traditional broadcast studios. So, what technologies are driving the next phase of convergence?

From the integrator's perspective, Ben Dandola-Grubb, VP of technical integration for Verrex, said the next phase of convergence will be driven by technologies that blend high-end AV hardware with software-centric, IP-based workflows. "We’re seeing clients pair advanced cameras and professional audio with IP standards like Dante, NDI, and SRT, while simple tools like OBS and Stream Deck controllers make sophisticated graphics accessible to everyone," he explained. "As these ecosystems mature, the shift toward full AVoIP—eventually including ST 2110 and IMPX—will accelerate even faster."

For Will Waters, principal product manager for Audinate, the most significant driver is a shift toward software-defined media platforms, which can be seen increasingly in universities, enterprises, and media organizations. "Organizations are moving away from fixed, device-centric systems toward environments where routing, processing, and control are implemented in software," he said. "This abstraction allows workflows to be deployed across on-premises infrastructure, virtualized environments, and cloud services using consistent management and security models."

To that end, KVM will also have a part to play in the next chapter of convergence. Anna Kozel, VP of marketing for VuWall | G&D, said technologies like KVM over IP are "enabling operators to access and manage video and data workflows more flexibly across facilities and remote locations. At the same time, centralized management platforms are becoming critical, allowing teams to control video walls, sources, and KVM systems through a single intuitive interface."

Security is also a major driver, Kozel added, particularly in government and enterprise environments where secure remote access, encryption, and compliance with standards like Federal Information Processing Standards (FIPS) and Common Criteria are essential. "Ultimately, convergence is about operational flexibility, bringing AV, IT, and broadcast workflows together on a shared, scalable infrastructure," she said.

Emphasis on Infrastructure

Sebastian Mucha, MultiDyne's executive VP of sales and strategy, said IPMX is accelerating convergence by “bringing broadcast-grade IP transport into Pro AV without the complexity traditionally associated with ST 2110. This lowers the barrier to entry for high-performance IP systems.”

Distributed workflows—where processing happens closer to the source, rather than centralized control rooms—is another trend. “This aligns with both Pro AV scalability and broadcast remote production models. Plus, cloud is increasingly used for orchestration, monitoring, and workflow management,” Mucha explained.

Jonathan Lyth, product director for enterprise media at Grass Valley, agrees that software-defined production and hybrid cloud will be key drivers. "Instead of tying specific functions to fixed hardware, teams can use the same production capabilities across different events and locations, scaling them up or down as needed," Lyth offered. "This makes it far easier to produce more content without rebuilding systems each time or buying infrastructure to cover occasional peak events."

With software as a driving force, IP networking will (not surprisingly) continue to play a huge role in convergence. "Moving video workflows from the world of baseband into IP is opening new doors, especially as more timing-aware technology surfaces, and high-bandwidth, managed IP equipment becomes easier and more cost-efficient to set up and maintain," said Abe Abt, senior product consultant for AJA Video Systems. "Tools have come down substantially in price, and we’ll continue to see more of this in the years to come."

"As everything moves to an IP infrastructure, the next 'phase' is software-defined workflows all running on COTS servers either on prem, in data centers, or in the public cloud, eliminating bespoke hardware," added Rick Seegull, SVP of technology and business development for Riedel Communications. "These innovations will promote true interoperability between vendors’ software within the broadcast, Pro AV, and IT systems, having all software access the media directly in memory and enabling seamless communication across multi-vendor environments. By supporting open standards and flexible architectures, they allow customers to select best-of-breed components while building scalable, future-ready workflows."

A Place for AI

AI will play a role, Lyth acknowledged, but he said its early impact will be largely focused on reducing day-to-day workloads, rather than changing how Pro AV content is created. "Tasks like system monitoring, tagging content, preparing clips, and checking quality control can increasingly be automated, helping teams to deliver more frequent productions more reliably, making live production easier to repeat and manage at scale," he said.

According to Abt, some live sports networks are already using AI to quickly produce highlight reels for distribution on social media platforms. "AI is another emerging technology that both industries are just beginning to explore, and it's already showing a lot of promise for enhancing media asset management and the setup and configuration of live productions," he added.

While Waters said AI and automation will support monitoring, diagnostics, provisioning, and content management, their value depends on a strong foundation of software and management. "For decision-makers, convergence means applying IT and platform thinking to media operations. Prioritizing vendors that offer flexible deployment models, open APIs, and systems proven at scale helps create ecosystems that balance usability, control, and long-term sustainability," he said.

Michael Bergeron, Panasonic's senior category manager–advanced video production technology, believes the challenge with technologies such as cloud or AI is determining where each has its maximum benefit. "We tried cloud everywhere in the early 2020s," he recalled, "and it stuck in places where scalability was required or where rarely used assets needed to be delivered—cases in which on-prem support of the same functionality might be cost prohibitive. We may see a similar shakedown with AI. GenAI content is still too easily recognized as such, but AI with a human operator is a force multiplier."

There were quite a few partnerships announced last week. AtlasIED and NETGEAR AV made headlines, while Almo Pro AV extended its partnership with Hall Research. There were many others collaborating with each other, so get caught up with the week that was in this weeks Pro AV Newsmakers.

[This Is the Way: Share Some Popcorn with Grogu]

People on the Move

MultiDyne Expands APAC Presence with Appointment of Sales Director

MultiDyne Video & Fiber Optic Systems appointed Alex Collins as sales director, APAC. Collins brings more than 20 years of experience across the broadcast and Pro AV industries, including more than a decade of leadership and channel management expertise throughout Southeast Asia and broader APAC markets. He leads regional sales development, channel partnerships, customer engagement, and business expansion initiatives across APAC.

Prior to joining MultiDyne, Collins held senior regional sales and channel management positions with Vizrt, Ross Video, and Nevion, where he developed go-to-market strategies, expanded reseller ecosystems, and drove adoption of advanced live production, IP-based workflow, and fiber infrastructure technologies throughout the region.

Partnerships

AtlasIED Announces Partnership with NETGEAR AV

AtlasIED has partnered with NETGEAR AV. The collaboration aligns AtlasIED’s expertise in intelligent audio and security solutions with NETGEAR’s leadership in managed network switching and AV over IP infrastructure.

At the core of the partnership is a focus on optimizing audio deployments over high-performance networks. By pairing AtlasIED's Atlas+Fyne POE++ loudspeaker solutions with NETGEAR AV managed switches, customers benefit from simplified installation, reduced infrastructure complexity, and consistent audio performance across a wide range of commercial environments.

Almo Pro AV and Hall Research Expand Distribution Partnership

Almo Pro AV and Hall Research have expanded their distribution partnership. Through this agreement, Hall Research’s newly aligned portfolio of five AV-focused brands, including Atlona, is now fully available through Almo Pro AV.

Almo Pro AV customers, many of whom have long relied on Atlona solutions, now have access to a broader portfolio of complementary AV brands under the Hall Research umbrella, including Hall Technologies(healthcare), Atlona (switching and signal extension), Captivate(collaboration tools), Javelin (cabling/accessories), and Gain Audio(audio/speakers). Importantly, the Atlona products, and value proposition remain unchanged, with continuity in innovation, quality, and support, now backed by a stronger parent organization.

AVer Solutions Obtain HETMA Approved Status

AVer Information's TR335 AI Auto Tracking PTZ Camera, MT300N NDI Matrix Tracking Box, and PTZ310UV2 PTZ Camera have received HETMA Approved Status. Evaluated by a committee of higher education technology managers, the TR335, MT300 and PTZ310UV2 each earned an overall score of “Exceeds Expectations,” recognizing performance, reliability and integration capabilities in higher education environments.

The TR335 is a 4K AI Auto Tracking PTZ camera featuring 30x optical zoom and support for 4K resolution at 60 frames per second. Designed for broadcasting, streaming and recording applications, the TR335 includes 3G-SDI, HDMI, USB and IP outputs, enabling integration across a range of AV environments. The MT300N is an NDI matrix tracking box that enables AVer Pro AV cameras to function as voice-tracking systems through preset point configuration, eliminating the need for a dedicated in-room PC or server. The PTZ310UV2 is a UHD PTZ camera delivering 4K resolution at 60 fps with 12x optical zoom and 8MP image capture. Designed for broadcasting and streaming, it delivers low-latency IP video over standard networks and simultaneous output via HDMI, NDI, and IP.

L-Acoustics Named DATALAND's Immersive Audio Partner

Co-founders Refik Anadol and Efsun Erkılıç reveal further details of DATALAND, the Museum of AI Arts, opening to the public on June 20, 2026. Representing a paradigm shift in the museum-going experience, Anadol and Erkılıç unveil Data.Link, an intelligent system connecting art, architecture, and audience through advanced AI systems, real-time data assimilation, integrated technologies, and wearable devices. Made possible through collaborations with NVIDIA, Google Cloud, Founding Olfactory Partner L’Oréal Luxe, Epson, L-Acoustics, Empatica, LG Electronics, Gensler, ARUP, Scaleable, Valerie Confections, and Constellation Immersive, an affiliate of Creative Artists Agency (CAA), DATALAND emerges as the world’s first omni-sensory museum.

Sound is elemental, immediate, and inseparable from how we experience the world around us. DATALAND's 250-speaker audio ecosystem is driven by L-ISA immersive sound from L-Acoustics. L-ISA technology delivers a living soundtrack that evolves in real time, woven from original music by composer and sound designer Kerim Karaoğlu, the acoustic ecology of the rainforest, and the sacred healing songs of the Yawanawá. L-Acoustics L-SMART technology continuously monitors and optimizes power consumption to average 30% greater efficiency, with zero compromise to the sound. Suspending audio dynamically across a three-dimensional canvas—in front of, above, and entirely surrounding the visitor—DATALAND achieves a spatial resolution with no precedent in any permanent museum anywhere in the world.

Violet Audio US Launches to Support North American Initiative in Live Sound

Melbourne, Australia's Violet Audio has formed Violet Audio US, a new distribution company established to bring the company’s professional audio solutions to the North American live sound market. Industry veteran Phil Wagner is president of the new entity, which oversees sales, marketing, training, and support for the evolving Violet Audio product range across the United States, Canada, and Mexico.

Violet Audio US will focus initially on the rollout of the dMix 128, a high-performance live mixing platform designed to deliver advanced processing power and flexibility at a highly competitive price point. Violet Audio US’s launch reflects a broader global expansion strategy for the brand, following a new partnership with the company’s headquarters.

Watchfire Partners with WOW

Watchfire has been selected to manufacture the advanced digital display technology powering the WOW’S EON Network, a synchronized communications platform across Inglewood’s Sports & Entertainment District located in Greater Los Angeles.

The network represents a major leap forward for the digital signage industry, demonstrating how advanced display manufacturing and engineering can transform static infrastructure into dynamic, city-scale communication systems. Developed by WOW, the EON Network is an infrastructure project that turns traditional digital signage into a unified, city-scale storytelling medium. Phase 1 features over 60 high-resolution screens across 10 strategic locations surrounding SoFi Stadium, Intuit Dome, and the Kia Forum.

To bring the concept to life, Watchfire utilized its new high-resolution 4mm outdoor display platform to meet the technical demands of synchronized, street-level storytelling at scale.

MultiDyne is turning 50. Nanolumens is celebrating two decades with a new headquarters. Advanced Systems Group, Planar, Renkus-Heinz, and Chryon made strategic personnel moves. It was another hectic week on the Pro AV news wire.

[FORTÉ Research Dives into AI, Collaboration Spaces]

Sit back, relax, and get caught up with your weekly does of Pro AV Newsmakers.

[Apogee Insight Acquires PMA Research]

Ampetronic | Listen Technologies Names Vice President of Human Resources

Listen Technologies and Ampetronic have named Chris Linford VP of human resources (HR). Linford has been a consultant to Ampetronic | Listen Technologies for the past 11 months as the two brands have aligned leadership, resources, and over 65 years of combined experience under Allvida, a group of accessibility-focused companies. Linford continues to work with Maile Keone, president and CEO of Ampetronic | Listen Technologies, and the executive team in this new role.

In her role, Linford helps shape the culture at Ampetronic | Listen Technologies as she oversees talent acquisition, employee experience, performance management, compliance, learning and development, and total rewards. She ensures HR practices are scalable, compliant, and aligned with the organization’s mission.

Linford is an experienced senior HR executive and people leader. She has expertise in HR operations, succession planning, organizational development, and diversity and inclusion. Previously, Linford held senior HR and chief people officer roles at organizations across the financial services industry. She holds the Senior Professional in Human Resources (SPHR) certification and the SHRM Senior Certified Professional (SHRM-SCP) designation.

ASG Names Kevin Poole Senior Project and Support Manager

Advanced Systems Group (ASG) has appointed Kevin Poole as senior project and support manager within the ASG Workflow and Tools practice. Poole’s role is a newly created position designed to strengthen project execution and post-sale client support within the group. Poole reports to Joe Marchitto, CTO, Workflow and Tools.

The bulk of his responsibilities involves managing the team’s project coordination and supporting its Southern California client base. In this role, he serves as a central point of contact for its customers once a project moves forward, helping ensure deployments run smoothly and issues are resolved quickly.

Eric Wolff Joins Chyron as Director of Venues Sales, North America

Chyron announced today the appointment of Eric Wolff as director of venues sales, North America. Wolff comes to Chyron with a wealth of relevant experience having served previously as director, broadcast operations and media production for T-Mobile Arena, with prior stints in lead production roles with the Arizona Cardinals, Van Wagner (NCAA Championships), and the Pittsburgh Pirates. Initially, Wolff’s role focuses on growth in the collegiate and minor league space.

"I’m incredibly proud and excited to join such a world‑class organization as Chyron," Wolff said. "In my 35 years in this industry, Chyron has always stood out as a true leader, and it’s an honor to now be part of the team. I can’t wait to contribute to the work of the best in the business."

Planar Expands U.S. Sales Force with West Coast Additions

Planar has expanded its U.S. sales force with the addition of two West Coast team members. The company recently welcomed a new regional sales director as well as business development manager for the company’s Consultants, Architect and Design (CAD) Group.

Antonio Dias leads Planar’s sales initiatives across the Western U.S. as regional sales director. He brings nearly 20 years of Pro AV industry experience, joining from Crestron Electronics where he held senior leadership roles supporting consultants, resellers, industry partners and end users. Recognized for his collaborative leadership style and strategic approach, Dias is well-positioned to strengthen relationships and deliver value for Planar’s reseller partners and customers throughout the region. He will report to Tani Klein, VP of North America Sales, and be supported by a seasoned team of regional account managers and applications engineers across the Western U.S.

Planar also welcomed Douglas Schoenherr as the company’s CAD Group business development manager for the Western U.S. He joins with nearly 30 years of experience in the Pro AV industry with a strong focus on consultant engagement and specification development. He previously served as consultant liaison at Biamp, where he cultivated strong relationships with AV/IT and MEP design consultants across the Southwest U.S. His experience working with the consultant community will help strengthen Planar’s engagement with architects, designers and technical consultants, supporting the specification of Planar displays across a wide range of applications. He is based in the Denver area and will report to Lainie Mataras, general manager of the CAD Group, and work closely with Applications Engineers Orlando Helena and Dusty Masanz.

Renkus-Heinz Welcomes Tony Jacques

Renkus-Heinz is continuing to expand its Tech Support operations with the latest addition of Tony Jacques as applications engineer. He serves as a key technical resource for integrators, consultants, and end users, providing hands-on guidance and supporting the deployment of Renkus-Heinz solutions across a wide range of applications.

Jacques’ audio background has taken him all over the world, working in a range of fields that have provided him with the expertise to strengthen the customer support of one of the world’s leading loudspeaker manufacturers. His career spans live sound, touring, installation, broadcast, and event production, giving him a comprehensive understanding of the challenges audio professionals face every day.

Events

TOLA Expo 2026 Set for Its Largest Gathering Yet in Dallas

The 6th Annual TOLA Expo returns to Dallas on May 6–7, 2026, at the Dallas Trade Mart (Atrium), bringing together custom integration professionals from across Texas, Oklahoma, Louisiana, Arkansas—and beyond for the region’s largest residential technology trade show and education event.

Building on the success of the 2025 Expo—which welcomed nearly 200 integration companies and more than 500 attendees—TOLA Expo 2026 will deliver an expanded show floor, new technologies, and increased participation from across the custom integration channel.

Hosted in the Grand Pavilion Atrium at the Dallas Trade Mart, the four-story, glass-ceiling venue creates an engaging environment for hands-on interaction with factory experts from leading brands including Lutron, Nice, DMF, Samsung, Kaleidescape, Sonance, Proluxe, eero, Josh.ai, Epson, and more.

Partnerships, Anniversaries, and More

Bogen Communications Announces Technology Partnership With 911Cellular

Bogen Communications has announced a technology partnership with 911Cellular, a developer of critical communication technology, including silent panic buttons, mass communication software, and an incident management platform for K-12 schools nationwide. The integration connects 911Cellular panic buttons with Bogen Communications’ Nyquist IP-based paging platform to enhance emergency notification and response coordination.

Through the integration, when a 911Cellular panic button is activated, an alert is transmitted to the Nyquist system. The Nyquist platform can then broadcast emergency messages across multiple audio and visual channels, helping ensure that staff and other designated stakeholders are promptly informed of the situation and provided with response instructions. The integration is designed to reduce response times and limit incident severity by ensuring that key details surrounding an event are communicated quickly and clearly. By linking 911Cellular’s blend of software and hardware-based alerting tools with Bogen Communications’ infrastructure, schools can align notification workflows with established safety protocols.

Green Hippo Debuts Hands-On Hippotizer Media Server Training at Pixel Academy

Green Hippo launched its new Hippotizer Media Server training courses at Pixel Academy, a purpose‑built AV learning hub combining hands-on creativity, real‑world technology, and expert‑led instruction. Green Hippo and sister brand tvONE, both part of ACT Entertainment, have created Pixel Academy to equip the next generation of live events and AV professionals with the skills to deliver immersive and interactive visual experiences.

Based inside Green Hippo’s R&D Innovation Centre in Maidenhead, just 20 minutes from London Heathrow, the Academy gives direct access to the latest high‑performance tools, including the Hippotizer MX Series Media Servers, CALICO PRO creative video processors, and a full suite of high-resolution LED displays that create a truly immersive space.

MultiDyne Celebrates 50 Years of Innovation

MultiDyne Video & Fiber Optic Systems is celebrating its 50th anniversary as NAB Show 2026 approaches, marking five decades of innovation, customer-focused engineering, and sustained growth across the broadcast and live production industries.

