Nadeem Ahmed - Session 01

AR-020-19-1

(00:00:00 – 00:06:59) The interview opens with a discussion about the structure of a proposed film documenting MCRC’s technical history. The interviewer and Nadeem talk about the importance of locating old photographs, drawings, or documents that could visually explain the early infrastructure of the centre. Nadeem notes that many original technical drawings and records are no longer available, making it difficult to reconstruct the early setup visually. He then introduces himself, stating that he joined MCRC in 1990. He briefly outlines his educational background in electronics and communication and his earlier professional experience working as a service engineer at BPL, repairing televisions, VCRs, and audio equipment, before moving to Jamia on a contractual role and gradually taking on greater responsibilities. (00:07:00 – 00:09:30) Nadeem recalls his early days at MCRC, when he was questioned about professional video formats during his interview. He explains that although he was familiar with half-inch VHS systems, he was initially unfamiliar with three-quarter-inch professional formats. After being prompted, he learned that this referred to U-matic equipment. He reflects on how confidence, adaptability, and rapid learning were essential, as much of the required broadcast knowledge was acquired practically rather than through formal training. (00:09:31 – 00:13:45) Nadeem describes the nature of technical work in the early analogue era, emphasizing hands-on repair practices. He explains that engineers were expected to diagnose problems down to the component level, such as identifying faulty resistors or electronic parts, rather than simply replacing entire boards. He mentions dealing with synchronization-related issues in machines and contrasts this detailed repair culture with later practices where faulty cards or modules were replaced as complete units. (00:13:46 – 00:21:00) He discusses the limitations of analogue tape-based systems, particularly the issue of “generation loss.” Each copy or edit degraded image and sound quality, which placed strict constraints on editing workflows. Nadeem contrasts this with computer-based systems, where copying and editing do not progressively degrade quality. He also reflects on earlier film and tape editing methods, which involved physical cutting or sequential copying, making the editing process slower and less forgiving. (00:21:01 – 00:29:30) Nadeem explains that colour handling was a major challenge in earlier U-matic and tube-camera systems. He recalls frequent issues with colour balance and mentions instances where students accidentally activated a “negative” mode, resulting in incorrect images. He explains the importance of white balance in maintaining consistent colour reproduction, particularly skin tones, and briefly describes the underlying idea of balancing red, green, and blue signals. These examples illustrate both the technical fragility of older systems and the learning curve students faced. (00:29:31 – 00:35:30) The discussion continues with reflections on day-to-day technical realities. Nadeem emphasizes that many problems arose not from major equipment failure but from small issues such as improper handling, incorrect settings, or lack of attention to basic procedures. He highlights how much technical knowledge was passed on informally, through experience rather than manuals, and how technicians often had to intervene quietly to ensure student projects could proceed smoothly. (00:35:31 – 00:52:30) Nadeem talks about recurring problems with cables, explaining that internal breaks caused by pulling or poor handling often led to signal loss. He notes that studio cables were particularly troublesome and required careful rolling and storage, something students frequently neglected. He reflects on how maintenance demands have persisted even as technology evolved, and how technicians often had to balance multiple responsibilities to keep systems operational. (00:52:31 – 00:57:35) He compares older, physically larger switchers—such as Grass Valley models—with newer, compact control surfaces. While older systems were bulky, he notes that they were often easier to understand and teach. In contrast, newer switchers combine multiple functions into single buttons or controls, making them more confusing for beginners. He likens this to computer keyboards where one key performs multiple actions depending on combinations. (00:57:36 – 00:59:41) Reflects on how his responsibilities have expanded over time, especially as colleagues retired and fewer technical staff remained. He mentions that his work now includes overseeing air-conditioning and electrical issues in addition to electronics. He notes that while he used to maintain written technical notes, many were lost over time due to relocation and changing circumstances. (00:59:42 – ~01:01:10) Reiterates the importance of archival photographs or technical drawings to help viewers understand earlier technologies. He explains that visuals make it much easier to grasp how tube-based circuitry functioned, and how later Betacam-era systems became more complex due to card-based architecture. Nadeem responds that he does not currently possess such photographs or drawings but agrees to check if any can be found, including whether any material exists in digitized form.

24 July 2025

Oral histories of technical personnel in Broadcast and Community Video

Nadeem Ahmed