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Olympic glory for Tait Technologies Digital Signage – the right information in all the right places Fighting corruption in the boardroom Video arraignment for awaiting trial detainees See us at
Movie magic comes with a digital wrapper Record projection at Buckingham Palace
www.fujifilm.eu/fujinon
A 19x zoom with everything you could wish for
Visit us in Amsterdam, IBC 2012, Booth 11.C20, 7 – 11 September 2012
Find out more technical details now
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The new HA19 x 7.4B from Fujinon Now there’s nothing more to wish for. With Fujinon’s exclusive GO-Technology, a combination of state-ofthe-art glass materials and EBC-Coating, this new lens offers exceptionally high image resolution from centre to corner and the lowest distortion in its class. The HA19 x 7.4B with a 2.2 x extender is the best present you could ever give yourself. Fujinon. To see more is to know more.
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Contents AV Specialist Volume 123
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Everything I Know I Learned From Live Events One of the first things actors have to learn (aside from their lines) is what to do when another actor misses a cue. The answer is improvise, but actors have to make improvisational choices within the context of the scene and with a complete understanding of what is supposed to happen next.
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AV remand system introduced to SA courtrooms Video communication is increasingly common throughout legal systems worldwide. It spans facilities and applications, including video arraignment from jail, virtual visitation in prisons, and remote testimony in courtrooms and judges’ chambers.
18 During August the eye's of the world focussed on London for the Summer Olympics. South African athletes celebrated with 6 medals and Oscar Pistorius reached the semi-finals of the 400m race - becoming the first athlete to compete in both the Olympic and Paralympic Games.
Publisher & Managing Editor Kevan Jones kevan@avspecialist.tv Feature Editor Dick Hobbs dick@avspecialist.tv Editor Bev Kempster bev@avspecialist.tv Circulation Renate Mortimer renate@avspecialist.tv
Planet RadioTV combines the best of radio and TV Planet Image Productions have launched Planet RadioTV (PRTV), Africa’s first RadioTV offering, based in Johannesburg. PRTV
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Tait's engulfs entire Olympic stadium moving images The opening ceremony of the London 2012 Olympic Games saw the main stadium transformed into a huge array of LED video pixels, mapped to the space inhabited by the entire audience.
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Soweto Theatre lights up with ETC In the dark days of apartheid South Africa, theatre was one of the most important means of exposing racist rule. And now, with the opening of the stunning Soweto Theatre in Johannesburg, it has become important once again.
Publisher’s Note
Designer Rajiv Gopalan rajiv@avspecialist.tv
With IBC coming up shortly I thought I’d use my column as a short promo for the event and encourage all our readers to participate. IBC is well known as an exhibition for broadcast technology and that’s certainly one of its
Advertising sales Africa, Middle East, UK Lorna MacLeod lorna@avspecialist.tv
key features, but the IBC convention goes so much further than the exhibition floor. Three of the key areas for me are the awards programme, the conference programme and the social networking activities that take place – not only on the
Europe Emmanuel Archambeaud earchambeaud@defcommunication.com Represented in the Middle East by: AV Specialist MENA FZ LLC PO Box 502314, Dubai United Arab Emirates Represented in South Africa by: Doddington Direct cc PO Box 3939, Honeydew, 2040, South Africa Tel: +27 (0)11 083-6418 Fax: +27 (0)86 525 3852 Represented in Europe by: Def & Communication 48 Bd Jean-Jaurès, 92110 Clichy, France Tel: +33 (0)1 4730 7180 Fax: +33 (0)1 4730 0189
show floor but also in the many hotspots that seem to attract delegates as the sun dips below the yardarm. From the highly sought after Innovation Awards to the celebrated International Honour for Excellence, the IBC Awards gives the industry's finest the opportunity celebrate great achievements and elevates the winners to the world stage: news of the IBC Awards is picked up by the media from all over the globe. These prestigious Awards encapsulate everything that is positive about electronic media and entertainment, highlighting collaboration and those who push the boundaries. Past winners include Manolo Romero, Managing Director, Olympic Broadcasting Services, ESPN, FIFA, Sony, BSkyB and Sir David Attenborough, so if you get a chance, try and attend the glittering IBC Awards Ceremony on Sunday 9 September. The conference programme is also world class. It attracts the industry’s most influential and authoritative speakers. Join in this 6-day programme packed with headline-grabbing keynotes, master classes, revered technical papers and posters, Q&A’s, panel discussions and more. There is nowhere else you can network with representatives of Microsoft, The Walt Disney Studios, Facebook, Sony, the BBC, Google and the European Commission. Only IBC combines such invigorating debate and a definitive overview of the roadmaps that will govern the future of electronic media and entertainment. And then finally my favourite. IBC is a grand opportunity to meet friends and colleagues from the global
AV Specialist supports SACIA members in the quest for truth, honesty and the pursuit of excellence in all aspects of the audio visual profession.
broadcast industry. The show attracts more than 50 thousand people from almost every country on the planet. It’s truly a melting pot of technical and creative excellence that deserves recognition as the leading event for the global broadcast industry.
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Product
news Grass Valley unveils Trinix NXT multiviewer Recognizing that customers need to monitor more sources at a single location, Grass Valley has introduced the second-generation of its highly popular multiviewer option for the Grass Valley Trinix NXT routing switcher. The tightly integrated multiviewer incorporates their latest FPGA-based scalar technology to enable multiple views combined with graphical images to display audio, clocks, mnemonics, and tally alarms on single or multiple displays. This allows users to proactively preserve 24/7 operations, reduce maintenance costs, and troubleshoot problems before they escalate. The new TMV-2 Multiviewer option is targeted at live production, studio operations, and especially OB van operators—due to its compact size and fully featured monitoring capabilities. With its flexible 32x8 architecture, the Trinix NXT Multiviewer offers the lowest power consumption (80 watts), the highest scaling quality, and the lowest signal latency (20 milliseconds) of any multiviewer on the market today.
Axon enhances SynCross routing solution Axon will showcase a radically different router solution on its stand at this year’s IBC convention. Their new SynCross routing solution is a good example of an Axon product – small, light and smart. Developed in response to customers’ needs, SynCross is a Synapse-based modular video routing system capable of switching 3Gb/s, HD and SD SDI signals, as well as compressed domain signals such as ASI/DVB and SSI/SMPTE310. The SynCross routing system occupies from just one slot in Axon’s Synapse frame for a 8 input/ 8 output system, whilst up to five slots for a system with 40 inputs and outputs. It is a simple and intuitive task to expand a SynCross system up to 40 inputs and outputs (square and non-square), either digital, analogue video, HDMI or a mix of these options. The routing system can be controlled via Ethernet, Cortex Control Panels or by Cortex – the company’s innovative software-based monitoring and control system.
NewTek unveils TriCaster 40
NewTek has unveiled TriCaster 40—the latest entry in its TriCaster family of live production systems. TriCaster 40 creates a new entry point for broadcasters and producers who need full-resolution, HD, multi-camera live production and streaming capabilities, at a breakthrough price. The easy-to-operate, integrated, desktop system is the first on the market to offer such a comprehensive set of real-time video production capabilities for under US$ 5,000. "With the TriCaster 40, our goal is to make high quality broadcast video accessible to virtually any creative person and company who quite simply could not have fulfilled their vision before," said Dr. Andrew Cross, NewTek CTO. "The opportunities for this new breed of media producer continue to expand, as we see exponential growth in online viewing, as reported by the many leading organizations that track media consumption and viewership. In addition, the number of new outlets that are creating and delivering video content is on the rise—from cable channels to major Internet companies. TriCaster 40 not only brings people an unprecedented level of production quality, but also gives them the ability to reach their audience in a way—and at a price—never before possible."
Hitachi ships new 3G SK-HD1200 camera Reinforcing its stated aim of becoming the leading supplier of broadcast cameras worldwide, Hitachi comes to IBC 2012 with news that its new 16-bit SK-HD1200 1080P/3G production camera is shipping in Europe. The SK-HD1200 is Hitachi’s fourth generation HDTV camera that employs market leading progressive scan CCD image sensors and highly-developed and patented 16-bit digital signal processing technologies. The camera represents the company’s highest performance, multistandard HDTV studio and field production camera that satisfies regional TV systems worldwide having 50Hz or 60Hz AC line power and both analogue and digital signal outputs. 3
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Product
news Harris simplifies remote broadcast contribution
Chyron's new HyperXLP On-Air graphics system
Harris Broadcast Communications extends its value proposition for the Selenio media convergence platform at IBC 2012 with a new networking module that multiplies connection options for live signal contribution — maximizing flexibility when transmitting content between locations. The Selenio Networking Module enables broadcasters, production companies and telecom operators to use circuitswitched transport networks to transmit and receive video, audio and corporate IT data between two Selenio frames. Common applications include mobile contribution from stadiums and other remote events to a host studio, as opposed to using more expensive satellite connections; or networking multiple studio locations together to deliver live (news, sports) or pre-recorded program content. The new module offers direct connection — no bridge device required — to a variety of six common global telecom interfaces (DS-3, OC-3, OC-12, E3, STM-1 and STM-4). This reduces equipment requirements while ensuring that users can make simple and reliable connections to the most common landline interfaces worldwide – all from a single space- and power-efficient solution.
Chyron has introduced the HyperXLP, a dual-channelcapable broadcast graphics platform that sets a new standard for performance in a compact 1-RU design. Ideal for live news, sports, and OB productions, HyperXLP occupies just a quarter of the space of a standard HyperX system and consumes half as much power. High-speed solid-state storage ensures the HyperXLP's dependable performance and low profile makes it the perfect solution when rugged design and space conservation are a must. "The HyperXLP is a triple threat: blazingly fast, environmentally friendly, and ready for the demands of mobile production," said Bill Hendler, chief technology officer at Chyron. "With features including a high-speed multi-core processor, solidstate storage, and native stereoscopic 3D graphics capability, the system offers performance worthy of even the most advanced live news and sports broadcasts." HyperXLP leverages Chyron's award-winning Lyric PRO graphics creation and playback software to deliver unmatched performance for its compact size. When deployed with an optional second channel, HyperXLP can meet virtually any broadcast graphic demand.
Harmonic enhancements to Spectrum Media Server
Matrox encoding systems
During IBC Harmonic will introduce enhancements to its Spectrum media server family. The recently introduced Spectrum ChannelPort integrated channel playout device boasts new capabilities and advanced onboard features that further simplify channel playout, and the new Spectrum MediaStore 5000 highperformance disk-based shared storage system brings the benefits of serial attached SCSI (SAS) drives to Spectrum media server systems. "Harmonic's goal is to provide broadcasters and other service providers with solutions that help them produce video content more efficiently and cost-effectively, and the capabilities of both ChannelPort and MediaStore 5000 reflect this priority," said Krish Padmanabhan, senior vice president of video products at Harmonic. "Each of these Spectrum server family products addresses the challenges that our customers face in distributing a greater volume of content with fewer resources.
During IBC Matrox will showcase their Matrox MXO2 family a full range of HD/SD input/output devices for editing, H.264 encoding, and streaming workflows. These affordably priced units allow users to get the most from industry-leading applications, including Adobe Creative Suite 5.5 Production Premium, Apple Final Cut Studio and Final Cut Pro X, and the new Avid Media Composer 6. Matrox MXO2 units are also the only I/O solutions on the market that enable lightning-fast creation of H.264 files for Bluray, the web, and mobile devices. In addition, Matrox MXO2 devices can be used to stream from any camera, anywhere, making them ideal for internet broadcasts of live events such as news, sports, concerts, religious services, and corporate meetings. They work with Mac and PC laptops and desktop systems — in the studio, on the set, in the field, and in OB vans. 4
Introducing HyperDeck Shuttle, the perfect uncompressed SSD recorder for SDI and HDMI Now you can get incredible quality uncompressed SDI and HDMI video capture and playback using removable solid state disks! HyperDeck Shuttle is the perfect quality broadcast deck you can hold in your hand. HyperDeck Shuttle lets you bypass camera compression for the highest quality on set recording, and is perfect for digital signage or instant replay and program recording with live production switchers. Video is recorded to QuickTime™ files, so you can mount and edit directly from the SSD eliminating time wasting file copying!
Solid State Disk (SSD) Recording Simply plug in a fast 2.5” solid state disk into HyperDeck Shuttle and start recording! SSD’s are used in desktop and laptop computers so prices are constantly falling while sizes are getting bigger! Plug the SSD into your computer and the disk will mount right on your computer’s desktop! Files are stored in standard QuickTime™ 10 bit format so you can use the media in Mac™ and Windows™ video software! Use Cameras, Switchers and Monitors
Absolute Perfect Quality HyperDeck Shuttle lets you bypass all video camera compression for perfect uncompressed 10-bit SD/HD video. Get deep color dynamic range for color correction and perfectly clean keying. Only uncompressed gives you a mathematically perfect “clone” recording between capture and playback. Only uncompressed lets you trust your recording and there is absolutely no higher quality possible!
With SDI and HDMI inputs and outputs, HyperDeck Shuttle works with virtually every camera, switcher or monitor! Plug into televisions or video projectors for instant on set preview or get exciting live action replay with ATEM production switchers. Even use it for digital signage. Just press play twice for loop playback! Imagine using pristine uncompressed recording on your next live event!
Record and Play Back Anywhere! HyperDeck Shuttle is machined out of a solid block of aircraft-grade aluminum for incredible strength! Take your HyperDeck Shuttle into the field, on set and to live events. With an internal battery, just recharge and go! Only HyperDeck Shuttle gives you recording and playback in a compact solution that fits in your hand!
HyperDeck Shuttle
345
US$
Learn more today at www.blackmagic-design.com/hyperdeckshuttle
RAI Amsterdam Conference 6-11 September : Exhibition 7-11 September RAI Amsterdam RAI Amsterdam Conference 6-11 September : Exhibition 7-11 September Conference 6-11 September : Exhibition 7-11 September
IBC2012 IBC2012 Discover More Discover More Conference
Leading the electronic media and entertainment agenda through innovation and debate, the IBC Conference is attended by the most influential thinkers from the leading companies in the world. It is split into four carefully selected streams – Advances in Technology, Content Creation and Innovation, The Business of Broadcasting, and Added Value – ensuring that all the fields contributing to the future of the industry are represented.
Hot topics being discussed this year include: • Broadcast Delivery • Cinema • Cloud • Connected TV • Social Media IBC is at the cutting-edge of new in the Sport • technology The conference consistselectronic of: Transmedia It couples • industry. rapidly evolving media • 6 day, 4 stream conference programme • Workflow comprehensive exhibition covering all facets of IBC is at cutting-edge oflenew technology in the • a the 300+ world class high profi speakers over 60 conference sessions today’s industry with a highly respected peer reviewed rapidly•evolving electronic media industry. It couples
conference that helps shape the way the a comprehensive exhibition covering all facets ofindustry more information please visit: www.ibc.org/conference will develop future. today’sFor industry withinathe highly respected peer reviewed conference that helps shape the way the industry Take advantage of a variety of extra special features including: will develop in the future.
