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Bandit Lites 40 at 40: Jim Guinn
Global Director Of Computer Resources
Jim Guinn is the Global Director of Computer Resources at Bandit Lites. He is responsible for all company computers, servers, email, network devices and phone systems for all the Bandit Lites' worldwide offices. With Bandit since 2001, Guinn attributes his employment to good timing. Bandit Lites was in need of a full time person to get their PCs, servers and software upgraded to the 21st century and was looking for a new employer. Here are a few questions we asked to get to know him a little better.
Q: How has your job changed or evolved over the years?
A: My job has changed a bit over the past couple of years with the newer ArtNet devices and consoles coming onto the scene. I find myself helping out road crew more than I used to, teaching them about Ethernet cable, network switches, TCP/IP protocols and interconnecting these devices with the consoles and video servers.
Q: From your point of view, what are the biggest changes facing the entertainment technology industry at the moment?
A: The biggest changes include ArtNet networking, PC Based Consoles and Roadworthy PC's & Video Servers. Right now, a road person needs to know DMX & ArtNet protocols. As things evolve towards more Ethernet devices, it's going to be more important to know how to manage the traffic on these ethernet cables and to build a solid redundant network for each tour.
Q: What is a favorite memory from working at Bandit Lites?
A: A favorite memory is upgrading our patented MotoData motion control system from a 16-bit application to a 32-bit application to work better with the latest computers and to add more safety & functionality. I was on-site at Sony studios in California for five days for a tour rehearsal that was using the system for the first time. I had to make a few changes to the software and during the down time, I was able to walk around the back lot of Sony studios and see a few TV programs in production at that time.
Q: In your opinion, what is the most significant technologica advancement since you started working in the entertainment industry, and why?
A: Video Servers. It's amazing to see what people are doing with different media content and the ability to manipulate it with live video on a screen or LED wall.
Q: What is the best part of working for Bandit Lites?
A: The people. I work with a lot of talented and motivated people who want to do what's best for our clients. There is nothing better than working with people who like what they do and are glad to come to work everyday.
Q: What is the biggest challenge you face in your job?
A: The biggest challenges are keeping up with the latest technology and staying on top of Bandit Lites' constant growth of people and resources. Seems like every few years we get a new building or we add a lot of new people. As a result, I have to plan for constant upgrades to our network, server farms and storage needs for all the new email, AutoCAD plots, tour books, inventory databases or media files that we accumulate. When I started, Bandit had four servers and about 40 Gigs worth of data company-wide. It's been almost eight years later and today we have over 35 servers, many of which are virtualized, and we use about 18 Terabytes of Data worldwide with a larger UK office opening up in 2009.
Q: Do you have any advice for someone looking to get into this industry?
A: Come in with a good work ethic and attitude. Bandit has some of the hardest working people in the world with years of knowledge. Be sure to come in with a willingness to learn as much as you can about the industry and listen to folks who have been here a while.
10th November 2008
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