Founded in 1976 by Vincent Jachetta, an Italian immigrant and NBC engineer, MultiDyne’s story began with a single breakthrough product developed in the family basement: the TS-1, the broadcast industry’s first portable test signal generator. That invention not only launched the company, but also earned MultiDyne its first Emmy Award and established a guiding philosophy that continues today: identify real-world challenges and engineer precise solutions.

MultiDyne has since evolved from a small family-run operation into a globally recognized provider of fiber-optic transport, signal processing and live production solutions. Along the way, the company has achieved major milestones including two Emmy Awards for technological innovation, strategic business acquisitions, and significant international growth with the 2023 opening of its European office.

In recent years, MultiDyne has experienced its strongest period of growth, achieving record performance while expanding its operational infrastructure, engineering resources and product portfolio. This momentum has been fueled by increasing demand across live production environments spanning broadcast, digital cinema, and professional AV markets.

Nanolumens Marks 20th Anniversary With New Headquarters 

Nanolumens is celebrating its 20th anniversary in 2026 with the opening of a new headquarters in Duluth, GA. The milestone marks two decades of growth for the privately-owned and operated U.S. company, founded in 2006 and based in the greater Atlanta area since its inception.

The new headquarters is nearly 45,000 square feet and consolidates the company’s offices and warehouse operations into a single location. The building includes dedicated warehouse space and increased vertical storage capacity designed to support logistics, product fulfillment and spare product and module management. The move allows Nanolumens to scale operations more efficiently as demand for LED visualization technologies continues to grow.

A major feature of the new headquarters is a 2,500-square-foot demonstration showroom that showcases Nanolumens’ display technologies in real-world environments. The showroom includes application-focused zones highlighting use cases such as control room environments, immersive installations and architectural display systems. The showroom integrates technologies from ecosystem partners, including NovaStar, Barco, Megapixel, 7thSense, Pixera, and Smart Monkeys, and content from studios such as Gentilhomme, Render Impact, and Float4, highlighting how display technology, processing platforms, and digital content work together in deployed visual environments. The integrated setup reflects Nanolumens’ approach to supporting complete visualization systems rather than standalone display hardware.

Transformation Entertainment Group to Distribute MuxLab Products in the U.S. Market

Transformation Entertainment Group (TEG) has entered into a new distribution partnership with MuxLab, a global manufacturer of professional AV signal distribution solutions. The agreement expands TEG’s portfolio with MuxLab’s extensive line of AV over IP, matrix switching, signal extension, and connectivity products.

TEG will immediately begin offering MuxLab’s full line of products, including AV over IP systems, HDMI/USB extenders, matrix switchers, and broadcast‑grade connectivity solutions.

Pro AV around the Globe

Eastern Acoustic Works (EAW) has a new distribution partnership with Clean Sound & Light SRL, a Romania-based provider of professional audio, lighting and staging solutions. Through the agreement, Clean Sound & Light will serve as the official distributor of EAW products throughout Romania. The partnership marks an important step in strengthening EAW’s presence in Eastern Europe while reintroducing the brand to the Romanian market. With extensive experience supporting AV and staging projects of all sizes, Clean Sound & Light brings strong market knowledge and a project-focused approach that aligns with EAW’s commitment to delivering high-performance, reliable sound solutions.

LEA Professional is expanding its European reach through a newfound partnership with Copenhagen, Denmark-based distributor Matrix Sales. As a premier AV distributor in Denmark, the Matrix Sales team has proven its expertise as it delivers quality AV technology to its customers. Through this partnership, Matrix Sales will represent LEA Professional’s Network Connect series of professional amplifiers and companion Dante Connect series featuring Dante and AES67 connectivity.

Pliant Technologies announced a new distribution partnership with Audio Tecnologias based in Barcelona, Spain. The agreement expands Pliant’s presence in the Spanish market and strengthens Audio Tecnologias’ portfolio of advanced communication systems for broadcast, live events, education, industrial, and corporate applications. Founded in 2008, Audio Tecnologias specializes in the sale of professional audio products and the design and implementation of integrated communication solutions. Over the years, the company has delivered a range of high-profile projects across Spain.

Roland Professional A/V has announced the appointment of DWR Distribution as the official distributor for its product range in South Africa. This partnership represents an important step in Roland’s strategy to expand its presence across the African Pro AV market and strengthen support for integrators, production companies, houses of worship, corporate AV teams, and content creators across the region.

ISE 2026 is coming, set to open its doors on Feb. 3 at Fira de Barcelona. To prepare you for the show, SCN is bringing you product showcases, featuring solutions to see on the show floor.

[ISE Insiders 2026: Blackmagic Design Dishes on Convergence, AVoIP, and SMPTE ST-2110 Standards]

Today, we take a look at the world of Pro AV and broadcast convergence with solutions from Telycam, Marshall, Follow-Me, Ross Video, MultiDyne, and Arkona for broadcast, live-events, and more, as well as a look at what AVIXA TV will be up to on the show floor.

Hybrid Broadcast Production Will Drive the AVIXA TV Studio at ISE 2026

The AVIXA TV Studio will showcase the latest broadcast AV solutions with livestreaming, podcast recordings, and hands-on demos. Using on-premises and cloud-based technologies, the studio provides a local control room at the show, and for the first time, remote camera switching from Ross Video’s North America office.

AVIXA TV demonstrates the possibilities for storytelling, virtual production, and collaboration within a high-end production environment. At ISE, the AVIXA TV Studio is bringing this award-winning content to the show, providing inspiration and education to the AV community. The AVIXA TV Studio is powered by Ross Video, AI Media, AWS, Barco, Crestron, CueScript, Diversified, Forecast, Ikan, ProCyc, PTZ Optics, Resi, Telestream, and Shure.

ISE attendees will have the opportunity to see the new and innovative AV tech all in one location. From cameras and audio equipment to AR graphics and immersive virtual environments, the studio brings it all together to reflect real-world broadcast scenarios. The space features virtual and green screen production and an anchor desk for lively discussions.

Beyond technology, the AVIXA TV Studio encourages collaboration and creativity. The studio will host workshops each day of the show at 13:00 (1 p.m. local time), where attendees can talk with industry experts from AVIXA, Ross Video, and other production partners to get up close with all the technology inside the AVIXA TV Studio.

Arkona to Showcase IT and Enterprise Deployment

Arkona technologies GmbH will demonstrate how its software-defined media infrastructure extends well beyond traditional broadcast environments at booth 5.K800. At the show, the team will present a range of case studies which highlight how the same core technologies trusted by broadcasters are increasingly being adopted by some IT-led, Pro AV, and enterprise technology companies.

One example will be that of a recent deployment at a client’s Los Angeles facility. There, arkona, together with technology partner manifold, delivered a highly complex IP system built around 24 AT300 Programmable Acceleration Cards, supporting extensive video and audio processing. The installation includes a manifold multiviewer and UDX processing with more than 250 unique input sources displayed across 54 UHD monitor outputs, alongside 64 simultaneous up, down and cross-conversion services.

Visitors to the stand will also be able to explore arkona’s full product range in person. This includes BLADE//runner, the company’s flagship software-defined platform for routing, processing and signal management across SDI and ST 2110 infrastructures. Also on display will be solutions from technology partner manifold, including manifold CLOUD, which extends ultra-low-latency multiviewing, conversion and processing into virtualized and distributed environments. Together, the two platforms demonstrate how broadcast-grade performance can be delivered in flexible architectures suited to enterprise, Pro AV, gaming, and IT-centric deployments.

Follow-Me to Showcase Latest Performer Tracking Innovations

Follow-Me will showcase its complete range of flexible performer tracking solutions that scale with venues and productions of any size in Hall 6 at booth 6P900. Its manual and auto-tracking systems enable seamless integration with any lighting console, video, sound, and automation system on the market.

The Follow-Me manual performer tracking system can track up to six performers. The system works independent from any fixture manufacturer and can control any lighting fixture capable of pan and tilt movements. Fixtures can be deployed as general lighting and dedicated follow spots. Lighting designers can merge and integrate with their choice of lighting console, or, via Posi Stage Net (PSN) and Open Sound Control (OSC), with immersive audio processors, media servers and stage automation.

The Follow-Me automated performer tracking system can track an unlimited number of performers. The system works as a hybrid with both manual and automated tracking. The innovative system utilizes RF tags placed on performers that communicate with antennas positioned across the performance area. By receiving accurate real-time positioning information, it creates a powerful auto-tracking system with access to all Follow-Me UI features

Marshall Electronics to Highlight CV355-27X-ND3 Camera

Marshall Electronics will showcase the CV355-27X-ND3 Optical Zoom NDI (NDI HX2, NDI HX3) Camera at booth 4N900. Designed for users seeking high-quality video with flexible integration into their existing workflows, this camera utilizes a professional-grade 8.5-megapixel sensor to capture crisp HD video up to 1920x1080 at 60fps with support for all HD formats. Its straightforward design, ease of use and NDI capabilities make this camera a valuable tool for a variety of professional A/V requirements.

The CV355-27X-ND3 features a 27X optical zoom block, providing a large zoom range from 5.56-150mm. Its horizontal angle-of-view starts at 60 degrees at the wide end to 3.2 degrees zoomed in, maintaining image crispness throughout this range.

The camera includes the NDI (NDI HX2, NDI HX3) video-over-IP protocol, allowing for high-quality, low-latency video to be transferred over a standard IP network. NDI preserves visual quality, frame accuracy and source synchronization. NDI also opens up a wide range of NDI Tools that are available to make this new camera easily discoverable, controllable, adjustable and consumable into NDI workflows. The camera offers the convenience of NDI HX2|HX3, 3G/HDSDI and HDMI simultaneous outputs with stereo audio embedding.

MultiDyne Crescendo Series Makes

MultiDyne Video & Fiber Optic Systems is preparing to ship its Crescendo Series, a new anchor in its next generation of audio and signal processing tools. MultiDyne’s latest in-house designed audio monitor, the C16-AM-12G is engineered to redefine embedded audio monitoring for all demanding production environments. MultiDyne will apply the C16-AM-12G’s modernized design and broadcast-quality feature set across future Crescendo Series monitors.

While engineered for broadcast precision, the unit directly answers growing demand in Pro AV environments—from corporate production suites to large-venue control rooms—where hybrid SDI/IP workflows are rapidly expanding. The base unit comes standard with 12G-SDI support, with optional add-ons for Dante or ST 2110-30 to support audio-over-IP workflows. MultiDyne will demonstrate the C16-AM-12G to AV audiences for the first time at ISE 2026 (Stand 5L150), and will be accepting pre-orders on the floor.

The C16-AM-12G’s modernized design represents optimized broadcast-quality audio monitoring for studios, trucks, and increasingly for ProAV integrators building advanced auditoriums, briefing centers, and flypacks. Its compact 1RU form factor delivers full dynamic range and exceptional clarity, supported through 16-channel audio monitoring. Customers are assured confidence monitoring in challenging acoustic spaces and high-noise machine rooms found in enterprise and event-production facilities.

Ross Video Launched Vertex and Expanded Solutions for Broadcast AV and Sports and Entertainment

Ross Video will debut Vertex and showcase new capabilities for the broadcast AV and sports and entertainment markets at booth 4K500.

Vertex became part of the Ross Video portfolio following the company’s acquisition of ioversal at the end of 2025, strengthening Ross Video’s expansion into experiential technologies and further supporting the needs of enterprise studios and large-venue environments. Demonstrations will illustrate how Vertex, together with tools like XPression Tessera, and Ultrix, enables: immersive, synchronized audience experiences; streamlined venue operations; advanced projection mapping and large-scale productions; greater creative flexibility and simplified control workflows.

Ross will also highlight how technologies such as Quorum, Media I/O, and Streamline Pro support scalable, multi-space production workflows; consistent branding and content delivery; reliable, broadcast-grade performance; and seamless integration with existing AV infrastructures.

Telycam to Introduce an All-in-One IP Video Switcher

Telycam will highlight Mix One, an all-in-one video production solution designed to expand and elevate its PTZ ecosystem, in booth 4K860. Purpose-built for PTZ-centric workflows, Mix One combines an encoder, decoder, monitor, video switcher, and PTZ controller within a single, compact unit, giving creators an intuitive tool for live streaming, podcasting, and professional content production.

Built on industry standards and modern AV over IP architecture, Mix One offers a scalable alternative to traditional hardware-heavy production setups. With native support for NDI®= HX, SRT, RTMP, and RTSP, users can work with low-latency IP video directly over the network with no external converters nor capture cards required. IP video routing, remote camera control, and automatic device discovery make scaling effortless. Expanding or redeploying a system is as simple as connecting new devices to the same network.

Find out more here.

Last week was a busy one in the Pro AV world. Companies like MultiDyne and Midwich Group had some restructuring with multiple hires, Absen opened a new showroom, and more partnerships were made.

[Watch Today: SCN Punch List]

Get caught up on what you missed below!

People News

Ampetronic | Listen Technologies Promotes Kim Franklin to Chief Marketing Officer

Listen Technologies and Ampetronic have promoted Kim Franklin to chief marketing officer. In this role, Franklin defines and drives global marketing strategy across Ampetronic and Listen Technologies. The brands create assistive listening solutions that make clear audio accessible in any environment or setting.

Franklin joined Listen Technologies in 2014 and most recently was global vice president of marketing. Franklin has formulated and implemented strategic marketing initiatives that have helped Listen Technologies increase brand awareness and revenue.

EAW Welcomes Chris Wilson as Education and Training Engineer

Eastern Acoustic Works (EAW) appointed Chris Wilson as education and training engineer. In his new role at EAW, Wilson will lead both in-person and virtual product certification sessions while also developing general education trainings on audio fundamentals including system design, the physics of sound, and loudspeaker technology.

Wilson brings over two decades of experience as an audio engineer, trainer and product specialist, with a career spanning live sound, system design, electroacoustic development and technical education. Most recently, he served as a training engineer for Allen & Heath, where he delivered in-person console trainings across the country.

Wilson has also held roles with Live Nation Entertainment, Tectonic Audio Labs, Beyond LD, Six Flags Over Texas, and serves as chief technology officer at Wilson Design Labs and Rox Box Speakers, where he focuses on electroacoustic design. His wide-ranging expertise makes him uniquely equipped to bridge the gap between advanced audio technology and practical customer application.

Gérald Yven Appointed Global Real Estate Director for L-Acoustics

L-Acoustics has established a new global real estate division under the leadership of Gérald Yven as global real estate director. This strategic initiative ensures that L-Acoustics’ facilities match the excellence of its renowned audio technologies, creating inspiring environments that support innovation and collaboration for sound professionals, corporate partners, team members, and visiting artists across the company’s expanding international operations.

The real estate division will oversee L-Acoustics’ substantial investments into its global corporate and industrial real estate portfolio, coordinating major real estate projects from site acquisition and renovations to the design and construction of specialized L-Acoustics spaces such as creative studios and showrooms. This centralized approach ensures consistent implementation of L-Acoustics brand identity and operational standards across all global locations.

Yven brings extensive finance and project management expertise to his role, with previous experience in facility management at Generali and Unibail-Rodamco-Westfield. His team includes Nassieba Adref, head of maintenance operations, who ensures the smooth daily operations of facilities worldwide with in-house teams and local facility management partners, and Camille Bertrand, real estate project manager, who pilots major renovation projects and new space development when L-Acoustics acquires or leases new locations.

Andrew Goulson Named Strategic Account Manager for LEA Professional

Aligning with its mission of constant and constructive team growth, LEA Professional appointed Andrew Goulson as strategic account manager. At LEA, Goulson supports LEA's sales and expansion efforts, working closely with the team to represent LEA’s technology catalog.

Goulson has nearly 20 years of experience in the AV industry, specializing in live sound and recording engineering. He will leverage this extensive experience by collaborating nationally with LEA’s outstanding representatives and dealers.

Midwich Group Restructures for North American Operations

Midwich Group today announced a reorganization of its North American leadership structure, designed to better leverage the combined strengths of Midwich US and SFM (a Midwich Group company) while enhancing service and support across the US and Canadian markets. The new structure formalizes a holistic approach to regional leadership while maintaining the distinct business models, local leadership teams and operational independence that drive success in each market. Midwich US and SFM will be better positioned to strengthen partnerships, expand market reach, and deliver greater value to customers and vendors throughout North America.

Ghyslain Berger has been named chief executive officer for North America, assuming regional CEO responsibilities. Ghyslain has been part of SFM's executive team for over seven years, six of which as COO, and more recently as president. Chantal Baraniuk Morin assumes the dual role of chief operating officer and chief financial officer for North America. In this expanded capacity, all finance, HR, IT, and operations functions for both Midwich US and SFM will report to her leadership. She brings over six years of experience with the organization. Monique Rezaei joins as chief revenue officer for North America. A familiar face within the AV industry, Rezaei brings extensive channel experience from senior leadership positions at HP/Poly and, most recently, Microsoft. All sales, marketing, and services functions will report to Rezaei's leadership while continuing to be managed at the local level.

Tyler Brebberman has been appointed chief vendor officer for North America, taking on leadership responsibility for all business and brand Management functions across the region. He brings over 10 years of experience with Midwich to this role. Lastly, Randal Tucker transitions to the role of executive advisor to the CEO. In this strategic capacity, Tucker advises on matters of strategy and overall direction with particular interest in professional services and other strategic global business initiatives.

MultiDyne Strengthens Global Leadership Team with Key Executive Appointments

MultiDyne Video & Fiber Optic Systems announces two additions to its leadership team that underscore its commitment to innovation, expanding globally, and taking on a customer-centric strategy. Broadcast industry veteran Neil Maycock joins the company as chief marketing officer on a fractional basis, while Sebastian Mucha has been promoted to EVP of sales and strategy.

Maycock brings decades of marketing and operations experience to MultiDyne, including executive leadership roles at Grass Valley, Pebble and other familiar broadcast brands. Maycock works closely with sales and executive leadership teams within MultiDyne, while also liaising with channel partners and customers to better understand the needs of these various stakeholders and engages with various industry bodies to generate market research and insights that will prove valuable to company growth.

In his new role, Mucha oversees global sales and business strategy, focusing on growth, product alignment, and expanding MultiDyne’s international presence. Based in Europe, he continues to support EMEA operations while taking on broader global responsibilities. He’ll work closely with sales, marketing, and product teams to keep all divisions aligned under a shared vision.

Alex Dunfey Promoted to CTO at OpenDrives

OpenDrives has promoted Alex Dunfey to chief technology officer (CTO) from his former position as SVP of engineering. The promotion coincides with the soft launch of Astraeus, OpenDrives’ new cloud-native data services platform that represents a significant expansion of the company’s capabilities, which was announced in September 2025.

