THE REQUEST FOR PROPOSAL (RFP)



Two broadcast companies (NBC and FOX Networks) submitted a Request for Quote within one week of each other. The similarities were weird considering the probability of rival companies sharing operating environments. In the broadcast industry though, it's not unusual for IT departments to be faced with similar matrix switching requirements.

Each firm submited an RFQ with basic functioning essentials equivelent to a 1:1 switching ratio. Fundamental operation of the matrix switch system included a number of switched computers (source devices) with nearly equal number of user workstations. Such simplicity is traditional in the A/V matrix space so it wasn't that unusual a request.

The shock factor hit when quoted prices rose above the stratesphere. Audio/Video Matrix switches must support Balanced Audio and Video Bandwidth in the range of 350MHz. So high price tags are not uncommon for A/V equipment switches.

Computer video and audio signals are less demanding but the backplane of these matrix systems are designed to access many more computers by far fewer users. Taking the same approach to an A/V matrix is like trying to insert a square peg in a round hole.

System Integrators need to think outside the box to match or exceed the capacity of A/V switches. Superior switching solutions can be achieved with far less complexity, easier operation, greater integration and at prices that will keep buyers returning for more.
System Integrators need to think outside the box to
match and/or exceed the capacity of A/V switches.
These application didn't quit require out of the box thinking as much as a clearer understanding of the operating environment and a little creative thought. The fundamental operating environment involved four different segments of user applications with a fifth support group.

Segmenting switching environments offer extraodinary price benefits. In both cases, original price tags between $110,000 and $128,000 thousand dollars would plunge to less than $30,000 thousand.

Low price bidders don't come with the same value proposition a skilled system integrator offers. On the suface, Cadillac price tags may appear to stimulate buyers intrigue with fancy marketing terms supported by a battalion of vendor partnerships. Intentionally in designed, both can leave buyers with suspicous after taste.

By identifying the business model and the operating parameters of the users, Tron engineers designed two economical solutions customized to the individual characteristics of each customer that simplified the user experience.