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Community TV outlines TriCaster rollout, VOD back‑room overhaul and live‑stream plans
Summary
Staff told the Nov. 13 Community TV Committee that the department is using a TriCaster unit for live events, is exploring a VOD/back‑room consolidation with Keycode Media, and may begin more live internet broadcasts of local high‑school sports. Staff also warned to preserve legacy production media when disposing of equipment.
At the Nov. 13 City of West Bend Community TV Committee meeting, staff reported on technical upgrades aimed at modernizing live broadcasts and cleaning up studio infrastructure.
John, a Community TV staff member, said the department has begun using a TriCaster live‑production unit for on‑site broadcasts and that the unit performed well during recent Veterans Day and high‑school broadcasts. Staff said they plan to test broadcasting a high‑school East‑West game live on the department’s YouTube page; if successful, the practice could be expanded in future seasons.
The committee heard that Keycode Media has reviewed the department’s back‑room systems and recommended a consolidation that could reduce four equipment towers to a single tower, improving space and efficiency. Staff said Keycode offered options to sell some older equipment such as Leitronics modules to other municipalities and recommended an e‑cycle for items without resale value.
Committee members cautioned against disposing of legacy production media and the last functioning playback equipment before digitizing or otherwise preserving historical recordings. "Be careful that you don't dump the last tape deck that plays that shelf full of tapes," one member warned, noting value in archival assets even when production quality is low.
Staff also reported vendor support: Tom Favre of Heco Media helped troubleshoot live broadcasts during technical issues, and staff described Heco as responsive and knowledgeable. No purchase decision was made at the meeting; staff said they will return with firm quotes and a timeline, with some work tentatively planned for January to start the overhaul.
If the revamp proceeds, staff said there may be opportunities to recoup funds through selective resale of equipment and to retire obsolete gear; staff emphasized preserving any items needed to access historical tapes until digitization is complete.
