Features of the new studio include:

SWITCHER:
The switcher is the backbone of any studio. Everything goes through it, and all the cameras,
graphics and pre-produced elements are selected using it. The Ross switcher in the Music and Speech building was installed in the mid-80s and has 8 inputs. The new switcher, made by Grass Valley, has 48 inputs and 24 outputs, and gives students the ability to create elaborate productions. It is fully customizable, and is flexible enough to teach simple switching to beginners, or produce complicated shows.

CHYRON:
Graphics are currently put on the air using software called “Chyron,” which is used by low cost add-on for a PC. Since graphic output is dependent upon a powerful computer, the new “Chyron” will have a dedicated computer that outputs two separate channels and allows users the same type of intensive graphics that one might see on CNN or NFL broadcasts.

ENPS (Electronic News Production System):
The Associated Press’s ENPS software is the production standard in most newsrooms, and helps to create the newscast and shows. In Franklin Hall, it will continue to be used. Most of the equipment being installed will communicate with ENPS to add to the efficiency and productivity of the newsroom.

PLAYBACK:
A 360 systems server (a low cost playback server) is the current equipment used for content playback during studio productions. It is limited in its capabilities — the input of video is cumbersome and the interface is complicated. It will be replaced by the Grass Valley K2, which offers more storage, more outputs and better content management. It can also communicate better with other aspects of the production. Producers will be able to build play lists in ENPS. Editors will be able to export projects quickly and easily. During live productions the playback will be more reliable, plus, it can be controlled in different ways by different players in the control room.

CAMERAS:
There are 2 cameras in the TV-2 studio. They are old and outdated, and will be replaced by three new high-definition cameras, with the option to purchase more. The cameras purchased are field cameras that with additional accessories will allow the cameras to operate in the studio.