| Layer | Component | Function | |-------|-----------|----------| | | RAID array, SSD, or SAN | Stores compressed (e.g., DNxHD, ProRes, XDCAM) or uncompressed media. | | Control | Playout automation client | Receives as-run lists from automation (e.g., Harmonic, Imagine, Pixel Power). | | Output | Broadcast I/O card (SDI, SMPTE 2110) | Generates clean video outputs with embedded audio and timecode. |
The Ultimate Guide to Playout Servers: Powering the Future of Broadcasting playout servers
| Model | Description | Switchover Time | Best For | |-------|-------------|----------------|----------| | | Two identical servers run in sync. Second is in “shadow” mode. | <1 frame (automatic) | Live news, major network primetime | | N+1 Sparing | One spare server backs up multiple primaries. | 2–5 seconds (manual/auto) | Cable channels, local stations | | The Ultimate Guide to Playout Servers: Powering
For 1+1 failover, the system must maintain phase-accurate playback – both servers reading the same frame at the same time. | 2–5 seconds (manual/auto) | Cable channels, local
Playout servers employ two primary redundancy models: