Broadcast production equipment

Tender description

The BBC is seeking a roster of non-exclusive, best value for money pan-BBC framework agreements for the supply of professional video acquisition equipment, lenses, storage cards, advanced camera battery systems, consumer cameras and record/replay equipment, including warranty, support and part exchange provision. The framework is divided into lots. Camera Lots 1, 2 and 3 are based on the European Broadcasting Union R118 Camera Tiers, found at: https://tech.ebu.ch/docs/r/r118.pdf which is a minimum criterion: Lot 1: System Cameras (UHD1 Tier 1 and 2, HD Tier 1EBU R118 Sections 2.4; 2.5 and 2.7); Lot 2: Field Cameras (UHD1 Tier 1 and 2, HD Tier 1 and 2 EBU R118 Sections 2.4; 2.5; 2.7 and 2.8); Lot 3: Specialist Cameras (Tier SP EBU R118 Section 2.6); Lot 4: Consumer and Non-Broadcast Cameras and Accessories; Lot 5: Professional Broadcast Lenses; Lot 6: Portable Storage Devices, Media Cards and Card Readers; Lot 7: File-based Record and Replay Equipment; Lot 8: Advanced Camera Battery Systems/Accessories. System cameras that are principally used in studios and outside broadcast applications. Current programming includes Sport events, continuing Studio based Drama, Journalism and Entertainment programmes. These cameras are placed on wheeled pedestal or robotic support systems allowing the camera to be moved smoothly around the studio as well as having the ability to crane up and down. In the News studio environment and some presentation areas these cameras are often remote controlled from the production gallery. System cameras do not have on-board recorders, and are usually cabled using fibre or triax, usually dependent on building connectivity back to the gallery or production control area where output is either transmitted live and/or recorded. This includes but not limited to CCU’s, MCU’s and other peripherals. Please note that UHD2 Tier system cameras will be treated as part of the Specialist Camera Lot 3 given that significant take-up of this resolution during the framework period is unlikely and careful management of process and workflow is necessary. Field cameras that are often used for single person operation and personal digital production across most BBC genres — usually but not exclusively for location shoots. These cameras are provided with either an integral fixed lens or will permit the use of changeable professional broadcast lenses and accessories suitable for a more experienced operator. These cameras will utilise solid state removable media, and may offer the capability to utilise readily available commodity storage cards. They will incorporate degrees of external camera control and will likely incorporate external connectivity. The BBC is conscious that this lot could contain significant numbers of cameras with potential to cause confusion. It is therefore likely that any call off for procurement against this lot will refer to specific camera types: — shoulder mount, — large handheld, — small handheld. Mirrorless/DSLR cameras that have been tested and approved by the BBC or deemed compliant with EBU R118 as suitable for broadcast use. Mirrorless/DSLR cameras for non-broadcast use will be bought through lot 4. This lot includes viewfinders for cameras defined under this lot. Specialist or special effects cameras and accessories including, but not limited to, very high frame rate cameras, minicams, macro cameras, very low/no light cameras, covert and other cameras which are used to capture action within very specific confines. These cameras will offer unique functionality and may not meet minimum EBU R118 defined HD requirements but represent the best that can be achieved with current technology. It is recognised that given the niche nature of some of these cameras, bidders do not have to be capable of supplying all types of cameras within this lot. Please note that UHD2 Tier system cameras will be treated as part of this specialist camera Lot 3 given that significant take-up of this resolution during the framework period is unlikely and careful management of process and workflow is necessary. Cameras which do not meet minimum EBU R118 defined HD requirements and are primarily targeted for consumer and non-broadcast use, but are used in the creative process often for recce, screen test, and where these cameras represent the best that can be achieved with current technologies. This includes a comprehensive range of consumer cameras, camcorders, interchangeable lenses, peripherals and supports, including the following products: — digital stills cameras (which may record video but do not meet EBU HD minimum required criterion), — consumer and non-broadcast digital camcorders which do not meet EBU HD minimum criterion, — associated accessories for the above: this includes, but is not limited to, camera specific cradles, cases, specific batteries, chargers, lenses, professional carry bags/straps, connecting cables and cleaning kits. The following categories are specifically excluded from the scope of this lot: Recording media for cameras and camcorders, including consumer storage CF and SD cards, USB sticks, pre-encrypted devices, hard disk drives (HDD’s), XDCAM or equivalent disks, LTO and all other professional video, digital, audio and data tape formats and all memory card readers associated with all such devices, and: dry cell batteries. Lenses for cameras in Lots 1 to 3, which can accept a variety of lenses with or without adaptors which are used for different applications, making the cameras more versatile (for example, wider zoom range and greater ability in low-light). Technologies required to store content acquired by the camera equipment on Lots 1 to 3. Card reading devices which enable the accessing of cards and devices used for acquisition via a laptop or other computer device. However, this excludes consumer storage CF and SD cards, USB sticks, pre-encrypted devices, hard disk drives (HDD’s), XDCAM and equivalent optical disk, LTO and all other professional recording and data tape formats and all memory card readers associated with all such devices. File-based digital non-linear recorders for use in the acquisition of combined video and audio content — including, but not limited, HDD, LTO, solid-state and other file-based record and replay devices, excluding video servers and production systems. These technologies will often, but not always, include a screen and controls for viewing and reviewing media captured. Comprehensive range of advanced camera battery systems, including batteries, chargers, belts, mounts, power supplies and accessories. It also includes other professional camera accessories and camera-mounted battery powered lights specific for acquisition.