Norway's TV 2 Extends Pre-Bel Installation

Norway’s largest commercial broadcaster TV 2 has recently further expanded its use of Pro-Bel routing and master control technology as it nears the completion of its new main control platform centred on Pro-Bel’s Morpheus technology.
The installation has been assisted by Pro-Bel’s Norwegian partner Video 4.
The most recent order is for the expansion of its key router to serve its core channel TV 2. The broadcaster has installed a large Sirius Gold router (384 x 384). As part of its ongoing move into six new control suites, it has also installed a further 64 x 64 Sirius and a TX500 series master control unit. These orders come on top of an ongoing partnership between Pro-Bel and TV 2 as the broadcast restructures and expands its playout facilities to handle an increased channel line-up.
TV 2 – which has its main facilities in Bergen - began a major re-organisation of its playout systems back in 2005 when the trial of a new channel – TV 2 Xtra – proved successful. At that time the broadcaster selected Pro-Bel’s Morpheus technology alongside Freeway routers and TX500 series master control units.
“We have now established the tapeless operation of nine channels including sports and movie channels and we can easily switch the workplaces between them. By placing these into groups we can use staff far more efficiently and provide resilient back-up,” says Ole Johan Skogheim, Head of Systems with TV 2.
Skogheim explains that by using core technology from one supplier it allows the broadcaster to become involved in the development of the products. “The overall system is continuously evolving and there have, of course, been a lot of challenges along the way with a project of this size. We have worked closely with Pro-Bel and would make the same technology choices again,” he explains.
“We have a strong relationship with TV 2 and enjoy working with them to ensure that they achieve their aims. It is essential that we listen to our existing and future customers during a period of change in the industry,” concluded Adrian Scott, Chief Marketing Officer, Pro-Bel.
(SP)