C+T @ NAB

Mosart Newscast Automation 3.4 has a range of new features and functions, including a redesigned graphical user interface (GUI) with full user configurability, and will be on show at NAB 2013. Story elements such as cameras, clips, and graphics can be assigned to buttons for simple and quick access. A range of interface overviews also can be assigned to buttons, making the GUI a shot box for touch screens and adaptable for a range of TV productions. Story scripts from the newsroom computer system are shown directly in the Mosart GUI, and Mosart operators can store clips and graphical elements in a pool ready for execution on request.

Newscast Automation 3.4 now also includes interfaces with Harris Nexio and Grass Valley K2 video servers; Calrec and Stagetec audio mixers; Casper, Xpression, and Pixelpower graphics; and Brainstorm virtual studio and Camerobot systems. Mosart’s industry-leading open-systems compatibility is extended with new support for Octopus and Annova’s OpenMedia in addition to ENPS, iNEWS, Dalet News, and NorCom’s NCPower.

Mosart’s Virtual Audio Fader Panel gives the director and production staff more control and a better overview of audio faders and levels — both those on air and those coming up next.

Content repurposing/reuse and media asset management (MAM) integration are enhanced with Mosart’s delivery of news as-run information to continuity control systems such as Snell’s Morpheus. Through the news as-run integration, continuity and MAM systems are now able to reuse individual stories or events from earlier recorded Mosart productions. Mosart can also be user-configured to query MAM systems for metadata information.

Mosart multi-studio solution is a software package for larger multi-studio broadcasters, and consists of Mosart Media Router and Mosart Template Sharing. The package provides highly efficient, streamlined sharing of resources and coordination across several control rooms. Scarce resources such as video server ports and graphics engines can be shared for optimal use of infrastructure. Workflow for journalists and production staff is optimised across the broadcasting facilities through template sharing and an automated template database, making it possible to create templates that can be called by the journalists from the Newsroom Computer System (NRCS) throughout the organisation and can be used in multiple control rooms. Mosart’s system also integrates with studio management systems to provide the ultimate in efficiency and economy.

Visit http://www.mosart.no

At the 2013 NAB Show (Booth SU1411), Harmonic will showcase solutions that enable more efficient multiformat content production, more cost-effective distribution of content over any network, and better support of high-quality video delivery regardless of the display device. Throughout the show, Harmonic also will provide demonstrations of the next-generation Ultra HD digital video format and HEVC compression, as well as the company’s latest Ellipse contribution encoder.

ProMedia Suite of software and appliance solutions is engineered to optimise video production workflows for live and high-volume video-on-demand multi-screen applications. New enhancements to the suite include further ad insertion and monetisation capabilities, time-shift features, and broad support for ecosystem partners.

At the 2013 NAB Show, Harmonic will demonstrate the recently unveiled ProMedia Carbon MP, a cloud-based transcoding service created for professional applications and available on the Amazon Web Services (AWS) Marketplace. Powered by the acclaimed Harmonic Rhozet technology used in the ProMedia Carbon transcoding engine, ProMedia Carbon MP enables content creators, service providers, and media professionals to convert broadcast-quality video content quickly and cost-effectively to virtually any standard media format.

ProMedia Carbon MP allows users to transcode file-based video content in the cloud on an hourly basis. Users can also access the application’s powerful transcoding engine via a familiar XML API to deploy highly scalable, cloud-based transcoding workflows. In either scenario, the platform’s rich user interface and flexible API allows users to perform a host of critical video operations such as SD/HD and PAL/NTSC conversions, logo insertion, colour correction, and multi-format closed-captioning processing.

Harmonic will announce enhancements to the market-leading Spectrum media server product line. The Spectrum ChannelPort integrated channel playout system will feature powerful new channel-in-a-box capabilities such as dual DVEs with independent branding. 

Visit http://www.harmonicinc.com

With the opening of a new state-of-the-art fibre-optics lab at its headquarters in metro New York, BTX now offers a full line of fibre system solutions for high-definition audio and video applications for both the broadcast and A/V marketplace, which they will be showing at NAB (Booth C7319). In operation since January, the lab is staffed by a team of technicians and features automated termination and test equipment. These new fibre capabilities complement BTX’s existing offering of copper assembly and custom plate and panel solutions.

