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September 2014
CCSA CONNECT Independent Cable Operators Annual Conference Also In This Issue BNN Birthday, Access7Mobile, Haivision Lawncast and more
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Healthy mind, healthy body Did you know that going for a walk is a good way to relieve stress? And that good nutrition is fun for kids, too? In Good Shape (fit&gesund), the weekly health magazine on DW, brings viewers all this and more. We cover the latest fitness trends, exciting innovations and effective alternatives to traditional medicine. Include Deutsche Welle (DW) in your channel line-up today for this and other informative shows.
Contact dw-canada@terraterra.ca | T 1. 866. 355. 3566
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www.dw.de
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contents
mediacaster broadband & content
volume 1 number 1 www.mediacastermagazine.com Lee Rickwood EDITOR lrickwood@mediacastermagazine.com James A. Cook SENIOR PUBLISHER (416) 510-6871 jcook@mediacastermagazine.com
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Beverley Richards CREATIVE DIRECTOR Phyllis Wright PRINT PRODUCTION MANAGER (416) 510 - 5101 Gary White PRODUCTION MANAGER (416) 510-6760 Lily Malicdem CUSTOMER SERVICE (416) 442-5600 ext 3547 Anita Madden CIRCULATION MANAGER (416) 442-5600 ext 3596 Alex Papanou VICE-PRESIDENT Bruce Creighton PRESIDENT
EDITORIAL DEADLINE Five weeks before publication date mediacaster is published quarterly, serving Canada’s cable and related industries, by Business Information Group.
4 Software Tools Let Cablecos, Telcos Offer Better Customer Service
6 Seeking Digital Media File Format Interoperability 8
Digital Media Community Joins with Top Broadcast Conference
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Digital Stocks Rising as Specialty Channel BNN Celebrates 15th Anniversary
HEAD OFFICE: 80 Valleybrook Drive, Toronto, Ontario. Canada M3B 2S9 Tel: (416) 442-5600; Toll Free: Canada 1-800-268-7742; U.S.: 1-800-387-0273 Fax: (416) 510-5140 ISSN 1914-217X (Print); ISSN 1923-3493 (Online) www.mediacastermagazine.com
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SUBSCRIPTION RATES: CDA 1yr $40.95 CDA 2yr $63.95 US 1yr $46.95 FOR 1yr $51.95 CDA single copy $8.00 US single copy $10.00 FOR single copy $10.00 Directory = CDA $33.95 US $33.95 FOR $33.95 CDA s/h $8.00 US s/h $10.00 FOR s/h $10.00 (U.S. and foreign in U.S. funds). Canadian subscribers must add HST where necessary. HST registration #809751274RT0001. For Reprints call: 416-510-6871
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11 CCSA Annual Conference Agenda
Copyright © 2014 by Mediacaster Magazine. All rights reserved. The contents of this magazine may not be reproduced in whole or in part without the permission of the Publisher. ®
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New HD Mobile at Access Communications
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IT Managers, Content Creators Streamline Digital Media Workflows
By Paul Chan
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Tools of the Trade
Publications Mail Agreement #40069240 From time to time we make our subscription list available to select companies and organizations whose product or service may interest you. If you do not wish your contact information to be made available, please contact us via one of the following methods: Phone: 1-800-668-2374; Fax: 416-442-2191; E-Mail: privacy officer@businessinformationgroup.ca; Mail to: Privacy Officer-Business Information Group, Suite 80 Valleybrook Drive, Toronto, Ontario, Canada, M3B 2S9
Tanglewood Lawncasts Powered by Haivision Video Streaming Solution
On the cover: Located in the heart of Banff National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, the world famous Fairmont Banff Springs Hotel stands as a landmark in the picturesque alpine town of Banff, Alberta.
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SOFTWARE TOOLS LET CABLECOS, TELCOS OFFER BETTER SUBSCRIBER SERVICE
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s the number of cable, DSL, broadband and fibre connected subscribers continues to grow worldwide, more and more providers are working with new software tools
to manage network bandwidth capabilities, control residential gateways and offer new products to subscribers.
Consumers are warming to more and more over-the-top, online media services like Netflix, and there’s an increasing demand for higher qualities streaming services with the introduction of Ultra HD or 4K media production and distribution options. Telecom and cable providers can also monitor and manage a wide range of subscriber devices and activities using such tools, from amount of bandwidth used to average session time and more. As a result, an almost endless array of customized reports can be generated so operators can maintain and enhance service offerings. That’s the promise embedded in a new product release from Vancouverbased broadband technology management solutions provider Incognito Software, for example. Stephane Bourque, president and CEO of Incognito Software, says software suites such as those offered by Incognito offer an important window into how operators look at their network’s operation, capabilities and future requirements. He describes how Incognito’s recent Auto Configuration Server 2.0 release supports a wide number of access networks, and uses TR-069 for zero-touch provisioning and management of WiMAX networks, DOCSIS gateways, VoIP equipment, Wi Fi access points, and IPTV deployments by both cable and telecom providers. The TR-069 remote control application protocol, for example, can quickly enable a growing number of popular customer service offerings by cable and telco providers, including set-top boxes for IPTV and OTT content delivery, local and-or cloud storage, VoIP, parental controls and Wi-Fi management. The reports generated by such tools help cable and telco companies manage not only their own infrastructure, but the information lets them interact with customers and better manage subscriber relations. From a subscriber standpoint, Incognito’s Auto Configuration Server 2.0 also supports device backup and restore, so operators can automatically 4 www.mediacastermagazine.com
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Stephane Bourque, president and CEO of Incognito Software, the Vancouver, B.C.-based broadband software provisioning and activation solutions provider. replicate settings in a subscriber’s replacement device. With the ability to add a user-friendly online portal, subscribers can now obtain detailed information regarding both their account terms and their existing network devices for an added level of visibility and control. Reporting tools like ACS let operators can see usage stats showing heavy users and usage trends, existing quotas or bandwidth caps, as well as key congestion times or bottleneck nodes on the network. Operators
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Reaching more than 20
MILLION Canadians every month TO DISCUSS AUTHENTICATION FOR DIGITAL DEVICES, PLEASE CONTACT LUC PERREAULT:
lperreault@pelmorex.com
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Distribution network monitoring and management is supported by new software tools for WiMAX networks, DOCSIS gateways, VoIP equipment, Wi Fi access points, and IPTV deployments. see when and how to throttle for heavy or peak use, and they can make adjustments to ensure end user quality of experience as the operator gets maximum efficiency from existing network infrastructure and investment. What’s more, Bourque noted, solutions like Incognito’s can extrapolate from existing data and make predictions about future requirements. “We can help operators with anticipated an projected usage rates and requirement trends,” he described, “and extrapolate out to 18 months what a network should look like an dhow it should function, based on the system’s analysis and calculation.” The system captures and integrates data already available from cable modem terminations systems (CMTS), and its generated reports can have multiple uses, including for billing purposes, customer relations, account management, network operations, engineering, C level analysis and more. Incognito also recently upgraded its Bandwidth Activity Reporter, so
operators can extract and analyze data from multiple network, billing, and customer relationship management sources to provide comprehensive network intelligence, usage reports, and service metrics. The solution acts as a raw IPDR stream collector, data refinement engine, and reporting platform that automatically collects IPDR records from customer equipment to generate usage details from a networkwide perspective and from a per-subscriber perspective, regardless of its DOCSIS version or vendor “Operators must find better and more efficient ways to monitor and measure their networks,” Bourque added, “to not only prioritize their networks based on existing demand, but also to capitalize on new revenue opportunities.” Incognito has offered tools for network provisioning and broadband management since 1999.