Exhibition
• IBC Production Village • Future Zone Take advantage of a variety of extra special features including: presenting the latest camera showcasing the latest developments IBC welcomes over 50,000 attendees from over 160 technology in a purpose built in broadcast technology countries & 1,300+ key international technology suppliers • IBC Production Village • Future Zone environment • IBC Connected World showcasing theyear. latest developments presenting thecan latest take cameraadvantage of a each In addition, attendees including demonstration area • IBC Awards Ceremony technology in a purpose built in broadcast technology variety of extra special features including: acknowledges those who have made in Hall 14 environment • IBC Connected World Future Zone IBC Production a real contribution Village to the industry •demonstration IBC Big Screen the latest includingshowcasing area developments • IBCinAwards Ceremony presenting the latest camera hosted on Sunday 9 September broadcast technology providing the perfect platform acknowledges technology in a purpose those who have madebuilt in Hall 14 environment for manufacturer demonstrations a real contribution to the industry • IBC BigIBC Screen Connected World and the Saturday Night Movie hosted on Sunday 9 September providing the perfect platform area in Hall 14 including demonstration IBC Awards Ceremony acknowledges those who have made for manufacturer demonstrations IBC Big Screen a real contribution to the industry and the Saturday Night Movie providing the perfect platform hosted on Sunday 9 September for manufacturer demonstrations and the Saturday Night Movie
For more information please visit: www.ibc.org/exhibition
www.ibc.org IBC Fifth Fifth Floor FloorInternational InternationalPress PressCentre Centre76 76Shoe ShoeLane LaneLondon LondonEC4A EC4A3JB 3JB UK UK IBC
T +44 + 44 (0) (0)20 20 7832 7832 4100 FF+44 T +44(0) (0)20 207832 78324130 4130E info@ibc.org E info@ibc.org www.ibc.org
at r w te o s n i ter g/reg s i r g Re ibc.o w. w w
IBC Fifth Floor International Press Centre 76 Shoe Lane London EC4A 3JB UK T +44 (0) 20 7832 4100 F +44 (0) 20 7832 4130 E info@ibc.org ConfExhib.indd 1
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Product
news Fast turn-around for live sports, news and entertainment production At this year’s IBC, EVS will help the broadcast industry prepare for the future with its new production systems and solutions. From meeting the needs of newsroom operations, shaping the future of sports broadcasting and helping to turn around TV productions, EVS’ solutions are designed to boost performance through flexibility, speed of delivery, and reliability. The future of sports, news and TV broadcasting requires even more customisation, with faster production facilities developed to help the industry deliver dynamic content in even tighter deadlines. EVS will unveil its new Breaking News toolset, which relies on EVS’ ingest and playout servers for ultimate speed and reliability of newsroom operations. The infrastructure is borne out of years of live production workflow expertise, and is the first and only ingest and playout infrastructure on the market that can be used across production areas from news to sports, entertainment and other programs.
New Fujinon lens for HD sport Fujifilm Europe will use the IBC Show in Amsterdam to introduce an all new Long focal length HD Field for the first time in Europe; the XA77x9.5BESM! The new lens is perfectly suited for mobile vans, in stadiums, for sporting events and large arenas, where a HD tele-photo lens would be beneficial in capturing detail and close up images from far distances. It features their patented OS TECH image stabilisation; the unique advanced diagnostic FIND System (Focused Intelligent Network Diagnosis) for quick service checks after long shootings; dustproof and antifogging technology; 16-bit optical encoding output for high positioning accuracy in virtual environments; an advanced back focus system allowing very close macro shootings and also fading in and out for more creativity. All this comes at a very attractive price point.
Smart Production Tools for Any Workflow and Any Budget
Seven New Tripods at IBC2012
During this year’s IBC event Sachtler will present a new fluid head, as well as seven new tripods. The new 75mm fluid head broadens the selection for professional DSLR filmmakers and videographers with camera set-ups weighing up to six kilograms (13 lbs.). It will be available with three different carbon-fiber tripods – one with a telescopic tripod, one with a mid-level spreader and one with a ground-spreader.
Additionally, four new solid professional tripods will soon broaden the FSB family. This means the tried-and-tested Sachtler clamping used on 100mm and 150mm tripods for an especially quick set-up, will also be available for the first time in the 75mm range. Apart from the presentation of new products, Sachtler will showcase its dependable camera support classics such as the Cine 7+7 HD and Cine 30 HD fluid heads as well as the beloved EB/EFP Video 18 S1 and Video 20 S1 fluid heads. In addition, the brand will present new features of the artemis Cine HD Pro modular camera stabilizer system, which, for example, uses HiCap cabling and Hot Swap technology to provide an uninterrupted power supply when changing batteries.
Atomos, the creator of award-winning field recorders Ninja-2 and Samurai, as well as the small, but perfectly formed, Connect converters, will be showing their smart production tools working with an impressive array of leading DSLRs, camcorders and cinematic cameras at this year’s IBC show. Over the past year, Atomos has been working closely with camera manufacturers to implement features that will be welcomed by production professionals
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working to a tight budget. "Camera manufacturers have been very receptive to our suggestions and extremely co-operative", said Jeromy Young, CEO and Founder of Atomos. "For example, we have been working with Canon to implement HDMI-based timecode and start/stop triggering, and Nikon's clean output via HDMI makes the Ninja-2 by the far the most productive and affordable sensor-to-timeline recording and monitoring solution available. We're very proud to be able to showcase these solutions at IBC". Visitors to the annual convention in Amsterdam will be able to get hands-on with Ninja-2s and Samurais working with the latest D800 and D4 DSLRs from Nikon, Sony FS100, FS700 and F3 camcorders, Canon C300 and XF305, JVC 750 and the RED Epic.
Adler Power Solutions
The Basic APS 5way and 10way “power-duct” in the BS 546 South African style receptacle is now approved by the SABS and meets all quality and performance standards.
The APS Concept PDU was specially designed to meet the increasing demands of various IT equipment fitted inside server racks today. The Concept PDU comes in various multisocket vertical configurations which is fully customised to meet specific client requirements.
COMMITTED TO SERVICE EXCELLENCE
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9072/14370 Head Office, Johannesburg Tel: +27 (0) 11 630 1000|E-mail: info@fe.co.za Branches Cape Town|Durban|Bloemfontein|Port Elizabeth
www.falconelectronics.co.za APS_AV Specialist_June/July 2012
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Product
news Sony launch PMW-200 camera Sony has introduced their new PMW-200 video camera to the Middle East and African market. The PMW200 is a light and compact 1080p video camera and another addition to the vast array of XDCAM professional camcorders belonging to the electronic giant. The PMW200 features three ?-inch Exmor CMOS sensors with full HD 4:2:2 50Mbps recording, a 3.5-inch articulating WVGA LCD monitor and the capability of recording to SxS media. With ?-inch sensors enabling the camcorder to perform exceptionally even within challenging lighting conditions the PMW-200 inherit the operational versatility of the PMW-EX1R. The PMW-200 comes with a Slow & Quick function that enables it to capture at 1fps to 60fps in 720p mode and 1fps to 30fps in 1080p mode while providing the user with a lot of versatility and creative flexibility. The PMW-200 is designed to record on SxS cards but it also supports SD cards, memory sticks and Sony’s new XQD cards via adapters.
Avid takes your newsroom on the road At IBC 2012 Avid will demonstrate the largest range of integrated media production technology the company has ever presented at the event. Avid is featuring new and upgraded solutions for advanced asset-based workflows spanning distributed production, multi-platform distribution, server and storage, and video editing/audio mixing solutions, demonstrating how customers in news, sports, TV, and postproduction can make the most of their media, achieve their creative vision and improve their productivity. A show highlight includes the European debut of Avid’s cloud-based, real-time, remote editing solution, Interplay Sphere. Sphere allows you to take your newsroom anywhere by giving you the freedom to acquire, access, edit, and finish content from whatever geography or time zone you’re working in. Now, everyone can work in a completely fluid, collaborative environment.
JVC unveils ProHD portable monitor series
Eco-friendly LED lighting
United Broadcast & Media Solutions has introduced the Nila SL space light to the Middle East & Africa. Nila is the industry leader in environmentally sustainable, high-brightness LED fixtures durable enough to meet the needs of the harshest production situations. In addition to other industry leading products like the Nila BOXER and Nila JNH, the Nila SL produces a higher light output of up to 6K
at a power consumption of only 500W. The Nila SL’s versatility is arguably the best rated among lighting instrument available today. Being both powerful enough to illuminate subjects up to 400’ away and while still being able to provide a great and up-close soft light source. Nilas holographic lenses allow the user to specify a precisely angled beam that can help minimize the need for diffusion material, flags and barn doors. The lenses enable users to dial in a perfect soft box look without the actual box. The SL can also be rigged as a space light and is available in a kit that includes its own diffusion bag and rigging hardware.
JVC Professional has announced the DT-X Series of portable ProHD LCD monitors. Ideal for field and studio applications, the new seven-inch AC/DC monitors offer 1024x600 resolution with a 160-degree viewing angle and can display 576i, 576p, 720p, 1080i, and 1080p video signals at a variety of frame rates. There are three models in the DT-X Series, with scaled I/O options and features for specific needs. The basic DTX71C model offers one HDMI and one composite video 9
input, while the DT-X71H adds two HD/SD-SDI inputs and an HD/SD-SDI loop through output. The DT-X71F includes an additional HD/SD-SDI loop through output and one HDMI converted to SDI output. All three models include stereo audio input. Other features include an adjustable 16:9/4:3 display, dual three-colour tally lights, underscan and overscan, image flip, customer editable video title, Canon DSLR scale zoom-in, and safe mark display. The DT-X71F, the most featurerich model in the series, also includes a waveform, vector scope, RGB histogram, red/blue peaking focus assist, zebra, false colour, blue only, internal colour bars, image rotation and 16channel SDI (two-channel HDMI) audio meter.
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Everything I know I learned from live Events One of the first things actors have to learn (aside from their lines) is what to do when another actor misses a cue. The answer is improvise, but actors have to make improvisational choices within the context of the scene and with a complete understanding of what is supposed to happen next. Good actors can rebuild a broken scene by recasting the lines of other characters as their own to keep all the players on track. Great actors can do this without the audience and often the crew ever realizing what just happened. Businesses have to master this kind of improvisation in order to be consistently successful. .
T
here are three critical success factors that determine whether an organization has the capacity for change:
longer work, then the effective process owner will know how to get it changed. "We make a plan so we can change it."
"The only people who know where the edge is are the ones that have been over it." A colleague said this once to me many years ago, and I have never forgotten its significance. At the time we may have been assessing an employee or freelancer, and the context would have indicated that the individual in question lacked the experience to move at the pace we needed. Live Events run along a razor's edge of deadlines, near
misses, and endless surprises. Planning is mission critical, but as a Captain Barbossa says in Pirates of the Caribbean – the Curse of the Black Pearl, "the code is more what you'd call guidelines than actual rules." It is important to have people in charge of processes that are as good at bending the rules as they are at following them. And when the rules no 10
My clients will recognize this as one of my favourite sayings. It comes out in meetings when a team member expresses frustration over the perceived futility of planning discussions. "It's all gonna change anyway!" The purpose of most planning meetings is to make the process more transparent. If all the players understand the reasoning and factors involved in creating the original plan, they will be better prepared to improvise when the time comes. And
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the time will come. Many companies eschew planning as a waste of time because circumstances change so quickly. Instead these companies operate in reaction mode, which often fails because it becomes too easy to lose track of the final outcome. The Plan is what keeps us pointed towards the goal. "Start with facts, then at least we know something." If you don't know where to start, gather some data. Facts are your friends. You may not agree with the facts, because they often represent limitations. But, knowing what you cannot change will simplify the discussion of what you will change. Early in my career I was a flyman in a theatre and the road company rigger didn't measure the grid height correctly. As a result all the chain hoists trimmed at the wrong height making it impossible to fly the set pieces out of view. The Stage Manager was very philosophical about it. "Well,� he said, “we can lower the stage or raise the roof. However, we can't do either in time. How about we reset the pick points correctly?" He then directed the scenic crew to clear the stage and take an early coffee break while we worked overhead. Although his comments were tongue in cheek, his methodology was intended to teach his panicky department head how to handle the situation. The Stage Manager gathered the relevant data, kept his eyes on the goal, and chose the next logical thing that needed to happen to accommodate the new
plan. If there had been no plan or order for loading in the show, he wouldn't have known which steps would be affected by the miscalculated rigging points. Teaching a company how to be proactive instead of reactive is all about institutionalizing process change. Many leaders are disappointed to learn that becoming proactive isn't about establishing hard and fast rules that you cannot deviate from. Proactive firms research, plan, and adjust over and over again. It looks something like this: 1.
2. 3.
4.
5.
6.
7.
8.
Establish who owns the process; they have to be involved in change. Recognize that many steps are dependent upon an earlier step. Recognize the natural checkpoints in the process when several substeps come together. When something goes wrong, reset to the last checkpoint and choose a new path. The first step in the new process is the one that allows the dependent steps to occur in the right order. Let all the other process owners know about the change so they can adjust accordingly. Ensure that those adjustments will flow properly so everyone can reach the intended goal. If not, return to step 1. Repeat.
Something Integrators can learn something from Rental-Stagers about project management (ok, some stagers need to learn this too) is that the key to successful planning is to
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build flexibility into processes. Allow extra time, but don't use it without knowingly changing the plan. Provide additional labour to absorb some of the time of INEVITABLE changes. Use the natural checkpoints in the process wisely. Know that if you are behind on schedule that catching up will require using additional resources be they personnel, time, or reducing the scope. If you miss two checkpoints in a row, then the project is out of control and more drastic measures are needed.Business owners can apply the same type of thinking to help the company reach its goals. Some part of management's time needs to be spent on the company in lieu of processing customer-driven projects. We call this working "on" the business instead of "in" the business.
Tom Stimson has thrived for over twenty-five years in the information communications technology industry. As a Consultant, Tom helps companies define their goals and then design a plan that will take them there.
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Uganda Commission builds monitoring operations The Uganda Communications Commission (UCC) has installed Observer digital video monitoring and logging systems to enable monitoring for 40 radio stations and 10 television stations in Kampala.
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he Volicon systems, delivered and installed by systems integrator Visual Engineering Services, give the commission a scalable platform for monitoring and regulating the growing number of broadcast channels across the capital city and Uganda as a whole. "Volicon is the world leader in logging and monitoring, and its solutions come with superb local support from Visual Engineering Service, so the Observer was the logical choice for our operations," said Godfrey Mutabazi, executive director of Uganda Communications Commission. "The Observer makes it convenient for our staff to recall and review recorded content, whether from within our facilities or when on the road. As we extend our monitoring activities beyond Kampala, the simple expansion of our Volicon installation will facilitate monitoring of more radio and television channels across a broader geographic area."
