Project Background
Questacon, the National Science and Technology Centre located in Canberra, Australia, is a premier destination for science and technology education. Known for its interactive exhibits and engaging educational programs, Questacon continually seeks to enhance its facilities to deliver high-quality content to its audience. Recognizing the need to upgrade their studio to support advanced production capabilities, Questacon embarked on a significant technological upgrade.
Project Objectives
The primary objectives of the upgrade were to:
- Move from a HD workflow to a 4K workflow via NDI (Network Device Interface).
- Install new Blackmagic 6K studio cameras with Canon Cine lenses to enhance video quality and encode the signals into 4K NDI.
- Upgrade and enable their existing TriCaster Elite 2 system to receive the new Blackmagic Studio camera signals via a 4K NDI workflow.
- Rearrange the equipment racks for better organization and efficiency.
- Reactivate the existing autocue system to accept the TriCaster NDI teleprompter feed.
- Choose a reliable and experienced partner to execute the installation seamlessly.
Our Solution
Questacon selected Lemac to carry out the studio upgrade. Known for their expertise in audiovisual installations and strong track record, Lemac was the ideal choice to handle this complex project.
Camera Upgrade
The upgrade began with the installation of the Blackmagic 6K studio cameras, paired with Canon Cine lenses. This combination was chosen for its superior image quality, offering 6K resolution and exceptional dynamic range in a studio environment. The Canon lenses complement the cameras by providing precise focus and vibrant colour reproduction, crucial for producing high-quality educational content.
TriCaster Elite 2 Integration
Next, Questacon's existing TriCaster Elite 2 system was upgraded to the latest software, and connected to the new Netgear AVline network Switch via 10G. Each of the Blackmagic Studio Converters had their 12G outputs run through a Viz Spark 12G converter to output an NDI signal for the Tricaster. Running the return feeds back through a Switcher allowed the Blackmagic Software to directly control the functions of the studio cameras. This integration allowed for seamless switching and camera adjustments from the Tricaster and a laptop, greatly improving operational efficiency. Additionally, the system's capability to receive NDI vision was activated, enabling high-quality video transmission over the network. This feature provided greater flexibility in content delivery and ensures a smooth and reliable broadcast.
Equipment Rack Reorganization
A critical part of the upgrade was the reorganization of the equipment racks. We were able to remove a lot of the legacy HD cabling and implement a new NDI layout, utilizing the space and greatly improving cable management. This reorganization not only enhanced the accessibility and maintenance of the equipment but also improved the overall workflow within the studio, by reducing the amount of cables.
Autocue System Reactivation
To further enhance production capabilities, the existing Autocue system was reactivated to accept the TriCaster NDI teleprompter feed. This integration ensured that the teleprompter could be controlled via the TriCaster system, while still running through the Blackmagic ecosystem and utilizing the 10Gb ethernet connection between the Blackmagic Studio Converter and Studio Camera 6K Pro, streamlining the production process and providing presenters with a reliable and easy-to-use tool.
Why Questacon Chose Lemac
Questacon's decision to partner with Lemac was based on several key factors:
- Expertise: The Lemac team have extensive experience in audiovisual installations, particularly in complex studio environments.
- Reputation: Lemac is known for its commitment to excellence and innovation, making them a trusted partner for high-stakes projects.
- Customization: Lemac provided a tailored solution that addressed Questacon's specific needs and challenges and continued to adapt and make changes during the install to give the best outcome.
- Professionalism: The Lemac team demonstrated exceptional professionalism, minimizing downtime and ensuring a smooth transition to the upgraded systems. It was also noted by the client that during the quoting process, Lemac asked many questions and discussed various options before arriving at the solution that would work the best for Questacon.
Results
The studio upgrade at Questacon has resulted in a state-of-the-art production environment that supports high-quality educational programming. The new Blackmagic 6K cameras and Canon lenses deliver stunning visuals, while the enhanced TriCaster Elite 2 system ensures efficient and flexible production workflows. The reorganization of the equipment racks has optimized space and improved accessibility, and the reactivated autocue system has streamlined the presentation process. Due to the NDI capability we can now patch cameras into any connected network point on any level at Questacon and by using the Tricasters KVM function we can shoot, mix and control a production on Level One and send it back to the Studio on Level Three.
Conclusion
Questacon's studio upgrade, expertly managed by Lemac team led by Wayne Newton, has significantly enhanced their production capabilities. This upgrade not only elevates the quality of Questacon's content but also ensures that they remain at the forefront of science and technology education. Lemac's expertise and dedication have been instrumental in achieving this successful transformation, making us a valued partner in Questacon's ongoing mission to inspire and educate.
Contact Us
The Lemac team is your team, in Melbourne, Sydney and Brisbane
While this was a large project, Lemac has the ability to custom create and support a studio for any business to suit both their budget and needs.
Whether it’s a full studio build and install, a redesign of your existing facility or anything in between, Lemac can guide you through the process, from start to finish.
Contact us today to find out how we can help.
Wayne Newton
Lemac National Business Development Manager
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