Proof of Concept for Virtual Private Cloud Production with ‘M2L-X’ at International Sports Events
Fuji Television Network, Inc., one of Japan’s major broadcasting companies, has conducted operational tests of live cloud-based production using the software switcher M2L-X (Beta) during a sporting event in Europe. This collaboration between Fuji Television and Sony aims to address the high costs of network connections, the logistical burden of transporting large amounts of equipment, and the need for on-site personnel — challenges that are particularly significant in live overseas productions. Mr. Takahisa Sekiguchi, (Technical Production Technical Department Fuji Television Network, Inc.), shared their motivation for this operational test and his aspirations for the future based on these insights.
Background of the Test
The network costs associated with broadcasting live video content from international sporting events can be a major obstacle. We explored cloud solutions as a future option to mitigate this challenge. I believe that the technology chosen for production should adapt to circumstances as needed. Cloud usage, in particular, can be advantageous in cases where it’s logistically challenging or costly to transmit all signals from the event venue to the headquarters.
Additionally, the use of cloud infrastructure is generally paired with an Internet connection. Over recent years, there has been growing acceptance of Internet-based connections in broadcast systems. This is beneficial at international sites where traditional leased lines are often complex to arrange, as it reduces the need for intricate network configurations.
Our team selected Sony’s M2L-X for its compatibility with conventional switcher control panels (supported from Spring 2025 or later), making it easier for field staff to operate the system as they are accustomed to, while embracing new cloud-based solutions.
Impressions of the Operational Test
During the test, we noticed that the equipment setup was much simpler, requiring fewer devices than anticipated. This reduction in equipment not only makes the setup process easier but also leads to cost savings and reduces the time needed for system setup. Moving forward, we’ll consider the extent of spare equipment needed, but the ability to streamline the gear and wiring is already promising.
Additionally, we verified that camera feeds could be transmitted from the event venue to the cloud switcher via an Internet connection and switched using a GUI interface on a computer. (In this test, both the switching operation and video transmission took place within the same country as the system’s installation. Virtual cloud servers in a nearby region were selected to minimize operational and video latency.) Observing these results in a local environment was a valuable part of the project.
Challenges and Future Prospects
However, challenges emerged with the setup adjustments required for the cloud-based M2L-X (Beta), as well as with cloud-integrated audio, graphics, and multi-viewer applications. The complexity and lack of hands-on experience with these tools made it difficult to troubleshoot issues as they arose. Nonetheless, this experience was a learning opportunity, allowing us to gain practical knowledge. The cloud-based Cloud MX audio mixer from Waves Audio (upcoming support) and the Multi Viewer from TAG Video Systems, integrated with third-party applications, also played a role in these trials.
Outlook for Live Production
In recent years, budgets for sports broadcasting have become polarized, and in Japan, budget constraints have at times made it challenging to continue broadcast production. Yet, We are hopeful that we can maintain live sports broadcasting in the long run. Improving efficiency across all areas is essential to achieve this, and Fuji Television’s sports production and technical teams are well-prepared to tackle new challenges. As we continue seeking ways to enhance efficiency.
