NAB 2013: Cobham Broadcast’s MediaMesh set for NAB debut

RF specialist Cobham is introducing MediaMesh, a new IP-based platform for rapid set-up field newsrooms, to the American market at NAB 2013. MediaMesh utilises innovative wireless technology that removes traditional restrictions on live production to enable journalists working remotely to quickly establish everything required for a live broadcast.

The transmission system includes: a broadcast quality path for live two-ways; remote camera control; high quality file transfer; and a high-capacity internet connection with access to base newsroom computers and cell phones. The package is designed to fit within a single, easily transported, case that can be unpacked and made operational in minutes.

The MediaMesh system takes advantage of Ka-band satellite uplinks. According to Cobham’s Broadcast Systems Director, Stuart Brown: “The launch of high capacity Ka-band ‘broadband-over-satellite’ services means that dishes of less than one meter in diameter can be used to transmit genuine HD live video, which has not been possible before. Our MediaMesh satellite antenna, at only 75cm in diameter, is compatible with all major Ka-band services and is one of only two antennas currently approved by Inmarsat for their new Ka-band-based, superfast Global Xpress satellite broadband service, which is being launched this year.”

The fact that MediaMesh is an IP-based platform means that file transfer, internet/email access and access to newsroom IT facilities can be part of a single package. Equipment and satellite time are also said to be significantly less expensive than traditional DSNG systems.

The rest of the MediaMesh system uses Cobham’s COFDM mesh technology to provide wireless connectivity to, for example, journalist’s laptops and can even provide a micro-cell for cell-phone coverage.

Brown adds: “MediaMesh enables broadcasters to ensure that whenever and wherever news breaks, a journalist can be reporting from the scene with solid, stable images in less time than it takes to make a coffee. In fact, they can set up, then make a coffee, with time to spare.”