Seeking Digital Media File Format Interoperability Digital media equipment manufacturers, broadcast distributors, advertisers & ad agencies, and media industry organizations are among those looking to create greater efficiencies and cost savings in the exchange of file-based digital media content. They’ve come together in a new Joint Task Force (JTF) on File Formats and Media Interoperability, launched by its sponsor groups, including the North American Broadcasters Association (NABA), Advanced Media Workflow Association (AMWA), Society of Motion Picture and Television Engineers (SMPTE), International Association of Broadcast Manufacturers (IABM), American Association of Advertising Agencies (4A’s), and Association of National Advertisers (ANA). The European Broadcasting Union (EBU) is participating as an observer. The group’s initial focus will be to gather and analyze requirements for a machine-generated and readable file interchange and delivery 6 www.mediacastermagazine.com
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specification — including standardized and common structured metadata — for the professional media industry. Use case examples include promo, spot, and program delivery from a provider to a broadcaster. “The JTF represents a diverse group of sponsor organizations with an extensive global reach, and together we will gather and analyze information not only about user requirements, but also about current standards and specifications,” said Clyde Smith, Senior VP of New Technology, Fox Networks and a member of the NABA Technical Committee that initiated the creation of the group. “With this information we can rationalize the complexity of the current media landscape and make useful process and technology recommendations that improve workflow interoperability while reducing the attendant costs of file-based operations.” In one of its initial actions, the JTF has published a survey designed to collect data on user requirements. Open to any member of the
media industry, the survey asks participants to create a one-sentence “user story” by identifying the nature of their work, the specific function they seek, and the business value that would be provided by that function. “The work of this JTF is critical to eliminate costly, time-consuming steps and to adopt new automated processes in the media and entertainment supply chain. Together, the work advances, efficient operations, and interoperability create the foundation for improved audience measurement,” said Bob Liodice, president and CEO of the ANA. Other JTF activities will include the collection of data on existing products for transcode, transform, and file QC, and their ability to be driven by data from UML, XML, API, script, and other machine-to-machine communication mechanisms. In addition to analyzing and publishing this data within a formal report, the JTF will analyze the data in terms of current, planned, and unplanned standards activities and publish recommendations for future activities.
September 2014
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This November on APTN
Longmire
Mohawk Girls
Cashing In
Blackstone
Arctic Air
This fall APTN will air new seasons of award winning programs including Blackstone, Arctic Air, Cashing In and Longmire. Plus, don’t miss the highly anticipated Mohawk Girls world premiere.
www.aptn.ca Aboriginal Peoples Television Network Réseau de télévision des peuples autochtones
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Client: Aboriginal Peoples Television Network • Publication: Mediacaster Magazine Creation Date: 08/18/14• Modified Date: 20/08/2014/1:50 PM
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industry news
Digital Media Community Joins with Top Broadcast Conference The converging worlds of new media and traditional broadcast are now side-by-side. That’s the view from Las Vegas, where the largest North American broadcast TV and radio industry conference will now include New Media Expo, the digital media eco-system event that covers content creation, distribution and monetization
topics with bleeding-edge techniques employed by social media marketers, bloggers, podcasters, Web TV producers and interactive storytellers. Building on the success of last year’s New Media Lounge at the 2014 NAB Show, New Media Expo (NMX) and the National Association of Broadcasters (NAB) have agreed to expand their collaboration.
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The Nation’s Premiere College Sports Network 40 Football Games 135+ Men’s Basketball Games 450+ LIVE Events Emmy-Nominated Original Programming Available on computers, tablets and smartphones via BTN2Go
WWW.BTN.COM 8 www.mediacastermagazine.com
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“We are delighted that New Media Expo will be collocating with the NAB Show in 2015,” said Chris Brown, executive vice president, Conventions and Business Operations at NAB. “The world of media continues to evolve rapidly, and an entirely new video ecosystem has emerged on the Web – an increasingly important ecosystem that NMX serves well. Bringing that audience together with the NAB Show audience promises to drive tremendous synergy.” “We believed this co-location was inevitable for years now so we are beyond excited to be side-by-side with the NAB Show,” added Rick Calvert, NMX CEO and co-founder. “The Media Revolution is happening and this is just the latest sign of the convergence of new and traditional media. There are so many exhibitors, services and educational sessions our community can benefit from at NAB Show.” New Media Expo features some of the most recognized bloggers, podcasters, Web TV content creators, and social media visionaries during more than one hundred educational sessions, as well as a traditional tradeshow. In addition, New Media Expo will facilitate its popular Speed Networking sessions at NAB Show, a non-traditional method of introducing content creators and brands during a series of one-on-one meetings to discuss how they can collaborate and partner together. NMX will co-locate its entire event and introduce tens of thousands of new media content creators and disruptive businesses to the NAB Show, April 13 - 16, 2015. New Media Expo was born in 2006. Originally called BlogWorld & New Media Expo, the event name was changed in 2011 to New Media Expo; it uses the popular hashtag #NMX on social networks like Twitter, Instagram and Facebook. New Media Expo was co-founded by trade show industry veterans and media evangelists Rick Calvert and Dave Cynkin. With more than 98,000 attendees from 150 countries and 1,600+ exhibitors, NAB Show is the ultimate marketplace for digital media and entertainment. From creation to consumption, across multiple platforms and countless nationalities, NAB Show is home to the solutions that transcend traditional broadcasting and embrace content delivery to new screens in new ways. The National Association of Broadcasters is the premier broadcast advocacy association, seeking to advance radio and television interests in legislative, regulatory and public affairs.
