Fighting Illini Productions Control Room Upgrade
Hybrid-2110 Architecture for a Scalable, Future-Ready Production Workflow
Project Overview
The Fighting Illini Productions control room at the University of Illinois had reached its limits. Over time, a mix of legacy systems and patchwork upgrades led to inefficiencies, restricted workflows, and limited scalability.
TAB M Solutions was awarded the bid to rebuild the control room from the ground up — transforming it into a modern, hybrid-2110 production facility that brings flexibility, performance, and creative freedom to every game day.
The Challenge
Before TAB M’s involvement, the Fighting Illini Productions control room faced several key challenges:
- Fragmented legacy systems that limited workflow efficiency
- Outdated routing and cabling infrastructure
- Lack of scalability for new venues and sports coverage
- Complex operations that slowed down day-to-day production
The University needed a cohesive, scalable, and future-ready broadcast system capable of delivering professional-quality productions across multiple venues.
The Solution
TAB M Solutions proposed a forward-thinking hybrid-2110 architecture that redefined the project’s scope and set a new standard for collegiate broadcasting.
While the original RFP specified a traditional baseband system, TAB M identified opportunities for greater flexibility and long-term value by introducing a hybrid IP-based design.
The final solution included:
- Grass Valley IP cameras, graphics, and replay systems integrated with baseband routing for smooth operator transition.
- A Cisco spine switch to anchor all ST-2110 components and ensure seamless routing.
- Netgear auxiliary switching supporting Cobalt 2110 gateways and control networks.
- Wave Central RF camera systems for dynamic coverage across large venues.
- Custom PTZ goalpost cameras delivering one-of-a-kind game-day perspectives.
TAB M’s hybrid approach delivered the perfect balance between familiarity and innovation, helping the university evolve its production capabilities without sacrificing comfort or control.
The Process
Results & Impact
- Seamless hybrid workflow blending baseband reliability with IP scalability.
- Operator-friendly environment with minimal training curve.
- Expanded creative capabilities via custom PTZ and RF systems.
- Future-ready platform for campus-wide broadcast expansion.
The upgraded Fighting Illini Productions control room is now a future-ready, high-efficiency broadcast hub that combines the best of baseband and IP production.
What our clients have to say
TAB M has given us the foundation to grow this production program into any venue and meet any future production requirement.
