ASTRA Automation Modules - Aveco

ASTRA Modules 

ASTRA Automation Modules 

Updated: January, 2004 

Introduction: 

AVECO Americas Incorporated 

468 Beacon Street 

Boston, MA 02115 

tel: (303) 588.5528 

www.aveco.com 

This document describes the hardware and software modules that make up AVECO's ASTRA 

automation system. Each ASTRA module's functionality can be tailor-fit to your needs by 

configuring that module's set-up parameters. ASTRA modules can be hot-swapped or hotadded 

without the need to take the on-air ASTRA system off-line. Therefore, ASTRA can be 

adjusted and expanded to meet your changing needs without interrupting on-air operation. 

Usually this can be done remotely by an AVECO engineer connected to your ASTRA system via 

internet or modem. 

ASTRA Automation has built in network transparency. This means that multiple ASTRA servers 

and user terminals work seamlessly together among many distant sites to provide automation to 

any Central Casting configuration. 

ASTRA, on-air since 1994, is a comprehensive automation system suitable for large, multiple 

channel, multiple location TV operations as well as for a single on-air channel with limited on-air 

time. AVECO built ASTRA on QNX, an operating system that has over 21 years of successful 

operation in real-time, mission-critical and life-critical applications like medical, military, 

telecommunications and space. QNX gives ASTRA reliability, flexibility, frame accuracy and 

network transparency. 

NOTE to PROCON Customers: This document also covers the modules that make up PROCON, 

AVECO’s broadcast assist automation system. PROCON is a building block of ASTRA. ASTRA is 

full TV automation while PROCON is a broadcast assist system that is focused on integrating 

videoserver to a manually run control room. Simply put: PROCON is ASTRA without master 

switcher control (but with GPI connection to the master switcher). 

ASTRA has an outstanding record of customer satisfaction. 

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Table of Contents 





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ASTRA Hardware ............................................................................................................................................................................3 

ASTRA Automation Server (rackmount, industrial PC).....................................................................................................3 

ASTRA Mirrored control server with Serial Switchover Unit..........................................................................................3 

ASTRA Dedicated Terminal.................................................................................................................................................4 

Rackmount Barcode Scanner...............................................................................................................................................4 

Third-Party Software ......................................................................................................................................................................5 

QNX Operating system .......................................................................................................................................................5 

SQL Database engine..........................................................................................................................................................5 

QNX Photon Graphic user interface..................................................................................................................................6 

ASTRA software ...............................................................................................................................................................................7 

Standard ASTRA Software Modules:......................................................................................................................................7 

One On-Air Playlist ..............................................................................................................................................................7 

Media Management.............................................................................................................................................................9 

Blocks.................................................................................................................................................................................... 11 

Preview of the Block.......................................................................................................................................................... 11 

Database............................................................................................................................................................................. 12 

Control of Videoserver ..................................................................................................................................................... 13 

Control of VTRs................................................................................................................................................................... 13 

Control of Master Switcher............................................................................................................................................... 14 

GPI........................................................................................................................................................................................ 14 

Audio mode......................................................................................................................................................................... 14 

Access rights - priorities and resource sharing.............................................................................................................. 14 

System Diagnostics............................................................................................................................................................. 15 

ASTRA Data Backup.......................................................................................................................................................... 15 

Remote access..................................................................................................................................................................... 15 

Optional ASTRA Software Modules:.................................................................................................................................... 15 

Additional TV channel control (add another on-air playlist)...................................................................................... 15 

ASTRA Client on MS Windows® Terminal..................................................................................................................... 16 

Traffic interface ................................................................................................................................................................. 16 

As-run log ............................................................................................................................................................................ 16 

Record scheduling .............................................................................................................................................................. 17 

Videoserver mirroring ....................................................................................................................................................... 17 

Fibre Channel support....................................................................................................................................................... 18 

Preview pictures ................................................................................................................................................................. 18 

Automatic Caching of Clips on Videoserver.................................................................................................................. 18 

Control of Cart Machine................................................................................................................................................... 19 

Control of Character Generator ..................................................................................................................................... 19 

Control of DVE.................................................................................................................................................................... 19 

Control of Still Store.......................................................................................................................................................... 19 

Control of VPS.................................................................................................................................................................... 20 

Control of Logo Inserter.................................................................................................................................................... 20 

Control of Scrambler......................................................................................................................................................... 20 

Control of Audio Processor............................................................................................................................................... 20 

Control of Routing Switcher.............................................................................................................................................. 20 

Subtitling.............................................................................................................................................................................. 21 

Tape backup....................................................................................................................................................................... 21 

Archiving.............................................................................................................................................................................. 22 

Tape management............................................................................................................................................................. 22 

Master clock interface....................................................................................................................................................... 22 

GPS time signal receiver .................................................................................................................................................. 22 

Page/e-mail/GSM messaging........................................................................................................................................ 23 

OCTOPUS Newsroom Integration Kit............................................................................................................................. 23 

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ASTRA HARDWARE 





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This section describes the hardware building blocks of ASTRA. ASTRA is built with a Client- 

Server architecture. The simplest ASTRA system requires only an ASTRA Automation Server 

that can be configured to run the Client as well. Larger ASTRA systems have a central PC 

Server and one or more discless PCs as Clients. ASTRA is scalable and can provide integrated 

automation solutions with multiple operators at one location or at several cooperating broadcast 

sites. With built-in network transparency, ASTRA Automation servers can be added and 

interconnected easily to expand the capabilities of the ASTRA Automation system. 

