Megahertz Broadcast Systems (MHz), in association with its local partner Mustafa Sultan, has announced that it has been awarded a contract for the build of a new outside broadcast unit for Oman TV. The UK-based independent systems integrator is now in the process of building the expanding articulated vehicle, which will be capable of handling […]
Megahertz Broadcast Systems (MHz), in association with its local partner Mustafa Sultan, has announced that it has been awarded a contract for the build of a new outside broadcast unit for Oman TV. The UK-based independent systems integrator is now in the process of building the expanding articulated vehicle, which will be capable of handling 3Gb/s signals for 1080/50p production. It is also fitted with high performance air conditioning to ensure staff comfort in the high temperatures experienced in Oman in mid-summer.
The 13m trailer has a single expanding side and will host 12 Sony cameras, two providing super slow-motion, plus an extra camera on a Links wireless system with remote control. The cameras all use fibre connectivity, and the order includes a range of Canon outside broadcast lenses (up to x95), Sachtler supports and Egripment sports dollies and tracks.
The production area has a Sony MVS-8000 production switcher and two six-channel EVS XT[3] servers. Comprehensive graphics capability is provided by Vizrt, including Viz Arena graphics linked to a Vinten precision tracking head. The audio area features a Lawo mixer. Sony OLED monitors are fed by Harris Broadcast multiviewers, and Harris Broadcast is also providing the router, infrastructure and measurement equipment. SPGs are by Trilogy. The vehicle is also equipped with an Advent NewSwift 1.2m Ku-band motorised and fully automatic satellite antenna.
Because of the potential for extremely high temperatures, the unit features a unique design element: the main cable termination panel is not on the outside of the truck but in a walk-in compartment which is individually air-conditioned. This means that riggers can connect up the truck in relative comfort. The air conditioning system throughout the truck has a high level of redundancy and significantly over rated to maintain cool environments for both operators and equipment.
Alongside the trailer Megahertz is providing a tender in a 9m fixed axle vehicle. As well as carrying equipment and cables this vehicle also has a small air-conditioned workshop and monitoring area to support the units engineers.
This project for Oman TV is a clear demonstration that nothing beats experience when it comes to designing outside broadcast units, said Steve Burgess, Technical Director of Megahertz Broadcast Systems. What we have is an advanced production platform, in a vehicle which is very carefully tailored for the specific requirements of the user. Details like providing special protection for rigging make all the difference when it comes to day-to-day operations. As a specialist in OB design and build, it is that level of attention that we bring, which is why our projects are so successful.
Oman TV placed the order with Mustafa Sultanand Megahertz Broadcast Systems in December 2012, and both the outside broadcast trailer and its tender were delivered to Oman in August 2013.
