Telstra Broadcast Services (TBS) has trialled 5G Standalone Network Slicing technology with leading Australian broadcaster Network Ten to test how this technology could support its live coverage of the Flemington Spring Racing carnival. Telstra’s 5G Network Slicing technology provides a video, audio and data connection that combines the low cost and availability of Telstra’s broad mobile network with the high-quality transport required to deliver live television.

The Spring Racing Carnival, held in Melbourne, is the premier racing event in Australia. It covers four days of racing and provides a great opportunity to explore the challenges and benefits for mobile media contribution. The large venue requires wireless cameras combined with the challenge of transmitting video signals of a fast-moving sport. Crowds of up to 5,000 create congestion on the network and the high-pressure environment of live television demands rugged and reliable technology.

Telstra’s trial setup was located within the Outside Broadcast precinct at Flemington Racecourse. It used a 5G modem and external antenna connected to a local mobile network cell powered by Ericsson that supports 5G Standalone (SA) with network slicing and radio resource partition.

Following the successful conclusion of this technical trial, Telstra will look at opportunities to extend the service to other customers, venues, and media contribution use-cases around the world.