ASTRA Automation Server (rackmount, industrial PC) 

The central piece of hardware of ASTRA is a standard rackmount industrial PC that functions as 

the automation server and contains: 

• PC computer: industrial 19“ rack Axiom PC, Acquire processor card (PIII 533, 256 MB 

RAM), 2 x HD 8GB (run in either mirrored or back-up configurations), FDD 3.5“, 19“ 

Axiom keyboard, or better 

o QNX 4.25 or better as the operating system 

o Sybase Anywhere SQL server V 5.5 or better as the database platform 

• 2 Intelligent Line Control (ILC) cards for a total of 8 ports. A microprocessor placed on 

each ILC card manages RS422 traffic in the SONY, Odetics, Louth or Profile Native 

protocols to offload the host PC processor. Each ILC card contains 8 bit microprocessor 

and 16 kB RAM. To increase the number of devices controlled, up to 6 ILC cards can be 

installed on a single automation server for a total of 24 intelligent serial ports. 

• 2 MOXA RS422 and 2 MOXA RS232 cards for a total of 8 RS422 and 8 RS232 ports. 

(MOXA are general purpose serial cards.) The server has room for a total of 32 cards 

to provide a total of 128 serial ports. 

• 8 GPI inputs and 8 GPI outputs. 

• 1 VRP Genlock Card: The server uses this card for locking to the studio reference signal. 

The card also holds eight optoisolated GPI inputs and sixteen GPI relay outputs. 

• 2 Ethernet Network Cards. The Ethernet network cards connect the servers to the 

network of ASTRA terminals. If connection to an external planning system is required, 

another network card is installed for this purpose. 

The automaton server runs the ASTRA software modules and the character based interface used 

for system maintenance. 

ASTRA Mirrored control server with Serial Switchover Unit 

A mirrored control server is a fully equipped ASTRA Automation server plus a serial switchover 

unit that runs synchronously with the main automation server, frame by frame. When the 

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mirrored automation server detects a failure of the main automation server, the mirrored server 

takes control via the serial switchover unit. 

The serial change over unit provides a connection point for cabling to devices under automation 

control (videoservers, VTRs, etc.) from both the main automation server and the mirrored backup 

automation server. 

ASTRA Dedicated Terminal 

The ASTRA dedicated terminal is a diskless PC terminal at the user's workstation which runs the 

graphical user interface and the client applications. Each terminal includes: 

• Diskless PC, 1.2GHz, 128 RAM or better 

o QNX 4.25 or better as the operating system 

o QNX Photon windowing system 

o Sybase Anywhere SQL client V5.5 or better 

• PC keyboard and mouse. NOTE: Monitors are not provided by AVECO. 

• 1 Ethernet Network Card 

• ASTRA dedicated keyboard includes transport control buttons, jog wheel and other 

dedicated buttons as shown in the picture below. 

ASTRA Dedicated Keyboard: 

Rackmount Barcode Scanner 

For automatic reading of barcodes on tapes inserted to VTRs, AVECO can provide a rackmount 

barcode scanner. 

The barcode reader is 1U unit which can be mounted in the rack above the individual VTRs to 

identify tapes loaded into the VTRs by barcode. Supports all existing barcode standards. 

Requires barcode labels to be attached on the top side of the tapes. If barcode labels are 

present on a different location of the tape, other barcode configurations can be set-up. NOTE: 

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ASTRA can work with userbits to identify tapes and/or clips. 

THIRD-PARTY SOFTWARE 

This section describes the third party software on which ASTRA Automation runs. 




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QNX Operating system 

ASTRA Automation is built on the QNX real-time operating system. QNX, an established name in 

the embedded and real-time operating system industry, has been on the market for over 21 

years accumulating over 1 million downloads. QNX is a POSIX compliant multitasking multi-user 

operating system with strong real-time, mission-critical behavior. QNX gives reliability and 

frame-accuracy to ASTRA. Please see our web site www.aveco.com and follow the links to QNX 

in the content tab to get a full description of the benefits of QNX including detailed information 

about: Real-Time operating behavior, running on memory protected address spaces, hotswapping 

software modules, microkernel architecture and how these features mean robust and 

flexible operation. Please see www.qnx.com for more information about QNX. 

SQL Database engine 

ASTRA uses the Sybase SQL Anywhere as its database. Thanks to Sybase SQL's good 

connectivity, data can be fed to and accessed from ASTRA in almost any environment. Sybase 

SQL Anywhere is run on QNX. 

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QNX Photon Graphic user interface 

QNX Photon is used to generate a graphical user interface. ASTRA's interface has been 

designed to provide operators intuitive access to the strong control capabilities of ASTRA. QNX 

Photon provides reliable and seamless integration to the real-time core of the ASTRA system. 

Here is a screen shot of the ASTRA user interface showing the "windows" for: videoserver record, 

Time Code (TC) calculation, Block editing, and thumbnail viewing of videoserver content. 

