The use of robotics helps newsrooms to raise their production values, says Karen Walker

During the last decade, automation has been seen as the most innovative solution to make programmes more dynamic, while at the same time meeting the increasing demands of newsroom budgets. 

Studio camera robotics has opened up a raft of new creative possibilities and viewers have become accustomed to more engaging and imaginative broadcasting in news bulletins.

From the first introduction of robotic camera movements creating the distinctive sweeps and fast moves to the increased use of virtual and augmented reality applications, robotic equipment is now a staple part of many studio set ups.

In recent years, robotics solutions have moved further towards a true IP-based system that make use of standard commodity IT, including standard switches and Ethernet cables, which can be taken all the way to the robots.

One of the core benefits for newsrooms is that broadcasters’ IT teams are already familiar with the technology, so it can be installed in advance of a manufacturer fitting the robotics system.

With smart interfaces, connecting the robotics to the studio systems is comparatively simple.

Networked systems offer much greater flexibility, enabling studios to choose best of breed solutions for each aspect of the robotic system.

The equipment can also be remotely supported, and the flexibility of Ethernet-enabled products allows the robots to be moved around, either within the main news studio, or from one studio to another.

Some robotic control systems can also manage a large number of cameras over a simple IP protocol so control could be extended beyond cameras in the local studio to operate a number of external cameras, for example those in regional or remote news studios.

Flexible equipment and studios will be a key part of newsrooms of the future.

On the creative side, one growing area is broadcasters exploring more ‘immersive’ experiences – making the viewer feel as if they are part of the story and there in person rather than simply watching a programme.

Virtual reality systems will continue to create more immersive experiences in news and there will be a marked increase in these applications in the near future.

Creativity and the demand for flexibility also extend to specific studio equipment.

News studios are changing their layout more rapidly as they are adapting to new media and utilising the spaces for everything from virtual environments to second screen applications.

Robotic equipment needs to have the capability to adapt to new layouts easily without re-configuring or installing new hardware and broadcasters should consider the flexibility of gear to future proof the studio for this eventuality.

The pressure on news broadcasters to differentiate themselves from their competitors and produce more dynamic coverage with shrinking budgets is not likely to go away in the near future.

Robotics in the newsroom will be at the forefront of any changes and as more innovative products are introduced to the market broadcasters can be assured that they will have the necessary flexibility and creativity that is crucial for their future productions. 

Karen Walker is product director at Vinten Radamec

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