As a result of its new capabilities, BTX has already been designated by Neutrik — the leading manufacturer of audio connectors and receptacles — as a Certified Assembler Fiber House for its opticalCON line of fibre-optic connection systems. Neutrik’s opticalCON products are based on standard optical LC-Duplex connections and feature rugged-body, high-performance fibre contacts as well as a unique shutter design to protect against dust and dirt. BTX’s fibre product portfolio also includes products from AFL, Atlona, Belden, Gefen, Kramer, OCC, RDL, TE Connectivity, and Telecast.

The new Just Add Power 2G+ HD-SDI over IP transmitter now enables high-definition digital video broadcast over IP connections with a 1000% increase in specified network speed. Equipped with multi-channel audio, the new release enables source audio and video to be distributed with complete integrity. As a result, installers can now replicate 1080p video quality that is indistinguishable from source content. Compatible with the complete 2G/2G+ family of HD over IP products, the transmitter also features an HDMI pass-through port for feeding audio to central amplifiers; an integrated stereo audio extractor with programmable audio delay; a 3.5mm RS232 port with integrated null modem for easy integration with all RS232 controlled devices and accessories; support for locking HDMI cables; and an independent CEC over IP CPU with new Pico processor.

With the new BTX Pro Plates and Panel Software, users can design, configure, specify, and order custom wall plates and panels within a matter of minutes. Using drag-and-drop technology, users select wall plates, rack panels, and connector options from an extensive library of manufacturers such as Neutrik and Switchcraft, in addition to BTX’s products. The software’s newest upgrade also includes access to floor box inserts and allows for optional engraving if desired.

Visit http://www.btx.com

NVerzion, a provider of tools for digital broadcasting and television station automation, has released an enhanced version of its widely deployed automation software. Leveraging a variety of powerful technologies and workflow tools, the new software platform dramatically improves the operational efficiency of a broadcaster’s file-based workflow.

Key improvements in the March 2013 software release include the transition to an Oracle MySQL database platform, providing broadcasters with a more reliable, robust, and efficient solution for database communications. The enhanced software also offers enhanced BXF integration for data exchange between traffic and automation systems related to inventory and asset management, program schedule, and record schedules.

Additionally, broadcasters will now have optimised inventory and quality control management; new customisation, functionality, and configuration to the NVerzion GUI; and increased device control. The new release also includes additional products such as NGuide, a tool designed to ensure the integrity of electronic programming guide (EPG) information.

“NVerzion’s latest software release streamlines a broadcaster’s end-to-end file-based workflow through several key advancements, including a new high-performance database communications platform and simplified user interface,” said Philip Reid, director of engineering at NVerzion. “Combined, these improvements will effectively help our customers reduce their capital and operational expenses while delivering a high-quality on-air presentation.”

The March 2013 software release is available now for both new and existing NVerzion customers. NVerzion will demonstrate the new software improvements at the 2013 NAB Show (Booth N4325).

Visit http://www.nverzion.com

Zylight, a manufacturer of innovative LED lighting solutions, will showcase its new F8 LED Fresnel at the 2013 NAB Show (Booth C5446). Available in tungsten (3200K) or daylight (5600K) versions, the compact lighting instrument collapses to less than four inches thick for easy transport and storage.

“When we showed our F8 concept at NAB last year, we received an overwhelmingly positive response,” said Charlie Collias, senior vice president, worldwide sales. “We’ve taken the traditionally hot and bulky Fresnel technology and replaced it with compact LED technology. The F8 delivers all the performance of a traditional Fresnel lighting instrument in a much more portable and energy efficient design.”

Equipped with an eight-inch SCHOTT glass lens, the fully dimmable F8 maintains single shadow traditional Fresnel beam shaping, and offers a patented focusing system for spot and flood operations. Its beam spread is adjustable between 16-70 degrees for even coverage for widescreen HD productions.

The F8 draws only 90 watts but has close to the light output of a traditional 1000-watt Fresnel. While its silent operation makes it ideal for studio use, the F8 is also water resistant (IP54), so it can be used in challenging location conditions. The F8 can be powered by a worldwide AC adapter or standard 14.4V camera battery.

“The F8 is a really versatile, rugged light,” said Joseph Arnao, president. “It’s bright like an HMI but better suited for run-and-gun news ENG applications – you just snap on a battery and go. It’s also a great choice for studios that need to save space and reduce operating costs.”

Visit http://www.zylight.com

Small Tree will showcase its new ThunderNET solution for post-production professionals at NAB 2013 (Booth SL6005). Created to enable post-production pros to take advantage of the increasing processing power available in today’s all-in-one desktop, mini and laptop computers, ThunderNET opens up a whole world of possibilities. Combining high performance I/O capabilities of Thunderbolt with the flexibility of PCIe, ThunderNET provides a cost effective solution to integrate Thunderbolt equipped platforms into high performance storage and data networks.

