DNF Controls' Universal Switch Panel Adds Flexibility To EiTB Broadcasts

DNF Controls, a provider of hardware and software-based control solutions for equipment used in the television broadcast, audio/video production, post-production and graphics markets, has announced that its Universal Switch Panel (USP) with integrated SNMP support has been installed at Euskal Irrati Telebista (EiTB), a media group in the Basque Country, as part of a signal-quality management system. The USP provides the broadcaster with fast, accurate manual control over signal switching from a simply interface.
Spanish audio-visual experts Broadcast Meditel S.A. installed the USP for EiTB.
EiTB's facilities are equipped with an automated system for managing redundant signals and switching to the alternate source should the primary source fall. However, the group wanted to ability to switch those signals manually using simple push-button controls. This capability is key for situations in live broadcasts such as when a signal drops and interference in cycling coverage require a human operator to make instant decisions about acceptable signal quality, as well as when there is a need to wait for the signal to improve or to switch sources.
The 1-RU USP is a panel of multipurpose, configurable push-button switches with an easy-to-use interface that emulates the operation of mechanical push buttons. The system adds a high degree of flexibility and application-specific functionality not available in conventional push-button panels. The panel's isolated relay contact switch closure (GPO) simplifies the unit's interface while an opto-isolated tally input (GPI) allows for real-time status of external devices. The face of each USP push button features a backlit LCD display that displays "on" and "off" text legends and indicates tally status. Switch tally sources may be set for internal or external GPI. Options for switch closure action include momentary, latched, follow, or radio group, the latter allowing one or more switched closures to be interlocked.
Prior to installation of the USP, the only way operators could take over switching was through accessing the main control computer in order to find the right channel menu - among the 14 available channels - and changing it with a mouse click. Now EiTB has installed panels in its various control rooms and can make manual source switches effortlessly.
The USP's SNMP support enables the DNF Controls system to operate in tandem with EiTB's existing systems. Ethernet support allows for configuration and interconnection of multiple USP panels across the EiTB facility so that the push of a local USP button can control a remote USP switch closure.
Further information is available at: www.dnfcontrols.com, www.eitb.com and www.meditel.es.
(KMcA)