Imagine supports Kurdish broadcaster Rudaw’s transformation

Imagine Communications is to provide nextgen production and playout facilities for Iraq-based Rudaw Media Network, as part of the broadcaster’s transition to an all-new, state-of-the-art headquarters complex. The infrastructure will be built using SMPTE ST 2110 IP connectivity, providing 4K UHD capabilities for production and playout in a highly agile and scalable architecture that will offer Rudaw operational and cost efficiencies. The new installation will go live in early 2024.

Headquartered in Erbil, the capital of the Kurdish region of Iraq, Rudaw Media Network provides independent information in English, Kurdish, Arabic and Turkish. The network’s transformation roadmap entails migrating its operations to a new, eight-story complex that will house multiple studios and TV channels supported by IP infrastructure and 4K UHD playout and master control facilities. Working with systems integrator WAVE Media Solutions, Imagine is providing the complete IP playout automation and master control infrastructure, including multiviewers, UHD conversion processing, network orchestration and routing control.

“When we launched our channels 10 years ago, we were the first network in Kurdistan and Iraq to broadcast in HD,” said Hejar Berenji, CTO at Rudaw Media Network. “Today, our move to a greenfield site is the perfect opportunity to maintain that pioneering spirit by migrating to IP and 4K UHD. That is just part of our goal to create a channel and content that is engaging and relevant to our audiences.”

Berenji added: “Imagine’s state-of-the-art broadcast technology will, I believe, make a substantial contribution toward our organisation’s mission to impart information and facilitate communication, by empowering journalists and producers to seamlessly translate their visions onto the screen. Through the inauguration of this world-class, new facility, we are underscoring our ongoing technological leadership and affirming our commitment to maintaining a leading position within the industry.”

The new infrastructure at Rudaw Media Network will use a Cisco fabric for SMPTE ST 2110 IP connectivity. To ensure seamless integration of SDI and IP equipment, Rudaw will use Imagine’s Selenio Network Processor. Rudaw’s channel origination workflow will be built on Imagine’s Versio integrated playout platform and ADC automation. Imagine’s Magellan Control System will simplify management and operation of the workflow, from production and ingest to master control and playout.

“Imagine’s relationship with Rudaw Media Network dates back more than a decade and has continued to strengthen through multiple upgrades and advancements,” said Anas Hantash, head of Middle East, South Asia and North Africa at Imagine Communications. “We look forward to the next step in their exciting journey.”