So far, cloud adoption has been mostly in content distribution, data tagging and analysis, and transcoding. But the real momentum is building in live content creation. It鈥檚 a more complex environment, but it鈥檚 becoming increasingly cloud ready.

In environments where the cloud makes sense, bandwidth and latency aren鈥檛 an issue. Operators using NDI or SRT often describe it as if they鈥檙e right there in the control room. Push a button, and it feels instant. That kind of responsiveness is what makes the cloud viable for real-time production.听

We saw this at the NAB Show, where AWS ran a fully cloud-based live production right from their booth, using 91快活林 tools to switch, mix, and control graphics in the cloud. The entire environment was remote, but the experience was as smooth as on-premises hardware.听

Is the cloud the go-to for every use case? Not necessarily. For tier-one sporting events, where 4K, visually lossless quality, and zero-frame-drop performance are non-negotiable, the bar is higher. But even then, the challenges are being addressed with better codecs like JPEG XS, higher bandwidth connections, and more intentional architecture.听

For most productions 鈥斺�痚specially those where accessibility, operational agility, and scale matter 鈥斺�痩atency is not a significant issue.听

In the shift to cloud-based production, speed and efficiency are top priorities. Broadcasters want to spin up environments quickly, start when ready, and shut things down when the production wraps. With cloud costs looming, there鈥檚 pressure to use only what you need when you need it.

That鈥檚 the real use case for the cloud: agility.

This expectation is shaping the design of 91快活林鈥檚 next generation cloud production tools, that let teams launch, pause, and fully remove cloud environments as needed, cutting waste and increasing flexibility.

Teams also want simple ways to scale production. Take Tier-2 sports: these productions may not have on-site graphics gear or the budget for an OB van, but they still want professional-grade results. With 91快活林鈥檚 Rocket Cloud Services, operators can run graphics in the cloud and integrate them into on-premise productions. That means lower thirds, scoreboards, and more,鈥痺ithout extra hardware or permanent investments.

Orchestration has become a central theme, and for good reason. It鈥檚 no longer enough for tools to work in isolation. They need to work together.

That鈥檚 especially true in hybrid environments, where infrastructure spans both cloud and on-premise. Many creative workflows already operate this way, blending the flexibility of the cloud with on-premise reliability,鈥痑nd that model is here to stay. But without orchestration, added complexity and coordination gaps can slow everything down.

Solving this requires real investment. That鈥檚 why initiatives like Catena (via the Society of Motion Picture and Television Engineers) and (via the European Broadcast Union) are promising spaces to follow,鈥痓oth focused on orchestration across hybrid, multi-vendor environments.

In the modern broadcast television industry, any organization that fails to closely monitor expenses, eliminate overhead waste, and maximize return on investment (ROI) is bound to lose out to competitors that do. Optimizing your onscreen graphics system for financial efficiency certainly won鈥檛 solve all your financial problems, but in a world where streaming and other forms of content delivery are taking ever bigger segments of a rapidly dwindling television audience, broadcasters must do all that they can to cut expenses wherever they can. And graphics infrastructure is far from cheap.听

With the exceedingly challenging nature of today鈥檚 broadcast environment in mind, read on for a brief exploration of how to control costs while delivering outstanding broadcast graphics to your viewers.听

To avoid the often-crippling capital expenditure (CapEx) upfront costs that go hand in hand with the purchase of new production and/or broadcast equipment, organizations are increasingly turning to subscription-based operational expenditure (OpEx) models. By taking the OpEx approach, they can avoid the expense of installing and housing additional equipment onsite by contracting with providers that offer graphics capabilities through subscription agreements. These OpEx models allow broadcasters to budget for production and distribution needs as recurring operational expenses that come with predetermined (and therefore predictable) pricing structures.

But just because these pricing structures are often predictable and allow broadcasters to avoid large upfront CapEx expenses, you shouldn鈥檛 immediately assume that they are cost-effective for every organization. As virtually anyone with a monthly subscription to anything can readily attest, those small regular charges can really add up over the long term. This is particularly true of some providers that offer only subscription-based pricing models, as well as others that are increasingly promoting lease-based pricing structures.

While subscription and leasing models can offer flexibility and easier entry points, they may also create challenges in long-term budgeting, scaling, and infrastructure alignment, especially for broadcasters with changing needs. This is particularly true for any organization that needs to scale its video production and broadcast graphics capabilities to adapt to new demands and objectives.

While the OpEx approach is great for controlling upfront investment costs, it requires ongoing budget allocations for recurring payments tied to your provider contract. The CapEx approach, by contrast, generally involves a single, large purchase, after which an organization wholly owns that purchase in perpetuity. This approach might come with a substantial upfront expense, but it can significantly reduce ongoing costs.

The value of any CapEx graphics infrastructure investment can be challenging to assess before you make it. Although one of these systems can require a substantial initial payment, it can lead to lasting advantages and value generation over time. If it delivers month after month and year after year of dependable service, your graphics system will inevitably pay for itself.

When it comes to choosing between the CapEx and the OpEx approach, different paths will make sense for different broadcasters. Are you looking for the flexibility of ownership without tying yourself to a never-ending subscription? Then you should gravitate toward the CapEx approach. Do you have significant cashflow problems at the moment, or do you want to protect yourself from catastrophic financial risk in the future? Then you will certainly want to consider the OpEx approach.