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Digital Stocks Rising as Specialty Channel BNN Celebrates
15th ANNIVERSARY
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anada’s 24-hour all business and financial news Cat A cable and satellite specialty channel celebrated its 15th anniversary this month, but as much as the channel had planned its on-air retrospective, it is clearly focused on expanding, enhancing and digitizing its media content and delivery platforms. “BNN is a mainstay in thousands of homes and offices across the country, with one of the most-informed and engaged audiences in Canada,” said Grant Ellis, General Manager, BNN. “Our growing online and radio presence is expanding that reach even further.” Ellis told Mediacaster Magazine prior to the anniversary festivities that the station’s digital strategy is an active and forward-looking one, built to serve the “extraordinarily active” and digitally-savvy segments of its audience. “Digital in the best way for people to learn about investment,” he said assuredly. “Nothing else comes close. If you want to go deeper on a topic, in order to buy and sell a stock, or plan for your retirement, you need a method of discovery, a way to make those decisions that only interactive can provide.” In addition to its specialty channel programming and expansive website, BNN content airs live every weekday on SiriusXM radio channel; video streams are available from BNN through its partnership with video streaming service provider NeuLion, and now, through the recently released mobile app, BNN GO.
BNN GO, a new mobile appplication for iOS and leading edge of a major digital push at the Bell
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Ellis noted that continued development and new features will be added to both the app and the website going forward. It’s part of what Ellis called “the biggest digital push in our history.” He could not reveal the details, but noted that more interactivity, more data, and particularly more access to video would be very important to the station’s continued success. “Video is at the core of what we do; that’s what we have over the competition,” he said. “No one does video the way we do, thanks to the access and resources we have available here.” Having introduced a new and more functional video player, Ellis said his team is well aware that even those “data junkies” want to see business leaders speak for themselves: “They want to be able to call up CEO interview, see what was said five months ago and five minutes ago. The audience wants to hear a CEO respond to questions in real-time, see their body language and hear their passion for their company.” Launched on Sept. 1, 1999, BNN was originally known as Report on Business Television (ROBTv), and was associated with The Globe and Mail’s financial section. It launched from the facilities at 720 King St. West, but BNN moved in December 2010 to Bell Media’s flagship HQ office and production complex at 299 Queen St. West in downtown Toronto. New studio facilities were unveiled at that time, with back-end support that includes both highly wired network infrastructure, along with experienced IT and production staff. Ellis describes himself as “a Day One’r” but his term at BNN was interrupted by a stint with the Financial Post; he returned to the specialty channel just this past May. Despite its longevity, Ellis says the BNN style is much like a business start-up: versatility, flexibility and raw energy drive his team. The old journalism mentality of just writing stories is long gone, replaced by new multi-platform sensibilities that are based on good story-telling, while taking advantage of the nature of the delivery platform. “News is always the sharpest point, and it opens up the broadest audience,” he says. How the audience reacts or interacts from there is based on a lot of factors – human interest, demographics, business requirements, and technocomfort levels. BNN sees its digital strategy as empowering the viewer to decide: they may not want to be taken to the next story; they may want to drill down on the story that was just presented, and Android devices, is on the use the digital discovery process to garner the Media specialty service. information they really need. September 2014
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Tanglewood Lawncasts Powered by Haivision Video Streaming Solutions n interactive, front row experience is being offered to mobile device users at one of the world’s most renowned classical concert settings. No matter where they sit, patrons with a compatible smartphone or tablet can get video streams with additional camera angles, supplementary information and more. Montreal-based video technology company Haivision is working with the Boston Symphony Orchestra to deliver an enhanced mobile viewing experience at Tanglewood, the Orchestra’s outdoor summer home. While the partners have worked together on this specific musical performance application, it is clear that similar solutoins can be applied in many live event settings, such as sports and gaming, corporate and education, theatrical and concert events, and more. In the Tanglewood pilot program, dubbed the Tanglewood Lawncast, participating audience members are offered access to exclusive digital media content – including program notes, performer interviews, and live camera feeds of the concert – via their iOS and Android smartphones and tablets. Users can select from multiple camera angles, with views described as Conductor, Percussionist, Orchestral Full View or Soloist; archived content is also available. The camera views are part of a multi-camera broadcast of concerts that is projected onto large video screens located inside and on top of the concert hall. Launched as a pilot program earlier this summer, the Lawncast initiative has now been expanded and additional content types were delivered to some 400 participating audience members at two recent concerts staged last month. Lawncast was designed and implemented by engineering, programming and installation A/V company North American Theatrix using Haivision streaming media technology, in particular, its enterprise-grade Makito X encoders. The Haivision solution is used to deliver HD video to mobile audiences in under a second, program coordinators describe. Each single rack-mountable encoder can deliver up to 12 channels of High Profile HD
A view from the lawn as Andris Nelson conducts the Boston Symphony at the Tanglewood 75th Anniversary Gala this past summer. 10 www.mediacastermagazine.com
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Photos by Marco Borggreve.
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Interactive mediacasts of the concerts at Tanglewood can be delivered using Canadian technology; supplemental content includes extra camera angles. 1080p60, and models single or dual channel SDI and DVI connectivity. Audiences can watch the video streams on their iPads, iPhones and Android devices using Haivision’s InStream Mobile, a free media player that can be used to deliver high performance media experiences to multiple simultaneous mobile viewers without a dedicated streaming server. Haivision’s Makito X HD encoders support up to 1080p60 resolution with extremely low end-to-end latency. InStream Mobile brings that, low-latency HD video to iPads, iPhones, and Android devices.
Haivision’s Makito X HD encoders support up to 1080p60 video resolution. “With Lawncast, the Boston Symphony Orchestra’s goal is to give audience members more ways to engage and see the orchestra up close,” said Bernadette Horgan, Director of Public Relations. “Haivision video streaming solutions are helping us deliver this unique program so audiences can have an enhanced concert experience using their mobile devices.” Patrons participating in the Tanglewood Lawncast pilot program have access to multiple camera feeds—including one focusing on the conductor and another on an alternate view of the orchestra—that are part of the multi-camera shoot used to create the concert broadcast that is projected onto the large video screens located inside and on top of the concert hall. The pilot program takes place on a specifically designated area of the lawn; only those seated in the specified area can access the enhanced content. Tanglewood is the Boston Symphony Orchestra’s summer home, with an annual average attendance of more than 300,000 visitors. As well as hosting scheduled concerts and performances, Tanglewood is also the home of the Tanglewood Music Center, an advanced training facility for young professional musicians.
