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Functional overview

The following graphic shows the basic workflow for using Makalu:

Makalu basic workflow

Figure: Makalu basic workflow

From a top-level perspective, Makalu consists of the following functional areas:

  • Ingest
  • Schedule (Traffic/Planning)
  • Graphics
  • Playout (Automation)
  • Ad triggering (optional)

Ingest

The ingest functionality provided by Makalu is focused on the file-based upload of video content. To upload files, the included Makalu Asset Uploader application can be used. Uploaded video files are automatically processed, which includes e.g. the creation of a thumbnail image, a low-res (proxy) video file and media information (technical metadata). As a result the processed files can be used properly by Makalu. In addition to file-based content, Makalu also supports live sources (provided as web streams).

Schedule

Makalu includes a traffic component for strategic/operative as well as rough/daily planning. It enables using uploaded files to create shows, adding shows to playlists as well as adding graphics and other secondary events. A playlist can be added to a rundown in the Makalu Automation to define the content the playout should actually play.

Graphics

Makalu uses the Singular.Live graphics platform for overlay graphics, which provides tools for composing, controlling and output of professional graphics. Each output generated by Singular.Live can be received by the Makalu Automation and can be used as additional layer on top of the main video output.

Playout

The Makalu Automation component is used to control one or more players running on playout instances, that are seamlessly playing video files or live sources from a playlist. The automation can be controlled either manually by the operator or scheduled/time-triggered via the planning component. The player output can be distributed to web, OTT, and IPTV targets.