Tag: Mentoring

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Top Live Broadcast Providers, Overview: CP Communications, NEP, Broadcast Solutions, Gearhouse Broadcast, & Gravity Media

There are Many Live Broadcast Event Companies out there, all with their own range of services.  Following is a short overview of some of them.  Feel Free to chime in with others…..

CP Communications is an audiovisual and live event production company that provides services for sports and entertainment events. They specialize in live event production, audio and video equipment rental, and staging and lighting design. The company offers a range of services, including:

1. Live event production – live event production services for sports, music, and entertainment events. This includes production planning, camera coverage, audio and video mixing, and on-site technical support.

2. Audio and video equipment rental -offers a range of audio and video equipment rental services, including cameras, microphones, speakers, and projectors. They also provide on-site technical support for equipment setup and operation.

3. Staging and lighting design – staging and lighting design services for live events, including custom stage design, lighting installation, and video projection mapping.

NEP Group is a leading provider of production services, engineering solutions, and media management for live sports and entertainment events worldwide. NEP Group provides a wide range of services, including:

1. Live event production – production services for sports, music, and entertainment events. This includes production planning, camera coverage, audio and video mixing, and on-site technical support.

2. Remote production – remote production services for sports events, allowing broadcasters to produce live events from a centralized location. This includes remote camera control, audio and video mixing, and on-site technical support.

3. Media management – media management services, including content storage, archiving, and distribution. This includes video editing, metadata tagging, and asset management.

4. Technical support – technical support services for audiovisual equipment and systems, including equipment rental, maintenance, and repair.

Broadcast Solutions is a global provider of production services and engineering solutions for sports, music, and entertainment events. The company offers a range of services, including live event production, remote production, and media management.

Gearhouse Broadcast is a global provider of production services and engineering solutions for sports, music, and entertainment events. The company offers a range of services, including live event production, remote production, and equipment rental.

Gravity Media is a global provider of production services and engineering solutions for sports, music, and entertainment events. The company offers a range of services, including live event production, remote production, and equipment rental. Gravity Media also provides specialized solutions for specific industries, such as esports and motorsports.

The differences between the above competitors include their range of services, geographic coverage, and industry specialization. It is recommended to evaluate the features, capabilities, and pricing of each provider before making a decision.

101, AI, Best Practices, Cloud Editing, Collaboration, Digital Platforms, Mentoring, Moving Forward, Project & Production Management, Technology, Training

Wiki Collab

Wiki collaboration refers to a collaborative process of creating and editing content on a wiki platform. A wiki is a website or online platform that allows users to create and edit content collaboratively. Wiki collaboration can be used in a variety of contexts, including education, research, business, and community building.

Some of the benefits of wiki collaboration include:

1. Collaboration – Wikis promote collaboration among users by allowing them to work together to create and edit content.

2. Easy accessibility – Wikis can be accessed from anywhere with an internet connection, making it easy for users to contribute and access content.

3. Version control – Wikis typically offer version control, which allows users to track changes and revisions to the content.

4. Transparency – Wikis are transparent, meaning that all changes made to the content are visible to all users. This promotes accountability and encourages users to contribute responsibly.

5. Knowledge sharing – Wikis can be used to share knowledge and information with a community of users, which can be beneficial for education, research, and business purposes.

To collaborate on a wiki platform, users typically create an account and log in to access the content. They can then create and edit pages, add images and videos, and collaborate with other users. Some wiki platforms offer features such as discussion forums, chat rooms, and task management tools to help users collaborate more effectively.

There are various wiki platforms available, including:

1. Wikipedia – The world’s largest and most popular wiki platform, Wikipedia is a free encyclopedia that anyone can edit.

2. MediaWiki – An open-source wiki platform that powers Wikipedia and many other wikis.

3. Confluence – A wiki platform designed for business and team collaboration, Confluence offers features such as task management, calendars, and chat rooms.

4. Fandom – A wiki platform for fan communities, Fandom allows users to create and edit pages related to their favorite TV shows, movies, and other interests.

5. DokuWiki – An open-source wiki platform that is easy to use and highly customizable.

Overall, wiki collaboration can be a powerful tool for promoting collaboration, knowledge sharing, and community building. By allowing users to work together to create and edit content, wikis can facilitate the sharing of information and ideas across a wide range of contexts.

