Asia-Pacific Broadcasting (APB) Systems Integration 2015

Emerging technologies, workﬂ ows redeﬁ ned KVM becomes the heart and backbone of broadcast by roland ollek Where it rather was a side issue just a few years ago, today broadcast infra- structures can no longer be imagined without KVM (keyboard, video and mouse) anymore. Not least because of the ongoing convergence between broadcast and IT technology, this effi - cient control technology has become an integral part of the broadcast industry. Platform-independent KVM sys- tems, simply explained, deal with the distribution and extension of computer signals, and in the process, vastly sim- plifies heterogeneous broadcasting environments. Th anks to KVM, diverse applica- tions, as well as distribution installa- tions, can be consolidated in a single, homogeneous user platform. Th is has enabled the systems to develop into powerful control tools over time, and thus easily becoming the fundamental backbone of an IT infrastructure. Th e universal deployment of KVM systems in turn results in further advan- tages for heterogeneous environments in the Asia-Pacifi c region. In addition to the already highly developed technology centres that cur- rently run on complex broadcast infra- structures, we also see emerging regions which currently fi nd themselves em- barking on the transition into a new era. Here, where digitisation is just mak- ing its entrance, analogue systems are occasionally still used. A KVM infra- structure is ideal in this context, as it can operate both digital and analogue systems. Th is is a massive advantage for a step-wise migration. For Asian countries that are already deeply entrenched in Ultra HD (UHD) implementation, KVM also provides the basis for high-performing installations. With the current relevance of KVM systems, the correct components are For Asian countries that are already deeply entrenched in UHD implementation, KVM provides the basis for high-performing installations. www.twitter.com/APB_News crucial, and a number of questions re- garding the system architecture, system size, cabling and operating concepts are raised in the initial planning stages. Must video signals be transmit- ted compressed, or transparently, and what should these operating concepts look like? To answer such questions an d, above all, implement a future-proof sys- tem that is also prepared for subsequent requirements and can be expanded, we at Guntermann & Drunck (G&D) depend on comprehensive project con- sultancy. For this reason, we refuse the use of OEM businesses and sales via simple distributors. Instead, for the integration of our devices, we install carefully selected lo- cal partners who have received extensive product training — but beyond that, who are also familiar with the exact on-site conditions and requirements, and are able to address them. An added value that systems integrators provide is the ability to manage further parts of an installation, other than the pure KVM part. Th e training department specially run by G&D puts the regionally based partners in the position where they can advise, alongside the manufacturer itself, on the optimal solution, and are able to off er the best post-installation service. Th is further enhances the qual- ity standards that G&D insists upon. This approach has always helped the manufacturer to remain as close as possible to the market, and therefore quickly react to related requirements. Th is is why we are also proud of our capability to support diff erent solutions for video transmission — depending on individual market requirements. Hence, we provide not only sys- tems for transparent, uncompressed video transmission of up to 4K at 60Hz, but also an in-house developed and extremely powerful compression standard. Ultimately, video is currently the most important signal in the KVM signal mix in broadcast terms, and so a manufacturer cannot aff ord to lose control of this core competence. Th e question as to which type of optimal For the integration of our devices, we install carefully selected local partners who have received extensive product training — but beyond that, who are also familiar with the exact on-site conditions and requirements, and are able to address them. video transmission to use can also be answered by the systems integrator if necessary. Th e aforementioned convergence of formerly separate technologies has meant that, today, powerful KVM sys- tems also process more than the usual PC signals. G&D systems now support originary broadcast signals such as SDI and multi-channel audio and, thanks to the compatibility and expandability of components, systems can grow ac- cordingly, and the installations are thus prepared for future requirements. In addition to the basic benefi ts of KVM — smart workfl ow optimisation and decluttered workplaces in studios or OB vans — additional control fea- tures bring an even greater added value. Ancillary functions off er comprehen- sive security concepts as well as options for external systems operation. In summary, the various options refer back to the point on why G&D re- lies so heavily on good advice and good support for its customers — either di- rectly or through its systems integration partners, regionally spread throughout the Asia-Pacifi c region. As Koh Tian Teck of eNova Technologies, our Singapore partner, said: “Right from the beginning the cooperation with G&D has been excellent. Th e KVM knowledge provided by their individual training sums up perfectly with our technical expertise and detailed knowl- edge of the Singapore market. We’re happy to pass on this expertise to our customers via in-depth consultancy.” Roland Ollek is CEO Sales & Marketing at Guntermann & Drunck www.apb-news.com / 11

Asia-Pacific Broadcasting (APB) Systems Integration 2015 | Page 13