SVGE FutureSport 2014: determining the trends set to shape sports broadcasting

More than 170 people attended the last SVG Europe technology summit of 2014 [image: James Cumpsty]

After a scene-setting introduction from SVG Europe executive editor Fergal Ringrose, a Sky team comprising Robin Broomfield, Chris Johns and Keith Lane discussed the lessons learned during the broadcaster’s live 4K trial conducted at the recent Ryder Cup. Exclusive content was shown during the session, a full report on which can be read here: https://www.svgeurope.org/blog/headlines/svge-futuresport-2014-sky-sports-outlines-advances-delivered-by-ryder-cup-4k-trial/.

A returning speaker to SVGE events, Devoncroft Partners’ principal analyst Josh Stinehour delivered a far-reaching presentation on emerging broadcast technology trends. Remote production, Ultra HD and multi-platform delivery were among the topics covered during a session that drew on extracts from the influential IABM Global Market Valuation Report.

The extent to which IP delivery can transform sports broadcast was the focus of two related sessions. BBD R&D lead engineer IP studio project Peter Brightwell and DYVI Live general manager Philippe Van Walle discussed progress towards true interoperability, whilst in the second session representatives of Calrec, Lawo, Clear-Com, Riedel and Telos Alliance explored the specific benefits of audio over IP.

Audio remained in the spotlight after a networking break with Rob France, senior product marketing manager at Dolby, discussing the company’s current work on object-based audio. The result, says France, will be a further heightening of broadcaster’s ability to deliver personalised audio experiences to fans at home; full report here: https://www.svgeurope.org/blog/headlines/svge-futuresport-2014-dolby-and-the-rise-of-object-based-audio/.

The day was closed out with three far-reaching panel sessions. Personnel from Broadcast-Solutions GmbH, EVS, I-MOVIX and Broadcast Rental discussed the latest innovations in ultra-slow motion replay technology. A full report on the session will be posted on SVG Europe tomorrow.

A team drawn from Cobham Broadcast, Broadcast RF, LiveU and Vislink discussed the rewards and frequency challenges associated with deploying wireless cameras, while personnel from Presteigne Broadcast Hire, Riot Games, Production Associates and IMG Media examined likely sports broadcast highlights of 2015.

Detailed reports of these – and all other – sessions will appear on SVG Europe over the next few days.