Video Europe puts £1.25m into outside broadcast units

OB3 will be a double-expanding unit that will accommodate 16 Sony HDC-2500 cameras, three EVS XT3 servers and six XD Cam or HD Cam recorders.

It is also being equipped with a Miranda hybrid router, a Sony MVS-7000X 3ME vision mixer and a Calrec Omega 5.1 mixing desk.

Video Europe director Matt Marner said OB3 would be able to work across a range of genres, including sporting events, light entertainment and concerts.

He added that OB3 and tender unit OB4 will be unbranded, making them suitable for cross-hire. OB4 will offer multiple Avid or Final Cut Pro positions as well as shared storage and EVS connectivity.

Both units, built by C2S Systems, are due to be operational by 1 May and will join Video Europe’s two existing OB vehicles: an eight-camera production unit and a truck that accommodates EVS, Avid and Final Cut Pro systems.

C2S systems manager Jonathan Lyth added: “The main challenge is to accommodate the high level of equipment in a small double-expanding OB footprint whilst providing operational comfort.

“Because this unit will need to work around London, it can operate with only one of its sides expanded if ground space is restricted.

“Access to equipment is critical, because key items such as EVS and cameras will be rigged per job, rather than permanently installed – so the layout incorporates safe, easy access to the three main racks from a hydraulic sliding platform.”