The project is Phase 1 of a multi-phase buildout, and required Grass Valley and Tab M Solutions to deliver an entirely new broadcast infrastructure within an existing facility, presenting space and thermal constraints. Tab M Solutions designed a hybrid SMPTE ST 2110/SDI architecture that allows staff to maintain familiar SDI workflows while leveraging IP where it delivers infrastructure efficiency and scalability.

The deployment includes five Grass Valley LDX 150 cameras with super slow-motion licenses, one LDX 135 RF wireless system, and a CCS-ONE camera control server. The LDX 150 cameras are deployed natively over ST 2110, eliminating traditional baseband CCUs and enabling direct connectivity from venues to the core IP switch. CCS-ONE centralizes shading and supports remote monitoring.

“Our objective was to elevate our game-day production while positioning Fighting Illini Productions for long-term growth,” said Derryl Myles, Associate Director of Athletics, Fighting Illini Productions & Technology. “The hybrid architecture allows us to incorporate IP strategically while maintaining familiar workflows, and the LDX 150 cameras provide the image quality, flexibility and performance we need to meet the expectations of Big Ten and our fanbase.”

By eliminating traditional CCUs and reducing hardware density, the design lowered rack space requirements and thermal load while simplifying integration within the existing control room footprint.