The PPU in Demand, on Demand

Datavideo UK is launching a new service to deliver bespoke, fully configured portable production units (PPU). A new web app will allow customers to specify the style of case, to select each module and design the layout of their PPU which can then be assembled and delivered in a matter of days, ready to go live.

Datavideo UK is launching a new service to deliver bespoke, fully configured portable production units (PPU). A new web app will allow customers to specify the style of case, to select each module and design the layout of their PPU which can then be assembled and delivered in a matter of days, ready to go live.

“While Datavideo already offers a range of preconfigured units, we are increasingly finding that customers have very individual needs. Datavideo is alone in being able to supply technology that covers the entire video production chain. Whether crews need to record multiple HD sources, stream live to local or global networks provide a broadcast television feed, or perform a variety of functions, we can now custom design each PPU incredibly quickly.” Explained Allan Leonhardsen of Datavideo distributor, Holdan.

By installing modules from a single manufacturer, integration is fast and compatibility concerns are not an issue. On the surface, elements like power supplies and system ergonomics may seem straight-forward. However, many vendors have idiosyncrasies that make integrating and using mixed manufacturer systems quirky at best and tiresome at worst. By using all Datavideo equipment, the PPU is pre-wired, pre-tested and ready for immediate use.

Leonhardsen continues: “We constantly see crews turning up for a shoot, unloading case after case of equipment and spending valuable time looking for power sockets, cabling each piece of kit and then re-learning how each component operates. This is a waste of valuable time and leads to crews cutting corners to go live on schedule. With Datavideo, we work on the mantra ‘live in seconds’ – in this media on demand world, anything less is an acceptable.” 

Datavideo manufactures rig base systems in a number of configurations - half rack, full rack and double rack. In each instance, portability and system ergonomics are to the fore giving users the ability to wheel their units into place, whether that’s in an ad hoc studio, a live event space or in a production vehicle. With each component safely powered by a single power distribution centre, Datavideo overcomes concerns over electrical supply and shortage of power sockets. Audio delay and sound mixing modules enables the PPU to integrate seamlessly with external microphones and the sound desk for complete audio-visual production.

New technology compatible with the PPU systems is constantly being added to the Datavideo inventory; recent additions include DVK-300HD, a live chroma key device; NVS-20, for HD encoding and streaming and RMK-2, a rack panel designed to host up to 8 mini signal converters. These new additions join a vast range of existing products for vision mixing, test and measurement, HD recording, live titling, remote camera control, talkback and much more.