TV distribution
 

Has anyone here distributed a TV commercial to a television station via MPEG2 on a data DVD?

My local station won't accept video this way. Are they just behind the times, or isn't this a common distribution method??

I've never seen a commercial station accept Mpeg2 as a broadcast copy. (Doesn't mean it doesn't happen, I've just never seen it) Most want BetaSP dubs, or DVCam. Some might take Mini DV (but I doubt it)

ALways find out the stations preferred format, and while you're at it, make sure you find out their pre-roll preferences. There can be a bit of difference there between stations.

I don't get it...

It seems like the station should be able to load the MPEG2 file onto their eithernet and and then just transfer it onto their server.

It seems so much easier than having to set up/cue up video tapes ~ and never a chance of tape wrinkles or dropouts.

And there wouldn't be any additional equipment needed.

Hi Robert,

The thing is that their servers might not be running MPEG2 IBP. Some stations will be running in DV format (which codec????), MPEG2 I-Frame, MJPEG, Uncompressed, HD etc etc. Therefore producing it to BETAcam or DV tape etc solves the problem. Unless of course you know what their video servers excepts. Some stations still run from tape deck...

Cheers,

Robert,
Cable companies that air from servers generally do their own compression to MPEG2. That's the case here in the LA area. Some cable providers will accept an .avi video file as a data file on CD or DVD media. The good news is that Beta SP masters may no longer be needed. HOWEVER: you must prepare the comercial/video file to proper digital specs (no setup, etc.).
It's always best to check the tech requirements of the company in your area.
Hope this helps.
Ken

thanks to all for your input ~ I'll check it out.