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SATURDAY, September 20th 12:00 pm 4:00 pm 6:30 pm 10:00 pm SUNDAY, September 21st 1:00 pm 3:45 pm
3:45 pm 4:00 pm
4:00 pm 5:00 pm
7:00 pm
9:30 pm
MONDAY, September 22nd 7:00 am
8:00 am
8:00 am 12:00 pm 12:30 pm 1:30 pm 1:45 pm
2:30 pm
2:30 pm
2:45 pm
2:45 pm -
4:30 pm
6:00 pm 6:45 pm 6:45 pm 10:00 pm
TUESDAY, September 23rd 9:15 am 9:30 am 10:00 am 4:00 pm 1:00 pm
4:00 pm
Updated: August 22, 2014
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Board Meeting (CCSA Board Members) .............................................................................. Angus Room Board Dinner (CCSA Board Members) ......................................................................................... Offsite
Interactive Workshops and Sponsor Promos (CCSA Members) ................................... Cascade Ballroom Introductory Speaker Regulatory 101 Government Relations 101 I ♥ Local Cable: A Case Study Break Shareholders Meeting (CCSA Shareholders) .............................................................. Cascade Ballroom Board Meeting (CCSA Board Members) ....................................................................................... Angus Room ‘Wild West Welcome’ (All Delegates).................................................................................... Mountainview BBQ (offsite) (All Delegates)
Hot Breakfast................................................................................................................ Cascade Ballroom Tom Pentefountas, Vice-Chairman, Broadcasting, CRTC Showcase............................................................................................................. Alhambra Room Lunch ................................................................................................................ Cascade Ballroom The Future of Video Laura Martin, CFA, Needham & Company, LLC ....................................................... Van Horne Ballroom Break Interactive Session: Beyond Customer Care: Making a Connection ................................................... Van Horne Ballroom Connect with Cocktails .................................................................................................. Riverview Lounge Board of Directors’ Hosted Dinner................................................................................ Cascade Ballroom I ♥ Local Cable Awards Member/Supplier of the Year Awards James Mullinger, Comedian (Optional) Transportation to Golf........................................................................Fairmont Banff Springs Golf Course Golf (includes boxed lunch, reception with hors d’oeuvres / beverages, and awards/draws) or Bow River Float Trip (includes tour guide, snack, followed by reception with golfers providing hors d’oeuvres / beverages, and draws) September 2014
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CCSA Event Packages: Tuesday, September 23rd, 2014 Bow River Float Trip : $200 + tax 1:00 pm – 4:00 pm
This float trip is both a unique and peaceful way to experience the Canadian Rockies. Board a large oar-powered rubber raft and be launched off for a leisurely float down the Bow River. The qualified river guide has a wealth of interesting stories and bits of folklore to share with everyone. The luxury motorcoach will be waiting at the take-out point for the return transfer to the Banff Springs golf Course to join the golfers for a reception featuring hors d’oeuvres, beverages and a chance to be entered into a draw. Bow River Float Trip includes: •
Transportation in private luxury motorcoach
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Professional tour director
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Raft Float
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Snack (water, fruit & locally made granola bar)
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Reception following with golfers - including entry in a draw
Recommended attire: Sandals, comfortable clothes (no jeans), warm clothes/jacket in case of inclement weather and a daypack to carry personal items.
Golf Day Package: $250 + tax (Club rentals are $68 + tax) Fairmont Banff Springs Golf Course 10:00 am – 4:00 pm The Fairmont Banff Springs Golf Course in Alberta is a captivating and challenging layout set in the heart of Canada’s Rocky Mountains. The course winds along the Bow River under the snow-capped peaks of Sulphur Mountain and Mount Rundle. Golf Day Package includes: • Scheduled return transportation from Fairmont Banff Springs Hotel to the course • Green Fees, Golf cart, Bar cart • Box lunch on course • Reception following with hors d’oeuvres and beverages *Delegates participating in the Bow River Float Trip will join the golfers for the reception. *The club rental fee includes a souvenir tee bag with 2 logoed golf balls
12 www.mediacastermagazine.com
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CCSA Spousal/Guest Package Option A: CCSA Evening Social activities + Monday excursion Cost: $300 + tax Option A package includes: •
Sunday, Sept. 21st Evening Social – ‘Wild West Themed Party’ (7:00 – 9:30 pm)
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Monday, Sept. 22nd Canadian Rockies Cave & Basin / Hot Springs Soak Excursion (11:00 am - 4:00 pm)
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Monday, Sept. 22nd Connect with Cocktails, Awards Dinner & Entertainment (6:45 pm - 10:00 pm)
The history of Banff and Canada’s National Park’s system starts at the Cave and Basin in Banff! A visit to this national historic museum will be filled with discovery and how the hot springs affected the preservation of Canada’s natural attractions. No trip to the Cave & Basin is complete without a visit to the natural cave and hot spring itself. A trip to Banff Upper Hot Springs for a mineral soak is included to enjoy the warm mineral waters like the early explorers. Enjoy a relaxation massage at Pleiades Massage and Spa while there.
