The challenge

With the proliferation of news channels in India in recent years, Mahaa TV was keen to build a sophisticated infrastructure, using state-of-the-art media equipment that would enable the company to broadcast its new channel free-to-air and have it streamed live over the Internet.  

To translate this vision into a reality necessitated the construction of a new, technologically-advanced facility which incorporated two news studios, a master control room and a central apparatus room supported by a file-based infrastructure.  Mahaa TV needed to partner with a company that could bring fresh design ideas, incorporate new technologies and complete the work in a timely and professional manner — and within budget.

The solution

Mahaa TV appointed Shaf Broadcast Pvt. Ltd to oversee the build out of these new broadcast facilities.  Shaf Broadcast in turn selected MHz, the UK-based system integrator, to handle the design and engineering planning of the client’s file-based workflow as the company had a wealth of expertise in this arena. 

MHz started the process of defining the complex requirements for this channel through an in-depth consultation with Mahaa TV, during which they were able draw on their extensive expertise and understanding of the news environment and technology to optimise the client’s business.  MHz was able to add value to Mahaa TV through its project management capabilities and to provide solid plans, in partnership with Shaf Broadcast, to facilitate the installation.

The file-based newsroom solution at Mahaa TV is based around an Omneon Spectrum playout server, and includes Ross vision mixers, Sony CCU-D50 cameras, VizRT Graphics, Evertz routers, multiviewers and QMC MCR switcher, Omnibus Automation and Associated Press’s ENPS News Room System.

Why MHz?

MHz has a solid global reputation for the design and build of integrated file-based newsrooms that meet the mission critical requirements of broadcasters.  From ingest through to transmission, including video streaming to the Internet and mobile devices, MHz has an in-depth understanding of the entire news production chain.  

MHz has provided its consultancy skills to design and deploy newsroom systems for global brands including Al Jazeera, the BBC, e.tv and ITN to name as few.  This international experience, together with the local support and engineering proficiency available through its partner in India, has enabled MHz to bring the appropriate credentials needed to undertake the design and engineering planning for Mahaa TV’s new 24-hour news channel.  

Working with an established local partner like Shaf Broadcast is important to the success of projects like Mahaa TV as they provide the local capabilities on site.   Shaf Broadcast offers expertise in both broadcast and IT technology, and has an essential understanding of the local requirements and regional languages needed to support a file-based installation.  Through this partnership, MHz is able to simultaneously deliver the flexibility and local support with the associated cost-efficiencies, to ensure the quickest time to air in an increasingly competitive news business.

Business Benefits

• Understanding news operations: MHz understands its clients’ business and supports their effort to design news operations that tightly match their needs as they redefine their workflow strategies.  MHz works closely with broadcast equipment manufacturers to ensure close product integration enabling customers to implement highly automated workflows reducing operating costs and galvanising on revenue-increasing business models.
  
  
• A trustworthy track record: With over 25 years of broadcast design, project management and engineering experience, MHz can oversee the design and installation of a wide variety of broadcast systems, from earth stations, DSNG & production vehicles to the latest in file-based high-definition production workflows.
   
• International reputation with local consideration: MHz has the breadth of knowledge and experience that comes with being a reputable global systems integrator while delivering a local market perspective and onsite support through local partner companies.

• Omneon Spectrum server
• Omnibus Automation
• AP ENPS Newsroom System
• Sony CCU-D50 cameras 
• Ross vision mixers
• Evertz routers, multiviewers & QMC MCR switcher
• VizRT Graphics