Riedel forms communications backbone for Ruptly’s new OBs

It includes the installation of the MediorNet media network and Artist digital matrix intercom system

Two Ruptly’s outside broadcast (OB) vehicles have been fitted with Riedel Communications’ MediorNet media network and Artist digital matrix intercom to support the decentralised and redundant signal routing and communications backbone. Both vehicles — an OB van and a digital satellite newsgathering (DSNG) vehicle — offer equipment optimised for 4K/Ultra HD (UHD) productions, including live coverage of news, events and sports, as well as cinematic-style documentaries.

Ahmet Cakan, CTO of Ruptly, pointed out that the decentralised routing approach of Riedel’s MediorNet “makes it ideal for the rigors of live broadcasting, and delivers cost savings for 4K/UHD productions”.

“MediorNet not only reduces single points of failure, but also creates powerful operational efficiencies by allowing us to place physical I/Os closer to where they’re needed,” he explained. “Then, integrated processing capabilities including embedding/de-embedding and up/down conversion reduce the need for single-purpose peripheral devices.”

Ruptly’s MediorNet network consists of five interconnected MicroN media distribution devices with four of them managing signal distribution and processing, and one providing virtual multiviewer capabilities. With decentralised routing provided by MediorNet, all audio and video signals can be distributed between connected nodes in the OB truck, the DSNG van, and MediorNet Compact Pro stageboxes that can be placed wherever they are needed.

An Artist 32 digital matrix intercom mainframe enables crew communications for each vehicle. The Artist intercom supports four RSP-2318 SmartPanels and three Bolero wireless beltpacks, with intercom signals distributed by MediorNet.

Both vans have made their debut at an international football tournament in Russia, and Cakan described that the performance of MediorNet “was more than satisfactory”. He concluded: “We know we can count on MediorNet to deliver the perfect blend of high-quality output and reliability for even our most demanding live productions.”