​Blending real and virtual elements on set: part 1 January 29th 2015 - 08:52 PM

Not so long ago Augmented Reality (AR) was considered a gimmick in studio presentation, but it is now becoming an integral part of many productions. AR elements are becoming part of the workflow, with integration to NRCS systems, triggered by the switcher or controlled by studio automation systems. Continuous improvements…

Helping Ultra HD-4K TV Set Manufacturers Keep Content Safe January 28th 2015 - 01:30 PM

STMicroelectronics (ST), a global provider of semiconductor and System-On-Chip (SoC) technology, and Civolution, a supplier of technology and solutions for identifying, managing and monetising content, have combined Civolution’s NexGuard forensic watermarking with ST’s UltraHD-4K Cannes and Monaco SoCs to help content owners and distributors detect unauthorised sharing of …

The case for script-based collaboration January 27th 2015 - 11:59 AM

In a modern production workflow, online tools enable different people to participate from different locations. Media files and production information, often separately stored and managed at different locations, need to be exchanged. Due to a lack of standards, producers rely on Facebook or exchanging documents via email. As a result,…

A Good Intercom is Vital to Any Broadcast January 25th 2015 - 10:49 AM

​Producing football is tough enough, but broadcasting Super Bowl XLIX moves the requirement for a good intercom to a whole new level. The solution needs to connect the broadcast technical and production teams not only with each other but also to the crews handling the live half-time show.

Why Octocopters are better than Quadcopters January 17th 2015 - 04:10 PM

What is the point of having eight motors/propellers when wouldn’t four be more efficient? The simple answer is yes. On paper, a quadcopter (a craft with four motors and propellers) is more efficient than an octocopter (a craft with eight). The added motors mean more energy sucked out o…

Media Security? What Security? January 16th 2015 - 12:48 PM

Media security is top of the list for broadcast executives. And the recent Sony Pictures hack illustrates that everyone is a potential target. John Watkinson looks at why cyber-attacks have become common, and what broadcasters, Hollywood and TV show makers can do to try and protect their investments.