After experiencing repeated failures and frustrations with his old workflow, ASP founder Jay Johnson began looking for an effective Mac-based broadcast solution. Jay found ToolsOnAir, a workflow provider offering efficient and low-cost Mac-based broadcast production suites, including tools for video, audio, graphics, automation, and asset management. ToolsOnAir features AJA's Io XT in its workflow packages to take advantage of Apple's powerful Thunderbolt technology, swiftly passing video between Macs and external devices.

ASP's workflow setup includes 3 Mac Minis and 2 Io XTs. One Io XT passes video from the first Mac Mini running just:live, ToolsOnAir's live production management tool, to the second Mac Mini, equipped with a recording device. Then a second Io XT takes data from that Mac Mini to a third, where ASP uses Apple Final Cut and Adobe Premiere Pro to edit.

"I work in very challenging environments, so to have stability in my workflow is key," said Jay. "I'm not in a studio, I'm out hanging from scaffolding 2 miles over the ocean - but my mobile units still need to deliver the highest quality content. These surfing competitions are a major production along the lines of an NFL game - very high-end edits, multiple camera shoots, HD coverage - and I need reliable tools. AJA's Io XT is absolutely a key component to having a successful workflow."

ASP's most recent surfing project was broadcasting Nike's NSSA (National Scholastic Surfing Association) Championships in Huntington Beach, CA. "With the new workflow we were able to successfully produce multiple webcasts for the event, with absolutely no issues," said Jay. "The incredible throughput of Thunderbolt paired with these reliable tools is really the only way this could all be possible."

AJA's Io XT is a compact, portable solution for video capture and playback, made lightning-fast by Thunderbolt technology. Its many features include 3G/Dual Link/HD/SD-SDI, component analog and HDMI connectivity, and uncompressed HD and SD 4:2:2 and 4:4:4 capable video and audio connectivity. For more details, visit: http://www.aja.com/en/products/io-xt/

About AJA Video Systems, Inc.
Since 1993, AJA Video has been a leading manufacturer of high-quality and cost-effective digital video interface, conversion, acquisition and desktop solutions supporting the professional broadcast and post- production markets. With headquarters in Grass Valley, California, AJA maintains an extensive sales channel of dealers and systems integrators around the world. For further information visit www.aja.com.