University of Idaho selects DNF Controls

The University of Idaho Department of Athletics is using DNF Controls ST304-DSR1K slow-motion controller to create a powerful portable replay system for live event production. The ST304-DSR1K slow-motion controller takes advantage of Sony DSR-DR1000 hard-disk technology to give the university's video production staff instant access to video, along with simultaneous record and playback functionality. The system is installed at the ASUI-Kibbie Activity Center, home to Idaho Vandals sports (including football and basketball) as well as high-profile university events such as commencement and the annual Lionel Hampton International Jazz Festival.  

"Over the course of a football game, we must be able to provide fans with slow-motion replays while also making four different camera angles available to game officials and referees," said Dave Tong, manager and producer for the University of Idaho Video Production Center. "The DNF Controls controller is a compact solution that enables us to provide four channels of video through a straightforward interface. The student employees who operate the controllers have found them easy to use — quickly learning to turn around instant replays — and have gained valuable hands-on experience working with the same tools used in professional sports production."

Each of two DNF Controls ST304-DSR1K systems supports a pair of Sony DSR-DR1000 DVCAM hard-disk recorders and is tied into the Daktronics big-screen display within the Kibbie Dome. The DNF Controls and Sony equipment has been integrated into a flight case production system, used primarily within the Dome's newly created control facility and linked to camera positions throughout. The space-saving design of the ST304-DSR1K contributes to the portability of the flight case, which the university's production staff can move to the Video Production Center studio or to other locations as needed.

The ST304-DSR1K provides VTR-like control of Sony's DSR-DR1000, allowing the video production team at the University of Idaho to create, save, and recall clips for instant replays. The ST304-DSR1K enables users to mark cue points on the fly and play back video instantly without disrupting the record process. The controller provides smooth, slow-motion instant replay from up to 100 cue points per DSR-DR1000. 

"Football officials have told us we've got the best replay setup in the conference, and they like that we can provide such good camera coverage and multiple angles in a matter of seconds," added Tong. "Using the DNF Controls unit, we can give them angle after angle, just like that, so that they can verify or reverse calls made on the field."