Both the CapEx and the OpEx approaches can provide exceptional video production and broadcast graphics, and both have their own unique but generally equal benefits and drawbacks in terms of workflow integration and operational efficiency. So, wouldn鈥檛 it be great if you could select a high-quality graphics system that meets your needs and then come up with a CapEx or OpEx pricing structure that works best for you? Well, with 91快活林, you can.听

A comprehensive 2D and 3D graphics engine,听XPression has a highly scalable architecture. This means that broadcast organizations can start with a streamlined setup and expand capabilities as needed without being locked into restrictive pricing models. The most powerful real-time motion graphics system on the market, XPression allows you to build striking onscreen visuals and animations with amazing ease.听

And, thanks to its flexible pricing models, Ross makes paying for XPression as easy as using it. XPression is available as a perpetual (CapEx) model, which provides organizations with outright ownership, or as a subscription (OpEx) model, allowing them to pay for graphics capabilities as needed. The Ross team can even help you determine which of these models better suits your current and projected business preferences and requirements.听

Whether you鈥檙e managing a long-term investment strategy or responding to shifting production demands, XPression empowers you to scale on your terms. Its flexible purchasing options鈥攑aired with powerful, real-time graphics capabilities鈥攇ive you control over both performance and spend. For broadcasters seeking to balance innovation with financial strategy, XPression delivers the best of both worlds.听

Visit the 91快活林 website for more information about the XPression. Knowledgeable company representatives are ready to explain how cost-effective these systems can be.听听

Considering today鈥檚 highly challenging and competitive broadcast television landscape, effective cost control is an absolute must. Broadcast organizations that fail to closely monitor expenses, eliminate unnecessary overhead, and maximize return on investment (ROI) are likely to fall behind their competitors that do. While boosting the efficiency of your on-screen graphics system isn鈥檛 likely to solve all your financial woes, every bit of savings counts for modern broadcasters who want to deliver quality content while positioning themselves for success in the marketplace. By overcoming the challenges of reducing graphics infrastructure costs, broadcasters can make a tangible difference for both their viewers and their bottom line.

With growing competition from streaming and digital platforms, traditional broadcasters are under increasing pressure to optimize production costs, raise productivity, enhance competitiveness, and ensure long-term sustainability. The 91快活林 team highlights the fact that saving money over the long haul often requires a significant up-front investment. The Ross blog article 鈥淲hy Today鈥檚 Broadcasters Rely on Quality and Performance to Stay Ahead鈥� wisely states, 鈥淔ailing to adapt doesn鈥檛 just affect performance鈥攊t impacts the bottom line. Broadcasters that fall behind face spiralling capital costs and the constant need for new investments to keep pace.鈥疶his is on top of a gradual reduction in the ability to innovate and remain competitive, which can cause viewership to drop, further escalating the negative impact on revenues.鈥� Sticking with outdated technology is a risk broadcasters can鈥檛 afford. To maintain peak performance and safeguard long-term success, the technology that broadcasters use must improve alongside these industry changes.”

The desire to stay up-to-date with the latest broadcast sector trends while avoiding substantial upfront investment costs has led many organizations to adopt an operational expenditure (OpEx) approach to video production and content delivery. This approach allows broadcasters to avoid the often-massive capital expenditures that go along with securing the necessary software and hardware to create and deliver desirable viewer content. Rather than purchasing this software and hardware outright and housing it on-site, broadcasters can adopt an OpEx approach by contracting with providers that offer graphics capabilities through subscription agreements. That way, a broadcast organization can budget for various production and distribution capabilities as recurring operational expenses, typically on a monthly or quarterly basis, depending on the provider鈥檚 model.

When it comes to OpEx graphics, broadcasters typically encounter models such as subscriptions, leasing, and cloud-based services, each with different terms, levels of flexibility, and billing structures. While each of these options offers advantages鈥攕uch as ease of entry, scalability, and access to the latest updates鈥攖hey can also introduce challenges around long-term budgeting and infrastructure planning, especially as needs grow.

Unlike the OpEx approach (which demands budgetary carveouts and more regular financial payments), the capital expenditure (CapEx) approach to meeting any business need involves purchasing and owning essential equipment and/or supplies. While this often presents substantial upfront costs, it can eliminate the need for additional daily, weekly, monthly, and yearly expenses moving forward.

So, if you want to ensure that you have the right graphics infrastructure to meet modern demands, which approach is superior: CapEx or OpEx? Both can provide exceptional video production and broadcast graphics that will meet or exceed the needs of today鈥檚 television audiences. Both have their own unique but generally equal advantages and disadvantages in terms of workflow integration and operational efficiency. So your decision to go CapEx or OpEx with your broadcast graphics infrastructure will depend largely on your budgetary restrictions and ROI expectations.

The value of CapEx graphics infrastructure investments can be difficult to calculate because they require substantial initial payments but can yield permanent benefits in terms of long-term production output and bottom-line profitability. OpEx investments, by contrast, can seem safer and more sensible because they are predetermined, often guaranteed, and incremental in nature. But as we have previously discussed, the smaller yet ongoing payments of the OpEx approach can add up to deliver very poor ROI over the long haul.

