The Hong Kong Jockey Club (HKJC) has significantly bolstered its intercom system at Sha Tin and Happy Valley racecourses, along with the Sha Tin Communications & Technology Centre (SCTC), by deploying Riedel's Artist-1024 and 1200 Series SmartPanels. This upgrade, achieved in partnership with New Digital Technology Holdings Ltd., marks the first use of a redundant SMPTE ST 2022-7 structure in Hong Kong. HKJC's Manager- Broadcasting Operations, Mazy Li, highlighted the importance of reliable communication for live events and praised Riedel's support throughout the project, noting the system's ability to maintain integrated connectivity across all venues. The new infrastructure, comprising two Artist-1024 frames and over thirty 1200 Series SmartPanels, integrates with existing systems and supports high-capacity audio-over-IP and Dante for integrated signal routing.
Technical Implications for Live Production
The upgrade at the Hong Kong Jockey Club (HKJC) leverages Riedel's Artist-1024 and 1200 Series SmartPanels to create a reliable, redundant intercom network capable of supporting the club's live productions. This system spans nine critical rooms across two racecourses and a central studio, ensuring integrated communication for audio server rooms, control rooms, and DV areas. The deployment integrates SMPTE ST 2022-7 and AES67 standards to deliver high-capacity, IP-based connectivity, enhancing reliability and flexibility. For instance, the use of Dante ensures smooth routing between the intercom system, audio mixers, and third-party devices, crucial for managing program audio, IFB (Instant Feed Back), and commentary signals in real-time. The transition from Riedel's Artist G2 to the new 1024 frame also addresses compatibility issues with legacy panels and VoIP trunks, while eliminating single points of failure.
The integration process required meticulous planning and execution to maintain operational continuity during a busy racing season. This involved resolving technical challenges such as AES67 audio loss and Dante clock synchronization issues through rigorous stress testing and software development assistance from Riedel's support team. The 1200 Series SmartPanels, with their individual key muting and alarm features, provide advanced functionality that simplifies workflows for directors and operators. This upgrade positions them for future growth by offering a scalable platform that can adapt to evolving production needs.
The deployment of Riedel's future-ready intercom system by the Hong Kong Jockey Club signals a significant shift towards more reliable and scalable communication infrastructures in live sports broadcasting. This move underscores the industry's growing emphasis on reliable, high-capacity systems capable of supporting complex, multi-venue operations. The integration of SMPTE ST 2022-7 redundant Artist structures and integrated IP connectivity is indicative of an ongoing trend toward standardized, flexible technologies that can accommodate diverse production needs.
The next likely step in this evolution will involve further consolidation of intercom systems with other critical broadcast infrastructure components such as video distribution networks and audio-over-IP solutions. This integration aims to create a unified platform that streamlines operations, enhances interoperability, and reduces the risk of single points of failure. As live sports broadcasting continues to expand and become more technologically sophisticated, the industry will increasingly focus on building resilient, future-proof communication systems that can support extended coverage periods and high-density production environments.
Looking ahead, readers should watch for further advancements in Riedel's Artist platform, particularly its integration with new technologies like Private 5G networks. The Hong Kong Jockey Club's successful deployment will likely inspire other large-scale event producers to consider similar upgrades, focusing on enhanced reliability and scalability. Additionally, the integrated transition from wired to wireless communications could pave the way for more flexible and efficient production setups in the coming months.
The upgrade enhances the reliability of audio-over-IP and Dante integration, crucial for managing multiple audio streams during live broadcasts. The redundant SMPTE ST 2022-7 structure ensures that any single point of failure is mitigated, providing peace of mind for HKJC's operations. This setup supports up to 16 channels per node, allowing for efficient signal routing and distribution across the entire network. Mazy Li added, "We can now handle even the most complex audio scenarios without interruptions, which is vital for maintaining a high-quality live broadcast experience." The system's flexibility also allows for easy scaling to accommodate future events or venue expansions, ensuring that HKJC remains at the forefront of technological advancements in live event production.
The deployment process was meticulously planned and executed within tight deadlines. Riedel worked closely with New Digital Technology Holdings Ltd. to integrate the new Artist-1024 frames and 1200 Series SmartPanels into HKJC's existing infrastructure. This collaboration ensured that the upgrade would be integrated, maintaining uninterrupted service during the transition period. The integration of AES67 standards further enhances the system's capability to handle diverse audio formats, providing a reliable foundation for future technological integrations.
News submitted by: Mark Ops