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ASTRA SOFTWARE 





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This section describes ASTRA Automation’s software building blocks. The software modules that 

make up the core of ASTRA are defined under the Standard ASTRA Software Modules title 

below. Additional modules that expand ASTRA’s core functionality are described under 

Optional ASTRA Software Modules. With built-in network transparency, ASTRA Automation 

modules can be added and interconnected easily to expand the capabilities of the ASTRA 

Automation system. Since each software module runs on its own memory protected address 

space and ASTRA allows hot-swapping of software modules, any on-air ASTRA Automation 

system can be adjusted and expanded without interrupting the broadcast. 

Standard ASTRA Software Modules: 

The following functionality is provided with all ASTRA systems: 

One On-Air Playlist 

ASTRA's standard package includes one playlist that directs the automation of one on-air 

channel. The on-air playlist, or daily schedule, lists the events that will be broadcast. The events 

are related to their source, such as videoserver clips, tapes or live sources, the time of day when 

the event will be aired and the status of each event's readiness to go on-air. Much more 

information for each event can be shown on the playlist. Each user can define several views with 

different information of the playlist and toggle between views. 

The playlist shows the technological status of the particular event, allows for manual parking and 

starting of events and supports direct control of devices. 

The playlist supports multi-user access, where many users can work on the schedule 

simultaneously. This allows a group of operators to share the work required to develop and 

broadcast the playlist. For example, one operator can define transitions while another edits the 

schedule and another previews defined event sequences. 

Event Types 

The ASTRA playlist supports several types of events in addition to a Main Event: 

• Sub events: define layered sequences related to the Main Event. Any number of subevents, 

such as independent audio sources, keyers and CGs, can be grouped under a 

main event and broadcast: 

o simultaneously 

o with any required offset and duration 

o in series to each other 

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Sub-events are tied to a Main Event whose start and end triggers are decisive and 

override these setting for all related sub-events. 

• Alternate events: These are alternatives to the Main Event on the playlist. ASTRA will 

automatically broadcast the Main Event unless an operator replaces it with one of its 

Alternate Events. Alternate events provide recovery options in case of a programming 

supply failure. For example, a live football match could be delayed due to rain. 

Programming alternates may include a long interview with a coach, a shorter overview 

of the team's record and a quick highlight of last week's great play. Alternate events can 

have any number of sub-alternate events to make up a complete, layered alternate 

sequence. When necessary, an alternate event sequences can be started instantly to fill 

up any programming gap. 

• Skipped events: Events that remain on the playlist but will not be broadcast without 

activation by the operator. Support of skipped events gives the master control room 

flexibility to make last minute changes that can be undone easily since a skipped event's 

on-air readiness remains intact. Simply undo the skip command and the event is ready 

for broadcast. Unlike Alternate Events, Skipped Events are not tied to a Main Event on 

the playlist; when Skipped Events are broadcast, they do not replace any other event on 

the playlist. 

Event Duration 

The ASTRA playlist allows events to be defined in two different ways regarding their known or 

unknown duration: 

• Fixed duration: Events of exact duration, like pre-recorded clips, that have precisely 

defined IN and OUT frames. 

• Estimated duration: Events of estimated duration, such a live broadcasts, that may have 

an exact start point but their out point cannot be defined. 

Event triggering 

• Manual: Event playout is triggered by a manual command on a ASTRA terminal or on the 

Mastercontrol Switcher, or on the device. Manual triggering will always override the 

automation system. 

• Automatic: Event playout is fully automated under ASTRA and can be configured in three 

triggering options: 

o Follow time: an event's on-air time follows the previous event. If the start time or 

duration for one event is changed or events are added or deleted, the start time 

for all following events on the daily schedule are automatically recalculated and 

adjusted. 

o Exact time: events can be set as exact time events in cases where the on-air time 

for that event cannot vary, as in a regular news program. The on-air time for 

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fixed events does not change as editing changes are made to earlier events on 

the playlist. 

o An external trigger. Triggering can take place in response to any signal including 

a GPI ignal, a serial line message or a TCP/IP packet. 

• Semiautomatic: Used when a manual trigger is required inside of an otherwise fullyautomated 

sequence. For example, when only one event on the playlist does not have a 

fixed end time, say a live performance of the local symphony. ASTRA will run all events 

under full automation except the end of the symphony broadcast. For that trigger, the 

system will set itself in semi-automatic and prompt the operator for the moment of 

transition, the end of the symphony broadcast. Once the manual trigger is received, 

ASTRA will re-set itself to fully-automated and continue running through the playlist. 

Transitions 

Event transitions can be imported from the master switcher and other devices or selected within 

ASTRA, including: 

• Mixers 

• A B switchers 

• Digital video effect units 

Transition duration can be set as well. 

The system enables a broad variety of editing options, including deleting and inserting of each 

event or sequences of events. The event sequences can be prepared beforehand in blocks and 

stored for later use or easily selected and inserted in the chosen place in the daily schedule. 

The auto-insert function automatically pastes an event that is copied at a select location. Autoinsert 

speeds up development of playlist sequences. 

In case of an error, ASTRA either makes the correction automatically or prompts the operator to 

take action. 

