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BBC STUDIOS BEGINS INVESTMENT IN NEW KIT

BBC Studios, the commercial television studios business of the BBC, is beginning a new phase of investment in replacement equipment for its operation at Television Centre in West London. The first acquisitions, which form part of a two to three year programme to totally refresh its key kit, include a number of SD cameras and vision mixers. The business is also upgrading its Interactive Production Area (IPA) to meet the ever increasing demand for more simultaneous interactive streams of video, audio and data.

Following thorough assessments of manufacturers’ equipment, BBC Studios is installing 24 new Sony BVP-E30 Series cameras, which offer the very latest 14-bit analog-to-digital (A/D) conversion technology and the field-proven Power HAD EX CCDs. These core devices offer switchable operation between progressive and interlace scanning, while also giving excellent sensitivity, noise and smear performance. These will sit alongside two new WLL-CA55 wireless camera transmitters, which are designed to enable all of the cameras within the studio complex to be used cable-free.

In addition, two DVS-9000 integrated SD production switchers are also being supplied for the production galleries of two of the studios. The installation of the DVS-9000 integrated SD production switchers in the studio production galleries provides even greater system flexibility, with its range of enhanced features and a more compact design.

The upgrade of the IPA will further enhance BBC Studio’s offering for programme makers wishing to incorporate interactive elements within their programming. The new matrix will double the area’s ability to simultaneously control its output streams and will be used by production customers on a number of forthcoming programmes including Wimbledon, Euro 2004 and the Athens Olympic Games.

BBC Studios is embarking on this next phase of upgrading its equipment in order to ensure it meets the future needs of its many customers, both from the BBC and the independent production sector. It services an ever growing requirement for kit that is flexible and can handle complex multiple interactive output streams. Further investments will be made to ensure all of its studios continue to offer the same market leading specifications.
Richard Philipps, Head of BBC Studios says: “Our studios and people are internationally recognized for guaranteed delivery of exactly what each of our customers asks of us. We are both bespoke and flexible, providing a choice of talent and kit that is unique in the market place. Access to the latest technological advancements and creatively designed spaces is regarded as vital by customers. As a commercial business, we are constantly working with our customers to push the boundaries of what is possible from programming.”

For further information, please contact:

Georgie Hollett, PR & Comms Exec, BBC Resources
Tel: +44 (0)20 8576 2350 (Television Centre)
+44 (0)7834 845612 (Mobile)
Email:georgie.hollett@bbc.co.uk

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