System concept

AVECO automation fits a one channel broadcaster as well as a multiple channel operation that coordinates several cooperating sites. Our systems are modular both in their hardware and software architecture and provide high levels of flexibility. We have a unique capability to re-configure, scale and adapt your AVECO automation without threatening the system's robust operation or taking the system off line so we can deliver and maintain exact fit solutions.

Hardware

AVECO Automation is built as client-server system where the entire automation system runs on a single PC or it runs on a number of PC's that interconnect via LAN, WAN or the Internet.

These PC's can be dedicated automation servers, dedicated automation terminals, and a combination of both. Automation servers have dual, hot-swappable disk drives and power supplies and genlock and communication cards. Dedicated automation terminals are diskless PCs and come with a jog-wheeled dedicated keyboard.

Other hardware available: rackmount barcode readers and serial changeover units for mirrored automation servers.

Please find more about hardware in this document.

QNX Operating system

The PC's run with the QNX operating system. QNX is a real-time operating system used in mission critical applications. It provides a solid foundation for running our software, the database, connecting to other systems and networks while providing robust, real-time control. Please see more details about the benefits our systems enjoy when using QNX operating system.

SQL database

AVECO systems use the Sybase SQL database. This robust and efficient data repository supports ODBC connectivity and allows our systems to talk to IT and traffic systems used by other departments in the TV station.

AVECO Automation Software Overview

Modular

Programmed in C++, we have developed a large set of individual software modules with their own proven, well defined functionality. A deeper level of functional flexibility is built into each module's set-up options to define several operational configurations within the module. Therefore our system designers, in close consultation with you, can configure your AVECO automation system to address your needs exactly. Our modules are the right size: not too large, where modular only means you buy or don't buy chunks, and not too small, where the pieces are a challenging puzzle that combine into a one-of-a-kind system. Let us prove the power of our systems to you. Tell us what you need from your automation. Let us show how our modules effective synthesize the TV environment and how they come together robustly to meet your requirements.

Once a system is running, changing its modular configuration or scaling it up is very easy. This means your AVECO system will always fit your needs.

Object Oriented Programming

At the core of our software module design lies object oriented programming. This increases the reliability of our systems, makes them easier to support and ensures an open, efficient path to new features, new technologies.

Object oriented programming is a systematic approach to software development that maintains clearly defined internal rules and structures. Here software is developed as objects and methods. Objects are code and data developed to perform a precisely defined function. Methods are the conceptual rules that specify how objects communicate with each other and how data is defined. Once an object is written, tested and implemented any changes to the system around it will not affect the object's integrity. Conversely, the object can be completely rewritten without affecting the system it fits into.

How does object oriented programming lead to increased reliability, better support and an open path for development of new functionality? Both the source code and the programming methodology are well organized and easy to track. Systems are reliable because the formalized programming structure imposes a discipline that reduces errors. Support is good because you do not need to talk the the engineer who programmed your installation to get the right answer for a support question; the system is understood by all engineers, not exclusively to the ones buried in the code or the ones who have spend days tracking the programming tree. Development of new functionality is effective since:

• the starting point is well defined.
• the path of development can mapped clearly.
• larger teams of engineers can be brought in to the project without having to spend exhausting hours making everyone familiar with the subtleties of the code already in place.
• the programming effort can advance in parallel on several components of the system speeding up the development cycle.

Memory Protected Address Spaces

Each software module is independently built and run on its own memory protected address space.

When configuring a system from existing modules, memory protection ensures that modules match precisely. If a module tries to overwrite memory used by another module, memory protection will trap the fault. Therefore, AVECO automation offers flexibility without compromising reliability. We have a building-block architecture defined by a rigid platform that maintains reliability. Your AVECO system is not patched together but fit accurately.

While the system is running, memory protection:

• isolates any software glitch within a module preventing it from affecting other modules and maintaining the smooth operation of the system. Therefore, the risk when adding a new module or a new device drivers to your AVECO system is limited. If that new module or driver has a problem, the integrity of the system is maintained.
• allows modules to be hot swapped safely while the system remains operational, as described next.

