Al Jazeera Deploys TVUPack for Newsgathering in Middle East

TVU Networks, a global technology leader in IP video and portable live electronic news gathering (ENG) broadcast solutions, announced that Al Jazeera has deployed TVUPack to extend its live newsgathering operations in Egypt and other locations throughout the Middle East.

After evaluating a number of live cellular uplink products, Al Jazeera selected TVUPack as its solution of choice to deliver live HD video over 3G/4G cellular networks. With TVUPack, Al Jazeera has been able to expand its live broadcast capabilities in a cost effective manner, delivering coverage of live events, press conferences, demonstrations, and important breaking news such as the 2012 presidential elections and recent civil unrest in Egypt.

Al Jazeera selected TVUPack because of its ability to deliver superior picture quality over 3G and 4G wireless networks and TVUPack’s unique dual encoder capabilities that enable the solution to simultaneously record and transmit video in HD. Additionally, TVUPack’s simple one button operation enables Al Jazeera camera operators to focus on
capturing the shot rather than configuring the transmission in the field. TVU Networks pioneered the use of one button operation without the need for manual configuration in the field.

“TVUPack has revolutionized our approach to live broadcast,” says Mohammad Al Sharaan, head of newsgathering and operations, Al Jazeera. “After a thorough evaluation of other products, we determined that the TVUPack delivers superior performance and resiliency in crowded areas where cellular network congestion may impact the ability to send a stable picture. We use TVUPack on a daily basis to deliver the important news that Al Jazeera viewers have come to expect.”

United Broadcast & Media Solutions (UBMS) in Dubai, an official TVU Networks reseller partner, provided on-location support in implementing TVU solutions into Al Jazeera’s broadcast workflow. “The UBMS team was instrumental in helping us get the most out of our TVUPack. We see both companies as valuable partners as we expand our ENG operations,” said Al Sharaan.

Already in use by hundreds of leading broadcast organizations around the world, the TVUPack family of products gives broadcasters satellite and microwave TV truck functionality in a lightweight, portable and untethered form. TVUPack is simple to use and provides broadcasters with low-latency, HD-quality signal that enables them to broadcast live at any time and from any location. The TVUPack family of products has been used to deliver professional-quality live HD footage of a number of important events around the world including the World Cup, the London Olympics, U.S. presidential elections, FIFA Confederations Cup, and the 2013 Papal conclave.