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Dear friends,
As the winter holiday season is approaching, we extend our warmest wishes for a joyful and prosperous 2025!
We hope it will be successful and happy for all your projects and aspirations.
Should you need any assistance with your video production or VAR projects, SLOMO.TV is here for you.
Wishing you the best,
SLOMO.TV Team
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A modern sports arena requires a unified system for managing information within the venue, which is based on IPTV technology and supports multimedia management. The main goals of this system are to provide updates to the audience and to create a community of fans.
In this article, we look at how two subsystems − media surfaces and IPTV − work together to create an information channel that is independent of traditional television. This channel can attract a large audience while providing additional monetization opportunities.
The SLOMO.TV Arena Media Manager system is created to manage media content on large screens in public spaces such as sports arenas. The Arena Media Manager system is based on IPTV technology and operates over a local area network (LAN) or over the internet. It enables easy sharing of various types of information, including videos, throughout the venue. The aim of IPTV visualization systems is to engage visitors and turn them into loyal customers or fans, as well as to enhance media coverage, regardless of the venue type — be it a local club's arena or a multipurpose stadium. Now let's focus on some of the technical features of the system.
Typically, IPTV provides a synchronous video broadcast (a continuous video display focused on a location or event) to multiple receivers (media screens). In addition to standard uses, IPTV allows for a second-screen experience through apps or browsers on personal devices, accessible by scanning QR codes from venue screens. This screen mode can be utilized for purchasing tickets for upcoming events, playing interactive games, ordering food and taking quizzes about the ongoing match or event, all of which are designed to entertain and engage the audience.
The media surfaces of the arena, both indoor and outdoor, are used to display different types of information. External structures, such as media facades and LED pillars, are designed to show video content, which can vary in nature. They can display local news, weather forecasts, temperature readings, traffic reports, as well as live broadcasts or replays of ongoing matches or concerts, and commercial advertisements, thereby boosting the site's income.
The variety of internal media surfaces available in the arena − including LED video cubes, large high-definition screens, video walls and perimeter boards − ensures that every event is engaging and dynamic. Modern technology also allows for the use of massive screens up to 50 x 60 metres, enhancing the visual experience and creating an immersive atmosphere.
The typical arena consists of two main areas: the first one includes the event site (field or stage) and the stands (auditorium), while the second one covers the remaining space, such as food courts, corridors, and lounge zones. Consequently, visitors may enjoy content from different media surfaces throughout the venue.
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In the world of sports, creating engaging content is essential to keep the audience interested and provide professionals with valuable insights. One such type of content is sports highlights, which include key moments from a match or game. In this article, we will explore the different methods of creating sports highlights and their benefits.
Typically, after a match, the recorded video footage is sent to the studio, where editors create highlights for different purposes as requested – compiling dangerous moments for fans, fouls and tactical elements – for coaching analysis, and so on. Here are some of the situations in football that can be shown as highlights: scoring a goal, a goalkeeper's save, a free kick, dribbling, passing, tackling, headers and feints. High-quality highlights enhance fan engagement, especially via social media, while coaching analysis provides a comprehensive view of the match.
There are two general ways of producing sports highlights:
- Manual creation – after the game or match, the recorded material is given to the editor. The editor works with a list of files by hand and it takes time to process them, especially when working with multi-camera setups;
- AI generation – as AI may not be completely accurate and there is always a risk of incorrect moment recognition, each algorithm needs to be customised for a particular sport. The main challenge is that the output still requires human review and correction.
Both methods have their pros and cons, but ultimately, creating highlights manually provides more control over the final product and ensures accuracy in selecting key moments. Meanwhile, using AI can save time and effort, making it a practical solution for teams aiming to swiftly produce highlights for external or internal use.
The SLOMO.TV team offers two effective solutions for creating high-quality sports highlights:
- Dynamic creation of an Edit Decision List (EDL) during the routine Replay Operator control. In this case, the timeline for the Non-Linear Editing (NLE) is generated during the event. This allows the editor to work with the recorded material (using DMR™ technology) both immediately after the match and dynamically during the match. The editor receives a list of recorded files and markers for the most interesting moments from the replay operator. This simplifies the manual compilation process;
- Automatic generation of highlights for each of the replay playlists. With our replay system, the operator can easily categorize replay clips into playlists, with each playlist dedicated to a specific type of event – such as goals, kicks, fouls and so on. Once recording is complete, one or more selected playlists can be exported to a video file. Thanks to the wide range of formats supported, the finished file can be used in an NLE editor for final editing or immediately shared with the audience or posted on social media.
