Technological innovations in news production

The development of automation in newsrooms has been highlighted during this year mainly by the optimization in the cache interface (high-speed memory) of the disk.

It is clear that the role of the video file server is more than that of an external device. On the contrary, it is the center that brings together the capabilities of the automation system, offering multichannel playout, random access, storage at scale and variable compression ranges. If we look at what the automation of the future will look like, we will have to pay a lot of attention to the cache interface, to ensure that you have the flexibility to expand your system and thus meet the requirements of your business.

Alamar's MC-2095, shown during NAB '96, uses an intelligent distribution design to control all formats of VTR, laser disc recorders, cartridge cases, character generator, switchers, routers (routing switchers) and satellite sources. The improved MSL-400 and MC-207E were also introduced. The MSL-400, an intelligent interface controller, based on LAN (Local Area Network), allows the user to download or upload events to the server of a machine that is already on the air. This feature allows you to save events to disk before going on the air and provides the Alamar system with another degree of redundancy in case the main computer fails. The MC-2075E is a PC-based multi-channel and multi-event platform that can handle a maximum of 32 independent channels on the air controlling up to 256 devices, while handling play list with a total of 9999 events per list.

Avid offers an open architecture for over-the-air playback, supported by the Open Media Framework which gives the opportunity to integrate with other systems such as the Panasonic DVC format and open access to digital news files. Avid announced that its over-the-air playback control software is migrating into an open architecture environment. This development will split the application in two in the on-air playback in an application control and a separate engine, allowing to control the commercial and promotional playback on the Hewlett Packard Media Stream, MPEG-2 video server. Additionally , Avid and Panasonic announce a strengthened integration of DVCPRO technology with the adoption of the Open Media Framework as the On Disk file format for DVC. Avid considered that the DVCPRO is a good choice for high-quality fieldwork and cost-effectiveness for the production of news in a DNG (Digital News Gathering) scheme. Inside the newsroom, Avid offers AvidNews, which is the next generation in the automation system.

In addition to consolidating these new features of NetSation and News View, AvidNews includes an active management system from IBM. This system gives journalists the ability to investigate and access archived video and make cut stories from their desktop computer. In addition, the latest versions of the Avid NetStation and NewsView software come with new features such as the composition of WEB pages, that is, the possibility of handling value-added services over the Internet.

Leitch has introduced event automation software, Event WORKS that allows the user of a PC two separate types of control: time-based event execution, sequential event execution with programmable delays. Various operations can now be scheduled to occur without anyone being present according to the user's schedule. The product integrates and simplifies router control, machine control, GPls and LogoMotion into one easy-to-operate package.

Leightronix demonstrated its complete line of control systems for automated VCRs and switcher control solutions for broadcast, cable and closed-circuit TV markets. Event controllers range from the Mini-T.Pro for 16 devices with an internal mixer of 8x1 audio and video cameras to Pro 8 and Pto 16 with event control to 16 VCRs with internal 8x3 or 16x4 switchers.

Quantel demonstrated MemexcSoftware products such as Landscape, Icon and Opticon in interface with the Clipbox system. Landscape automation software combines card machine control with disk storage and random access systems. Landscape can control switchers, VTRs, digital effects, and subtitle systems through a standard interface that allows event editing. The monitoring system is displayed by video outputs and user workstations and includes a schedule of on-air events, alarm and status indicator, transports and digital discs.

Today's EGN cameras are distinguished by being smaller, lighter, compatible and less expensive.

Panasonic showed during NAB '96 a wide range of cameras including the new AQ-23W DSP. The unit is interchangeable between 4:3 and 16:9 operation, giving 18 Mhz sampling, 10-bit and 36 Mhz digital conversion, and 16-bit processing. Designed for ENG/EFP (Electronic News Gathering and Electronic Field Production) operation.

Key additions to the D3 Composite equipment line include the AJ-D300 all-digital camcorder and the AJ-D360 digital studio VTR. These two units formed the primary editing basis for NBC's coverage of the Olympic Games. The AJ-D700 is a DVCPRO camcorder whose features are, 20-bit digital signal processing, consumes less than 23W and weighs less than 13 pounds with lenses and battery. It also brings a full range of controls, scene storage, and a 1.5-inch viewfinder.

The new VW-E590 is a 3CCD DSP camera, low light, primarily designed for news, graphics, teleconferencing and medical imaging. This camera is capable of operating under extreme low light conditions, up to 0.0035lux.

Of note here is the Panasonic DVCPRO laptop editor, the AJ-LT75, an all-in-one that includes two DVCPRO VTRs, two 6.5-inch color monitors in stereo speakers and a full cut-only editor, in a compact package that weighs less than 20 pounds. This unit can perform edits with audio split, inserts, assemble and autoassemble.

Philips, manufacturer of studio cameras showed the camera compatible with DVCPRO, the LDK 750 for eng applications.

Ikegami: scored a hit with the new DVCPRO HL-V77 series of cameras, Both the HL-V77, the V77W and the V73, are portable cameras/recorders, all wn one, with built-in DVCPRO VCRs.

Ikegami's DNG disk-based camera released at NAB '95 still generates a lot of interest, as it has advantages for the tape it cannot offer as camCutter's Retro Loop recording. Avid was responsible for bringing this product to market, being compatible with all its editing systems.

