 SMPTE
2005 – Conference Programme
CONFERENCE REGISTRATION
Conference & Exhibition registration for this year's event
is being handled by Expertise Events.
To register online, visit the conference website www.smpte.com.au/conference.php
SESSION 1 Sound for Starters
SESSION 1.1
TUESDAY 19 JULY AM
Presenter: Paul Isaacs, Sales & Marketing Manager, Sound Techniques,
New Zealand
Title: Non-linear (file-based) Sound Recording – from Location
to Post
Abstract
DAT is dead!
That may be a little premature, but it’s rapidly running out
of time as most DAT manufacturers have ceased production.
Those involved in capturing and creating sound for Film and TV are
increasingly benefiting from production sound recorded to file-based
formats such as hard-disk and solid state memory. A new generation
of portable non-linear recorders provide significant advantages
over tape, for example, superior audio quality, multi-track capability,
fast audio file transfer and metadata support.
Paul Isaacs presents an overview of the technologies available,
their benefits to production and the main issues as far as post-production
is concerned.
Biography
Paul has been interested in sound from a young age, whether it be
from a musician’s or an engineer’s viewpoint.
Having acquired a degree in Physics and Music and composed for a
theatre company, Paul worked as a BBC radio engineer for several
years. After travelling Australia, he joined HHB where he worked
his way from Service Manager to Technical Development Manager, the
latter a key role in the development of several audio products culminating
in the cutting edge, 8-track harddisk recorder, Portadrive.
Paul emigrated with his family last year to New Zealand where he
is Sales and Marketing Manager for Sound Techniques.
SESSION 1.2
TUESDAY 19 JULY AM
Presenter: David Strachan, Director of Sales, Evertz Microsystems
Ltd
Title: The Simple Path for Dolby E
Abstract
By compressing the audio data, Dolby offers the engineer the ability
to carry up to 8 channels of audio, complete with metadata, into
the space normally occupied by a single AES-3 digital audio channel.
Further simplification in cabling can be achieved by embedding Dolby
E data into the video stream. However, if all audio and video paths
are not designed carefully, the advantages can be marred by lip
sync problems, audio errors, and loss of metadata information.
This paper describes the Dolby E process as it relates to video,
the carriage of Dolby D or Dolby E as embedded audio and how to
maintain lip synchronization and preserve the Dolby metadata.
Biography
David Strachan is Director of Sales for Evertz Microsystems Ltd.
in Burlington, Ontario, Canada. He has held positions as International
Sales Manager and Director of Marketing at Leitch Technology and
as Director of Sales for M/A Electronics Ltd. He has worked in the
fields of AM and FM radio, optics, satellite communications and
broadcast video. Mr Strachan is a Graduate of the former Institute
of Electronic and Radio Engineers in the UK and has authored numerous
articles on analogue, digital and HDTV television. In his spare
time he likes to fly, sail, ski, play guitar and drive his model
steam engine.
SESSION 1.3
TUESDAY 19 JULY AM
Author/Presenter: Graeme Huon, Director, HuonLabs Pty Ltd
Title: Audio Formats Beyond Surround Sound
Abstract
New formats and apparatus for correct and accurate reproduction
of direct sounds and early reflections everywhere in the listening
environment even when listeners turn and move are described and
apparatus shown.
Methods for improving coupling efficiency and eliminating low frequency
room mode influence for individual locations and with simultaneous
arrival for large audiences and reduced stray sound are described.
A new apparatus for correct reproduction of the reverberant sound
field part without signal processing is shown and its use in masking
room acoustics described. Extensions to the human acoustic perception
model are presented. The impact of these developments on broadcast
and distribution is discussed. The work is the subject of patent
applications.
Biography
Graeme Huon of Melbourne Australia has an Engineering Degree from
Monash University, a Diploma of Education from Rusden State College
Victoria and a Graduate Certificate from UC Berkeley (Haas business
school). He has worked in telecommunications for Telstra and Siemens
in Australia, USA and Germany. He has been actively involved in
audio for thirty years, has lectured, won awards, holds patents
and has established numerous startup ventures in the field including
the Techstream and Whise Precision Audio families of companies.
HuonLabs was established in 2004 to commercialise the next wave
of audio technologies.
The paper describes new non-surround formats that deliver walk-around
or shared in-room sound reproduction with no restriction on the
sweet spot and with localisation of sound sources that remain correctly
located as the listener moves or turns their head. These new formats
render the direct sound field correctly without any personal apparatus.
They can use fewer loudspeakers than is presently the case and are
fully compatible with existing surround set-ups.
SESSION 1.4
TUESDAY 19 JULY AM
Presenter: Jim Barbour, MComms, Grad Dip Ed, Lecturer in Radio,
Audio and Multimedia, Swinburne University of Technology, Melbourne
Title: Multi-Channel surround sound on Digital Radio
Abstract
Digital Radio Broadcasting is being tested currently in Australia,
with trials using Eureka 147 DAB technology. For DRB to be successful
in Australia there must be significant listener benefits to encourage
the greatest number of listeners to purchase and use new receivers.
Digital radio has also allowed delivery to evolve beyond stereo,
and broadcasting music and drama in multi-channel surround sound
is emerging as an additional benefit. Radio producers and sound
engineers are using new tools to explore a powerful new creative
opportunity. This paper will examine approaches to surround sound
broadcasting considering the digital formats and broadcast technology
required, including the important issues of stereo and mono down-mixing
for compatibility, as well as the production and post-production
changes necessary for surround sound broadcasting. Finally, the
results of audio testing conducted by the author into consumer perception
of the quality of multi-channel audio codecs will be presented.
Biography
Jim has extensive experience working in commercial media in Australia
and overseas as a music producer, recording engineer and production
manager. Jim has been an academic at Swinburne University for more
than 15 years teaching radio, audio and multimedia, and Jim’s
research interests are in Spatial Audio and consumer surround sound.
SESSION 1.5
TUESDAY 19 JULY AM
Presenter: Charles W Kelly Jr, Director International Sales, Broadcast
Electronics Inc
Title: Digital HD Radio: What’s in it for Australia?
Abstract
iBiquity HDRadio™ is rapidly being deployed in the United
States and now, increasingly elsewhere. What does HDRadio offer
Australian Broadcasters, and how can digital AM and FM radio be
implemented as cost effectively as possible? What is the status
of receivers in the market? Will they be affordable?
Biography
Charles W. Kelly, Jr. is a 31 year veteran of Radio. Mr. Kelly is
a two term Past President of the Society of Broadcast Engineers
(SBE), a professional society with over 5000 members in over 30
countries. He currently serves the SBE as Chairman, International
Committee, He has been a speaker at numerous seminars and conventions,
including NAB, NRBA, BES (India), Broadcast Asia, ABU, Broadcast
Indonesia, ABA (Australia) and KBP (Philippines), and has authored
technical articles for Radio World, Broadcast Engineering and Broadcast
Management / Engineering.
SESSION 2
Film & Digital Cinema
SESSION 2.1
TUESDAY 19 JULY AM
Authors: Steve Taysom & Marcel Riveccié, Eastman Kodak
Company
Presenter: Steve Taysom, Technical Manager, Customer Technical Services,
Entertainment Imaging, Eastman Kodak Greater Asia Region
Title: Digital Intermediate: The Challenges and the Significance
of Color Management
Abstract
Preserving image quality and creative integrity are important factors
throughout the digital intermediate process. We are moving towards
an environment where production and post production must collaborate
more closely than ever before to maintain the filmmaker’s
vision and intended look. Whilst digital post production techniques
afford filmmakers untold creative freedom, they also introduce a
new set of challenges in maintaining quality in terms of resolution,
bit-depth and color management.
This session will define digital intermediate in relation to quality
and distinguish between the various formats and post production
paths. It will address quality challenges and look in detail at
the role an accurate color management system plays in producing
the best possible result whilst emulating a film look.
