Mayweather-Pacquiao: Live pre-fight TV5 coverage via Aviwest DMNG

Pre-coverage of the Mayweather vs. Pacquiao boxing match, which took place May 2 in Las Vegas, was streamed live to viewers in the Philippines via Aviwest’s DMNG PRO180 3G/4G video uplink system. Using the digital mobile newsgathering solution, multiple Filipino broadcasters, including TV5, were able to transmit HD video about the sporting event over 3G/4G networks while maintaining superior signal quality, despite congested network conditions.

“Manny Pacquiao is considered a national hero in his home country, the Philippines, so we knew there would be a large demand to watch his training preparation and daily life in Los Angeles, as well as interviews from Las Vegas, prior to the fight. As many broadcasters would be on hand to capture the event, we needed a solution that is easy to use and capable of supporting a wide range of networks,” said Bong E Lopez, head of news engineering, TV5. “Aviwest’s live video hybrid contribution platform is compact and lightweight, making it easy to move around within the tight confines of a sports arena. By enabling us to send live broadcast-quality video over bonded IP networks, the DMNG PRO180 guaranteed a flawless entertainment experience for Filipino TV viewers.”

The DMNG PRO180 features up to 10 cellular connections, including eight 3G/4G internal modems with high-efficiency custom antenna arrays, two USB interfaces, and a built-in Wi-Fi modem. Leveraging Aviwest SafeStreams technology, the DMNG PRO180 assures the delivery of live transmissions even in the midst of unpredictable cellular network conditions. Each unit comes equipped with an H.264 video encoder that enables broadcasters like TV5 to stream live HD video in the most efficient manner possible with minimal delay. 

Weighing about 1 kg, the portable DMNG PRO180 can be easily connected to any professional camera, whether SD/HD SDI, analogue, or HDMI, and mounted via V-Mount, Gold Mount, or PAG plates. Through a touch-screen interface, operators can configure and operate the system as well as communicate with the studio through the IFB return channel. By providing broadcasters with a video uplink system that is easy to transport and use, the DMNG PRO speeds up newsgathering operations.