Creative Technology makes the leap to IP ST 2110 with solutions from Imagine and Panasonic

With its sights set on completing its plan to transition to full production via SMPTE ST 2110 IP, production services company Creative Technology (NEP Worldwide Network) has implemented a solution comprised of Imagine Communications’ Selenio Network Processor (SNP) and the Panasonic Kairos IP video production platform.

Kairos allows Creative Technology to handle “extremely” complex productions and deliver them in multiple screen sizes, resolutions and aspect ratios. That’s where the Imagine SNP comes in, providing Kairos with connectivity, control, external ST 2110 processing, gateways, audio signal management and PTP versatility. Together, the two solutions offer “powerful functionality and operational simplicity” that is “easily” deployed in hybrid and IP environments.

Specifically, Imagine Communications’ Selenio is responsible for providing Creative Technology with a high-density SDI input and output ramp for Panasonic’s next-generation IP live video production platform. Together with Kairos, Selenio can provide conversion for a large number of SDI sources and multiplex them onto a single fibre connection, eliminating the need for an external COTS switcher.

In addition, if required, Selenio can handle ST 2110 to SDI conversions, including 12G SDI, as well as up-conversion, down-conversion and cross-conversion between HD/UHD and SDR/HDR formats. It can also be used as an HDR-capable production multiviewer, SNP-MV, which can integrate content from different video formats and HDR systems into a coherent viewing environment.

Kairos and Selenium in operation

Creative Technology is already using its Kairos/SNP integrated control systems for large corporate events, virtual conferences and sports venues. One relevant use case was the use of a single SNP and Kairos to replace the numerous switchers and other equipment in a DP World Tour (formerly PGA European Tour) mobile unit.

Guilhem Krier, head of new business and market development at Panasonic Connect Europe, is pleased that this combination is bringing joy to its users: “Creative Technology is a key Panasonic customer and a KAIROS Training Partner, and we are delighted to be part of this implementation together with Imagine Communications who is part of the KAIROS Alliance Partners program. Panasonic is relying on selected KAIROS Alliance Partners to easily expand KAIROS’ functions through carefully tested and approved third-party devices and software such as the Selenio Network Processor. Through the exchange of technical info between our two companies, we can ensure the best experience and offer peace of mind for our customers like Creative Technology, particularly when it comes to ST 2110 interoperability.”

Meanwhile, Mathias Eckert, SVP and GM of EMEA and APAC at Imagine Communications, welcomes Creative Technology’s use of Selenium: “It is good to see a prestigious customer like Creative Technology seize the benefits that SNP brings in realizing standards-based IP networks. With its integrated PTP versatility, density of processing and, of course, cost-effectiveness, SNP plays a vital role in matching high functionality and creative freedom with operational simplicity.”