DirecTV contracted Beck Associates to design and build control room and studio facilities for the launch of two new information channels on their satellite delivery service. From concept design to system launch, Beck Associates personnel were involved in the process. The facilities included two production control rooms with automation assist, two studios, two non-linear edit bays, and a central equipment room with automation ingest capabilities. In addition, a complete news room automation system was installed and integrated into the production process. Ingest features the capability to record up to eighteen incoming satellite signals, 24 hours per day, 7 days a week. In addition to the permanent facility, a temporary system was constructed in an area outside the construction zone to meet the “on-air” date. This system ran for several months while the general contractor completed construction at the new location. An extensive prewire was completed off site to allow a speedy completion of the permanent facility.
