POWER STUDIO

Syndicated Programs

Syndicated programs are usually delivered as audio files by another producer, network or provider. Power Studio uses the Item Download plugin to download or copy those files automatically and place them in the generated playlist.

  1. Confirm how the provider publishes the file: local file share, HTTP or FTP.
  2. Decide the expected duration and broadcast time.
  3. Configure a download task in the Item Download plugin.
  4. Use wildcards when the provider uses different file names per date, day or hour.
  5. Add the download task as a macro line in the Clock Format.
  6. Generate a playlist and review the placeholder.
  7. Use Test configuration before relying on the workflow on air.

When the playlist is generated, the macro reserves time for the program. About five minutes before the placeholder should play, Power Studio downloads or copies the file, renders it if needed and replaces the placeholder with the final item.

Timing

Set the macro duration close to the expected program length. This helps the Format Planner reserve the right amount of time.

If the program must start at an exact time, review the Clock Format, Floating setting and any preceding fixed items. If complete songs are more important than exact timing, a floating transition may sound more natural.

Fallback Content

Keep normal playlist content after the syndicated-program macro when the station needs a fallback. If the file is unavailable or too short, the operator can continue with music or other scheduled items instead of silence.

For unattended operation, define the fallback behavior before the first real broadcast. Operators should know whether to skip the macro, execute it manually, play a previous valid download or continue with the next playlist item.

Checks Before Air

Before scheduling a new syndicated program:

  • Confirm the source URL or path from the on-air computer.
  • Confirm credentials if the provider uses FTP or protected HTTP.
  • Confirm the downloaded file format is supported on the workstation.
  • Confirm timing markers and volume envelope if imaging is added.
  • Confirm the output folder has enough free disk space.
  • Confirm the macro appears in the generated playlist at the expected position.