Internal video communications at AT&T have advanced significantly thanks to two new mobile production systems featuring the Broadcast Pix Slate 3000 live integrated production system. Delivered in October 2008 by TV Pro Gear, a systems integrator based in Los Angeles, the new HD Flypak™ mobile production systems are used to produce and stream HD programming live to tens of thousands of employees.

In the past, AT&T relied on analog production systems in multiple cases, but its Internal Communication Media Division needed mobile production solutions that could be run by one person. “The Slate switchers are the only production switchers on the market with a built-in CG, clip store, and multi-view monitor. This is precisely why AT&T chose the Broadcast Pix Slate 3000 switcher,” said Chandos Mahon, Jr., TV Pro Gear senior vice president. “The Slate 3000 adds an integrated router for more I/O and redundancy. This cuts down integration time and saves the client money.”

While the Slate 3000 can handle up to 18 inputs and features PixButtons to identify each source, AT&T maintains a four-camera setup. In one configuration, a single operator controls three Panasonic AK-HC1500G “box” cameras with Fujinon HAS18×7.6BMD-DSE lenses. A second configuration uses the Panasonic cameras as studio cameras. In addition, a Panasonic AJ-HDX900 camcorder is available for studio or ENG use.

During its live webcasts, AT&T records its productions. Using the line out from the Slate 3000, the director can record to a DVCPRO HD VTR, plus record a QuickTime file to an external RAID for native editing using Final Cut Pro.

“The Broadcast Pix switcher has become the premier choice for an all-in-one professional HD switcher,” Mahon said.

AT&T’s HD Flypak features a pull-out storage drawer that doubles as a work surface during productions. The Broadcast Pix switcher is mounted in the drawer, along with camera controls and the audio mixer.