Option B: CCSA Evening Social activities Cost: $150 + tax Option B package includes: •
Sunday, Sept. 21st Evening Social – ‘Wild West Themed Party’ (7:00 – 9:30 pm)
•
Monday, Sept. 22nd Connect with Cocktails, Awards Dinner & Entertainment (6:45 pm - 10:00 pm)
Please note: Spouses and Guests are also welcome to register for the Tuesday Golf/Bow River Float packages. Register for the spousal events and Golf/Bow River Float packages via the registration link on the CCSA website
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September 2014
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NEW HD MOBILE AT ACCESS COMMUNICATIONS
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Saskatchewan’s Accces Communications acquired and refurbished a multi-camera HD mobile for its community programming and production efforts.
ong before the North American Indigenous Games staged their Opening Ceremonies in Regina this summer, community television producers at Saskatchewan’s Access Communications Co-operative were planning their media coverage, and seeking out a new HD production vehicle to support some rather ambitious plans. The non-profit co-operative cable and communications service provider acquired its new mobile, with live and location production capabilities that Production Manager Wade Peterson says equal that of TSN or Sportsnet. In fact, ‘the big boys’ have already made some use of the mobile’s capabilities, and Peterson added that other broadcasters have made inquiries as to its availability, as well. “We’re always trying to move forward, both in the content we provide and in the technology we use to present it,” Peterson said. “This mobile 14 www.mediacastermagazine.com
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allows us to bring a level of detail and depth that is rarely seen in community programming, as well as giving us the flexibility to do so in every corner of the province.” The truck is as good as brand new, Peterson added, in that it was acquired from a U.S. based production company that, due to an expanding contract, needed an even bigger truck. That company only used the vehicle five or six times, before Peterson got a hold of it. The mobile is a complete broadcast station capable of video editing, creating graphics, real-time replay, and audio editing, he noted, with some six or seven crew members working inside during a live shoot, and as many as ten or more –depending on camera configuration – working outside. The truck has six triad connections, but another 32 BNC ports. The 28’ long by 12’ high mobile was on location throughout the
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Inside the mobile is a complete broadcast production environment, with tools for video editing, creating graphics, real-time replay and audio editing, with some six or seven crew members working inside during a live shoot. Indigenous Games from July 20th to July 27th, providing wall-to-wall coverage in full HD of the sporting event; Access partnered with specialty channel operator APTN on expanded coverage of the Opening and Closing Ceremonies. Peterson, reached by Mediacaster Magazine as his crew set up to cover the lacrosse competition, noted that the mobile is also used to cover other local events, but despite the early sporting focus, he said that the truck will be used on all kinds of productions, from dance recitals to charitable fundraisers and more. Not only did Access7 cover the Aboriginal Games, but it also made the feed available to viewers online via the Web, as well as to viewers served by other community channels though Canada and the U.S. Access made the coverage available to members of the Canadian Cable Systems Alliance, CCSA, as well as the NCTC, he noted. “Access’ coverage of this event and free sharing of the content it creates is a wonderful example of how independent cable operators, working together, can support Canadians as creators, citizens and consumers,” said Chris Edwards, VP, Corporate & Regulatory Affairs, CCSA, at the time. “We would like to thank Access Communications for sharing this initiative with us and for making it possible for CCSA members across the country to exhibit this major cultural event to their customers.” Satellite time was booked for the potential cable distribution, with both HD and SD feeds available as required. Online, Peterson said, viewers have logged in from as many as eleven different countries, putting a whole new spin on the concept of ‘community channel’.
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A spin he is proud to take. “We hope we are laying the groundwork here, and that this kind of coverage will continue for these Games, and other community events. It’s a huge commitment on the part of Access Communications,” and as he added with some sense of relief, “but the Games only happen once every four years.” But in between those Games, much happens at the community level that will be part of his production duties. “Community channels produce thousands of hours of unique, local programming each year; programs that evoke and capture the spirit of each individual community,” said Jim Deane, President and CEO of Access Communications. “Through our Access7 community channels, we are proud to provide a local voice to the people of the communities that we serve.” Access Communications is a 100% Saskatchewan-owned non-profit co-operative that is committed to providing exceptional communications and entertainment services, and offering viewers a variety of local perspectives and experiences. The company reports that it reinvests 100% of its earnings into the 220 communities it serves. CCSA represents more than 115 independent cable, telco and IPTV companies that serve over 700,000 Canadians in communities in all provinces and territories, including many isolated communities across the North. CCSA membership includes television distribution companies operated by many small, family-owned companies, a large number of First Nations and more than 20 not-for-profit community cooperatives. September 2014
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Increasing demands for higher resolution production quality and content delivery to multiple devices mean producers must have even more storage capacity and media flexibility.
IT Managers, Content Creators Streamline Digital Media Workflows By Paul Chan
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igital media content, driven by new high resolution formats, renthem to their local workstation for editing, and then upload them back to dered special effects files and the need for content delivery to the shared storage device for further collaboration. multiple devices, is challenging the capacity and performance level IT managers will appreciate how storage arrays, when part of a conof many data and media processing systems. solidated network solution, can boost system Due to the growing popularity and data demands performance, and offer more visibility and control “The problem with discrete of 4K video (and even 8K now), storage considerdigital media assets. drives is that each one is a single of important ations are becoming more important because of The Alberta branch of Mediaco, a technical increasing demands to manage, centralize and point of failure,” Dyck described, media company specializing in live events, is just share digital media assets. “and there is no efficient way to one company seeing major growth in the amount So emerging technologies like private clouds are of data it needed to handle, and the company’s IT back up all of your data.” being used to provide expanded storage resources manager, Ron Dyck, realized it was time to adopt across shared production workflows. For instance, a longer term strategy. highly available storage platforms (SAN and NAS devices) are being As with many of the company’s peers, data was stored on external deployed in production studios to create a fault-tolerant shared storage drives, kept in a cabinet and moved from workstation to workstation. pool from which all collaborators can access digital media files, download Dyck’s first concern was the risk of data loss. Hard drives are particularly
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production post-production
New storage arrays make can make all needed digital media assets available on a multi-user network, and they can be accessed and controlled through a single interface.
