The Virtual Truck is designed for live sports, music, corporate events, and esports. It utilizes the same technology as ASG’s VPCR(Virtual Production Control Room), providing a multi-camera, live switch, control room environment.

Technology and Integration

The solution leverages high bandwidth IP transmission for on-site cameras, feeding directly into encoders for IP transport into cloud solutions. It integrates technologies from cloud providers such as AWS and GCP and features tools from industry leaders like Vizrt, Gallery Sienna, Audinate, Telos, Solid State Logic, and Grass Valley.

Features and Specifications

ASG’s Virtual Truck features a 44-input, 8 M/E switcher, 8 channels of replay, flexible HTML5 or dedicated graphics station, 64-stereo, 44 bus return, AES67 compatible audio, and a multi-channel beltpack and IFB comms system for cloud to/from on-site communications. Surella, ASG’s first camera and contribution truck partner, provides HD and 4K camera and support vehicles that seamlessly integrate with ASG Virtual Trucks.

Industry Impact

ASG President, Dave Van Hoy, emphasizes that the Virtual Truck democratizes live production by reducing the reliance on costly, location-bound hardware. The virtual solution offers greater flexibility and cost savings compared to traditional physical trucks.

Operational Benefits

The software-defined solutions and virtualized infrastructure allow for quick configuration to meet changing production needs. The Virtual Truck can deliver content for customers or private viewing stations without additional satellite uplink, supporting multiple program versions and streaming formats to platforms like YouTube and Facebook.

Support and Expertise

ASG’s expert team, led by Chief Cloud Officer Claudia Souza, provides comprehensive support from setup to deployment and maintenance. The Cloud Team has extensive experience in engineering and deploying cloud-based systems.

Ease of Use

The Virtual Truck’s software-defined workflows mimic traditional production methods, ensuring a smooth transition for technical artists and operators. The solution reduces the carbon footprint associated with live production by minimizing crew travel, gear shipment, and power consumption.

ASG’s Virtual Truck represents a significant advancement in cloud-based remote production, offering a flexible, cost-effective alternative to traditional broadcast components while supporting the industry’s transition to software-defined workflows.