FOR-A, a well-established video broadcast technology company with over 50 years of experience, has supplied key technology for a new outside broadcast unit commissioned by Production Crew.
The truck was designed and built by Dubai-based systems integrator, El Baba Smart Technology.
Expansion of Sports Coverage in Saudi Arabia
The new broadcast unit will operate primarily in Saudi Arabia, responding to the rapid increase in sports coverage in the region. A critical requirement for the truck was the ability to produce high-quality 4K Ultra HD television, making 12G-SDI infrastructure a priority for the project.
Selection of FOR-A for 12G-SDI Technology
Production Crew opted for a simple and secure 12G-SDI infrastructure over IP connectivity to maintain reliability. After evaluating several key vendors with El Baba, they chose FOR-A due to its strong support for 12G-SDI, which enables a more compact system architecture.
Key Equipment: FOR-A HVS-6000 Switcher and MFR-4100 Router
At the core of the truck’s system is the FOR-A HVS-6000 production switcher, paired with the HVS-3355OUA control panel. This configuration provides operators with up to four M/E banks and 80 inputs, along with customizable macros, DVEs, and graphics layering capabilities. The panel’s layout is designed for ergonomic ease, ensuring efficient operation during live productions.
The truck also features the FOR-A MFR-4100 router, which supports 12G-SDI natively and can be configured with up to 72 x 72 inputs and outputs. Signal conversion and distribution are handled by the FOR-A USF modular system, which accommodates 12 cards in a 2RU rack, offering 12G distribution amplifiers with integrated video and audio processing.
Practical Advantages for Live Production
Shady Mokdad, Managing Director of Production Crew, explained that the company chose the FOR-A HVS-6000 for its flexibility and creative production options. Mokdad also highlighted the multiviewer functionality integrated into the switcher, which saves valuable rack space on board the truck.
Seamless Integration with Other Equipment
Ihab El Baba, Managing Director of El Baba Smart Technology, emphasized that the goal of the new truck was to achieve world-class sports coverage using reliable hardware. The decision to create a 12G native environment was based on FOR-A’s capabilities in this area. The system works seamlessly with other 12G native equipment, including Ikegami cameras.
El Baba also noted the strong local support from FOR-A’s team in Dubai, which was helpful throughout the project, from the initial discussions to the final commissioning.
Regional Support and Commitment to 12G Solutions
FOR-A’s Regional Manager for the Middle East and Africa, Mohammed Abu Ziyadeh, pointed out that FOR-A’s products are gaining recognition in the region for their creative features and ease of use. He also emphasized the benefits of FOR-A’s 12G solutions, such as the HVS-6000, which supports high-resolution workflows and ensures reliable video quality. Ziyadeh expressed excitement for the future success of Production Crew with this advanced equipment.
About FOR-A
FOR-A is a company specializing in professional video and broadcast technology, with over 50 years of experience in the industry. The company offers a range of products for live production, including video switchers, routing switchers, and processing systems. Their equipment is widely used for broadcasting sports, live events, and other professional video applications.
News source: FOR-A
