BINGEN AM RHEIN, Germany—Broadcast Solutions, one of Europe’s largest media system integration groups, has acquired Dutch camera support specialist Egripment BV, and its rental subsidiary Egripment Deutschland GmbH. Both will retain their well-established names and market identities while expanding the portfolio available from Broadcast Solutions.

For almost 50 years, Egripment has developed and manufactured high-end camera support systems, including cranes, dollies, remote heads, and any other tailormade solutions for television, film, and live events. The company combines in-house design and manufacturing capabilities to deliver tailor-made solutions for any production need. This approach will continue under the ownership of Broadcast Solutions, with Philippe Tresfon staying as managing director of Egripment and guiding future progress, the company said.

With this acquisition, Broadcast Solutions says it has strengthened its position as a global provider of complete production solutions. Egripment will now be represented through Broadcast Solutions’ offices worldwide, providing customer support across Europe and the Middle East.

Egripment HQ and Egripment Deutschland, based near Amsterdam and Cologne, operates an international rental division that services major events worldwide. Its extensive inventory includes cranes, stabilized remote heads, and specialist grip equipment for the most demanding productions.

As part of this acquisition, Egripment Deutschland will manage Birds Camera Solutions, a Broadcast Solutions company specializing in advanced camera systems, creating a comprehensive, full-service rental portfolio under the Egripment brand. The Egripment brand will be led by Philippe Tresfon (CEO) and the subsidiary in Germany by Philip von Senden (COO) and Martin Dreesbach (CTO). In addition to his role as CTO of Egripment Deutschland, Martin Dreesbach will also continue his responsibilities as Senior R&D Product Manager within the Egripment | Broadcast Solutions Group.

“We are very excited by this acquisition and the new opportunities it offers,” says Maximilian Breder, managing director and COO of Broadcast Solutions Group. “Egripment is a perfect fit for us: it brings unique manufacturing capabilities, world-class reputation, and a global rental offering that perfectly complements our existing services. Under the Egripment brand, we will integrate the solutions of Birds Camera Solutions, enabling us to offer a complete range of camera movement systems – from standard setups to fully customised solutions, available worldwide.”

“By widening our portfolio we have the opportunity to create even greater customer impact, providing a single focus for the whole range of technological requirements in today’s media world,” Breder said. “Growing the rental business is particularly important to us, because it brings us into direct contact with the creative users of the technology, the directors and operators. That brings us really valuable knowledge and understanding, which will be reflected across all we do as a group.”

Philippe Tresfon, CEO of Egripment, who will continue to lead the company within the Broadcast Solutions Group, adds: “Our customers and partners can be assured that the Egripment name will remain synonymous with quality, innovation, and service. As part of Broadcast Solutions, we can operate faster, reach further, and continue to develop the groundbreaking solutions that set us apart in the market.”

The commercial terms of the acquisition are not being disclosed. Visitors to IBC 2025 can find Egripment in its traditional location, 12.F20. Broadcast Solutions is in the outside exhibits area, on stand O.A23.

BINGEN, Germany—Broadcast Solutions, one of Europe’s largest media systems integration groups, has announced that it worked with NEP Germany to design and implement a complex and innovative remote production environment for the new sports network Dyn Media. NEP Germany will operate it as a managed service for Dyn.

Dyn Media was founded by Christian Seifert, former CEO of the Bundesliga (German football league), who runs it as a joint venture with major publisher Axel Springer, the companies reported. The goal was to create a new media home for the German fans of the leagues and sports beyond soccer. Basketball, handball, volleyball and table tennis are among the games on its initial programming roster. 

NEP Germany is the production service provider of all games for the German basketball and handball league at Dyn. 

The coverage relies primarily on remote production. Working with NEP Germany, Broadcast Solutions has built six units it calls venue kits. Each has a core rack in a flight case with three stage boxes, connected over fiber. Typically six cameras plus minicams feed into the core rack, along with microphones and other audio sources, all using SMPTE ST 2110 standard equipment.

This compact set-up means the entire system for an outside broadcast can get to site in a single VW Crafter van, and be set up and run by just a few people onsite. The result is not only very cost-effective coverage, but it also hugely reduces the carbon footprint of the operation, the companies said. 

All signals are routed to NEP Germany’s headquarters in Munich, where Broadcast Solutions has built two large control rooms around Grass Valley Kula switchers, a central equipment room, and a network operation center (NOC) handling the central management of signal transmission from all arenas, to and from Cologne, as well as to the cloud and OTT platforms.

The NOC allows flexible allocation of venue kits to the production control rooms in Cologne and Munich, and several Riedel Simplylive Production Suites serve as production control systems for smaller productions or can be used as replay facilities, the companies said. 