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In TV production, replay servers are often located in the broadcast control room to manage multiple incoming channels and create summaries for multiple independent outputs. As a result, there is a need for simultaneous independent editing of clips and playback.
Standard workflow
Replay operators, who are responsible for markup and summaries during broadcast, typically interact with replay servers in two main output modes: PGM + PVW and Multi-PGM, which are the standard configurations on many platforms such as EVS.
PGM (Program) is an output that represents the main, broadcast-ready video signal that viewers will ultimately see. PVW (Preview) is an output that represents a preview of the video signal that is used to pre-screen or review content before it is actually broadcast or recorded.
PGM + PVW mode allows you to markup and output content, and is a common combination for TV production in general for one output channel. In Multi-PGM mode, you can use the outputs for two different playlists at the same time, for example, for two different output screens with different sports summaries. However, this mode makes it difficult to markup and work with clips, as more channels would have to be loaded for editing.
Our solution
SLOMO.TV replay servers already support both modes, albeit with some limitations for the second playlist in the Multi-PGM mode. However, we are constantly improving our platform and developing new solutions to enhance the quality of our systems.
Now we are introducing a much requested upgraded Multi-PGM option that has been in high demand from our users recently.
We are combining the two output modes, offering the unique ability of using PGM + PVW as well as a separate PGM playlist on one replay server. The solution ensures that all standard features of the SLOMO.TV replay server, such as search on all channels, remain available.
We are developing software that will allow users to create two fully functional PGM outputs and the ability to work with playlists, transitions, editing and markup functions simultaneously on the server interface. Even when the server is playing the PGMs, the operator can continue to work on the clips and summaries. This option empowers replay operators to independently play and manage two playlists and a preview.
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In the modern world of sport, the Video Assistant Referee (VAR) system has become an integral part of officiating. This technology allows referees to review controversial moments and make informed decisions.
One of the most striking recent examples of the importance of VAR was the men's football opening match between the national teams of Argentina and Morocco at the Paris 2024 Olympic Games. The match ended 2-1 in favor of Morocco after the VAR disallowed Argentina's final goal. In this historic case, the VAR system helped to fairly assess the situation and make the right decision.
As the VAR technology helps to avoid mistakes and ensure fair results, it is becoming increasingly popular in world football.
More than just hardware
VAR is a complex system that includes an administrative component, technical resources and referees.
The administrative component consists of rules that define the procedure for using the VAR. This is an important element of the system, ensuring its efficiency and transparency.
The technical side includes the equipment required to operate the VAR system.
The most important element of this system, however, are the referees, i.e. the human resource. Referees must be well-trained, highly qualified and constantly improving their skills. Their professional life is one of continuous self-improvement.
Academy
Comprehensive training in VAR technology requires a system that allows judges to master the technology and improve as effectively as possible. SLOMO.TV's Academy system solves this problem. It allows football organizations of all sizes to train new referees, warm up the VAR team before matches and improve the skills of veteran officials.
Academy is a training server for TV and VAR teams and is already used by many sports leagues, federations, TV companies and broadcasters.
While standalone training systems are effective, football organizations still need to optimize their workflow and resources for maximum efficiency. As a result, they tend to look for ways to perform multiple tasks with minimal equipment. If possible, the hardware solution should be able to be used not only as a training system, but also as a VAR system during actual matches.
videoReferee®-FSK
SLOMO.TV offers a comprehensive VAR solution videoReferee®-FSK Football Starter Kit, designed to meet the current demands of modern sports. The videoReferee®-FSK system is ideal for leagues and associations at all levels, providing both a solution to existing needs and new opportunities for growth.
The system is unique in that it combines two functions: it can act both as an 8-channel videoReferee® VAR server and as an Academy training simulator. This solution makes it possible to train in the absence of live signals without the need for an external Academy server. An important feature of videoReferee®-FSK is the ability to warm up the VAR team before the match using the updateable library of training clips.
Built on a compact yet powerful 2U server, the system can also be "field-upgraded" to a 12/16 channel VAR system with the purchase of a temporary or permanent license. The server is equipped with 16 SDI I/Os, which allows it to be upgraded remotely.
