Using Batch Functions in Cablecast

Batch Functions let you perform common tasks across multiple shows or schedule runs at once. You can find them by going to Tools > Batch Functions.

Available Batch Functions

Copy Shows

Copy Shows creates multiple copies of a single show record. Enter the ShowID of the show you want to copy and the number of Copies to create. This is useful when you need several independent show records based on the same source, such as recurring episodes that will each have their own files and metadata.

Clear Shows

Clear Shows clears all runs of a show and resets the show record so it can be reused. Enter a ShowID From and ShowID To range to clear all shows within that range. Note that reusing a cleared show record is a manual process — Cablecast does not automatically reassign cleared Show IDs when new shows are created. For most bulk show management tasks, bulk actions in Show Search are the preferred approach — they offer more control and work directly from search results.

Clear Schedule

Clear Schedule removes all scheduled runs within a specified date range. Select a Channel, then set a From and To date to remove all runs in that window. Use this when you need to wipe a block of programming from the schedule before rebuilding it, such as during a schedule overhaul or a station-wide event.

Find and Replace

Find and Replace locates all instances of one Show ID in the schedule and replaces them with a different Show ID. Enter the source ShowID in Replace ShowID, the replacement ShowID in with ShowID, then select a Channel and set a Starting and Ending date and time to scope the operation.

This is one of the most versatile batch functions. A common use case: if you enable a DSK (downstream key) setting on a show record after that show has already been scheduled, the existing runs won't reflect the change. Running Find and Replace — entering the same ShowID in both fields — forces Cablecast to reapply the show record settings to all scheduled runs within the specified range.

Deprecated Batch Functions

The following functions are deprecated and will be removed in a future version of Cablecast. They have been replaced by newer features that are more robust.