South Africa's e.tv has commissioned UK systems integrator Megahertz Broadcast Systems to design and build two studios, including a server-based newsroom at the center of the station’s forthcoming 24-hour news service.
At the same time, the channel is moving and upgrading two existing studios. The channel also is investing in two new digital satellite newsgathering (DSNG) vehicles. Megahertz will also be responsible for design and installation/construction for these projects.
Since its founding in Cape Town 10 years ago, e.tv has turned to Megahertz for seven major projects, including the design, installation and construction of e.tv news and production studios and control rooms in Johannesburg.
The Megahertz design for e.tv's new 24-hour newsroom reflects the most recent developments in file-based, shoot-edit-transmit transmission technology. The newsroom will be based on an Omneon server and a DaletPlus News Suite system with computer-based editing facilities.
Although Megahertz is not supplying the playout server and the Dalet file-based news management system, it will install them and supply nearly two-thirds of the remaining equipment, including Ikegami cameras with Canon lenses, a Ross video switcher and a 56-channel Soundcraft B800 audio broadcast console; it will also custom design all the monitor housings and other studio furniture.
Prebuild work begins this month, and the project is on schedule to allow the 24-hour news channel to commence transmission in June this year. The other studio upgrades and the new e.tv DSNG vehicles will follow later in the year.
For more information, visit www.megahertz.co.uk.