Biography
Steve Taysom joined Kodak (Australasia) Pty Ltd in 1975 after achieving
his Diploma of Photographic Technology from the Royal Melbourne
Institute of Technology. Following a two-year period in the Kodak
Research Laboratory, he worked with the Motion Imaging Technical
Centre for six years. Steve also spent 12 months in the Microscopy
Department prior to departing the research environment for a sales
role. Steve is a former committee member of the recently formed
Screen Services Association of Victoria and was formerly Chair of
the SMPTE Australia Southern Section for six years. He held a technical
sales role with Kodak’s Entertainment Imaging group for over
18 years and is currently Technical Manager, Customer Technical
Services, Entertainment Imaging, Eastman Kodak Greater Asia Region,
based in Melbourne.
SESSION 2. 2
TUESDAY 19 JULY AM
Author: Dave Bancroft, Manager Advanced Technology, Thomson
Presenter: Mark Chiolis,
Title: An Efficient and Future-proof Architecture for Digital Intermedia
Production
SESSION 2. 3
TUESDAY 19 JULY AM
Authors: Phil Nottle, Noboru (CB) Yanagita
Presenter: Phil Nottle
Title: Display and distribution technologies for Digital Cinema
Abstract
This paper gives a brief overview of the Digital Cinema specification
that has been proposed by the Digital Cinema Initiatives, LLC Technology
Committee. We then examine Sony’s implementation of the Projection
Fundamentals Requirements section in this specification using the
4K SXRD projection system.
Biography
Philip Nottle has worked in the broadcast industry since 1967. His
experience has covered both the radio and television areas within
the Australian Broadcasting Corporation as well as four years outside
the ABC as a contractor with the SA Film Corporation and various
production houses. From 1986 he was responsible for providing technical
training to the ABC’s technical staff.
Philip joined Sony Australia in 2000 as the Training Manager for
all Broadcast and Professional products. With the merger of the
Broadcast and Consumer engineering groups to form the Customer Service
and Support Division, he has also taken on responsibility for the
provision of technical training for Sony’s consumer products.
He prepares and presents courses on the DVCAM, DVW, DNW, XDCAM,
HDC and HDW product range. He holds a Certificate IV in Workplace
Training (Category 2) and is a member of SMPTE. He is also involved
in the ARSG6 and CT-2 standards committees.
SESSION 2. 4
TUESDAY 19 JULY AM
Author / Presenter: Emil Borissoff, Chief Engineer, Technicolor
Creative Services - Toronto
Title: Digital Cinema Image Formation
Abstract
In this season of technological changes it is worth to consider
the benefits of the early deployment of Digital Cinema (DC), while
managing its practicality.
Analog image frame formation (for comparison). In this method, every
element from the picture source is projected continuously on the
screen during the frame lit period.
Pixel lit-time modulation for image frame formation. A two-dimensional
light duration modulation delivers the screen image, with persistence
control over every pixel - DLP.
Row-scan image frame formation. LCD projectors allow light to pass
through their elements, based on sequential scanning. The reflective
LCOS use sample-and-hold circuit to the pixel matrix.
Pixel-scan and row-scan image frame formation. In comparing the
available cinematic methods, one new technologies is outlined -
Field Effect Display.
The paper discusses the factor of JPEG 2000 compression in preserving
the captured motion for the evolving Digital Cinema.
Biography
Emil Borissoff is Chief Engineer of Technicolor Creative Services
– Toronto. He joined the company 14 years ago. Borissoff has
been working in the area of digital video systems and motion imaging.
His research interests include 3D sampling and conversion, compression
optimization, dynamic scene artifacts. He received an M.S. and a
Ph.D. degree in electronic engineering and image processing from
the Polytechnic University of Sofia, Bulgaria in 1977 and 1987,
respectively. Borissoff started his career as a broadcast engineer
with a TV station, engaged from the beginning with R & D. He
moved to Canada in 1991 as a senior post-production engineer. He
is a holder of four international patents in the field of video
algorithms. He is a member of SMPTE since 1994.
SESSION 2.5
TUESDAY 19 JULY AM
Title: Digital Cinema Panel
Chair: Sean Glasson
SESSION 3
Getting things done, by people who have!
SESSION 3.1
TUESDAY 19 JULY PM
Authors / Presenters: Greg Bergsma, Business Development Manager,
Ruzz Technology
Robert Rutherford, Managing Director and Chief Technology Officer,
Ruzz Technology
Title: Evolution not revolution – using middleware to integrate
legacy systems into novel solutions
Abstract
Today's broadcast environment demands the integration of new technologies
with old. Consolidation of operations often requires the integration
of separate, but fully operational, broadcast infrastructures. This
presentation details the integration of the broadcast infrastructure
of Seven Queensland with Seven's Broadcast Centre in Melbourne.
It provides an overview of how Ruzz Technology was able to achieve
Seven’s business objectives through a middleware platform
approach – ultimately integrating the two disparate traffic
systems and infrastructures. The result is a seamless solution that
delivers organizational efficiencies, with minimal operational changes
– without the typical “big bang” encountered in
projects of this nature.
Biography
With 24 years of international sales, marketing, operations and
technical experience in the IT&C, broadcast, wagering and process
control industries - Greg is responsible for driving sales growth
and is a core member of the planning team focused on establishing
Ruzz as a leading international player. The foundation for that
growth is the Ruzz Platform for Broadcast Infrastructure Management
(BIM) – which delivers major business advantage for broadcasters
in an effective, flexible and future-proof solution.
SESSION 3.2
TUESDAY 19 JULY PM
Presenter: José Goldmann, Principal IT&T Consultant,
SLI-Consulting Pty Ltd
Title: Effective Server and Render Farm Deployment
Abstract
The paper addresses how servers and data storage are going to be
deployed effectively in mid size to large-scale server/render farms
in Data Centre especially in the Post industry. This Australian
pioneered, developed and deployed concept can scale dynamically
from five compute / render nodes (10 CPUs) to several thousand compute/render
nodes (thousands of CPUs). It also shares a centrally managed, scalable,
redundant, high performance SAN infrastructure with mixed FC and
SATA hdd from a couple of TB into hundreds of TB of disks with block
level and file level access capabilities. Key differentiators are:
Economical integration of business applications, on-line expandability/scalability,
shared infrastructure across the enterprise, manageability, reduced
TCO by up to 37% compared to conventional deployment.
Biography
With more than 20 years experience in the IT industry, José
has worked all over the world for companies such as Hewlett-Packard,
Meltek, Citec and Rakon. He has been a service engineer, systems
engineer, engineering manager, technical consultant and senior IT&T
consultant, before becoming the Principal Consultant for SLI-Consulting
in 2001. As one of Australia’s leading data storage experts,
José is a regular keynote speaker at international data storage
conferences. Recent presentations include his paper on the implementation
of the world’s biggest WIN2000 SAN at the IIR Conference –
E-Data Storage in Sydney and Measuring Storage - What is it About?
- IDC StorageVision in Seoul and Sydney.
SESSION 3.3
TUESDAY 19 JULY PM
Presenter: TBA
Title: TBA
SESSION 3.4
TUESDAY 19 JULY PM
Presenter: Wayne Sellwood, Producer / Director, NZCP
Title: HD the New Zealand Story (or finding our own way)
Abstract
The future of 1080P high resolution ‘mastering’ cinematography
in New Zealand (a land without HD transmission). From concept to
comparison tests, to full production and post. In 1998 a team was
formed by Wayne Sellwood and DOP Malcolm Ferguson with equipment
provided by a leading Japanese electronics firm.
HD material will screen including comments by DOP’s and HD
engineers. NZ names such as Malcolm Ferguson, Warwick Wrigley, Kelvin
Peach, Brian Cubitt, Michael Bach and Australasian DOP Keith Wagstaff
ASC.
Biography
Presented by Wayne Sellwood, producer/director with over 40 years
experience in NZ broadcast television arena. A past president of
NZPDWG, with a known commitment to NZ industry progress.
SESSION 3.5
TUESDAY 19 JULY PM
Authors / Presenters: Tim Mason, Chief Engineer , Imparja Television
David Limpus, Technical Manager, Imparja Television
Title: Design for a Multipurpose TV Control Room / Edit Suite configured
for
Multi-channel Audio
Abstract
As part of preparation for digital broadcasting Imparja is building
a fully digital facility expected to be on air early in 2006. A
cornerstone of the design is a novel “wedge shape” room
which will act as edit suite, continuity / presentation, ingest
QA or audio / master control. It will be fully equipped for 5.1
surround monitoring, including stereo / mono compatibility and will
provide a standard, calibrated audio monitoring environment across
the whole plant.
