Recording and Encoding

Encoders are available in a variety of configurations and provide closed caption support.  Transcoding solutions for workflow improvement are also available. Manual encoding can be done directly from any Synergy Broadcast Encoder but you also have the option of Automated Encoding.  Synergy Broadcast Systems pioneered automated encoding using our tape automation robots and VLM automation software.  Analog videotape can be encoded automatically as part of a broadcast operation or configured entirely for a production application.  Other configurations can be accomplished without the use of robots as we have developed an extensive list of third party devices we can control for automation purposes.  Satellite recording can also be controlled and automated for time shifting and other requirements using our Satellite Control module.

Error Notification & Remote Access

VLM has always included an Error Notification feature because virtually all of our early installations were un-manned or in “lights out” locations with no operators present. Today, with budget cuts, many facilities operate unmanned at night and weekends so it's important that your Broadcast Automation System notify technical staff when a problem occurs so it can be addressed.

Error Notification is configurable to notify multiple technicians, engineers or operators in succession. As an example, if the primary technician does not respond to an error within 15 minutes the system will page the next technician. If he or she fails to respond the next person in line will get a page. Notifications include an email to the technician’s mobile phone and email address with a copy of the “error log file” so the technician has a feel for the problem before accessing the system.

Once the message is received, the technician can access the system remotely by laptop or smart phone to look at the schedule or any component in the system. Many times the error can be corrected without making a trip to the station.