German broadcaster ZDF entrusts systems integrator BFE with the renewal of their ingest and playout video server infrastructure. Main, backup and test playout systems in Mainz as well as a DR playout server in Berlin will be replaced with Harmonic Spectrum X components. The ingest systems will use Harmonic Spectrum X components with a Harmonic MediaGrid storage system as well as Adobe Premiere Pro Creative Cloud for editing and error correction. The new servers will be integrated in the existing Pebble Beach Automation Marina and the Avid Interplay MAM system.

BFE was able to demonstrate the performance and qualification of the offered system and thus began working on the detailed specifications in February. In this phase, BFE is collaborating with the ZDF to create a detailed migration concept, which ensures safe “on air” exchange of the video servers while maintaining the performance of the running system at any time.

Following the project handover, ZDF will rely, within a 60-month SLA contract, on BFE’s service and support competencies.