Promotes development UCC regulates and promotes development within Uganda's rapidly growing and evolving communications industry. As part of its mission to facilitate growth of communications services for sustainable development, UCC has installed new Observer systems at its Kampala facility. The Volicon Observer system captures, streams, and stores 90 days of content, offering simultaneous users 24/7 access to live and recorded video from their desktop computers or smart devices. An intuitive, streamlined user interface for both Mac and PC platforms allows users to access and review video with ease, whether working locally or remotely. With the ability to play, pause, and search recorded content using either a desktop or mobile device, UCC staff can quickly ensure that broadcasts meet regulations governing technical aspects, as well as advertising and content. The Observer's content
About the Uganda Communications Commission
Godfrey Mutabazi, executive director of the Uganda Communications Commission
export module allows users to export clip material to DVD.
Monitoring capacity UCC is using Volicon's Observer scheduling module to extend its existing monitoring capacity strategically across the country's increasing number of broadcast channels. This approach ensures that UCC will be able to build out its Observer platform systematically, even as it takes on monitoring of a rising channel count. Volicon's patented Virtual Media Network (VMN) technology provides a unique architecture that allows for efficient expansion and scalability from small to large deployments, seamless and efficient streaming throughout the organization, and optimized video logging and monitoring.
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The UCC was established to implement the provisions of The Communications Act Cap 106 Laws of Uganda with a principal goal of developing a modern communications sub-sector and Infrastructure in Uganda, in conformity with the operationalization of the Telecommunications Policy. The commission aims to promote sustainable national development through availability and access to reliable, cost effective, and affordable communications services largely delivered through an enabled private sector. UCC recognizes that successful realization of its vision entails effective coordination and prudent fostering of the interests of several stakeholders including Government, investors, consumers and the general public. The Mission of UCC is: “to facilitate sustainable development of communication services that are universally accessible through effective regulation. Underlying the realization of this Mission is the implementation of the Rural Communication Development Policy aimed at providing access to basic communication services, bringing Public-Private Partnerships on board in selected areas especially in the establishment of a National Backbone Infrastructure (NBI), increased consumer empowerment and ICT awareness, promoting and relying on competitive pressure as well as regulatory and fiscal incentives to ensure affordability and availability of services.
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Qatar National Convention Centre supports real-time video streaming The Qatar National Convention Centre (QNCC) in Doha has selected Visionary Solutions' AVN220 and AVN443HD encoders to support real-time streaming of SD and HD video and audio signals cost-effectively during live events and conferences.
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everaging the exceptional performance, high-quality H.264 encoding, low up-front cost, and energy-saving capabilities of the AVN encoders, the Qatar National Conference Centre is able to offer innovative AV services within one of world's first public venues built to the U.S. Green Building Council's Leadership in Energy and Environment Design (LEED) Gold Certification standard.
Steamless integration QNCC selected Svetlost Teatar, a Moscow-based AV systems designer and integrator with experience connecting theatre and related technologies, to facilitate the installation. Working with Svetlost Teatar, QNCC engineers seamlessly integrated the AVN encoding systems into the facility's IP network, without the need of any additional infrastructure for AV transport, thus reducing operational expenses. Both the AVN220 and AVN443HD encoding solutions stream SD and HD video and audio over a local area network that runs throughout the entire complex to support regional and international conventions, exhibitions, gala events, concerts, theatrical productions, and banquets hosted at the QNCC.
Perfect choice "Visionary Solutions' AVN encoding solution was the perfect choice for the live video streaming needs at QNCC, thanks to its ultradense design and sophisticated H.264 compression technology, which reduce costs as well as deliver a superiorquality video stream in real time," said Dejan Ljubisavljevic, senior R&D manager at Svetlost Teatar. "The new high-quality A/V technological infrastructure, powered by Visionary Solutions' encoding, has already supported more than 130 world-class events in just seven short months." The QNCC is utilizing the AVN220
encoders to compress SD video into MPEG-2 real-time streams. In addition, AVN443HD encoders deliver a fullframe rate SD or HD IP video stream using standard H.264 hardware compression and optimized transmission technology. Each encoder consumes less than 5 watts of power and efficiently dissipates heat, without sacrificing performance or video quality, making them the ideal choice for QNCC's green-technology facility.
Cutting-edge technology "We're proud to partner with the Qatar National Convention Centre and Visionary Solutions on this cuttingedge technology facility," said Dmitrovic Milos, system integrator at Svetlost Teatar. "Visionary Solutions' encoding systems were extremely easy to integrate within the QNCC's existing IP network, as well as with a variety of external devices for a flawless installation." The AVN220 and AVN443HD are housed in the MPP1700 Media Processing platform. The MPP1700 provides a high-density rack-mount chassis with an optional dual-redundant power supply. It is capable of holding up to 17 single slot 13
encoder blades, or a combination of dual- and single-slot blades. "The Qatar National Convention Centre sets the standard for technological innovation and efficiency," said Mike Piper, vice president of marketing at Visionary Solutions. "We understand the challenges that today's A/V operators face in delivering excellent streaming video quality while simultaneously decreasing operational costs. The AVN family of encoders is designed to consume far less energy than typical encoding solutions, in addition to delivering an unmatched priceperformance ratio and superior video quality."
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AV remand system introduced to SA courtrooms Video communication is increasingly common throughout legal systems worldwide. It spans facilities and applications, including video arraignment from jail, virtual visitation in prisons, and remote testimony in courtrooms and judges’ chambers.
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ut the movement toward using video to solve thorny problems in the legal system, such as obtaining testimony from inmates several jurisdictions away, has its hurdles. Unlike telemedicine or distance learning, applications of video communication that have become increasingly easy to implement in healthcare and education markets, deploying video in courts and prisons, especially in existing facilities, can actually be difficult. As a result, some such implementations have been scuttled.
No secure place in jail “There was no secure place in jail where you could marshal people and get them in front of a camera," says Jay Farbstein, owner of Jay Farbstein & Associates, a US-based architectural firm that specializes in law-enforcement facilities. "Or if there was such a location, it
implementation of video,” Farbstein says. “There’s some speculation about why. It has to do with the judges’ confidence in their ability to evaluate the defendants. We have a lot to learn about how these systems work and the impact they have.”
Conclusive research was inconvenient for the defence counsel, who preferably would want to be there in person. There was a whole family of facility-related issues that caused it not to work.” When it does work, video can have a profound effect on the legal system. Some research suggests that judges rule differently when the accused appears by video rather than in person. For example, one study compared rates of bail for certain offenses before and after implementing video. “They found that the bail amounts jumped substantially after 14
To be fair, there isn’t much conclusive research about how AV affects legal proceedings. But people agree, poor AV systems can have an adverse effect. And depending on the application, good AV systems must accurately reflect inperson experiences or they, too, can have an adverse effect — which would make them poor systems “Judges want to see the body, the movement, the mannerisms,” says Dickson Stewart, principal consultant at Electronic Interiors. “If you look back to the old witness box, it was open in front. They wanted to see the defendant twitch.”
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That’s because body language is important in law enforcement. But it can be tough for judges and others, despite the benefits of video communication, to get a read on someone when there are flaws in the AV system, such as poor lighting or equipment a layperson can’t operate. And more so than in any other type of building, AV systems must be thoughtfully integrated into a court house or detention facility. Although it’s shown growing interest in using video, the legal system lags behind, for instance, higher education. Therefore AV consultants and integrators, architects of courts and prisons, and legal professionals must collaborate extensively if they’re to realize the benefits of AV and video communication.
Plan, Plan, Plan Security and cost savings are two major reasons that many jails and courthouses are implementing video arraignment systems. In South Africa, a particular focus revolves around the state of prisons and the condition of holding awaiting trial prisoners. The poor condition of South African prisons felt the glare of international spotlight recently when Clare Montgomery, counsel of British citizen Shrien Dewani, who is accused of murdering his wife while on honeymoon in Cape Town, argued in preparation for an application for his extradition before a London court. She stated that one of the challenges to the extradition would “centre on prison conditions in South Africa” intimating that should he be held in detention while awaiting trial in the country, his human rights would be violated. This is not a new complaint about prison conditions in South Africa and has been repeatedly highlighted by the various human rights organisations over the years.
Awaiting trial detainees Awaiting trial detainees often have to wait in prison before appearing before a court of law to face charges. In a briefing to the Portfolio Committee on Correctional Services, the Justice Crime Prevention and Security (JCPS) cluster, pointed out that as of 12 October 2010 there were a total of 46 432 persons being held in detention while awaiting trial. Of this number 2 080 had been in prison for more than two years with the vast majority of these (1 516) having been detained for more than three years. Worryingly, since 2009 there has been a gradual increase in the number of people awaiting trial for more than two years in South African prisons. Many detainees have also been granted
bail and could be living at home but because they are too poor to afford the bail amount, remain behind bars. Fortunately, it appears that the long held concerns around the conditions of those awaiting trial finally started to make it onto government’s radar. Most notable was the approval of the “White Paper on Remand Detention” by the cabinet in October 2010. The White Paper was developed in consultation with all other government departments who ‘accommodate’ persons awaiting trial, and proposes the establishment of a specific ‘Remand Detention Branch’. This structure will be used for ‘coordinating the provision of services in relation to remand detainees in South Africa’ and includes a 7-point plan that makes significant use of audio and video conferencing technology.
The trial was held behind closed doors to protect the youth’s identity, but the Dept. of Correctional Services was obliged to record the event and provide video footage to media outlets who have followed the proceedings via closed-circuit television, with cameras set up to prevent the boys identity. Despite this care, Judge John Horn ruled most evidence against the teenager inadmissible because police had failed to follow South Africa's child protection law in handling the case.
Expertise in AV design What AV professionals may find when they start talking to the people who work in and build courts and prisons is that they’re less familiar with the
Audio Video Remand system Minister Jeffrey Radebe launched the Audio Video Remand (AVR) system in Mitchells Plain, Cape Town in June 2011. “80% of Awaiting Trial Detainees transported to courts are for the mere purpose of postponement,” explains Sonwabo Mbananga from the Dept. of Correctional Services. “The chain duty of signing them out from correctional centres, their transportation to Courts and back to correctional centres, is not only time consuming and thereby delay court hearings due to late arrivals, but also take up many of the human resources which could optimally be used otherwise. Section 159 of the Criminal Procedure Act 51 was amended to enable this innovative solution.” An early example of this initiative was demonstrated in the trial of Patrick Ndlovu, a 15-year old youth accused of murdering Eugene Terre’Blanche, former leader of the Afrikaner Weerstands Beweging (AWB). 15
The poor condition of South African prisons felt the glare of international spotlight recently when Clare Montgomery, counsel of British citizen Shrien Dewani, who is accused of murdering his wife while on honeymoon in Cape Town, argued in preparation for an application for his extradition before a London court. She stated that one of the challenges to the extradition would “centre on prison conditions in South Africa” intimating that should he be held in detention while awaiting trial in the country, his human rights would be violated.
The $75 billion audiovisual industry provides critical support to large corporations, small businesses, retail outlets, education and healthcare institutions, entertainment venues, the government and more. AV helps us communicate better, protects critical infrastructure, assists with life-saving diagnoses, educates students around the world and keeps society informed and entertained. To learn more about the audio visual industry in Southern Africa visit www.sacia.org.za
www.sacia.org.za
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technology and its applications than people in other markets who’ve been exposed to modern AV systems longer. “I wish I had a nickel for each time a facility designer said mid-project, ‘I thought all of that stuff was wireless now,’” says Dickson Stewart. In some cases, planning ahead can be a hard sell. One example is urging the client to put in raceways now to support an application that the architect or AV integrator knows from experience will be added later. “It is sometimes difficult to have end users invest in infrastructure that may not be used for years,” Stewart says. “I cringe every time the term ‘abandoned conduit’ is used when it has actually been provided for future technologies that were either unknown or unaffordable at the time. When a designer hears an owner claim they will never need to add new technologies, red flags should go up.” One tip for planning ahead is to identify all of the legal services that involve face-to-face contact. Then look for ways that audio and video could be used instead to achieve the client’s goals, such as reducing costs and increasing security. Religious services, education and drug counselling are three examples of services that typically are provided in person today but not necessarily tomorrow. “It’s about envisioning what might be possible and ensuring that we have power and conduit in place,” says Zakhile Nkwanyana from the Dept. of Justice. “It’s also about envisioning what stands in the way of a successful AV design that may span a slew of facilities that are at different stages of technology adoption. Many courts and prisons have started down the
According to Justice Minister Jeff Radebe, South Africa has developed a 7point plan that makes use of audio and video technology to accomodate persons awaiting trial. The Audio Video Remand (AVR) system was launched in Mitchells Plain, Cape Town during June 2011.
The trial of Patrick Ndlovu, a 15-year old youth accused of murdering Eugene Terre’Blanche, former leader of the Afrikaner Weerstands Beweging (AWB), was held behind closed doors to protect the youth’s identity. The Dept. of Correctional Services was obliged to record the event and provide video footage to media outlets who had followed the proceedings via closedcircuit television, with cameras set up to prevent the boys identity being disclosed until the trial had been concluded.
path of video communication with one-off systems. Learning what those are is crucial. It’s one thing to propose installing a system that supports remote video testimony; it’s another to deliver a system that’s interoperable with the myriad protocols and end points that might span the various jurisdictions involved.”
Flexibility amid Rigidity As in the healthcare market, courts, prisons, and related facilities aren’t easily or inexpensively modified once they’re built. Plus there are always safety considerations that dictate every aspect of a building’s architectural and AV design. “It’s very difficult to provide raceways and wiring later on,” says Nkwanyana. “Courtrooms have very high levels of finish, which is expensive, and detention /correction has very hard construction.” Even so, it’s sometimes possible to design in flexibility for the future. “We know that the judge’s bench and the courtroom deputy’s bench won’t be moving, but the attorney tables may need to move at some future date,” says independent AV consultant Gideon Taljaard. “We can interchange those [panels] like a puzzle piece and move the furniture around, with the access hatch coming up underneath under wherever the configuration is. We can configure the courtrooms at a future date any way we want with these moveable tiles.” “Architects are kind of stuck in the middle with all of these video issues,” says Joe Bocchiaro, InfoComm Vice President of Standards and Industry Innovations. “You think that you have video arraignment and I think that I have it. But when we go to call each other, we can’t. 17
The architects have gotten frustrated by this.” Part of the frustration comes from encryption and other security features that law enforcement applications require. “Especially in the government space, the last few years, there have been a lot of proprietary systems, and a lot of that had to do with encryption,” Bocchiaro says. “There were proprietary systems because there weren’t good commercial encryption systems. Now there are.” To help architects identify those and other AVrelated issues so that they don’t become expensive, embarrassing problems later on, InfoComm has begun working with the American Institute of Architects (AIA) to develop AV guides and other information for designing courts, correctional facilities, and more. “We’re about to launch a task force that will help the AIA investigate options and come up with some best practices for the use of video for judicial purposes,” Bocchiaro says. “We expect to expose issues that have broad effects on all audio-visual systems by using judicial video as a case study. Architectural, technological, logistical and human issues are all on the table. AV encompasses all of them.” As this initiative evolves, SACIA will work closely with InfoComm and the South African institute of Architects to ensure that similar standards are applied in South Africa. Such outreach should lead to better-integrated AV systems that deliver more precisely what courts (and other clients) actually want.
