WMAQ-TV has four color mobile units of three distinct types developed by the station engineering staff. The first filled the need for a compact videotape unit that could move into the field on a moment's notice. It was constructed in a Ford Econoline Window Van, equipped with a TR-5 tape recorder and a 5KW generator to power equipment, air conditioning and lighting. Early in 1967 is was equipped with a Cohu three-videcon color camera, which has been modernized with plumbicons. There is a second unit of the same size equipped with a Norelco PCP Backpack portable camera.

The station's third remote unit, designated as CG-3, was designed as a major facility with complete capability for network sports coverage, one of the most demanding program requirements today. The unit is in two parts, each a 35 foot semitrailer custom built by WMAQ-TV. The A unit, or control unit is the production center on wheels, and the B unit acts as a carry-all for cameras and other equipment, and includes a videotape room. The A, or control unit, is airconditioned by two four tone units, which can also be used for heating. The monitor housing contains 16 moonochrome and two color monitors. There are consoles for the technical director and director, a technical supervisor and associate director. The unit has five Norelco PC-70 color cameras with facilities for a sixth. Video from the cameras is routed to an auxiliary switching of a 22 in and 10 out INC relay crossbar, with SCR controlled overlay switching. The main switching system is a relay type, basically a two bus switcher which offeres a total of 29 different wipes, spotlight, additive and non-additive mix and insert effects.

The audio installation is built arounf 10 four channel remote amplifiers, providing facilities for 32 microphone inputs. It has three basic systems of communications---interrupted feedback, studio address, cue, squawk box and interphone and Telco PL. Each has a different function for production and intercommunication connecting all personnel at a remote location. The B unit of CG-3 also contains facilities for crew comfort and sanitation.

WMAQ-TV's fourth remote unit, CG-4, represents an expansion of the first two tape units. It is a two TK-44A plumbicon camera unit with its own engine generator for power, heat, etc. The chassis and body was custom built. The console contains the entire electronics and control head of a Grass Valley Switcher, with 12 input, preset and program buses with outbar and flip-flop switching. It also includes two special effects buses and a special effects package. The mobile unit is designed to be readily stripped so the equipment can be moved into a building.