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vulnerable because they can be easily dropped, lost, stolen, or damaged by static electricity, and the inconvenience of backing up collection of separate devices causes back-ups to fall between the cracks. “The problem with discrete drives is that each one is a single point of failure,” Dyck described, “and there is no efficient way to back up all of your data.” Dyck was also concerned that there was no way to assign access rights to individual files. Once somebody had a key to the cabinet where the drives were stored, they could potentially access any data in the company. After considering several possibilities, including connecting the existing drives through a drive bay, and networking storage to individual workstations, Dyck saw the sensible answer was to migrate to a centralized storage solution that could accommodate all of the company’s data storage problems. The company then decided on two Storageflex 3945N-24 NAS central storage arrays – one for the Calgary office and the other for Edmonton. Essentially, this made all media assets available on the network and allowed Mediaco to move all of their data to an integrated storage system that could be accessed and controlled through a single interface. The first storage system was 48TB; the second one purchased is 30TB, and both have room for expansion. Each drive in the unit is a 3 TB 7,200 RPM SATA600; they’re set up in a RAID6 hardware configuration. The arrays immediately transformed the way Mediaco Alberta handled its media assets, and key improvements were realized, like removing the single point of failure for discrete drives are replacing it with the array’s RAID fault protection system. Files are nevertheless easy to find using the familiar Windows file tree, and permissions can be assigned by the administrator using the Windows Storage Server. The admin can also set up automated backups for all data on the centralized system. Mediaco’s editors and producers also noticed the improvements immediately. With as many as five people able to work on a “deadline due” project simultaneously, the new centralized storage system “blows away” the performance that creative workers were used to with the older system, Dyck added. As well, file transfers that took hours now take minutes. This means that an editor can quickly copy a completed project into the archive section without having to keep an eye on the task for a large part of the day. It is also much easier to cut and paste file segments – a practice that is becoming much more common for the business. For example, excerpts from a training video might be included in a webinar, podcast, or web promotion. A CEO’s speech at a conference might be excerpted for presentation at a charity event. Or a Mediaco account manager might bring a customer employee up to speed by showing clips from the company’s previous annual meeting. Mediaco’s creative workers are now saving hours each week that might have otherwise been spent waiting for files to copy over, going back and forth between separate physical drives, searching for files, or setting up backups on an individual basis. For broadcast companies with growing data repositories, the centralized array is a powerful tool that enables media asset data to be stored in hierarchical fashion according to frequency of use. For example, ongoing projects can be stored in quickly-accessible hard drives, long term files unlikely to be accessed within a 30-day window, can be stored on inexpensive optical storage with slower access speeds, and items that fall in between can be stored on drives with medium access speeds. The array can also segment data according to its sensitivity. By making data management seamless, storage systems let users take good care of all the valuable digital assets found in busy media production environments.
Paul Chan is president of Storageflex Inc., a Markham, ON-based manufacturer of network data storage solutions. September 2014
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tools of the trade HARTING’S NEW STRAIGHT AND ANGLED COMPONENTS
HARTING har-speed M12 X-Code Connectors HARTING has introduced new M12 X-Code components – straight and angled PCB receptacles and M12-to-RJ45 panel adaptors as well as an M12 gender changer – for its har-speed M12 X-Code connectors. Like the har-speed M12 X-code itself, these new parts have been developed to facilitate 6A Gigabit Ethernet installations increasingly common in machine and plant automation. The new straight and angled receptacles and adaptors meet the requirements for Cat 6A and Performance Class EA, with maximum transfer rates for 1/10 Gigabits. A mounting bracket also is offered for the M12 X-Code gender changer. HARTING created the har-speed M12 X-Code connector to meet the continuing growth in demand for eight-wire connectors to manage data from Cat. 6A processes, like the optical technologies – cameras and inspection systems – monitoring high-speed production lines. HARTING’s har-speed X-Code connectors and components make it possible to deploy an M12-cabling system conforming to IEC/PAS 61076-2-109. The X-code connectors’ mating face shields the connector area and the coding of the mating face, while ensuring fault-free plugging with other 8-pole M12 connectors. A connection error with other 8-pole M12s is impossible. The har-speed M12 lineup features standard and slim design connectors, the latter with a 16.5 mm external diameter for high density integration on devices where space is at a premium. It also offers over-molded variants in different lengths as well as a crimp connector for on-site assembly. In related news, Harting recently named veteran sales executive Claude Langlois to head up its expanding sales and customer engagement for the Canadian market. As sales director, Langlois will be based at Harting Canada headquarters in suburban St-Laurent, QC. 18 www.mediacastermagazine.com
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LIVE-LINK MINI REMOTE CAMERA INTERFACE SYSTEM The Live-Link Mini Remote Camera Interface picture data, to the associated Live-Link Mini System offers one SDI path in each directruck-end unit. tion, supporting a wide range of SD-, HD-, The Live-Link Mini truck-end units come and 3G video signals. in two flavors to accommodate different misThe system features integrated party- sions. The standard version of the truck-end line and 4-wire intercom support, line-level unit is powered by 12 volts DC and relies on “dry” and powered “wet” talent cueing (IFB) and is fully compatible with SMPTE standards. The camera and truck units interconnect through one single-mode fiber for quick and reliable field deployment, and incorporate standard optical, video and audio connectors for maximum flexibility. The camera-end unit features an integrated battery mount, The Mini is the newest system from Live-Link. which allows for the use of a broadcast-standard rechargeable battery. the SDI output to provide the on-air audio Unlike other systems from the Live-Link to the connected equipment. The advanced family, the Live-Link Mini’s camera-end unit version of the truck-end unit offers flexibildoes not provide microphone- or line-level ity in powering and adds analog audio deinputs for supporting on-air audio signals. embed outputs. A source of either AC mains Instead, it relies on the associated camera voltage or 12 volts DC can provide power for or camcorder to embed on-air audio signals the advanced version. into audio group 1 of the source SDI. This The advanced version de-embeds the minimizes the camera-end unit’s size, reducfour channels associated with group 1, cones cost and simplifies setup. The embedded verts them to analog and presents them on audio signals are transported, along with four balanced line-level outputs.
DIGITAL SPUTNIK LIGHTS UP AERIAL SHOOTS Digital Sputnik’s drone mountable DS LED Heli System, developed in co-operation with Intuitive Aerial’s Black Armored Drone, supports new aerial lighting capabilities. The small drone is able to carry a lightweight light configuration, with output equivalent of 1.5kW HMI The system is controllable over Wi-Fi using an iOS app. Based on the DS LED system, the lightheads are universal and compatible with the DS LED System and DS Mürsik Frames. The DS LED system offers high output with tuneable colour temperature from 1500K - 10000K, with the option to adjust tint (+/- green). The DS LED lighting system offers an array of features, including power supply for as many as three LED light modules controllable separately or in groups; three LED light modules with RGBW-power LEDs or Daylight White LEDs; as well as a variety of lenses and diffusers for shaping light output.
Digital Sputnik’s drone mountable LED lighting system
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tools of the trade COBHAM’S MIMO DELIVER HIGH DATA RATES Cobham Antenna is introducing a new Multiple In Multiple Out (MIMO) antenna range, with almost omni, directional, sector, hemi-omni or blade omni antennas, all with at least two connectors. Cobham’s MIMO range makes use of polarisation diversity; vertical and horizontal (V+H), ±45° dual-slant or even right and left hand circular polarisations. The antennas contain two orthogonally polarised elements which are interleaved within a single aperture. This avoids the need for multiple units placed a number of wavelengths apart and results in compact antenna units which are highly efficient, compared with two separate antennas contained within one housing. With demands for data rates, speed and throughput increasing rapidly, MIMO antennas are now becoming fundamental elements of communication networks. Anticipating these changing requirements Cobham has developed this wide range of MIMO antennas to suit many applications and markets including commercial, military and security.