Eugène Terre'Blanche founded the Afrikaner Weerstandsbeweging (AWB) during South Africa’s apartheid era. During the 1980s and early 1990s, he became known for threatening civil war to maintain white rule in South Africa. After the country's transition to postapartheid democracy, he revised his stances and urged his followers to push for independence in an independent Afrikaner homeland, which he frequently referred to as a "Boerevolkstaat". Terre'Blanche led the organisation until his death in 2010 when he was hacked and beaten to death on his farm, allegedly over a wage dispute. Terre'Blanche's supporters have said that the murder is part of a larger pattern of anti-white "farm murders" in South Africa
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Planet RadioTV combines the best of radio and TV Planet Image Productions have launched Planet RadioTV (PRTV), Africa’s first RadioTV offering, based in Johannesburg.
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RTV is an online radio and television service that is broadcasted live on television, radio and online streaming, which means you can constantly stay connected through a mobile device. Targeting 18 to 40 year old listeners, the station focuses on African music with its broadcast offering split between 80% African music and 20% international music. “At PRTV we intend to change the way consumers view, listen and interact with television, radio and Internet mediums. It is an exciting platform that synchronises three mediums providing outstanding opportunities for consumers and advertisers alike,” says Mabel Mabaso, chief operations officer and director at Planet Image Productions. RadioTV is completely automated and relies on unique audio switcher software, which executes camera cuts automatically. The software identifies the radio talent’s voice and determines which camera should be on air along with the relevant graphics. Camera switching does not require human intervention and the existing workflow is maintained without any additional costs.
Planet Radio was launched in June 2011 and the concept so well received that by December 2011 the station had over 30 thousand listeners. “The combination of radio and television demonstrates that South Africa is at the forefront of digital media,” says Mabel Mabaso, director at Planet Image Productions.
become integrated into the mediums of PRTV. Planet Radio was established in June 2011 and the concept was so well received that by December 2011
Audience angagement Additionally, RadioTV offers a complete set of 3D graphics templates including supers, titles, logos, promos and other elements and support the playback of full frame videos. It supports multi-camera production in both HD and SD resolution, providing the rich quality of TV broadcasting. It also provides genlocked clean cuts and high quality video play out. Listeners and viewers are also able to interact directly with the station through Skype and could then be seen live on the channel while connected. This opens up new ways for the public to connect with the rest of the audience and in this way,
PRTV is an exciting platform that synchronises three mediums providing outstanding opportunities for consumers and advertisers alike,” says Mabel Mabaso, chief operations officer and director at Planet Image Productions.
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the station had over 30 thousand listeners. A number of listeners requested to see the DJ’s in action on TV and the PRTV concept was born. “The launch proves to the world that Africa is a continent of creativity, innovation and that we are proud to produce and consume our own African talent by telling our stories to the world. We are on the forefront of digital media,” concludes Mabaso.
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Qatar TV builds for the future with Grass Valley The Qatari Television Support and Development Committee (TVSDC) has selected Grass Valley for a major modernisation project for Qatar TV. Grass Valley will be providing a complete master control room solution for the new Broadcast Centre in Doha.
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he design for Qatar TV's new Broadcast Centre focuses on adaptive and flexible workflows, while being future-proofed for emerging technologies, such as 3 Gb/s 1080p. This ensures that Qatar TV will be able to serve its viewers for years to come, without fear of technical obsolescence. Grass Valley is providing the systems integration, installation, and commissioning for this multi-million dollar project. The experience and knowledge of Grass Valley's best-inclass system architects are vital in ensuring that Qatar TV achieves its stringent deadlines.“This project is core to the development of Qatar TV, and we needed a technical partner with a track record of proven technology,” said Samer Younes, Consultant Engineer of Qatari TVSDC. “We want to build a world-class playout centre that is flexible and supports evolving requirements, uses the latest service orientated architectures, and is enabled for future technical growth in order to provide our audience with continuous, highquality service."
continuing service agreement. “Grass Valley is a world-class company with vast experience in delivering this type of project in a timely and cost effective manner, which is why we selected Grass Valley as our trusted provider on this modernization project,” said Younes.
Maximum efficiency
“We have great experience in completing these project and understand their ambitions of Qatar TV,” says Alan Wright from Grass Valley EMEA office.
Turnkey development This initiative calls for the complete turnkey development and delivery of the new broadcasting centre. Grass Valley system architects scoped the requirements and designed the complete system, with support from a third-party system integrator. The project also includes training Qatar TV staff on the new technologies and workflows, and a
For maximum efficiency, key technologies such as Grass Valley’s Trinix NXT router with integrated multiviewers is being used alongside the Maestro master control system, offering an exceptional combination of integrated features, expandability, and control options. “Qatar TV required a state-of-theart broadcasting centre to match its ambitions to serve its audience with high-quality service,” said Alan Wright, Senior Vice President, Europe, Middle East, and Africa for Grass Valley. “We have great experience in completing this sort of project, and we understood their innovative ambitions for the future. Qatar TV’s new home will be a showcase for modern broadcast workflows.”
Share ideas on LinkedIn Join the SACIA LinkedIn group and share the online discussion about products and issues impacting the future of the professional AV industry in Southern Africa.
To find us, click the Groups Tab in your LinkedIn profile and search for SACIA
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Tait engulfs entire Olympic stadium with moving images The opening ceremony of the London 2012 Olympic Games saw the main stadium transformed into a huge array of LED video pixels, mapped to the space inhabited by the entire audience.
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eveloped by Tait Technologies, the pixel tablet has become the latest product to emerge from the expanding range of Tait’s available rental systems. Producing over 70,500 pixel tablets for the entire stadium seating grid saw video emerge from its two dimensional world to become 3D; the audience members integrated into the show itself. “The assembly of dispersed LED pixels to form very large video images has been with us for some time,” explained Frederic Opsomer, CEO of Tait Technologies, who drove the development of this stunning new device. “But never before has it been done on such a scale, and with such organic animation.” Opsomer is referring to the fact that the LED Pixel Tablets were placed firmly in the hands of the opening ceremony audience; all seventy-thousand five hundred of them.
Extremely durable “Little box or big box, it’s all the same challenge,” explained Opsomer, “To work for such an event, the product has to be waterproof to IP65, safe to use, durable. With so many in use, it also has to pass the most stringent EMC testing. The LEDs themselves are extremely durable; we might expect them to work for ten years in continuous use. Because the Olympics placed a firm focus on sustainability we have designed this product with an afterlife in mind.” The cabling infrastructure for the Olympic stadium was some 370km, and was installed by a local crew of ten within five weeks. The total system installation took just ten weeks with five technicians and six local crew members. Because of the nature of its use over the eight week period of the Olympics, the system was installed as a permanent installation. However, rapid deployment options are available for shorter, temporary installations.
continued Opsomer. “Tait has invested in their drivers and control, Barco delivered the PCB; the design, manufacturing and
Barco FLX platform Logistically this was big undertaking, “The backbone of the system is based on the tried and tested Barco FLX platform,” 20
assembly of the tablets was provided by Tait. Testing at the independent EMC laboratory in Belgium was exhaustive, but it had to be; the implications of seventythousand plus devices for the RF environment are of potential nightmare proportions.” The pixel mapping of the content into the stadium runs on the Ai Infinity Server from Avolites/Immersive. Opsomer says, “We chose Ai from Avolites because of Avolites substantial and long history in the field of entertainment; and quite simply this is one of the only server systems that can handle mapping on such huge scale. The Olympics was a one shot event, it had to be perfect, and the strength of the company reputation is reassuring to all those involved. Managing this volume of mapping is easy with the Ai software.” Content for the pixel tablets was provided by Crystal CG, the official digital
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IBC analyses the Summer Olympic Games
imaging services provider of London 2012 Olympics. “It was an absolute pleasure to work with Crystal as a content provider for this project. Content is such an integral part of the viewer’s experience and the content provided really showcased our system to the highest ability” says Opsomer. Landscape video opens unlimited opportunities for the use of this type of technology in live events and architectural
environments. Communication of any message on a large scale can be achieved without limits. “We think this is a blank canvas that event organisers are really going to enjoy,” says Carol Scott, Director of Sales and Marketing, Tait Technologies. “Having resolved the logistical problems down to manageable and affordable proportions, this becomes a realistic tool with which to enhance your event communication.”
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During IBC, in one of her first public forums post-Olympics, Barbara Slater, BBC’s Director of Sport, will compare notes with a distinguished international panel of broadcasters, recounting the highs and lows, challenges and triumphs of broadcasting the world’s biggest sports event. IBC delegates will be among the first in the world to get a complete analysis of how it all went down behind the scenes at London 2012, accompanied by amazing Olympics footage.
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The right information in all the right places The global advertising landscape has seen a dramatic transformation over the past decade. While traditional print advertisements in newspapers and magazines have witnessed a decline that threatens the existence of some print news media outlets, market share and interest in interactive advertisement on web, mobile and other innovative media has skyrocketed.
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he advent of affordable, interconnected, high-definition flat digital displays has enabled content providers, including advertisers, to replace static screens by timely targeted content delivered to the audience. According to a new report published by the ITU (International Telecommunications Union) digital signage “is a network of digital displays that are centrally managed and addressable for targeted information, entertainment, merchandising and advertisement�. While digital signage is now found in many different scenarios the highest
revenue comes from, and hence the major focus of the industry is on, digital out-ofhome (DOOH) advertising. Digital signage is not to be confused with television, broadcasting or a PC running a PowerPoint presentation in an infinite loop. The content either follows a pre-arranged linear playlist with clearly defined time slots for different content elements, or a dynamic playlist evolving according to many criteria including user inter-action. Content changes can also be triggered by location information or environmental sensors. Digital signage incorporates different technologies relying on a set of standards: displays, network infrastructure 22
for content delivery, communication protocols, and software and hardware for management and playback of content. Propelled by advances in the field of display technologies (such as touchscreen technology), radiofrequency identification (RFID) and near-field communication (NFC), personalization of content and user interaction has become increasingly relevant. Other trends include customized application programming interfaces (APIs) and Software-as-aService (SaaS) models that allow digital signage network operators to set up their networks and control and monitor campaigns via a remote location or the
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web. The fact that most digital signage solutions are proprietary systems impedes the integration of various applications across different networks or vendors. As long as products from different vendors do not interoperate, it will remain challenging and costly to build and expand large-scale digital signage networks.
US$ 4.5 billion industry According to the ITU, spending on digital signage systems, including displays, media players, software and installation/maintenance costs, will more than triple from close to USD 1.3 billion (2010) to almost USD 4.5 billion (2016). This rapid growth is associated with falling costs and increasing market penetration in the post-recession period. Furthermore, advances in areas such as LED and touch technologies provide businesses with unique and cost-effective ways of displaying information more impressively and more efficiently than ever.
Content is key While the United States represents the largest regional market, developing economies in Asia, Latin America and the Middle East are seen as major contributors to the predicted uptake of digital signage. Many cities in countries including Brazil, China, India, Malaysia, Singapore, Thailand and the UAE are witnessing a retail boom spurred by economic growth, increasing incomes and rising standards of living. Digital signage installations in the areas of retail, financial systems, hospitality and transportation could accompany and fuel this transition. With the technology now mature and increasingly widespread, design and selection of the content displayed is a key factor in achieving the desired effects. Crafting and conveying an appealing and appropriate message that engages the consumer, far from being a trivial task, is a skill involving aspects of market research, psychology, aesthetics and business. In many digital signage applications, it is essential that content is regularly updated and adapted to the market environment. While the playback of audio messages is an option, the predominant media used in digital signage networks are visual, as sound may be perceived as noise by consumers and staff present in the vicinity of the audio sources. The presentation of content with audio requires more bandwidth, more processing power and higher-quality end terminals. This can overload the communications infrastructure and limits responsiveness in content delivery. The content reproduced with digital signage can be as diverse as
Digital billboards, along with screens associated with airports, train stations, subway stations and store windows have become the “live poster” of the DOOH industry. They work by grabbing the attention of passing consumers for a brief period of time. These screens are mostly focused on establishing brand identity or value, and parcel out visually attractive or active content in short bursts. Many consumers are already familiar with the digital screens installed at airports that present a quick advert, and perhaps a weather forecast during the short trip from one gate to the next. That contrasts with an exterior screen on a taxi which functions as a moving billboard. These particular types of networks are often referred to as digital out of home (DOOH) networks where the advertiser is concerned about the reach and frequency verses in-store media that is concerned with sales uplift and is often referred to as digital signage.
its source. It is typically produced by marketing and sales professionals, professional audiovisual/web advertising agencies and freelancers, based on aggregator services (RSS feeds or feeds developed by ICT service providers) or generated by the user.
Technology overview Over the past decade, display technologies have seen major advances in resolution and drastic cost reductions.
Heavyweight, cumbersome and powerhungry CRT screens have essentially vanished from the scene and made way for ultra-flat LED, LCD and plasma panels in all sizes and resolutions, which can be deployed in any of the scenarios described earlier. Other applicationspecific parameters include casing, mounting and layout. Outdoor settings may make brightness control and dust, heat and water resistance indispensable. But development does not stop here: scientists and display engineers keep pushing the limits to further reduce cost and increase performance, quality of experience and energy efficiency. Displays based on organic LEDs (OLEDs) are becoming increasingly dominant in the small to medium screen size device segment (smartphones, portable digital media players and laptops), and will make their way to larger indoor and outdoor panels once manufacturing is profitable.
Recent developments in 3D Recent developments in 3D are also interesting and it appears reasonable to assume that “glasses-free 3D” screen technology will have a significant impact on digital signage if it succeeds in the consumer electronics market. Remote management of displays can be advantageous, in particular to manage onoff behaviour, colour settings, and audio 23
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volume. It can be observed that an increasing amount of functionality is being added to displays and this means that the implementation of digital signage terminals is now easier than it used to be.
Evolution of Media players As one might imagine, the role of the media player is not limited to presenting the right content on the right display at the right time. Media players used in digital signage also offer interfaces for remote monitoring and configuration services. They are responsible for managing proofof-display log files and implement audience measurement or user interaction capabilities. Finally, they have to be capable of providing support for the most common multimedia formats, unicast as well as multicast protocols. The offline characteristics of media players enable scheduled caching and downloading of media content and related resources based on a set of rules. Media player behaviour and performance can be managed by the head-end equipment using a pre-established communication protocol.
