OnCall, TVU Networks Showcase Hybrid Satellite/Cellular Uplink Vehicle
On Call Communications and TVU Networks will showcase a hybrid satellite/cellular uplink ENG vehicle at NAB 2013. The ENG vehicle, which is currently being used in the field by WSAZ in Huntington, West Virginia, will be on display at the show in On Call Communications’ outdoor booth, number OE504.
The joint solution combines TVUPack 3G/4G cellular uplink solutions with the On Call QuickSPOT broadcast satellite system to deliver simple operation, superior reliability and the flexibility to capture live video from any location for live newsgathering in the field. Using the TVUPack’s ability to simultaneously transmit IP video over any combination of 3G, 4G, WiFi, microwave or satellite data connections, this hybrid system can start transmission of a live HD signal before the satellite dish is deployed. Once the dish is locked onto the satellite network, the system will fully utilize the available satellite bandwidth to deliver a more resilient transmission and picture.
“The ability to quickly and efficiently broadcast live video is a competitive differentiator for Gray stations,” says Jim Ocon, vice president of technology, Gray Television. “The combination of TVUPack with QuickSPOT has been used by a number of Gray stations in the field, and has been a powerful, proven newsgathering tool for our field crews. The solution is flexible, easy to use and gives us outstanding picture quality from practically any location – even in challenging network environments. Over the next year, we plan to equip a majority of our 36 stations with these solutions.”
On Call’s automated IP satellite system, QuickSPOT, provides a perfect backup or primary data connection for in-field newsgathering because of the reliable, dedicated satellite bandwidth, super fast setup and on-demand satellite service access. On Call owns, manages and operates the satellite network and supports it 24/7/365 with experienced engineers so news crews have a direct connection to network control should an issue arise. Access to the satellite network occurs in five minutes with the push of a single button. Satellite alignment, cross-pol and network access are fully automated without the need for coordination with a satellite operator’s network control center.
Already in use by hundreds of leading broadcast organizations around the world, the TVUPack family of products gives broadcasters satellite and microwave TV truck functionality in a lightweight, portable and untethered form. TVUPack is the original one button operation backpack, is simple to use and provides broadcasters with low-latency, HD-quality signal that enables them to broadcast live at any time and from any location. The TVUPack family of products has been used to deliver professional-quality live HD footage of a number of important events around the world including the World Cup, the London Olympics, U.S. presidential elections, Hurricane Sandy, and the 2013 Papal conclave.