New Production Units for the Chamber of Commerce of Helsinki

The Helsinki Region Chamber of Commerce renewed its production system based on NDI video transmission and the Dante audio network. The solution enables centralized control of all spaces and makes hybrid events even more flexible and higher in quality.

About the Client

The Helsinki Region Chamber of Commerce offers a wide range of training sessions and events every year, bringing together experts and business leaders from various fields. A large share of the events are conducted in hybrid format, which enables participation both on-site and remotely.

Client’s Need

The renovation of the premises provided an opportunity to update the production system as well. The goal was to create a centrally controlled setup that would serve both small in-person events and large-scale hybrid productions equally. A high-quality remote experience was to be ensured through multiple camera angles, ceiling microphones that capture audience sounds, and adjustable lighting.

“When designing our production system, we aimed to enable as many types of productions as possible. Our goal is to provide the highest-quality experience for remote participants,” explains Arja Kuitunen, Producer at the Helsinki Region Chamber of Commerce.

The Solution

Reliable and great quality cameras and converters were chosen for the setup, but the true core of the system lies in NDI video transmission and the Dante audio network. These technologies allow the control room to manage all event spaces flexibly and respond quickly to changes.

“NDI and Dante are an excellent fit for us. Thanks to them, we can route signals to any room and react to changes effortlessly,” Kuitunen explains.

As the four training spaces include numerous video sources and client monitors, an NDI matrix was added to the system to facilitate signal routing. Although the matrix is software-based, the integrated control panels make operation intuitive in each room.

“Preparing productions using NDI is extremely convenient for us. The equipment starts up at the press of a button, and remote control is possible without needing to visit the event rooms in person,” says Kuitunen.

PTZ cameras are used in the rooms so that the entire production can be managed from a single control room by one person. An intercom connection ensures smooth communication between the control room and the presenters. Each room has its own workstation equipped with a video mixer, camera controller, and audio mixer. When needed, thanks to the matrix setup, control points can be distributed, and spaces can be combined into larger entities.

The Complete Solution

The project was carried out in cooperation between Mediatrade, the AV supplier, and the network supplier. Thanks to careful planning, potential pitfalls were avoided in advance, and the deployment process went smoothly. After training, system users were able to very quickly start working independently.

“Collaboration with Mediatrade was smooth and professional. Their experts are easy to reach and respond quickly to any change requests,” summarizes Arja Kuitunen.