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In August 2024, SLOMO.TV will release Slomo Launcher — a tool for managing and editing configurations and projects on SLOMO.TV instant replay and video refereeing servers. With Launcher you can easily customize your server for any specific use.
SLOMO.TV solutions feature a sophisticated hardware and software system with a wide range of functions to handle various tasks regardless of their volume or type.
Each broadcast task has to be specifically configured, and until now this has required the expertise of a qualified video engineer. Now, thanks to the Launcher, adapting the server to your needs has become a breeze! Slomo Launcher is designed for intuitive, task-based configuration of replay and video refereeing systems by non-experts.
With Slomo Launcher you could configure the system to your specific needs and capabilities, supported by your system hardware and software licenses and use the application to manage projects, fine-tune settings and perform diagnostic tests.
The graphical user interface (GUI) of Slomo Launcher significantly reduces the time needed for server configuration. Now you can do it without technical support.
Moreover, the Slomo Launcher interface supports multiple languages: English, Spanish, French, German, Russian and Chinese.
The release of Slomo Launcher coincides with the launch of the new SLOMO.TV software version — 8.1. The Launcher application will be provided free of charge to all users during their valid support period when upgrading to the new software version.
A powerful tool that allows you to customize the system for any task, Slomo Launcher is made up of several components that make it easy for operators and video engineers to work with both the server and the projects.
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Rapier.gfx is a versatile toolset for creating and managing all types of real-time graphics in broadcast and sports environments, supporting 1 to 16 synchronous UHD/HD/SD playback channels.
This multi-channel system empowers users to create intricate dynamic graphic compositions and playlists for traditional TV broadcasting, live streaming and sportscasting. In particular, Rapier.gfx supports synchronous playback, independent operation and remote control of venue information systems, including LED video tables, video walls and media facades.
Rapier.gfx comes equipped with an editor for graphic composition, offering multiple player options and synchronization management. This allows users to easily create dynamic and engaging visual experiences for cultural and entertainment facilities. With Rapier.gfx, professionals in the field of media production can unleash their creativity and deliver captivating content to audiences.
With Rapier.gfx, users can synchronize multiple media surfaces across different locations, ensuring a seamless and cohesive visual experience for attendees. Whether it's a sports event, concert, or entertainment show, Rapier.gfx helps professionals deliver high-quality and impactful visuals that enhance the overall atmosphere and engagement level of the audience.
Rapier.gfx stands out as a cutting-edge software solution that revolutionizes the design and creation process through its object-oriented paradigm and adaptable architecture. This innovative platform offers unparalleled versatility by supporting a diverse array of objects, including text, graphics, clocks, timers, live and pre-recorded video, sound objects, and more. Users can easily create, adjust, and manipulate a wide variety of objects, while also effectively managing rendering, playback, external signals, and data sources.
The flexibility of the platform allows users to tailor their designs to their specific needs, making it an ideal tool for both small and large projects. Rapier.gfx is particularly well-suited for multimedia presentations, live events, and interactive installations where precise synchronization and control are essential. Its intuitive interface and comprehensive feature set make it a popular choice among professionals in the media management and broadcasting industry.
Rapier.gfx excels in real-time video rendering, ensuring smooth and interactive output. This sets it apart from competitors, providing an unparalleled dynamic user experience. With Rapier.gfx, users can creatively bring their visions to life seamlessly integrating text, graphics, videos, and sounds.
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A FIFA VAR training course for referees was held at the Football House of the Kazakhstan Football Federation (KFF) on 10-14 June.
As fitness is essential for a referee, the specialists took part in practical activities. This included a physical test in accordance with FIFA standards. Experienced FIFA instructor Farhad Abdullayev led the course.
To make the VAR training sessions as realistic as possible, KFF chose to use the Academy system — a comprehensive simulator that works with multiple live camera signals. The compact 1U version of the SLOMO.TV's Academy generates video feeds similar to those from a real OB van at the arena.
FIFA takes great care to ensure that VAR implementation and training procedures are in line with international protocols. Therefore, FIFA provided special multi-channel clips of real football matches to be used during this course.
The VAR course programme also included the following theoretical sessions: "Game Management and Monitoring", "Hand Play and APP Analysis", "Ball In and Out of Play" and "Rough Play and Unsportsmanlike Conduct".
In total, over 100 local football match officials participated in the practice, including Premier League and First Division referees, assistant referees and acting VARs.
