Magna Systems has designed, built and completed the first full UHD and IP processing OB truck in Southeast Asia for Singapore’s media network and largest content creator.

As their existing OB truck approached end of life, the media organisation had a requirement for a new, technologically advanced truck that would be at the very cutting edge of outside broadcast and production by leapfrogging into IP workflows.

For this critical project they chose Magna Systems as the OB truck designers and builders.

A key requirement for the new truck was that it be upgraded to UHD so it could be at the forefront to of high-quality production. An additional requirement was for a test bed for IP workflows to further deepen and strengthen knowledge of ST-2110 design and implementation.

Additional requirements for the new OB truck were comprehensive and included UHD full internal processing, UHD and HD copper and fibre interconnections to reduce cabling and speed up OB deployment, the ability for remote working over long distances and the HD to interface to the correct systems to allow for working with other OB companies and HD-UHD migration.

Compatibility with Campus Systems and contribution and seamless integration into an on-site theatre were key as were full IP workflows that were easy to use. The truck also had to be futureproofed so it could be expandable for larger events.

In order to meet these requirements Magna specified and integrated 20 full UHD cameras (16 wired and 4 wireless), full internal UHD processing, hybrid HD compatibility for events, full UHD replay and UHD super slow.

Magna Systems group CEO Matthew Clemesha said, “It was an honour to deliver this landmark project. Our team collaborated closely with the coachbuilder and client to architect the truck from the ground up – including all electrical systems and interior finishes. We handled the technical design, importation, registration and installation and completed full configuration with support from manufacturers and Magna group personnel.”

Magna also helped with training, performed site tests, supported OB events and project managed and coordinated all aspects of the build with all suppliers and vendors from cutting metal to first production.

The new OB truck is typically used as an external production hub from the National Stadium and other arenas. It was also the main truck used for Singapore’s National Day production earlier this year.

The truck will also be used for international sporting events such as the Toyota World Para Swimming Championships and as a control room for the company’s theatre.

Magna Systems Director – Sales and Operations (Asia) Patrick So added, “This new OB truck is the first and only fully UHD and IP processing truck in Southeast Asia. It is also particularly efficient production vehicle as a compact truck with a very powerful infrastructure and significant IP backbone. This gives the client the ability to perform the most challenging HD and UHD OBs such as global events and large UHD concerts. It’s a future-ready platform for the next decade of premium OB production.”