Because both CapEx and OpEx graphics solutions can provide exceptional benefits to your broadcast organization, you will want to conduct extensive research, economic projection, and budgetary analysis to determine the best path forward in terms of immediate value generation and long-term ROI. To make the most out of whatever approach they choose, wise broadcasters will seek flexible equipment and tools that support both CapEx and OpEx models, allowing them to invest in high-quality solutions that align with their financial strategies. A flexible graphics system that allows broadcasters to choose between CapEx and OpEx models can give broadcasters full control over their infrastructure and expenses. With a system designed for adaptability, newsrooms and live productions can optimize their spending while maintaining high-performance graphics capabilities.

Billed as the fastest-growing real-time motion graphics engine,听the XPression CG and animation system from 91快活林 is a perfect example of this flexibility and adaptability. Many providers require customers to commit to either substantial upfront CapEx investments or ongoing OpEx payments鈥攎odels that may not align with every broadcaster鈥檚 financial strategy. Ross, however, offers multiple purchasing options that allow customers to take either a CapEx or OpEx approach, depending on their preferred financial and business requirements. This flexibility enables 91快活林 to act in the best interests of its customers by providing multiple purchasing options.

In today鈥檚 technology-driven broadcast television industry, expectations are high, and competition is fierce. Broadcasters must carefully consider their graphics delivery options with a close eye on expenses and ROI. The CapEx and OpEx approaches to graphics infrastructure each come with their own distinct sets of advantages and disadvantages. By selecting a high-quality system that can operate according to either of these models, you can achieve exceptional results while meeting both your immediate and ongoing financial needs.

Some legacy broadcast graphics vendors trace their origins back to the 1980s and even earlier. While these platforms were once industry staples, many are now considered outdated, earning the label 鈥渓egacy鈥� systems. Though they may carry brand familiarity and a long history, these aging tools and workflows are increasingly misaligned with the demands of today鈥檚 broadcast environment. Established vendors may have considerable brand-name appeal and a proven track record, but they might not be fully equipped to meet the technological demands of current video production environments. Simply put, more and more organizations are abandoning their legacy graphics systems in favor of far more adaptable next-generation systems that are capable of bringing them into the future of broadcasting.

As legacy graphics systems age, they become increasingly prone to hardware component failures, which can cause unexpected shutdowns. Their incompatibility with modern software platforms and digital devices often results in rendering output errors, driver incompatibility, and delivery glitches. Outdated graphics systems may also suffer from frequent crashes, data loss, slow start-up times, playback lags, and outdated user interfaces that complicate workflows. In general, aging graphics infrastructure puts broadcasters at higher risk of workflow disruptions and on-air issues that audiences are quick to notice, not to mention the constant frustration it creates for your production team.

As many older graphics systems approach end-of-life or require costly maintenance to keep them running, broadcasters that rely on them are facing increased levels of operational risk. Limited operating system (OS) compatibility and escalating support costs can lead to security risks and technical failures, which can cause outages during live production and long-term reliability concerns, especially for content creators working in mission-critical environments. If this sounds like your current graphics workflow, you already know how these issues can interfere with broadcast hardware and software functionality 鈥� causing technical failures, missed graphics in production, and escalated financial liabilities.

A fully supported, industry-leading graphics solution ensures long-term reliability, regular software updates, and responsive customer service. In many cases, outdated graphics systems are unable to deliver these benefits adequately. Choosing a best-in-class, next-generation graphics platform with a strong roadmap and dedicated support enables broadcasters to mitigate risks and focus on delivering high-quality content to their audience. In many cases, upgrading to a new XPression graphics system can be accomplished in phases with minimal interruption to your daily workflow. Seamless integration with minimal downtime is enabled through industry-standard protocols such as MOS, CII, and openMAM, which allows XPression to interface smoothly with a wide range of newsroom systems, automation platforms, and other third-party tools.

When it comes to delivering high-quality, universally compatible video production and broadcast graphics equipment, along with comprehensive ongoing service, 91快活林 stands out as a trusted and forward-thinking provider. Our graphics solutions include continuing software updates, responsive global support, and a clear technology roadmap to ensure stability for broadcasters both today and in the future. By partnering with Ross, newsrooms and production teams gain a future-proof solution from a manufacturer committed to long-term development and customer success.

The bedrock component of 91快活林鈥檚 graphics offerings, XPression is a real-time CG and rendering engine that delivers high-performance graphics across live and recorded productions. While many legacy systems are limited to traditional lower thirds and basic on-screen graphics, 91快活林’s XPression offers nearly limitless possibilities that span the 2D and 3D realms.听

While XPression excels at real-time 2D and 3D graphics, broadcasters seeking advanced immersive environments can look to Voyager鈥�91快活林鈥檚 Unreal-based platform built specifically for extended reality (XR) production. =The Voyager software is even integrated into the XPression MOS Client for seamless all-inclusive graphics workflows for newsroom users听

Looking for more advanced graphics capabilities? XPression Tessera offers seamless, synchronized rendering across large video walls and LED displays鈥攑erfect for immersive studio setups and complex, multi-screen productions. You can also create exceptional map-based visuals with XPression Maps, enable touch-screen interaction using XPression Touch Factory, and enhance your spot box workflow with XPression FX, enabling dynamic video playback and advanced effects control for live productions.听