Biography – Tim Mason
Tim Mason’s broadcast career started in 1969 with the (then)
British Post Office, working on conversion of TV microwave links
to colour. After a series of strategic career moves taking in the
Plymouth (UK) commercial radio station, the Pacific Island state
of Vanuatu and spells in China, India, Saudi Arabia and Papua New
Guinea, Tim arrived in Sydney to work on delivery systems for satellite
TV services.
In 1996 he was appointed Chief Engineer of Alice Springs based Imparja
Television where he is currently planning a new digital broadcast
facility in preparation for the introduction of digital broadcasting
to remote areas.
Biography – David Limpus
David Limpus began at WIN Television Rockhampton in 1993 and has
spent the past six years at Imparja Television. David has therefore
spent his broadcast career exclusively in regional and remote television
(the pointy end of the industry, where the term cost effective is
part of the design criteria). David’s responsibilities encompass
the design and technical implementation of station projects and
have most recently included a 6 seat XSAN connected Final Cut Pro
editing system.
SESSION 3.6
TUESDAY 19 JULY PM
Presenter: Bruce Ryan, Manager AVAMS & Public Officer, CARP
Inc
Title: Working with Low Budgets and Best Value Technologies
Abstract
Filmmaker Bruce Ryan takes us on a 30 year production journey to
recall the challenges and rewards he and his team experienced in
setting up a rather unique Media Unit. The Unit produced a popular
weekly television program called ‘Around The Schools’
working on a shoestring budget.
In his SMPTE Paper Bruce provides a wealth of hints for those keen
to embark on a media or filmmaking career especially if it involves
‘Working with Low Budgets and Best Value Technologies’.
Biography
Bruce Ryan has an educational and filmmaking background. In the
Seventies he researched the effectiveness of audio visual aids in
open learning, team teaching and Inservice education environments.
In the eighties he set up his own Film & Video Production Van
to record the good things happening in schools and communities whilst
studying Communication and Television Production at Mitchell CAE
and the Australian Film & Television School.
His most recent project called ‘Remembers’ is restoring
in interactive DVD format, the history and heritage of country towns
and communities.
SESSION 4
Cameras & Origination
SESSION 4.1
TUESDAY 19 JULY PM
Presenter: John Virtue, Manager Digital Imaging, Panavision Australia
Title: Genesis - The New Era in Digital 35mm Feature Cameras
Abstract
HDTV, at or about its current resolution, has been around for over
20 years. In the last 5 years there has been a change in the industry
with the introduction and acceptance of 24P electronic acquisition
taking over some tradition film image capture market share. The
Panavision Genesis Digital Camera system is the first implementation
of a system designed specifically for the work practices and preferences
of the 35mm feature market. With its “35mm” sized single
CCD sensor capable of taking existing 35mm film lenses Panavision
have made the next step towards a totally digital future in film
making.
Biography
John works for Panavision Australia as Manager Digital Imaging.
He is responsible for Panavision’s HD camera systems in Asia
Pacific. He works with Panavision and its agents to develop the
HD market and also train the film community about HD systems. He
has been directly involved in HD shooting on features such as Starwars
- Attack of the Clones, Matrix - Reloaded and in using HD for commercials,
TV series, shorts, documentaries in the Asia Pacific region. He
is currently supporting the first ever use of the Panavision Genesis
Digital Camera system on the Warner Brothers’ feature “Superman
Returns”.
SESSION 4.2
TUESDAY 19 JULY PM
Author/Presenter: Jeff Bachus, Senior Product Manager, Jadoo Power
Systems Inc
Title: Fuel Cells – Will they replace conventional batteries
Abstract
Fuel Cell technology is continually improving and they now have
the ability to produce DC power with exceptional efficiency and
long run times. Fuel Cells have many advantages over conventional
batteries such as no memory effect or self discharge, and promise
to become the powering technology of the future.
Learn the principle of fuel cells and the huge advantages they offer,
and how they are finding applications in the television broadcasting
and surveillance industry.
Hear about the stringent safety testing procedures that fuel cells
go through and why they are safe and why they can be operated in
a variety of harsh environments.
Fuel cells produce no harmful emissions with the power generation
by-product being water vapor.
Biography
Jeff Bachus is a Senior Product Manager for Jadoo Power Systems
based in Folsom, California. Jeff’s background includes 15+
years of high tech marketing and product development for the Broadcast,
Production and Post Production industries. The convergence of streamlined
media production workflows with greater mobility requirements for
production operations versus the performance of batteries typically
used to support these operations frame the opportunity for fuel
cells. Providing the public with information about fuel cells, their
inner workings and how fuel cells can power professional video equipment
are the subjects of Jeff’s discussion here at the SMPTE conference.
SESSION 4.3
TUESDAY 19 JULY PM
Author/Presenter: Matt Butler
Title: The Radial Rig Mk IV
Abstract
The Australian designed Radial Rig consists of a motion-controlled
pre-adjustable horizontal boom arm that rotates in a circular direction.
The rig can revolve at speeds from extremely low rpm for time-lapse
or low frame rates to moderate hi-speed (over 90 deg/sec can be
achieved in some set-ups).
A range of adjustable drop-arms can be attached to the camera end
of the selected boom length to provide the required camera reach
and lens height.
The entire rig can be operated in different configurations. Some
examples include fixed on a car roof mount (subject to vehicle build),
underslung upside down from a studio ceiling or location crane,
and also upright on a studio floor or an uneven location for certain
revolving shots where a circular dolly track would be impossible.
Biography
Matt has been involved in the film industry for over 30 years, commencing
as an assistant film projectionist with Greater Union Theatres.
He then joined J Walter Thompson advertising and was with them for
almost 20 years, starting in their photographic department, then
becoming an editor and later an agency TV producer.
While at J Walter Thompson he also shot numerous TVCs as an inhouse
cinematographer along with his own short films.
He now specialises in motion control and time-lapse cinematography.
He has been awarded seven Golden Tripods and the Ross Wood Memorial
Award from the ACS, and also the Byron Kennedy Award from the AFI
for his work.
SESSION 4.4
TUESDAY 19 JULY PM
Presenter: Takao Tsuda, Science & Technical Research Laboratories,
NHK
Title: Intelligent Mobile Robot Camera
Abstract
We have been developing a robot camera system with the aim of realizing
efficient program production in a studio as well as new forms of
video expression. We already constructed an "intelligent"
robot camera with pan, tilt, zoom, and focus servo emulating the
shooting techniques of professional camera operators. By mounting
the intelligent camera on a mobile robot pedestal, we have constructed
an intelligent mobile robot camera system. The mobile robot camera
is capable of tracking and shooting subjects with a subject detection
system utilizing face detection technology, even while moving.
Biography
Takao Tsuda received a master's degree in electrical engineering
from Osaka University in 1996. He joined NHK Science & Technical
Research Laboratories in 1996. He has developed an intelligent robot
camera as a new support system for program production. (The robot
can take shots as if it were a skilled professional camera operator.)
Mr Tsuda is now developing a mobile version of the robot camera
and a subject detection system for robot camera.
SESSION 4.5
TUESDAY 19 JULY PM
Author/Presenter: Mark Chiolis, Senior Marketing Manager, Grass
Valley
Title: Digital Cinematography – a mode to suit your requirements
Abstract
New Digital Cinematography cameras now make it possible to work
in a number of different modes to match today’s requirements.
Previously the only choice was to capture using fully processed
and color balanced modes, with heavy compression by the recording
VTR. While acceptable for some requirements, there is a demand for
higher quality and a workflow similar to that of a scanned film
frame, allowing for a familiar set of tools and environment for
the creatives. This paper will discuss new modes and their on-set
and post production workflows, including screening of material captured
raw and uncompressed from one of today’s new generation of
digital cinematography cameras.