ASTRA usually imports the daily schedule from the planning department through a network 

interface to the traffic system either in batch or in continuous mode. There is the capability 

within ASTRA to create the daily schedule directly on ASTRA and several templates have been 

developed already for this purpose. Custom templates can be developed to suit the needs of 

each customer. 

Media Management 

Media Management means the proper clip is in the proper place at the proper time. AVECO 

systems have intelligence and comprehensive database power to deliver complete management 

of all media operations. This includes knowing: where media content is, how to find it, how to 

capture it, where it needs to be, how to get it there, how to convert it and how to track each 

version. Tasks can be directed manually or automated to: 

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Catalogue media 

• ASTRA ensures there is unique identifier for every clip handled by the automation 

system. The ASTRA automation has the ability to generate unique identifiers upon 

requests with full respect to all limiting factors such as control protocol restrictions. 

• When a user wants to write an identifier manually, ASTRA will check to make sure the 

identifier is unique. 

Find media 

• Any metadata category or combination of metadata categories can be used to search 

for clips on devices connected to the ASTRA automation system. ASTRA automation 

system can span several locations and this searching capability includes searches from 

any ASTRA user station of any device anywhere as long as it is connected to the ASTRA 

system. 

• When a playlist is received or a new event is added to the playlist, AVECO automation 

looks for the corresponding content. The system will look in all media storage devices it 

controls, including devices in other cooperating facilities with ASTRA automation. 

• Operators are notified of missing media that cannot be located. To help, AVECO 

automation keeps a historical record of all clips handled by the system. When the 

playlist calls for a clip that has been seen by automation system before, but not currently 

available to the system, AVECO automation will notify the operator of the clip's history 

and source. For example, if the clip's source was a tape, the automation system will 

notify the operator of the tape's ID and the clip's cueing position. 

Move media 

• ASTRA will transfer media to storage, production, low-resolution and playout devices. 

• Transport can be done over SDI, SDTI as well as over networks and multiplexed MPEG 

streams in accordance to STP, SMPTE or proprietary standards. 

• Complex routing sequences are handled internally. 

• Simultaneously transfer media to multiple devices, even devices in distant locations. 

Translate and transcode 

• When the devices have this capability, ASTRA will direct media conversion as needed 

between native, production, distribution and playout standards and compression ratios 

among devices it controls. 

• ASTRA keeps the media network transparent, like coordinating transcoding that allows 

media transfers between video servers from different manufactures. 

Synchronize media streams 

• ASTRA will coordinate multiple media streams during broadcast, like subtitling texts for 

movies or substituting material in simulcasting when there are licensing conflicts among 

parallel channels. 

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Purge 

• ASTRA can be programmed to delete material from playout servers after broadcast, 

after date of expiration, by detection of unused material or by other criteria. 

Minimize duplication 

• Avoid re-recording content. ASTRA helps you optimize use of your valuable videoserver 

space. For example, there is no need to duplicate sections of a master clip when defining 

sub-clips. The database keeps track of sub-clips by marking IN and OUT points on the 

master clip. The media management module insures that the sub-clip plays out frameaccurately 

during broadcast. This reduces storage and media network bandwidth 

requirements reducing the cost of infrastructure investments. 

Store 

• Archive content. ASTRA can facilitate working with tape libraries by supporting user bit 

recognition or bar code scanning at the VTR and label printing for tape ID. We also 

automate control of complex robotic archives and SAN systems. 

Manage videoserver disk space 

• The station can create kill lists and delete old media from the videoserver quickly and 

easily. For example, ASTRA systems can delete clips based on last run date or expiration 

date, or any other criteria based on metadata categories. The system can also read in 

lists from programming systems, for example reading a "Promo Kill List" from traffic for 

purposes of deleting daily promos. Importing media management requests directly from 

other systems reduces data entry and errors. 

Given ASTRA's network transparency, ASTRA automation servers will seamlessly coordinate 

media management among interconnected ASTRA sites. This means that Central Casting 

functionality is native to ASTRA and its media management capabilities. 

Blocks 

Blocks are event schedules which exist independently of the playlist. Blocks have the same 

format as the playlist but Blocks are used for preparing sequences of events without directly 

working with the on-air playlist. ASTRA can support any number of Blocks. For example, 

separate Blocks can be created for self-promotion sequences or commercial breaks for each 

day of the week. Blocks can be inserted quickly into the daily schedule and aired. 

Preview of the Block 

ASTRA supports preview of event sequences and transitions. Preview mode allows users to 

preview a whole Block or selected clips within the Block. The preview module allows for jogging 

through the selected clips, adjusting IN and OUT points, editing the clip and previewing 

transitions between clips. Previewing gives stations added confidence during playout that the 

broadcast will take place as planned. 

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The preview module also allows for jogging through a selected clip, adjusting IN and OUT 

points, editing the clip and preview the transition between the selected and the next clip. 

Database 

The database is used for storing the daily schedules, blocks and the inventory and metadata of 

clips that are on the videoservers. The database is also used to store tape library information 

when that module is purchased. 