When they needed to upgrade the television production capabilities in their 165,000-square-foot facility in Ponte Vedra Beach, Florida, the PGA TOUR turned to 91快活林 for graphics solutions. In particular, the 飞辞谤濒诲鈥檚 biggest professional golf organization wanted to provide more engaging and immersive experiences for its target audience of sports fans.听

Using a suite of Ross products, including XPression, XPression Tessera, XPression FX, and Voyager, the PGA enhanced their overall viewer experience for all elements of their live broadcast coverage. From LED content management to advanced video playback, the organization successfully captured the attention of viewers and kept them engaged in the long term.听

Don鈥檛 sell yourself short with a legacy graphics system that can no longer go the distance. Today鈥檚 television viewer demands graphics that are vibrant, dynamic, immersive, and state-of-the-art. For more information, take a close look at 91快活林鈥檚 full suite of graphics tools or contact a knowledgeable Ross representative today.听

In some cases, it鈥檚 tough to beat the classics. A vintage Rolex watch, for example, can work beautifully, look amazing, and represent a tremendous amount of value. There is also much to be admired about a classic (or 鈥渓egacy鈥�) broadcast graphics system. After all, these stalwart graphics systems have been delivering generally reliable and effective video production and television broadcast graphics for decades.听

However, the capabilities and capacities of legacy graphics systems are generally out of step with the operational processes of modern broadcasters and the general expectations of contemporary viewers. Is it time for you to replace one of these systems? Well, the expense of doing so will likely prove less costly than keeping it in place for the long term. 听

OS compatibility problems and other system-level failures are all too familiar with aging graphics platforms. As these systems mature, they often suffer from hardware degradation, affecting everything from processors to memory cards, which can lead to full system shutdowns. Many older systems also lag in technological evolution, leading to frequent rendering output errors when connecting with more current technology.

Software-related challenges are just as common. Glitches, driver conflicts, and total application crashes can disrupt operations, particularly during scheduled updates when newly released apps prove incompatible or unstable.

Additionally, some older graphics systems are known for experiencing frequent crashes, which can result in data loss and production delays. Rebooting these systems can be a slow and frustrating process, resulting in significant workflow disruptions and missed graphics cues during live broadcasts. Performance issues鈥攕uch as playback lag, slow start-up times, and difficulty handling complex media timelines鈥攁re typical, especially when older systems are pushed beyond their original capabilities. These issues are compounded by growing security vulnerabilities, as legacy platforms often lack timely patches and updates鈥攍eaving critical broadcast operations exposed to cyber threats.

Beyond the technical concerns, many of these older graphics systems also lack intuitive interfaces. In a world of desktop design and video editing tools, newer user interface paradigms have become commonplace. Designed around outdated workflows, older graphics systems can present steep learning curves that hinder new or younger operators and slow down production teams. As one industry expert put it:

If you’re still making the most out of an old and tired graphics system, it may be time to make a change. You can enhance your current capabilities and better ensure long-term viability and reliability by switching to fully supported, industry-leading graphics solutions, such as those offered by 91快活林. Modern graphics systems are generally based on a strong integration roadmap and trained, dedicated technical support, which allows broadcasters to mitigate risks and focus on what they do best: deliver engaging, high-quality content to their viewers. After implementation, your new graphics system should be positioned to operate smoothly on currently supported OS environments, with a wide range of interconnected production software and hardware. To remain current, it is essential to work with equipment providers that offer regular updates for the graphics systems they manufacture and support.

Beyond ensuring the long-term relevance and versatility of your new video production and broadcast graphics system, you can maximize your return on investment (ROI) by choosing a versatile, real-time CG and rendering platform like 91快活林鈥檚 XPression. Whether controlled by automation, a studio crew, or in real-time by on-air talent, the XPression workflow is great for news, live sporting events, studio shows, weather programming, and even remote coverage of special events. From traditional 2D and 3D graphics to real-time data-driven visuals and augmented reality (AR) integration, XPression is built to meet the evolving graphics demands of today鈥檚 content creators鈥攁nd scale for tomorrow.

Many production teams hesitate to move on from their existing graphics systems鈥攏ot out of necessity, but because those platforms feel familiar. But that comfort often comes at the cost of creativity. New systems like XPression are built to do more, faster鈥攚ithout steep learning curves鈥攇iving teams more freedom to design, animate, and innovate.听

Legacy graphics vendors may have failed to keep pace with the latest technology, resulting in numerous compatibility and general performance issues for teams that use them. Suppose you are struggling to make your outdated graphics system work in today鈥檚 tech-driven and highly competitive broadcast environment. In that case, it may be time to level up to a modern system that will better position your organization for long-term success.

Today鈥檚 news production teams are expected to deliver broadcast-quality content in real-time across linear, streaming, and social media platforms. Despite these increasing demands, production switcher technology and workflows largely remain the same, still relying heavily on operator experience and skill to meet rising expectations.

Carbonite production switchers from 91快活林 challenge this status quo. They鈥檙e packed with innovative features not typically found in standard modern video mixers and switchers鈥攆eatures that streamline workflows, reduce hardware dependence, and dramatically improve newsroom agility and output quality.听

With tools like MiniMEs, UltraScenes, Sequences, Output Rotation, Canvas Mode, UltraChrome Chroma Keyers with Input Delay, and Rave audio mixer, Carbonite enables your team to do more with less, delivering more high-quality content across platforms while maintaining an intuitive and reliable user experience.