Audio in the venues is controlled remotely from sound quality control (SQC) rooms and the normalized signals are then dispatched to the production control rooms. Dyn is free to send commentators to the event, or there are voiceover rooms as part of the new facilities for off-the-tube commentary. Audio mixing largely uses the Prodigy from DirectOut Technologies.

Dyn Media is based in Cologne. NEP Germany and Broadcast Solutions have also designed and built one large gallery and three small control rooms in its headquarters, plus the associated audio facilities. These share the hardware installed in Munich, so Dyn is free to place its editorial team in either city and have exactly the same functionality, while controlling capital costs and minimising energy consumption.

NEP Germany and Broadcast Solutions worked together to design the entire system. Broadcast Solutions then took complete responsibility for installation and commissioning in both Munich and Cologne, covering not just the audio and video equipment but the whole facility, including air conditioning, fire protection, and UPS and backup generators. The six venue kits were built in Broadcast Solutions’ workshops in Bingen.

“Dyn Media was eager to begin distributing its live sports content using an innovative, fresh approach,” said Zlatan Gavran, managing director of NEP Germany. “They entrusted us with their entire technical operations, and we needed to work with a systems integrator that understood these complex and forward-looking requirements. 

“Broadcast Solutions proved to be the perfect partner and we collaborated on a design that was practical, resilient and cost-effective,” Gavran explained. “They had the resources to design and build everything, from the venue kits to the flexible control room architectures, delivering a complete solution.”

“A big thank you to the great team at Broadcast Solutions! Their active support in setting up the production infrastructure for Dyn Media was an important building block in the development of our channel,” said Andreas Heyden, CEO of Dyn Media GmbH. “The smooth cooperation and high level of commitment has been instrumental in enabling us to build one of the most advanced production environments in Europe in just a few months. We are very grateful for this partnership and we are looking forward to many more successes in the future together.” ‘

For more information visit www.broadcast-solutions.de. 

BINGEN, Germany—Broadcast Solutions, one of Europe’s largest media systems integration groups, will bring two of its recently completed outside broadcast trucks to IBC2023 between Sept. 15 to 18 at RAI Amsterdam.

The trucks can be seen in the outside exhibit area 0.A01.

One of the trucks is a large articulated truck custom built for SuperSport; the second unit is a fixed-chassis 12 camera unit based on the Broadcast Solutions Streamline family to be delivered to Remotion. 

During IBC2023, Broadcast Solutions will also be demoing its innovative meshLINK wireless transmission system.

SuperSport IP2 is the second unit supplied to the South African broadcaster, following the IP1 unit in June of this year. The company’s intelligent design process allowed it to pack as many as 19 workplaces into the single-expanding trailer.

The SuperSport IP2 is fitted out with Sony cameras and production switcher, Calrec audio, Vizrt graphics and EVS replays. Internally, IP2 is all IP, with SNP processors from Imagine Communications for SDI/IP conversion.

Like the SuperSport vehicle, the second OB truck from Broadcast Solutions on display at IBC, the Remotion S8L, is fully Ultra HD capable. 

The Remotion S8L unit is built on an 18 ton MAN chassis, with bespoke coachbuilding and internal layout to support 10 to 12 workplaces, including cameras by Grass Valley, a Sony production switcher, Lawo audio console and Riedel intercom. Despite extended delivery times for the basic vehicle, thanks to the flexible standard format, Broadcast Solutions was able to complete the project in less than 11 months.

Both vehicles use the hi human interface management layer from Broadcast Solutions. This radical new approach to system control, which emphasizes simple and intuitive operation as well as comprehensive automation, will be demonstrated on the Broadcast Solutions dedicated hi human interface stand inside IBC2023, 10.D41, the company said. 

During IBC2023, the company will also be demonstrating the meshLINK high quality wireless video transmission platform in the outside exhibits area. 

Developed by Broadcast Solutions, this transforms wireless camera planning and execution through the use of an IP mesh network. Each unit acts as a transmitter, receiver and repeater at the same time, and multiple cameras operate on the same frequency. It provides excellent image quality through the use of H.265 encoding, at up to 4k Ultra HD, with connectivity either over 12G SDI or 2SI.

The outside exhibition location will also include partner companies Thum + Mahr, Birds Camera Solutions and TVC.

“We are showing two outside broadcast trucks at IBC this year, because we continue to see strong business in sport and entertainment,” said Stefan Breder, CEO of Broadcast Solutions. “Through our Streamline products and our bespoke designs we meet any requirement, from a simple SNG van to the biggest truck in the world.

“Those same system integration and construction skills are also used in the many fixed facilities we build for our clients,” Breder added. “We draw on our long and successful experience to understand our clients’ real requirements and develop technology-agnostic solutions that best meet their commercial, creative and engineering needs. IBC is a great opportunity to showcase our skills and discuss future projects.”

