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The centralized Harris HD graphics workflow solution allows the RTS team to create designs that can be used efficiently in any graphics environment across the facility with minimal user intervention — including character generation, branding, news and promo editing. The rollout is being handled in conjunction with local Harris dealer Videolink AG.

"In the context of our migration toward HD, it was crucial for RTS to implement a centralized solution to handle the graphics of our live and playback programming, as well as our post production, in order to reduce our costs and allow our graphic artists to work seamlessly from different locations," said Christophe Petit, head of the graphics management (operations department) at RTS. "The Harris graphics solution addresses all of our requirements, helping to provide a strong identity to our channels with the use of high-quality images, and a centralized management tool that delivers functionality far beyond the scope of this specific project."

The Harris^® Connectus™ media management system was deployed at RTS to provide centralized graphics media asset management. Connectus manages the central RTS graphics database and library, and all graphical elements and designs, as well as version management and system health across both the playout and live networks. The Direct Control 2™ remote control interface directs and controls all of the Inscriber^® G7™ integrated HD/SD graphics systems.

The RTS playout area is driven by the G7 solution and IconStation™ channel branding system, providing support for on-air, IP and continuity activities. The design area includes Inscriber G5 and G7 character generators, as well as IconStation technology for building and testing templates for playout. Content is distributed via Connectus to the playout and live, on-air graphics systems. The director preparation area comprises G-Flow tools, including the new G-Flow Titler for the easy integration of graphics.

On the live network, the studio and the mobile studio system are driven by the G7 system, with sports and news graphics supported by a combination of the G7 and G5 solutions. RTS mobile units are also using a mix of the G7 and G5 solutions for live event production. G-Flow tools support the auto-promotion, news, multimedia and montage areas of the network by integrating Inscriber graphics into the post-production workflow, and working with both Avid^® Media Composer^® and Apple^® Final Cut Pro^®.

"We have provided RTS with a comprehensive graphics solution that operates as a centralized workflow, is controlled through a common GUI and is versatile enough to handle a wide range of signals from SD to HD," said Mathias Eckert, vice president of sales and service, Europe and Africa, Harris Broadcast Communications. "New technology updates were developed by Harris to support this project, and these will soon be released to the industry so other broadcasters can benefit from dynamic graphics, streamlined workflows and increased operational efficiencies."

This project is linked to a larger playout upgrade to which Harris has provided a number of NEXIO AMP^® video servers.

Harris Broadcast Communications offers products, systems and services that provide interoperable workflow solutions for broadcast, cable, satellite and out-of-home networks. The Harris ONE™ solution brings together highly integrated and cost-effective products that enable advanced media workflows for emerging content delivery business models.