The OB project was handled by local systems integrator and contractor GENTEC, who is also TSL Products' partner in KSA.
Saudi Broadcasting Authority (SBA) has deployed TSL’s audio monitoring and broadcast control solutions for two of its OB trucks through GENTEC, a local systems integrator (SI) and contractor for telecommunications, electronics and computer projects. The SI has previously completed projects successfully across Saudi Arabia and is a trusted partner of TSL Products in the Kingdom.
For the first time in Saudi TV history, this OB project was undertaken within the Kingdom rather than being outsourced to EU-based distributors, thereby reducing the project’s cost by 45%. GENTEC provided TSL’s TM1-MK2+ TallyMan Advanced Broadcast Control units and AMU1-3G audio monitoring units for each of SBA’s new OB trucks.
The first van needed to be modified, refurbished and redesigned from an old, three-camera SD and microwave system to a nine-camera (wired for 12 cameras) 3G system with super slow-motion capability for sports production. The second van has a five-camera (wired for eight) 3G system, also with slow motion for sports production. Both the TM1-MK2+ and AMU1-3G units were used in the two trucks and, after some configuration and integration of the multi-viewers and routers, the vans were ready for use.
Deploying an independent control system has allowed SBA operators to manage solutions from various manufacturers without limitation, providing them with the opportunity to choose best-of-breed products. TSL’s virtual panels ‘overlay’ these systems to provide an easy-to-operate visual representation of complex routing systems, signal flows, device control, tallies or technical information displays. In addition to virtual device triggers, TSL’s virtual panels provide SBA with granular control of device functions, allowing engineers to build intricate power controls that suit specific operations. The ability to view and control tally functions over an IP network, located anywhere is especially beneficial for SBA during live sport production, as it speeds up set-up and operator workflow.
“This was an exceptional project as it was the first time in Saudi TV history that was completed in a local market—which was a huge achievement during these times of travel restrictions,” commented Karim Gad, Head of TV Broadcast Department at GENTEC.
“Thanks to TSL’s revolutionary solutions, we are able to have all tally signal managed through a single unit (the TM1-MK2+) on each of the two new vans. The integration and installation process were seamless, and TSL has been a huge support along the way.”