Before joining OpenDrives in 2023 as VP of engineering, Dunfey served as an engineer and technical lead at EMC, VMware, and Simplivity, later sharpening his skills at Amazon Web Services (AWS), where he built scalable, customer-focused solutions. At OpenDrives, Dunfey has guided the company’s transition from a traditional hardware-based storage model to a software-defined organization, aligning strategies to match an evolving landscape and consistently delivering projects on time and within budget.

Solutions360 Appoints Nate Gardner CEO After Strategic Growth Investment

Solutions360 has appointed Nate Gardner to chief executive officer, who brings extensive experience guiding software companies through stages of rapid growth and transformation. Gardner's background includes executive roles across operations, sales and finance in high-growth technology companies.

The move comes after a strategic growth investment from Northrim Horizon. With this investment, Solutions360 will accelerate the release of new artificial intelligence and automation capabilities, extend its platform into additional modules that address evolving customer needs, and broaden its network of technology and integration partners to accelerate innovation for customers.

Company News

Absen Celebrates Grand Opening of Los Angeles Showroom

Absen celebrated the grand opening of its Los Angeles Showroom, the latest addition to its network of Showrooms and Experience Centers worldwide. Absen hosted an exclusive grand opening celebration at the Los Angeles Showroom, welcoming partners, audiovisual professionals, and customer representatives. Attendees experienced first-hand the superior product quality and innovative capabilities of Absen’s cutting-edge LED technologies through live demonstrations and interactive activations.

Absen’s Los Angeles Showroom is designed to deliver hands-on demonstrations, technical training, and collaborative opportunities with key technology partners. The Los Angeles Showroom showcases Absen’s latest LED display technologies across a comprehensive range of applications, providing visitors with an immersive and hands-on experience of the company’s most innovative solutions.

The Los Angeles Showroom highlights Absen’s latest corporate and educational display solutions, including the Absen iCon Series. For high-end visualization, visitors can experience the Absen KLCOB V2 Series, which offers outstanding clarity, color accuracy and versatility for mission-critical environments. In addition, the showroom features the Absen Saturn Series, Jupiter Pro Series and Polaris Series, enabling dynamic and immersive installations that push creative boundaries. Together, these displays create a remarkable visual showcase of Absen’s products, allowing guests to discover solutions for virtual production, rental and staging, commercial displays, and more.

AVer TR335, PTZ231 and PTZ330UV2 Cameras are Certified for Microsoft Teams

AVer's TR335, PTZ231, and PTZ330UV2 cameras have obtained Microsoft Teams Certification. Delivering enhanced image quality, intelligent AI tracking, and seamless connectivity, AVer’s newly certified models enable a professional and engaging Microsoft Teams meeting experience, ensuring users stay connected and productive in any environment.

The TR335 features 4K resolution at 60 frames per second and a powerful 30X optical zoom lens, delivering cinematic image quality and precision for broadcasting, streaming and recording. The PTZ231 combines full-HD 1080p resolution with a 30X optical zoom in an enhanced design built for professional conferencing, streaming and live production. The PTZ330UV2 is designed to meet the evolving demands of professional AV applications.

Carousel, Moki Expand Strategic Partnership

Moki and Carousel have expanded their partnership to bring deeper synergies, broader market reach, and stronger value to customers deploying signage networks at scale.

The two companies first partnered in early 2021 to combine Carousel’s flexible, feature-rich CMS with Moki’s robust device management capabilities. In 2025, the partnership is being enhanced to include closer alignment between teams, cross-training on each other’s solutions, expanded co-marketing initiatives, and a joint go-to-market approach.

Together, Moki and Carousel empower organizations to deploy, operate, and scale digital signage fleets with confidence, delivering secure, compliant, and easily managed device networks while ensuring engaging, real-time content.

NSCA Releases 2025 Financial Analysis of the Industry Report

NSCA released its 2025 Financial Analysis of the Industry report. The report provides valuable, industry-specific information for systems integrators on key business fundamentals like markets served, systems and technologies offered, sales trends, labor breakdowns, and company financial health.

Drawing on insights from nearly 100 integration firms across 31 states, three Canadian provinces, and Puerto Rico, the 17th edition of NSCA’s Financial Analysis of the Industry report continues to deliver updated intelligence for integrators that want to refine their business models and stay competitive.

NSCA worked with ESG Professional Accountants, an independent research firm, to preserve confidentiality while developing this report. The firm helped collect data from the 99 integration firms that participated in the 2025 Financial Analysis of the Industry survey. Register for your copy here.

Owl Labs, Lenovo Partner to Launch AI-Powered 360-Degree Microsoft Teams Rooms Solutions

Owl Labs unveiled solutions with Lenovo to launch Lenovo-powered 360-degree Microsoft Teams Rooms (MTR-W) solutions. The collaboration combines Owl Labs' Meeting Owl 3 and 4+products with Lenovo’s ThinkSmart Core and Tiny Kit to create full-room solutions that are flexible, cost-effective, and meet the needs of both SMBs and enterprise customers.

The global room video devices market is projected to reach $7.8 Billion by 2029, according to Frost & Sullivan Video Conferencing Devices Market Report (March 2025), creating a significant opportunity for adoption of and innovation in hybrid collaboration. Owl Labs’ Meeting Owl 4+ recently completed Microsoft Teams certification, joining the Meeting Owl 3 and Owl Bar in meeting Microsoft’s rigorous standards for seamless operation and integration. This joint offering brings Microsoft Teams-certified, modular solutions to existing Owl Labs’ customers and customers of all types including SMBs looking to upgrade from basic setups, as well as to enterprises seeking easy-to-use, scalable room systems. With MTR-W devices built on a more secure, update-ready operating system, organizations gain a future-proof foundation for long-term collaboration.

Are you ready for InfoComm 2025? We are, and are bringing you all the preshow product news, exhibitor insights, and can't-miss panels and discussions to attend. Whether you can make it to Orlando or will be following from afar, we have you covered with these must-see new products.

[New Products and InfoComm Insights]

Today, check out AtlasIED, MultiDyne, Stage Precision, QuickLink, and YES TECH.

AtlasIED Highlights New Range from the Atlas+Fyne IsoFlare FS Series

Visitors to booth 5861 will see a new range from the Atlas+Fyne IsoFlare FS Series of premium surface-mount loudspeakers, additions to the Atmosphere Audio Control System, the CLA Series of Power Share amplifiers, and more.

The Atlas+Fyne FS surface mount loudspeakers deliver enhanced audio with harmonic alignment between high and low frequencies. Its IsoFlare driver ensures consistent sound, while the 60W transformer features adjustable wattage. Made from durable ABS and aluminum, it comes in 4, 6, and 8-inch sizes and is available in black and white finishes. The beauty of the entire Atlas+Fyne series (comprising FC in-ceiling and FS surface mount options) lies in its harmonious vocal consistency, which allows for a high-quality, immersive sound experience. This is true even when using different Atlas+Fyne loudspeakers positioned at varying heights and locations throughout a venue. Since both the Atlas+Fyne FC and FS utilize the same premium IsoFlare drivers, there is no difference in performance between the ceiling-mounted and surface-mounted loudspeakers.

Joining the Atmosphere family is the C-T4 series wall controller, which features a 4.3-inch programmable touchscreen, a capacitive touch volume slider, programmable action buttons, and a built-in PIR motion sensor. With seamless plug-and-play integration into the Atmosphere ecosystem, the controllers allow for effortless configuration of zones, sources, recalling actions, and more. These features enhance the Atmosphere system’s flexibility and user-friendliness in settings ranging from hospitality venues to corporate offices.

MultiDyne to Brings High-Bandwidth Transport Expertise for Fiber and IP

MultiDyne Video and Fiber Optic Systems will showcase new product design innovations that address the growing need for converged broadcast and AV solutions that work across disparate wide-bandwidth networks. At Booth 5665, MultiDyne will demonstrate the power of 12G-SDI transport and 10G extension across five core product families that have gained traction in the evolving Enterprise Broadcast AV market.

InfoComm marks the North American debut of 10G Ethernet capability in MultiDyne’s VersaBrix fiber transport series, FiberSaver wavelength-shifting multiplexers, SilverBack fiber camera adapters, NanoBrix miniature converters, and VF-9000 fiber optic transport system—all of which added 12G-SDI support over the past five years. Bringing 12G-SDI and 10GbE support together offers exception value for customers that require the high-resolution, single-cable throughput of 12G-SDI; and the capacity to transmit that high-quality video over 10GbE networks with very low latency.

Specifically, MultiDyne’s latest updates allow integrators, mobile production companies and campus technology teams to extend 10GbE copper LAN connections over greater distances by placing them onto fiber. One example is the NanoBrix NB2-10G-TRX, which provides a cost-effective miniature solution to extend 10GbE Ethernet signals over one fiber optic cable. MultiDyne is in the early stage of bringing a new generation of NanoBrix audio and video converters to market with 12G-SDI and 10GbE support, the first of which will debut at InfoComm.

Stage Precision to Showcase SP Grid

Stage Precision is set to showcase SP Grid marking the next evolution of their technology. Designed to enhance how professionals create, manage, and deploy digital experiences, SP Grid transitions Stage Precision’s core offering from a standalone software product to a comprehensive development, data management, control, and integration platform. Stage Precision will be highlighting these capabilities, alongside two new hardware products, Grid Engine and Grid Touch.

Now in an open Beta phase, SP Grid is a no-code or low-code platform aimed at simplifying the deployment of complex digital environments, enabling users of all skill levels to access cutting-edge tools to build AVLM projects of all complexities and sizes. From small-scale setups using just LiDAR sensors and touch tablets to comprehensive full building system control, SP Grid scales to fit any project. The platform enables system integrators, designers and developers to develop tailored solutions for spaces, studios and events.

SP Grid provides a versatile and creative platform to streamline project creation and deployment through its intuitive drag-and-drop interface, allowing users to quickly visualize system interconnections, calibrate devices and establish workflow automation with unprecedented ease. A key feature includes the ability to design custom user interfaces, whilst a future expansion will bring seamless import options from UI design tools, making it an attractive alternative to legacy AV control systems.

QuickLink’s Latest Variations of StudioPro Solution Make InfoComm Debut

QuickLink will present two new models of its QuickLink StudioPro video production platform, StudioPro-NDI and StudioPro-3, nooth 4643. QuickLink StudioPro is ideal for a wide range of production applications from live events to various AV scenarios including houses of worship, education, corporate, and government environments.

The 4K video production platform, QuickLink StudioPro delivers a true-to-life ultra-low latency production experience without the complexity of legacy systems. To complement its existing 12G-SDI and ST 2110 models, the StudioPro product line is now available with 3G-SDI and NDI models, fitting a range of different workflows and applications.

The new StudioPro-3 fills a need in the marketplace for an HD-version of QuickLink’s video production platform while the new StudioPro-NDI offers 10GB and 2.5GB Ethernet Interfaces. Both new variations feature a host of new features such as incorporated Reliable Rugged Chassis (RRC™) technology and built-in NewBlue Captivate graphics. Additionally, these latest enhancements were designed with the evolution of Mix/Effects (M/Es) methodology in mind and now offer complete flexibility, streamlining the creative process and resolving many of the limitations of M/Es.

YES TECH to Unveil Mega Series

YES TECH will showcase its Mega Series at booth 1114. This cabinet allows for the swift and effortless construction of colossal LED walls, utilizing 250*500mm modules within a 500*1000mm cabinet, ensuring a seamless visual experience.

Installation, whether by hanging or stacking, is a straightforward process thanks to its rapid setup system. Meticulously designed hanging locks enable exact positioning and hand-free installation, complemented by smart accessories (available separately) such as a transport dolly and touring frames. These accessories are particularly advantageous for scenarios requiring rapid deployment, such as concert tours, sports events, or live performances, where the need to assemble large video walls efficiently is paramount.

SCN: How long have you been with Multidyne, and what are your responsibilities?

Frank Jachetta: I have been a part of MultiDyne since the day my father, Vincent Jachetta, founded the company in 1976. I was in junior high at the time, and I would help my father assemble products in the basement of our family home. I joined MultiDyne in a formal role after college. It was still a family business at the time—as in my father, brother, myself and one other employee who remains with the company today.

As with any CEO, my responsibilities focus on the overall management, performance, and strategic direction of the company. Having spent nearly 50 years with the company, I have been actively involved in every part of the company at some point. Naturally, that means that some functions are closer to my heart than others. Product design and engineering is at the top of that list.

[Executive Q&A: Better Business through Software]

SCN: So, MultiDyne is in the Pro AV business now … ?

FJ: There was a tendency for some of the biggest broadcast brands to look down at the AV industry. Today, some of these same brands are relying on AV to drive sales. AV has become a very mature and active market with strong opportunities.

MultiDyne has been in the broadcast business since its inception. We evolved over time to become a leading brand and innovator for fiber optic transport. Our fiber products have always fit comfortably in the "space between”—specifically, the production trucks and in-house technicians that use our throwdown products and remote powering devices for sports and venue production. We have long-term customers that use these same products as interconnects on large corporate and university campuses. The reality is that our technologies have always served AV applications.

SCN: Would it be fair to say your new focus supports the idea that Pro AV and broadcast technologies are converging?

FJ: Most definitely. As more video and audio systems transition to IP networks, AV is increasingly conjoined with broadcast workflows. They are no longer truly disparate markets. Looking beyond campus interconnects, we see an increasing number of enterprise corporate customers coming to MultiDyne that are producing content at the same caliber of our broadcast customers. We are working with executives that want to see their internally produced content to look as high-quality and engaging as the broadcast content they watch at home. They want more than what a conference room camera can offer, and that’s where MultiDyne comes in.

But it’s not just the super high-end, as that is not always necessary in AV. Our VB Series is an ideal example of a product that is versatile to serve the needs of the AV community. These are configurable fiber transport solutions to serve any combination of video, audio, data, and Ethernet signals. They are suitable for permanent installed AV systems and as temporary throwdowns to reduce reliance on copper connections.

SCN: Even if you don’t necessarily need a longer cable run, how can Pro AV installations benefit from your VB PTZ fiber extenders?

FJ: The VB Series, or Versatile Brix products, are just that, extremely versatile. The product can be customized to a fine detail and supports power over SMPTE hybrid fiber along with POE++ for the latest generation PTZ cameras. The system supports multiple 12G/3G signals as well as HDMI, so end users can support peripheral requirements such as talent monitors, prompters, or utility transport of other signals on set that need to get to and from the control room.

Also, the VB series is used in a huge range of applications outside of PTZs. This includes the ability to send 10x 12G-SDIs from the machine room and output 10x HDMI 2.0s at the receive side or the other way around if needed. A popular application for the VB is the ability to send nine 1 GbE and or 10 GbE copper LAN connections over one fiber, with all networks being optically isolated from each other. This makes network management a snap and can also meet network division security requirements on the same fiber.

SCN: How important is 12G-SDI transport to the Pro AV industry?

FJ: 12G-SDI has become increasingly important, as it has become more affordable and easier to deploy. The fact that it can support 4K60 with 16 channels of audio and various types of metadata make it a comprehensive standard that is easy to manage. It can be somewhat distance limited over copper due to its high 12 Gbps bit rate and that is where fiber comes in. We can easily transmit 12G over 10 km (roughly 6.2 miles) of fiber and we have systems that can achieve 40 km of distance for metro applications. For intercampus and interfacility links, we can send 18x 12G-SDIs over one single-mode fiber.

SCN: Are you seeing significant interest in 8K for live production?

FJ: Yes, interest in 8K image capture has been growing and is going to increase in prominence as storage and other production tools such as switchers, graphics systems, and encoders start to support 8K. As in the past, camera and display manufacturers are leading the way and everything in the middle needs to evolve.

[The 8K Debate]

The good news is if your camera uses Quad-Link 12G to achieve 8K60, MultiDyne has you covered. The next generation SilverBack fiber camera adapter is set to support eight 12G-SDIs over the SMPTE hybrid fiber connection. The SilverBack is widely deployed in the enterprise space today for HD and 4K productions, and its universal design means the end user can pick the perfect camera system for the job.

SCN: What are some of MultiDyne’s major achievements since it was founded in 1976?

FJ: Our first major achievement returns to the family basement where I helped my father assemble the product that launched the company. That was the MultiDyne TS-1, a portable test signal generator that gave broadcasters a compact and low-cost alternative to the large, expensive, rack-mounted versions common at the time. MultiDyne was awarded its first Emmy on the TS-1 in 2017—40 years after it appeared on the market. We won our second Emmy for our SilverBack fiber camera adapters in 2023. This was an important product innovation that helped content producers convert digital cinema cameras into SMPTE studio cameras for live multi-camera productions. This is an important product for the AV market as well, as our SilverBack fiber camera adapters are lightweight cameraback systems that bring value to live concerts, sports, and worship services in addition to the TV productions we support on the broadcast side of our business.

SCN: What new Pro AV initiatives are we likely to see from MultiDyne?

FJ: We introduced our first IP Gateway products for moving SDI signals onto ST 2110 IP networks at NAB last year. We also showed these at InfoComm and there are use cases for the AV market, especially for moving compressed JPEG-X signals onto these networks. ST 2110 has very strict parameters when it comes to what technologies and processes adhere to the standard, which is often too restrictive and expensive for the AV industry. Soon, we will introduce our first IPMX gateways, and our customers can expect to see more IP-based products that use fiber optic interconnects to assist in managing a hybrid 12G-SDI and IPMX/ST 2110 IP facility.

[The Evolution of IPMX for AV-over-IP]

SCN: How can systems contractors better position themselves to profit from products and/or services you have to offer?

FJ: Our most successful system integrator partners are just that, partners. They invest the time to understand our offerings—and once they understand the power of our solutions, they can easily address complicated and demanding requirements. This approach is then reutilized for the next project and so on.

On Aug. 15, Southern Methodist University (SMU), a private university in University Park, TX, began producing its first soccer game for TV, in-venue, and online coverage from its new IP-based video production facility. Housed in a completely renovated space at the SMU Indoor Performance Center's Armstrong Fieldhouse, the 67,000-square-foot facility is centrally located on the school’s 234-acre campus.

The retrofit, which coincides with SMU's move to the Atlantic Coast Conference (ACC), involved taking the multi-level space down to a shell and rebuilding from the ground up. Now, it stands as one of the most technically advanced production facilities among the ACC’s 18 schools and maybe all of college sports. With its multi-layered sophisticated distributed architecture, any source can be routed at any destination on campus, enabling content to be produced and distributed faster and more efficiently.

Big Brand Builder

The new SMPTE ST 2110 broadcast production facility now serves as the epicenter for SMU's coverage of ACC sporting events, offering enhanced capabilities (and faster turnaround times) for live broadcasts, studio shows, videoboards, and digital content creation. While other colleges and universities have some type of hybrid IP/SDI infrastructure, there are only a handful that are fully ST 2110.