Biography
Mark Chiolis is the Senior Marketing Manager, Strategic Marketing
& Business Development for Thomson Grass Valley, based in Burbank
California. Mark has been with Thomson Grass Valley (BTS, Philips
Broadcast) for over 12 years, both in sales and marketing capacities.
Mark has been in this industry for over 25 years, and has worked
in various aspects of television operations, production and post
production. His current focus is working on driving the Viper FilmStream
camera and Digital Cinematography directions for Grass Valley, as
well as working together with the film and production switcher groups
to assist development and introduction of new products.
SESSION 4.6
TUESDAY 19 JULY PM
Author: Iain Neil, Executive Vice President, Research & Development
and Optics / Chief Technical Officer, Panavision
Presenter: Nolan Murdock, VP Product Manager, Panavision
Title: Compound zoom technology, X300 zoom lens implementation
Abstract
Modern zoom lens applications demand extreme specifications including
very high zoom ratio, very wide angle field of view, compact space
envelope, etc that far exceed the capability of conventional zoom
lens designs. The limitations of conventional zoom lenses will be
discussed and several novel compound zoom lens designs will be described.
Biography – Iain Neil
Iain has been with Panavision for fifteen years, and is Executive
Vice President, Research & Development and Optics, and, Chief
Technical Officer. He has over 150 patents issued and applied for
in optical design. He has received eleven Academy Awards for Scientific
and Technical Achievement and two Emmy Statuette engineering awards.
In 1999 he received the Fuji Gold Medal Award for recognition of
his lens work, especially zooms. He is a member of the International
Society of Optical Engineers, the Optical Society of America, the
American Society of Cinematographers, SMPTE and the Academy of Motion
Picture Arts & Sciences.
Biography – Nolan Murdock
Nolan is VP Product Manager and has been with Panavision since 1990.
He has been involved in the design and deployment of Panalite II,
Kodak PreView, Panaflex Millennium, Panavised Sony 900 camera and
the new Genesis camera. He spends most of his time with customers
providing support for new product and reporting user feedback to
the engineering group. He has recently used the 300x compound zoom
lens on a Real Madrid soccer match. He has received an Emmy Statuette
engineering award. He is a member of the American Society of Cinematographers
and SMPTE.
SESSION 4.7
TUESDAY 19 JULY PM
Title: Digital Intermediate Panel
Chair: Sean Glasson
SESSION 5
What you really need to know is …
SESSION 5.1
WEDNESDAY 20 JULY AM
Presenter: John Ive, Director Strategic Planning, Sony
Title: High Definition takes off in Europe
Abstract
Europe is waking up to High Definition with several broadcasters
committed to broadcasting in 2005/2006. Some are calling this initiative
"Second Generation" High Definition. Key drivers include
the growth of full resolution flat panel displays. For transmission,
developments in DVB and video compression offer improved quality
at lower bit rates. For broadcast professionals, desktop editing
and reductions in product costs make HD production more attractive
and comparable with standard definition. This presentation highlights
the key technology developments making HD a more compelling proposition
for Europe and the approach to be taken by the first broadcasters
planning to be on air.
Biography
Currently Director Strategic Planning responsible for overseeing
the introduction of key technologies. He joined Sony in 1978 to
head up the European Research and Development activities and to
contribute to the transition to digital processing and IT based
technology. He has since undertaken several senior management roles
encompassing management, technology and marketing. Prior to Sony
he has worked for the BBC and Independent Broadcasting Authority
(IBA).
John Ive is a Fellow of the Society of Motion Picture and Television
Engineers (SMPTE), a Fellow and Silver Medal holder of the Royal
Television Society (RTS), a member of the FKTG in Germany, a member
of the IEE and a Chartered Engineer
SESSION 5.2
WEDNESDAY 20 JULY AM
Presenter: Alastair Gellatly, Acting Manager Broadcast Engineering,
Broadcast Planning Branch, Australian Communications and Media Authority
Title: Digital Radio Update
Abstract
This paper provides an update on the available digital radio technologies
including; Eureka 147 (DAB); Digital Radio Mondiale (DRM); and others.
The paper also touches on the latest on what is happening in relation
to digital radio in Australia and elsewhere in the world.
Biography
Alastair Gellatly is the Acting Manager Broadcast Engineering of
the Australian Communications and Media Authority (ACMA), overseeing
the technical aspects of regulating terrestrial broadcasting services,
both radio and television.
Alastair has over 18 years of experience in various aspects of broadcasting
and spectrum planning. This experience ranges from:
• the design and construction of transmission facilities for
television and AM and FM radio;
• planning the frequencies and technical characteristics of
radio and television services;
• conducting coverage surveys;
• undertaking spectrum planning for fixed microwave, cordless
and mobile telephone services; and
• developing the digital channel plans for the introduction
of digital television services in Australia.
Recently Alastair has been studying the options associated with
the introduction of digital radio.
SESSION 5.3
WEDNESDAY 20 JULY AM
Presenter: Tim Slate, Director of Product Marketing, Video Server
Division, Leitch Technology Inc
Title: MXF in 2005 - A Status Report
Abstract
Now that a year has passed since the launch of MXF at NAB 2004,
the scope of the remaining work required to implement such a broad
and complex standard is becoming clear. Manufacturers are just beginning
to tackle the inter-vendor issues that will take MXF file interchange
out of the laboratory. Customers are beginning to understand and
systematically describe the metadata and essence handling stages
required for their workflows.
All in all, the adage “80% done, 80% to go” is exemplified
by the transition from “done” on paper to “usable”
in the real world. Over the coming year expect to see islands of
interoperability slowly and painfully expand and eventually form
the infrastructure of universal file interchange promised by MXF.
Biography
As Director of Product Marketing for Leitch Technology's server
division, Tim Slate is responsible for leading the marketing strategy
of Leitch's key server business. A highly respected broadcast industry
veteran, Tim has an extensive track record in design engineering,
product management and marketing development spanning 20 years.
Tim joined Leitch from Omneon Video Networks, where he held the
role of vice president of marketing and directed the launch of the
company's new server system. Prior to his tenure at Omneon, Tim
held increasingly responsible positions in product marketing and
management at companies such as Harris Corporation and Textronix/GVG.
An active member of SMPTE, Tim holds a bachelor of science degree
in electrical and computer engineering from Oregon State University.
SESSION 5.4
WEDNESDAY 20 JULY AM
Presenter: Craig Norris, Business Consultant, Harris Software Systems
Title: Belts, braces, and a spare pair of trousers. Strategic planning
for disaster recovery.
Abstract
No-one could imagine the events of September 11, 2001, even in their
worst nightmares. And in more recent times and closer to home, the
Bali bombing and the Indian Ocean tsunami have jolted Australians
into accepting a new reality whereby bad things do happen. So how
should one go about protecting one’s enterprise from any kind
of disastrous event? This paper presents an approach for disaster
recovery planning as it might relate to the television and film
industries.
Biography
Craig Norris has worked in the television broadcast and print media
industries for 23 years. Fifteen of those years were with Sony Corporation
and another five years were with News Corporation subsidiaries.
Before broadcast television and print media, Norris started his
career as a Technical Officer with the Department of Civil Aviation,
where he gained a healthy respect for system redundancy and backup
procedures. He is now a freelance consultant, managing projects
for new technology implementation in the broadcast and telecommunication
industries.
SESSION 6
Plenary & Keynote
SESSION 6
WEDNESDAY 20 JULY AM
Presenter: Peter Symes, Engineering Vice President of SMPTE
Title: Technology & Business: Who Drives Whom?
Abstract
Technology can drive business opportunities; changing business imperatives
can create urgent demands for new technology. In an industry like
ours that is technology-intensive, both mechanisms are operating
continuously. The address will examine some of the changing forces
that affect our industry, and the people and the companies in it.
Biography
Peter Symes is Engineering Vice President of SMPTE and one of the
world’s foremost Broadcast Technologists. He gained his Bachelor
of Science degree with Honours in 1967 and began his TV career in
the engineering department of the BBC. Peter worked in product management
at Philips and Central Dynamics before joining Grass Valley in 1983.
