Ross Video: A History of Innovation in Broadcast Production
Founded in 1974 in Iroquois, Ontario, Ross Video has evolved from a small startup into a global leader in live and pre-programmed television production. The company was established by John Ross, a former engineer with the Canadian Broadcasting Corporation (CBC), following a suggestion from Jim Leitch, the founder of Leitch Video. In a testament to the entrepreneurial spirit of the era, the initial seed funding for the company was sourced from the sale of a restored Taylorcraft L-2 aircraft.
Key Facts
- Founded: 1974 in Iroquois, Ontario, by John Ross.
- Core Specialization: Hardware and software for live and pre-programmed TV production.
- Growth Milestone: Over 25 consecutive years of growth following the early 1990s recession.
- Leadership: Currently led by CEO and majority shareholder David Ross (owning over 80%).
- High-Profile Clients: NBC, Univision, Shaw, ESPN, and Fox.
- Major Events: Provided graphics for the Super Bowl, the Academy Awards (Oscars), and the Grammys.
The Evolution of Production Switchers
A production switcher is a device used to select between different video sources and mix them together for a live broadcast. Ross Video's journey began with the RVS family of switchers. The first model, the RVS 16–4, was quickly followed by the RVS 10-4, which featured 10 video inputs. To enhance capabilities, Ross introduced the first downstream keyer (DSK), allowing operators to add more video layers to the output.
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Second and Third Generation Advancements
In 1978, the company launched the "500 Series," introducing Multi-Level Effects (MLE). MLE is the Ross-branded term for Mix-Effect (ME), which allows operators to preview content before it goes live on air. Innovation continued in 1983 with the Encore Memory System, which digitized every switch and knob position for future recall.
By 1985, the third generation of switchers arrived. These units were more compact and utilized microprocessors in the chassis to control electronics via a serial link to the control panel.
Corporate Growth and Leadership
Despite the challenges of the early 1990s recession, Ross Video recovered strongly, maintaining over two and a half decades of continuous growth. The company's leadership transitioned to the second generation when John Ross's son, David, joined full-time in 1991. David Ross rose through the ranks from Director of Product Development to Executive Vice President, President, and eventually CEO in April 2006. In November 2005, he also became Chairman of the Board.
Modern Capabilities and Market Reach
Today, Ross Video provides a comprehensive ecosystem of broadcast tools. Their portfolio includes cameras, graphics, robotic camera systems, routing and infrastructure, signal processing, production automation, newsroom computer systems, and social media management tools.
Their influence extends to major sporting venues and global events. Ross provides stadium graphics for professional teams such as the Buffalo Bills, New York Mets, and Ottawa Senators. Additionally, their mobile productions unit handles high-stakes sports events for networks like ESPN, NBC, and Fox.
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Strategic Acquisitions
Ross Video has aggressively expanded its technological capabilities through a series of strategic acquisitions. Between 2009 and 2021, the company acquired 18 firms to bolster its offerings in robotics, graphics, and networking.
| Category | Acquired Companies |
|---|---|
| Graphics & Visuals | Media Refinery, Rocket Surgery, PIERO, Coiron, D3 LED, Bannister Lake Software |
| Robotics & Cameras | Fx-Motion, Cambotics, Spidercam, EagleEye |
| Infrastructure & Routing | Codan Broadcast, Montalto, Portalis, Image Video |
| Software & Workflow | Norpak, Mobile Content Providers, Automated Data Systems, Unreel, Abekas, Coveloz, Primestream, LAMA, ioversal |
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a production switcher?
A production switcher is a hardware device used in television production to select between various video sources and mix them together, allowing for seamless transitions and layering of video elements during a broadcast.
What does MLE stand for in Ross Video terminology?
MLE stands for Multi-Level Effects, which is the Ross-branded term for Mix-Effect (ME). It allows production operators to preview content before it is sent live to the air.
Who currently leads Ross Video?
David Ross serves as the CEO and Chairman of the Board. He is also the majority shareholder, owning over 80% of the company.
Which major sporting events use Ross Video technology?
Ross Video technology has been used to create graphics for the Super Bowl, and provides stadium graphics for teams like the New York Mets, Buffalo Bills, and Ottawa Senators.
How did Ross Video fund its initial startup costs?
The primary seed funding for the company was generated from the sale of a Taylorcraft L-2 aircraft that had been restored by founder John Ross.