ITN made a strategic investment in Sony’s scalable live production MLS-X1 switcher – an important step in the broadccaster's transition towards an IP-first, software-defined approach.
ITN, the UK’s broadcaster specialising in daily news and current affairs, has made a significant investment in Sony’s scalable live production MLS-X1 switcher. Considered a strategic move, acquiring the switchers is an important step in ITN's transition towards an IP-first, software-defined approach, strengthening its production capabilities for the future.
The decision to invest in the MLS-X1 switcher comes as ITN undertakes a review of its Channel 4 news operations. It gives the company the opportunity to align with evolving broadcast technology, but also maintain high production standards, its main concern. The MLS-X1 switcher is designed to integrate directly with existing broadcast infrastructures, giving ITN the flexibility and control needed to adapt to future challenges.
Networked Live – Macro Functions and Conditional Actions
Part of Sony’s growing Networked Live ecosystem, the MLS-X1 switcher supports the integration of external devices using southbound communication protocols for network messaging, simplifying the production process. Southbound here refers to communications with lower-level network components such as switches and routers.
The MLS-X1 improves macro capabilities so that operators can execute complex production tasks more efficiently and save steps. Macros using the Flexi-Pad, Utility/Shot Box or 10-key Pad module will record operational sequences, and then store and assign them to the desired buttons. Macros are useful in live environments where time is limited, operators are under pressure and errors cannot be undone. Macros can also be used to record menu operations.
The ability to dynamically resize and reposition keys also widens the scope for creativity in live broadcasts. The new conditional actions are still another way to add control over production elements, ensuring that ITN can deliver competitive content and maintain consistency. When using these actions, if certain conditions are met – such as selecting a specific cross-point assignment or pulsing a certain GPI command, then a switcher event is triggered. The GPI signalling protocol allows the switcher to send commands to external devices.
Conditional actions are used to add logos to individual camera feeds, or changing a specific bus if a certain signal is selected. By automating functions in complex situations, operators can devote more attention to the on-air output.
Scalable Configurations
As ITN prepares to implement the MLS-X1, the company looks forward to the potential improvements the switcher will make in its news production processes. For instance, using Sony’s Dual Simul function and scalable configuration, multiple programmes can be produced from a single control panel by assigning the necessary number of processing units for each production.
The MLS-X1 can handle multiple simultaneous productions such as 4K(UHD)/HD multi format production, or Host feed with Unilateral feed, typically required for sports live productions. The Dual Simul function allows all variations to be produced with one panel and one crew, or multiple panels and crews, as the program requirements demand. The switcher will play a role in the upcoming revamp of Channel 4 News’ production control facilities at ITN, set to go live later in 2025.
Also, the switcher helps keep process latency to a minimum for live event production, important for use with large LED displays due to lip sync errors seen at live events. A minimum delay output mode for SDI-only configurations is now supported.
Positiong ITN for the Future
ITN's decision to select the MLS-X1 was based on a competitive tender process, where Sony demonstrated its value and an understanding of ITN's operations. This collaboration is expected to enhance ITN's production capabilities, leading to more dynamic and engaging news coverage.
Jenny King, Head of Technical Production at ITN said, "Beyond a technology refresh, this investment is about positioning ITN and Channel 4 News for the future. Using the MLS-X1 switcher, our expert team can continue delivering compelling news stories with greater efficiency and creativity, while giving us the technical and workflow flexibility we need as our output continues to evolve." pro.sony