ThunderNET supports 1 or 10 Gigabit Ethernet connectivity to iMac, Mac Mini, MacBook Pro or MacBook Air computers, providing new levels of network performance and connecting seamlessly to Small Tree’s Ethernet shared storage appliance, GraniteSTOR TITANIUM, or 10 Gigabit Ethernet switches. ThunderNET can also provide additional Gigabit Ethernet connectivity to your current network.

“With their lower cost, compact form factor and increased portability, today’s lineup of Mac computers offer many advantages over traditional desktop systems,” said Corky Seeber, president of Small Tree. “However, these same systems do not provide enough connectivity flexibility for professionals in the creative fields. ThunderNET capitalises on the new Thunderbolt technology to create an affordable and extremely robust solution for the post-production industry.”

Adding network bandwidth to any computer with a Thunderbolt port, ThunderNET offers several options, allowing customers to select the right amount of bandwidth necessary to meet their workflow demands. 
 
Visit http://www.small-tree.com

Orad, a leader in broadcast graphics, announced the debut of its next generation video graphics platform, the HDVG4, at the NAB exhibition (Booth SL5709). Powered by a 64-bit operating system and a native 64-bit rendering engine, the HDVG4 platform is a landmark solution. In addition to supporting all HD and SD formats, HDVG4 offers native support for 3G/1080p signals, with flexible, multiple video output configurations.

“HDVG4 sets new standards in terms of real-time graphics performance and capabilities,” commented Avi Sharir President and CEO of Orad. “The HDVG4 is a flexible platform that supports Orad’s entire range of real-time graphics solutions. For example, the HDVG4 could be configured for up to 8 1080p outputs or up to 16 1080i outputs. This is an ideal setup for video wall presentations, generating an extremely high resolution image from a single box.

“HDVG4 is the 3rd generation of our rendering platform. During the extensive, 3-year R&D period, we paid a lot of attention to our customer’s requirements and addressed them in the design,” adds Sharir. “One such request was to address the growing need to support IP-based workflows. Therefore, in addition to supporting standard SDI signal, we designed the HDVG4 to produce an IP stream output that could be distributed to websites, tablets and other devices.”

Another major feature of the HDVG4 is its multi-channel output configuration. It is common for broadcasters to distribute content in multiple formats and resolutions. The HDVG4 is designed to meet this challenge. For example, a single HDVG4 box can generate 4K signal as well as HD 1080i, SD, and IP stream output, automatically taking into account the different aspect ratios and formats.

Like its predecessor, the HDVG4 is designed to meet the specific needs of the broadcast market. As such it offers a highly stable rendering environment that runs on the Linux operating system. For redundancy, HDVG4 offers hot swappable dual power supply, mechanical and software bypass, and a RAID based system disk, SNMP monitoring and more.

Visit http://www.orad.tv

Sound Devices, experts in portable audio and video products for field production, is taking its field technology into the studio with its PIX 260i Production Video Recorder at the 2013 NAB Show (Booth C2849). Based on Sound Devices’ PIX 240i Recorder, the rack-mounted PIX 260i is a file-based audio/video recorder that replaces tape-based video decks in production and post-production environments. Currently shipping, PIX 260i also offers 32 tracks of audio record/playback as well as control functionality from browser-capable computers and tablets.

The PIX 260i brings the features and tools needed by production companies and broadcasters looking to migrate to file-based recording and playback environments. The PIX 260i records QuickTime files in either Apple ProRes or Avid DNxHD video formats. Files recorded in these intra-frame codecs are ready for editing directly from the recorder in common editing environments, such as Avid, Final Cut Pro, and Adobe Premiere, eliminating time-consuming transferring and transcoding. For colour-critical applications, the PIX 260i supports Apple ProRes 4444 through its 12-bit, 4:4:4 3G-SDI I/O. Users can also play out files from the PIX 260i for real-time applications.

PIX 260i recorders can be controlled from browser-capable computers and tablets. When connected to a data network, transport controls and setup menu controls are available on the Sound Devices PIXNET, which offers IP-addressable control of one or multiple PIX 260i recorders. Users can group multiple units for simultaneous control. Data drives connected to PIX 260i are also accessible on Ethernet-based networks as read-only SMB shares, opening up endless possibilities for file sharing.