Content management Management and delivery of content to the media player is organized in the head-end through dedicated systems that have the ability to create, change and delete play schedules and to transfer these lists and the associated content. Content is stored internally or externally and described through metadata. The systems are capable of meeting the requirements of different application scenarios and appear for the most part in the form of robust and feature-rich “thick clients”. More complex systems can assign and manage roles to different classes of user (e.g. editors, contributors, freelancers) and allow for compositions combining remote and local content. In addition to content-related features, content management systems also implement tools for statistical analysis, audience profiling and log file auditing.
The wandering throngs in Times Square point their mobile phones and digital cameras at the 230 flickering signs that ascend more than 20 stories over New York City’s central public square. It’s a head-on collision between 350,000 daily pedestrians and 385,000 square feet of saturated colour. The signs on Times Square grow larger and climb higher than ever as digital technology has transformed both the displays and the way people use this elongated bowtie intersection.
almost six billion mobile cellular subscriptions worldwide, many of them including access to high-speed 3G services, mobile devices are virtually ubiquitous. All handsets feature at least some basic interfaces, including SMS, and short-range radio technologies such as Bluetooth and NFC. If the display point is equipped with the same interface, an SMS or the proximity of a consumer and handset can start a video clip or issue a coupon on the display or handset. Integration of information from the
Trends in digital signage Falling hardware costs mean that large-scale public display networks are becoming commonplace in many settings. However, the full potential of digital signage as an innovative interactive medium, as compared to traditional static media, has to some extent remained untapped. Some argue that the advantages need to be exploited in order to achieve the commercial breakthrough of digital signage technologies. One way of increasing interactivity is via the consumer’s mobile device: with 24
consumer’s social network application (Facebook) running on a smartphone could customize the information presented on the digital sign, and enable, for instance, targeted promotion. Many products in supermarkets and department stores now carry RFID tags for logistical purposes. Nutritional data on a food item and the item’s expiry date can easily be displayed on digital signage installations with RFID tag reader features, making such installations a part of the socalled Internet of Things.
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Biometric recognition of consumers Biometric recognition and its incorporation in digital signage is another hot topic. Under discussion is technology that can track heat paths to show a consumer’s movement around a retail environment while gaze tracking can be used to identify the area of a sign, which the consumer spends most time looking at. Biometrics can help identifying and distinguishing between frequent customers (previously enrolled) and first-time customers – priceless information for marketers. More controversial are biometric recognition technologies capable of determining the age, gender and ethnicity of passers-by. Microsoft Surface is an example combining some of these features and it gives a hint to what the future of digital signage could look like. Five infrared cameras embedded in the housing of a flat panel display are capable of recognizing and locating the fingertips of users touching and interacting with the display. Natural user interfaces (NUIs) like these enable users not only to passively consume but to actively participate and engage with the medium.
An experience for all senses? NTT Japan has taken the idea of engagement somewhat further and launched digital signs equipped with aroma-emitting devices in order to strengthen the impact of marketing communications. Branded as Kaoru Signage (aroma signage), the product combines digital signage and NTT’s Kaori Tsushin (fragrance communication) online service, which instructs specified webconnected devices to emit moodheightening aromas. The strength of the fragrance can be adjusted to meet the requirements of the scenario. A broadband connection enables video, sound and fragrance settings to be transmitted to multiple locations. NTT believes that aromas increase the chances of passers-by seeing the sign, remembering the product being advertised and eventually buying it.
Most digital signage implementations in retail have focused on large plasma screens hung high in the store and broadcasting video-only content. However, some recent and planned pilots are taking the dynamic messaging capabilities of digital signs down to the shelf edge.
on digital signage networks of any size.
Conclusion No longer limited to New York’s Times Square, the London Stock Exchange or the commercial areas of Shinjuku, Tokyo, digital displays are becoming increasingly omnipresent at Points of Wait, Sale and Transit. Many of them are part of extensive networks of connected displays that are managed centrally and addressable for targeted information, entertainment, merchandising and advertising – an emerging medium described as digital signage. While the number of service providers and manufacturers of digital signage components and solutions is increasing, the associated standards ecosystem appears to be rather incomplete. Some groups and initiatives are calling for interoperability to facilitate the rollout of
Cloud-based digital signage The cloud computing paradigm has been seeing a breakthrough in a wide area of applications over the last couple of years. Many digital signage service providers are following the trend and offering digital signage Software as a metered and managed Service (SaaS model), payable per hour of use or number of operations. SaaS has emerged as a popular solution because it is reliable and cost efficient and can be deployed rapidly 25
large-scale digital signage networks, foster innovative applications and avoid vendor lock-in. These groups include advertising industry associations, technical suppliers, national interest groups and a number of formal standards development bodies, such as ITU-T. ITU-T Study Group 16 has taken an important first step by starting work on a “Framework for Digital Signage Services”. Recognizing that a useful foundation has been laid for the similar IPTV application space of IPTV, much work remains to be done in order to achieve an all-embracing digital signage suite of standards. This suite would also include screen-media formats and associated advertising units, network requirements, security and privacy enhancing solutions and test cases. Extensive collaboration with the digital signage industry and its interest groups should contribute to taking the next steps without duplication of effort.
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First Gulf extend Radio-Assist installation at Radio Riyadh NETIA is working with systems integrator First Gulf to extend the Radio-Assist 8 suite of digital audio software at Radio Riyadh to include three regional stations in Saudi Arabia, located in the cities of Jizan, Hail, and Tabuk.
P
art of a larger multi-year national media infrastructure project overseen by the Saudi Ministry of Culture and Information (MOCI), the extension of Radio-Assist brings more sophisticated production tools to the three stations and simplifies their exchange of media with the kingdom's central Radio Riyadh station. NETIA technology already plays a key role in the restoration, digitization, and preservation of audiovisual media of cultural and historical importance in Saudi Arabia.
Exchange of content "We are proud to be working with NETIA to extend state-of-the-art production and broadcast capabilities to regional stations and to facilitate and streamline the exchange of content
between the country's radio broadcasters," said Naim G. Saidi, CEO of First Gulf Company. The Radio-Assist 8 range of digital audio software programs covers the entire operation of a radio station, addressing acquisition, sound file
editing, commercial and music production, scheduling, multicasting, data security, and administration. The installation of Radio-Assist at Jizan, Hail, and Tabuk ensures the interoperability of media management systems across broadcast stations and provides the foundation for shared access to the extensive national archives being created by MOCI. "Saudi Arabia is undertaking an ambitious upgrade to its national media infrastructure, and we're pleased to be a part of this project," said Thomas Dresch, project manager at NETIA. "With this latest NETIA installation, key radio stations across the country have been able improve their local production capabilities while taking much greater advantage of resources and programming at Radio Riyadh."
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Morocco's Medi 1 benefits from increased automation NETIA, a leading software manufacturer of media asset management and radio automation solutions, has announced that Medi 1 Radio will go live by the end of 2012 with NETIA's Air-DDO, the broadcasting module of the Radio-Assist 8 automation system.
M
edi 1, a NETIA user for almost 15 years, has been using Radio-Assist for production and scheduling since the station moved from analog to digital in 1998. The Tangier, Morocco-based station was the first Radio-Assist customer outside Europe, and its adoption of RadioAssist 8 and the Air-DDO broadcast module is the latest milestone in its continuing quest to deliver high-quality multilingual radio services to audiences across the region. "After our long and successful relationship with NETIA, Medi 1's move to Radio-Assist 8 last year is a logical progression, and one that we were confident would bring us yet another step up in the efficiency and quality of our operation," said Ahmed Abakkali, IT manager at Medi 1 Radio. "Our staff is now completely familiar
with the system, so the switch to AirDDO will be an easy upgrade that will streamline our service even more." The Radio-Assist 8 Air-DDO broadcast module is the result of several years of research and reflection, and focuses as much on the
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ergonomics as on the technology. Spread over two monitor screens, AirDDO's GUI simultaneously displays the four broadcast channels, as well as access to numerous help and preparation tools — including on-air monitoring, playlist modification, track editing, recording sounds, and more. "It's a real pleasure to work with the people at Medi 1 Radio, who have been loyal and enthusiastic Radio-Assist customers for so long," said Jean Michel Bombois, operations project manager at NETIA. "Radio is exceptionally important in the region covered by Medi 1, and the station is always keen to deliver an outstanding product. Now, with the adoption of AirDDO, Medi 1 can be assured of substantial gains in efficiency and production quality."
The South African Communications Industries Association is a not-for-profit Trade Association committed to promoting the adoption of professional standards in the audiovisual industry throughout Africa.
An informed business choice Question: When selecting a vendor for your next AV installation, which of these items is the LEAST important item you should consider? a. Price quoted for the project b. Installation quality of the installations dept c. Company reputation in the marketplace d. Financial stability of the supplier
Answer: (a) In today’s tough economic climate it’s obviously important to consider price as an important factor in choosing a supplier for your next AV installation. But choosing a supplier based on price alone is a surefire path to failure and an ineffective AV solution. Chose a vendor based on their ability to provide an AV solution that meets your requirements and make sure you’re buying from a reputable organization with certified staff and the resources to back-up your installation on a longterm basis.
SACIA is the leading trade association for the professional AV industry in Southern Africa. We promote the adoption of professional standards in the local market and our members commit to truth, honesty and the pursuit of excellence in all aspects of the audiovisual profession. When you’re looking for a reputable supplier with a proven track record in the professional AV market, our members are a good place to start. For more information on SACIA and a full list of members, please visit www.sacia.org.za
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Sky News Arabia puts Vizrt at the core of its News graphics Sky News Arabia, the new 24-hour free-to-air Arabic news channel, launched in May using a sophisticated Vizrt system to deliver its live news graphics. Vizrt is the sole news graphics provider for the Abu Dhabi based channel. This is a departure from the news graphics workflow used by Sky News in the UK, sister channel to Sky News Arabia, which uses both Vizrt and another provider.
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he channel has a variety of uses for real-time 3D graphics, such as the “screen furniture” of multiple tickers, side panels, maps and Breaking News alerts constantly animating around the video window. In addition, the news content includes full-frame 3D animations in its stories, as well as displaying maps and background story graphics displayed on a large video wall in the studio. The Viz World map server allows news producers to generate animated 3D maps instantly from their newsroom system, providing useful geographical context for every news story. Everything is generated with a consistently branded look that is uniquely Sky News Arabia.
System efficiency System efficiency, which could deliver breaking news first, was the primary objective in designing the Vizrt workflow. This was achieved by building in a high level of automation into the graphics templates used by operators and in the newsroom. This provides a very high quality 3D animation, with consistent branding ready to take to air within seconds of a story breaking. This
can be added to and enhanced as more information becomes available throughout the day. This results in two distinct workflows to deliver a wellrounded channel output: reliable templated news graphics (by the graphics design company, Astuce Media) integrated with Sky News Arabia’s iNews newsroom system for
ultra-fast population by producers and editor. These are enhanced by longer, full-frame graphics designed by the inhouse design team, who can respond quickly to news priorities passed to them by the editorial team. These graphics can be built into the story video, to explain key points, as well as used interactively by the studio talent on the Newswall in the studio.
Quality of finish Roland West, Creative Head for Sky News Arabia, explained the choice of Vizrt’s graphics system. "When we set out to create Sky News Arabia, the key requirements to delivering a successful graphics package were quality of finish, ease of use, unity of platform and a breadth of graphic presentation. Having built on the knowledge shared by Sky News UK and Vizrt through a collaborative relationship, we have successfully launched the channel on a graphics system capable of achieving the quality and speed that Sky News demands." Martin Burkhaulter, CEO at Vizrt added: “Sky News Arabia’s requirements presented us with a genuine challenge. The workflow is extremely streamlined. It relies a great deal on graphics automation of sophisticated templates that are populated by news producers. The 29
emphasis is very clearly on speed and getting breaking news on air with the minimum of delay. I feel sure this is a key factor that will set Sky News Arabia apart from its competitors. Good integration between all aspects of the Vizrt graphics system was fundamental to a smooth and fast workflow, which meant that sticking with one system throughout was absolutely the right decision. The success of their launch on May 6th has already proven what good TV journalism, backed up by fully integrated graphics created by their local design team, can do.”
Challenging project Oliver Pitkin, Project Manager for Sky News Arabia added; “This was always going to be a challenging project– particularly in integrating a wellproven Sky News UK ethos and workflow into a Middle Eastern context and broadcasting everything in Arabic. We pre-built the entire technical infrastructure in a warehouse provided by TSL in the UK and then shipped it to Abu Dhabi. We have had terrific support from Vizrt at every stage of the process. We continue to receive support and advice from Vizrt locally and we expect our well integrated Vizrt core to become the backbone of the Middle East’s leading channel for breaking news.”
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Botswana TV upgrades and globalizes workflow with Quantel Botswana TV (BTV) has purchased a major upgrade for its Quantel Enterprise sQ news production system.
B
TV is the state broadcaster for Botswana in southern Africa and has been using Quantel news production tools since 2001. The upgrade provides BTV with the latest Quantel V5 software which makes all journalist and editing PCs compliant with the latest Windows 7 operating system as well as adding a host of new editing, workflow and management facilities.
Upgrade workstations Also included in the deal are upgrades of BTV’s craft editing workstations to the new Quantel Qube, which provides fast GPU-based image processing along with increased media storage. In addition to the upgrades, BTV has invested in Quantel's QTube global media workflow solution. This will enable BTV users in regional bureaux spread across Botswana to access the Quantel
all aspects of our production for over a decade and have always been happy with the combination of incredible power and speed of the Quantel servers linked to a simple-to-use editing interface. The ability to extend this interface into our regional bureaux using QTube is another big step for us. This will enable us to combine content from different locations to add context and value to our news output, giving our viewers an even better experience."
Public service broadcaster
production system in the capital, Gaborone. The QTube system is configured to allow users in BTV's eight regional centers to simultaneously view and edit live content captured in the Enterprise sQ system over standard internet connections.
Although Government owned, Botswana Television operates in accordance with the conventional norms of a public service broadcasting organization and enjoys a reasonable degree of editorial independence that allows it to portray Botswana's political and socio-economic fabric as it is.
Great engineering support Director of Botswana TV’s Department of Broadcasting Services, Lesole Obonye said, "This major upgrade demonstrates our complete satisfaction with Quantel production systems and the company’s great engineering support service. We have been using Quantel for 30
Programming aims at reflecting the democratic tradition of Botswana by adhering to the principle of balanced reporting, showing both sides of the story and adhering to objectivity. "Building an Informed and educated nation is one of priorities,” says Obonye, “and we have invested in technology that allows us to deliver quality education, information and entertainment to the people of Botswana and beyond. We aim to serve our customers in a transparent and responsible manner by exploiting new technologies, as well as by training and motivating employees to take pride in the organization.” Quantel Sales Director, Martin Mulligan concludes; “Botswana TV has been a loyal customer of Quantel’s for many years and we are delighted that the broadcaster has chosen once again to move forward with our solutions.”
