IDX scores at HD World Cup

IDX power solutions were chosen to run HD radio cameras at this summer’s biggest sports event.
These were used with Presteigne Broadcast Hire’s free-moving camera equipment supplied for the coverage of the FIFA World Cup – with the largest global television audience and all-HD production.
At the World Cup two Grass Valley LDK 6000 HD cameras with Link Research LinkHD digital radio links provided the free-moving close-up shots. This state-of-the-art equipment as well as the control of the Cannon HJ11x HD lenses, was all powered by the camera battery. Having completed dry runs at their UK base, this was Presteigne’s first outing with their new IDX ENDURA equipment comprising 98Wh E-10 batteries with PowerLink for docking a second battery, and VL-4Si 4-channel simultaneous chargers.
Despite lacking real live-action experience Presteigne’s on-site systems engineer, Tony Ridler, was already optimistic. “We had a high level of confidence with the batteries from the start. The LED readout is really good, so we always knew where we were. Also the batteries are so much lighter; the cameramen really like them.”
Experience gained during the World Cup meant that the initial assignment of six E-10 batteries to each camera could be reduced to four. Ridler states, “The simultaneous charger was the biggest factor. It charges all four (batteries) at the same time so there’s always a fast turnaround. This is going to save on weight and cargo costs too.”
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