Two-way IFB System
TheCue is a highly flexible, digital communication system, designed for many broadcast functions and is perfectly suited for high-definition ENG IFB functions.
TheCue answers the call to fill a void in the marketplace with the transition from NTSC to ATSC transmission causing the loss of the PRO audio channel embedded in the transmission signal. This method was a commonly accepted practice for providing field/talent IFB communications in the past.
Using proven wireless technologies, TheCue provides two independent, secure, bi-directional cueing channels and private LAN connectivity to each individual ENG truck, via most CDMA or GSM networks.
When TheCue is configured to operate independent of your station’s DTV signal and ENG microwave, your truck has continuous audio and IP data connectivity from the moment of dispatch, even if the story is miles outside your station’s coverage area. Download scripts or even connect to your station’s VLAN while on the go.
TheCue was designed to meet today’s challenging news demands, by starting with a “clean piece of paper” and incorporating features requested by news directors and other broadcast professionals. What has come up time and again as much needed capabilities were: private communications to individual remote units (that are also protected from competitive eavesdropping), the ability to provide contact closures at both ends of the path and the ability to send data both to and from the studio.
Where many other companies work in software, we’ve incorporated a blend of hardware and software to provide a platform that can be scaled, as the user requires, meaning you don’t have to buy features that you don’t need.
As an IFB system, TheCue stands apart from competitive products because of its flexibility and low latency.
For ENG applications, TheCue uses proven, reliable, high-speed 3G wireless networks EVDO(CDMA) and HSDPA(GSM)) as a means of connecting the studio and the field with the latest IP technology. This allows TheCue to work in areas that a station’s over-the-air signal can’t reach.
TheCue’s multiplexer circuitry, allows for bi-directional audio transmission, tally closures and data transmission. Users in the field can access a station’s LAN to be able to upload scripts for review. The high quality audio circuitry provides a redundant audio backhaul from the field.
In cases where one-way communication is acceptable, TheCue can be equipped with an optional ATSC tuner card to receive audio sent from the station, via their ATSC broadcast signal. The production audio must be encoded into the MPEG2 transmission stream as a pre-cursor to support this low cost solution. Field communications can be established via cellular phone, land-line or other telephone circuit. This solution is similar to the NTSC PRO channel method of establishing communications.
TheCue chassis utilizes a robust construction and low profile front panel design with the thought of being deployed in a mobile environment and the space limitations typical of that scenario. As well, TheCue units take up only 1RU of prime rack space (especially important in mobile production units).
Balanced, Phoenix type audio connections and high-quality RF connectors complement the rear panel design.
As well, the front panel design incorporates extremely robust switches and selectors to provide years of trouble-free operation, adequate ventilation for today’s intensive remote environments and a highly reliable power supply round out the features of this unique device.
For more information, please complete our information request form or call us at 888-DSIRFTV. Please allow 24 hours to respond to on-line information requests.
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