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World Record projection at Buckingham palace UK-based projection artist Ross Ashton of The Projection Studio had his ‘Face Britain’ video projection work onto the front of Buckingham Palace officially confirmed as a Guinness World Record for the ‘most artists working on the same art installation’.
T
he work – formatted for the widescreen canvass of Buckingham Palace - featured 32 animated mosaic portraits of HM The Queen made up form a total of 201,948 selfportraits submitted by children from around the UK. All these portraits have been carefully scrutinised by Guinness World Records and certified as individual artworks.
Landmark achievement Ashton designed and created the finished projection portraits working with Moscow-based Boris Glazer, using a bespoke version of his Mazaika software to encode all the photos and compose the 32 images from all the images. For the show, the component images all ‘flew’ together to make the individual portraits of The Queen, which
were based on a template image supplied by Royal photographer, Arthur Edwards. Says Ashton, “Obviously I’m extremely proud of this land-mark achievement. It was a big challenge and a lot of fun working on the project, with an incredible response from children and young people nationwide
who really engaged with the concept. It was hugely inspiring to deliver a work based on all their original contributions.� Children aged 4 – 16 were invited to produce their own self-portraits by Face Britain encompassing all levels of skill and in any medium, including drawing, photography, textiles, painting and graphics. Ashton worked closely with CT’s Scott Burgess to design the projection system and CT supplied all the hardware for the installation, including the 24 Barco and Panasonic projectors, complete with weatherised hides and crew. The show ran for three evenings at the end of April and attracted massive public interest. It was also the first time that video projections have been used on the front of The Palace.
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Green Screen Lighting
CHAPTERS INCLUDE:
Join CARL GUNDESTRUP, veteran film, television and
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• Lighting for Generic Backgrounds
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Carl Gundestrup has been lighting independent films, television commercials and corporate video for 30 years. His clients include NBC, ABC, Industrial Light & Magic, Pepsi, Bath and Body Works, America›s Most Wanted, Xango and the Utah Jazz. He resides in Utah and is a married father of 4 children.
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Do you have the tools to communicate into the future? Today’s organisations face a host of challenges from all directions when it comes to communication, exacerbated by evolving business challenges and customer demand for ever increasing functionality. Social networking, Bring Your Own Device (BYOD) and the explosion of mobile communication technology only serve to complicate an already complex issue.
N
ext generation Unified Communications (UC) platforms simplify the complexity and enable organisations to deliver any communication service to any user on any device, anywhere in the world. They also provide the base for a number of innovative emerging technologies, including presence, intelligent video and contextual collaboration. Organisations are tasked with delivering great customer experiences, with fast problem resolution, enhanced productivity and faster execution, at a lower cost than ever. On top of this, end users are demanding anytime, anywhere communications using any device and a variety of media, including social networking. These challenges evolve over time, so new services must be able to be deployed quickly and easily to enable organisations to continue to communicate effectively.
Unified communications service However, without first addressing the communications network and bringing it up to a level where these technologies can be leveraged, it is impossible to deliver a true, unified communications service. Many organisations also have legacy equipment, and a rip and replace strategy is not financially viable. The latest generation UC platforms enable organisations to create a communications core which simplifies the concept of truly unified communications. These platforms act as a middleware layer that aggregates services from a variety of devices, including traditional PBXs, tablets, mobile phones and so on, and brings them together to offer centralised access to all communication services. Through this core, every communication service within the organisation is deliverable to any user, through any device and with any medium, to any location, with high quality and cost effective delivery. The UC platform also then serves as a springboard that
organisation. Video streaming can be delivered in HD or SD, depending on the network capability, the user’s device and the user preferences, and can be customised according to each participant’s needs. Bandwidth is only used as necessary to provide the appropriate video quality, and if bandwidth availability is reduced, the consumption will adjust accordingly. These innovations make the concept of video conferencing far more viable, particularly in a still bandwidth scarce environment like South Africa “Today’s organisations face a host of communication challenges,” says Paul Fick, division MD at Jasco Enterprise Solutions.
enables organisations to incorporate the latest generation of productivity and experience enhancing solutions. Presence is one exciting possibility that is opened up when using a UC platform. Presence is not limited to online communication tools such as instant messenger and VoIP, but can also be applied to many other tools. Using such a platform it is possible to aggregate presence data from many different sources, including tablets, mobile phones, instant messaging applications and so on, delivering a combined presence that can be made available both within and external to the organisation. This enhances productivity and ensures that people can communicate effectively on a variety of media.
Video streaming Another technology that becomes more viable is that of video conferencing and streaming. One of the issues with video in the past has been that lack of bandwidth on one side of the conversation has rendered high definition impossible for all participants. This compromises the quality of the service for all. Using new UC platforms however, video can be leveraged intelligently according to the network and bandwidth capabilities of the 33
Universal collaboration Collaboration, the latest buzzword in the IT space, is also made possible using a UC platform in an agile communications environment. This enables truly universal collaboration with a consistent experience across devices, regardless of platform or operating system. It also enables access to contextual information during collaboration sessions, which enhances the experience and provides opportunities for further improvement to productivity. Predictive contacts provide an address book ordered by relevance to the current communication, along with conversation logs across all media including voice calls, emails, messages and so on. Contextual collaboration also provides contextual access to documents, email attachments, desktop contents, folders and so on, as well as relevant information on all participants in the communication such as contact information and preferences, presence and calendar. Together, these technologies help organisations to bring together the right people with the right information in the right context, using the medium of their choice. This in turn delivers better business results in realtime. Contextual collaboration through a variety of media is the communication of the future. With next generation Unified Communication platforms and associated add-on technologies, organisations are equipped to communicate now and in the future.
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Movie magic is only as good as the camera it’s shot on Visual Effects is a broad term that encompasses the realms of animation, compositing, matte painting and physical model building. There are countless techniques, technologies and tools that help VFX artists to achieve their special brand of movie magic, but the one factor they have little control over is the quality of the footage they receive.
W
ith the advent of the Red One camera on the highend, and the 5DmkII on the low-end, there was a huge shake up in the world of movie-making, certainly from a cost perspective. This paradigm-shift also put a proverbial nail in the coffin of traditional emulsion film, and naysayers need look no further than Kodak’s recent financial woes for clear evidence of this. Ask any Visual Effects artist who worked on a movie shot on film and they would be the first to celebrate the simpler workflows around which current post-production pipelines revolve. But progress is always a double-edged sword. Cameras such as the Red Epic, the Panavision Genesis and the Arri Alexa, are all central to digital filmmaking, but each has its quirks and each has its strengths.
Red One / Epic
Tattoo, and the remake of Total Recall.
Arri Alexa
camera arena and sits far below Sony’s Cine Alta cameras in the rankings. At the time of its launch, the camera could only
The shoots at full 1080p, but Arri elected to (and very wisely so) focus their
What a fantastic camera! It shoots at 4K (4 times larger than HD), but is slightly compressed. When doing green screen
work or pushing colour correction heavily in post, the footage can start to buckle, with subtle jagged edges becoming apparent, revealing unwelcome compression artefacts. The Red’s biggest advantage is, by far, its resolution, which immediately affords filmmakers a lot of latitude when it comes to finishing. Directors can really play with footage in post, zooming by up to 300% without images losing clarity. Movies shot on Red to look out for are Judge Dredd, The Hobbit, Prometheus, Girl with the Dragon
development on image fidelity instead of making another 4K monster. The camera has fantastic fidelity that holds up excellently in the grade, giving filmmakers a closer match to the beauty of traditional film. The Alexa is fast becoming a favourite amongst VFX supervisors, primarily for the quality of the green screen plates the camera is capable of.
put out 4:2:2 imagery to an external recorder. This is a shortcoming if one considers its closest rival, the Canon C300, does this natively to an onboard memory card. Green screen work with the F3 is possible, but not ideal. Compression artefacts, although minimal, become very apparent in keyed shots containing fine detail.
Movies to look out for shot on Arri: Skyfall, The Avengers, and Hugo.
Canon 5Dmk II / III
Sony F3 The Sony F3 is a somewhat lightweight contender in the HD movie 34
Very few cameras have ever caused such a stir amongst guerrilla filmmakers. Here you have a stills camera that can shoot full 1080p video and has interchangeable lenses, features which
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studio worth their salt would turn you away at the door if you brought them 5D green screen clips. I would advise independent filmmakers to take a serious look at Blackmagic’s new cinema camera as a viable alternative. It is capable of so much more than any of its competitors in a similar price range.... and includes a full license of Davinci's Resolve grading software.
Canon C300 were historically limited to pro-level cameras. Amazing productions have been shot on this camera, including an episode of House, but in the visual effects world, it’s a dirty word. This camera shoots to an Mpeg-4 codec which is an end-result codec, not a production codec, in fact it’s not much better than the quality of a clip on youtube. Another major drawback to these cameras is rolling shutter. The 5D doesn’t capture frames instantaneously, it scans the image from top to bottom over 1080 lines per frame. This means when you pan the camera, all vertical lines turn to jelly and feel like they’re wobbling about. The mkIII has improved on this, but the problem is still there. The 5D is not a serious film camera and any Visual Effects
The C300 is Canon’s first foray into pro-level digital film cameras. It shoots
1080p at 4:2:2 natively and can put out 4:4:4 to an external recorder. It’s available in either PL or EF mounts, has a pretty good looking picture and costs a good deal less than Sony’s lacklustre F3. It’s still not all that when it comes to VFX though. Canon’s first salvo seems to have been fired at Arri’s Alexa, but next year sees the launch of the Canon C500, which clearly has Red in its sights. This camera will shoot full 4K, record 4:4:4 RAW and has all the bells and whistles its competitors have.
George Webster is VFX supervisor at LocoVFX in Johannesburg.
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BSI’s roving RF cameras win through torrential rain Broadcast Sports Inc.(BSI)’s new UK office, which supplies wireless video and audio systems outside the USA, provided unbroken RF coverage of the Grand Prix from Australia and Malaysia on Sky Sport’s F1HD. This was in spite of torrential down pours in both countries. In Malaysia, rain was so heavy that the race was stopped for a period, due to poor visibility and water on the track..
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SI provided six radio camera systems with two return vision systems, all in High Definition, with receivers and a fibrebased infrastructure, which had multiple antennas to allow complete coverage of the pit lane and paddock garages. These were used with Panasonic camcorders with full camera control provided by BSI for the races, all on the 7GHz frequency. Forecasts of humidity and very challenging weather conditions had caused speculation about the performance of wireless equipment in the first two races of the series. BSI, which was founded to deliver on-board cameras for NASCAR and now dominates point-ofview motor racing coverage in America, provided a small team of skilled RF engineers on site to set up and manage all of the RF equipment during the races.
Sports were looking for a RF supplier, we needed one who had a proven track record of working in these environments, and a team that had the expertise to deliver in any difficult condition. BSI have delivered 100% of the package we asked for and Sky Sports have been very happy at the service we've received.” In February this year Sky Sports launched its Sky Sports F1HD channel on which it will broadcast live coverage of every race in the F1 season as well as Technical Director Tony Valentino commented, “It was a clean shoot – the key to success lies in preparation and planning, which was all done in advance to ensure that everything worked right first time. A lot of thought went into getting it right, so that we could just turn up, plug in and switch on and have all of our cameras fully operational right through each race.” Commenting for Sky Sports, Darren Long said: “The RF environments in and around the F1 venues are some of the most difficult to deal with so when Sky 37
every practice and qualifying session, plus a range of support programming including the weekly preview show ‘The F1 Show’ and the F1 Legends series. In addition, the channel will also show live GP2 and GP3 coverage showcasing the emerging stars of motorsport. Although a new provider outside the USA, BSI has scooped a contract to provide RF cameras, links and infrastructure for the entire series of 20 races.
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Soweto Theatre lights up with ETC In the dark days of apartheid South Africa, theatre was one of the most important means of exposing racist rule. And now, with the opening of the stunning Soweto Theatre in Johannesburg, it has become important once again.
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nd to help performances look their best, the new building has been fitted out with over 200 ETC Source Four luminaires, including 72 Source Four Fresnels. Supplied by Johannesburgbased ETC dealer Prosound, the Source Four luminaires provide the workhorses in the main auditorium and almost entirely account for the overhead rigs in the two studio spaces. “ETC Source Four Fresnels were a late entry into the competition,” says Denis Hutchinson, theatre consultant on the project. “ETC flew a unit out to South Africa for me to test and I was very pleasantly surprised. To the eye at least the output is comparable to a 1200W Fresnel and of course you are only running 750W, so from the green perspective it’s a better unit. They are very
supplied the theatre with a large amount of accessories, including barn doors, top hats, irises, gobo holders, boom arms and lens tubes. “The choice to install the Source Four lighting range will give the theatre’s patrons an enhanced visual experience that will match any production in the world today. We’ve already had some fantastic feedback from both visitors and staff, and are honoured to able to help regenerate the area.” The new theatre in the heart of the world’s most well known township deliberately resembles a giant child's toy, with walls clad in bright blue, yellow and red tiles – contrasting with the community halls where plays in Soweto were once performed. Theatregoing fell during the
nicely and solidly built and the way in which the lamp is housed is very solid. I think they will work very well for this venue; and of course virtually all the luminaires in the studio spaces will use the same lamp. This means the theatre doesn’t have to carry stock of lots of different lamps, which is also very useful in terms of ongoing running costs.” Prosound managing director Ian Blair adds: “With the installation of ETC’s Source Four lighting range, the Soweto Theatre will stand out as a theatre of international quality, rivalling not just Johannesburg and Cape town, but also London and New York. Over and above the Source Fours themselves, we also 38
1970s and 1980s, when crime was rife and people were afraid to leave their homes at night; now, with home entertainment, criminals are being kept busy at home with their TVs and computer consoles. Crime has reduced and the streets are once again safe for locals. The new Soweto Theatre is made up of two variable configuration studio theatres of 180 and 90 seats, along with a main proscenium auditorium with 420 seats. The schedule is already oversubscribed, with its first months dedicated to youth, comedy and Women’s Day events. The venue is also the host for the TV talent show Idols. In the long run, it is set to move from a receiving house to a production house.
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Meyer Sound renewed at Lebanon’s Casino du Liban When Lebanon’s Casino du Liban celebrated its grand re-reopening back in 1996, the opulent gaming resort entertained visiting jet-setters in two completely remodeled venues—both featuring Meyer Sound technology.
