Configured to accurately replicate a full, professional production facility, the 64-port Gemini intercom system is deployed at the university's state-of-the-art Media Centre.
Based at the newly opened Parkside Building, the Media Centre is home to the largest broadcast facility in the UK's university sector, featuring four television studios, including a dedicated 2000 sq ft Green Screen studio, one of the largest in the UK. In addition to the TV studios the Gemini intercom system connects six radio studios and other technical areas such as sound recording studios, post-production facilities and editing suites, a colour grading suite, 4k screening facilities and hundreds of PC and Apple-based multimedia workstations.
Supplied and installed by broadcast technology and services supplier CVP, Gemini is a distributed matrix intercom system that combines a full-access, programme quality audio network with IP connectivity. Importantly, the distributed matrix architecture greatly improves resilience and reduces installation costs.
CVP Systems manager Stuart Currie said, "Gemini ticks all the boxes. It's a flexible and reliable intercom system that not only works as it should, but enables Birmingham City University students to accurately experience the use of intercom systems in a professional environment."
The Gemini intercom matrix installed at Birmingham City University is comprised of 22 16-key control panels and five eight-key desktop panels across the four studios. The Trilogy-supplied system also includes several rings of two-wire belt packs for floor managers and lighting control.
System configuration is performed using Trilogy's Gateway software which operates in a simple Windows environment and provides limitless ability for Birmingham City University to build, modify and save multiple databases to suit any operational requirement.
Currie added, "All of the Birmingham City University trainees have commented on the Gateway software's easy-to-learn functionality, which greatly accelerates the learning process. Trilogy has clearly thought Gemini through and built in ease of use from the start."
Trilogy's Director of Business Development Mark Ellis said, "This is one of a long line of educational facilities that have opted for our technology. Birmingham City University's media training facilities are amongst the finest in the country and we are pleased that the next generation of broadcast and film technicians, engineers and producers are gaining first-hand skills and experience with intercom technology that they will carry on using in their professional careers."
(Jim Evans)
