A Winchester-based computer systems developer has been named as the preferred technology supplier for a Fremantle Media gameshow format currently airing on CBS in the US.

Million Dollar Password is a modern version of the 1960s programme Password in which contestants team up with celebrities to try and work out secret passwords in order to win cash prizes.

Technology developer Ionoco devised and implemented a self-contained on-air graphics system for the first series of the show that provides and controls gameplay functionality, lighting, sound and effects.

The system will now be used on series two on CBS and, as part of the agreement, any broadcaster around the world buying the format from Fremantle will also be “strongly advised” to use Ionoco as computer systems supplier.

The deal was secured through Kristen Stabile, the executive in charge of production on Million Dollar Password for Fremantle Media USA.

Ionoco launched earlier this year following the amalgamation of three companies, G-Graphics, Randomaker and TV2GO. Founder and chief technology officer Chris Goss said it was fantastic to have secured a contract with such a prestigious show in such a short space of time.

In the first format deal, Ionoco will provide technology on at least 65 episodes of a version of Password for the Spanish market.

The main control system for the show, based around Ionoco Ionologic software and Ionocore hardware, generates on-air graphics for various gameshow rounds.

It also controls secondary systems that generate graphic feeds to the on-set projectors as well as the game play feeds to the contestant monitors and the information feeds to the host and producers.

Ionoco, which specialises in developing graphics and control systems for the broadcast, lottery and gaming markets, has also worked on Are you Smarter than a 10 Year Old?, Deal or No Deal, Power of 10 and Gala Bingo.

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