To provide the broadcast infrastructure and the signal distribution backbone, the German specialist for real-time networks installed a comprehensive system that distributed 70 HD/SD-SDI video signals, 1,200 audio signals and 734 communications ports. A total of 70 MediorNet mainframes were used to integrate the various positions and departments into a single system, including the TV compound, commentator positions and the press centre.
MediorNet was responsible for transporting the broadcast signals to the OB trucks and distributing the video signals within the arena, for example to the monitors on various visitor floors, the video walls, as well as the greenroom and the commentator booths.
"MediorNet's network approach allowed us to keep full flexibility regarding the signal distribution and allowed us to monitor the complete installation", said Simon Korzen, project director for the ESC at Riedel Communications.
"It was one of EBU's and NDR's major demands to provide a flexible redundancy concept. With our MediorNet system we were not only able to provide a reliable system but we could also install everything very quickly and with a lot less effort than a solution over copper would have required."
Around 1,200 audio signals were transported via MediorNet and RockNet during the event. To distribute the wireless microphone signals from the splitter world to the FOH, the monitor mix or the amp racks, an elaborated RockNet installation with connections to the MediorNet system was used.
The digital and analog outputs of the Sennheiser wireless receivers were used independently to feed an analogue and a digital RockNet module. In this way hardware redundancy was achieved at the earliest stage. RockNet expansion cards for digital Yamaha mixing consoles integrated the Yamaha PM5D consoles at the FOH and the monitor consoles into the audio network. The connections to amp racks in the ceiling and to the OB trucks in the TV compound were realized via MediorNet and RockNet links.
A total of 48 commentator booths were used for broadcasting the event. Each booth was equipped with a Riedel Artist CCP-1116 commentary control panel. These panels were just recently launched in the broadcast market at this year's NAB in April. An elaborate combination of Riedel Artist and MediorNet systems was used to set up the commentary infrastructure.
All important positions at the event, from the director to the follow spot operators, were integrated into a comprehensive communications infrastructure including Riedel Artist digital matrix intercom, Riedel Performer digital partyline as well as digital and analog radio systems. The distribution of this infrastructure was taken care of by Riedel Artist and MediorNet, translating into significant savings of time and effort during setup and installation. A Riedel Juggler interface and various Riedel RiFace modules integrated the radio infrastructure directly into the wired communications system. This allowed every unit of the 500 mobile TETRA radios to easily communicate directly with dedicated intercom ports and vice versa.
For more on the 2011 ESC, see the June issue of LSI Magazine.
(Jim Evans)
