TV Asahi deploys TVU Networks solution for localised live coverage of The Open

Japanese broadcaster TV Asahi supplemented the host broadcaster’s world feed coverage of The Open Championship using two TVU Remote Production Systems (RPS). Synchronised signals from the venue were sent over IP networks for production at TV Asahi studios in Tokyo.

Using two TVU RPS systems, TV Asahi was able to deliver unique coverage, catered to the specific tastes of its audience. A total of 12 synchronised signals were sent from the UK’s Royal St George’s golf course to the TV Asahi studios. The signals included coverage such as: wireless cameras from the golf course; locally switched signals of Japanese players in action; multiple camera angles from each hole; and the host broadcaster’s world feed backup and world feed preview.

With each signal synchronised, TV Asahi was able to produce scenes that easily transitioned from golfer to golfer and hole to hole – a critical element of live golf production.

“We created a localised feed that we knew our viewers would appreciate,” said Itaru Takata at the equipment & operation management centre of TV Asahi. “TVU RPS allowed us to enrich our programming with feeds targeting our audience. Our audience got to enjoy cheering on the tournament leaders and all of the Japanese players.”

Using the public internet instead of satellite or dedicated fibre saved considerable expense for the broadcaster. The production also required less crew and equipment than what’s needed with a typical mobile truck scenario. “The set up greatly reduced the equipment and the staff at the event, which was a key consideration, given tight COVID restrictions in the UK, Japan and the rest of the world,” added Takata.

“Given that TV Asahi first used TVU RPS last September for coverage of the US Open Golf Championship, we’re thrilled that they’ve embraced the technology so thoroughly in such a short time,” said Kap Shin, head of global services, TVU Networks. “Our solution significantly reduced TV Asahi’s expenses, equipment and staffing required while securing multiple signal synchronisation over IP, resilient transmission and pristine broadcast quality. We look forward to seeing how TV Asahi continues to use TVU RPS.”