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System Integration - PEG Channels & LPTV
The CONVERGENCE of audio, video, computer applications and networking has created a shift in the paradigm of operational workflow.  These changes can be confusing and frustrating ... especially if you've focused on any one of these areas - and are now expected to understand how that area relates to the others in a "convergent" world.

Our experience in each of these disciplines uniquely qualifies us to integrate these elements into "powerfully simple" solutions that are easy for you to understand and use.  We specialize in the design and construction of end-to-end digital installations for PEG channel operations ... as well as small TV station integration.  If you are in need of assistance at any level, give us a call.  The most important decision you'll make is the choice of a growth partner who understands your current needs ... and commits to your long-term success.  That's what we're all about!
 

PEG CHANNEL WORKFLOW

95% of PEG operations follow the same workflow model.  The following diagram illustrates how we integrate content acquisition (both field and meeting) with editing, graphics creation and playout to your cable channel.
 


 

 

Field Content Acquisition

 
 

CAMCORDERS
There are many excellent, inexpensive cameras that are great performers in the field.  To maximize your current SD operations ... AND prepare for the rapid evolution to HD ... we recommend that you consider the Sony HVR-Z1 camera.

 
 

TRIPOD & HEAD
A good tripod and camera head are essential for fluid, professional-looking shots.  You don't have to spend a lot ... but the right choice is important for consistent results.

 
 

AUDIO
Good audio is often the weakness with many field acquisition packages.  For versatility and control you'll need a balance between a good 'shotgun' camera mike ... a handheld 'interview' mike ... and a lavalier mike (with optional wireless transmitter/receiver) for optimum results.

 
 

LIGHTING
Good lighting separates 'average' production value from 'visually enhanced' presentations. There are dozens of lighting kits available that will do the job without breaking your budget.  We recommend a combination of 'soft light' and controlled light (barn doors, fresnels, etc.) to make your important segments shine!
 

 

 

Content Editing

 

NONLINEAR EDITOR (NLE)
In our opinion, the two most powerful, versatile and cost-effect performers in this arena are Adobe Premiere Pro (for PC) and Final Cut Pro (for Macintosh).  We bundle the hardware/software in a ready-to-use environment so you can get started immediately.  Both support HD editing as well.

 
 

VO MICROPHONE
There are several inexpensive choices for your "Voice-Over" microphone.  We'll recommend a solid performer with no compromise in professional results.

 
 

AUDIO MIXER
In general, you'll need a small audio mixer that supports microphone-level and line-level inputs for inputting voice and other source inputs.  Six inputs in usually plenty.

 
 

SPEAKERS
You can get great-sounding speakers for very little money.  We recommend either two powered speakers or a three-way system with sub-woofer for excellent sound monitoring functionality.

 

 

Meeting Acquisition

 
 

PTZ (Pan/Tilt/Zoom) CAMERAS
Our custom PTZ Camera Control software interfaces with both the Canon VC-C50 and the Sony BRC-300 cameras.  The Canon boasts a 26:1 optical zoom lens (Sony is 12:1) and is about one fifth the size and price of the Sony.  The Sony is a 3-chip camera with 600 video lines of resolution ... with the Canon is a single-chip camera with 460 video lines.  Both are great performers, supporting 9 user-defined presets per camera.

 
 

MEETING MICROPHONES
Flexible 'gooseneck' mikes are the best choice for meeting rooms with several participants.  These can be configured as Push-to-Talk or Push-to-Mute ... or always On.  You should also consider at least one wireless microphone for the speaker lectern

 
 

PROJECTOR
Small projector technology has provided us with remarkable brightness and quality at greatly reduced prices.  The right choice for your environment depends on how far you must "throw" the image ... and the size of your room/audience.  We'll recommend the best choice based on what we learn about your venue.

 
 

DOCUMENT CAMERA
As with projectors, small document cameras have become much less expensive with enhanced quality output.  They are great for presentation of 'flat art', with th output going both to your projector and the ToastMaster media control system.

 
  TOASTMASTER Switching, Mixing, Encoding
The ToastMaster solution is a single-user system for video switching, audio mixing, character generation, file playback, PTZ camera control ... and real-time MPEG-2 encoding.  You can simultaneously encode a high-quality MPEG-2 file AND an MPEG-4, Windows Media or Real file for distribution on the Web.  And you can stream the live meetings to your Web site at the same time!
 
 
 

 

Content Playout

 

MultiZone Integrated Media Server
The MultiZone playout server is a combination of Video Server, Bulletin Board and Character Generator ... all in one cost-effective bundle.  This connects to your cable channel modulator for 24/7 output, displaying motion video, LIVE video, and graphics in as many Zones as you define.  Layout and content design and management is done using PowerPoint!

 
 

 

   

SMALL STATION TURNKEY DESIGN

Our resource Team has decades of experience in the design, construction and operation of television facilities, recording studios, and remote production vehicles.  We can assist with all elements of your build-out - including site selection, workflow design topology, and finish out ... from "tilt up to transmitter".  Give us a call and we'll be happy to discuss your station requirements!

Facility Design by Charles Pantuso

 
   
 
800 Parker Square  Suite 200  •  Flower Mound, TX 75028  •  888.894.RUSH (7874)   
 
solutions@rushworksmedia.com