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As a super-technological organization, FIFA uses all the possibilities of video recording not only to make the game interesting and fair, but also to make it safe. For this reason, a Venue Medical Officer at every FIFA tournament must be provided with a replay tablet to play back video footage of any incidents that may occur.
Football players are often exposed to injuries caused by collisions with other players, the ball or pitch and ground equipment (such as barriers, anchors, goals, team shelters, dugouts, benches, flag poles), which can sometimes have a delayed effect on their health. For example, the player may suffer a partial fracture that isn't immediately felt, but may develop into a full fracture if the person continues to play. Head trauma is also notoriously dangerous if left undiagnosed and untreated. Some of the medical problems that may occur to football players on the pitch during a match are as follows: sudden cardiac arrest; fractures and dislocations; spinal injuries; head injuries and concussions; maxillofacial injuries.
According to the study "Epidemiology of injuries in professional football: a systematic review and meta-analysis", published in 2020, the overall incidence of injuries in male professional football players was 8.1 injuries/1000 hours of exposure. The incidence of match injuries is almost 10 times higher than the incidence of training injuries, and higher in international tournaments than in national leagues. As expected, lower extremity injuries were by far the most frequent location for an injury with an incidence rate of 6.8 injuries per 1000 hours of exposure. The thigh was the most commonly injured anatomical region followed by the knee. Furthermore, the most common type of injury grouping was muscle/tendon injuries.
It is very important that team physicians are able to record and identify such incidents. To this end, FIFA has appointed Venue Medical Officers to be present at all international competitions to assess the health consequences of injuries and the ability of athletes to continue competing after an incident. This can be done using either a dedicated video recording system or a remote independent VAR workplace configured to provide only the necessary feeds.
SLOMO.TV introduces a tablet solution based on a VAR server for medical tracking in sports. Using a standard wireless tablet running Android or iOS and connected via Wi-Fi, the Venue Medical Officers can freely access selected video channels to assess the medical situation on the pitch. The wireless connection allows the tablet to be used remotely from the VAR server.
The system is gesture controlled and allows a quick selection of the required channel to review the incident. To examine the situation as closely as possible, the video can be rewound/forwarded, played back at variable speeds, zoomed in and out, and the channels can be switched.
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Another CIS football association, the Kyrgyz Football Union (KFU), has chosen SLOMO.TV as the technology provider for its national project to introduce a Video Assistant Referee (VAR) system.
Following previous implementations at the Kazakhstan Football Federation (KFF), the Football Federation of Tajikistan (FFT) and the Georgian Football Federation (GFF), the SLOMO.TV mobile complex - a VAR van based on the FIFA-certified videoReferee®-8F solution - has now become the first VAR system in Kyrgyzstan.
A SLOMO.TV training course on the VAR system installation and management was held from 10 to 14 June at the Kyrgyz Football Union (KFU) office in Bishkek, Kyrgyzstan.
Alexander Kalinin, one of SLOMO.TV's leading specialists in video refereeing, trained the representatives of the KFU Referees Department on how to set up and work with the VAR system, comprising an 8-channel videoReferee® server and Academy simulator.
The training consisted of theoretical classes on functionality, configuration and interaction with the system, as well as practical tasks performed on the Academy system.
The practical sessions included practicing interacting with the system, reviewing and analyzing different moments of the match in the RRA and, in particular, communicating between the VAR and other members of the video refereeing team via a Hollyland intercom system in different scenarios.
On June 20, the videoReferee® system was successfully tested at the Kurmanbek stadium in Jalal-Abad during a match between the U-16 youth teams Muras United and Barça Academy.
The VAR system was approved under the guidance of Asian Football Confederation's VAR officer Zhakhongir Saidov and representatives of the KFU's Referees Department - Spartak Danilenko and Artyom Skopintsev. All experts agreed that the tests had been successfully completed.
Introduction of VAR in Kyrgyzstan is a historic event for the country and Central Asian Football Association (CAFA). In the near future, the VAR systems will be implemented in a number of stadiums throughout Kyrgyzstan. This summer's CAFA U-20 Championship, to be held at the Kurmanbek Stadium in Jalal-Abad from 5-13 July, will see the first official use of VAR. Six national teams from Kyrgyzstan, Afghanistan, Iran, Tajikistan, Turkmenistan and Uzbekistan are participating.