He is now Manager Advanced Technology with responsibility for strategic
planning, intellectual property and technological liaison. Peter
represents Grass Valley in many organisations including SMPTE.
Symes holds patents and is the joint recipient of an Emmy award
for the architecture of the digital picture processor. He is a Senior
Member of the Institution of Electrical Engineers (IEE), a Fellow
of SMPTE and author of several books.
SESSION 7
Engineering your Future
WEDNESDAY 20 JULY PM
Panel Chair: John Maizels
SESSION 8
Sharply defined: Next steps in Compression
SESSION 8.1
THURSDAY 21 JULY AM
Presenter: Peter Symes, Manager Advanced Technology, Grass Valley
Title: It’s not just MPEG2 any more
Abstract
Image Compression now impacts every facet of the media business.
To date, the dominant format for video has been MPEG-2, and there
are at least hundreds of millions of MPEG-2 decoders deployed worldwide.
This sheer volume of decoders means that MPEG-2 will be with us
for many years, but there are applications where new decoders can
be contemplated if the benefit is sufficient to justify the cost.
There are also applications, such as digital cinema, where there
is not yet any significant deployment of decoders. For these applications,
more modern compression technologies can and should be considered.
The paper will review the major compression systems that have evolved
since MPEG-2, discussing their origins, features, benefits, and
possible limitations.
Biography
Peter Symes is Engineering Vice President of SMPTE and one of the
world’s foremost Broadcast Technologists. He gained his Bachelor
of Science degree with Honours in 1967 and began his TV career in
the engineering department of the BBC. Peter worked in product management
at Philips and Central Dynamics before joining Grass Valley in 1983.
He is now Manager Advanced Technology with responsibility for strategic
planning, intellectual property and technological liaison. Peter
represents Grass Valley in many organisations including SMPTE.
Symes holds patents and is the joint recipient of an Emmy award
for the architecture of the digital picture processor. He is a Senior
Member of the Institution of Electrical Engineers (IEE), a Fellow
of SMPTE and author of several books.
SESSION 8.2
THURSDAY 21 JULY AM
Presenter: Ray Treloar, Senior Engineer, Australian Communications
and Media Authority
Title: Compression Technology for Television Broadcasting
Abstract
This paper will discuss the impact of advances in compression technology
on digital television in Australia. Australian broadcasters recently
completed the roll out of digital television services in all metropolitan
markets and the rollout of digital services in regional areas is
continuing. Digital television services were made possible by the
development of MPEG-2 digital compression standards in the 1990’s.
The MPEG-4 Part 10 video compression standard is now being promoted
as a potential replacement for MPEG-2 in digital broadcast applications.
It offers improvements in compression performance which could allow
more services to be provided in a given bandwidth, but would require
viewers to purchase new receivers.
Biography
Ray Treloar is a senior engineer with the Australian Communications
and Media Authority in Canberra. He has been involved in the development
of standards and spectrum plans for digital terrestrial television
services in Australia since the early 1990’s, firstly with
the Communications Laboratory and, since 1999, with the Australian
Broadcasting Authority. He has also contributed to joint ACA/ABA
digital radio studies in 2003 and 2005.
SESSION 8.3
THURSDAY 21 JULY AM
Author: Neil Brydon, Director of Product Marketing, Modulus Video
Presenter: Rollin Stanford, Director Sales Asia Pacific/Japan, Modulus
Video
Title: Real Time HD AVC – Delivering Better Pictures
Abstract
MPEG-4 AVC technology is critical to the business case for delivering
bandwidth-hungry HD services. In fact, the case can be made that
AVC is even stronger for high-definition than standard-definition
(SD) content.
With several test projects in the works and multi-channel system
operators like DirecTV, BskyB, Canal+ and SBC announcing their desire
to implement MPEG-4 AVC to conserve bandwidth, it is now clear that
the MPEG-4 AVC standard has critical mass and is the platform for
efficient delivery of HD services.
This paper will outline the technology required to deliver real-time
HD encoding with support for AVC features and tools necessary to
deliver HD at the lowest bit rates. The paper will also explain
some of the important technologies, methods and tradeoffs that are
relevant to an operator; providing comparisons of the practical
results from the first real-time HD AVC products.
Modulus Video is developing new real-time HD encoding solutions
that will be able to compress the incoming 1.5 Gbps streams down
to 6 or 8 Mbps. That means content providers still see high-quality
video with only 1% of the original bits!
Biography
Neil Brydon joined Modulus Video in 2004 as Director of Product
Marketing. His focus is on the delivery of standard and high definition
MPEG-4 AVC video encoding platforms.
Prior to joining Modulus Video he spent over six years at Harmonic
Inc, in various product marketing roles directly associated with
the development and delivery of encoder products.
Before Harmonic, he developed and managed evaluation and selection
processes for new technologies at ITV, the leading commercial broadcaster
in the UK. Earlier, he had engineering roles at Thames Television
and Racal Avionics.
Mr Brydon received his B.Sc. Honors degree in Electrical and Electronic
Engineering from the Robert Gordon Institute of Technology, Aberdeen,
Scotland.
SESSION 8.4
THURSDAY 21 JULY AM
Presenter: Vlado Damjanovski, Editor / Publisher / Consultant,
CCTV Labs Pty Ltd
Title: Video and Image Compressions used in CCTV today
Abstract
CCTV, being the little sister of the Broadcast TV, started using
digital video in the last 5-6 years, but in its own specific way.
There are many differences between broadcast and CCTV, and some
of them might be very interesting to acknowledge especially for
the broadcast people.
It is fair to note that Australian CCTV industry is among the leading
CCTV powers in the world, both by innovative system design and applying
the latest technologies.
For example some of the very first digital video systems in the
industry have been designed and installed in Australia, or by Australian
companies overseas.
There are a variety of image and video compressions used in CCTV
today. This article gives a cross-section of the differences and
similarities among those.
Biography
Vlado Damjanovski is an author, a lecturer and a CCTV expert, known
to the Australian and international CCTV industry.
He has designed and commissioned a number of CCTV Systems around
Australia and overseas. He has also conducted a number of CCTV Seminars
throughout the country and overseas, having over 10,000 technical
people trained in many extensive seminars.
Vlado is the author of the book "CCTV" – a best
seller in the industry, rated with 5 stars on Amazon.com for over
5 years now. The latest edition of this book, which included chapters
on the new trends in CCTV – Digital and Networking –
was launched at the ISC West show in Las Vegas in April this year.
Vlado is also Editor and Publisher of the international magazine
dedicated to the CCTV industry – "CCTV focus" which
is distributed world-wide.
Vlado Damjanovski is also doing consultancy, system design and training,
both in Australia and overseas.
SESSION 8.5
THURSDAY 21 JULY AM
Presenter: Guenther Zurek-Terhardt, Datacasting Product Manager,
Rohde & Schwarz FTK
Title: Time Slice Mechanisms for DVB-H
Abstract
DVB-H is a new and exciting technology whose implementation requires
careful thought as the broadcast network, for the first time, directly
influences the power consumption of the mobile receiver.
The sending of data as video, audio or text as a series of data
packets which are time sliced is designed to maximise data download
whilst retaining a satisfactory power usage of the receiver. The
encapsulator where time slicing of the data is configured, is under
the control of the broadcast network not the mobile network operator.
This paper presents some ideas on different time slice considerations
to achieve this.
Biography
Born: 1961
Birthplace: Geldern, Germany
Study: Computer Science, University of Dortmund
1988 Working at Rohde& Schwarz Munich. Product development of
FM Radio-Data-System Encoder and Decoder.
1994 Head of R&D Software for Transmitter Systems. Product and
software development of Control Units for High-Power TV Transmitter.
1998 Head of Design Service Group at Rohde& Schwarz FTK in Berlin.
Setup of Datacasting activities to combine IP-Networks and Broadcast-Networks.
2003 Director of Sound Broadcasting and Datacasting. Product release
in 2005 of new FM High-Power transmitter and IP Data inserter for
DVB-H.
