Shifting tape to digital in the TV content world

A programme would need to a particular market’s needs, even as a simultaneous broadcast plays out across markets in the Asia Pacific. Subtitles in various languages, each of which likely comes from a different source, could be added to each frame with local advertisements slotted in during commercial breaks. Primetime television slots differ from market to market, while cuisine featured on food channels might need to be excluded from being shown in various markets for religious reasons. Some markets may also have television censorship laws that have to be adhered to.

 

Digital content editing and broadcast firms such as Encompass Digital Media hold the reins behind this content editing and collation process, which involves getting raw content from content providers converted to broadcast-ready states for the different markets. The company also ensures the various broadcasts run smoothly across the region from its broadcast facility, which houses satellite and fiber links. The company counts among its clients the Discovery Channel, the BBC and children’s animation house Rainbow Media.

 

Close to 100 channels are being broadcast simultaneously from Encompass Digital Media’s Asia facility alone. The facility runs a 24/7 operation 365 days a year with a 150-strong staff, and the business is one whose downtime is measured by the fraction of a second.