Learning, Life Choices, Technology, Training

Short Tutorial: SMB

SMB stands for Server Message Block, which is a protocol for sharing files, printers, and other resources on a network. In Mac Finder, SMB is used to connect to Windows file servers or other network-attached storage devices that use the SMB protocol for sharing files.

When you connect to an SMB server using Mac Finder, you can access files and folders on the server just like you would on your local computer. You can browse the server’s file system, open files, copy files to or from the server, and perform other file management tasks. 

To connect to an SMB server using Mac Finder, you will need to know the server’s name or IP address, as well as a valid username and password with permissions to access the shared files or folders.

Practice this at least 3 times – get your clicks & Muscle Memory In!

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Quick Comparison of Broadcast Cellular Aggregators

Bonded cellular aggregators are devices that combine multiple cellular connections from different carriers into a single, more reliable and faster connection. This technology is commonly used in live video streaming, where a reliable and fast internet connection is crucial. Bonded cellular aggregators can also be used to improve internet connectivity in remote areas where traditional broadband connections are not available. The technology works by splitting the data stream into smaller packets and then sending those packets simultaneously over multiple cellular networks. The receiving device then combines the packets and reassembles them into a single data stream. This process helps to reduce latency and improve overall connection quality.

There are several companies that provide bonded cellular aggregators, including LiveU, TVU Networks, Mushroom Networks, Teradek, and Peplink. These companies offer a range of devices and solutions for different types of applications, from small portable units for on-the-go streaming to rack-mounted systems for studio production. Each company has its own unique features and capabilities, so it’s important to evaluate them based on your specific needs and requirements.

– LiveU is a leading provider of bonded cellular solutions for live video streaming/ broadcasting. Their products range from small backpack-sized units to larger rack-mounted systems. LiveU’s solutions are known for their reliability and high-quality video transmission. LiveU products are popular among broadcasters for their high reliability and ability to transmit high-quality live video from remote locations.

– TVU Networks is another popular provider of bonded cellular solutions for live video streaming. Their products include both portable and rack-mounted units, and they offer unique features like remote control and automation. TVU products are used by broadcasters to transmit live video from the field, and they offer features like remote control and automation to simplify the broadcasting workflow.

– Mushroom Networks provides a range of WAN aggregation solutions, including bonded cellular devices. Their products are designed to improve internet connectivity in remote areas and areas with poor infrastructure. Mushroom Networks provides bonded cellular solutions for broadcasting, with a focus on improving internet connectivity in remote areas. Their products are designed to help broadcasters transmit live video from areas with poor infrastructure or limited connectivity.

– Teradek is a provider of video encoding and transmission solutions, including bonded cellular devices. Teradek products range from small portable units to larger rack-mounted systems, and they offer features like wireless camera control and remote configuration. Teradek products are used by broadcasters to transmit high-quality live video from remote locations, and they offer features like wireless camera control and remote configuration.

– Peplink is a provider of SD-WAN and WAN aggregation solutions, including bonded cellular devices. Peplink products are designed for both business (broadcasting included)and consumer use and offer features like cloud-basedLO management and failover protection. Peplink provides bonded cellular solutions for broadcasting, with a focus on SD-WAN and WAN aggregation. Peplink products are designed to improve internet connectivity and network reliability for broadcasters, ensuring that live video broadcasts are transmitted smoothly and without interruption.

Each company has its strengths and weaknesses, and the best choice depends on the specific needs and requirements of the user.

101, Agile, Career, Employment, Financial, Life Choices, Mentoring, Moving Forward, Project & Production Management, Social Media, Streaming, Teamwork, Technology

Turn Yourself Into a Resource (not a Commodity) that Companies Need!

Turn yourself into a resource that companies need!

1. Identify Your Unique Skill Set: First, you need to recognize and understand your unique skill set. Reflect on your strengths and weaknesses and consider how they might be valuable to a company.

– For instance, if you are interested in the broadcast industry, you may have skills such as live event production, video editing, scriptwriting, or on-air presenting. Identify which of these skills you excel at and enjoy doing the most.

2. Research the Market: Research the target market and identify the skills or resources that companies are looking for. This will help you tailor your skills and promote them in a way that meets company needs.

