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Master control is the technical hub of abroadcast operation common among most over-the-airtelevision stations andtelevision networks.[1] It is distinct from aproduction control room (PCR) intelevision studios where the activities such as switching from camera to camera are coordinated. Atransmission control room (TCR) is usually smaller in size and is a scaled down version ofcentralcasting.
Master control is the final point before a signal is transmitted over-the-air forterrestrial television orcablecast,satellite provider for broadcast, or sent on to acable television operator. Television master control rooms include banks ofvideo monitors, satellitereceivers,videotape machines,video servers, transmission equipment, and, more recently, computerbroadcast automation equipment for recording and playback of television programming.
Master control is generally staffed with one or two master control operators around-the-clock to ensure continuous operation. Master control operators are responsible for monitoring the quality and accuracy of the on-air product, ensuring the transmission meets government regulations, troubleshooting equipment malfunctions, and preparing programming forplayout. Regulations include both technical ones (such as those against over-modulation anddead air), as well as content ones (such asindecency andstation ID).
Manytelevision networks andradio networks or station groups have consolidated facilities and now operate multiple stations from one regional master control orcentralcasting center. This arrangement is known as a joint master control (JMC). An example of this centralizedbroadcast programming system on a large scale isNBC's "hub-spoke project" that enables a single "hub" to have control of dozens of stations' automation systems and to monitor their air signals, thus reducing or eliminating some responsibilities of local employees at theirowned-and-operated stations.
Outside theUnited States, theCanadian Broadcasting Corporation (CBC) manages four radio networks, two broadcast television networks, and several more cable/satellite radio and television services out of just two master control points (English language services at theCanadian Broadcasting Centre inToronto andFrench language services atMaison Radio-Canada inMontreal). Many other public and private broadcasters in Canada have taken a similar approach.
