The project, managed by BBC Technology’s Consulting & Projects division, involved Stagetec in the design, manufacture and installation of a complete DMX network running throughout the studio. A total of 148 DMX outlets were installed by Stagetec, dotted around the studio in custom made socket boxes. These were wired back to patch panels located at grid level in the roof and in the new control area. Eight IES 10-way DMX splitters were mounted in the patch cabinets to provide DMX distribution with the existing analogue dimmers retained. Stagetec then installed 552 channels of Compulite demultiplexers in the dimmer room so these can be driven, via a DMX control, from the studio’s existing Galaxy console. A Compulite 48-channel multiplexer was also installed in the control room to enable the existing analogue effects desk to be incorporated into the system.
Stagetec also incorporated an LSC Softlink unit in the control room, complete with a geographical patch to provide full electronic patching of all DMX signals. The TC3 project also involved Stagetec in the design and manufacture of a new lighting test panel on the studio floor, installation of a new rigger’s control, remote monitor cables and new emergency ‘off’ indicators.
The project was managed by Stagetec’s projects manager Matt Miles and the refurbished studio was immediately put into use for Top of the Pops.
(Ruth Rossington)
