ATG complete two BBC contracts

ATG Broadcast have completed two contracts recently awarded to them by the BBC.
One of Britain's most active broadcast systems integrators, ATG Broadcast were commissioned by BBC Technology to design and construct a new Multi-Channel Streaming Area at BBC Television Centre, London. The installation centred on an Omnibus Systems Colossus Automation with custom-designed ATG Broadcast control panel interfaces to allow rapid manual intervention on any channel. Additional equipment included BBC Technology BNCS control, Omneon Video Area Network servers, Eyeheight PresTX presentation mixers and Zandar DX-16 multiviewers.
ATG Broadcast managing director Graham Buchanan said: "These two contracts confirm ATG's ability to design and build elaborate multi-channel interactive television systems in addition to conventional broadcast installations. The BBC Multi-Channel Streaming Area is one of the most advanced systems of its kind to be installed anywhere in the world and is one of the most exciting projects we have ever undertaken. The key to success in such an undertaking is to combine technical innovation with operational simplicity and absolute on-air reliability."
Future expansion was a major consideration in the design of the system which allows extra transmission channels to be installed cost-efficiently when additional capacity is required. The new installation is being used to transmit BBC Choice and interactive services.
The second contract encompassed new vision, audio and communication facilities for the BBC's TC3 studio, together with a new control room suite. This was the first time that the BBC has awarded a combined refurbishment contract for all areas to one company. The contract covered the supply of the first digital audio system for a BBC TV Centre studio.
This included installing a 96-channel 128-input Calrec Alpha 100 digital console purchased by the BBC and options for a 48-track Tascam DA98/DA88 multitrack recorder. TC3 is being used for 'Top of the Pops', the Calrec console's configuration memory enabling five bands to play live for each show. TC3 is the third BBC TV Centre studio ATG Broadcast has refurbished, the others being TC2 and TC5.
(GB)