Vertical: Broadcasting, Sports
Application: Live video streaming
Ecosystem: AT&T, Ericsson, Media Links, Teradek
Private Network: LTE, CBRS
The world of sports broadcasting is constantly evolving, pushing the boundaries of what’s possible in live coverage. A recent collaboration between AT&T, the American Rally Association (ARA), and several technology partners has demonstrated a new approach to broadcasting from extremely remote locations.
The Lake Superior Performance Rally, known for its challenging terrain and limited connectivity, became the testing ground for an innovative private wireless network solution. This event, held in the Upper Peninsula of Michigan, traditionally posed significant obstacles for live coverage due to its remote nature and lack of existing infrastructure.
AT&T’s Global Video Solutions team, working alongside Media Links and Teradek, deployed a private wireless network utilizing Citizen’s Broadband Radio Service (CBRS) spectrum. This setup, combined with AT&T’s fiber infrastructure, enabled the transmission of high-quality video feeds from various points along the rally course to a central production hub.
The heart of the operation was AT&T’s Extreme Production Motor Coach, a 45-foot mobile unit that housed the production equipment, CBRS radios, and Media Links’ fiber transport technology. This mobile command center served as the nexus for all connectivity and production needs, demonstrating the potential for remote broadcasting in challenging environments.
One of the key innovations was the use of CBRS technology, typically employed in stadiums and arenas, to create a robust wireless network. This allowed for the deployment of various camera setups, including in-car cameras, drones, and mobile units, all feeding into the central production hub.
The successful implementation of this technology opens up new possibilities for broadcasting events in remote locations. It showcases how private wireless networks can overcome the limitations of traditional infrastructure, potentially revolutionizing coverage of outdoor sports and adventure activities.
