Broadcast Solutions, a prominent European media systems integrator, in partnership with NEP Germany, a leading broadcast facilities provider, has developed a sophisticated remote production environment for Dyn Media, a new sports network. Managed by NEP Germany, this system is designed to serve Dyn Media’s diverse sporting events.
Dyn Media, envisioned by Christian Seifert, the ex-CEO of Bundesliga, in collaboration with Axel Springer, aims to offer German fans a unique platform for various sports including basketball, handball, volleyball, and table tennis. This initiative is part of a plan to enhance the visibility and popularity of these sports through high-quality streaming services.
Remote Production and Venue Kits
The production approach is primarily remote. Broadcast Solutions has constructed six “venue kits,” which include a core rack in a flight case connected to three stage boxes over fiber. These kits, equipped with standard SMPTE ST 2110 equipment, can be transported and set up by a minimal crew using a single VW Crafter van, significantly reducing costs and environmental impact.
Centralized Control Rooms and Network Operations Centre
The signals from these kits are transmitted to NEP Germany’s central facilities in Munich. Here, two large control rooms have been established with Grass Valley Kula switchers. A Network Operation Centre (NOC) in Munich oversees the management of signal transmission, ensuring efficient operation and distribution to various platforms.
Flexibility and Control of Audio Production
Audio at event venues is managed remotely from sound quality control rooms, with the processed audio sent to the production control rooms. Dyn Media also offers flexibility in commentator arrangements, including options for off-the-tube commentary.
Shared Facilities in Munich and Cologne
Dyn Media, headquartered in Cologne, shares its production hardware with the Munich installation. This setup allows the editorial team to operate in either city with identical functionality, optimizing costs and energy use.
Comprehensive Design and Installation by Broadcast Solutions
NEP Germany and Broadcast Solutions collaboratively designed the entire system. Broadcast Solutions was responsible for the full installation and commissioning in both Munich and Cologne. This included not only audio and video equipment but also other critical infrastructure like air conditioning, fire protection, and power backup systems.
Leadership Perspectives
Zlatan Gavran, NEP Germany’s managing director, emphasized the innovative approach and comprehensive technical operations entrusted to them by Dyn Media. Andreas Heyden, CEO of Dyn Media, acknowledged Broadcast Solutions’ significant role in establishing their advanced production environment. Rainer Kampe, CTO of Broadcast Solutions, highlighted the challenging timeline and the satisfaction in contributing to Dyn Media’s launch.