[Giants-Sized Audio Makeover]

Providing a modern example of leveraging the flexibility and robustness of a distributed IP infrastructure to connect remotely located venues on campus, the first phase of the massive project involved connecting the Washburne Soccer and Track Stadium, Moody Coliseum basketball arena, and Ford Stadium football stadium to the new production center—all supporting the SMU Athletics MustangVision sports content production department. A second phase of the project, to be completed by September, will connect more sources and the school’s aquatics, lacrosse, and tennis facilities on campus.

Since 2020, SMU had produced content on ESPN+ as part of the American Athletic Conference TV deal. It has been sharing content with all ESPN schools since then, including schools in other conferences. In 2021, SMU rebuilt an existing control room to meet the needs of ESPN linear broadcast requirements.

“The video aspect of it this project is a big reach and a big brand builder [for SMU],” said Spencer Jones, SMU assistant athletic director and director of the MustangVision team. “Our goal is to help grow the ACC Network. I can't come in there and just piddle around and be average. We want to be good partners with the ACC and ESPN. We wanted to have an environment that when they walk in here to help us produce games, they will feel comfortable with the technology and systems in place.”

Time Is of the Essence

There are many aspects to marvel at, but the most impressive might be that the project, led by Jones and his MustangVision team, was completed in a mere eight months. Initial discussions began in December 2023 with Anthony James Partners (AJP), a broadcast systems designer and tech consultant that has worked with a variety of colleges to build out their media production systems. The actual build started in February.

[Diamond Days and Displays]

“Everybody went in with the mentality, ‘This is an impossible task’,” said Mike Martin, VP of technology at AJP. “But soon we had our collective noses to the grindstone and all parties involved committed to getting it done. With everyone focused on the same goal, we knew that anything was possible.”

To get the job done, Jones brought in several vendors, working simultaneously, to help. Throughout the duration of the build, the various entities formed a collaborative working partnership. It started with AJP and then involved the university, SMU Athletics, and the Office of Information Technology (OIT) in the planning and design stages. This was followed by close coordination with GSBS Architects, which designed many of the production spaces; Clark Construction, which was responsible for building out the facility; Digital Resources, which installed the fiber connections, room lighting, and venue technical drawings; and ZTransform, which handled the control rooms and technical shop drawings.

“In order for this project to successful, we had to assign different tasks to different experts,” Jones explained. “I couldn’t put it all in one vendor’s hand and then hope it would all get done on time. As I always say, 'Hope is not a plan.'"

[Check Out the New LED Look for Penn State]

With so many teams working at the same time, Jones said there was a real challenge to synchronize the various efforts to ensure they all came together as a whole, working toward the same goal. “Throughout the project, you're hoping you don't have an engineering snafu where you build both sides of the highway independently—and you hope, when we meet in the middle, it all connects correctly,” he added.

Working the Core

The facility itself encompasses the second floor of the former workout and training space (although some athlete training still occurs there) and a partial takeover of space on the first floor. The second floor is home to the main technical operations center, complete with 15 racks of gear, a shading area, an engineering room, four control rooms, and administrative offices. Two full edit suites, a cut-in studio with greenscreen, and a main field equipment storage space are located on the first floor.

“The Armstrong Fieldhouse’s second floor was significantly underutilized, so it was an ideal place to locate the new facility,” Martin said. “The square footage is now being used to full advantage. We used every bit of space they gave us.”

[Integrators and AI]

There are also four separate control rooms inside the production facility to handle remote productions between the sports venues on campus and the new production center—two main control rooms and two digital control rooms. The control rooms are equipped with Evertz DreamCatcher systems for replay and clips. There are also two Ross Video Ultrix Acuity 3 ME switchers, two Ross Video Ultrix Carbonites, and six XPression Studio CGs. In addition, Calrec Argo audio mixing consoles handle the live and studio audio. Collectively, all of the equipment used is IP-native.

Added to the inventory of the new build are two existing 3G-SDI baseband studio control rooms based at Ford Stadium, which are fed into the new production facility's main Evertz router by a ST 2110 tie to the existing Ross Video FR-12 Ultrix Router. The house video format for all content is 1080p HDR, with extra capacity built in to produce content in 4K and even 8K should the need arise. That’s the kind of flexibility an IP infrastructure allows.

Connectivity Is Key

As for connecting all the sports venues on a fiber network, the teams deployed studio interface boxes in each of the six connected venues. Both network and wireless intercom are handled by Riedel technology, including access points deployed throughout the campus. A MultiDyne HoneyBadger venue interface unit helps manage the fiber networking between the venues and the main production facility.

[MAXHUB Welcomes Alumni to Oklahoma State with Massive Video Walls]

Sony HDC-3500 cameras were chosen for the main production studio on the second floor, HDC-3200s for field work, and numerous Panasonic PTZ cameras are permanently mounted at most of the sports venues. For example, SMU’s Styslinger/Altec Tennis Complex now has one PTZ per court, which is controlled remotely from the new production facility. Wave Central RF wireless technology is used for handheld cameras and access points inside the various venues.

AJP ran 3,288 strands of single-mode fiber between Armstrong and the new facility, 144 strands to Ford Stadium, 144 to Moody Coliseum, and 96 strands into the soccer, tennis, lacrosse, and aquatics venues. Martin said all the runs have red/blue redundancy, each with 5 Gbps throughput.

Some 400,000 feet of fiber and cabling was run and installed by Dallas-based Digital Resources. The biggest challenge was getting all the venues prepped with new conduit paths, new cabling, fiber, JBTs, panels, racks, and other equipment on a very fast timeframe. "SMU and AJP have turned an existing facility, not originally designed for broadcast, into a high-level, multi-control space," said Tim Bock, who led the project for Digital Resources.

The Digital Resources team also designed a custom lighting package with pixel tape LED lighting for the entire technical operations center and control rooms. They also installed the equipment racks, cable ladders, and custom console furniture for the new facility. That was in addition to getting the cameras, ST 2110 interfaces, lenses, outdoor PTZ cameras, and all other support gear for all the venues ready for the fall.

A New ACC Standard

SMU officials are extremely happy with the results. Martin said it's the most advanced production facility in the ACC and sets a new standard for collegiate sports broadcasting.

“I spent a lot of time talking with other experts and vendors to figure out how to do this right and to make sure we were defining and installing the latest version of a 2110 system,” Martin said. “But to go with the complete Evertz IP core and take that technology all the way out to the edge is something we’re most proud of on this project. We did everything that we could do to bring a 2110 system to life while keeping it out of the 3G world as long as possible."

While the system will have to go 3G-SDI at some point—during studio productions, for example—Martin said they tried to maintain the ST 2110 network environment through the entire system. “It just made a whole lot of sense to move the school’s production capabilities from a 3G-SDI infrastructure to IP because SMU had limited infrastructure in their venues,” Martin added. “They really needed this decentralized infrastructure to support MustangVision, which produces more than 170 games a year.”

[The Home of the Los Angeles Lakers, Kings, and Sparks Gets New Scoreboard]

To coincide with its new membership in the ACC, SMU wanted to build a campus-wide sports production system that is capable of handling any sized production—and it's mission accomplished, according to Jones. “We're now capable of producing the largest productions that rival any major sporting events if we wanted to,” he said. “With our new IP network, I can pull all the resources out of multiple rooms and produce anything you see on broadcast television. We can do all sorts of things because IP is all about increased bandwidth and capabilities. We wanted MustangVision to be the best sports content producer in the ACC, technically, and I think we are.”

InfoComm 2024 has begun. Here are five booths you should consider stopping by in the Las Vegas Convention Center. And don't forget to bookmark the links below for all of SCN's InfoComm 2024 coverage. 

[The Road to InfoComm 2024: Everything You Need to Know Before You Go]

[Trends, Technologies, and What to Expect in Vegas]

elektraLite Celebrates 30th Anniversary

elektraLite is celebrating its 30th anniversary this summer and will be showcasing its products at Booth W1071.

elektraLite first got its start when Norman Wright and Vinny Finnegan teamed up to purchase the lighting division from Mark IV Industries. “At that time, we were distributing lighting products from a number of European-based manufacturers,” recalled Wright, who has served as elektraLite’s VP of Engineering since day one. “Jack Kelly [Group One CEO] joined us soon after we commenced operations, and we decided to design and manufacture our own products because, at the time, we couldn’t find anything on the market that was geared to our dealers and market.”

After manufacturing lighting controllers for nearly a decade, elektraLite pivoted and began focusing more on fixtures and effects, illustrated by the introductions of the “moving yoke” MY150 and MY250 (2003), “moving mirror” MM150 (2003), Elektrik Eye (2004), Turbofog (2004), and Paint Can (2007), among other notable products.

In 2009, the company started incorporating efficient, high-power LEDs into its designs, starting with the Dazer in 2009. From then on, elektraLite generated a steady stream of product launches that would go on to become industry favorites, including the 1018 Quad (2010), Pancake (2011), eyeBall (2012), elektraBar (2013), ML602 (2014), and many others. The first elektraLite Stingray, a 300-watt model, debuted in 2017 and ultimately expanded into a full range of products under that moniker over the following years.

Watchfire Makes InfoComm Debut

Watchfire is exhibiting for the first time at InfoComm 2024 at Booth W637. Watchfire will unveil its latest innovations in digital signage, LED displays, and Pro AV solutions.  

With the recent launch of its Pro AV division, Watchfire is set to showcase a range of products designed to enhance visual experiences across various applications. Visitors can expect to see a 1.9mm front counter X-Series Display, a 1.9mm 3x3 X-Series pop-up mobile ReadyDisplay, and a 2.6mm 5x8 VariDisplay rental video wall. 

In addition, Watchfire's partner, Wallboard, will showcase its digital signage content management system (CMS) on Watchfire’s new 18x6.6-foot H 2.6mm VariDisplay LED digital video wall at the Wallboard booth W3175. This advanced display system demonstrates the fusion of technology and creative content delivery, offering attendees an insight into the possibilities of next-generation visual communication. 

Test Out the New Owl Labs Meeting Owl 4+ Camera and AI-Powered Software

Owl Labs will showcase its recently launched next-generation Meeting Owl 4+. It is Owl Labs’ newest all-in-one, 360-degree camera, speaker, and mic device with 4K Ultra HD video for crystal-clear video that’s sharper than ever. The new Meeting Owl is powered by the latest Owl Intelligence System (OIS) Software which now allows for wirelessly pairing more devices, so organizations can customize their spaces to meet their evolving needs.

[AI in Pro AV: Here and Now]

With the introduction of the Meeting Owl 4+, Owl Labs now offers enhanced capabilities to more audiences, from small and medium-sized businesses (SMBs) to larger enterprises. In addition to pairing with more devices to cover larger spaces, the Meeting Owl 4+ has several other enterprise-friendly features, including easier fleet management for IT teams and customizable lighting and sound options upon startup.

With the latest AI-powered OIS software, the Meeting Owl 4+ pairs with Owl Labs’ customizable connected device system to capture all angles of the discussion. Owl Labs products can connect with others in over 25 different setup configurations, with both center-of-room and front-and-center options. For example, a company can wirelessly connect two Meeting Owls for greater coverage, or a Meeting Owl, and an Owl BarTM to ensure all angles are covered, creating a full-room solution. The software is developed in the U.S. by an experienced team of engineers who are continually iterating to make Owl products smarter over time. All software adheres to industry-standard security protocols and Owl devices connect via a private, dedicated wireless network.

Visionary to Introduce MV5 IP Multiviewer

Visionary is debuting the MV5 IP Multiviewer at Booth C8801. The high-performance scaling and windowing appliance is designed to enhance the capabilities of AV-over-IP systems. The MV5 IP Multiviewer is the next generation of multiviewers, offering enhanced capabilities and seamless compatibility with Visionary's acclaimed 5 Series AV-over-IP endpoints. 

Building on the robust features of its predecessor, the MV4 IP Multiviewer, the MV5 IP Multiviewer retains all the advanced functionalities that users have come to expect, with an exciting new upgrade: the ability to output 4K60 4:4:4 video. This significant enhancement ensures the highest quality video output, meeting the demands of modern AV applications with unparalleled clarity and precision.

The MV5 IP Multiviewer supports a variety of default presets, such as quad view, side-by-side, full screen and picture-in-picture, or user-defined configurations. The MV5 IP Multiviewer boasts zero frame loss during window and video transitions, ensuring smooth and uninterrupted playback. The combined output video can be encoded into a single stream and sent to one or more PacketAV Matrix 5 Series Decoders at resolutions up to 4K60 4:4:4. Additionally, users can select audio from any of the four sources for playback, regardless of the currently displayed video, enhancing the auditory experience.

MultiDyne to Address AV and Broadcast Convergence   

MultiDyne’s exhibit at Booth C6228 will emphasize its latest innovations along with flagship product lines that address IP convergence, audio/video conversion, and field fiber transport among other signal management requirements, appealing to integrators and end users across most AV verticals.

New to InfoComm, MultiDyne will introduce its latest NanoBrix Series of miniature signal processing solutions, including a new 12G to HDMI converter introduced at NAB last month. The new NB2-12G-HDMI provides a way for engineers to monitor 5.1 audio streams and downmix the surround signal to 2.0 stereo audio by accepting a 12G 4K SDI signal and converting it to HDMI for live confidence monitoring.

MultiDyne will bring its flagship SilverBack Series of fiber camera adapters for broadcast production workflows, enabling content producers to convert digital cinema cameras into SMPTE studio cameras for live multi-camera production. SilverBack fiber camera adapters are lightweight “cameraback” systems ideal for live concerts, sports, TV productions and worship services. 

MultiDyne will demonstrate how its  MDoG Series of openGear solutions helps customers build stronger bridges between the SDI and IP worlds and tip the scales in both directions for field fiber transport, bringing its latest throwdown solution for bulk fiber transport and a miniature lockable solution for fixed and temporary fiber-optic links: HoneyBadger and SilverBULLET.

TNDV founder Nic Dugger president Rob Devlin—with the help of mixed in technology from Sony, MultiDyne, and others—are bringing the dramatic look that digital cinema cameras produce into live television and event productions. What was once hindered by technology limitations that made the efforts fall short of achieving the desired goal is now becoming a reality.

“Our industry has long been challenged to find ways that seamlessly blend cameras for feature film production into multi-camera environments with 10 to 12 cameras,” said Dugger. “It’s especially tricky for live television, where we rely on triggering tally lights to signal that we are on the air. We now use multi-cam style cameras from Sony such as the HDC-F5500 that give us all the broadcast features we need, along with a full-size 4K CMOS sensor and a PL lens mount to achieve that cinematic experience. And MultiDyne’s SilverBack V fiber camera adapters allow to adapt any digital cinema camera we want to the broadcast workflow, opening us up to an array of new camera choices.”

Devlin recently put Sony’s PMW-F55 CineAlta 4K digital cinema cameras to work for Passion 2024, an annual three-day live worship event that brought more than 50,000 attendees to Atlanta. TNDV captured live performances from Christian musical groups and lectures from preachers and evangelist speakers inside Mercedes-Benz Stadium, with SilverBack V systems affixed to adapt them for multi-camera production. “These were the camera systems we used to really capture the essence of the performances closer to the stage,” said Devlin. “We mixed those into the workflow with our HDC-F5500 camera systems, which captured the stage and the crowd from greater distances. We did the entire shoot on 29.97p per the client’s and used 20 cameras in total, all of which we switched from our Exclamation truck for the in-house stage presentation.”

TNDV was responsible for everything in the content acquisition chain through to the switcher, providing image magnification and effects for LED walls behind the stage as well as the house television system. Other gear included a Ross Ultrix router to accommodate 12G UHD signal flows, and a newly purchased Telestream PRISM MPD waveform monitor, which provided essential measurement tools for the camera shaders.

The MultiDyne SilverBack V systems were essential to the audience experience given their ability to bring the PMW-F55 signals onto the fiber-optic network and carry them back to the truck. “These are very simple to use. There is an external power pack to bring the camera up, and after making the connections you have your video, your return, your intercom and your tally right there on the back of the camera head,” said Devlin. “It also provides RCP control with gives operators access to shading, iris and the ability to adjust matrix settings. The fiber level readout on the front confirms how strong of a connection exists, which gives our crew peace of mind as they roam.”

Dugger added that TNDV separately used Sony HDC-F5500 Super 35mm 4K CMOS camera systems for Christmas in Graceland, a holiday-themed production broadcast on NBC in late 2023. The HDC-F5500 cameras don’t require adapters as SMPTE fiber backs are built into the design. “We had extensive discussions with our director, Hamish Hamilton, about what he wanted to achieve,” said Dugger. “His exact words were ‘I want a cinematic frame rate with PL glass,’ and we achieved that along with a film-style look by shooting in 24p with the HDC-F5500. This was a triple-truck show for TNDV that included our Collaboration main production truck, Vibration audio truck and Constellation uplink truck to back up the fiber feed with satellite connectivity.”

TNDV installed a fiber infrastructure with thousands of feet in lengths across multiple locations on the property. This was used to capture performances from Post Malone, Alanis Morrisette and others in different environments while also providing a live transmission feed back to NBC. “We captured everything in a cinematic format even though the live broadcast was in 1080i. The camera control units can output traditional broadcast formats, so we were able to achieve that film-style look. For the viewer, the broadcast had the atmosphere of a live music video or a motion picture; back on the truck, we were switching it same as we do for every live. broadcast event. It was a very succinct, efficient and professional convergence of cinematic acquisition with broadcast production and transmission."

NAB Show 2024 is quickly approaching. Be sure to add these debuts from SDVI, DPA Microphones, Hitachi, Studio Technologies, and MultiDyne to your must-see list. 

[AV Network's NAB Show 2024 News Hub]

SDVI to Showcase Productivity Gains Enabled by Rally

SDVI will demonstrate how its Rally media supply chain management platform enables media companies to optimize the productivity of their media operations across both automated and manual tasks for a wide range of use cases. Designed to support every step of their supply chains, from content receipt to delivery, Rally helps media organizations achieve true business agility, accelerate operational efficiency, and gain new intelligence about their media operations. Whether organizations are moving broadcast playout to the cloud, spinning up new FAST channels, satisfying the needs of a digital D2C service, fulfilling new licensing deals, or simply consolidating disparate operations into a cohesive core, SDVI enables them to best meet the challenges of a dynamic and changing business.

At Booth W2313, visitors will see the recently introduced Rally Access Workstation, a new way to use Adobe Premiere Pro in the cloud as part of a fully managed, end-to-end, cloud-based media supply chain. This new addition to the company's Rally platform enables anywhere, anytime access to hosted edit workstations and content in the cloud, dynamically managing associated infrastructure deployment so that media organizations can scale their edit capacity easily and cost-effectively within an automated media supply chain. SDVI will be showing how manual edits can be made within the context of an automated media supply chain, without user tools and the content ever leaving the cloud.