Cobham’s Multiple In Multiple Out (MIMO) Antennas MIMO systems take advantage of multipath transmissions by combining the various signals received at different parts of the receive antennas. MIMO has become an important part of modern and efficient wireless communication and helps to minimise the risk of drop out due to a weak RF signal, especially in non-line-of-sight (NLOS) scenarios.
NEWTEK, MUSHROOM DEVELOP BONDED STREAMING SERVICES Mushroom Networks is working with the NewTek Developer Network to integrate its Broadband Bonding technology into NewTek’s line of TriCaster multi-camera live video production systems. Broadband Bonding aggregates up to eight 3G/4G cellular data cards into a single high-speed live streaming connection anywhere cell service is available TriCaster 40 systems plug directly into the Mushroom Streamer 4000, for example, without any loss of TriCaster’s advanced production features. Users can seamlessly operate the two products without the need for any involved configuration for production and delivery of live streamed video content. Streamer utilizes bonding technology optimized to stream video to Web via aggregated 3G/4G wireless NewTek TriCaster live production systems integrate with bonded data cards. Webcasters can plug in cellular solutions from Mushroom Networks. the encoded video and audio feed from their encoder or video, add the USB modem cellular air cards to the Streamer, and begin streaming high-resolution and high frame rate video to the Web.
MULTI-DEVICE NETWORK MONITOR FOR CABLE OPERATORS Zanaware Technologies’ new Device View Manager (DVM) is a self-contained, multi-device, probelike system for the real-time monitoring of devices throughout their entire video network. The DVM provides video operators a one-stop shop for monitoring the operational health of every network device, via continuous configuration interrogation, SNMP monitoring, syslogs and data traps. Through continuous QAM and stat-mux analysis, a single DVM unit does the work of many network probes installed at the outputs of dozens of devices. With built-in auto detection of new devices, DVM dynamically updates operators’ network monitoring capabilities with out intervention. The DVM’s advanced network monitoring includes a ‘Live View” feature, so operators can view each outbound program stream, to check for tiling, macroblocking, or other issues. The program stream is transcoded to MPEG4 (H.264) for easier, lower-bandwidth transmission over larger or slower networks, the manufacturer describes.
STARLITEHD CALLS IN 3G-SDI FIELD MONITOR
Transvideo has added a 3D SDI HD field unit to its line-up of professional monitors and display devices. French monitor company Transvideo has launched a new concept on-board field monitor, StarliteHD. The portable system matches up with new compact camera systems, with its small 5” HD OLED touch screen monitor, about the size of a smartphone and weighing 190 grams. The housing is machined in avionics aluminium. The 3G-SDI field monitor includes built-in high resolution waveform monitor and a precision vectorscope, the manufacturer describes, while an embedded recorder delivers dailies in H.264 on to SD cards. Details on a line of planned accessories, from battery support to detachable sun hood and more, are still to come from the manufacturer.
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tools of the trade
NO PC NEEDED FOR ATHORING, DUPLICATION AND RECORDING TO DISC WITH JVC DECKS JVC Professional has introduced two new models to its line of professional Blu-ray/hard disc drive combo decks. The SR-HD1350US and SR-HD1700US can create Blu-ray or DVDs directly from live video inputs or from video files stored on builtin hard drives, without a PC. With up to 6x dubbing speed with BD-R discs, additional features include the ability to pause during direct-to-disc recording, record directly to DVD in DVD-Video format, and create BDMV and BDAV discs from live sources.
One of two new JVC Recordable Blu-Ray Combo Disc Models The units support BD-R or BD-RE (erasable) Blu-ray discs, as well as DVD-R (SL/ DL) or DVD-RW DVDs. Unprotected DVD and Blu-ray discs can be easily duplicated as well. Authored discs can be produced with autostart or repeat playback for retail point-of-sale displays and other applications. Both decks feature a variety of inputs for compatibility with current and legacy equipment, including composite, S-Video and iLink (IEEE-1394) interfaces, as well as an SD/ SDHC media card slot (SDXC memory cards can be read via a USB card reader). HDMI and other outputs provide flexible monitoring options. The SR-HD1350US includes a 320 GB hard drive, while the SR-HD1700US has a 500 GB hard drive. The SR-HD1700US also offers additional features, including the ability to transfer NLE footage via LAN, compatibility with .MOV or .MXF files up to 35 Mbps created with JVC ProHD camcorders, and external control via LAN or RS-232C.
PLAYBOX MULTI-CHANNEL INGEST SERVER PlayBox Technology has introduced its new CaptureBox PRO for capture of multiple channels of HD or SD content from a SDI and IP sources. CaptureBox PRO can handle a wide range of input signals, accepting HD/SD SDI, analogue sources and MPEG transport streams. All four video sources can be monitored on a single screen and controlled via a new streamlined user interface. Audio levels can be monitored as loudness/true-peak displays and adjusted when required. The PlayBox Technology’s new CaptureBox PRO ingested materials are available for playback seconds after ingest commences. The CaptureBox PRO feature set also includes capture list import from third-party traffic systems, support for CEA-608/708 closed-captioning and automated VTR control via RS-422 with batchcapture listing.
PACKETV IPTV VIDEO NETWORK AND ASSET MANAGEMENT SOLUTION Visionary Solutions is shipping its PackeTV IP their budget permits. video network and asset management solution Through an intuitive, Web-based user interfor on-demand delivery of live and recorded video, face, administrators can dynamically create and with support for multiple screens and networks. PackeTV supports a variety of applications from corporate communication to video monitoring, training, and distance learning to legacy cable system replacement with TV over IP. HD and SD, MPEG-2/H.264 video content can be delivered to TVs, set-top boxes (STBs), PCs, tablets, smartphones, and other IP-connected devices across a Visionary Solutions’ IP Video Network and wide range of networks, includAsset Management Solution ing LAN, WAN, Wi-Fi, cellular, and public Internet. manage video assets for distribution across any Its open-standard solution is compatible with type of network. Video assets are fully protected a wide range of equipment, including VSI encodvia AES 256/128-bit encryption, and access can ers and decoders, and features the same modube controlled right down to the individual user lar architecture as the encoder and decoder and group level through seamless integration product lines allowing customers to upgrade as with Microsoft Active Directory.
