Broadcast Solutions set SNG fleet up for rt1.tv
According to OB manufacturer, multiple highly efficient reporter vans has been delivered to German production company rt1.tv
German production company rt1.tv. has received two of four new reporter vans as part of an expansion of its fleet and delivered by Broadcast Solutions, European media systems integration group.
Two have been delivered already, to replace life-expired vehicles in the fleet. Based on VW Transporter vans, they are designed to be self-sufficient and as environmentally friendly as possible, manufacturer claims. While the van includes a generator, the primary source of power is a lithium ion battery pack, capable of supporting all the technical equipment for as much as four hours. As Broadcast Solutions points, even with the large battery and the technical equipment, the gross vehicle weight remains below 3.5 tonnes, so it can be driven without the need for a truck licence.
According to Broadcast Solutions, the production systems are designed to be as simple as possible, and are generally controlled by a single operator, although the reverse bench seat provides for a second operator, and there is an additional pull-out laptop workspace in the front passenger area. The large monitor provides access to the NewTek Tricaster for routing and production control. When in edit mode, the screen provides access to the HP workstation.
Camera connectivity uses the Ereca Cam Racer system and this way, allows any professional camera to be docked and connected over standard SMPTE fibre to a 1U base station in the truck, and controlled over a web interface. Each vehicle carries Litepanel LED lighting and a number of Sennheiser microphones. For major events, the company explains that two vehicles can be simply linked together, using NDI and Dante.
As the manufacturer points, the intention is to use IP connectivity from the vehicle back to the broadcaster’s base, using either LTE or broadband via the LiveU transmission system. This also carries the Laon intercom for talkback between the camera position, the van and the central studio. Another feature the company stressed is that in case there is no strong LTE signal, there is a roof-mounted 1.2m dish, transferred from the vehicles being replaced, providing Ku-band links.
The first two vehicles are already in routine use. An extended delivery time from vehicle manufacturer VW means that the other two new trucks will not be on air until 2024.