The database includes a long list of fields to store metadata for each clip that is relevant to the 

automation system: clip ID, on-air time, expiration date, clip type, usage counter, etc. A 

comprehensive list of the database fields defined in ASTRA is available upon request. There 

are two fields in the database that can be configured to each customer's requirements. Within 

the clip type and the two custom database fields, clip categories are also customer defined. For 

example, the clip type field can define categories like jingles, commercials, announcements, 

promotions or something completely different. There is a pass-through field for data that is not 

needed by ASTRA but is useful metadata for other systems that need to work with or refer to 

that clip. 

Sub-clips of a main clip can be defined in the database. Therefore, sub-clips do not require rerecording 

of the same material on the videoserver: ASTRA uses IN and OUT points defined in 

the database to define sub clips from a master clip. Stills can also be defined from frames of 

the master clip. 

ASTRA's database keeps track of each clip's original source, any copies, transcodings, etc. and 

their locations. 

All metadata descriptions can be used in searches, defining filters and as criteria in record and 

purge requests. 

The database can be very large, up to tens of thousands of records or more. 

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Control of Videoserver 





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Recording to videoserver 

This ASTRA module coordinates recording to the videoserver. Recording sources can be VTRs, 

live feeds, satellites and others. Independent control of VTR as a source allows searching and 

marking IN and OUT points of a clip. The clip can be described on a data entry form. The REC 

button starts recording to the videoserver. Descriptive information entered in the form is stored in 

the database during recording to the videoserver. 

The number of simultaneous recording procedures is limited only by the number of videoserver 

channels. 

The source signal is automatically routed to appropriate input channel of videoserver, if the 

router is controlled by ASTRA. 

Clip transfer to a videoserver is frame accurate. 

Playback from videoserver 

ASTRA supports single channel and dual channel playback from the videoserver. When the 

single channel playback is selected, videoserver clips are played back from one videoserver 

channel. If the dual channel alternative is selected, ASTRA changes the videoserver channels 

during the clip sequence playback. This allows for X transitions between clips, if the master 

switcher is connected. 

Control of VTRs 

ASTRA supports automated and manual control of VTRs. ASTRA has on-screen control panels 

and the ASTRA dedicated keyboard for manual control of all VTR operations. 

ASTRA supports basic transport control, tape recognition by barcode or user bits (at the tape's 

start, at the beginning of each clip or throughout the tape), and automatic parking of events. 

When airing from the particular VTR is finished, the tape is cued to the next parking position or 

rewound to the beginning of the tape and ejected. 

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The VTRs can be used as a source for recording clips to the videoserver. 




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Control of Master Switcher 

ASTRA supports X and Y transitions, mixes, wipes, pattern selection, transitions of any duration, 

pre-programming of four configured durations (cut, short, medium, long), and two keyers. ‘From 

–To’ mode of operation is supported. The exact operation depends upon the switcher 

capability. 

Logo insertion is supported, where there is the possibility to switch a logo on and off or select 

one of several alternative logo inputs. 

When there is a bypass router present ASTRA controls it so that the dedicated router outputs 

carry the same signal as on the master switcher program output (except keys). This can be used 

as a backup in case the master switcher should fail or be taken out of service for maintenance. 

GPI 

ASTRA can control of any auxiliary device via GPI relay. 

Audio mode 

ASTRA recognizes three audio modes: MONO, STEREO and DUAL. Each event carries it's audio 

mode description. ASTRA appropriately controls the output devices and puts the mode info in the 

VPS code. 

Access rights - priorities and resource sharing 

ASTRA provides customizable and flexible definitions of user rights and access. User access 

rights may be granted to a single playlist and even to an event sequence within the playlist. For 

example, the continuity operator may not be approved to change commercial breaks. These 

breaks in turn could only be edited by authorized person from the sales department who may 

have no right to edit the rest of the playlist. 

Access control rules also apply to videoserver content management. Some operators or some 

departments could see and manage some clips while kept from managing or seeing clips from 

other departments. And within departments, operators may have different rights; some may be 

granted only read access rights while clip purging is allowed only by selected experts. 

Utilizing the TV equipment such as videoserver I/Os, VTRs, even individual router outputs is 

dedicated to those users who qualify according to their access rights. 

Device control is allocated to users on a request basis and conflicts between simultaneous 

requests are handled by user priority or on a first-come first-served basis for users of the same 

priority level. Takeover control happens when user with lower priority is using the resource 

(videoserver output channel, for example) and a user with higher priority needs it. In ASTRA the 

takes should start using the device. If the device is in use, a dialog box will appear to the taker 

asking whether to take over the control from user X. After pressing ENETER control is taken over 

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System Diagnostics 

The automation has built-in diagnostics subsystems which check the status of the automation itself 

as well as the status of all the devices connected to ASTRA. ASTRA can serve as a central 

location for monitoring the status of all equipment under its control. 

When a problem or critical error is detected ASTRA solves the problem if it can or notifies the 

operator otherwise. ASTRA can automatically implement backup routines in case of failures, like 

switching to a backup router or re-routing playout from a mirrored videoserver and more. 

When a error is detected the status overview window will display the error announcing which 

device or which module has caused the problem, a short description of the problem and possible 

corrective action taken by ASTRA or to be taken by the operator. 

Examples of errors identified by the system diagnostic module could be: missing video 

reference, loss of communication with a device or error during data transfer. If the TV equipment 

allows for it, even messages such as "Power supply No. 2 of the Mixer1 out of order". 

