The advent of the use of standalone 5G networks in television production heralds a transformative era in broadcasting. This evolution is exemplified by its use in both the Coronation of Charles III and the innovative live production of Big Brother Brazil, embodying a shift towards a more accessible and dynamic production approach. The integration of 5G technology not only highlights a technological leap forward, but also facilitates the democratization of the broadcasting industry, paving the way for a future unbound by the constraints of traditional broadcasting methodologies.
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“This is not a proof of concept. This is ready and in prime-time use,” said John F., senior knowledge exchange fellow at the University of Strathclyde and lead technology consultant at Strathclyde spin-out company Neutral Wireless. said one Malcolm Brew, and is adamant that it is operational. His 5G preparation for mainstream broadcasting. From enhancing live sports to making broadcasts more accessible, Belew’s enthusiasm for 5G’s capabilities speaks volumes about the seismic shifts underway in the industry.
5G production reaches maturity
The rapid evolution of 5G technology from the early experimental stage to playing a key role in several works is revolutionizing the industry. Initially, the foray into 5G production started modestly with a demonstration using just his five cameras at IBC 2022. This humble beginning quickly expanded into a pivotal role in Operation Unicorn, which captured Queen Elizabeth II’s final departure from Scotland. As well as leveraging the power of 5G, the iconic images of the Queen’s plane will be broadcast to billions of viewers around the world, potentially setting viewership records.
Reflecting on this rapid progress, Brew highlighted the unusually rapid development of 5G production capabilities, saying, “We are moving from using one or two cameras to deploying 60 cameras for breakthrough events. The statement highlights the dramatic shift in the broadcast industry, with 5G potentially moving from proof of concept to becoming an essential tool for covering major events. This change demonstrates 5G’s robust ability to meet diverse broadcasting demands, offering previously unattainable scalability and efficiency.
Case Study: King’s Coronation and Big Brother
As explained in the IBC2023 Tech Paper of the Year, the Coronation of Charles III was a pivotal moment for the broadcasting industry, paving the way for the practical application of 5G Standalone Non-Public Networks (S-NPN) in large-scale live broadcasts. I showed it. event. The event focused on the advancement of his 5G technology and demonstrated its ability to provide high quality and reliable live coverage even in the most demanding scenarios.
BBC News identified the need to provide continuous mobile coverage along part of the procession route between Admiralty Arch and Buckingham Palace. To ensure continuous and uninterrupted coverage along the route, the BBC deployed a dedicated 5G S-NPN network for the event, taking advantage of new spectrum licensed by Ofcom in the 3.8-4.2 GHz range. This network enables seamless integration of modern IP workflows, significantly increasing broadcast efficiency and quality.
Commenting on the coronation event, Brew said: It was important to us to ensure that we could share this historic moment with the world without compromise. ” This approach reduces reliance on traditional broadcast setups and provides unprecedented levels of flexibility and efficiency.
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The success of 5G networks during the Coronation Ceremony demonstrated its ability to support large-scale live broadcasts. Over 60 devices accessed the network and delivered over 54.4 GB of uplink video data. “The Coronation event highlighted the unparalleled scalability and adaptability of 5G, making it a game-changer for live event broadcasts,” adds Brew.
The application of 5G in Big Brother Brazil further embodies this approach, as presented in a separate IBC2023 technical document. “Big Brother Brazil” has been broadcast by Globo TV for nearly 20 years. This program utilizes his over 50 cameras to ensure continuous and comprehensive coverage. Traditional setups require complex cabling infrastructure and have high operating costs. 5G presents an opportunity to revolutionize this setup by introducing mobility, reducing physical installations, and enabling remote production capabilities.
For Big Brother Brasil, the use of 5G was essential to transmit high-quality, low-latency video 24 hours a day during the 100-day program. The implementation of network slicing within the 5G infrastructure was critical, dedicating certain network resources to the reality show studio, thereby ensuring reliability and quality of service. This approach preserved network resources and ensured secure data transmission necessary for the continued operation of the reality show.