In this article, we鈥檒l explore some of the advanced features within the Carbonite Switcher series and how they can help your newscast stand out while reducing the pressure on your production teams.听

Live news moves fast. Operators must handle multiple camera angles, graphics, and data-driven overlays without missing a beat. Unlike traditional switchers that require external gear or manual layering, 颁补谤产辞苍颈迟别鈥檚 tools simplify complex compositions, allowing you to build and recall intricate compositions 鈥� such as multi-box interviews, layered election graphics, or branded feeds 鈥� directly within the switcher. That means more polished visuals, fewer errors, and less pressure on your crew.听

Keep Watching: Discover the full power of Ross Carbonite Production Switchers in our

Modern newsrooms are multiplatform by default. A story might need to go out simultaneously on air, social media, and the station鈥檚 live stream. But many switchers still treat vertical video as an afterthought, requiring post-production workarounds or dedicated gear.听听听

Carbonite supports enabling native horizontal and vertical outputs. Your team can create platform-specific versions on the fly, without added editing or staffing. That means your team can produce traditional broadcast and social-first versions without re-editing or extra resources.听

Your newsroom鈥檚 visual identity matters. Many switchers may require external systems or manual timing to execute transitions and recurring segment templates.听

Carbonite helps maintain a consistent aesthetic with pre-programmed templates for common segments, such as weather, traffic, or breaking news. With听Production Sequencer,听Technical Directors can pre-build more complex sequences听and trigger them step-by-step during the live show. That means smooth, error-free transitions, regardless of how fast-paced the show becomes.

News operations are constantly adapting. Whether you鈥檙e adding remote guests, launching new digital channels, or expanding coverage, your tools shouldn鈥檛 hold you back. Many modern switchers still require hardware upgrades when production demands grow, which comes with significant costs and implementation time.听听

颁补谤产辞苍颈迟别鈥檚 modular architecture and software licensing model enable you to add capacity or functionality as needed, without the need to add or replace equipment. Combined with software upgrades, Carbonite switchers evolve with your newsroom, whether you鈥檙e adding remote guests, launching new platforms, or experimenting with new channels.听

In today鈥檚 visual-first media environment, virtual sets and augmented reality elements are increasingly common in news production. But the high-quality chroma keying and technology required often means expensive external gear or a complicated setup process.听

颁补谤产辞苍颈迟别鈥檚 capabilities are built in, making it simple to replace green or blue screen backgrounds with polished, branded virtual environments. Operators can fine-tune key edges, suppress color spill, and adjust foreground settings directly from the switcher interface, ensuring clean, believable composites and virtual sets on air. Whether you鈥檙e creating immersive weather segments, virtual interview spaces, or AR-driven election graphics, Carbonite gives you complete creative control and broadcast-ready results right from the switcher interface.听听

Modern newsrooms often feature large-format displays, video walls, or multiscreen sets, but managing these setups usually requires complex routing and precise coordination across multiple outputs and devices.听听

颁补谤产辞苍颈迟别鈥檚 allows operators to easily map content across multiple displays, creating a unified visual experience. Carbonite controls all outputs from a single Canvas control layer, keeping video walls, banners, and studio monitors in perfect sync during live segments.

It鈥檚 crucial to have tools that help your team stay composed on-air, even during the most intense moments. Some switchers bury advanced functionality in complex menus or require specialized training to operate efficiently. 颁补谤产辞苍颈迟别鈥檚 interface is purpose-built for the pressure of live news production 鈥� designed for speed, flexibility, and ease of use.听听

TouchDrive control panels, combined with 颁补谤产辞苍颈迟别鈥檚 intuitive software UI, deliver a production experience that empowers operators at every level. Quick-touch actions to trigger macros and transitions, highly customizable workflows, real-time responsiveness, and a clean interface design help eliminate guesswork, reduce errors, and boost operator confidence.听听

91快活林鈥檚 Carbonite series of production switchers offers powerful, flexible, and scalable solutions tailored to the diverse demands of modern live production environments. Whether you鈥檙e working in a compact studio or a large-scale control room, there鈥檚 a Carbonite model engineered to meet your needs without compromise.听

• Carbonite Ultra is the flagship mid-sized production switcher built with versatility in mind. Compact yet feature-rich, it supports up to 3 M/Es, 4 MiniMEs, and multiple DVEs, keyers, and format conversion paths, making it ideal for a wide range of production scenarios. It鈥檚 a reliable workhorse for broadcasters looking for high performance in a cost-effective form.听
• • Ideal for mid to large-size stations managing broadcast + digital.听
  • Flexible licensing model lets you scale features as needed.听
  • Simultaneously outputs for traditional and vertical video platforms.听
  • Delivers high-end production value without needing extra hardware.
• Carbonite Ultra 60 elevates the capabilities of the Ultra series by offering increased I/O capacity鈥攗p to 60 inputs and 25 outputs. Designed for more demanding productions, it鈥檚 a perfect fit for larger studios or multi-studio environments that need greater connectivity and future scalability.听
  • Built to handle complex, high-volume productions.听
  • Full feature set with maximum ME layers, MiniMEs, keyers, and more.听
  • Scales to the demands of regional or national broadcasters.听
  • Engineered for speed, reliability, and redundancy at scale.