– Research the broadcast industry and identify the skills or resources that companies are looking for. For example, many broadcast companies seek individuals who are skilled in live production, video editing, and social media management.

3. Focus on Value Proposition: Craft a strong value proposition that highlights the benefits of your skills, knowledge, or experience. Explain how you can add value and solve problems for the company by using your skills.

– Craft a compelling value proposition that highlights the benefits of your skills. For instance, you could say something like: “I’m an experienced live event producer with a passion for creating engaging, high-quality content that connects with audiences. With my skills and experience, I can help your broadcasting company create engaging programming and reach a wider audience.”

4. Develop a Professional Brand: Build a professional brand that conveys your skills, professional approach, and your unique value proposition. Use social media, online portfolios, cover letters, and resumes to showcase your brand.

– Build a professional brand that conveys your skills and value proposition. Create an online portfolio that showcases your work, and use social media to share your expertise and connect with others in the broadcast industry.

5. Network: Build relationships and connect with people in your target market. Attend industry events, join professional organizations, and engage with companies and their employees through social media. Establishing relationships with people can help you learn about new opportunities and make you a valuable resource in the eyes of companies.

– Build relationships and connect with people in the broadcast industry. Attend industry events, join professional organizations, and engage with others in the industry through social media. This can help you learn about new opportunities and make valuable connections.

6. Demonstrate Credibility: Establish credibility by sharing your expertise through articles, presentations, or blogs. Share your knowledge, insights, and experiences related to your area of expertise, both online and offline. This will show companies that you are a credible expert and a valuable resource.

– Establish your credibility by sharing your expertise through articles, presentations, or blogs. For example, create a YouTube channel where you share live event production tips or write articles on the latest trends in video editing. This will show companies that you are knowledgeable and passionate about your craft.

7.  Be Consistent.  

You can set yourself apart in the broadcast industry, or any Industry really, and become a valuable resource that companies are eager to work with.

101, Bandwidth, Digital Platforms, Mentoring, Moving Forward, SFP, Technology

Overview: Riedel’s Line of Products

Today I’m going to give an overview of Riedel Communications.  I do not work for them, nor have I been paid by them for this article.

Riedel Communications is a company that provides innovative solutions for the broadcast, event, and AV industries. Riedel’s line of products includes a range of solutions for streaming and connecting disparate systems, including:

1. MediorNet – A real-time network for video, audio, and data signals. This solution enables the transport and processing of signals over fiber-optic, coaxial, or CatX cables. MediorNet can be used for point-to-point connections, as well as complex network topologies.

2. Artist – A digital matrix intercom system that enables communication between different locations and production teams. The Artist system can be used for traditional intercom applications, as well as for signal routing and distribution in broadcast and live event productions.

3. Bolero – A wireless intercom system that provides high-quality audio and reliable connectivity. Bolero allows for up to 10 beltpacks to be connected to a single antenna, providing coverage over large areas.

4. SmartPanel – A user-friendly intercom panel that can be used with the Artist and Bolero systems. SmartPanel features a touchscreen interface and can be customized to meet the needs of different production teams.

5. MicroN – A compact signal router for video and audio signals. MicroN can be used for point-to-point connections, as well as for routing signals in broadcast and event productions.

6. STX-200 – A solution for converting SDI signals to IP signals. STX-200 enables the integration of traditional broadcast workflows with IP-based workflows.

Riedel’s products are designed to provide flexibility, scalability, and reliability for streaming and connecting disparate systems. The company’s solutions are used in a range of applications, including broadcast, live events, sports, and corporate AV. Some of the features and specs of Riedel’s products include:

– High-quality audio and video signals
– Reliable connectivity over long distances
– Scalability for small and large productions
– User-friendly interfaces for easy operation
– Customizable configurations to meet specific needs
– Support for a range of protocols and standards, including SMPTE, Dante, and AES67

Overall, Riedel’s line of products provides innovative solutions for streaming and connecting disparate systems. The company’s products are designed to meet the needs of different production teams and can be customized to meet specific requirements.

Riedel’s programmable SFPs (Small Form-Factor Pluggable) are part of the MediorNet line of products. SFPs are modular components that can be inserted into MediorNet frames and other devices to enable the transport of video, audio, and data signals over fiber-optic, coaxial, or CatX cables.