Visit Broadcast Solutions at outside area 0.A01 and stand 10.D41 at IBC2023.

To find out more about the company’s products and services visit www.broadcast-solutions.de. 

BINGEN AM RHEIN, Germany—Broadcast Solutions has released meshLINK, a high-quality wireless video transmission solution offering state-of-the-art video encoding, full-duplex IP and mesh networking in a rugged, straightforward system, the company said today.

The new meshLINK wireless solution provides low-latency performance –down to 45ms in HD and 75ms in 4K—100Mb/s data throughput and one to four HD encoding channels on one frequency, the company said.

The solution combines the latest RF technology developments with ultra-low latency UHD HEVC encoding. A true duplex IP-based wireless system, meshLINK supports a wide range of functions, such as RCP and telemetry, for live broadcasts, live production, newsgathering and event coverage. Intercom, return video, prompter and other functions can be integrated in future IP-based applications, the company said.

In its basic configuration, the meshLINK can be a Tx/Rx wireless point-to-point solution that enables bidirectional IP traffic and link monitoring. This configuration works with a radio and encoder on the transmitter side and a radio and decoder on the receiver side, the company said. 

When more radios—called nodes—are added, the system become a mesh network, operating on a single frequency. The network is scalable, self-forming and self-healing. When using mesh functionality, a radio serves as a transmitter, receiver and repeater at the same time, it said.

Signal routing is automatically and dynamically selected to ensure optimal performance without compromising signal stability. Data can be entered and retrieved at any node in the network. In the event a Tx/Rx line is blocked, all other nodes in the mesh can take over signal delivery by acting as a relay, it said.

The meshLINK allows every device in the network to be configured and monitored from any node using a web browser. As an option, real-time adaptive video encoding is available. It automatically adapts video bandwidth (bitrate) to ensure the best video quality.

More information is available on the company’s website.

BINGEN AM RHEIN, Germany—Austrian broadcaster Servus TV is employing a new strategy to handle its season-long production of Formula 1 racing, a new air freight container mobile production studio that was developed by NEP Germany and Broadcast Solutions. This is meant to help with the travel schedule of Formula 1 and establish quick setups at different locations.

The POD is housed in an air freight container equipped with extensions and is primarily used to produce interviews and expert talks captured by two wireless cameras teams and an EB team around the track or in pit lane. Broadcast Solutions claims that it fits the essential technical components usually in a OB van in its small space.

The POD’s initial size is 7.5 m2 and can be enlarged to 14 m2 with its two extensions. It provides four workstations for an audio engineer, video engineer and two editorial staff, as well as a central technical rack with two 38 RU. The unit can monitor the video and audio signals of the camera teams, while also controlling the intercom signals and the Motorola radio links.

During productions, audio and video signals are transmitted directly from the track via dark fiber to the Servus TV broadcasting center in Salzburg, Austria. In-ear monitoring of presenters, reporters and camera teams is also managed in the POD to avoid audio delays.

The POD features WISYCOM transmitters that work with digital audio in the Dante format. Intercom signals are processed in AES67, while further analog audio signals come from the Office Containers. Prodigy multiformat converters from DirectOut convert analog audio and AES67 to Dante and vice versa. Additional gear in the POD includes the Yamaha QL1 digital audio console with Dante integration, Riedel’s MicroN system and the Broadcast Solutions hi human interface.

“Because of the excessive travelling involved in the production of Formula 1, we needed a highly mobile, transportable solution that could provide all the technology for our productions in the smallest possible space and still make it comfortable to work in,” said Mark Overkamp, technical director at NEP Germany. “Together with Broadcast Solutions, with the POD, we have developed a solution that, in combination with a sophisticated stagebox concept, optimally supports us in the current productions but also leaves options open for the future.”

The POD was first used at the Bahrain Grand Prix on March 28. It will next be used at the Italian Grand Prix on April 18.

BINGEN, Germany—As the demand for UHD productions increases across Europe, NEP is adding a new UHD capable production truck to its fleet. Specifically, NEP the Netherlands has partnered with Broadcast Solutions GmbH for the deployment of UHD 2, which is based off NEP Sweden’s UHD 1, a large, 24-camera UHD OB truck.

The UHD 2 operates with 24 UHD cameras and provides 27 workspaces. The trailer is a double-expando and offers more than 45 m2 of working space plus VIP accommodation with extra-large UHD screens. It also features a large variety of monitors in the production area and has 8x slomo desks with access to 6x EVS XT4 servers. Grass Valley LDX 86N cameras and Karrera video switchers are installed in both production areas. The Riedel MicroN platform, meanwhile, provides video switching, multiviewing and digital glue options. For audio, the truck features a Lawo mc2 56 Mark III audio console with 64 faders, as well as a Nova73 audio matrix.

