CaptionLabs proudly introduces the addition of StationDrop to its already popular closed captioning services.
StationDrop allows producers to deliver full-length broadcast programming to stations and networks digitally with no hassle, no tapes, and no shipping.
The Problem with Traditional Broadcast Delivery
Even though HD programming is quickly becoming the standard for television broadcast, many producers are still spending thousands of dollars shipping Betacam tapes around the country — and even around the globe.
Once the program arrives at the TV station, the tape is then ingested into a digital broadcast server, which will be used to play the program over the air.
The High Cost of Tape Shipping and Transfer
Ultimately, a program starts digitally on an edit system and broadcasts digitally from a video server.
Tape is only used as a transfer mechanism between the two computers.
StationDrop bridges the gap between the two by digitally delivering files over the Internet.
How StationDrop Simplifies Digital Transfers
The online transfer of large video files requires a transport protocol that is designed specifically for broadcast, and the process of moving these files must be easy for the producer.
Both these concerns have been addressed with StationDrop.
The producer simply places an executable application on the computer desktop.
Once a program is ready for transfer, the file is dropped onto the icon and the transfer begins.
The data is moved using a UDP protocol that is reliable, efficient, and secure.
Simplifying Broadcast File Delivery
StationDrop makes the transfer process simple and efficient for producers, eliminating the need for complicated systems.
Adding Closed Captioning with StationDrop
Adding closed captioning to the program is also made easy.
With the available expertise and resources of CaptionLabs, closed captions are created and then added to the video programming before delivery.
When the program arrives at the station, it already contains the closed captions, which are required by the FCC.
Streamlining Closed Captioning for Broadcast Programming
StationDrop ensures that closed captioning is integrated into the program seamlessly, making it ready for broadcast with no additional steps.
Benefits of StationDrop for SD and HD Programming
StationDrop is able to deliver both SD and HD programming, a feature that saves producers tens of thousands of dollars in HD tape machines.
And by eliminating tape stock and shipping, the savings are realized with every digital delivery made.
Cost Savings and Efficiency with Digital Delivery
By transitioning to digital delivery, producers can significantly cut costs while improving delivery speed and quality.
Ben Kalb
Ben is a broadcast engineer and creator of StationDrop. With a longevity in the broadcast industry, over 20 years, Ben has experience with everything from 1” tape reels to completely file-based workflows. Recently, Ben has broken into the world of coffee. Ask him about his latest brew.
