The systems integrator will install Harmonic Spectrum X in ZDF’s playout systems located in Mainz and Berlin
ZDF, a German public service broadcaster, has assigned systems integrator BFE to enhance its existing ingest and playout video server infrastructure.
For this project, BFE will replace all main, backup and test playout systems in Mainz, as well as a disaster recovery (DR) playout server in Berlin, with Harmonic Spectrum X media server system that supports ingest, production and playout workflows. The ingest systems will utilise Harmonic Spectrum X components with Harmonic MediaGrid storage system, alongside Adobe Premiere Pro Creative Cloud, for editing and error correction.
Additionally, the new servers will be integrated within the existing Marina automation solution from Pebble Beach Systems and Avid Interplay media asset management (MAM) system.
BFE has successfully demonstrated this proof of concept to ZDF, and started working on the detailed specifications in February this year. In this phase, BFE is working alongside the German broadcaster to create a migration concept to ensure “safe” on-air exchange of the video servers while maintaining the performance of the running system at any time.