Hot-swappable

Most software modules can be hot-swapped while the system is running. Modules can be stopped, exchanged and restarted while the system stays on-air. This means your system can be fine-tuned or completely reconfigured dynamically. There is no need to shut down the system during system changes.

Since changes can be made to improve the system without interruption or risking the integrity of the core, you feel comfortable taking advantage of AVECO's real-time support to:

• Re-configure your system to meet your changing needs.
• Optimize your workflow by implementing a process, testing it, implementing an adjustment then testing again, and so on.

Transparency on the Automation Network

All software modules can run on any PC and can talk to their counterparts regardless of whether or not the modules are on the same PC or on a different PC on the automation network. Automation hardware and software components talk natively to each other across the automation network without the need for additional gateways, extensive software layers or duplicating components. This feature, which we call automation network transparency, allows us to set-up and configure any topology of a multiple PC system using LAN and WAN networks. This is crucial and allows you to:

• Grow your automation system by simply adding new hardware and software modules.
• Position user stations anywhere you need them. Any user station can control a playlist and devices located anywhere on the automation network. A single user station can control dispersed playlists and pools of equipment. Multiple user stations in separate locations can control the same playlists and devices of a centralized hub. Need to change the topology? Simply plug into the automation network where you would like and get to work. That is what automation network transparency means.
• Maintain high-levels of reliability by distributing the load to eliminating bottlenecks and single points of failure.

Topology of the system

Figure 1 shows the topology of AVECO automation systems. The hardware, QNX, database and automation network components that form the foundation to our systems have been described above. The other components shown in the figure are described in more detail below:

Timing:

The timing modules give frame accuracy to the automation system. The pace of the system time is given by videoreference. Time is synchronized by the station masterclock, a GPS receiver or NTP protocol. Time managers for each broadcast channel allow fine calibration of playout timing. Time coded control signals allow frame accurate commands to be implemented across WAN and compensate for variable transport delays.

Data Interfaces:

Connects the automation system to traffic systems and other information networks for playlist capture and reporting the as run log. Provides dynamic data exchange for fast pace operations like live newscasts and last minute commercial insertion by the sales team. Also delivers access to low-res browsing, thumbnails and metadata to news, commercial and other departments via LAN or WAN.

Native Applications:

Provides user interfaces (GUI) through dedicated automation terminals. The full power of AVECO's comprehensive automation is condensed into simple, intuitive and attractive screens. GUI's can be configured in the language and terms of choice. Information displayed can be configured by user or terminal to provide relevant information for the tasks at hand.

Web Based Applications:

Provides approved users access to the automation system via the Internet on client GUIs on web browsers.

Third Party Applications:

Provides client GUIs on any Microsoft Windows (TM) terminal connected to the automation server via LAN or WAN.

Access Management:

Controls access to the automation system and its functionality. Users or terminals can receive individual priority and access rights. Access rights can be granted to a single playlist and even for a single operation and category of events, say only to modify jingles, reschedule commercials or delete expired clips.

Media Management:

Puts the proper clip is in the proper place at the proper time. From scheduling recordings to playout to purge. Media management can direct transfers across LAN or WAN. Integrating distant locations is as easy as operating a single TV stations at one site.

Playlist Management:

Specifies precisely what, when and how content is delivered. The playlist supports different events, triggering options, transitions, audio modes and editing possibilities for smooth operations and to achieve an error free, attractive on-air look

Broadcasting:

The broadcast module checks and displays the on-air readiness status readiness for all events on the playlist. It triggers event transitions as directed by the playlist and puts the programming on air. Last minute changes are supported, even from other departments like news and sales if the appropriate access rights have been granted.

Device Control

Manages the devices controlled by the automation system. We have an extensive list of device drivers to integrate all classes of devices to our automation products. Please check our compatibility list for a match with devices you are using or thinking of acquiring. If you don't find a match , just let us know the device's make and model and we will connect it.

Diagnostics

Diagnostic subsystems monitor the automation systems and the devices under automation control.

The complete functionality of AVECO automation systems is described in detail in the functionality page.