SESSION 8.6
THURSDAY 21 JULY AM
Presenter: Nick Fielibert, VP, CTO & Chief Architect Europe
& Asia, Scientific-Atlanta Europe
Title: Next steps in Compression
Abstract
This paper will talk about the new steps in compression focusing
on the H.264 or MPEG4-10 standard. We will look at the drivers for
moving to this technology. How it became a standard and how it is
implemented in products, both for the Headend as well as the CPE.
We will show the differences with the current MPEG2 standard and
how MPEG4-10 can evolve going forward.
The paper will also touch upon transitioning scenarios from MPEG2
to MPEG4-10 and how this will evolve for SD and HD. One of the important
applications is TV over DSL and we will describe some of the HE
architectures that are applicable, given the fact that a lot of
source material is MPEG2 based.
Biography
Nick Fielibert started his career in 1985 at Barco after graduating
from the University of Ghent, Belgium, in electronics engineering.
In 1992 Nick Fielibert joined Barco Communication Systems to start
the development of the Australian and Asian markets.
In 1996 he joined the management group of Barco Communication Systems,
where he was responsible for market development in the North American,
Asian and Australian markets.
In 2001 Nick Fielibert became Senior Vice President & COO of
BarcoNet n.v.
Since BarcoNet has been acquired by Scientific-Atlanta, Mr. Fielibert
is responsible for Europe & Asia in the function of Vice President
& CTO.
SESSION 9
Workflow & Assets
SESSION 9.1
THURSDAY 21 JULY AM
Presenter: Nicholas Hans, Product Strategy Director, Dalet Digital
Media Systems
Title: A new approach to digital news archiving
Abstract
The move to tapeless production environments creates new challenges
for the production and re-use of news archives. Too often, newscasters
focus their energy on the choice of a relevant storage system. However,
the true challenge lies in the consistent aggregation of descriptive
metadata and associated digital rights information. This paper discusses
several case studies and suggests a new approach to digital news
archiving – one that will get approval and support from both
production and management teams.
Biography
Nicolas Hans is Product Strategy Director at Dalet, one of the leading
independent software vendors for the broadcast industry. Nicolas
joined Dalet seven years ago as Product Manager to launch Dalet
TeamNews, a digital content factory tailored for broadcast news
production and interactive publishing. He managed the Dalet Product
Management team and then took responsibility for Dalet product strategy
in 2003.
Prior to joining Dalet in 1998, Nick served seven years as editor-in-chief
at Ziff-Davis Publishing and worked for BFM radio; a Bloomberg affiliate
where he hosted a bi-weekly radio show dedicated to the digital
revolution and launched the first interactive audio website.
Nicolas graduated from the ESG business school in Paris. He is a
regular speaker at international broadcast conferences and is fluent
in English and Spanish. French is his mother tongue but he loves
speaking Reunion Créole to his sons.
Session 9.2
THURSDAY 21 JULY AM
Presenter: Joe French, Senior VP of Sales and Marketing, Masstech
Group
Title: Choosing the best building blocks for a better business
plan
Working Smarter: Better Technology, Better Business
Abstract
This paper will outline several new approaches to demonstrate the
differences of WEB based designs vs. dedicated software applications.
It will explore architectures that treat your station as a “whole
of facility” truly integrating video servers, libraries, automation,
traffic, post production and remote facilities. It will also discuss
advances in distributed content movement, material handling, compact
all inclusive playout systems and WAN networking.
Biography
Mr French joined Masstech Group in 2002 with three decades of achievements
in management and new development for the broadcast communications
market. He served in key management roles at Encoda Systems and
Dynatech Video Group. He was involved in building some of the earliest
all-digital, fully automated, multi-channel broadcast systems. Mr
French earned his Bachelor of Science in Electrical Engineering
from the University of Tennessee and completed his Master’s
degree coursework in Computer Science at the Massachusetts Institute
of Technology.
SESSION 9.3
THURSDAY 21 JULY AM
Presenter: Nicholas Harper, Vice President for International Business,
Spectra Logic Corporation
Title: Storage Hardware Hierarchy in Broadcast Asset Management
Abstract
An Asset Management system usually involves several different types
of disk storage system of varying performance characteristics and
costs combined with a digital magnetic tape based archive and backup
in the form of videotape, eg. DigiBeta. With the exception of the
videotape, all the elements are based on technology developed for
the Information Technology segment with varying degrees of adaptation
to the needs of the broadcaster. This paper examines the elements
of this hierarchy with an eye to the requirements of each element
and the balance between system complexity and optimal cost with
a heterogonous collection of storage elements. It discusses whether
the current menu of storage choices is optimal for the broadcaster
and examines some new and emerging storage alternatives.
Biography
Nicholas Harper is the Vice President for International Business
for Spectra Logic Corporation; he was previously VP, Business Development.
In both capacities he has special responsibility for Spectra Logic’s
Broadcast and rich media business. Before joining Spectra Logic
in January 2002, Mr. Harper held a variety of engineering, sales
and marketing positions over a 17 year career with Cybernetics,
a US based storage company. He was educated at the University of
Oxford and the College of William and Mary where he received an
MA in Biochemistry and an MBA respectively. Mr. Harper is a Chartered
Financial Analyst.
SESSION 9.4
THURSDAY 21 JULY AM
Presenter: Chris Lennon, Program Manager Automation Solutions,
Harris Corporation
Title: Standardisation of Traffic/Automation/Content Delivery Communications
Abstract
The Broadcasting industry has suffered for years from proprietary,
often one-off interfaces that fall short of expectations when it
comes to enabling a flow of information between systems. Two specific
areas come to mind: event, or schedule-related data, and material
metadata/instructions. SMPTE's S22-10 Working Group is tasked with
not only standardizing the hundreds of interfaces currently in use,
but enabling new workflows that modern broadcasters demand between
their systems.
Biography
Mr. Lennon has worked in the Broadcasting industry for over 20 years,
the majority of that time on the software systems side. He has had
personal involvement in well over 100 interfacing / integration
projects between broadcast systems. He currently works at Harris
Corporation as Program Manager for the Automation group. He is Chair
of SMPTE’s S22-10 Working Group, whose task is to standardize
communications between Traffic, Automation, and Content Delivery
Systems.
SESSION 9.5
THURSDAY 21 JULY AM
Author: Bob Edge, Principal Engineer Grass Valley, Thomson Broadcast
and Media Solutions
Presenter: Peter Symes, Manager Advanced Technology, Grass Valley
Title: Building MXF Based Production Systems
Abstract
The original set of MXF standards is now complete for all practical
purposes. Equipment manufacturers are building MXF-capable products
and end-users are installing production systems based on these standards.
A few unexpected issues have been found. The inability to transport
the full range of VBI data and Ancillary Data packets in MXF are
examples of these unforeseen difficulties.
The MXF model is not as rich as some of the established and de facto
file format in a few areas. Existing video servers and their established
file formats usually support a broad range of VBI line types and
Ancillary Data Packets. A SMPTE project is now underway to resolve
this issue.
The presentation will describe the issues, some of the solutions
that were considered, the project SMPTE has undertaken to resolve
the issues, and the status of the resulting standards development
effort. It will also offer some suggestions end-users can consider
using to minimize their MXF integration issues.
Biography
During his career, he has worked as an Engineer, Architect, Project
Leader and Program Manager on several products. Some of his early
efforts include desktop computing systems, peripherals and high-performance
graphics terminals. He then participated in research projects that
used high-bandwidth data networks to transport video streams. Following
these projects, he worked on additions to the Profile server product
line.
Bob Edge is now active in television standards work, including participation
in the Society of Motion Picture and Television Engineers (SMPTE),
a few European Broadcasters Union projects, the AAF Association,
ITU-R, and other organizations.
Bob Edge is a Fellow in the Society of Motion Picture and Television
Engineers. He is the author of several technical papers describing
the application of IT technology in television production. Bob Edge
has a bachelor’s degree in Computer Science from Oregon State
University.
SESSION 9.6
THURSDAY 21 JULY AM
Presenter: Gerry Brooks, Customer Support & Training Manager,
Rexel Australia Video Systems
Title: MXF in Acquisition
Abstract
Media-less recording has finally become possible. Since recording
in the camera began, it has been a linear process, the shot required
has been at the end of the tape when the tape is at the beginning.