Hitachi Kokusai DK-H700 4K Box Camera

The Hitachi Kokusai DK-H700 will make its debut at booth C4516. The next-generation box camera suits a variety of high-end broadcast, Pro AV and government applications. 

Shown as a reference display to NAB Show audiences last year, visitors to NAB Show 2024 will get a true sense of the camera DK-H700’s smooth operability, artistic capabilities and striking visual quality. The latter two benefits are amplified through the camera’s advanced digital signal processing and HDR support. The DK-H700’s design also includes 2/3-inch, RGB 3-chips, 8.3 million pixel each CMOS sensors., Collectively, these features add up to produce sharp and clear images with minimal noise, lifelike color fidelity, and extraordinary sensitivity. 

The DK-H700 is a multi-format solution that complies with ITU-R.BT-2020 wide color gamut specs and operates within REC BT2100 High Dynamic Range standards. These allow content creators to produce independent programs in a dual workflow configuration for both HDTV and/or UHD SDI output formats. The new DK-H700 has also added a ¼ ND filter to be able to produce a shallow depth of field with iris opened, which will add to artistic value and reduce the Moire Effect on video walls. Providing the ability to produce shallow Depth of Field, while also having 2/3-inch Native Global Shutter sensors for maximum depth of field helps to enable maximum artistic experience.

DPA to Showcase Versatile, New Compact Shotgun Microphone

DPA Microphones will highlight the standout features of its compact 2017 Shotgun Microphone at booth C7307. From its durable construction and ease of use to its acoustical properties, the 2017 can capture the energy of any broadcast, AV or live event application. Measuring just 7.24 inches (184mm) in length, the 2017 is more compact than many popular solutions, yet it still offers impressive technological features, including extreme durability, high directivity, clarity and consistency for capturing authentic sound. 

DPA has prioritized versatility with the 2017, creating an easy to set-up mic that is ideal for indoor or outdoor fixed or booming applications in live sports, news broadcast and location sound applications, as well as on a FOH boom or fly bar in venues during live events. 

Studio Technologies Introduces Model 5682 ST 2110 to Dante Bridge

Studio Technologies will present its new Model 5682 ST 2110 to Dante Bridge at C2346. The Model 5682 provides a high-performance means of interconnecting (“bridging”) SMPTE ST 2110 audio channels with Dante audio-over-Ethernet channels. 

The Model 5682 is available in two versions: the Model 5682-01 allows up to 32 audio channels to pass in each direction, while the Model 5682-02 supports up to 64 audio channels. The unit is compatible with the SMPTE ST 2110-30 standard for PCM audio signals and the ST 2110-10 standard for signal timing. On the Dante side, the Model 5682 is compatible with the Dante Domain Manager (DDM) software application and is complaint with the AES67 interoperability standard. 

The Model 5682’s primary application is to interconnect audio channels associated with two independent networks, one that supports ST 2110 and the other Dante. The source and destination of these audio channels would typically be other equipment such as mixing consoles, broadcast or production crosspoint switchers, matrix intercom systems, or digital audio processing units. The Model 5682 can also perform effectively on the same local area network (LAN), interconnecting independent ST 2110 and Dante audio channels. Each implementation, ST 2110 or Dante, can have its own timing (sync) reference, sample rate, and bit depth. Sample rate conversion (SRC) logic within the Model 5682 ensures that the audio signals can pass between the two implementations with minimal degradation in performance. The Model 5682’s ST 2110 and Dante network interfaces are electrically isolated and share no non-audio data, minimizing the risk of security issues. Only uncompressed PCM digital audio signals pass, by way of the SRC logic, between the two network interfaces.

MultiDyne Opens Gate to IP Networks with New openGear Series   

MultiDyne Video & Fiber Optic Systems will introduce a new series of openGear solutions at booth C7107 that will help customers build stronger bridges between the SDI and IP worlds. The new MDoG Series offers SMPTE ST 2110 network interface and low-latency JPEG-XS codec modules to efficiently manage uncompressed and compressed signals as they move between legacy systems and IP networks, with full redundancy to optimize performance. 

MultiDyne’s MDoG-6060 modules represent the company’s first IP Gateway solutions for uncompressed ST 2110 networks. The modules provide a reliable SDI-to-IP network interface with exceptionally wide bandwidth, helping broadcast and media companies optimize throughput for uncompressed 4K and HD video transport. 

MDoG-6060 ST 2110 Gateways are available in multiple I/O configurations for 3G-SDI (3x3, 6x2 and 2x6) and 12G-SDI (1x1, 2x0, and 0x2) systems. Each configuration offers two 25GB network interfaces to support redundant transport streams, strengthened through SMPTE ST 2022-7 compliance. The ST 2022-7 standard provides hitless merge functionality, which means that the two network streams will borrow packets from each other to maintain signal integrity as they move through the network, ensuring streams are reassembled and intact upon reaching their destinations. 

IBC 2023 is set to take place Sept. 15-18 in Amsterdam. Here are just a few products to add to your list. 

Canon to Unveil 4K PTZ Camera, Remote Camera Controller, and RF-Mount Cinema Prime Lenses

At IBC, visitors to the Canon booth will be able to see the new CR-N100 4K PTZ camera. The camera is designed for indoor use cases and brings the image quality and performance that Canon PTZ cameras are known for. Canon is also introducing the RC-IP1000, a high-end remote camera controller designed for professional systems. As a free download, Canon will also release the Multi-Camera Management Application that streamlines the configuration and management of supported Canon PTZ, professional video, and cinema cameras.

[Canon Collaborates on Collaboration]

As online meetings, lectures, live events, and seminars become increasingly commonplace, there is a growing need for livestreaming and video recording technology. The CR-N100 camera provides excellent image quality, fast autofocus, and its compact size allows for easy installation in spaces such as meeting rooms and classrooms. With the addition of the CR-N100 to Canon’s lineup of remote cameras, customers now have greater choices of products that support a wide range of uses, from professional video production to video content use by markets such as corporate, local governments, house of worship, and educational institutions.

Also on display with be Canon's first RF-Mount Cinema Prime Lenses for the Cinema EOS System. The new lenses combine high optical performance for 4K and 8K shooting, cinema-style operability, and RF mount communications. The first set of seven RF-Mount Cinema Prime Lenses is only the beginning. Canon plans to swiftly expand the lineup of RF-mount-compatible video production equipment to meet the needs of professional video production of such content as movies, TV, and commercials.

The seven Canon CN-R lenses, with focal lengths and T stops of 14mm T3.1, 20mm T1.5, 24mm T1.5, 35mm T1.5, 50mm T1.3, 85mm T1.3, and 135mm T2.2, are compatible with the two existing RF-Mount Canon Cinema Cameras, the EOS C70 and EOS R5 C. These lenses will allow for RF mount protocol transmission, and just like the EF-Mount Cinema Prime Lenses, operators can control magnification, chromatic aberration correction, peripheral light correction, and a dual-pixel focus guide via camera body operations. In addition, the new lenses also feature lens distortion correction. These features support efficient video production during on-location recording and post-production workflow.

Magewell to Launch All-in-One Live Production and Streaming System

Magewell (stand 7.A44) will launch its first self-contained, full-featured production solution, Director Mini. Combining multi-input switching, graphics, streaming, recording and monitoring in one compact device, Director Mini enables a single operator to easily create visually compelling productions for live event coverage, remote production feeds and more.

Director Mini offers a unique combination of input source flexibility and feature richness in an exceptionally versatile form factor. Users can switch between two HDMI inputs and two USB AV inputs as well as three simultaneous live IP sources including SRT streams, RTMP streams or up to two NDI HX sources. File-based media assets including video, audio and images can also be combined freely with live sources. Embedded audio is supported on the HDMI and USB inputs alongside a 3.5mm analog audio input.

[Can NDI Become Ubiquitous?] 

Director Mini's intuitive user interface is accessed through its integrated 5.44-inch AMOLED touchscreen. Users can define multiple scenes that combine live HDMI, USB and audio inputs with network streams, media sources and graphics, then switch or transition between these scenes on the fly. Chroma keying enables the use of virtual backgrounds, while telestration enables real-time on-screen drawing and combines with built-in scoreboard functionality to support sports productions. PTZ camera control is also available through the touchscreen, simplifying single-operator productions.

Director Mini can encode video up to 1080p at 60 frames per second and bitrates up to 30Mbps, with a flexible array of output possibilities. Productions can be streamed using the RTMP protocol to popular platforms such as YouTube™ Live, Facebook™ Live or custom destinations. Live comments can be displayed while streaming to YouTube, Facebook or Twitch. The ability to output an SRT stream makes Director Mini an excellent tool for contributing high-quality feeds to an off-site location for remote production. Alternatively, the device can create one NDI® HX output to serve as a source for additional IP-based production tools. Its USB-C port can be configured to display the program output, user interface or a loop-through of either HDMI input on a connected USB-C display. Last but not least, content can be recorded to an SD card, USB flash drive or the device's internal storage.

Wisycom Introduces New Full-duplex Mobile Transceiver

Wisycom will unveil its new RPU500-F full-duplex mobile transceiver in Hall 8, Stand C51. Designed for sports, live events, and outside broadcast commentator coverage, the transceiver features a 1W multiband transmitter (where applicable) with a newly designed integrated intercom/IFB receiver.

The RPU500-F features an ergonomic and compact form (73.1x64.5x21.6mm) that makes it perfect for use in live applications requiring a lot of movement. With a battery pack that lasts more than five hours with continuous high-power transmission, the RPU500-F is also well-suited to applications where long coverage periods might be required. Additionally, the transceiver’s transflective LCD color display ensures that it is legible in all lighting scenarios—including direct sunlight, which is ideal for sports and other outdoor events.

[AV Takes Command at FedExField]

 The transmitter operates in the 174-960MHz spectrum, while the receiver works in the 440-700MHz range and can operate in three modes, which are selectable on the device menu. This includes ultra-narrowband (channel bandwidth 12.5k), narrowband (50k) and narrowband enhanced (110k). The bandwidth provided by the enhanced mode makes it possible to include up to three embedded audio sources on the same device. The device also features four programmable push-to-talk buttons for remote audio routing on AUX or through Ethernet with Ember+.

Designed to work with the Wisycom Symphony Series receivers and MTK Series transmitters, the RPU500-F provides users with an unprecedented, broadcast-quality, full-duplex, long-range wireless reporting system.

Get the First Look at LiveLink from Vislink

Visitors to the Vislink Technologies Hall 1, Stand 1.C51 will witness the world debut of WMT LiveLink, a bonded cellular transmitter. Based on Mobile Viewpoint technology, LiveLink’s design offers high-quality 4:2:2, 10-bit HEVC video encoding up to 4K resolutions, and 10-bit Luma Optimization to meet the demands of HDR.

With LiveLink, broadcasters can leverage high-quality, low-latency video transmissions—made possible by FPGA technology and HEVC encoding—to enable dynamic, highly-fluid two-way interviews.

LiveLink provides bonding connectivity, supporting up to four diverse public cellular connections, Wi-Fi, and public internet. Those in heavily populated environments can still enjoy high data rate connectivity through integration with Vislink’s private 5G connectivity solution. With bonded cellular, private 5G and Starlink satellite support, LiveLink also provides seamless roaming across private and public 5G networks.

Field camera operators can stay connected to colleagues in the broadcast center through a direct audio link provided by LiveLink’s integrated camera control feature. LiveLink also includes multi-camera/transmitter synchronization, allowing users to seamlessly switch between live feeds, viewing the action from different angles.

ENCO to Showcase Augmented Reality Experiences

ENCO will unveil an integration of virtual production and PTZ technology from its Qimera and RUSHWORKS product lines at stand (8.C73). Visitors will see the two technologies working with a 3D camera tracking system to enable augmented reality (AR) environments for live studio-based TV and visual radio productions. 

ENCO acquired RUSHWORKS in January and was named the exclusive North American distributor for Qimera in June, adding two product brands that bring exciting new production capabilities to ENCO customers. At IBC, ENCO will demonstrate how broadcasters can create appealing AR experiences for live broadcasts by blending Qimera’s compositing systems with the award-winning RUSHWORKS PTX Model 3 PRO pan/tilt head. Visitors will ultimately step into an AR environment with professional live graphics powered through Qimera’s Unreal Engine plug-in, with the PTX Model 3 PRO pan/tilt head ensuring a cinematic feel to the visual experience thanks to smooth, whisper-quiet operation. The resulting AR experiences will be reflected on the walls and floors at ENCO’s stand and fully visualized on a large monitor so that visitors can precisely understand the AR production elements being used to bring the visuals to life. Qimera’s built-in video-switching technology will drive the visual output.

[We Went for an Off-Road Adventure with Vú at InfoComm 2023... and It Was Awesome]

Qimera’s real-time virtual production compositing tools were built with modern production workflows in mind, beginning with its easy and intuitive user interface. Editors can quickly create highly advanced virtual sets and augmented reality graphics thanks to its quick learning curve, and users can connect four cameras to a single server thanks to its built-in video switcher. The solution builds in lighting control with DMX IP, PTZ camera integration, a 3D assets library, realistic graphics via Unreal Engine, multi-layer composition, and a virtual crane among other features. 

The RUSHWORKS PTX Model 3 PRO pan/tilt head features passthrough connections for SDI, HDMI, USB, DC camera power, and networking between cameras and lenses, minimizing stress between the base and arm. Made of steel and aluminum, the PTX Model 3 PRO provides a solid platform for smooth presets and on-air moves. The PTX Model 3 PRO provides the torque necessary for smoothly controlling most pro-grade camera/lens combinations, including models from Blackmagic Design, Canon, Panasonic/Lumix, Red, Arri, Sony, and more.

Genelec to Launch UNIO Audio Monitoring Platform and 9320A Reference Controller

Genelec will unveil the 9320A Reference Controller as a bridge to its brand new UNIO Audio Monitoring Service Platform. UNIO brings together all the benefits of Genelec Smart Active Monitors, GLM 5.0 calibration software and Aural ID 2.0 technology to create seamless integration between professional in-room loudspeaker and headphone monitoring services. With flexible connectivity, a reference-grade headphone output, and tactile hardware control of Smart Active Monitors, GLM, and Aural ID, the 9320A provides a compact hub for both static and mobile professional audio monitoring applications.

Genelec’s range of Smart Active Monitors power the UNIO platform, which utilize auto-calibration and cloud computing to enable the production of accurate, reliable mixes that translate consistently to other rooms and systems. For professional headphone users, Genelec’s Aural ID technology provides a completely personal and truthful headphone listening experience with the natural sense of space and imaging provided by in-room monitoring. By combining a calibrated Smart Active Monitoring system and professional headphones with Aural ID, the user is able to have mixes that translate reliably between monitors and headphones.

Now, with the introduction of UNIO and the 9320A, users can integrate these technologies and services via a single intuitive mobile desktop device, and view the entire system via the user’s MyGenelec account. As a bridge to UNIO, the 9320A offers management of multiple Smart Active Monitoring systems from stereo to immersive and beyond, and comes complete with a factory-calibrated reference microphone to allow automated system calibration and control of key GLM software features. 

The introduction of UNIO and the 9320A also coincides with the latest GLM 5.0 loudspeaker manager software release, which provides support for both the 9320A and the flagship 8381A free-standing main monitor unveiled earlier this year. GLM 5.0 employs sophisticated cloud computing, enabling UNIO to effortlessly integrate a range of reference audio monitoring services, including intelligent room analysis, in-room system calibration, monitor control and fully personal audio monitoring.

Studio Technologies Introduces VenueView

Studio Technologies unveils its newest STcontroller application feature, VenueView, at stand 8.F93. 

STcontroller is Studio Technologies’ proprietary personal computer application. It offers a quick and easy means of displaying and real-time monitoring of key operating parameters associated with a number of different Studio Technologies’ Dante-compatible products. The focus of VenueView is to assist support personnel who are responsible for the correct operation of multiple announcer’s consoles (talent interfaces) and related devices that are being used by “on-air” personnel in broadcast and production applications. The latest release of STcontroller for Windows, available on the Studio Technologies web site, adds the VenueView capability. Each VenueView group allows up to eight different devices to be monitored in a single user-defined menu, with multiple groups capable of being simultaneously monitored. Additional capabilities are planned for future VenueView releases.

MultiDyne's HoneyBadger Makes European Debut

At IBC, MultiDyne will highlight new product innovations and strategic acquisitions that take the company deeper into the technology infrastructure, allowing customers worldwide to embrace new opportunities in live production, media transport and content delivery.

MultiDyne, which has also relocated its headquarters to a larger facility outside New York City, will show two recently introduced products at IBC for the first time at IBC.

The MultiDyne new HoneyBadger solution is one of those new solutions being highlighted. HoneyBadger is built for a new generation of content producers faced with a broader array of formats, signals and connectors while seeking to bridge the gap between fiber and IP. It scales to serve the expanse of any production workflow or requirement so that everything the content producer needs for multi-camera or multi-announcer productions converges within its design. 

With support for eight camera feeds and SDI return channels, the design also includes two independent 1Gb local-area network (LAN) extensions, enabling IP connectivity over single-mode fiber strands. Customers can also extend four partyline intercom channels (wet or dry), eight bi-directional line level analog audio outputs and eight mic-pre inputs with phantom power over two cost-efficient single-mode fibers.

Pixotope Makes Virtual Production a Reality for Broadcasters of All Sizes

Pixotope is set to unveil its new Live Controller, an all-in-one graphics control solution for broadcast virtual production workflows. Underpinned by Unreal Engine, the Pixotope Live Controller introduces reusable no-code templates and rundown-based virtual production workflows to all broadcast control rooms in a single-user software package. For the first time, any broadcast operation, regardless of size, can easily implement virtual production as part of its programming without bespoke engineering teams to synchronize the separate graphics pipelines needed to bring CG, AR, XR, and virtual sets together on air. 

Three things to know about the Pixotope Live Controller

• Enhanced Graphics Engine:  Through seamless integration with existing workflow components, broadcasters can maintain the same look and feel their users expect, minimizing disruption while maximizing the advantages of the new technology.
• Simplified Integration and Support: Broadcasters eliminate the need to collaborate with multiple vendors, streamlining the licensing process and ensuring a single point of contact. This simplified approach saves time, reduces complexity, and eliminates uncertainty when issues arise.
• The Power of Templates and Playlists: Live Controller empowers broadcasters by implementing templates — combinations of graphic assets, data, and user input forms—that will be instantly familiar to all users while providing access to the latest graphics engine. These templates can be saved in a database and reused effortlessly, allowing broadcasters to create playlists for their shows. This flexibility enables easy customization, as broadcasters can mix and match templates, overlaying different elements and achieving dynamic visuals without starting from scratch. Future releases of Live Controller will enable time and cost savings by introducing the capability to reuse assets generated by journalists and facilitating efficient collaboration between studio automation and post-production.

