Freedom Broadcasting Selects Ross For Production Control Technology

Ross Video has announced that Freedom Broadcasting has invested in six OverDrive Production Control Systems and Synergy Multi-Definition (MD-X) Production Switchers to update technical operations across a number of its stations.
Freedom is currently producing local news up to eight hours a day at four stations using Ross automation production control technology. Installation at the other stations is expected to be complete in 2007.
“Freedom Broadcasting kicked off a broad initiative to update and automate technical operations,” said Tony Alicea, Director of Broadcast Systems, Freedom Broadcasting. “One of our first efforts focused on live production control technology for our local newscasts. A couple of our stations had Synergy switchers and RossGear, and we were interested to see how OverDrive could help us achieve our operational objectives in a cost-effective way. In our analysis we felt that OverDrive and Synergy’s long list of compatible devices, systems, and its flexibility to transition from manual to semi-automated to fully automated productions best suited the workflows at our stations. We were also very impressed with Ross’ commitment to delivering value on investment and their dedication to pleasing their customers.”
Alicea commented: “Overall, we’ve not been disappointed in our experience with Ross Video. Our systems were delivered early and our installations went smoothly. The integration with our existing production systems had the usual challenges you should expect, but Ross has been there to understand our productions, to tailor the technology to those workflows, and to help resolve any issues along the way. Also, their commissioning and training teams were excellent.”
“We are thrilled Freedom Broadcasting chose Ross production control technology as part of their multi-station upgrade,” said David Ross, CEO, Ross Video. “Freedom has a reputation for embracing emerging technologies to their benefit, and this experience shows how our technology is adaptable and flexible enough to be customized to their requirements. OverDrive combined with Synergy Standard Definition (SD) and Multi-Definition (MD) switchers makes automating a live production a very cost effective and powerful tool for broadcasters. Choosing the right technology plays a key role for broadcasters advancing their facilities, and we will continue to develop products and services to meet the needs of our customers.”
OverDrive is a highly flexible and scalable production control system with a real-time LiveLink™ MOS interface to the newsroom editorial system. The extensive device control capabilities of the Synergy 4 MD-X digital production switcher combined with OverDrive gives users the ability to execute a more consistent, efficient, and sophisticated news production.
The Synergy 4 MD-X Multi-Definition Production Switcher combines a 4 effects bank control panel with the MD-X live production engine provides 4 full MEs with up to 4 downstream keyers. Each M/E is equipped with 4 channels of Squeeze & Tease 3D DVEs, two standard UltraChrome™ Chroma Keyers, and 4 channels of MLE-Store with MediaCache moving image play back. The Synergy 4 MD-X is used in the most advanced newscasts and supports HD, SD or any combination of the two formats.
(SP)