Since digital acquisition, editing and post-production have taken
advantage of computers and Internet Technology(IT) to transform
these processes into instant access, non-linear actions, with consequent
savings in time and economy.
Now with Solid State Memory (Flash Memory) becoming affordable and
with increasing capacity, the possibility of acquisition becoming
non-linear along with the editing process is being realised. The
key to greater efficiencies lies with the adoption of MXF, the Materials
Exchange Format standardised by SMPTE. This Paper describes one
such solution.
Biography
Gerry started in commercial TV in the UK, has been in Australia
since 1968 and has worked for Channel Nine Network; Channel 10 Network.
He has held his current position as Training and New Technology
Manager with Rexel Australia Video Systems for 12 years (formerly
GEC Video Systems) supporting Panasonic Broadcast equipment as well
as Accom and Leitch Broadcast Products within the TV and Film Industry.
Gerry has been a member of SMPTE since the early '80s and has been
on the Board of Managers since 1990. He has served as Secretary/Treasurer
and Chairman of the Australia Section, and is currently International
Governor for the Asia/Australia Region.
SESSION 9.7
THURSDAY 21 JULY AM
Presenter: Fabio Gattari, President, Etere
Title: From Booking to Billings
Abstract
We talk of solutions from ingest to playout in an operational and
engineering environment, but we are content to consider disparate
platforms for traffic, scheduling, automation, asset management,
logging, reconciliation and billing.
Today the broadcast and cable television industry, with its demanding
multi-channel and central-casting requirements has, more than ever,
need for fully integrated, unified systems to increase and improve
continuity, productivity and quality of service.
Industry professionals are looking to solutions that pull these
disparate platforms together in a single unified environment from…
Bookings to Billings. A single environment which in between these
two bookends encompasses ingest to playout. This presentation will
examine the requirements of such demanding systems and some of the
practical aspects and challenges of implementing them.
Biography
Fabio Gattari is ETERE founder and president, the first Italian
company producing TV broadcasting software and automation systems.
The company has been founded in 1989.
In 1992 he created the first audio digital broadcasting system based
on PCs, local network connected.
Mr Gattari’s strength is the ability to interface and interact
at high level with the business world, resulting in several key
partnerships both in Italy and abroad. He is skilful in managing
different aspects of big projects. His efforts and the intimate
knowledge of the product have been instrumental for the constant
growth of ETERE software sales worldwide.
SESSION 10
Moving Pictures? Moving data!
SESSION 10.1
THURSDAY 21 JULY PM
Presenter: David Scammell, Managing Director, Sohonet Ltd
Title: Does your Network Deliver?
Abstract
Production and Post-production are increasingly relying on networks
to move data and images both locally and internationally. With the
advent of digital capture, improved workflows, and international
co-productions this method of transfer is increasingly becoming
business critical. There are many solutions for this, some using
the internet, some using network accelerators, others using leased
lines. This paper will examine the various solutions, and explain
the issues affecting performance, along with some practical solutions.
It will also consider the business issues and the dependency upon
the various solutions.
Biography
Dave joined Sohonet in 2001 after leaving Quantel, where he had
been responsible for Strategic Development. He graduated from Brunel
University with a degree in Physics and Electronics, and brings
an understanding of engineering issues to the commercial environment
of the media production industry. He has considerable international
experience, and this has been used to expand Sohonet’s world-wide
operation dramatically in the last 5 years, including the purchase
in 2004 of FIBRE Pty Ltd. In 2003 Dave successfully negotiated a
Management Buyout of Sohonet, making Sohonet the largest independent
company working in this field.
SESSION 10.2
THURSDAY 21 JULY PM
Presenter: David Strachan, Director of Sales, Evertz Microsystems
Ltd
Title: All in the Glass – Fiber Optics for Broadcasters
Abstract
Fiber optics cables are needed wherever distances exceed the limit
for coax cable. This is especially common for new HDTV installations.
Fiber also enables you to multiplex many signals of different types
on to a single fiber link. The link can even be bi-directional.
This article describes how to design a system to link two facilities
with multiple video, audio and data channels in both directions.
Topics include single-mode and multi-mode fiber, Time Division Multiplexing
(TDM), Wave Division Multiplexing (WDM), Coarse Wave Division Multiplexing
(CWDM) and Dense Wave Division Multiplexing (DWDM).
Biography
David Strachan is Director of Sales for Evertz Microsystems Ltd
in Burlington, Ontario, Canada. He has held positions as International
Sales Manager and Director of Marketing at Leitch Technology and
as Director of Sales for M/A Electronics Ltd. He has worked in the
fields of AM and FM radio, optics, satellite communications and
broadcast video. Mr Strachan is a Graduate of the former Institute
of Electronic and Radio Engineers in the UK and has authored numerous
articles on analogue, digital and HDTV television. In his spare
time he likes to fly, sail, ski, play guitar and drive his model
steam engine.
SESSION 10.3
THURSDAY 21 JULY PM
Presenter: John Wood, System Development Manager, R&D, Microwave
Radio Communications
Title: Managing the High Definition (HD) Transition Bandwidth Requirements
for Outside Broadcast (OB) Microwave Links from the Field
Abstract
The digital migration from standard definition (SD) to high definition
(HD) program content has forced the broadcast and news production
industry to re-look at how they handle higher bandwidth distribution
transport streams with the same amount of RF bandwidth and efficiency.
This paper looks at some of the terrestrial microwave radio distribution
techniques from the field that will allow for higher contribution
bit rate (>80 Mbits) applications. It will show the radio tradeoffs
associated with the given application in regard to bit rate versus
bandwidth and C/N threshold requirements, in relation to microwave
path distances.
This paper will also look at the application workflow requirements
for network connectivity requirements using a high data rate application.
Biography
John is currently the System Development Manager for Microwave Radio
Communications located in North Billerica, Massachusetts U.S.
Currently, he is actively involved in the development of microwave
radio communication system requirements for the broadcast and public
safety industries.
He is also an active member of the “ATSC sub committee for
remote ENG communications”.
He has over 18 years of Microwave Radio communications development
experience and has held numerous positions as a “Development
Manager” to a “Senior Level Systems Designer”
and “Product Engineer”.
He has received his Bachelor of Science in Electrical Engineering
from the University of Massachusetts and has specialized his graduate
course work in the field of microwave / wireless data communications.
SESSION 10.4
THURSDAY 21 JULY PM
Presenter: Shigeyuke Yamashita, Senior Electrical Engineer, Sony
Corporation Japan
Title: 10 Gbps Real Time Interface for 1080P and 4kx2k images
Abstract
As 1920×1080/50P, 60P and 4kx2k image formats are beginning
to emerge, the demand for a next generation high-speed serial interface
beyond 1.485Gbps HD-SDI is increasing. This has been met by a small
size, low power and low cost “10G Real Time Interface”
using conventional 10Gbps devices. The “10G Real Time Interface”
can cover not only the 1920×1080/50P, 60P formats but also
all the formats in SMPTE 274M and the 4096×2160/24P format.
This interface seeks to address all the issues of multiplexing many
kinds of signal formats such as 1080P and 4kx2k into 10Gbps.
Biography
Shigeyuki Yamashita joined Sony in 1984, where he has been engaged
in the development of high-speed electrical and optical serial interface
for professional video equipment. He promoted the standardization
of SMPTE 292M in 1996 and SMPTE 372M in 2002.
SESSION 10.5
THURSDAY 21 JULY PM
Presenter: Jonathon Beavon, Marketing Director, Broadband Internet
Group, NDS UK
Abstract
There are many technologies that will be discussed at this conference
that enable the content to be presented in ever more compelling
formats (HD, surround sound) with increasing quality (new compression
technologies) and convenience of access (TV delivered over broadband).
But the economics of this entire industry are essentially based
on the fact that all of the participants in the value chain have
to get a return on their investment. This is only possible with
effective content protection. This paper describes how content protection
technologies can be used in a range of ways to ensure that the value
chain is protected in the digital era.