Celebration Time at IBC 2023: RAVENNA and AES67

This is the opposite of a new product, but certainly newsworthy. RAVENNA will celebrate its 13th anniversary at IBC 2023. This year, RAVENNA shares the festivities the AES67 Standard for High-Performance Audio-over-IP Interoperability (first published at IBC 2013) marks its 10th anniversary at IBC 2023. Since then, all existing AoIP solutions—including Livewire, QLAN, Dante, Wheatnet and others—have adopted AES67 as an operational mode or profile, allowing some 2000-plus products to interoperate. A series of successful plugfests were held across Europe and the United States to prove that AES67 has a sound foundation and achieves its goal: interoperability amongst equipment from a wide range of manufacturers. 

AES67 also forms the basis for the suite of SMPTE ST 2110 standards for Transport of Professional Media over Managed IP Networks. ST 2110-30 describes the transport of linear PCM audio and builds directly on AES67. For ST2110-31 (Transport of AES3 Audio), SMPTE decided to adopt the existing RAVENNA AM821 definition, making RAVENNA the most suitable technology both for building AES67-enabled products and systems and implementing SMPTE ST 2110 into devices. Beyond the mandatory requirements defined in AES67 and ST 2110, RAVENNA offers a wider choice of formatting options, more flexibility for any size of applications and as well as superior performance options for the most demanding requirements of professional broadcast productions.

AES67 has seen two revisions—the latest being published in 2018. The AES67 Task Group continues its work on maintaining AES67 and is looking forward to publishing the third revision of AES67 towards the end of 2023. With the RAVENNA team participating in the work groups of various standardization organizations, adopters can be assured that RAVENNA is always aligned with current and emerging standards requirements.

The RAVENNA team can be found in stand 8.F57 where it will be demonstrating AES67 interoperability and showcasing a number of new AES67 and ST 2110-enabled products from various RAVENNA partners.

While companies like Atlona and MultiDyne are opening new spaces, new faces at Daktronics and Bluefin are also on the move. 

[5 Takeaways from the 2023 AV/IT Summit]

MultiDyne Relocates HQ to Serve Growing Business

MultiDyne Video & Fiber Optic Systems has relocated its global headquarters to accommodate both its growing business and changing workplace preferences. Located in Kings Park, NY, the company's 15-minute move north brings modernized office facilities, hybrid meeting spaces, and more to the company’s business operations, including a large showroom for trainings and events.

The new facility will accommodate MultiDyne’s Niagara Video business following its recent acquisition of the company. An open interior enables stronger collaboration between departments, while providing ample dedicated spaces for MultiDyne’s sales, engineering, and shipping/receiving operations. 

[AV Network's top stories, product news, and expert insights] 

“We wanted to create a more inviting workplace that people want to come to while addressing the need for hybrid events and a healthier work/life balance,” said Frank Jachetta, CEO, MultiDyne. “This a flexible and communal space that encourages collaboration and innovation and will empower smarter growth strategies for MultiDyne’s business moving forward.”

A showroom includes a large video wall that highlights MultiDyne’s latest products and innovations for the Pro AV, broadcast, and digital cinema communities. Meeting spaces incorporate modern collaboration technologies that promote meeting equity.

The building itself is surrounded by green space, offering serenity to staff and visitors that want to enjoy the exterior grounds. Also raising the cool factor: MultiDyne shares the 31,000 square foot space with Tin Mirror Studios, a production studio with professional video, audio and editing capabilities, bringing some true professional camaraderie to the campus. 

Jachetta also expects to host occasional industry events in the Kings Park facility, including local SMPTE chapter meetings. Jachetta was recently elected as Secretary of the SMPTE Long Island Chapter.

Atlona Opens New EMEA Training Center

Atlona has opened its freshly updated EMEA Training Center in Schwalbach, Germany, just outside Frankfurt at the Panduit European headquarters. Originally opened in 2020, the facility has been completely renovated and restructured to serve the next generation of AV training requirements, with all content and equipment unified with company training facilities in the United States. 

The EMEA facility emphasizes Atlona’s flagship product brands that serve the latest AV business trends in collaboration, connectivity and control. Atlona’s careful planning simulates real-world AV scenarios and installations to translate the benefits of Atlona solutions to integrators, dealers, and distributors. Training scenarios include Omega collaboration and presentation, OmniStream AV-over-IP, and Velocity control systems, providing partners with hands-on user experience before deploying systems in the field for end users.

Training courses are divided into several modules and levels that include AV fundamentals, networking, control, and system setup and configuration. Most trainings commence online before transitioning to hands-on training and advanced theory.

[4 Ways AI Can Help Pro AV Sustain Profitable Growth] 

Thorsten Goecke, business director, EMEA, Atlona said that partners have expressed strong interest in Velocity training, as AV control continues to evolve in ways that serve new requirements including remote systems management, which opens new revenue opportunities for integrators. “Velocity changes the game by offering the simplicity of drag and drop configuration for simple AV systems as well as advanced custom GUI and customizable drivers for deeper control inside complex AV environments,” he said. “Velocity is fully featured with scheduling plus automation, along with advanced remote management capabilities, and with our training program that learning curve is greatly reduced.”



Daktronics Welcomes Don Nolan

Don Nolan has joined the Daktronics out of home sales team. Nolan joined Daktronics in July 2023 to serve customers in the out of home (OOH) industry in the Great Lakes and Mid-Atlantic region. He has an extensive background in OOH, with a track record of increasing revenues, most recently as general manager at Southern Advertising and Sign Service, where he led the team to a 20% increase in sales.

Nolan also spent nearly 25 years in sales and leadership positions at Clear Channel Outdoor and Lamar Advertising company, two major players in OOH.

[From the Race Tack to the Football Field, Daktronics Delivers on Displays]

At Clear Channel, Nolan was president and general manager of the Memphis Division, where he managed day-to-day operations and led the charge to increase earnings by 18%. Previously, he worked at their Chattanooga Division, as president and general manager for nearly four years, and as a team leader and account executive for more than eight years.

During his tenure at Clear Channel, Nolan successfully brought digital into the city of Atlanta, Georgia, by working to change four ordinances. He served as vice president and general manager for the Lamar Memphis plant. Earlier in his career, he was the market manager for Lamar’s Atlanta Metro Area plant.

Nolan has also served as president of the Outdoor Advertising Association of Tennessee. He is a North Dakota Native and earned his bachelor’s degree from the University of North Dakota.

Bluefin Strengthens Commercial Sales Team with Industry Professional

Known as a top performer in the industry, Susan Wilhite joins Bluefin International on its commercial sales team in the new role of senior director of business Development. Wilhite will focus on cultivating key relationships with channel partners and will help to establish Bluefin as the go-to digital signage resource in the commercial AV space.

Bluefin specializes in custom signage displays for consumer-focused branding and engagement. Recently, Bluefin has expanded their offering to help Pro AV integrators and distributors address the long lead times with which the industry is struggling. Inventory of commonly requested signage configurations is now available in their Cumming, GA warehouse for immediate delivery. Additionally, “light-custom” that the company refers to as tailored options are available should requirements arise that the stocked products won’t fit. The addition of Susan is opportune as the company rolls out this problem-solving approach to AV integrators.

“I love this industry, and truly love helping people solve problems with innovative solutions—that’s always been my main objective throughout my career. My goal is to continue Bluefin’s growth by being customer-focused and identify opportunities where Bluefin’s products can impact a brand’s recognition and messaging. I’ll be heading to Atlanta next week for our Global Sales Meeting and can’t wait to meet and collaborate with the team."

Both PPDS and Lightware were busy this week with strategic appointments in some leadership positions while MAXHUB and MultiDyne expanded their companies with new locations. Here's a look at some Pro AV newsmakers you may have missed. 

[John Clancy Named Crestron Chief Sales Officer]

PPDS Appoints Megan Lipinczyk as Channel Marketing Manager

PPDS welcomed Megan Lipinczyk as channel marketing manager to the North American team. Based in Tampa, and reporting to fellow Floridian and former colleague, Alison Maxson, senior marketing manager at PPDS, Lipinczyk has quickly established herself over a successful four-year career. She brings a wealth of experience, additional skillsets and fresh ideas for this important new role.

[More on PPDS from AV Network]

Described as ‘true team player’ by current and former colleagues—harnessed, in part, from her days as a softball player at the University of Kentucky—Lipinczyk’s key responsibilities at PPDS will center around driving greater awareness of the PPDS brand and its evolving solutions, while increasing demand and revenue opportunities through the channel and with its valued partners.

“PPDS is a company that continues to gain momentum in North America, delivering high quality, highly innovative, dedicated solutions that truly validate its ethos of leading from the front," said Lipinczyk. "I'm looking forward to contributing to its success, working with and learning from the team, developing and executing engaging marketing strategies that will enable our partners to thrive.”

Lightware Appoints Michael Adams as Director of Enterprise Sales for the Americas

Lightware Visual Engineering has added Michael “Moose” Adams as director of enterprise sales for the Americas. Adams will champion enterprise sales operations and lead business development to establish and strengthen customer relationships. 

[Lightware News on AV Network]

Adams has over 30 years of success in sales, marketing and operations in the enterprise technology sector. Adams has worked with many industry-leading companies, including Avidex Industries, Crestron Electronics and Tempest Technologies. Most recently, Adams served as Manager of Healthcare, West and Canada for Zoom Video Communications. At Zoom, Adams was responsible for sales and technical support for his territory. Adams brings a background in promoting collaborative digital transformation and creative application in workplace technology. 

“I’ve been very impressed by Lightware’s innovative and growing product portfolio. As a professional with experience in professional AV and the digital transformation of workplace technology, it’s exciting to join a team that provides cutting-edge, user-friendly solutions to empower collaboration and communication,” said Adams. “In my role, I look forward to building and maintaining long-lasting, strong relationships with customers while collaborating with our partners to better understand their unique business challenges and objectives.”

MAXHUB Heads to the Netherlands

MAXHUB has taken the next step in its European expansion strategy with a new logistics center in Rotterdam, NL.

In 2021, the company started its expansion into Europe. Its portfolio includes innovative solutions that offer everything that is needed for a modern conference environment, from touch displays to unified communication products, all-in-one LED walls and commercial displays as well as Pivot software management solutions. Establishing a European contact point was the logical next step in ensuring that these products reach customers quickly and reliably.

[More from MAXHUB on AV Network]

The new MAXHUB logistics center shortens delivery times and thus increases flexibility as well as customer satisfaction. The location is no coincidence: the Port of Rotterdam is the largest deep-sea port in Europe and, therefore, perfectly connected to the global logistics network.

“The logistics center in Rotterdam is essential for our European expansion strategy. The advantages of the location speak for themselves, as the port is perfectly connected to the international trade network on the one hand and offers us a central transshipment point in Europe on the other. This means that our customers benefit from short delivery times,” said Kevin Wang, Europe sales director at MAXHUB.

MultiDyne Opens EMEA Office in Poland

MultiDyne Video & Fiber Optic Systems has opened the doors to its first EMEA office under the leadership of Sebastian Mucha, MultiDyne’s director of business development for the EMEA region. Mucha will lead a team of regional sales, support, and engineering professionals from the company’s new office in Gdansk, Poland—a fast-growing metropolitan region with a rich pool of technology professionals.

The office opening follows a period of regional growth for MultiDyne, which began with Mucha’s appointment in 2019. The company has since acquired two manufacturers (Census Digital and Niagara Video) and continues to build out its global channel network, including throughout Europe where the company has established a stronger brand presence over the past three years. 

[AV Network's top stories, product news, and expert insights] 

The Gdansk location ensures that MultiDyne customers throughout Europe, the Middle East and Africa receive faster response for sales inquiries, product repairs and technical support. MultiDyne will also stock products locally to expedite shipments and delivery timelines throughout the region.

MultiDyne CEO Frank Jachetta adds that future plans include a local logistics team to further accelerate turnaround times for product deliveries. The floor plan also includes a large conference room for staff and customer meetings. “This is going to grow quickly,” said Jachetta. “MultiDyne is a global company, and this new facility empowers our growth trajectory while improving service for our EMEA customers.”

Canon's expanded Flex Zoom Series lineup is one of the many new innovations to be showcased at NAB Show 2023 in Las Vegas April 15-19. Check Canon news and notes and some of the other exhibitors and what they will be bringing to the show floor. 

[NAB Show Expects Big Gains in 2023]

Canon Expands Flex Zoom Series Cinema Lens Lineup 

Heading into NAB Show 2023, where it will be showcasing its latest solutions and products at Booth #C3825, Canon launched  two additions to its 8K Flex Zoom Cinema Lens Series: the CN-E14-35mm T1.7 and the CN-E31.5-95mm T1.7 Super 35mm format lenses. The company also announced four new relay kits: the RL-S1 and RL-S2 (for Super 35mm) and the RL-F1 and RL-F2 (for full-frame). The kits adapt each Flex Zoom lens to suit whatever sensor format is required. 

The Canon Flex Zoom lens series was first introduced in 2022 to support full-frame digital cinema cameras. Today, the CN-E14-35mm T1.7 and CN-E31.5-95mm T1.7 expand the Flex Zoom series to include support for Super 35mm cinema cameras. The new lenses, available in interchangeable EF and PL mounts, help produce video with beautiful and natural background blur that is desired by many end-users. 

Designed for the pursuit of cinematic beauty, the new lenses achieve superb 8K optical performance while maintaining the style and ease-of-use of Canon’s Cinema lens series. Ideal for shooting movies, television dramas, commercials, and a wide range of other video content, the lenses maintain a bright T1.7 aperture1 across their zoom ranges, enabling operators to create powerful, shallow depth-of-field shots.

The Canon Flex Zoom lenses are designed with “flexibility” in mind. Each Flex Zoom, by virtue of their relay kits, can be adapted for Super 35mm or full-frame sensors as needed to support the ever-changing requirements of film productions for both popular sensor formats. 

Also at the Canon booth in Las Vegas, be sure to see:

• New firmware updates for the EOS camera lineup
• Ultra-High-Sensitivity ILC Equipped With SPAD Sensor 

[NAB Show 2023 Hub: News and Products You Won't Want to Miss] 

MultiDyne Heads into the Wilds with HoneyBadger

MultiDyne Video and Fiber Optic Systems comes to NAB Show 2023 with a new bulk fiber transport platform that brings several classic MultiDyne strengths together into one common platform with exceptional signal density for HD, 3G (quad-link 4K) and 12G (single-link 4K) productions.

Ideal for stadiums, arenas, campus and venue-wide signal extension, metropolitan intra-facility connections and classic point-to-point links between trucks, control rooms and studios, MultiDyne’s new HoneyBadger offers an expansive, unparalleled feature set for production-based fiber transport. With support for eight camera feeds and SDI return channels—both expandable through HoneyBadger’s modularity—MultiDyne’s latest innovation takes several decades of bulk fiber transport product design experience into account. 

With HoneyBadger, there are no limits for local signal connectivity and extension, thanks to its high I/O density and two independent 1Gb local-area network (LAN) extensions—the latter of which enables IP connectivity over single-mode fiber strands. As users can also extend four partyline intercom channels (wet or dry), eight bi-directional line level analog audio outputs and eight mic-pre inputs with phantom power over two cost-efficient single-mode fibers, customers can manage all long-distance bulk fiber transport needs from one box. That also includes analog tri-level or bi-level genlock outputs, legacy GPIO/serial control signals and more.

Cinegy Joins Google Cloud Partner Advantage Program

Cinegy GmbH, which will be at NAB Show 20223 at booth N2022, has joined the Google Cloud Advantage Program as a Build Partner. Being part of the program means that Cinegy can deliver solutions on Google Cloud and integrate with other workflows to add value. 

As a Google Cloud partner, Cinegy can readily build comprehensive workflows for the complete range of media enterprises. Cinegy software systems that are already proven for use in Google Cloud include tools for content ingest including real-time live capture; signal routing, conversion, processing and playout; storage management and archiving; and multi-viewers. All of these are resolution independent software systems, meaning that users can implement Ultra HD and 8k content chains in the cloud if required. 

“The very diverse nature of the media industry means that each enterprise is finding its own transition from on premises legacy hardware technology to software-centric, virtualized solutions,” said Jan Weigner, managing director of Cinegy. “Being a Google Cloud partner enables us to continue to support our customers as they establish their own pathway, towards the goal of more efficient, more effective and more green operations.” 

“We are excited to welcome Cinegy to the Google Cloud Partner Advantage ecosystem,” said Kim Lasseter, global director, Partner Advantage Program at Google Cloud. “By bringing its platform to Google Cloud’s infrastructure, Cinegy’s customers will have access to new, innovative cloud solutions to build comprehensive workflows.”

Dream Chip to Launch IP Control for AtomOne

Dream Chip will be using NAB 2023 (Booth C3338) to demonstrate the addition of IP control functionality to its AtomOne SSM500 super slow-motion miniature camera. Measuring just 190mm x 60mm x 60mm and capable of recording 500fps in full HD resolution, the addition of IP control now gives this exceptional camera even greater flexibility in relation to the creative contexts in which it can be deployed -  especially on a remote basis.

The new IP control functionality sits alongside an existing RS 485 connection, and the camera employs an open protocol so that it remains compatible with a range of remote-control options from vendors such as CyanView, Skaarhoj, and Antelope, with direct camera control facilitated from a number of these third-party units. For those seeking to operate the camera without third-party additions, control, whether IP-based or through RS 485, is also facilitated through the intuitive GUI that ships with the camera and enables connection of up to 99 other Dream Chip cameras. Thus, comprehensive but easy-to-navigate control is provided for all expected image output options: framerate, resolution, memory and recording buffer status, white balance, exposure and – crucially - multi-matrix color correction to ensure perfect match with other cameras being used for the broadcast. The latter represents a feature that is unique in cameras of this size and FPS capability.

Indeed, in general, at the size which Dream Chip have achieved, there are currently no other offerings on the market which match the specifications and outputs of the AtomOne SSM500, making it unique in its ability to capture super-smooth, crystal clear, slow-motion footage from unusual and innovative angles. This makes it particularly valuable in sports applications, where the camera can be embedded within the pitch, on goalposts or anywhere close to the action, and thus provide viewers with immersive, detailed, emotion-driven footage.

Find out more about the AtomOne here. 

MultiDyne Video & Fiber Optic Solutions announces the new format flexible NIA9205 Series for broadcast and streaming media workflows. The MultiDyne NIA9205 is the first new product series resulting from MultiDyne’s acquisition of Niagara Video in the fall of 2022—combining the technical strength and innovative spirits of both companies. 