• Ultrix Carbonite combines the routing, audio mixing, and multi-viewing power of the Ultrix platform with the robust Carbonite switching engine. This hybrid system delivers an all-in-one production solution that minimizes rack space and cabling while maximizing workflow efficiency, making it particularly beneficial for facilities looking to modernize or consolidate their infrastructure.听
  • Hyperconverged production platform reduces complexity and equipment. 听
  • Scale quickly and economically with functionality expansion via software licenses.听
  • Hybrid SDI/IP workflow support gives you flexibility and optionality. 听
  • Ideal for centralizing multiple control rooms for shared infrastructure efficiency. 听

Whether you鈥檙e running a single-camera studio or coordinating a live, multi-studio newscast with AR graphics and digital outputs, there鈥檚 a Carbonite switcher built for your workflow. Each model shares the same intuitive control experience, powerful live production tools, and seamless integration with Ross infrastructure so you can grow without compromise.听

In a newsroom production environment, speed, reliability, and workflow integration are crucial. In this context, Carbonite Ultra often presents the best balance of features and value. Its native compatibility with Ross OverDrive automation, streamlined control panel options, and ample M/E resources make it ideal for managing dynamic, fast-paced newscasts where operational simplicity and technical reliability are essential. Additionally, its compact footprint suits smaller control rooms, while still offering the performance needed for complex graphics and multi-camera setups.听

However, for larger newsroom operations with multiple incoming feeds, remote contributions, or integrated master control, the Carbonite Ultra 60 or Ultrix Carbonite may be more appropriate.

These models offer enhanced flexibility and I/O scalability, enabling more robust routing and signal management without requiring separate infrastructure.听

Carbonite isn鈥檛 just a switcher. It鈥檚 a newsroom production platform designed for the realities of live, multiplatform broadcasting. It helps your team:听

• Automate complex tasks with one-touch precision听
• Deliver consistent, branded visuals across every segment听
• Publish to linear, social, and digital channels simultaneously听
• Create virtual sets and multiscreen visuals with ease听
• Grow capabilities without changing gear听
• Reduce errors and stay on air鈥攅ven when things change fast听

Modern demands need modern tools. With Carbonite, your team moves faster, works smarter, and produces better content day after day.听

Contact our team听for assistance in finding the ideal Carbonite switcher for your needs.听听

The modern news studio operates in an environment that demands speed, precision, and adaptability. As audiences consume news across a range of channels 鈥� linear, online, and social media 鈥� producers must deliver consistent, high-quality content tailored to each channel. Achieving this level of sophistication requires more than just skill; it demands the right technology and workflows to simplify complex operations and minimize the risk of errors.

Despite the enormous changes in distribution, the core workflows of many production switchers have remained essentially unchanged. These legacy systems still rely heavily on manual effort, require racks of external gear, and leave little room for adaptability in fast-paced environments.

Newsrooms now face the challenge of delivering more content to more platforms faster than ever before. To succeed, they need modern production solutions that do more than switch 鈥� they need tools that reduce complexity and provide flexible, intuitive control.

This article explores the modern capabilities newsrooms should expect in their production switchers 鈥� features that allow teams to work smarter, deliver cleaner shows, and meet today鈥檚 high-performance expectations that audiences demand.

In a typical control room, Technical Directors must juggle multiple live feeds and pre-recorded video segments, all while layering graphics, feeding onset monitors, controlling external devices, and more. Without a cohesive system, this complexity can lead to delays and errors. A modern production switcher can serve as a centralized hub, integrating all video and graphic inputs into a single interface.

Tip: Use MiniMEs and flexible compositing to create submixes and manage feeds. Monitor with built-in multiviewers and drive content from a single, intuitive interface.

Time-sensitive productions often leave little room for error. Pre-programming tasks in modern switchers streamline routine tasks, including frame-accurate transitions, quickly recalling multi-layered effects, and triggering connected devices.

A control room that pre-programs tasks to deliver real-time election results can transition smoothly between live feeds, graphic overlays, and expert analysis, ensuring consistent quality and pacing.

Tip: Build Custom Control macros to simplify repetitive tasks, such as transitioning from a weather forecast to a live traffic update. With the pre-programmed tasks, you can then trigger sequences step-by-step with accuracy during live production.

News audiences expect updates that are not only timely but also visually engaging. Production switchers with built-in chroma key tools that integrate with graphics engines and real-time data simplify the process of adding live updates, such as election tallies, stock prices, or weather forecasts.

Tip: Pre-configure templates for recurring data-driven segments. For example, a weather report can use a dynamic graphic overlay that updates automatically as data is fed into the system. During election night coverage, your production team can use a switcher to overlay live vote counts, seamlessly integrating with real-time data sources while maintaining a polished, branded aesthetic.

Producing content for TV is no longer enough; modern news studios must create versions optimized for social media and streaming platforms. Production switchers with simultaneous output capabilities enable teams to produce platform-specific content without duplicating efforts.