Riedel’s programmable SFPs are designed to provide flexibility and customization for different applications. The SFPs can be programmed with different signal types and protocols, including 3G/HD/SD-SDI, MADI, AES, and Ethernet. This allows users to configure their MediorNet systems to meet specific requirements.

Some of the features and specs of Riedel’s programmable SFPs include:

– Support for a range of signal types and protocols
– Programmable with Riedel’s MediorWorks software or third-party software
– Hot-swappable for easy configuration and maintenance
– Automatic signal detection and configuration
– Low power consumption and compact size

Riedel’s programmable SFPs are used in a range of applications, including broadcast, live events, sports, and corporate AV. By enabling the transport of different signal types over a single network, these SFPs provide a flexible and cost-effective solution for video, audio, and data transport.

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Quick Overview: Checksum / How it’s Utilized & How to Use Them

A checksum is a value that is computed from a block of data using a specific algorithm. The purpose of a checksum is to provide a way to verify the integrity of the data. When a sender transmits data, it can compute a checksum and include it with the data. The receiver can then compute a checksum on the received data and compare it to the transmitted checksum. If the two values match, it is likely that the data was transmitted without errors.

Checksums are used in a variety of applications, including network protocols, file transfers, and software updates. They are particularly useful in situations where data corruption or errors are likely to occur, such as over unreliable network connections.

In network protocols, checksums are often used to detect errors in data packets. For example, the Mo of each IP packet. If the checksum indicates that the packet is corrupted, it can be discarded and a new packet can be requested.

In file transfers, checksums are used to verify that the file was transferred correctly. After a file is transferred, the sender can compute a checksum on the file and include it with the file. The recipient can then compute a checksum on the received file and compare it to the sender’s checksum. If the two values match, it is likely that the file was transferred without errors.

In software updates, checksums are used to verify that the update was downloaded correctly. After a software update is downloaded, the user can compute a checksum on the downloaded file and compare it to the checksum provided by the software vendor. If the two values match, it is likely that the update was downloaded correctly.

Overall, checksums are an important tool for ensuring the integrity of data in a variety of applications.

In broadcasting, checksums are often used in conjunction with SCTE markers to ensure the integrity of the video and audio streams. For example, SCTE-35 markers are used to signal ad insertion points in a video stream. When an ad break is signaled, the receiver can use a checksum to verify the integrity of the video data before and after the ad break. If the checksum indicates that the video data has been corrupted, the receiver can request a retransmission of the video data.

Similarly, checksums can be used to verify the integrity of audio data in a broadcast stream. For example, if an audio stream includes a checksum value, the receiver can use the checksum to verify that the audio data has not been corrupted during transmission.

Overall, checksums are an important tool for broadcasters to ensure the quality and integrity of their broadcast streams. By using checksums in conjunction with SCTE markers, broadcasters can provide a more reliable and consistent viewing experience for their audiences.

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Video Streaming Protocols: RTMP, RTSP, SRT, & NDI: How They are Consumed

RTMP, RTSP, SRT, and NDI are all different protocols used for streaming audio and video content over the internet. Each protocol has its own unique features and advantages. In this response, we’ll explore what each protocol is, how it works, and how it’s consumed.

RTMP (Real-Time Messaging Protocol) is a proprietary protocol developed by Adobe. It’s commonly used for streaming video content on platforms like YouTube and Twitch. To use RTMP, you need a video encoder, which captures the audio and video content and compresses it into a digital format. The encoded content is then sent to a streaming server, which distributes the content to the end-users. RTMP has been widely used in the past, but it’s gradually being replaced by more modern protocols like SRT and NDI.

RTSP (Real-Time Streaming Protocol) is an open-source protocol used for streaming audio and video content. It’s commonly used for security cameras and other surveillance systems. To use RTSP, you need an RTSP server, which stores the audio and video content and distributes it to the end-users. RTSP is widely used in the security industry because it supports real-time streaming and is compatible with a wide range of devices.

SRT (Secure Reliable Transport) is an open-source protocol that was designed to address some of the issues with RTMP. SRT is a low-latency protocol that’s optimized for live streaming. It’s designed to work over unreliable networks, which means that it can deliver high-quality audio and video content even in poor network conditions. To use SRT, you need an SRT encoder, which compresses the audio and video content and sends it to an SRT receiver, which decodes the content and distributes it to the end-users.