The NIA9205 encoder and decoder will be on display at NAB Show 2023 (April 16-19, Las Vegas Convention Center) at the MultiDyne booth (C4730), with shipping in Q2.

The NIA9205 Series is MultiDyne’s next-generation professional line of advanced video encoders and decoders. The compact, powerful and cost-effective products are designed for real-time streaming, broadcast transport and related applications. MultiDyne has adapted Niagara’s advanced video transport codecs and broadcast and networking standards with state-of-the art error correction to take advantage of the inherent flexibility of IP and the internet. HEVC and AVC 4:2:0 10-bit encoding, coupled with SRT, Zixi, & RIST video transport and error correction help to maintain professional broadcast quality transport with interoperability over almost any IP network, as well as wireless internet. OTT protocols such as RTMP and HLS bolster the product in other workflows and applications.

[NAB Show 2023 Hub: News and Products You Won't Want to Miss] 

“The new series is built using proven MultiDyne VB Series configurable product designs for signal transport, representing a convergence of MultiDyne and Niagara Video technology innovations for streaming and IP transport,” said Michael Galli, vice president of streaming products, MultiDyne. “The NIA9205 Series brings MultiDyne into new areas like streaming, IP transport, OTT and video compression. The platform offers benefits of hardware and software technology which gives it some unique advantages in a variety of market applications.”

The NIA 9205-ENC encoder offers both H.264 (AVC or MPEG-4) and H.265 (HEVC) compression. This means customers can start with AVC H.264 and migrate to HEVC H.265 when needed.

The NIA9205-DEC provides HEVC and MPEG4-AVC video decompression up to 2160p50/60 10-bit 4:2:0, along with support for up to eight audio channels, multicasting, and multi-unicasting for cost-effective audio/video broadcast solutions. The NIA9205 also provides two Gigabit Ethernet LAN ports—one for media transport, and one for control and monitoring.

[NAB Show Expects Big Gains in 2023]

“COVID-19 accelerated the move toward at-home production models that require a minimum of equipment and crew in the field, with most technicians in the studio focused on production,” said Jesse Foster, vice president of products and Western U.S. sales. “That requires moving content over private and public internet links with maximum efficiency, and usually requires convergence with fiber and copper. The NIA9205 codec extends the production point, the studio, and the control room, over the internet via highly secure connections using DTLS encryption. This makes the codec valuable for time sensitive IP-based contribution applications that involve critical news, sports and studio links.” 

Studios and remote production teams can also use the NIA9205 to reliably receive and decode content originating from third-party devices, ensuring that studios can accept content from field-based production partners even when other encoders are used.

MultiDyne Fiber Optic Solutions adds another strategic layer to its growing business with the acquisition of Niagara Video Corporation, a supplier of compression, streaming and IPTV solutions for the broadcast and Pro AV markets. The acquisition strengthens MultiDyne’s value proposition for software-defined video transport, and positions the company as a full-service provider of hardware and software solutions for moving high-quality video over any distance or network architecture. 

Black Pearl Management Group, owned and operated by well-known broadcast industry veteran Bob McAlpine, facilitated the acquisition process on behalf of both companies.

“The MultiDyne brand has long been associated with fiber optics, but as a company we excel at processing and moving media,” said Frank Jachetta, CEO, MultiDyne. “At IBC2019, we added audio processing and monitoring to our portfolio with the acquisition of Census Digital. Three years on, we head into IBC2022 with another strategic acquisition that takes MultiDyne into exciting new territory."

[MultiDyne Launches Advanced Power Extension Line for Fiber Camera Systems]

Jachetta stated that the Niagara Video business adds “proven hardware and pure software solutions to our in-house hardware portfolio” that will help the company proliferate media transport opportunities for its customers. That includes moving media from server-based engines and over more diverse network topologies, while ensuring seamless interoperability with a mix of industry protocols (HEVC, HLS, RTMP, SRT and more).

“We have expanded beyond dark fiber to moving content across the internet in different ways,” said Jachetta. “One example is how we can now reliably take video over the top (OTT), using open-protocol SRT transport for perfect video delivery. It’s about delivering broadcast-quality video over challenging networks for our customers.”

Jesse Foster, MultiDyne’s vice president of products, cited the growing esports market as well as AV business verticals, notably corporate and education, as business strengths of Niagara Video that will expand MultiDyne’s customer base. Foster also sees a natural expansion of its core broadcast and live production business into the REMI production space, and an opportunity to offer complete solutions for worship facilities.

[AV Network's top stories, product news, and expert insights] 

“This really opens MultiDyne to new verticals,” said Foster. “Compression is a necessary technology for remote connectivity, and Niagara’s portable GoStream encoders and decoders will provide our customers with the low-latency streaming and backhaul solutions they need for REMI production and live entertainment events. We see strong integration opportunities for MultiDyne fiber products with Niagara’s IPTV solutions, used widely today in the enterprise, corporate, government and hospitality markets. And we can now help our worship customers easily extend their signals from the sanctuary to external locations, thanks to clean integration between our fiber camera adapters, our fiber throwdowns, and Niagara’s live streaming solutions.”

Mike Galli, CEO, of Niagara Video Corporation, said that in addition to technology and in-house talent, the company broadens MultiDyne’s channel partner network through its own distributors and resellers worldwide. Galli will join the company as vice president of streaming products, and MultiDyne will retain Niagara’s existing staff. 

“We have built a network of channel partners with strong reputations that will help raise MultiDyne’s visibility in areas where they have less brand representation, including parts of Asia where Niagara Video has historically seen brisk business,” said Galli. “At the end of the day, we can help MultiDyne establish a robust streaming portfolio and bring them into the compression world with greater authority. And we at Niagara have always looked for the right partner to complete our vision. MultiDyne’s global presence, business reputation, and the range of customers and applications they support are all phenomenal.”

MultiDyne Video & Fiber Optic Systems returns to IBC with power extension in mind for camera operators seeking to free themselves from the limitations of SMPTE cable, and cleanly merge broadcast and digital cinema signal chains. The company’s new APE family achieves both by adding advanced power extension capability to MultiDyne’s SMPTE HUT and SilverBack systems via integrated DC power supplies.

MultiDyne developed the APE family to meet the needs of DC-powered cameras from leading vendors, and the devices are plug-and-play with automatic camera recognition. The HUT-APE frees camera chains from the limitations of hybrid copper and fiber cabling by enabling cameras to be separated from their CCUs. It achieves this by tricking the camera and CCU into seeing a physical copper connection. Content producers can then instead use affordable, conventional single-mode fiber, which brings added benefits such as improved performance (no RF, EMI, or grounding issues), accelerated set and strike times, and reduced weight for transport on OB trucks and within flypacks.

[Mush! MultiDyne SilverBullet Goes Dog Sledding in Alaska]

The HUT-APE offers long range power for DC-powered systems, broadening the range of camera manufacturers and types now supported. Content producers can now pair a HUT-APE with the latest high-end SMPTE studio cameras from Grass Valley, Panasonic, and Sony, and provide power from up to three kilometers away over SMPTE hybrid fiber. The HUT-APE can be paired with a companion throwdown power converter to provide 12 and 24-volt accessory power to lights, monitors and other production equipment in places where local power isn’t available.

The chain gets even more interesting when extending capability to include MultiDyne SilverBack fiber camera adapters. SilverBacks are fiber-optic camera adapter systems ideal for multi-cam production environments. MultiDyne’s latest SilverBack-V and SilverBack-VB systems specialize in converting digital cinema cameras into SMPTE studio cameras for live multi-camera productions, adding a cinematic feel to sports, TV and worship content, for example.

The SilverBack-APE is an advanced power extension adapter that includes multiple outputs, and integrates to the SilverBack series. It matches with camcorders or digital cinema cameras from any manufacturer, including the new 24-volt ALEXA35 camera from ARRI, which is quickly becoming very popular in the film production community. The APE lineup adds value by not only adapting 24-volt cameras from ARRI and other vendors to multi-camera productions, but also by powering Grass Valley, Panasonic, and Sony studio cameras. This makes it a great fit for the rental market.

Jesse Foster, director of product development and Western region sales for MultiDyne, added that the APE family line also opens a broad array of opportunities with other MultiDyne systems, empowering users with more flexible signal transport options.

[AV Network's top stories, product news, and expert insights] 

“The possibilities of the SMPTE camera chain are unleashed when the hybrid cable is removed,” said Foster. “For example, we can help customers simplify how they extend and multiplex cameras by using our FiberSaver system for wavelength shifting and multiplexing up to nine cameras on one strand of single-mode fiber. Our solutions are available as granular building blocks that can be combined to help customers design and build their ideal fiber transport networks.”

Foster added that an increasing amount of MultiDyne products are becoming available with rental houses worldwide including Europe and North America, in addition to being available to purchase directly through MultiDyne or its growing channel partner network. 

Art Aldrich, a partner at consultancy OTEK TV, has for several years ventured into the Alaskan tundra to cover the annual Iditarod Trail Sled Dog Race. This year, he sought to simplify his live production workflow with fiber-optic connectivity solutions from MultiDyne Video & Fiber Optic Solutions while maintaining the cinematic look and feel that are hallmarks of his production work.

OTEK TV specializes in corporate video production work and live streaming, and Aldrich first used MultiDyne products for some virtual corporate golf productions. “There are many logistics to consider when live streaming from a golf course, including satellite uplinks, and fiber is clearly the best route to these uplinks,” said Aldrich. “I was introduced to MultiDyne’s SilverBullet Series, which are very compact, interlocking devices for single-link transport from a camera. I then realized that these would be perfect for this crazy one-month job I have in Alaska each year.”

[MultiDyne Expands SilverBack Fiber Camera Adapter Series]

As Aldrich explains, the live streaming element is as important as his video production work for Iditarod. On a good year, approximately 100 dog teams enter the race, and subscribing fans want to see them all finish. The teams finish at various times over the course of a week.

Aldrich has used GoPro cameras with HDMI to SDI converters prior to this year’s race, with an SDI cable back to the control room. “That was a weak link because there are so many bits in the signal path,” he said. “I decided to upgrade to SDI cameras and put them on fiber. We ran one tactical fiber cable and dropped SilverBullets on both sides. They are simple to connect, lightweight, dependable and unaffected by cold weather.”

[Major League AV at Toronto's Rogers Centre] 

The weather-resistant reliability was especially important, as temperatures can reach 50 below Fahrenheit without factoring in the wind chill. Aldrich noted that every cable and connection in his previous setup was a failure point because of the brittleness of this equipment in such extreme cold weather. There is also the added benefit of the SilverBullets being unaffected by distance. 

“These are interlocking units that plug right into the camera cable,” he said. “It is one connection to power and one connection to fiber, with no limitations on distance. We are already hitting a limit of about 300 feet on the SDI coaxial cable, and the SilverBullet just makes everything simple. It shoots and delivers, and is easy to use.”

Aldrich adds that the SilverBullet includes small LED displays that provide much-needed confidence monitoring in the very cold weather. 

[The Nine 2022: Meet 9 Pro AV Superstars] 

“When we set up gear, we need to protect our hands from the cold, as the weather can cause permanent burn to skin if exposed for too long,” he said. “Having those little LEDs to confirm that we are connected and don’t have to fiddle with settings is a huge bonus. And we have master control technicians in the city hall to verify our signals are getting there, which they always do with MultiDyne.”

In the past couple of years, live performances have been greatly impacted by restrictions on audiences. Hardest hit have been venues for the arts that had little to no ability to produce video content for alternate distribution. The Cleveland Orchestra was no different.

Like many organizations with no video production ability, the Cleveland Orchestra looked at outside companies to come in and shoot a sometimes-smaller group of performers, so videos could be streamed across the internet to audiences at home. This worked for the first year, but the decision was made to install a permanent system to allow for continued video production, even post pandemic.

Kimaera Productions, led by Clyde Scott, is a consulting firm that specializes in innovative video and projection projects for leading arts organizations around the country. For the past 20 years, Scott has been the director of video for the New World Symphony on Miami Beach—a leading venue in concert presentation as well as video production—so designing a video system to capture orchestral performances was nothing new to him.

[Curtain Up on Audio]

The facility at New World has one of the largest in-house UHD production systems in the nation, including 30 UHD cameras, a 144x144 12G router, and a 64x48 UHD switcher. The video system at New World has been used for many productions, from its own orchestral performances to PBS specials, and even a national program on CBS in early 2021. 

I worked as chief video engineer for Scott at New World, and together we completed a multi-million redesign and UHD upgrade of the video and projection systems. I also continued working with him through Kimaera as he consulted with different orchestral organizations, including designing a new UHD video system for the San Francisco Symphony. When the opportunity to create a UHD video system for Cleveland Orchestra, Kimaera was thrilled for the opportunity.

Checklist of Challenges

The challenges were significant in many ways—including working in Severance Hall, a beautiful concert hall built nearly 100 years ago when video, let alone fiber, was only in sci-fi stories. Pandemic issues minimized work force as well as product availability. The turnaround time for completion was only a few months, because the ability to capture the upcoming season’s performance was a requirement. The UHD system needed “zero” visible latency. And the system had to be portable, so it could be used at the orchestra’s summer venue, the Blossom Music Center outdoor amphitheater.

Operational design was also a challenge. A large portion of the cameras would need to be robotically controlled, but the cabling couldn’t be so complicated that a half-day set-up wasn’t possible. After much consideration, the right solution was built on Panasonic’s ability to control its own gear via TCP/IP.

The project began with careful review of the facility to determine where a control room could live in a 90-year-old building, along with determining how to integrate a fiber infrastructure (both single mode and SMPTE) into the structure with no destruction of any of the incredible architecture. Camera locations for robotics had to be chosen so the 120+ strands of SM fiber could be laid, with power installed at these locations as well.

[DiGiCo Solutions Provide Minnesota Orchestra's Orchestra Hall Wide Ranging Flexibility]

Kimaera designed a system that would start with a permanent install of fiber and cabling with the first two of six racks in the future permanent tech core. Then came four portable racks, all with interconnecting harnesses and bulk service panels (BSPs) to allow easy connections when used at remote sites. Cleveland-based iVideo was selected to oversee the detailed design and drawings of the install under the technical leadership of Ed Strickland.

Since the system also would provide SMPTE time code to the existing audio department for Pro Tools recording, the sync generator design would include a primary and secondary with auto-changeover system. The primary sync generator would be in a portable rack with the switcher and router, while the secondary sync generator would live in a permanent rack with the auto-changeover system and fiber gear. As a result, time code could always be provided to the audio department, even when the portable video system and primary sync generator were on location. Due to Phase 1 limitations of no large-scale storage system (in the petabyte range), we lowered the frame rate to 29.97 in UHD.

The primary manufacturers involved included Panasonic, which provided a UHD switcher with 16/9 I/O, box camera, two ENG (manned) cameras, and seven PTZ cameras, as well as robotic controllers and the master shading system. Ross Video was selected for its sync generator, OpenGear frames, and Ultrix 12G 72x72 router. MultiDyne is used for 12G, sync, 422, and Ethernet over fiber. AJA provided some small 12G fiber gear and 10 Ki Pro Ultra 12G UHD recorders, while ClearCom was chosen for its TCP/IP based VoIP intercom system.

In the Amphitheater

Four portable “production racks” and a single “tech rack” make up the portable system. Designed for the director and TD, the first rack houses the router, switcher, and primary sync generator, plus a router control, two TV Logic UHD monitors, and intercoms. The second rack, a double producer/score reader station, includes four KiPro UHD recorders, two TV Logic monitors, and router control.

The third rack features two robotic controller stations, with one equipped with a programmable Tecnopoint control system, plus the necessary intercom, monitors, etc. The fourth rack is the shading rack, with master shading and a third robotic controller, as well as additional gear and two CCUs for the manned cameras. The tech rack holds additional MultiDyne gear for 12G-to-fiber conversion.

All racks include intercom panels, 1Gig network switches, bulk service panels for interconnects, UPSs and power distribution, router control, and full UHD monitoring. Since intercom is VoIP and the production gear is all based on TCP/IP, the system was designed to keep isolation between the router/video network and intercom networks.

The critical aspect related to the choice of Panasonic was the ability for the master shading panel and the three robotic controllers to receive full tally info from the switcher, plus for robotics and shading to control auxiliary outputs of the switcher so that any cameras selected on their respective panels would automatically switch the appropriate aux output and feed that signal to their monitor. Between the tally function and automatic video switch selection to the monitor, all over TCP/IP control, this greatly simplified wiring by negating the need for GPIO interfacing.

A Question of Cables

When working with UHD in the 12G world, the consideration is always keeping any copper to a length far below what manufacturers may suggest for distance limitations. You also need to be sure all BNCs and cable are specifically rated for 12G, and that no cable ties or turn impact the integrity of the copper cable. Cable length will vary based on which cable is used, but generally speaking, most copper connections are all kept under 200 feet, with all distance runs done over single-mode (SM) fiber.

Due to the nature of the remote system and distance variation from control room to cameras, single mode tactical fiber on 1,500-foot spools allow for flexibility to the stage cameras, and the EFP manned cameras use the standard SMPTE LEMO fiber system. This allows the flexibility needed when this system goes to remote locations, such as Blossom Music Center.

The concert hall installation utilizes multi-conductor reels that interface with side and backstage BSPs tied to the MultiDyne gear, and this system is duplicated in a portable configuration as well. The multi-conductor reels include 12G video cable, sync, and Ethernet (with POE++). To maintain signal stability, the reels are 125 feet with 20-foot interfacing cables (between the side of the reel and the bulk service panel). These reels are also used in the portable configuration to get the signal from the stage to the offstage fiber interface locations.

Since unscripted live portable productions present more challenges for robotics, the system was pre-wired for a third CCU and third manned EFP camera. This allows the portable configuration to use up to six robotic cameras (with one on a Tecnopoint track for horizontal movement using its Tuning Floor Dolly, plus vertical movement with its Totem 50 robotic pedestal), plus three manned EFP cameras. The same 10 AJA KiPro Ultra 12G recorders are available for use with the system whether used in-house or portable.

We look forward to taking this system on the road for both content recording and I-MAG (image magnification) use. And we’re already planning ahead for Phase II, which will include a permanently installed control room.

MultiDyne Video & Fiber Optic Solutions has rewarded the stellar contributions of two rising stars in the company, Jesse Foster and Matt Watkins, with promotions to key executive positions, effective immediately. Both report to CEO Frank Jachetta, with expanded responsibilities focused on the company’s daily business operations and strategic company direction moving forward.