The success of this project hinged on the deployment of dedicated 5G S-NPN, which facilitated remote camera control and significantly reduced reliance on video cables. His two cameras with SRT protocol and HEVC codec transmitted 40 Mbps each, achieving 80 Mbps upload bandwidth with just 6 frames of glass-to-glass delay. This high video quality and low latency enables seamless integration of 5G-connected cameras with traditional wired cameras, setting a new standard for efficiency and quality in live production.
Democratization of the broadcasting environment
Perhaps the most significant impact of 5G is its democratizing effect on the broadcast industry. 5G networks pave the way for small productions and independent creators to share their content on a global stage by eliminating the high barriers to entry traditionally associated with live outdoor broadcasts. Brew acknowledges that “5G technology will democratize live outdoor broadcasting, making it accessible to smaller production companies and individuals.”
Brew highlights that 5G networks are revolutionizing coverage of low-budget events, offering production capabilities previously thought unattainable for smaller sports and activities. He emphasized the accessibility and efficiency that 5G brings to broadcasting, saying, “When you put an iPhone 15 Pro in someone’s hands, they get a good idea of how they’re going to use it.” Ta. This democratization of broadcast technology allows reporting from the “bottom up” and allows for the capture of events that would not traditionally be broadcast. “I can’t go to that soccer field and I can’t cover that game,” he says. “Economically, it’s too big, carbon is too dirty, and takes too long to rig. With 5G and high-quality consumer cameras, you could literally pop it up and get about the same production value. This approach further reduces the barrier to entry for covering lesser-known sports and events, and brings 5G’s ability to “reach people who thought they would never be able to broadcast live outdoors.” I’m emphasizing.
This vision of 5G-enabled broadcasting will democratize media production and provide a platform for previously overlooked events and sports, thereby enriching the diversity of content available to viewers.
hybrid approach
Brew emphasizes that 5G will play a pivotal role in facilitating the transition to IP-based video production while integrating with the established standards of traditional SDI workflows. “5G will complement traditional broadcasting, not replace it,” he says. “It brings flexibility and efficiency previously unattainable.” This transition will lead to more adaptable and efficient production methods, enabled by the seamless connectivity and high-bandwidth capabilities of 5G networks. means a transition to.
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The concept of leveraging a hybrid network that combines the best of both private and public networks has emerged as an attractive solution to enhance broadcast capabilities. Brew offers a forward-looking perspective, suggesting: “Using private and public networks for broadcast highlights the benefits of a hybrid approach. 5G enables wireless UHD, two-way, full camera control to enhance production and reduce costs ” This innovative approach promises to not only improve production quality but also make high-end broadcasting more economically viable.
Envisioning the future with 5G
The integration of 5G technology into the broadcasting sector marks a pivotal change, promising a future where broadcasting becomes more inclusive, dynamic and immersive. Coverage of groundbreaking events such as the coronation of Charles III and the production of Big Brother Brazil has demonstrated the transformative potential of his 5G to offer unparalleled flexibility, efficiency and quality in wireless production. I am. “5G will undoubtedly play a key role in shaping the future of broadcasting as we move forward, making it more accessible and engaging for creators and viewers alike.” Belew concludes.
Brew notes the skepticism that initially surrounded the applicability of 5G to broadcasting and acknowledges the industry’s journey from skepticism to acceptance. “There were some naysayers, but demonstrating the capabilities of his 5G in a real production environment has convinced them.” This evolution in perception is due to the tangible benefits of 5G and the broadcast eco-friendliness. It highlights the growing confidence in its role within the system.
Further exploring the creative freedom unlocked by 5G, Brew said: “5G opens up new possibilities for storytelling, allowing us to film and broadcast from angles and locations never before thought possible. ” states. This free innovation in content creation enables a more dynamic and immersive viewing experience, pushing the boundaries of traditional broadcasting.
Brew also foresees a future where the technology gap between large and small productions will blur thanks to the leveling effect of 5G. “This technology levels the playing field, allowing smaller teams to produce content at a quality and scale that was once the exclusive domain of large broadcasters.” This egalitarian perspective We will usher in a more inclusive broadcasting environment enriched by diverse voices and stories.
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