Radio Botswana has upgraded its infrastructure to Calrec’s Type R IP technology, replacing its 60-year-old analogue system. This change enhances flexibility, reduces costs, and streamlines workflows across its 14-studio complex. The modular design meets diverse production needs and paves the way for future developments, reinforcing Radio Botswana’s leadership in the digital audio landscape.
Radio Botswana has upgraded its broadcasting infrastructure by transitioning from an outdated analogue system to Calrec’s Type R IP technology across its 14-studio complex in Gaborone. This upgrade aims to enhance operational flexibility, modernization, and support future growth while streamlining workflows through a more modular and customizable system, in collaboration with Dega Broadcast Systems, a UK-based systems integrator.
Project Manager Rex Mogotsi emphasized the positive changes brought by this transition, highlighting that “the shift from analogue to IP was driven by a desire for greater flexibility in our operations.” The new IP technology reduces equipment space, simplifies connectivity, and enables remote capabilities, all of which contribute to more efficient operational workflows.
The implementation of Calrec’s Type R system significantly cuts costs due to reduced cabling and maintenance. Its scalable modular design allows Radio Botswana to adapt production capabilities according to demand, thereby enhancing efficiency and facilitating faster content turnaround times, as Mogotsi noted, “This ensures better quality content with quicker turnaround times.”
The new setup allows for specialized studio configurations: live broadcast studios feature advanced control surfaces with up to 16 faders, while post-production studios are equipped with fewer faders to meet specific production needs. This optimization of each studio facilitates seamless transitions between them, contributing to overall operational resilience with simultaneous tasks.
Three DSP cores efficiently manage six studios out of a total of only 11 cores servicing all 14 studios. This design fosters resource sharing and allows for robust cross-studio collaboration. Graham Murray, International Sales Manager at Calrec, remarked on future plans for the station, indicating aspirations to launch a new channel and explore distributed production methods for even greater flexibility.
By implementing Calrec’s Type R system, Radio Botswana is establishing itself as a frontrunner in Botswana’s evolving digital audio landscape. Mogotsi reaffirmed their commitment to innovation by stating, “We chose Calrec for its reputation for high-quality sound and scalable solutions. Type R aligns perfectly with our goals for quality and adaptability, ensuring we can serve wider audiences both locally and internationally.”
The shift from analogue to digital broadcasting technologies reflects a global trend towards more flexible, scalable, and efficient systems in media production and dissemination. Radio Botswana’s upgrade showcases the growing imperative for modern broadcasting entities to embrace IP-based technologies, enabling greater adaptability, cost-effectiveness, and improved production capabilities.
In conclusion, Radio Botswana’s significant investment in Calrec’s Type R IP technology highlights its commitment to modernizing its broadcasting capabilities. The upgrade not only enhances operational efficiency and flexibility but also positions the station for future growth, ensuring high-quality production and a stronger market presence both locally and internationally.
Original Source: www.broadcastprome.com