“MultiDyne has always valued long-term employee retention and encouraged promotion from within,” said Jachetta. “Matt has spent his entire professional career here, and his talents have touched nearly every department over 14 remarkable years. Jesse came to us several years ago with strong industry pedigree and made an immediate impact on how we market and position our fiber solutions, while bringing MultiDyne into new product areas and business verticals. These are well-deserved promotions that set the stage for our next generation of business growth.”

[MultiDyne Expands SilverBack Fiber Camera Adapter Series]

Foster joined MultiDyne in 2018 from Cobalt Digital as director, product development and Western U.S. sales, and now takes on the newly formed vice president of product development position. He will continue to drive MultiDyne’s product innovation into new directions while raising the company’s public profile and brand recognition. 

Since joining MultiDyne, Foster's product development achievements include the launch of a new compression and OTT product line, and new models for existing flagship production lines such as its SilverBack fiber camera adapters. His careful approach emphasizes more focused feature sets and system designs across all product lines—a trait that he will carry into related responsibilities such as product marketing. Foster will work to refine product lines as well as marketing materials, including a new website, to bring greater clarity and visibility to the company and its message.

[MultiDyne Chief Operating Officer Bob McAlpine Retires]

Foster will also retain his Western U.S. sales territory, reporting to Watkins for all sales activities and Jachetta on product development initiatives.

“I have always enjoyed the camaraderie working with customers, and the reconnaissance missions that help them solve problems and open new windows of business opportunity,” said Foster. “I am lucky to continue on at MultiDyne in this dual-capacity role that also elevates my responsibilities around company strategy and innovation.” 

[Employee Retention—Before “I Quit”]

Watkins came to MultiDyne from the consumer electronics world in 2008 as an inside sales manager, where he learned the professional broadcast and production business from the ground up. His trajectory has now taken him from that entry-level position to vice president of sales, following 12 years as sales and systems design manager. 

In his new role, Watkins will oversee all global sales and business development initiatives, with regional sales teams and channel partners reporting to him. That includes Sebastian Mucha, director of business development, EMEA Region, and Michael Jordan, who came to MultiDyne through its Census Digital acquisition and has been promoted to director of business development, CALA and APAC.

[Viewpoint: Customer Service Can Make or Break Your Business]

Watkins will also continue to head Eastern U.S. sales, a job he assumed in 2018, serving as Foster's sales counterpart east of the Mississippi River. He will also take on increasing responsibilities in marketing communications. 

“Throughout my career at MultiDyne I have served as a liaison between many different areas of the company, particularly as our products grew more advanced in recent years,” said Watkins. “We have transitioned as a company that sold boxes to one that sells full solutions, and I have been actively involved in bringing well-integrated systems together for our customers. This is a unique opportunity to apply that knowledge to our global sales operation as we work to increase our worldwide brand visibility and market share.”

The entertainment professionals at Digital Cinema Collective say they create exceptional productions with a smile. Those smiles have broadened since adding SilverBack-V fiber camera adapters from MultiDyne Video & Fiber Optic Solutions to its live production model.

The creative professionals responsible for diverse productions such as the Democratic National Convention Digital Production and ABC holiday specials have utilized several MultiDyne SilverBack models, and simplified how they bring digital cinema cameras into broadcast TV productions.

“We specialize in multi-camera TV shows that capture a cinematic feel,” said Aaron Cooke, CEO, Digital Cinema Collective (DCC). “That means using digital cinema cameras from Sony, ARRI, Panasonic and others with a variety of cinema lensing to enhance any broadcast production with a film aesthetic. The SilverBack systems help us incorporate these cameras into the broadcast workflow, which has not historically been easy to accomplish.”

The SilverBack-V and SilverBack-4K5 both convert digital cinema cameras into SMPTE studio cameras for live multi-camera productions. Adaptable to any digital cinema or broadcast camera, both systems multiplex video, audio and data signals for multi-camera 4K/UHD productions onto a single tactical or SMPTE hybrid fiber cable—with robust connectivity and remote powering.

[ MultiDyne Expands SilverBack Fiber Camera Adapter Series ]

James Coker, Technical Engineer, who has used the SilverBack-4K5 on many large multi-camera shows including the widely seen live broadcast of last year’s Super Bowl Halftime Show, said: “We have pushed the envelope with the 4K5 in 110-degree heat, and they held up incredibly well in extreme heat and direct sunlight. It’s amazing to think that with all the added processing power of the SilverBack-V, they somehow stay even cooler in the outdoor heat.”

Up and Running in Less Than Half the Time

Beyond being camera-agnostic, Coker points to two SilverBack benefits as particularly helpful: quick-set up, and network connectivity. “We do live-to-air and live-to-tape events, which have different yet challenging timeline demands,” he said. “I can now get a 10-camera production up and running in four-to-six hours, compared to what used to take up to two days. The SilverBack-V has a more direct mounting interface that makes camera adaption even faster. From there it’s just pulling all the feeds from the I/O of the cameras, including SDI 12G, 6G, and 3G signals, as well as sync, timecode, power, audio, intercom and other important elements for the editors.”

Coker adds that MultiDyne’s 12G throughput and fiber-optic connectivity make it easy to manage cameras across multiple locations for live productions. He points to a recent large corporate event from a global provider of Internet-related services and products as an example of how MultiDyne makes complex shoots efficient. 

“We had 12 cameras for the main show and six remote cameras in other states, and we used the SilverBack to send everything over fiber and into the cloud for a three-hour event,” he said. “This is a show that has been done for 10 years and was enormously complex. Now we can provide everything back to the truck over the network with livegrade instead of RCPs. We brought the cinema world to multi-camera along with all the power to do everything with live control.”

Jesse Foster, Director of Product Development and Western Region Sales, confirms that MultiDyne evolved the SilverBack series specifically to support the advanced broadcast cinematic production requirements of 4K resolution, HDR and Wide Color Gamut, as well as 24fps support for film-like motion blur as well as high frame-rate acquisition for slow motion. “We are providing our customers with quick-set up, camera adaptability and flexible networking in ways that help them easily achieve their storytelling goals with greater cinematic emotion.” 

Cooke confirms that both SilverBack models will play significant roles in future live and recorded productions. He noted that the SilverBack-V was used for several holiday specials that aired over the 2021 holiday season and would be used for this year’s Super Bowl Halftime show. 

“These systems have completely changed the look and feel of these shows, and elevated the overall production quality for our clients,” said Cooke. “This has been a gamechanger for our high-end clients that are seeing something very different than what they were previously used to and commenting that they never thought they could achieve this level of quality.”

For the 25th year, CP Communications managed end-to-end content acquisition for the TCS New York City Marathon. Now in its 49th year, the TCS New York City Marathon is the world’s largest marathon and the signature event of New York Road Runners (NYRR), the world’s premier community running organization. The race course begins in Staten Island and winds its way through Brooklyn, Queens, and the Bronx before finishing in Manhattan in Central Park.

Over the past four years, as bandwidth and network availability have improved, CP Communications has gradually reduced its reliance on traditional RF technology to cover the race in favor of more cost-efficient IP and bonded cellular systems. CP Communications this year completed that transition, leveraging a 100-percent IP and bonded cellular networking infrastructure for live coverage of the men’s and women’s races across all five boroughs.

The company brought back many of the same platforms and technologies that have proved successful in recent years, while making strategic changes to the technical infrastructure and production workflows to ensure reliable coverage throughout the entire 26.2-mile course. Utilizing the expansive fiber network throughout NYC allowed CP Communications to increase flexibility at all locations, and further reduced reliance on traditional video transmission circuits.

Four cars and three motorcycles were equipped with stabilized mounts and lenses, with an additional POV camera for talent installed on two of the cars. Mobile Viewpoint Agile Airlink encoders captured and streamed the live action via bonded cellular with bandwidth-efficient H.265/HEVC video encoding back to CP Communications HD-21 production truck, located at the finish line. Agile Airlinks were also utilized on two rooftop locations in Brooklyn and Manhattan, and at three REMI (Remote Integration Model) production locations in Brooklyn, Manhattan, and the Bronx. The rooftop sites also leveraged traditional microwave links as backup transmission for cellular-congested areas at the start and finish lines. The Agile Airlinks at the REMI sites captured live interviews with racers, NYRR spokespeople, and other subjects over the course of the day.

For the first time, CP Communications added a Mobile Viewpoint 2K4 playout server at each rooftop and REMI site, allowing technical personnel to route any signal between any of those five locations. The same technology was added to each vehicle, which CP Communications technical manager Frank Rafka describes as an important first for this event.

“Having return video to the cars over the entire course was an important step forward, and overall we had a valuable return system to move video, audio, and other signals between all of our acquisition points,” Rafka said. “This was one of the biggest changes to the infrastructure this year, as we could seamlessly monitor all locations and dynamically make changes as necessary—a major benefit of managing IP encoding in the cloud. The hotspots and cellular networks associated with Mobile Viewpoint technology made it very easy to achieve.”

Rafka added that the Mobile Viewpoint systems allowed CP Communications to send IFB return to each vehicle and REMI site. This enabled the team to communicate with talent seamlessly across all locations. Microphones were embedded locally at each site, which allowed all the audio to remain in lip sync with the video.

Vehicle and REMI audio were managed and delivered to the broadcasters via a Dante network, which was managed on board HD-21. CP Communications utilized RTS OMNEO intercoms to link HD-21 to the host broadcaster, which allowed seamless communications throughout the TV broadcast compound. CP Communications separately used a Unity Intercom system deployed over the cellular network, allowing NYRR personnel and spotters along the course to communicate with the broadcast compound.

All video and audio signals were delivered from HD-21 to an NEP broadcast truck at the finish line using a MultiDyne VF-9000 fiber transmission system. On board HD-21, CP Communications personnel monitored bitrates and dataflow from all Agile Airlink devices, as well as signals leaving the truck through its 24x24 routing infrastructure. NEP produced world feed uplinks as well the domestic national broadcast for ESPN2.

CP Communications CEO Kurt Heitmann noted that his team wrote software to interpret data and GPS locations from 28 inbound signals to HD-21, which, when transposed over a Google map, provided valuable information as the race moved into areas and zones with more challenging cellular coverage.

“These technologies and workflows, along with overall better network bandwidth and availability, made it possible to leverage a 100-percent modern network infrastructure to cover this year’s event,” Heitmann said. “Collectively, we continue to push the envelope using traditional technology mixed with secure, reliable, and cost-efficient IP and bonded cellular systems.”

The What: MultiDyne Fiber Optic Solutions will introduce its new BULLET series (formerly SilverBULLET) of miniature, rugged, fiber-optic link products at the 2019 NAB Show. In addition to the 12G-capable BULLET for high-bandwidth video launched at IBC, MultiDyne will introduce a Dante-enabled BULLET for digital audio—also capable of Ethernet transport—at NAB. Both innovations will be on display at Booth C5013 in the Las Vegas Convention Center from April 8-11.

The What Else: The latest BULLET transmitters and receivers unveil a significant design transformation that aims to accelerate deployment and streamline systems management. These improvements include interlocked mounting, centralized power, and built-in OLED monitoring—all design enhancements from previous generations that improve ease of use. All BULLET products remain highly portable and economical, making them equally useful for fixed links or last-minute video and audio feeds.

“The BULLET delivers rock-solid reliability for permanent or long-term links, and brings exceptional value for temporary signal extension in studios, compounds, and mobile production applications,” said Frank Jachetta, president, MultiDyne. “Its portability, flexibility and ruggedness makes the product ideal for emergency situations, whether to repair a connection or address an unexpected transport requirement. No solution of its kind can scale as quickly and cost-efficiently to support changing signal requirements.”

Shipping soon, MultiDyne’s 12G BULLET solves the problem of high-bandwidth, single-link transport to and from any video source. Measuring three inches in length, the 12G BULLET connects to the back of any camera, monitor, or other video source, with the ability to add more units without additional power cabling. A camera operator with four video outputs can interlock four units together, and support a multichannel production off of a single power supply without the need for multiple wall warts.

The new BULLET for Dante and Ethernet adds another layer of efficiency to field and mobile production teams managing digital audio feeds over long distances. The common interlocked mounting capability across both products means that users have a quickly scalable and problem-solving option for video, audio, and Ethernet feeds in the field. The interlocked mounting innovation, along with centralized power distribution, are key differentiators from previous BULLET generations and competitive products.

“The Dante and Ethernet BULLET is an ideal problem-solver in scenarios where standard Cat-5 doesn’t quite do the job for moving digital audio to a studio or truck from a distant acquisition point,” Jachetta said. “This solution provides a clean Ethernet connection to move Ethernet or Dante audio over fiber. When used with our 12G BULLET, our customers have very inexpensive Lego-like pieces to build a video and audio transport chain that fits into the palm of a hand. They operate from a single power supply once clipped together due to integrated power distribution.”

The 12G BULLET integrates cable equalization and re-clocking techniques to optimize signal integrity across all short- and long-distance transport needs, removing the presence of jitter from existing signals. Integrated OLED monitoring adds value through consistent readings of jitter rates, signal type, optimal power and more. 

The Bottom Line: BULLET products are available with a special 1RU tray capable of housing up to 24 devices, and support 12G SDI rates down to 5Mbps. This makes the BULLET series well suited for virtually any broadcast and AV-related field acquisition need, from high-end sports production and pre-fibered venues to courtesy feeds, confidence monitoring, and distance learning.

The What: MultiDyne Fiber Optic Solutions will refresh its SilverBack series of camera-mounted fiber transport solutions at the 2019 NAB Show with three additions to serve a range of live production needs, including one aimed at the commercial AV market.

The What Else: The SilverBack V facilitated the convergence of fiber and IP-based production workflows upon its introduction in 2018. The industry’s first 12G- and 4K-capable camera-back system to incorporate an IP output, according to the company, the SilverBack V offers a gateway to multipoint IP networks, enabling users to move field-acquired content to many destinations. Broadcasters and content producers can send video, audio, and data captured on location to studios, post houses, and mobile production trucks at once, for example.

The SilverBack V remains the company’s high-end option for broadcast and digital cinema customers working with Ultra HD resolutions. Its optimized bandwidth efficiency reliably accommodates the high data rates that live 4K and 8K productions require—a substantial benefit for live sports, concerts, and motion picture productions.

New for NAB, MultiDyne has added power management capabilities to the SilverBack V that eliminates the need for external power supplies. This will prove especially valuable for camera operators and cinematographers for powering focus, iris, and zoom directly from the unit without risk of power supply failure. The compact, lightweight design also supports two camera heads that are configurable to today’s leading cameras, with a common, integrated multiviewer to monitor both cameras.

MultiDyne will additionally introduce the SilverBack HP, a reimagined version of the SilverBack II fiber transceiver that adds two-channel intercom and Ethernet alongside video, audio, and data. Like its predecessor, the SilverBack HP provides robust, full-bandwidth fiber-optic links for 3G, HD and SDI signals from the field to a truck, control room, or other receive point along with genlock, tally, and audio.

MultiDyne will also extend the operational benefits of SilverBack to commercial AV and smaller event productions for the first time with SilverBack Pro. The SilverBack Pro offers the same engineering innovation, live production benefits, and ease of use associated with all SilverBack products at a much lower cost. This provides worship facilities, corporations, and K-12/higher education systems with a highly configurable camera-back fiber transport system to cover live performances, presentations, lectures, and high school/college sports at an affordable price point.

MultiDyne president Frank Jachetta noted that the popularity of the SilverBack line inspired the company to diversify the product line, with specific models and price points that can serve a much broader customer base.

“All three of our next-generation SilverBack systems integrate the same user-friendly features, interfaces and menus, with just the right amount of signal density and networking capabilities to serve each price point,” Jachetta said. “Whether the customer is using SilverBack for professional AV applications, cinematography, or the largest, mission-critical live broadcasts, the model that suits their needs will offer the same flexible, project-to-project configurability for their signal acquisition goals in the field.”

The Bottom Line: The updated series, anchored by the now-shipping, IP-enabled SilverBack V, includes the global debut of two models that extend MultiDyne’s reach into new production verticals. MultiDyne will demonstrate all three systems at Booth C5013 from April 8-11 at the Las Vegas Convention Center.

The What: MultiDyne Fiber Optic Solutions has designated IBC2018 as the European debut of SilverBack V, the latest in its SilverBack series of camera-mounted fiber transport solutions.

The What Else: The industry’s first 12G- and 4K-capable camera-back system to incorporate an IP output, according to the company, the SilverBack V enables the convergence of fiber and IP-based production workflows while building on the flexibility and robustness of the SilverBack family. MultiDyne will demonstrate the SilverBack V at IBC2018 from September 14-18 at Stand 11.D40 at the RAI Convention and Exhibition Centre in Amsterdam.

“While point-to-point transport over dark fiber continues to offer the greatest bandwidth efficiencies for the high data rates needed in live 4K and 8K productions, the adoption of IP-based networks in broadcast and production workflows is accelerating,” said Frank Jachetta, president, MultiDyne. “SilverBack V seamlessly converges the advantages of fiber transport with a gateway to multipoint IP networking, protecting customers’ long-term investments while delivering immediate, practical benefits today.”

In addition to its future-friendly IP capabilities, SilverBack V also brings several new features and benefits to fiber users in markets ranging from electronic newsgathering (ENG) and live sports coverage to motion picture productions and other remote contribution applications. SilverBack V supports both single-link 12G and quad-link 3G SDI connectivity, maximizing 4K Ultra HD signal interface flexibility.

The SilverBack V base station supports two camera heads simultaneously, enabling cost effectiveness and space savings. A built-in multiviewer provides live monitoring of both camera feeds, with audio monitoring available as an option.

The space-efficiency of the dual-camera base station is paralleled by the reduced width of the SilverBack V camera-back unit, which makes it the most compact unit in the SilverBack family to date. The significantly narrower design enables a much lighter camera-back load and eases operator mobility while still ensuring proper overall weight balance between the camera-back, body, and lens. MultiDyne is also working closely with camera vendors including Sony, Panasonic, Canon, JVC, and more to develop specific SilverBack V designs tailored to the connection points, color, texture, and ergonomics of each camera.

In addition to supporting 12Gbps and 3Gbps connections, SilverBack V also combines 1.5Gbps video, audio, intercom, camera control, tally, data, and power onto a single tactical cable, SMPTE hybrid fiber cable, and/or IP network connection. Integrated expansion slots support a variety of interchangeable I/O connectivity modules for frictionless interoperability with other MultiDyne fiber transport systems and third-party products.

The Bottom Line: MultiDyne’s extensive range of SilverBack camera-back transceivers are designed to help simplify infrastructures, enhance connection flexibility, and provide the high-bandwidth performance needed by Ultra HD formats. SilverBack V adds to this powerful fiber transport foundation by integrating an IP Gateway into the SilverBack V base station, enabling users to deliver content to studios and mobile production vehicles over both SDI and IP network connectivity.