Tip: Use features like output rotation to deliver vertical video for social media while maintaining traditional horizontal formats for TV broadcasts. A breaking news clip can then be output simultaneously in a widescreen format for TV and a vertical format for social media, ensuring your newsroom鈥檚 content reaches audiences on their preferred platforms.

Maintaining a consistent on-air look reinforces your brand identity and maintains viewer trust. Production switchers offer customizable sequences to support more complex show opens, multi-step transitions, and long-running features, such as sponsored segments, making it easier to apply your newsroom鈥檚 visual style consistently across all segments.

Tip: Develop a library of sequences for common segments, such as weather reports, sports updates, or breaking news alerts. This allows operators to deploy branded visuals quickly and without manual adjustments. For example, a morning news show can maintain a unified aesthetic by using pre-programmed sequences and graphic templates, ensuring seamless visual continuity even as content shifts between live and pre-recorded elements.

News studios vary widely in size and scope, but they all face resource constraints, whether in staffing or budget. Production switchers that can scale through free software updates allow teams to adapt their workflows based on available resources.

Tip: Software-licensed features allow you to expand without adding or replacing equipment. Upgrade features like additional MEs or multiviewers through software keys as your needs evolve.

In high-pressure studio environments, production switchers must offer more than just technical capability. They need to empower Technical Directors to move quickly and with precision. Familiar user interfaces and customizable control panels reduce complexity, enabling operators to stay focused and responsive throughout a live broadcast.

Tip: Look for a production switcher that offers real-time responsiveness and customizable controls. An intuitive UI and a well-organized control panel can streamline repetitive actions, prevent errors under pressure, and ultimately elevate the performance of your production team.

Even the best-laid plans can be disrupted by breaking news or technical challenges. A production switcher鈥檚 ability to make real-time adjustments is invaluable in maintaining a polished broadcast under dynamic conditions.

Tip: Train operators to use features like hot-swappable inputs and live audio mixing so they can adapt quickly to unexpected changes. For example, if a reporter鈥檚 audio feed suddenly cuts out, the switcher operator can immediately lower the reporter鈥檚 mic and switch to a secondary source, maintaining professionalism on-air.

Multiplatform newscasting is complex, but it doesn鈥檛 have to be overwhelming. By leveraging modern production switcher technology, news studios can simplify their workflows, program routine tasks, and deliver consistent, high-quality content across all platforms. The key is to combine strategic planning with the right tools, ensuring that your team can adapt to the fast-paced demands of modern journalism.

As some outdated graphics systems approach the end of their viable lifespan and/or require costly maintenance contracts to access full support, the broadcasters who own them are facing increased operational risk. Not every computer operating system (OS) will work with these legacy systems. And because they are often incompatible with modern software applications and digital plugins, these systems are particularly prone to errors, slow start-up times, driver skips, data loss, playback lags, and growing security vulnerabilities that can jeopardize system integrity.听

Limited OS compatibility and escalating support costs can lead to technical failures, delays in live production, and long-term reliability concerns, especially for broadcasters who operate in mission-critical environments. While the expense and hassle of upgrading from your legacy graphics system are certainly nothing to sneeze at, you must consider the added value and exceptional return on investment (ROI) that dependable, state-of-the-art video production and broadcast graphics infrastructure can provide.

Beyond technical problems caused by outdated technology, broadcasters are abandoning legacy systems due to their often-complex workflows and inefficient pricing structures. Some manufacturers limit customer choice by offering only subscription-based pricing models, increasing operational expenditures (OpEx) without the flexibility to choose what works best for their business.

Many broadcasters using outdated graphics solutions are facing product end-of-life, limited support, and forced subscription-based models that may not align with their budgets or operational needs. These challenges make it difficult for broadcasters to maintain seamless workflows while ensuring high-quality, real-time graphics.

But the impact goes beyond technology and cost. Outdated systems often burden operators with clunky interfaces, inefficient processes, and frequent workarounds that drain time and energy. By upgrading to a new graphics system, operators benefit from streamlined interfaces, faster responsiveness, and smarter workflows that reduce frustration and enhance day-to-day productivity.

Beyond asking themselves if they can afford to purchase and implement a new graphics system, wise broadcasters will ask themselves if they can afford not to.

In addition to concerns over cost and long-term viability, one of the primary reasons that broadcasters hesitate before abandoning their outdated graphics system is the fear of a complicated and disruptive migration. They are looking for a next-generation graphics platform that enables smooth migration from existing systems, preserving workflow continuity while improving operational adaptability.

To avoid disruptions during the migration process, it’s essential to engage in thorough planning with an emphasis on flexibility, diversification, and research. A good equipment manufacturer and service provider like 91快活林 will provide critical assistance and support in all these areas to help you transition from an outdated system smoothly.

By adopting a solution with real-time data integration, templated workflows, and a flexible cost structure, broadcasters can maintain creative freedom while reducing operational uncertainty. By partnering with the right graphics system provider, you can ensure a smooth and seamless migration process.

Here are just a few methods that you can use to limit or avoid workflow disruptions when transitioning to a new graphics system:

Parallel migration entails running outdated and modern systems simultaneously throughout the transition period. Because your old system remains operational as you train staff, you always have a “plan B’ to fall back upon to minimize disruption and downtime.