ASTRA Data Backup 

This software module creates a backup copy of the ASTRA's software and the current status of 

the automation system's operation to the secondary hard drive installed in the ASTRA 

automation server. In case of primary hard disk failure the ASTRA system can then run from the 

secondary one. This utility can be invoked either manually or automatically. 

Remote access 

This module coordinates remote access to the ASTRA server by AVECO engineers. Remote 

internet access support and the dial-up support to the ASTRA server is installed for remote 

diagnostics and system adjustment by AVECO engineers who are off-site. 

Optional ASTRA Software Modules: 

The following software modules can be added to ASTRA’s core. With modular design, you only 

purchase the modules you need. 

Additional TV channel control (add another on-air playlist) 

This option allows for increasing the number of channels automated by an ASTRA system. There 

is no limit to the number of simultaneous TV channels that can be automated by an ASTRA 

system. As of December 2002, the largest ASTRA system on-air broadcasts 8 channels from two 

ASTRA Automation servers. 

One ASTRA Automation server can simultaneously broadcast up to 6 different on-air channels. 

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ASTRA Client on MS Windows® Terminal 




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Any PC running Microsoft Windows® 95 or higher can be configured as an ASTRA client. An 

ASTRA client hosted on a Microsoft Windows® computer can have the full power of ASTRA 

Automation except use of the ASTRA Dedicated Keyboard. Since Microsoft Windows® in not a 

real-time, mission critical operating system, AVECO does not recommend using an ASTRA client 

on a Microsoft Windows® host as the main terminal for broadcasting. 

ASTRA clients hosted on Microsoft Windows® computers use UNIX based X-Windows 

technology. There is no risk of viruses in the Microsoft Windows® LAN network contaminating 

the ASTRA server. Only character and graphic commands are exchanged between the Client on 

the Microsoft Windows® computer and the ASTRA server. No files are exchanged. No viruses 

that live in a Microsoft Windows® environment can take root in a QNX world. 

Just like on any ASTRA terminal, user or terminal rights can be assigned to suit the needs of each 

customer. For example, ASTRA clients on Microsoft Windows® computers in the 

commercial/traffic department can be set up to allow only viewing of the playlist or only 

modification of the commercial breaks of the playlist. Any workflow configuration can be set 

up. See ACCESS RIGHTS later in this document for more information. 

This module does not include any hardware. 

Traffic interface 

The Traffic Interface module maintains the transfer of schedules from the station scheduling 

system to ASTRA. 

This module provides file transfer based on ASCII files containing data in comma delimited 

format. Customized data interfaces are available upon request. The data exchange can be 

based not only on ASCII files and include XML, HTML, ODBC and other open standards. 

ASTRA has been integrated with a long list of traffic systems. Please see the compatibility list on 

our web site www.aveco.com for an updated list of traffic systems integrated and on-air with 

ASTRA. 

As-run log 

ASTRA generates the as-run log which lists every clip that has been broadcast including on-air 

time and duration for each event. Other information can be included as per each customer's 

request. Metadata for each clip can be passed through ASTRA from the traffic system to the 

as-run log for use by the billing system. 

The AS-RUN LOG module provides file transfer based on ASCII files containing data in comma 

delimited format. Customized data interfaces are available upon request. The data exchange 

can be based not only on ASCII files and include XML, HTML, ODBC and other open standards. 

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Record scheduling 

The record scheduling module stores and processes all the requests for recording from a variety 

of sources to one or multiple target devices. The record scheduler can be programmed with any 

number of routines that automatically repeat every day, every week, every month, etc. Besides 

programmed recording schedules, it is possible to manually insert and run a record request. The 

recording of the requested item is processed automatically or is triggered and/or stopped 

manually. Scheduling sequences accommodate everything from complex and changing jobs to 

simple and recurring tasks. For example, the live 5 o'clock news can be automatically recorded 

and set for re-broadcast at 7. A network feed from one time zone can be recorded and set for 

broadcast in a different time zone. Ingest can be triggered by time, video code or any other 

criteria to identify the correct media. Special requirements you have for media ingest can be 

configured into your AVECO automation system for automated control. 

The description of the item in the record schedule is stored as metadata in the ASTRA database. 

The expiration date for the clip is set automatically (expiration date = current date at time of 

recording + configured duration {the default is 36 hours}). 

The record scheduler can also process the recording of all or selected on-air events. 

Here is a screen shot of the RECORD SCHEDULER, a summary of the pre-programmed record 

sequences, and the detail of the record operations for the "Think twice" video clip: 

Videoserver mirroring 

This module coordinates mirrored playout from two videoservers. ASTRA delivers videoserver 

mirroring through a virtual videoserver driver that controls a couple of videoserver channels 

identically. One channel corresponds to the main videoserver and the other to the backup 

videoserver. This ensures that the playout proceeds exactly the same both on the main and on 

the backup videoserver. At the same time ASTRA controls the changeover unit or router which 

routes one of videoserver channels to the output. If a fault in the main videoserver is detected, 

ASTRA switches the backup videoserver's channel to the output. 

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Videoserver mirroring can be done in two configurations: 

1. Full Mirroring: The entire content of the main videoserver can be mirrored on a backup 

videoserver of equal capacity. 