NDI (Network Device Interface) is a proprietary protocol developed by NewTek. It’s commonly used for streaming video content in the professional production industry. NDI allows you to add multiple video sources to a single network and stream them to multiple devices. To use NDI, you need an NDI-enabled device, such as a camera or a video encoder. The NDI-enabled device sends the audio and video content to an NDI receiver, which decodes the content and distributes it to the end-users.

In terms of consumption, each protocol can be consumed using a variety of devices, such as smartphones, tablets, laptops, and smart TVs. To consume RTMP content, you’ll need a media player that supports the protocol, such as Adobe Flash Player or VLC Media Player. To consume RTSP content, you’ll need an RTSP client, such as IP Camera Viewer or VLC Media Player. To consume SRT content, you’ll need an SRT player, such as Haivision Play or VLC Media Player. To consume NDI content, you’ll need an NDI-enabled device, such as an NDI-enabled camera or an NDI-enabled video encoder.

In conclusion, RTMP, RTSP, SRT, and NDI are all different protocols used for streaming audio and video content over the internet. Each protocol has its own unique features and advantages. The choice of protocol depends on the specific needs of the user, such as the type of content being streamed and the quality of the network connection.

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Broadcasting Standards: Utilizing AI with SCTE-35, SCTE-104

SCTE markers are metadata tags that are inserted into a video stream to signal specific events or actions, such as ad insertion points. DAI stands for Dynamic Ad Insertion, which is a technology that enables the insertion of targeted ads into live or on-demand video streams. Users can now elect to use or interact with AI bots like GPT-3.5/GPT-4 to even further automate these processes.


There are several SCTE standards that define SCTE markers for different use cases. For example, SCTE-35 defines markers for digital program insertion (DPI) and SCTE-104 defines markers for ad insertion. The specific SCTE markers used for DAI will depend on the implementation.

AI can help the process of dynamic ad insertion by analyzing data to identify patterns and make predictions about viewer behavior. Here are a few ways AI can be used:

1. Predicting viewer preferences: AI can analyze data about viewer behavior, such as which ads they tend to skip, and use that information to predict which ads will be most effective for a particular viewer.

2. Optimizing ad placement: AI can analyze data about viewer behavior to determine the optimal placement of ads within a video stream, such as which ad formats are most effective at different points in the video.

3. Targeting ads to specific audiences: AI can analyze data about viewer demographics and behavior to identify specific audience segments and deliver targeted ads to those segments.

4. Creating personalized ads: AI can analyze data about individual viewers to create personalized ads that are more likely to be effective.

Overall, AI can help make the process of dynamic ad insertion more efficient and effective by using data to make smarter decisions about ad placement and targeting.

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MAM vs DAM – A Quick Comparison

MAM and DAM systems are both used for managing digital assets, but there are some differences between them.

1. Mam (Media Asset Management) System – A MAM system is a software solution that provides centralized management of digital media assets such as videos, images, and audio files. It offers features such as asset ingestion, organization, metadata management, search and retrieval, and workflow automation. The MAM system is used primarily by media and entertainment companies to manage their content libraries and make it easier to find and access files.

2. DAM (Digital Asset Management) System – A DAM system is a software solution that provides centralized management of digital assets such as documents, images, videos, and audio files. It offers features such as asset ingestion, organization, metadata management, search and retrieval, and workflow automation. The DAM system is used by a variety of companies to manage their digital assets, including marketing collateral, product images, and other digital content.

The key difference between MAM and DAM systems is the type of assets they are designed to manage. MAM systems are primarily focused on managing media assets, while DAM systems are designed to manage a broader range of digital assets. Additionally, MAM systems are often used by media and entertainment companies, while DAM systems are used by a variety of organizations across different industries.

It is worth noting that some companies may use the terms MAM and DAM interchangeably, and the features and capabilities of these systems can vary depending on the specific vendor and product. Ultimately, the choice between a MAM or DAM system will depend on the specific needs and requirements of the organization, and it is recommended to evaluate the features, capabilities, and pricing of each solution before making a decision.