Sony introduced the SC series of camcorders complemented by the DNW-7, DNW-90 and DNW-90WS models, which when using the basic level of MPEG-2-4:2:2 compression are perfect for ENG applications. It's all part of Sony's proposal to create integrated DNG systems based on Digital Studio Profile. The DNW-7 is the company's most economical version, while the DNW-90 offers low-light, high-response capabilities for ENG/EFP applications.

In the Battle of the Titans Sony introduced the DVCAM series of products. The DXC-D30 is a camera capable of being fitted to a dock. It becomes the DSR-130 when anchored with a DSR-1 VTR.

Sony's DSR-200 digital camcorder is the professional version of the recently introduced DV format. This camera is primarily intended for the professional videography market.

JVC is focusing on its low-light cameras, the KY-17C and KY-19. These popular cameras perform very well especially when conditions inferior to those of the studio prevail. Operating it at 1lux is possible, with a sensitivity of F9.0 to 2000lux and 63 dB.

Hitachi Denshi America surprised with its SK 2600 PW portable camera and a microwave digital link system.

Spectacles

Automation in the handling of cameras was demonstrated by Canon. The appeal is Pentium-based software that controls the panning and tilt functions, allowing the Canon VC-C1 to automatically follow a moving object within the camera's field of view. Product of this type can also reach study applications.

On the more traditional front Canon showed its 70x digital lenses whose feature is the 70x zoom radius. This has an magnification of more than 33% compared to the popular canon 55x in the field of lenses.

The IS-20B image stabilizer adapter incorporates vari-angle Prism technology. It is designed to be mounted in front of the 120aX8B zoom lenses and the H20aX6Eng half-inch zoom lens. The J9ax5.2 IRS/IAS is designed for ENG applications where a wide angle is needed. Especially suitable for tight spaces, its wide angle allows the cameraman to obtain a field of view of 80.5 degrees at focal lengths from 5.2 mm to 47 mm.

Using the company's Aspheric (AT) technology, Fujinon showcased the 18x series of handheld lenses. These have the advantages of more expensive lenses but with Aspheric technologies and moderate cost.

The Fujinon AH70X9.5 is a lens for high zoom range EFP applications. Designed for use in covering sports and OB applications, it is very popular.

Also highlighted are the Fujinon A36X10, 5RD ENG lens and the A36X14.5 with extensive focal length and wide-angle coverage, which are aimed at meeting the needs of many in news, sports and other VET applications.

Nikon released its S20X8 telephoto lens for 2/3-inch ENG/EFP cameras. These lenses complete the company's new product line that includes the standard $15X8.5 B1-III lens and the 59.6X5.5 B1-II wide-angle lens.

As for the presence of mobile ENG units during NAB '96, there was a growing demand for smaller vehicles, easy to operate, but efficient. Some new equipment and tricks were also shown to eliminate some of the problems faced by ENG mobile unit operators.

We started our tour with Harris Allied's ENG mobile unit division. The M-1 ENG meets all requirements for ENG even for news operations where the budget is low. Available with different chassis types, the equipment is the typical 1-ton van type van. Its interior, walls and ceiling are acoustically insulated. In addition, it has an anti-tank roof, an optional support on the back to mount a camera and more spaces on the shelves (racks) for the accumulation of equipment over the years. Harris' other mobile unit is the S-235-FP, for field production. It is a perfect combination of small space, five digital cameras for satellite link production.

California Microwave Satellite Transmission Systems introduced its new NewsTrek vehicle for DSNG (Digital Satellite News Gathering). It is a robust mobile unit designed for any terrain and multifunctional considered as a standard passenger vehicle with conventional weight that does not require any special license.

NewsTrek mobile units come with all the requirements for immediate work: Link Ku DSNG band with 1.2 meter motorized antenna; satellite control and monitoring; video and audio equipment; monitoring; digital or analog recorders and players; cameras; lights and accessories. In addition, an onboard power generator allows you to get ready to operate on the way to an assignment, being able to go on the air 10 minutes after arriving at the news site.

The A-11 ENG/EFP Mobile Units of the Advantage series from Shook Electronics are fully supplied and self-powered vehicles, ready for ENG (Electronic News Gathering, or EFP( Electronic Field Production). Each unit can accommodate up to three cameras, 2-3 1/2-inch VTRs mounted on a shelf, plus a complete video and audio equipment. The power generator provides advanced technique and utility for the operation of all production equipment on board. The A-11 mobile unit is divided into two areas of operation: production and front-end transmission; and the generator, cable rolls and storage equipment in the back. The work area is insulated on the walls and ceiling with acoustic material.

WolfCoach introduced ENG Benchmark-2's mobile unit that includes innovations such as a simplified power panel that operates basically as an off-and-off switch. It also has a movable sun roof for more space.

BAF Communications introduced a wide variety of mobile units, from a small ENG special built on a Ford Aerostar mini-van, to a huge 8-rack, 30,000-pound lightweight. The first is the ENG-16 Aerostar with thermal and acoustic insulation, with selective switch to use the internal generator or an external power source, camera holder, tripod tube and stand to charge the camera battery. Also noteworthy is the ENG/EFP-20 built on a Ford E-350 with 4 racks with console.

Calumet Coach confirmed its experience of more than 50 years in the design and manufacture of mobile 100% digital TV production units. Its vehicles include details such as: expanded lateral and rear sections of automatic deployment that provide great increase in interior useful space; custom-built video and audio bridges, audio rooms isolated from noise; air suspensions for the protection of electronic equipment against vibration during movement and air conditioning and distribution systems designed for each unit.