2. Partial Mirroring: Here AVECO systems maintain a smaller videoserver as a backup to a 

larger capacity broadcast videoserver. Partial videoserver mirroring enables TV stations 

to reduce their investment in backup videoserver equipment while maintaining a high 

level of availability. 

Fibre Channel support 

The Fibre Channel transfer of clips between videoservers is supported. The contents of the 

remote videoserver can be browsed and the selected clips transferred to the local videoserver. 

Preview pictures 

Preview pictures (or thumbnails) are retrieved from the videoserver, if the videoserver supports 

this feature, and stored in the database. By default ASTRA uses the first frame in the clip as a 

thumbnail when the clip is recorded. An operator can change the thumbnail selection to a more 

appropriate frame if necessary. 

ASTRA users can browse through the thumbnails using the database browser. 

Automatic Caching of Clips on Videoserver 

This module automatically caches on the videoserver events of the playlist that are originally 

provided on tape. Automatic caching can be programmed based on customer specific criteria. 

Usually, automatic caching to the videoserver is reserved for events with a duration shorter than 

a set limit. ASTRA then plays out the cached event from the videoserver, not from the tape. 

Caching is implemented in the following way: 

• Events are tagged for caching. The caching tag is either received from the 

scheduling/traffic system that provides the playlist or ASTRA tags events as per customer 

specific criteria, say events from a particular device that do not exceed a maximum 

duration, while importing the playlist. 

• The videoserver's contents is checked during the import of the daily event schedule. If the 

videoserver's contents includes a clip with the same JOBID as has a clip contained in the 

daily event schedule, it is automatically replaced by the event saved on the videoserver 

(the most important modified data are RECID, in and out points, device type and device). 

The automatic substitution is not implemented if the two versions vary in their duration by 

more than the limit set by configuration. In such case the event is marked in the daily 

event schedule with a warning message. 

• Events designed for caching that can not be substituted automatically with their 

videoserver version are indicated in the daily event schedule by an icon. An error 

message explains why the substitution has not been completed (the adequate JOBID has 

not been found on the video-server, JOBID is not entered, more clips with the same 

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JOBID found on the video-server and the duration of the two events differs, etc.). 

• The operator's task is to either record the event to the videoserver or to cancel the 

caching operation. After the recording is successfully completed, the event is substituted 

with its "videoserver" version on the daily event schedule . The checks mentioned above 

are provided at all events of the set JOBID. 

• Caching and automatic substitution to the videoserver as a source for playout is also 

implemented within Blocks. 

• If a clip is deleted from the video-server, the event in the daily event schedule does not 

return into the original status (its "tape" version's RECID, in and out points are not known 

any more). However, the event is marked with a red exclamation mark indicating that 

the RECID has not been found on the videoserver. 

Control of Cart Machine 

ASTRA supports cart machine control allowing the cart machine to be used for playout and for 

caching to the videoserver. 

Cart machine control is based on direct control of each component of the cart machine 

independently: robotic arm, VTRs, switcher and others. This permits accurate and flexible 

configuration of the control sequences. 

Control of Character Generator 

There are two features supported by ASTRA. These features can be used if the installed 

character generator allows for them: 

• Import of text into the predefined template and the text page creation. 

• Selecting the text page on the generator's output. 

Control of DVE 

ASTRA can recall transitions stored in the DVE. The signals are handled in this way: 

• The proper signals are routed to the DVE inputs, i.e. the source which is currently on air, 

the next source and others. 

• The DVE outputs the same signal as the mixer. 

• The DVE output is cut on air. 

• The transition on the DVE is recalled. 

When the transition on the DVE is over, the new source signal which is the same as the DVE 

output is cut on-air on the mixer. 

Control of Still Store 

The still store control is supported in terms of selecting the still on the device's output. The 

videoserver can be also used as the still store and the stills and clips can be freely mixed on the 

videoserver's output. 

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Control of VPS 

The VPS generator control is supported. All the information fields within the VPS code can be 

independently changed, from date and time up to the parental guidance flag and the audio 

mode. 

Control of Logo Inserter 

ASTRA supports control of inserting/removal of the logo as well as selection of the logo if 

supported by the device used. 

Control of Scrambler 

The scrambler control module allows for controlling parameters of conditional access devices 

individually for each event on the playlist. Scrambler control capabilities depend on the 

device's ability to be controlled and typically include scrambled-clear mode, parental guidance 

level, tiers level and others. 

Control of Audio Processor 

The audio processor control allows for controlling various parameters of audio programming 

devices individually for each event on the playlist. 

Control of Routing Switcher 

The control of the routing switcher is supported including automatic routing of the signals to 

preview monitors. ASTRA's control over the router is typically invisible to the operator who 

simply selects the device and task to be performed and ASTRA configures the router 

automatically as required. For example, when recording clips to a videoserver the operator 

selects the proper source and ASTRA will route the signal to the videoserver input. 

It is also possible to control the routing switcher manually using the matrix control panel 

application. The two screen shots shown below represent two different representation of the 

direct control interface to routers. The image on the left shows a graphical matrix control of a 

16x16 router. The image on the right shows control matrix for a 64x64 router. 