Up to four SATA drives can be connected to the PIX 260i simultaneously. For RAID-type redundancy and to eliminate the need for post-record copying when multiple copies are required, users can record to all four drives simultaneously.

In addition to 16 channels of embedded SDI audio and eight channels of HDMI audio, the PIX 260i also accepts eight channels of line-level analogue I/O and eight channels of AES digital audio. Using Dante, the PIX 260i can accept and transmit up to 32 channels of audio over Ethernet.

Like the PIX 220i and PIX 240i, the PIX 260i includes a sophisticated scaler and frame-rate converter. Regardless of the incoming signal, the PIX recorders can record the signal after up-, down- or cross-conversion at the same or a different rate. Hardware-based 3:2 pull-down removal and anamorphic conversion is also available.

Visit http://www.sounddevices.com

SintecMedia, a leading broadcast management software provider, will highlight its expanded presence in the U.S. at the upcoming NAB Show. From Booth N6111, the company will display the wide range of solutions it now offers as a result of the acquisitions of two leading North American media management experts: StorerTV and Argo Systems. Together as SintecMedia, the operation builds television management software solutions for cable and broadcast networks, Pay TV channels, MSOs, digital media purveyors, and station groups of every size.

“SintecMedia offers the only true comprehensive solution for managing media and television businesses over the entire spectrum of the broadcast and media industry,” stated Amotz Yarden, SintecMedia’s CEO. “These acquisitions extend our product line to make us one of the most powerful vendors in the North American and global media business solutions markets. Everyone seeking a better media management solution can now benefit from the strong inter-connections and synergies that OnAir offers with SIMS, Nestor and Medea. We will be sharing this vision at NAB.”

The SintecMedia family begins with OnAir, the all-in-one broadcast management solution that combines traffic, sales, and programming in a single framework to address the issues facing broadcasters and media makers. Joining OnAir are the SIMS, Medea and Nestor products. SIMS provides program and rights management software to the broadcasting industry. Medea handles affiliate and retransmission revenue for networks and station groups, while Nestor manages programming expenses for multichannel operators. Combined, the SintecMedia family offers the first comprehensive solution for managing the business of television.

Amir Lavi, Executive Vice President and head of SintecMedia U.S. sales, stated, “Acquiring these leading industry software companies is an exciting step in our North American strategy and we have added close to 100 new professionals including developers, implementation and support staff to the company’s U.S. team. NAB will be the first major opportunity for the market to  see, up close, all of SintecMedia’s offerings.”

Visit http://www.sintecmedia.com

At NAB 2013 (Booth C1746), Calrec will showcase Hydra2′s ability to interact with third-party control and production automation equipment. To give broadcasters a sense of Hydra2′s potential as a networking solution, Calrec will exhibit its equipment in a scenario akin to how it would be used in an actual production environment.

Demonstrating the Calrec Serial Protocol will be a Ross switcher emulator in conjunction with Ross Overdrive technology, which will allow for visibility into, and third-party control over, a number of Calrec audio console settings such as fader position, PFL and cut control for paths on faders, routing to auxes from faders, output level control for auxes, routing to mains from faders, main output level/fader control, and LB/RB input switching for paths on faders.

The SW-P-08 protocol will incorporate a third-party router panel from LSB’s Virtual Studio Manager (VSM) to demonstrate remote control over input-to-output crosspoint patching. In addition to direct routing of physical inputs to outputs, it can also route to and from a console DSP via Calrec’s Hydra Patchbays.

Calrec will demonstrate Artemis Light, the newest member of its Artemis family of Bluefin2/Hydra2 audio consoles. New for NAB 2013, the Artemis Light introduces a new compact processing rack dedicated to delivering digital signal processing (DSP) and routing capabilities in a 4U enclosure.

Like all Artemis consoles, Artemis Light incorporates Bluefin2 high-density signal processing and Hydra2 networking technologies in the same compact, powerful and scalable control surface used by Artemis Shine and Artemis Beam. Employing the same hardware and software architecture, Artemis Light can be fully integrated with any existing Hydra2 network.

Calrec’s Apollo audio console is also being showcased at the 2013 NAB show. Apollo provides processing power and a control surface with displays, touch screens, and light-emitting knobs that detail function and status. The Calrec Apollo console relies on Bluefin2 to provide resources. Bluefin2 gives Apollo up to 1,020 channel processing paths, 128 program busses, 96 IFB/track outputs, and 48 auxes.

Visit http://www.calrec.com