Greek ERT Choose Pro-Bel To Supply Routing And Signal Conversion

Pro-Bel has been selected by the Greek state broadcaster ERT to supply routing and router control as well as signal conversion technology from its Vistek product line. The deal has been overseen by Pro-Bel’s Greek partner KEM Electronics SA with Pro-Bel being selected via a tender process.
ERT is currently renewing the infrastructure that supports its main news channel NET. This will allow the channel to make use of the most up-to-date technology and the installation of a central routing system is fundamental to this process.
For NET ERT has purchased a 512 x 512 Sirius Gold chassis currently equipped 256 x 256. Michael Nugent, Engineer, with ERT, said: “Although the signal format of the station is currently SD (with embedded audio), the multi-rate boards of the router are also HD-capable so we have made sure that we have purchased a system that is future-proof in terms of both size and signal format.”
The station is using Pro-Bel’s Aurora router control with a range of panels.
ERT is also currently building a new studio for its digital terrestrial service. This is located in a separate building and a smaller Sirius router has been specified for this. Making use of Pro-Bel’s advanced fibre capabilities, the two routers will be connected via fibre links located in their mainframes.
“Having internal optical converters provides two clear benefits: it results in an installation that is more cost effective and also one that operates with reduced complexity. Pro-Bel has met all our technical requirements, offering the best performance while also offering the best value. Its reliable and comprehensive control system was also an important factor,” concludes Nugent.
Graham Pitman, Pro-Bel Group CEO, said: “Cost-effective multi-site interconnection is very important and we are pleased that ERT recognises the elegance of our solution. Combined with high level onboard signal conversion and SD/HD flexibility, the inherent power of the Sirius design remains clear for all to see.”
(DS)