There are some exciting developments going on at LTC this Fall. We have purchased a new HD-ready broadcast server that will allow us to stream in high definition all programming that is produced in high definition. The programming will be accessible on all mobile devices and we will have a Roku channel for HD viewing LTC on your TV with a Roku device. As you know, all LTC’s field cameras and Studio B are high definition already. If and when Comcast provides Lowell with high definition channels, we will be ready to provide the signal. The new server will be on-line in December.

In step with our transition to an all-HD facility, the Board of Directors has approved a major upgrade of Studio A. The room, the lights, and the audio board are all staying the same, but we will install three new Sony HD cameras, a wireless intercom system, a full size teleprompter, and a new Tricaster switcher with graphics and virtual set capability. If you have been trained on the Studio B Tricaster, you will feel right at home with the new Studio A configuration.

After the installation, Studio A producers and crew who have not gotten Tricaster training should schedule a time with Steve Manock to be trained and to input their show graphics into the computer. All show graphics should now be made in the 16:9 format or 1920 X 1080, full HD. The Tricaster itself has an excellent graphics program for creating lower thirds and other titles. Studio A will be closed for production for two weeks, from November 21 until December 5. We will be training producers with live shows first, the week of November 28. Please submit recorded shows during those two weeks.

One more development is the installation of a podcasting studio upstairs at LTC in collaboration with Middlesex Community College. Podcasting aligns well with LTC’s mission to provide a variety of communication tools to Lowell residents. We are offering the first podcast training on November 12 from 11:00am to 1:00pm. Members will be able to use the LTC website to host their podcasts. Call LTC to reserve a spot in this free session because space is limited.

Whew! That is a lot of excitement at LTC! We hope to see you soon at Lowell’s community media center.

Wendy Blom, LTC Executive Director