NEWS
Kayak
March 2008
With the increase in use of High Definition, CT have updated their Portable Production Units (PPU’s) to meet the need for HD production. The 1ME system is based around Grass Valley’s Kayak multi format production switcher which, when coupled with a Quartz 32 x 32 HD/SD router enables it to process either high definition or standard definition signals. The Kayak can take up to 48 HD or SD inputs. CT’s 1ME has been upgraded to 4DVE Channels.
The Larger unit is the Kayak 2ME, this has all the features of the 1ME but allows a separate output mix. This can be used if a separate screen mix or record output is needed whilst utilising the same inputs. It also allows more complex mixes and use of keying or DPM’s to provide high quality complex productions.
Quartz’s router allows monitoring of all inputs via our Engineering bridges. These come equipped with HD/SD LCD monitoring and a Leitch TVM900 waveform vectorscope. Each bridge allows full control of up to 4 cameras and extra router panels enable producers or lighting designers to independently monitor any of the signals. A composite router is also incorporated into the system to facilitate the routing and processing of PAL signals.
Lynx Technik PC programmable frames handle all the processing and signal distribution. These frames allow hot swappable cards, so even in the event of an emergency, the system remains ‘live’ whilst problems are rectified. The whole system is locked together by Evertz MSC500 time code and sync pulse generator. A range of full broadcast test signals are also produced by this unit.
The images are viewed on a 42” native HD Panasonic LCD monitor, and manipulated by a Zandar HD/SD Predator multiviewer. This allows 12 HD and SD inputs to be combined and viewed simultaneously, with tally and UMD information, in any configuration imaginable. 2 of these monitors can be joined together for larger productions.
Comms can be used as either 2 or 4 wire via an RTS PS31, Clearcom TW12 and an RTS SS324 2 to 4 wire converter. With a bespoke mixing unit built to enable individual production talkback levels to and from cameras, to be adjusted to suit each individual operator.
A PC and integrated KVM allows set up of the router, processing and multiviewer, making on site changes quick and easy.
