Case Studies

Pro64 Network Installed in Rome’s Videotime Studios

Live TV, 24/7 Operations

Mediaset, Italy’s main television broadcaster, installed an Aviom Pro64 network to transport and distribute audio signals in its new studio in Rome. Videotime, the technical division of the Italian network, chose Aviom for the television studio because after evaluating several possible solutions they found that the Pro64 products were easier to design with, set up, and operate than the alternatives. They were introduced to Aviom’s products by Aviom’s Italian distribution partner, Sisme S.P.A.

Audio/video designer Alberto Cotronei, and his colleague Armando Marendino designed the system with five 6416i Input Modules, eight 6416o Output Modules, two 6416dio Digital I/O Modules, and two MH10 Merger Hubs. They set up the network to run in Auto Mode at 48kHz. In Auto Mode, the network accepts up to 64 audio signals from any point in the network and distributes them to an infinite number of output locations. Settings can be changed at any input or output module in the network using Pro64's simple front-panel user interface. No complex computer programming is required. The two MH10 Merger Hubs are used to create parallel connections within racks and to simplify wiring across the system.

The Pro64 network sends audio to the main console in the audio room, to the PA system in the studio, and into the broadcast console.

Three-Way Digital Split

At Mediaset Studio 5, all audio signals in the network are distributed to the main console in the audio control room, to the PA system in the studio, and into the broadcast console. The Pro64 network has proven its reliability in the new studio, an application that requires 24/7 usage. There have been no problems or service issues in the eight months that Videotime has been using it.

Videotime emphasized the value of the digital audio network over a traditional analog one. Cotronei says, "Considering all the accessories needed to complete a traditional analog system—connectors, boxes, cables, patch bays, and labor—the cost is similar to the Aviom system, but with Aviom, we have several benefits: the hum disappears, and it is much easier and less expensive to expand the system." Cotronei concludes, "In general, our work is simpler." Videotime plans to expand this installation into its other studios in the near future.