Magna Systems has designed, built and delivered Southeast Asia’s first full 4K/Ultra HD (UHD) and IP processing outside broadcast (OB) truck for Singapore’s largest media network and content creator, underscoring a major step forward in the region’s live production capabilities.
The new OB truck replaces an ageing vehicle that had reached end of life, with the broadcaster seeking a technologically advanced platform capable of leap-frogging traditional broadcast workflows. A key objective was to move decisively into IP-based production, while ensuring the truck could support premium 4K/UHD output and remain adaptable to future requirements.
Magna Systems was selected to design and build the truck from the ground up. 4K/UHD capability was central to the brief, positioning the vehicle at the forefront of high-quality live production. At the same time, the truck was conceived as a test bed for IP workflows, allowing the broadcaster to deepen its expertise in SMPTE ST 2110 design and implementation.
The truck features full internal 4K/UHD processing, with both 4K/UHD and HD copper and fibre interconnections to reduce cabling complexity and speed up OB deployment. It supports remote production over long distances and maintains HD compatibility to ensure interoperability with other OB providers and uninterrupted HD-to-4K/UHD migration.
The truck is also compatible with campus systems and contribution networks and can be integrated into an on-site theatre environment. Full IP workflows were designed to be intuitive for operators, while the overall infrastructure is futureproofed to support larger, more complex events.
To meet these demands, Magna Systems specified and integrated 20 full 4K/UHD cameras — 16 wired and four wireless — along with full 4K/UHD replay, 4K/UHD super slow motion and hybrid HD support for events that require it.
Matthew Clemesha, Group CEO of Magna Systems, said, “Our team collaborated closely with the coach builder and client to architect the truck from the ground up, including all electrical systems and interior finishes.
“We handled the technical design, importation, registration and installation, and completed full configuration with support from manufacturers and Magna group personnel.”
Magna Systems also supported training, site testing and live OB events, while project managing suppliers from initial fabrication through to first production. The truck is now typically used as an external production hub at Singapore’s National Stadium and other major venues. It was also the main OB truck for republic’s National Day production earlier this year and will be deployed for international sporting events, including the Toyota World Para Swimming Championships.