A new digital radio camera has been developed by the BBC’s R&D Department. Using BBC R&D’s own COFDM design (DVB-T compatible) and technology based on the DVC Pro coding system to achieve a robust and reliable low delay digital camera system.
BBC Resources Ltd is now able to offer a fully operational cable-free digital camera with a delay as low as two frames, and a range of up to 500m line-of-sight outdoors. Indoors, it easily covers large, typical stadium environments.
Advantages over its analogue predecessor include lower transmitted power, excellent quality digital component video and reliable reception; its reduced inventory means lower rigging time and therefore reduced costs. All of these provide a greater flexibility to allow the camera operator to safely acquire material from novel positions much more quickly than before.
BBC Resources Ltd has been using prototype cameras in the events such as sports outside broadcasts, both handheld and fixed on vehicles. They have worked with BBC R&D to ensure operational effectiveness for the radio camera design.
Colin Prior, Head of Outside Broadcasts, BBC Resources, said:
‘This version of the digital radio camera really is cutting edge. It offers fantastic advantages in a live sport broadcast situation. It has the mobility we need for fast camera work, coupled with a robust signal and economic operation. Our camera operators and engineers have had a direct input to the development of the prototype and we are certain that this latest generation model will fundamentally change the shape of outside broadcasting.’
Martin Webster, BBC Sports Producer, said:
‘I have used earlier versions of these cameras at many key athletics events. They make a huge difference to the reliability of the material we broadcast as well as offering customers a flexible and efficient means of gathering it.’
The system offers 20 Mbit picture quality with only 2 frames of delay, far in advance of other digital radio cameras systems.
About BBC Resources’ Outside Broadcasts
BBC Resources’ Outside Broadcasts has operated as a wholly owned BBC commercial subsidiary since 1998. There is no licence fee involved in running BBC Outside Broadcasts.
BBC Resources customers include BBC Production as well as Independent Production companies and other broadcasters around the World.
As part of one of the most innovative broadcasters in the world, BBC Resources can supply digital outside broadcasts and special camera and communications solutions tailored to all requirements.
For further infroamtion please contact:
Yvonne Schubert
BBC Resources Press Office
Tel: 020 8624 9469