UK Broadcaster S4C Chooses Infortrend 16Gb FC Storage

S4C is the only Welsh language television channel in the world.

Prompted by the need to replace aging storage systems, S4C chose Infortrend Technology Inc. EonStor DS S16F-R2651 16G FC products, which provide performance and reliability, alongside easy integration and after-sales support.

With over 115 hours of programming each week, presenting content quickly is essential for S4C. Featuring the 16G FC technology, the EonStor DS S16F-R2651 system is used as central storage and is a key element in the S4C workflow. The unit forms the core of the S4C hardware infrastructure, with all media coming in and going out of the building, landing on Infortrend storage. Therefore, high speed and reliability are top concerns for the broadcaster.

In addition, easy integration and deployment were critical factors during the storage selection process, being vital in minimising any downtime and transitional complications. The 16G FC system integrated with the existing S4C IT environment, which includes Quantum StorNext SAN file systems and DALET Media Asset Management storage supervision.

“S4C was in a position that it had to upgrade and increase its production store and, after looking at various options, we felt the Infortrend solution offered by ERA ticked all the boxes, from cost to performance. Since the Infortrend EonStor DS S16F-R2651 16G FC storage has been installed and integrated by ERA, it has provided us with trouble-free high performance“, said Steve Cowin, CTO, S4C.

Infortrend storage was recommended to S4C by IT application provider ERA London, who has a strong presence in the British broadcast industry.

“Recommending Infortrend was the natural thing to do in light of S4Cs requirements for high-end performance and high accessibility to improve services offered to their viewers. In addition, Infortrend systems are very easy to configure and integrate,” said Sean Baker, commercial director, ERA.

“We are confident the Infortrend EonStor DS 16G FC storage will allow S4C to better serve its audience with the performance and reliability our customers have come to depend on. With built-in scalability and long-term support, we expect this successful integration to become an extended relationship for all parties,” commented Thomas Kao, senior director of product planning, Infortrend.