The latest solution for multi-screen, multi-site broadcast

BIDS5 no longer relies on proprietary in-shop PCs and the NZRB have deployed it using standard PC architecture. BIDS5 will drive traditional gantry screens as well as large screens using the multi-screen format. But, unlike many competing solutions it does not simply split the large screens to replicate the old displays. The new displays create flexible panes that present more information with improved layouts based on a set of business rules. Templates are developed in HTML to make in-house development simpler for end-users.

BIDS5 contains a number of components to provide the complete control system. At its heart is an application server and database server working together to receive data, process it and send it out automatically to the shop servers. The system is controlled from the BIDS5 User Interface, which can run on a number of client PCs, all of which are kept updated by a messaging system. The BIDS User Interface provides all the facilities to monitor and control what is displayed in the shops at any time. The system requests any missing data packets.

Automations

The most significant development has been the introduction of complex business rule algorithms. These manage the screen displays through the use of scripts in such a way that multiple panes on screens are controlled subject to rules defined by the studio. Hierarchies of carousels and sub-carousels are controlled by these scripts. The rules enable the system to run with as little operator intervention as possible and are tailored to the individual requirements of clients. Panes may display any combination of the following: Traditional betting information, TV and video, form data and marketing displays with a mix of static images in carousels and Flash.

Form data displayed on the screens is supplied by the Press Association who also provides data to the DailyForm touchscreens. BIDS5 maintains both systems with live prices.

Main Features include:

  • No proprietary hardware. The In-Shop PC is built with standard PC hardware
  • HTML template driven displays provide flexible options and afford limitless betting opportunities
  • HTML templates are simple and easy to create
  • Traditional gantry screens and new large screen formats are all managed through BIDS5
  • Automations implement complex rules, presenting operators with the choice of how much control they wish to exercise
  • Automatic racing data input from any data feed - xml or other standard formats
  • Central control of TV channel changing within the betting shop, plus Sky decoders or set-top boxes
  • Flexible grouping provides regional variations in service
  • Whole race meetings are controlled with a single automation setting
  • Comprehensive scheduler to automate operations

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