The UHD 2 truck can be deployed all across Europe, whether operating solo or serving as the backup to the UHD 1 truck (and vice versa).

NEP the Netherlands tested out the UHD 2 in April to produce an Eros Ramazotti concert in Amsterdam. It also worked with the UHD 1 truck for the production of the Ice Hockey World Championships in Slovakia.

BINGEN, Germany—The Telia Esports Series launched in Finland at the end of April and is broadcasted weekly on Finnish national television and internationally through Twitch. The virtual studio utilized for these weekly broadcasts was helped put together with the use of Broadcast Solutions technology.

Virtual studio tools from Broadcast Solutions were applied to pre-existing studio and remote facilities. Telia is using the state-of-the-art remote production hub from Broadcast Solutions that it had previously deployed to cover Finnish ice hockey to assist with the virtual studio. The remote production hub is located 2km from the studio and gaming facility.

For the actual set, Broadcast Solutions brought in technology from virtual reality company Zero Density and applied it to an already existing virtual set. Telia is able to change the virtual set look to its design for its esports program in about 10 seconds. Other productions at the virtual studio are done in 1080i50, whereas the esports production is done in 1080p50; the remote production hub handles the transition for production.

The virtual studio will be the set for an upcoming esports tournament hosted by Telia and the company Assembly.

BINGEN, GERMANY—Two vans are better than one for NEP Switzerland, as the company recently acquired the UHD 42 OB Van, a 4K/UHD unit from Broadcast Solutions GmbH; this is NEP Switzerland’s second Broadcast Solutions truck.

UHD 42 is based on Broadcast Solutions Streamline family of OB vans and is an example of the new Alphaline model. The Alphaline OB vans offer two production areas with up to 23 workplaces, including large slomo areas and VIP areas for producers, moderators and guests with additional monitors.

The van can work with up to 10 Grass Valley LDX 86N 4K/UHD cameras. Additional gear includes a Grass Valley Karrera K-Frame with 8 M/E; a Lawo mc256 console with 48 faders, as well as a Lawo Nova73 compact router; and four EVS XT 4K units.

NEP Switzerland acquired the new truck for work on the 2017/2018 seasons of the Swiss Raiffeisen Super League. It is currently being used for producing Swiss Premier Football League games in 4K/UHD.

BINGEN, GERMANY—NEP Switzerland is taking the field for the upcoming Swiss Super League soccer season with its first full 4K OB van, the Streamline S 12 4K. Developed by Broadcast Solutions GmbH, the new van offers a new room concept for the production area; works with up to 12 UHD cameras; and can be manned by up to 20 operators.

The van comes with 10 Panasonic AK-UC3000 cameras, with options for Super SloMo/Mini Cameras upon request. Grass Valley has provided its Karrera 8 M/E video switcher, while Imagine Communications contributed its Platinum 256x328 video router. Four EVS XT4K servers were installed in the truck, as well as a pair of EVS Epsio Paint and a single EVS XFile3. VSM contributed both the control and tally system, while the truck features both Axon and Imagine Selenio modulars. The audio comes from Riedel and Lawo, with Riedel’s MicroN serving as the audio –video core processing system and its Riedel Riface for the wireless talkback, while Lawo’s mc256 and Nova73 work as the audio mixer and matrix respectively. Riedel also provided its Artist 128 and MediorNet Stagebox System for the intercom matrix. Imagine’s Platinum SX Pro 144x21 heads was installed as a multiviewer.

The van was developed in less than six months, according to the NEP and Broadcast Solutions, and will be ready to serve during league broadcasts in July.

BOTHELL, WASH.—European-based companies Broadcast Solutions and Euro Media Group signed an agreement to join the Alliance for IP Media Solutions. With the addition of these two companies, AIMS reports them as the first international systems integrator (Broadcast Solutions) and first technical service provider (EMG) to join the alliance.

AIMS promotes the adoption, standardization, development and refinement of open protocols for media over IP, putting an emphasis on VSF TR-03 and TR-04, SMPTE 2022-6 and AES67.

“As the first international systems integrator and technical service provider, respectively, to join AMS, Broadcast Solutions and EMG bring new insight and experience to our membership as we seek to foster the adoption of true standards in the migration to IP,” said Michael Cronk, AIMS chairman.

BINGEN, GERMANY—Broadcast Solutions GmbH is the latest company to join the Alliance for IP Media Solutions, signing its membership agreement during the recent 2016 NAB Show.

AIMS is an organization that promotes the adoption, standardization, development and refinement of open protocols for media over IP. Specifically, AIMS supports IP industry standards that have been developed using SMPTE 2022-6, VSF TR-03 and VSF TR-04.

According to AIMS, Broadcast Solutions is the first international systems integrator to join the organization. Other companies that have previously signed up with AIMS includes AJA, Evertz, Harmonic, SAM, and the Telos Alliance.