91快活林’s graphics systems provide native compatibility with newsroom workflows, real-time rendering, and a scalable, future-proof architecture. Unlike older and possibly outdated systems that are being phased out or locked into subscription-only pricing models, Ross offers broadcasters complete control over their graphics infrastructure while delivering premium, data-driven visuals at speed.

A comprehensive and versatile 2D and 3D graphics platform, 91快活林’s XPression real-time motion graphics engine allows you to build striking visuals and animations with ease.听In fact, it is the most powerful real-time motion graphics system on the market today. Whether you need graphics for a leading news story, sports coverage, or the daily weather report, XPression delivers eye-catching and functional results. To streamline workflows鈥攅ven in high-pressure environments鈥擷Pression supports real-time graphics compositing across a broad range of live video formats, making it easy to integrate visuals on the fly. XPression empowers you to create graphics for a wide range of purposes while simultaneously reinforcing your core brand image.听

The PGA TOUR recently turned to 91快活林 to revitalize its 165,000-square-foot facility in Ponte Vedra Beach, Florida, and a migration to the versatile XPression system was central to this revitalization. As the official Ross PGA TOUR case study states,

The heart of 91快活林鈥檚 graphics suite, XPression, allows broadcasters to navigate integration and implementation with ease. Contact a company representative today for more information about how Ross can help you transition to a next-generation graphics system without disrupting your operational workflow.听

No matter what line of business you happen to be in, a smooth and uninterrupted workflow is essential to success. Broadcast teams invest significant time and resources into streamlining their production processes and ensuring consistent day-to-day operations. However, your workflow chain will only be as efficient and effective as its weakest link. And in the broadcast industry, technical issues can disrupt workflow in any number of areas.

For example, are you considering abandoning your outdated broadcast graphics system? While many long-standing systems have delivered solid and reliable video production and television broadcast graphics for decades, users of these solutions are increasingly experiencing compatibility and capability issues.

Many broadcasters using outdated graphics solutions are facing a costly double whammy of product end-of-life and limited customer support. In short, these systems may no longer align with broadcasters鈥� organizational goals or operational workflows. As they age, outdated systems often experience hardware component wear and damage, which can lead to unexpected shutdowns and other technical failures. These failures can cause delays in live production and raise long-term reliability concerns.

Not every computer operating system (OS) will work with these systems. And because they are often incompatible with modern software platforms and digital devices, these systems are particularly prone to errors, slow start-up times, driver skips, data loss, playback lags, and general delivery glitches.

In many cases, these problems will result in a lack of quality content delivery that will be obvious to even the most oblivious of television viewers. At the very least, the constant troubleshooting and quick fixes that outdated graphics systems tend to require can cause ceaseless trials and tribulations for your production and broadcast teams. The challenges that these systems present make it extraordinarily difficult for broadcasters to maintain seamless workflows while ensuring high-quality, real-time graphics.

No broadcast organization wants to settle for an outdated graphics system that no longer meets the demands of their viewers, their team members, and the industry as a whole. However, the sheer technical difficulties and human resource challenges of migrating to a new graphics system can prevent broadcasters from leveling up, even when they know full well that a change is essential.

It can be particularly painful to replace an outdated graphics system, but to efficiently manage the migration to new production models, it is necessary to approach the business in a different way.

To overcome broadcaster fears of a messy migration process that is plagued by downtime, there are four essential keys to consider: planning, flexibility, diversification, and research. A good equipment manufacturer will provide critical assistance and support in all these areas to facilitate a smooth migration from an outdated system or any other graphics platform/equipment that is no longer meeting your wants and needs.

91快活林, for example, makes highly functional and user-friendly graphics systems that can meet the demands of any video production or broadcast organization. Much more than a manufacturer, Ross guides its customers through every stage of the equipment selection process with a seamless transition in mind. Then, it leads those customers through a migration process with little to no workflow disruption or operational downtime.

With the right equipment and support, you can dramatically transform the operational flexibility and overall quality of your on-screen graphics while simultaneously preserving workflow continuity. By adopting a graphics solution with templated workflows, real-time data integration, and a flexible cost structure, broadcasters can maintain creative freedom while reducing operational uncertainty.听

Minimize or completely eliminate workflow disruptions during the migration from your outdated graphics system to 91快活林’s cutting-edge XPression real-time motion graphics system. This often involves a phased rollout of new graphics system capabilities and/or a parallel migration approach that involves running your outdated and modern systems at the same time.听

Seamless integration during migration is best supported through broadcast-specific protocols such as MOS and CII. These standards allow graphics systems to connect reliably with newsroom computer systems, automation platforms, and editorial tools, minimizing disruptions and maintaining workflow continuity.

Purchasing models in the broadcast industry have evolved, with some providers offering only subscription-based (OpEx) options, while others still support capital expenditure (CapEx) models. The most important factor is having the freedom to choose the approach that aligns with your financial strategy. Whether you prefer the predictability of monthly costs or the long-term value of outright ownership, partnering with a vendor that supports both models ensures your investment works for your unique needs, now and in the future.

There are countless reasons to upgrade from your worn-out video production and broadcast graphics system. With the right equipment, support, and planning, you can migrate to a next-generation graphics system with minimal disruption and a smoother, more manageable experience. By heeding the basic advice and following the general guidelines above, broadcasters can level up their graphics game smoothly and seamlessly.