KLCS Adds Aveco Master Control Automation

PBS member KLCS Los Angeles (DMA 2) is updating its infastructure by adding independent automation provider Aveco’s master control automation platform with integrated media asset management (MAM). 

The KLCS system marks the first deployment of BXF 5.0 with Aveco and Myers ProTrack and also includes the first Aveco Social Media Gateway deployed in the U.S., according to Aveco.

“KLCS initiated a 100% file-based workflow nearly 15 years ago,” said Alan Popkin, KLCS director of engineering and technical operations. “We have now embarked on a total rebuild of the station to leverage the new efficiencies available with the latest technologies available.

“After a thorough review of automation systems, including on-site demonstrations of all main systems, the staff uniformly preferred the Aveco system for a number of reasons,” Popkin added. “It enabled us to customize the automation to our existing workflow as opposed to having to change the workflow to match the automation requirements. It is versatile enough to accommodate any changes we’ll need to make in the future, as the media business is constantly evolving.”

The ability to customize the interfaces (GUIs) was also a key factor in selecting Aveco. Certain functions, such as setting AFD flags directly in the file — as opposed to sidecar files or database lookup — is important to the workflow at KLCS as they get a variety of formats from various program providers.

“Some of the advanced features, such as direct BXF 5.0 interface to the Myers ProTrack traffic system and the ability to use RSS to customize our outreach to our members based on schedule, provide both efficiencies and new opportunities to interact with our audience,” Popkin said. “From an engineering perspective, the wide range of devices Aveco will control and the ease of integrating them made the choice an obvious one to us.”

“Aveco is honored to work with KLCS and Alan Popkin, whose drive for technology innovation has been admired for decades,” said Jim O’Brien, president of Aveco. “Aveco has the industry’s most advanced master control and news production automation system, built from 25 years of constant dedication to innovation. It’s great to see our advanced software features recognized. We’re dedicated to helping move the industry forward and we appreciate the opportunity to help KLCS in serving its community.”