AMV Boosts Mobile Workflow Efficiency with Matrox Extio 3

All Mobile Video (AMV), a leader in mobile production solutions, operates a fleet of production and transmission trucks, along with studios that serve a wide range of live events across New York, New Jersey, and beyond. From concerts to parades, AMV continuously seeks innovative ways to improve its operational efficiency while maintaining flexibility across a variety of live productions. Traditional KVM setups required extensive cabling and power, limiting mobility and adaptability. By integrating Extio 3 IP KVM extenders into its workflow, AMV significantly strengthened its ability to manage and control critical production equipment remotely.

Challenges and Requirements 

AMV’s mobile division, led by Director of Engineering Paul Butkiewicz, faced several challenges: 

Space and power constraints: Traditional KVM systems required substantial space and consumed significant power, making them difficult to integrate into production trucks.  

Flexibility and mobility: The team needed the ability to relocate workstations quickly in the event of technical failures or reconfigurations. 

Reliable remote access: Operators required real-time access to production computers and media management tools from multiple locations.

Upgrading Mobile Production Workflows with an IP-Based KVM

Joe LoGrasso, Managing Director at 2110 Solutions and consultant for the project, identified Extio 3 as the ideal IP KVM extender to integrate into AMV’s mobile setups. "Extio 3 provided the adaptability and performance AMV needed to modernize their mobile production workflows without overhauling their entire infrastructure," said Joe LoGrasso. Unlike traditional KVM systems that rely on direct point-to-point connections, Extio 3’s IP-based architecture enabled AMV to establish a dynamic and scalable workflow.

By deploying eight Extio 3 transmitters and eight receivers, AMV effectively: 

• Eliminated the need for dedicated KVM wiring by leveraging its existing network infrastructure. 
• Allowed remote access from any VLAN without the constraints of proprietary Layer 2/3 switching.
• Simplified setup with an intuitive plug-and-play approach, requiring minimal technical intervention.
• Ensured precise 4:2:2 chroma subsampling over Ethernet, a key requirement for AMV’s workflows.
• NRG redundant power supply units, available for integration, enable remote system reboots in a mobile production environment.

Implementation and Network Infrastructure 

AMV deployed Extio 3 in NYLA, one of its flagship mobile units, operating on a robust network setup: 

• 1 Gbps managed network: Handles standard production data. 
• 10 Gbps VLAN: Dedicated for high-speed media transfers.
• Dual firewalls: Ensure secure and reliable connectivity.
• 10 Gbps VLAN: Dedicated for high-speed media transfers.

The integration of Extio 3 significantly boosted AMV’s operational efficiency. Paul Butkiewicz highlighted four key benefits:

• Speed and efficiency – If a workstation encounters an issue, operators can be relocated within minutes by simply plugging into the network. 
• Flexibility – Operators can now access production computers from any connected location, enhancing workflow adaptability. 
• Ease of use – The intuitive interface allows various users to manage devices effortlessly, reducing downtime and ensuring smooth productions. 
• Reliable technical support – Matrox Video provided fast and genuine support when needed.

By integrating Extio 3, AMV has achieved operational improvements, with the flexibility of IP-based KVM technology providing clear advantages in mobile production environments. The ability to eliminate the need for extensive cabling has saved valuable space, making it easier to integrate into production trucks. Overall, the scalability and efficiency of the IP KVM setup have enhanced AMV’s ability to quickly adapt to changing environments and streamline its workflows, ensuring smoother productions and greater operational agility.