German public broadcaster WDR is among the first European customers to adopt the Riedel Communications MediorNet MicroN UHD media distribution and processing device, deploying 13 devices to support live HD and UHD broadcasts from Ü3, the broadcaster’s newest OB van. Systems integrator Broadcast Solutions is providing engineering and installation services for the project.
The newly launched MicroN UHD is the latest generation of the MediorNet MicroN family of modular, high-density signal interfaces, increasing bandwidth, I/O, resolution options, and processing power. Reflecting Riedel’s distributed and software-defined approach to signal transport, two of the 13 MicroN UHD modules on Ü3 are dedicated to run the MicroN UHD Multiviewer App.
Among the requirements for WDR’s UHD truck were for a highly decentralised approach to signal management, allowing transport and processing via a single cable, and to provide an on-ramp to IP-based operations. As long-time Riedel MediorNet users, WDR chose the new MicroN UHD nodes because of the additional horsepower they would bring to its HD and UHD broadcasts. As software-defined hardware devices, the MicroN UHDs offer a major advantage in addition to built-in processing functions such as embedding, de-embedding, frame synchronizer, or frame store, as they can be quickly reconfigured to serve a wide range of functions, including multiviewing.
WDR is also deploying a Riedel Artist-128 digital matrix intercom mainframe and seven RSP-1232HL SmartPanel interfaces. In a future project, Broadcast Solutions will expand the use of the SmartPanels for agile routing and control of audio, video, and intercom signals within the MediorNet network by leveraging the HI human interface control tool via the SmartPanel’s NMOS API.
‘Since the launch of MicroN UHD, it has been embraced by the industry’s biggest names in live production. This is a clear sign that with our new networking and processing solution, we are in the right place at the right time,’ says Riedel Senior Account Manager, Olivier Görts. ‘WDR’s new Ü3 van is the perfect showcase to demonstrate MicroN UHD’s groundbreaking capabilities, including 400G backbone connectivity, link redundancy, and support for 12G-SDI in native UHD workflows.’
More: www.riedel.net
