ATG Danmon Completes File-Based Production Support System For Intervideo

ATG Danmon announces the completion of a file transcoding and standards conversion system for Intervideo, Londons longest established independent broadcast post-production house.

Intervideo Technical Director Gerry Wade at the new file ingest, transcoding and quality-control desk

We do whatever is necessary to repurpose client content and deliver it either in the file or tape domain, explains Intervideo Technical Director, Gerry Wade. The perception of file-based workflow is that it must be easier than working with video tape. In the old days, the only question you had to ask was whether the client wanted PAL or NTSC and what the tape format was. Now we have to handle a multitude of different codecs, wrappers, metadata requirements and audio bit-rates. Every job becomes totally bespoke. The outgoing file will go straight into the client server and be automatically checked to ensure that it complies to the customers exacting specifications.

The bulk of our encoding work was performed in three Apple FCP suites but our volume of work dictated a more efficient solution. We looked at various encoding and transcoding products and identified AmberFin iCR software running on high-specification servers. This offered us much greater flexibility to meet each clients needs via a unique mix of user operation and automated workflow.

We decided to invest in a complete turnkey solution from ATG Danmon, including computers, software and auxiliary hardware. ATG Danmon pre-installed and tested the system and managed the integration, set-up and initial training. ATG Danmon was a logical partner for this project given the companys proven experience providing file-based broadcast systems over many years. ATG Danmon also manage the support which includes remote log-in to deal with any issue very efficiently. I dont have to chase a call centre halfway across the world if a complication arises.

The complete installation occupies a standalone control desk which is connected to our storage network. It consists of an iCR ingest server on the left which allows us to create a file from tape in practically any codec and wrapper. This also has some dedicated editing functionality. On the right is an iCR transcode server which allows us to convert a file from one type to another, or manage the metadata or repackage it.

The system also has Vidcheck file analysis software integrated though the iCRs Unifier which automates the transcode and QC workflow. Also installed is iCR player which allows us to review, in baseband, any file along with any error data from Vidchecker displays along the players time line. Files can also be edited at this point if necessary. This makes the process of file creation, quality control and human review very efficient.

The system enables us to deliver, among other things, DPP-compliant files which become mandatory from October for anything going to the BBC, BSkyB, Channel 4, Channel 5 or ITV.

The AmberFin iCR platform enables content producers, post-production facilities, broadcasters and transmission service-providers to deal with high volumes and true-to-source high-quality pictures at the same time. Unique to the iCR Platform, AmberFin's UQC automated processes integrate third-party verification tools to enable efficient and effective decision-making and new levels of confidence in the processes of file creation and transformation. At IBC AmberFin will be showing a new file-based standards conversion product.

Vidchecks Vidchecker automatically checks the video quality of file-based content, intelligently correcting luma, chroma and RGB. It also conforms audio peak and audio loudness levels to ATSC/CALM and EBU requirements.

About Intervideo

Situated between Maida Vale and the iconic Abbey Road Studios, Intervideo (http://www.intervideo.co.uk) has been offering clients technical excellence and unrivalled customer service over nearly four decades. The company was formed in 1977 by founder and current Managing Director Trevor Nash, who set the benchmark principles of technical excellence and customer services which continue to be applied.

Intervideos passion of sharing knowledge and exploring new ways to constantly improve the its portfolio of services has been appreciated and enjoyed by clients and employees alike. The company prides itself on attention to detail when handling clients content and on building personal relationships with customers.

As one of the UKs major independent players in broadcast post production, Intervideo continues to meet the ever changing and challenging demands of the industry.

About ATG Danmon

Part of the Dan Technologies Systems Integration Division, ATG Danmon (http://www.atgdanmon.co.uk) offers a comprehensive range of services including workflow-design, project-planning, equipment installation, software-configuration, commissioning, documentation, on-site training plus ongoing support and maintenance.

ATG Danmon pioneered the transition from videotape to the file-based technology now used throughout the industry. It has also assisted many clients in the construction of high-definition studios, master-control rooms and playout facilities, as well as the upgrade of existing SD systems to HD.

Embracing tomorrows technology, ATG Danmon delivers maximum value through close co-operation with customers, leading to mutually beneficial long-term relationships.

Dan Technologies System Integration Division operates from offices in the United Kingdom, Denmark, Germany, Norway, Spain, Sweden, Dubai and Vietnam.

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