Automation systems: today´s technology, tomorrow´s opportunities [broadcasting]

The approach taken by Sony to tackle the problem of the variety of system applications is discussed. They chose to build their systems around both Betacam SP (an analogue component format) and D-2 digital composite. The system architecture implemented enabled maximum distribution of intelligence and system flexibility, both in terms of the hardware and the software. A dedicated host computer interface is provided at the application level for the purpose of integrating the multicassette system with the news room, master control or traffic management systems