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etween 2009 and earlier this year, another technical upgrade project equipped the 1,200-capacity Théâtre du Liban with Meyer Sound MICA line array loudspeakers and furnished the cabaret-style 600-seat Salle des Ambassadeurs with new M’elodie line array loudspeakers. “After hundreds of successful shows, I had no thoughts of replacing the old systems with anything other than Meyer,” says Tony Khoury, who has been head audio engineer at Casino du Liban since 1996. “I wanted newer technology but with the same natural sound quality and amazing reliability. In 16 years, I had zero loudspeaker failures. That made me a Meyer Sound believer.” Both systems were designed by Khoury, in consultation with Meyer Sound Design Services, using the MAPP Online Pro acoustical prediction program. For the two-level Théâtre du Liban, Khoury plotted
a configuration with seven-per-side MICA line arrays each flown under a 600-HP subwoofer, with additional deep bass from dual ground-stacked 700-HP subwoofers. Four M1D line array loudspeakers and five UPM-1P loudspeakers supply front fill and balcony delay respectively, with everything
tied together by a Galileo loudspeaker management system with one Galileo 616 processor. In Salle des Ambassadeurs, the newer of the two rigs deploys seven-perside M’elodie line array loudspeakers along with twin UPQ-2 loudspeakers as a center cluster, four UPJunior VariO loudspeakers for left and right side fill, 10 M1D loudspeakers for under-balcony fill, two 700-HP subwoofers, and a Galileo loudspeaker management system with a Galileo 616 processor. “The new line arrays have given me much more headroom, and even better uniformity of levels and imaging throughout the rooms,” states Khoury. “Since we completed the installation at Salle des Ambassadeurs, we’ve had seven concerts and all the bands were surprised by the punch of the system and the clarity of instrumental sounds.”
Africa's SuperSport employs Volicon for compliance monitoring SuperSport, one of the world's leading sports broadcasters, is using Volicon’s Observer digital video logging and monitoring system to record 64 channels (currently eight HD and 56 SD), all locally packaged.
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he Volicon system, delivered, installed and supported by systems integrator Concilium Technologies, gives SuperSport a reliable, rapid, and straightforward means of performing ongoing compliance monitoring and reporting, as well as ad verification, for all 64 channels. "Our mission is to be the best and most successful provider of premium pay-TV sports coverage across the continent of Africa, and Volicon's Observer system is proving to be an exceptionally valuable and reliable tool for monitoring and maintaining the integrity of our extensive broadcast offering," said Eddie McAlone, technical director of SuperSport Media Solutions. "Staff from engineering to sales can provide proof of what was broadcast, and do so quickly and with ease." The Volicon Observer system captures, stores, and streams
broadcast content and gives SuperSport staff instant access to live and recorded content from an easy-to-use, Web-based GUI. Users throughout SuperSport can monitor the content going out to air or dial back as many as 90 days to find and provide proof that content aired properly. The ability to play, pause, and search recorded content on either a desktop or mobile device aids each department and its staff in maintaining and demonstrating the quality and compliance of its programs and commercials. The quality of experience module for Observer supports 39
agile monitoring and troubleshooting at SuperSport by providing real-time alarms for faulty video, audio, and closed captioning. Volicon's patented Virtual Media Network (VMN) technology provides a unique architecture that allows for optimized video logging and monitoring, seamless and efficient streaming throughout the organization, and efficient expansion and scalability. "SuperSport puts a massive volume and variety of content on the air, and the Observer dramatically simplifies monitoring of all this content for regulatory and contractual compliance," said Russell Wise, vice president of global sales at Volicon. "With the means to provide unequivocal proof of compliance very quickly, SuperSport can turn more of its time and resources toward creating and delivering quality sports coverage."
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Africa’s fight against corruption and bribery hits the boardroom The fight against corruption and bribery is a global phenomenon which has gained momentum in recent years worldwide. However, the problem is that if anything, it’s getting worse, and especially so in Africa. The fight is more than a moral obligation; it’s a reality that is now criminally enforceable with severe penalties for those who flout the law.
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espite anti-corruption and bribery legislation being in place, the problem seems to be growing in Africa. According to a recent survey by the anti-corruption organisation, Transparency International, in four out of six countries people paid bribes to speed up service delivery, while in South Africa more bribes were paid to avoid problems with the authorities.
Tim Marshall’s Top Tips for Fighting Corruption and Bribery:
• Continually monitor and review procedures designed to prevent corruption and bribery amongst employees, clients and suppliers • Devise and practice good corporate governance and ensure the Board Directors buy into compliance and procedures of the new legislation • Review supplier relationships to ensure all comply with the law • Instigate and make public through mass communication and clear transparency, the anti-bribery and corruption policies for both internal and external stakeholders • Develop and put into practice internal controls, ethics and compliance programmes • Ensure due diligence in all business practice and procedures are followed and well documented
Whilst the figures are alarmingly worrying, it is no complete surprise that in South Africa, there has been a flurry of high profile prosecutions of public figures who have had the whistle blown on their own criminal activities. The convictions of presidential advisor Schabir Shaik and police chief Jackie Selebi are a vivid example that demonstrate the willingness of authorities to fight corruption and unethical business practices. However, companies should be aware that under new legislation the spotlight is now on business activities in the boardroom. Bribery and corruption in both the public and private sectors is a given and has been around for hundreds of years, but those companies who are turning a blind eye will ultimately pay a high price. While some argue that bribery and corruption is embedded in the business culture of Africa, the tide is fast turning where ethics and legislation combine to combat such criminal activity with unlimited fines and prison sentences for those who do not comply. At the crux of this tide for change is the international crackdown on bribery, not only in a particular country, but also for any organisation doing business with that country. 40
Foreign corrupt practices The United States were fast of the mark to deal with corruption and bribery when they introduced the Foreign Corrupt Practices Act in 1977 which enforced accounting transparency requirements, and the bribery of foreign officials for business. This piece of legislation has forced many US companies to conduct an assessment of any new foreign business partner, to ensure there are no traces of corruption historically.
Schabir Shaik is a South African businessman and former adviser to President Jacob Zuma. In 2005 he was found guilty of corruption and fraud, and sentenced to 15 years' imprisonment on each of the two counts of corruption, as well as three years on the count of fraud, to run concurrently. He was released on medical parole after serving two years and four months of his 15-year prison term, in 2009.
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What’s more, it means that any businesses in Southern Africa looking to do business in the states must have a clean sheet for bribery and corruption in business practice. Likewise, the United Kingdom introduced new legislation which came into force last year (Bribery Act 2010) which goes a step further in tacking international bribery and corruption. The key elements of the act make it criminally enforceable for offences which include offering or paying a bribe; requesting or receiving a bribe; bribing a foreign public official and importantly, companies can now be prosecuted for failing to prevent bribery from being undertaken on behalf of an organisation.
Africa as well, as South African businesses will be forced to ensure they have their own controls, policies and procedures in place by their foreign business partners,” said Tim Marshall, CEO, Trifecta Capital Services. “It is now up to all businesses to ensure they have taken preventative measures to wipe out bribery and corruption within their organisation or face unlimited fines and imprisonment as a result. The companies taking a pro-active and visible stance against corruption and bribery are likely to be the ones who win in the foreseeable future.”
Jackie Selebi is the former national commissioner of the South African Police Service and a former president of Interpol. In January 2008, Selebi was put on extended leave as national police commissioner, and resigned as president of Interpol, after he was charged with corruption. In 2010 he was convicted and sentenced to 15 years imprisonment.
Anti-bribery provisions The South African Companies Act (Section 43) also makes provision for anti-bribery provisions with the onus now on a company to comply, and requires a company’s social and ethics committee to monitor their anticorruption processes and procedures. “It goes without saying that corporate governance, ethics and better business practice is the future, not only internationally but within South
Barco LED displays Spectacular LED displays for rental and fixed installations Barco is a global leader in LED technology. Our comprehensive LED portfolio includes cutting edge LED display solutions suited for various applications, both live events and fixed installations.
From huge outdoor LED installations for concerts and events to smaller indoor LED displays in corporate foyers, fashion shows or car shows, Barco has the right LED solution to answer your specific needs.
Distributed by Questek Advanced Technologies Phone: +27 11 706 0405 t Fax: +27 11 706 0308 Fairway Park, 52 Grosvenor Road, Bryanston, South Africa george@questek.co.za www.questekadvanced.co.za
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displayLED showcases dramatic new generation digiFLEX tile
Smallest, lightest and brightest 20k lumens projector in the market
International screen specialist displayLED has launched a new generation of the flexible LED tile, digiFLEX. The new digiFLEX is a more robust version of displayLED’s previous award winning flexible screen, upgraded to be production friendly in concert touring environments while simultaneously providing camera friendly imagery in television studios. The product also opens up creative and dramatic opportunities for architectural applications and for creating stunning displays for the conference and exhibition market.“The new digiFLEX is a rugged, rental-friendly product with robust connections and handling for touring use,” says Tom Mudd, displayLED’s technical manager. “With a magnetic installation system, digiFLEX is extremely easy to use, allowing any metal surface to be covered with this LED video skin. If you can make the shape in steel we can cover it in digiFLEX.”
Digital Projection has announced the launch of its latest addition to their Titan projector range – the Titan Super Quad. Delivering a stunning 20,000 Lumens output the Titan Super Quad offers the best performance on the market today in every significant area. It is at least 40% smaller than any other comparable projector. Using state of the art design, construction and thermal controls allows Digital Projection to produce this class-leading product. No projector of this size produces close to the 20K Lumens output of the Titan Super Quad. Couple this with four long life lamps offering up to 8000 hours life means cost of ownership is further reduced and it is friendly to the environment. The Super Quad is also the quietest projector in its class on the market. The liquid cooling and Dynamic Thermal Control, including the 18 fans, are all individually regulated. This enables the ability to mount in any position, in any environment, as the projector will automatically adjust itself. This is a constant process, which brings many advantages, amongst others, to be run at 100% output 24/7.
Super slim public display with Edge LED backlight
NEC Display Solutions has unveiled the MultiSync X401S, a 40-inch LCD public display that combines
efficiency - thanks to its Edge LED backlight - with elegance due to the superslim and light design. Being the best in class professional public display product with Edge LED technology, the MultiSync X401S is an ideal solution for retail signage as well as mission-critical signage applications for airports/ transportation, control room applications and even for SR installations and solutions in totems and furniture. The X401S rounds out NEC's hugely popular XS Series, and will join the 46- and 55inch models in the same series.
Kathea announces Polycom RealPresence Mobile 1.3 Kathea has announced the availability of the latest version of Polycom RealPresence Mobile 1.3. This update expands availability to the HTC One S, HTC One X, and HTC Jetstream tablet, along with the new Apple iPad. RealPresence Mobile 1.3 also includes an innovative camera control feature to remotely control the camera on the other end of a video meeting allowing users to zoom in, pan, or tilt the camera to get a better look at the subject or the environment. When combined with Polycom RealPresence Platform, customers can scale to support 10,000 devices. Says Steven Robertson, UC Product Manager at Kathea: “This feature is especially important in many vertical market applications such as healthcare, for more in-depth patient consultations; educational settings, for panning the classroom or zooming in on a speaker or presentation; and manufacturing plants, to closely examine the products on the factory floor. 42
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Sharp launches the ILED70 in South Africa
Extron now shipping DisplayPort switcher
Sharp has officially launched the ILED70 in South Africa the latest interactive LED display solution that makes copying discussion notes a thing of the past using Sharp’s new infrared touchscreen technology. From training and brainstorming to business presentation, interactive working is a proven method for obtaining the best possible results in the minimum amount of time. The new ILED70 Touch Monitor makes it simple to exchange knowledge between several people. With a diagonal screen size of 176.6 cm and full HD resolution of 1920 x 1080 pixels, the display precisely renders every detail. Using its innovative detection software, any changes and comments can be immediately integrated in existing drafts on the monitor and then optionally saved or printed out. “The Interactive LED is much more than a white board, it is a 70” “tablet” in your boardroom.
Extron Electronics is pleased to announce the immediate availability of the SW2 DP two input DisplayPort switcher, and the DP DA2 two output DisplayPort distribution amplifier. They are HDCP compliant, and support data rates up to 10.8 Gbps and computer resolutions up to 2560x1600 @ 60 Hz, including HDTV 1080p/60. The SW2 DP and DP DA2 feature EDID Minder, an Extron-exclusive technology, which maintains continuous EDID communication between connected devices for reliable video content display. The DP DA2 also features Key Minder, an Extron-exclusive technology that continuously authenticates HDCP encryption between all devices, ensuring the simultaneous distribution of source content to both displays. Additionally, dual-mode support on the DP DA2 allows source signals to be distributed to multiple HDMI, DVI, or VGA display devices with appropriate adapters. "The SW2 DP and DP DA2 are among the first DisplayPort switcher and distribution amplifier products for the pro AV industry," says Casey Hall, Vice President of Sales and Marketing for Extron. "These products enable AV system designers to take advantage of DisplayPort technology, delivering exceptional performance in a wide range of AV environments."
Barco expands family of LED video walls Barco has introduced the new OverView M series of LED-lit rear-projection video walls. This new series joins the existing OverView O series, allowing them to offer every customer the video wall solution that best suits his or her needs. The first range of OverView M video wall cubes to hit the market are the 4:3 aspect ratio versions, available with screen diagonals of 60”, 67” and 80”. Widescreen models will become available as well. With the OverView M series, Barco answers the market’s call for industry-standard video walls with good color reliability, image quality, and brightness. This makes this new series the standard video walls for demanding small- to medium-sized control rooms. The series benefits from the many advantages of LED lighting, including long lifetime, low power consumption, and great uptime. Barco’s unique liquid cooling system also greatly reduces the temperature of the LEDs, resulting in a significantly longer LED lifetime. Furthermore, the Sense5 automatic white point and full color calibration system ensures uniformity of color and brightness levels. This system works with an advanced color sensor that continuously measures the primary color levels of the entire wall, and adjusts as necessary.
