CBC/Radio-Canada Taps Arista Networks for Latest Broadcast Facility

CBC/Radio-Canada, Canada’s national public broadcaster, has chosen Arista Networks’ high performance switching infrastructure for its new “Maison de Radio-Canada” (MRC) in Montreal, a planned state-of-the-art facility that will be fully compliant with the SMPTE ST2110 suite of standards for professional media applications over managed IP networks.

The multi-year contract sets the stage for Arista Networks to provide CBC with high-performance IP Switching platforms, Arista EOS (Extensible Operating System) software features and advanced services that will make “Maison de Radio-Canada” among the most advanced IP broadcast facilities in the world.

“The relocation of CBC/Radio-Canada French Services headquarters in Montreal is one of the most ambitious projects in our industry,” said François Legrand, CBC’s Senior Director of Core Systems Engineering. “Arista’s dedication, vast experience, proven track record and in-depth understanding of the Media and Entertainment market are key to the success of this project.”

The combination of Arista EOS, CloudVision®, and Media Control Services provides the management, orchestration and telemetry applications required to configure, operate and monitor CBC’s next generation broadcast network. Arista EOS delivers the reliability and performance of a traditional broadcast infrastructure while enabling CBC to meet customer demands for high definition audio and video, including 4k and future 8k format requirements.

Arista’s Media Control Service API presents a basis for broadcast control and telemetry systems to interact with the network, providing bandwidth control and insight into the broadcast network.

The planned 39,000 m² (418,000 sq. ft.) Montreal broadcast facility will host several production areas dedicated to news, television production and post-production activities, fed by dozens of studios, control rooms, editing and infographic workstations and audio mixing suites. Its massive Master Control and Playout Room is designed to deliver 40 television channels, 40 web channels and 160 radio channels.

CBC/Radio-Canada’s broadcast channels reach an estimated monthly audience of 14 million consumers. The new Maison de Radio-Canada (MRC) will be a showcase for Canada’s public broadcaster with open, welcoming and inviting public spaces for both visitors, and the employees who work there every day. The creators and programmers will enjoy a dynamic, stimulating environment designed to foster collaboration and innovation.