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The ASTRA routing switcher control manages only the outputs dedicated to devices controlled by 

ASTRA yet it can co-exist with other routing switcher controllers, if this is supported by the 

routing switcher itself. 

Subtitling 

ASTRA has built-in multilingual subtitling support. ASTRA accepts subtitling files in the EBU 

format. The subtitling can be in-vision or teletext. The subtitle files can be attached to the events 

in the daily schedule and played back along with the main event. 

Tape backup 

ASTRA provides a backup module to direct recording to tape of important media on the 

videoserver in the chosen format for broadcast in case of an emergency. Blocks, particular 

commercial breaks or individual clips can be recorded on tape. The tape can be then used in the 

continuity room for commercial break playout or as the backup media. 

The TAPE BACKUP modules works like this: 

1. Once all necessary commercials have been recorded onto the videoserver 

2. And the playlist of commercials are also in ASTRA (input or via traffic interface) 

3. And a blank tape is loaded into a VTR under ASTRA control 

4. ASTRA can create a back-up tape automatically. The format of this back-up tape 

has been specialized for customers in different ways. For example, ASTRA will run 

the tape, will start recording on a VTR (frame accurately), play out color bars and 

kilohertz for one minute, then black and silence, then first commercial break 

(including leading jingle, commercials, trailing jingle). The next commercial break 

will then start recording on the next whole minute with the appropriate amount of 

black inserted. And so on to the next commercial break etc. up to the trailing ten 

seconds of black. 

When ASTRA is used to record a backup tape with fully assembled sequences of 

commercials, ASTRA can add value: The defined rules, like max/min number of 

black frames between the commercials, color bars and black, are optional. There 

can be countdown clips before each leading jingles. There are many options. 

Several customers chose PROCON (the building block of ASTRA) because their 

number one selection criteria was capability to create recorded tapes. For 

example SWR, Germany uses PROCON to prepare backup tapes and then they 

play out commercial breaks from the tape. What is interesting is this: PROCON 

must deliver a 5 minute completely assembled commercial break consistently to the 

same number of frames. SWR's planning system plans the breaks with a target 

duration of 5 minutes of commercials in it. PROCON imports the commercial 

playlists. During import PROCON inserts the true durations of the individual 

commercial clips. The real durations may differ from the planned ones. At the end 

it may show that the break with planned duration of 5 minutes has only 4'59". 

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PROCON recalculates the particular break in a way that it adjusts the number of 

black frames between the commercial clips in the break (within predefined 

margins, say 3 frames to 7 frames) so that the final duration is frame accurately 5 

minutes. German precision by Czech company. 

In all ASTRA/PROCON configurations for recording to Tape, when the tape is 

finished the tape content, time codes, etc. are printed out so that operators know 

which commercial break is on which tape. The print-out configuration is adaptable 

too. 

Archiving 

The clips recorded on the videoserver can be archived on data cartridges or videotapes. ASTRA 

supports control of manually operated data cartridge drives as well as robotic archives. 

When the clip is recorded on the videoserver it can be assigned for automatic archiving. Any 

clip existing on the videoservers can be archived on manual request. 

Various scenarios are available for automatic archiving. When a clip on the daily schedule or in 

a Block is known to be located on the archive tape, ASTRA restores it from the robotic archive or 

prompts the operator to manually load the proper data cartridge into the VTR. 

Tape management 

The tape logging station allows for entering the metadata, marking IN and OUT points by direct 

VTR control and storing the data in the system database. 

Barcode labels can be printed if the barcode printer is attached to ASTRA. The tapes in the 

cart machine are then recognized by their barcode. The tapes loaded into the stand alone VTRs 

should then be recognized by manual or automatic barcode scan. 

ASTRA also supports recognition by userbits at the tape start, to introduce every clip or 

continuously on the tape. 

ASTRA supports multi-segment tapes. 

Master clock interface 

This module synchronizes the internal ASTRA clock to the station master clock, to the DCF receiver 

or to the GPS receiver. 

GPS time signal receiver 

This module integrates a GPS receiver attached to the ASTRA server and will set the internal 

ASTRA clock. 

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Page/e-mail/GSM messaging 

This module is the expansion of the diagnostics subsystem, which sends a Pager, GSM, SMS, 

email or other message to the predefined set of phone numbers, e-mail addresses etc. when a 

critical error is announced by the diagnostic subsystem. 

When the error is solved, a message that the particular error has been addressed is sent to the 

receivers of the first message. Among the errors detected there is missing video reference, lack 

of communication with controlled devices, cue commands not accepted by videoservers and 

others (see SYSTEM DIAGNOSTICS above). 

OCTOPUS Newsroom Integration Kit 

OCTOPUS is a newsroom system developed by a sister company to AVECO. 

This module interconnects the data management (wires, story management, rundown 

management) part of OCTOPUS newsroom system with ASTRA automation and makes the 

automation an OCTOPUS automation subsystem: both parts become a seamless unit. 

This module is responsible for transferring the metadata between both subsystems, for 

transferring stories and rundowns, for real-time feedback about the actual on air status from 

automation to data management subsystem and for other necessary activities. 

AVECO has developed an integration kits to other third-party newsroom systems, including 

iNews from AVID. 

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ASTRA Automation Modules - Aveco

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