New Crestron touch-panel creates elegant statement Crestron has announced details of its new 7” surface mount touch-screen, the TSW-750. The designer, edge-to-edge glass touch-panel, provides a space-saving screen with a clean and contemporary appearance and includes Core 3 UI graphics and high-performance video for the ultimate user experience. “Crestron’s new TSW-750 combines technically advanced functionality with a clever and elegant design,” says Robin van Meeuwen, Managing Director at Crestron UK. “A single Cat5 serves up power, control, H.264 video and Rava SIP intercom. It provides a high screen resolution and clear display, within a thin profile screen, making it perfect for the contemporary home or modern office building.” Featuring a brilliant 7 inch capacitive touch screen display and five soft-touch buttons, it delivers the ultimate experience in unobtrusive, space-saving design. 43
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Hitachi introduce CP-AW2519N Ultra Short Throw interactive projector At InfoComm Hitachi introduced the CP-AW2519N Interactive Projector, featuring their proprietary StarBoard Software, which works on Mac and PC platforms. The CPAW2519N Interactive Projector has all the functionality of an interactive whiteboard built into it, eliminating the need for additional hardware. The new CP-AW2519N offers easy setup even in rooms where space is limited, with an ultra-short-throw lens that enables it to be mounted close to a wall or projection surface. This prevents obstructed images and shadows, with no light shining in the presenter’s eyes. The CP-AW2519N also comes with a stand to project the image onto a table-top surface.For better performance, the CP-AW2519N communicates via IR and Ultrasonic technologies. This increases reliability and eliminates lag time from pen to projection for a more natural writing experience.
displayLED’s new MC range impress at InfoComm US sales of the newly launched digiLED MC range of indoor / outdoor modular LED tiles have provided the basis for strong international growth. The range, including mesh and solid versions, was developed following extensive consultation with audio-visual professionals in the USA, and received phenomenal feedback at InfoComm this June. The product has sold over 6,000 tiles in its first four months of availability, and has already been deployed on high profile global productions including Bruce Springsteen’s current world tour, the Black Entertainment Television (BET) Awards in Washington DC and The Donny and Marie Osmond Show. Using high precision components, the screens are manufactured in China to US and European standards and certified by the German standards organisation; the TUV lab. The MC range features mechanically identical tiles with a range of pixel pitches that can be mixed to create screens with higher and lower definition areas. This opens possibilities for creative screen builds with differing sizes of pixel pitch in the same structure.
Next Generation imaging from WolfVision
WolfVision’s VZ-8 Series Visualizers have become a worldwide standard in a large number of universities and enterprises in recent years,
Tightrope amplifies the Carousel Digital Signage experience
and the new fourth generation of this popular Visualizer Series was on show at this year’s InfoComm 2012 in Las Vegas. The new units build on the outstanding success of the existing VZ-8 Series models and now come with an elegant redesigned housing, and feature a superb native 1080p HD camera. The new VZ-8light Visualizer provides all the basic features that every user requires. Besides the native 1080p HD resolution at 30 fps (frames per second), new features include a basic LAN port and HDMI in- and 4output.
The digital signage universe continues to mature in the public eye and at this year’s InfoComm show, Tightrope Media showed off recent developments to its Carousel digital signage system that deliver a richer experience for viewers, and new creative and reporting capabilities for end users. The advances integrate smoothly into the existing Carousel system, retaining its installation- and user-friendly characteristics for systems integrators. The web-centric Carousel solution is renowned for location-based data, delivering weather and other relevant information to local viewers. At InfoComm 2012, Tightrope extends local weather options, supporting multiday forecast creation (up to seven days) and text-based crawls from WeatherBug. Carousel operators can build forecasts with temperature information and graphics to visualize the sun, clouds, rain and other climate conditions. 44
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Christie introduce six new 3LCD projectors Christie used the recent InfoComm show in the USA to launch six new 3LCD projectors across two platforms Designed for small-to-medium sized venues in higher education, houses of worship, corporate environments and government agencies, the newest models are packed with high-end features, yet affordable for various venue applications. They feature both Picture-in-Picture and Pictureby-Picture, allowing end users to display two input signals or video teleconferencing for collaboration. With the lens memory recall, users can to lock-in and quickly recall up to three lens positions for use with multiple protection locations. “Our customers now have the full range of offerings across our 3LCD spectrum,” said Phil Lord, regional sales manager for Christie’s Africa office. “And the ability to have wireless capabilities is something our customers have asked for and Christie has met market needs with this platform.”
Vaddio supports new Canon, Panasonic and Sony cameras During InfoComm Vaddio announced its support of new Canon, Panasonic and Sony PTZ cameras, including the Canon XU-80, Canon XU-80W, Panasonic AW-HE120, Panasonic HE50H, Sony BRC-H900, Sony EVI-D90 and the Sony EVI-D80. All cameras are configured with Vaddio’s cabling systems to deliver high quality video, power and control over standard Cat. 5 cabling. “Vaddio remains committed to supporting the best available camera technologies by developing our ease of installation Cat. 5 systems and CCU packages built around the top cameras in the industry,” explains Tom Mingo, VP of Sales at Vaddio. “In addition to the support for installation of these cameras, Vaddio supports these new models by integrating their control protocols into our complete line of automated and operator controlled systems.”
Mitsubishi now shipping full 7000 Series
LG to dominate commercial display market
Launched at ISE this year, the 7000 Series LCD projectors are designed for applications such as large meeting rooms and lecture theatres, as well as other professional uses such as rental and digital signage. Available in three resolutions, the XL7100U / XL7000U (1024 x 768 pixel XGA), WL7200U / WL7050U (1280 x 800 pixel WXGA) and UL7400U (1920x1200 pixel WUXGA), the 7000 Series projectors offer high-performance and low cost of ownership, together with a number of eco-friendly features. Based around a long-life, inorganic liquid crystal panel, the 7000 Series offers an impressive light output of up to 6000 Lumens at 2000:1 contrast ratio. Lamp life of up to 4,000 hours and less than 0.3W power consumption in standby mode makes the 7000 Series economical to own and run. Mitsubishi has combined a number of performanceenhancing innovations to deliver a very high quality image.
LG Electronics has launched its extensive LED display products. These new LED displays offer noticeably reduced total cost of ownership (TCO) through innovative software and impressive energy savings of approximately 30% relative to conventional LED displays. “LG’s display products are ideal for enterprise customers looking for versatile display solutions for use in numerous types of locations and conditions, whether indoors or outdoors,” says D.Y. Kim, President of LG Electronics Gulf FZE. “Also, we have brought down the total cost of ownership through the application of new software and energy saving technologies.” The foremost benefit of LG’s LED products is the reduced TCO through a combination of unmatched energy savings and a range of new features. Through LG’s Smart Energy Saving technology, LG’s LED displays consume approximately 30% less electricity than other LED displays.
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SACIA launch regional chapter for KwaZulu Natal
Nelson Baumgratz named InfoComm Educator of the Year InfoComm has presented its “Educator of the Year” Award to Nelson Baumgratz, CTS-D. The award was presented during InfoComm 2012, the largest professional audiovisual and information communications trade show worldwide, held at the Las Vegas Convention Center in Las Vegas, Nevada. Nelson has been an AV professional for more than 30 years, specializing in diverse areas from transmitter design and manufacturing, to IT consulting and systems design. He currently runs and
During July SACIA hosted regional networking events for members based in KwaZulu Natal and the Western Cape. Attendance at both events was very positive and in Natal, local members have formed a provincial chapter to promote the adoption of professional standards on a local basis. The local chapter is chaired by Gerrie Coetzee from
co-owns EAV – Engenharia Audiovisual, an AV engineering design company located in Brazil. He has been a member of InfoComm University faculty since 2008, teaching dozens of classes throughout Latin America. He also consults to SACIA and has delivered regular courses for us in South Africa. He serves as a faculty advisor at FAPCOM, a technology and communication school in São Paulo, Brazil, and is helping to develop a two-year technical degree based on InfoComm curricula.
SACIA expand influence to broader communications industry
Ethics workshop scheduled for 5 October
At SACIA’s annual Board retreat held in June it was decided that we should reinforce our commitment to promoting ethical business practices in the communications industry. We’re currently working with members to develop a code of ethical business practice and have asked the South African Ethics Institute to assist in developing a formal programme that is specifically relevant to our
Electrosonic and is looking to engage with the local business community in order to raise SACIA’s profile in the province. “We have a thriving AV industry in KwaZulu Natal and it’s critical that we play an active role in promoting standards,” says Gerrie. “We also need to build strong lines of communication with our industry colleagues around the country.”
industry. On 5 October we’re hosting a networking breakfast in Johannesburg that will focus on ethics within our industry and we’re asking members to come prepared with examples of ethical conflict they’ve experienced within their business activities. Any members who would prefer to communicate this information confidentially are invited to liase directly with Kris Dobie at the Ethics Institute on Kris@ethicssa.org. “EthicsSA is committed to stimulating and advancing awareness of ethics in South Africa and also in other countries on the African continent where we are active,” explains Kris.
At the SACIA Board retreat held in June, Bruce Genricks was elected chairman of the Association until 2014. He takes over from Gary Atkins CTS-D who has served as chairman since the Association was established in 2010. "I have thoroughly enjoyed my two years as chairman of the Association and am pleased at the progress we've made in promoting the adoption of professional standards in the broadcast and professional AV industry," says Gary. "I will continue to support Bruce and the new Board as they continue in their quest for 46
truth, honesty and the pursuit of excellence in all aspects of the audio visual profession." Bruce is the managing member of Electrosonic SA and has served on the SACIA Board since it was established. "I feel really honoured to have been elected by the board, and will strive to continue the excellent work that Gary has done over the past two years. Having done the ground work in establishing SACIA, we now need to carry the momentum into the next phase. I am confident that together with Kevan and the rest of the board, and with the assistance of the members of SACIA, we can create even more value for our members," says Bruce. Other Board members are Wynand Langenhoven, Thys Venter, Sobi Mokholo, Elaine Shellard and Kevan Jones.
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Broadcast Workflows course takes off Over the last few months Leith Murgai has been a regular visitor to South Africa. He’s presenting the IABM’s new 2day “Broadcast Technology Workflows” course that’s proved to be such a hit with the local broadcast industry. Over the last three months we’ve had almost 60 people through the programme and it’s set to run again in Johannesburg on 2-3 October. Delegates have come from the broadcast and supply-side of the industry and we continue to get positive feedback. From a vendor perspective currently representing IP Video
streaming solutions, I had a unique perspective from which to attend the course,” said David Sales, product manager at Kathea. “I found the course to be a very enlightening and an eye opening window into the world of broadcasting. The Course provided me with a good overview of the industry with its associated best practises and future trends. I would especially like to compliment the presenter Leith Gill Murgai for the way in which he delivered the content from his wealth of experience and expertise in the broadcast industry. Well worth the investment.”
Training for staging and live events Members of SACIA involved in providing products and services to the staging and live events industry have formed a task group to explore opportunities to deliver training to this niche sector. We’ve had some initial discussions with a number of local and international stakeholders, and will be meeting with PLASA representatives to talk about the UK’s National Rigging Certificate and its relevance in the South African market. A
Getting the most from your AV install team
On our way to IBC
During September SACIA will be joining the International Association of Broadcast Manufacturers at the annual IBC show in Amsterdam. “Over the last year we’ve developed a close working relationship and hosted many IABM courses in South Africa,” says SACIA’s executive director Kevan Jones. “During IBC the Association will be launching four new training
courses aimed at the broadcast sector and we’re planning to present these to the market in South Africa during early 2013.” The IABM is one of 8 founders of the IBC convention – they’ve positioned themselves as the authoritative voice of the broadcast industry and seek to support member companies via a range of benefits, discounts, events, advisory services and training. The IABM also operates a series of awards programmes to recognise technological innovation and provide financial support for young broadcast engineers which are designed to stimulate the development of our industry on an international basis.
number of riggers from Gearhouse South Africa have recently undergone their final assessment as NRC rigging supervisors – level 3. Managing Director, Ofer Lapid explains that “the UK has always been a mentorship for the live events industry. It’s important to keep our standards current alongside Europe and this is one way to achieve this,” he says. Anyone interested in joining this task group is welcome to contact kevan@sacia.org.za
SACIA has commissioned Mark Hull from SMYP to develop a structured training programme for AV installers in South Africa. The course will be based on international standards and industry bestpractice, and will be backed up by a SACIA-recognised certification programme. “We are currently working with the MICT SETA to develop a sector skills plan for our 47
industry,” says SACIA executive director Kevan Jones. “Leading service providers are contributing their energy to moving this process forward and we envisage running our first course during Q1 2013.” In a recent survey amongst SACIA members, the skills shortage in the AV install sector was identified as the major drawback to growth in our market. “The Dept of Manpower has defined training and skills development as a key objective and we’re planning to work closely with government agencies to ensure we deliver training that is relevant, timeous and affordable,” says Kevan.
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Christie sets up new African office in Johannesburg Christie has announced the opening of a new office in South Africa — its first in the Southern hemisphere.
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pened during June, the new office underpins the company’s long commitment to the territory. It will provide facilities for demonstrations, customer and Partner training, as well as inventory management. The move has been in the planning for almost a year, and Dale Miller, Christie EMEA Vice President, said: “Over the last 3 years we have been working to develop the right relationships to grow our business. As an organisation we invest heavily in training and believe this lies at the heart of quality service and support. So we look to the same commitments from our Partners.” He adds, “Just over a year ago Stage Audio Works put their service team through our advanced level service training to become Christie’s first Certified Partner in South Africa. In addition to their investment in a significant spares and product inventory, Stage Audio Works went and took the Christie training they had received to their own customers both in South Africa and in Africa. That’s when we knew we were ready to make additional investments. And we are looking forward to developing further programmes with Stage Audio Works and other like-minded Partners.”
time to add extra resources.” The new operation will be based in Fourways, Gauteng. Alongside office and service facilities, it will provide larger space for product demonstrations, training and storage of critical spares inventory for our Partners to draw on. As with other Christie branch offices, Christie Africa will offer an open door policy to Partners and customers who can use the facilities for their own customer meetings.
Central hub for business
Heading the operation as Territory Manager, Africa, will be Phil Lord, a 12year veteran of Christie, who has spent half that time in South Africa. “Christie is committed and dedicated to supporting the African market,” he says. “And with the help of our Partners we have been growing the business for some time. We all felt there were additional commercial opportunities that could be realised by further Christie investment and now is the
Phil Lord confirms that logistically, Johannesburg represents the obvious base. “It is the ‘central hub’ for business in South Africa and the best location for supporting the Africa territories.” Christie believes that the African market has massive growth potential over the next ten years, and investing in local resources and training now will ensure that Christie will be well placed to enjoy the benefits of that expansion over a longer term, and establish Christie as a major player within the African continent.” The advantages of creating a dedicated Christie office are self-evident. “We will be able to offer local technical and customer support as well as quick response times to our trusted Partners and end users — with more efficient service” continues Lord, who will be supported by experienced office manager Annalise Hodgson, as well as a local technical 48
engineering resource, in addition to Christie’s extensive, global service resources. Christie, through its existing Partner network, including Stage Audio Works, will sell, service and support the African continent (as far as Egypt) including the Indian Ocean and Israel, the only exceptions being the Frenchspeaking North African countries, which will be managed by the Christie office in France. “Trusted Partners like Stage Audio Works has been putting a tremendous amount of time and effort to educate the market in the last couple of years, and the opening of the Christie new office in South Africa will only reinforce the flourishing business relationship with this loyal, cornerstone Partner in the region.” Lord concludes. Commenting on the new office, Gustav Barnard, Stage Audio Works Technical and Education Manager said: “Our position as a distributor of professional AV equipment is key within South Africa and the African continent. We have contributed to develop the Christie brand in the region to a diverse range of customers by providing them the technical support they need, holding product stock and offering real value-added solutions including financing and Stage Plus flightcases for a gig-ready package. We are looking forward to having Christie on board locally to support us and strengthen our position further.
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