NRK installs a Shotoku robotic system on its main news set

Among other solutions, NRK has integrated the SmartTrack automated traveling system as well as a solution for remote control of the cameras arranged in its eleven regional studios.

NRK, Norway's public broadcaster, has installed a complete system of robotic cameras Shotoku in its main news studio in Oslo. Among other solutions, NRK has integrated the SmartTrack automated traveling system as well as a solution for remote control of the cameras arranged in its eleven regional studios, which from now on can be controlled locally or remotely from the Oslo headquarters.

The SmartTrack system combines strength and finesse to achieve smooth yet fast camera movements. James Eddershaw, sales director at Shotoku, points out that this system was perfect for the Norwegian broadcaster due to its travel speed, elevation range, motion control and payload for camera and prompter. “In addition, the Mat Lizard-Dolly and Towercam technology, at the core of the SmartTrack system, has proven so reliable that it is already being used in The daily revue, the most watched news program in Norway,” says Eddershaw.

In studio 5, Shotoku has installed four Dolly SmartTrack systems, with TG-18 PT heads. One of the two tracking shots takes the two main cameras marking an arc around the main set. A second tracking shot follows a slightly larger arc spanning a set adjacent to the main one. A third system has been installed at the back of the studio for general panoramic shots and opening and closing shots of the news.
Shotoku has also equipped a smaller studio, Studio 7, with a simple SmartTrack system with TG-27 pedestals.

All systems in both studios are controlled from the TR-XT touchscreen system. The capacity and flexibility of these systems ensure NRK operators quickly and easily define camera movements well in advance, and with a single touch on the touch screen initiate the most complex camera movements. Each TR-XT can access any of the cameras in the studio and control is automatically shared between the main operator and, if necessary, the producer.

Additionally, TR-XT systems can take control of cameras in other studios via WAN connection, including any of NRK's ​​11 regional centers located throughout Norway. Along with direct operator control, the entire system is connected to NRK's ​​Viz Mosart automation system for full automation when required. Finally, the TR-XT system also allows NRK to control other PTZ cameras for certain productions.

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