In particular, the presentation will discuss methods being used
to protect content delivered to IP Set Top Boxes (IPTV), Personal
Video Recorders, Home Networks and Mobile Devices.
SESSION 10.6
THURSDAY 21 JULY PM
Presenter: Andy Sheldon, Executive Director Industry Marketing,
Sun Microsystems
Title: Changing the Economics of TV Distribution through IPTV
Abstract
As telecommunications companies plan their entry into the world
of TV distribution employing their IP networks they will need to
assemble compelling content and services to differentiate themselves
from existing pay TV services. Different business challenges face
mainstream programmers and content owners from those of independent
producers, however, both sources of programming represent valuable
revenue opportunities for the next generation of TV services.
This paper reviews the economic drivers of content distribution
and offers an alternative distribution model to pay TV services
that exist today that favor the content owner, carrier, and consumer
alike.
Biography
Andy Sheldon is the executive director industry marketing at Sun
Microsystems. Sheldon manages market focussed product strategy,
market research, and marketing programs for Sun's products and services
in the telecommunications and media industries globally. Prior to
joining Sun Microsystems, Sheldon held a number of senior marketing
roles at Microsoft Corporation. Sheldon was responsible for the
applications and services initiatives at Microsoft TV and was senior
director of product marketing at MSN TV.
SESSION 10.7
THURSDAY 21 JULY PM
Presenter: Danny Wilson, President, Pixelmetrix Corporation
Title: Interoperability of Broadcast and IP Infrastructures for
Reliable Delivery of Television Services
Abstract
As MPEG-2 broadcast systems have matured, the complexities of Program
and System Information Protocol (PSIP) and other flavors of SI have
grown. The rapid advancement of IP networking technology has enabled
many new markets in broadcast and on-demand video. As new players
enter television delivery markets, they are expected to quickly
deploy complex yet highly reliable content to consumer delivery
systems comprising of a mix of IP and broadcast technologies. Their
familiarity with IP and Telco networking structures and protocols
often leaves them ill-prepared for the complexities and interoperability
issues in mixed standards and mixed vendor broadcast environments.
Biography
Danny Wilson is founder and President of Pixelmetrix Corporation,
a manufacturer of preventive monitoring solutions for digital broadcasters.
Previously, Mr Wilson was an executive with Hewlett-Packard’s
Communication Measurement Division. In this role, he was responsible
for the introduction of the MPEGScope, transport stream tester,
and the world’s first ATM/ B-ISDN Test System, which accelerated
the development and deployment of ATM technology worldwide. A native
of Edmonton, Canada, Mr Wilson earned a degree in Computer Engineering
from University of Alberta.
SESSION 11
Running the Biz: Projects, Integration & Testing
SESSION 11.1
THURSDAY 21 JULY PM
Presenter: John Smyth, Manager, Patchworks Communications
Title: The Role of the Systems Integrator
Abstract
Since the advent of computer based editing systems in the early
nineties there has been a continuing move to inhouse post production.
Production houses have performed offline and then online post within
their own premises rather than outsourcing to the television stations
or larger facilities.
This development necessitated the emergence of independent individuals
and organisations providing technical services such as configuration,
installation, additions and upgrades shared by a number of smaller
facilities.
In the broadcast arena, the role of the systems integrator evolved.
Considering that even the smallest facility may have the same number
of signal types as a television station, system integration is only
a matter of scale.
As a job description, and a vocation, the systems integrator brings
global knowledge into the job. Tried and true methods, pitfalls,
custom solutions, lead times and timelines are second nature. Most
importantly, the systems integrator represents you and your facility
with a long term view.
The devices you employ is a decision you make. How the devices interconnect
and interrelate is the role of the systems integrator.
Biography
John Smyth is manager of Patchworks Communications, a Systems Integration
House with over 70 sites under management in the Sydney metropolitan
area.
Since 1989 John has constructed a variety of facilities from two
suite production houses to twenty rack outside broadcast vans.
SESSION 11.2
THURSDAY 21 JULY PM
Presenter: Aude Vignelles, Digital End-to-End Test Manager, Foxtel
Engineering
Title: The role of the system integrator in complex engineering
projects
Abstract
For the successful delivery of a new functionality, product or solution,
there will be, as its starting point, a project definition derived
from business requirements through to specifications, design until
final integration and commissioning. The list of tasks emerging
from each of the stages of the project lifecycle, will have to find
its owner: will it be an in house resource or external? Several
factors will influence the final decision on whether to outsource
or not, such as the short term resource requirement, the skills
required, the sensitivity surrounding the project often driven by
commercial and competitive goals, etc.
Biography
After graduating from ENSICA with a degree in Space and Aeronautical
Engineering, Aude started work as a Test Manager in the European
Space Agency at their test centre in the Netherlands. Following
6 years at ESA, culminating in the successful integration and test
campaign of the spacecraft XMM, she was enticed to move to the private
sector in London to work as a Management Consultant for various
Engineering projects including the system integration and testing
of the worlds premier DTT company ONdigital. She then moved to Australia
in search of sun, warmer seas and better surf. Here she had the
opportunity to be responsible of the End-to-End integration and
testing of the Foxtel Digital Platform.
SESSION 11.3
THURSDAY 21 JULY PM
Presenter: Dominic Stone, IBM
Title: The show must go on! Project Outsourcing can be good
SESSION 11.4
THURSDAY 21 JULY PM
Presenter: Brian Petersson, Engineering Manager, Codan Broadcast
Products
SESSION 11.5
THURSDAY 21 JULY PM
Presenter: Chris Purdy, Application Engineer, Tektronix Cambridge
Limited
Title: Time to Insight
Abstract
Testing existing MPEG and especially the new compression systems,
has become an exhausting and complex task. Digital TV operates at
many different layers and levels, on many stream formats and file
container types, which can be carried over many physical and RF
interfaces.
New hand-held devices and video phones with different delivery systems,
present even more test challenges.
A problem which shows in one layer, medium or device, may have a
cause far removed elsewhere. Diagnosis must be with the minimum
of fuss, and time. Test strategies and equipment must guide to fast
and correct solutions.
Biography
Chris Purdy is a chartered engineer and full member of Institution
of Electrical Engineers with over 30 years experience of the Broadcast
TV industry, and works for Tektronix in Cambridge, UK.
Purdy’s experience covers design of test equipment –routing
matrices,TV standards converters, digital framestores, special effects
systems and post production editing equipment, as well as being
director of an Educational TV Studio.
He is a member of DVB Commercial module setting digital TV standards
and also MHP interoperability group of the DVB. His current work
includes working on test solutions for the new advanced video compression
formats.
SESSION 11.6
THURSDAY 21 JULY PM
Author: Dave Guerrero, VP of Advanced Technology, Videotek
Presenter: Tim Slate, Director of Product Marketing, Video Server
Division, Leith Technology Inc
Title: Monitoring and Quality Assurance of High Definition Serial
Digital Video Signals
Abstract
Testing and monitoring high definition video requires a specific
awareness of signals whose roots lie in RF (data rates which can
exceed 1.5 Gb/s). The HD signal is a series of packetized data that
includes video information, ancillary data, and embedded audio.
Engineers need a thorough knowledge of the mentioned disciplines
in order to be efficient in the marketplace. This paper will discuss
the considerations and methods required to properly test and monitor
high definition serial digital video, its metadata and other embedded
information.
Biography
As Director of Product Marketing for Leitch Technology's server
division, Tim Slate is responsible for leading the marketing strategy
of Leitch's key server business. A highly respected broadcast industry
veteran, Tim has an extensive track record in design engineering,
product management and marketing development spanning 20 years.
Tim joined Leitch from Omneon Video Networks, where he held the
role of vice president of marketing and directed the launch of the
company's new server system. Prior to his tenure at Omneon, Tim
held increasingly responsible positions in product marketing and
management at companies such as Harris Corporation and Textronix/GVG.
An active member of SMPTE, Tim holds a bachelor of science degree
in electrical and computer engineering from Oregon State University.
CONFERENCE REGISTRATION
Conference & Exhibition registration for this year's event
is being handled by Expertise Events.
To register online, visit the conference website www.smpte.com.au/conference.php
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