FLOVEL HIGH SENSITIVITY CAMERA FOR-A’s Flovel Company has unveiled a new ultra high sensitivity HD camera. The Flovel FZ-B3 camera with HbCMOS sensor technology, is rated with a low-light sensitivity of 0.003. Its three CMOS colour image sensors, with some 1.32 megapixels megapixels (effective rating) enables operators to capture images with low noise at high sensitivity. The compact camera records in 1080i 20 www.mediacastermagazine.com
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(59.94Hz or 50Hz) and 720p (59.94Hz or 50Hz) HD-SDI formats. A BB/3 level sync compatible gen lock connector is featured. The camera has a 2/3” bayonet mount for lenses, and a rotation filter mechanism installed, with The FZ-B3 marks FLOVEL’s latest addition to its high-end HD specialty camera line, which includes the FZ-B1 ultra high-sensitivity camera for day and night observation. Ultra High Sensitivity HD Digital Camera from Flovel
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FOR-A FOCUSED ON 4K FOR-A has introduced several new 4K products for capturing, processing, switching, viewing, and recording full 4K images. There is a new version of the FT-ONE 4K super slo mo camera, and a new ZE-ONE 4K zoom extraction system to frame and extract specified 4K image areas. Other 4K products debuted by FOR-A include a family of multiviewers. MV-4200 is a compact, 2 RU unit multi-viewer that accepts 4K signals, and is capable of handling up to 68 inputs and 8 outputs. The new MV-42HSA and MV-1620HSA multi viewers include 3G Level A/B support and 4K to HD down-converted output. The MV-1620HSA accepts up to 16 channels of mixed 3G/HD/SD-SDI/analog composite signals for monitoring on up to two screens, and can also be cascaded with other units to display up to 64 sources simultaneously. FOR-A also has new file based products, including the new LTR-200HS archive recorder that supports new LTO-6 tape technology and Avid DNX-HD. It features HD/SD-SDI input/output, broadcast quality codec, and MXF wrapping and unwrapping. FOR-A’s new LTS-60 media archiving server for LTO-6 drives is described as a small-scale archiving and backup solution that supports 4K archiving.
NEW IP ENCODING AND EPG SOLUTIONS R.L. Drake is demonstrating a new stand-alone, ming guides for TVs without set-top boxes. single HD-SDI input MPEG-2 and H.264 digital The EEG-QIP allows operators to create and encoder for local public access networks and deliver a simple programming guide to TVs program delivery. with clear-QAM tuners or properly mapped Using the new PEG-NE24-IP encoder, DTAs utilizing existing guide data. The unit operators can efficiently transport SD and automatically refreshes the guide information HD video and audio signals over existing HFC every five seconds with branded information networks, eliminating the need for expensive and related content. dedicated links or bandwidth-hungry analog sub-band solutions. The encoder sends signals from a local origination site back to the headend or hub location, so they can be multiplexed and broadcast, making it ideal for multipoint distribution applications. The PEG-NE24-IP can produce both HD and a secondary SD program from one single HD source through an SFP interface that includes copper and fiber output options, depending on the SFP module chosen by the user. Powered by a separate 110V AC power unit, the PEG-NE24-IP encoder provides operators with a small, modular, desktop solution that is compact, cost-effective, and reliable. Drake is also launching the EEG-QIP, an MSO soluDrake’s HD-SDI MPEG Encoder tion for producing program-
New 4K Multi-viewers from FOR-A
VIDEOFLOW OVER UNMANAGED NETWORKS VideoFlow will unveil a new product in its range of Digital Video Protection (DVP) solutions for delivering live, high quality video (SD, HD and above) over unmanaged, best efforts networks. The new DVP100X handles up to 80 streams and 80 virtual private network (VPN) tunnels simultaneously reaching 300 Mbps, the company describes, so that large multi-point networks can be created to deliver live content over unmanaged networks with no packet lost and nullified transit jitter. The DVP100X provides broadcasters, teleports and operators a platform for broadcast quality, live video over standard Internet connections thereby eliminating the need for expensive service level agreement (SLA). In addition, the DVP100X offers secured video connections with IPsec for maximum security level. The DVP100X solution consists of two products: the Protector stores the packets in the case a packet retransmission is needed, while the Sentinel eliminates the jitter by locking to the video stream, monitors the health of the video stream and requests packets to be resent from the Protector only if required. The DVP100 Fortress for the transit network which acts as Protector and Sentinel in the same time hence allow isolating the distribution network from the contribution network further reducing the cost of delivery by decreasing the required uplink bit rate for a point-to-multipoint delivery as well as the additional overhead for packet recovery. VideoFlow has four key technology patents covering Live Content Delivery Networking (LCDN) with over a dozen patents pending.
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tools of the trade DEJERO RELEASES NEW COMPACT LIVE+ BROADCAST SERVER Dejero has launched a new version of its rackmounted Dejero LIVE+ Broadcast Server in a compact, 1U form factor. Dejero’s LIVE+ Platform, including portable transmitters and software for laptops and smartphones, can manage and bond wireless connections (3G/4G/LTE, Wi-Fi, Ethernet, microwave, and satellite) together for delivering broadcast quality imagery. The new LIVE+ Broadcast Server includes dual-redundant power supplies and RAID hard drives designed for increased broadcast reliability when receiving video transmissions from field-based transmission devices including the LIVE+ 20/20 Transmitter, LIVE+ VSET, LIVE+ Mobile App, and LIVE+ NewsBook. The updated 1U LIVE+ Broadcast Server supports two live feeds simultaneously from different LIVE+ transmitters and outputs real-time genlocked HD or SD video that feeds into the playout workflow. In addition to live video, the
server can also receive store-and-forward video clips, edited video packages or other files that may be used at the broadcast facility to complete a story. Dual 400W redundant power supplies ensure broadcast continuity if one power supply fails, and they can be hot-swapped while
Dejero-LIVE+ Broadcast Server is now available in a 1RU form factor.
The Ruige TL1730HDA-CO Ruige is unveiling a new compact transportable picture monitor. The TL1730HDA-CO monitor comes with a detachable folding sunshade plus a transit case that’s rated as resistant to impact, water, dust and high temperatures. The Ruige TL1730HDA-CO has a 1920 x 1080 resolution 17.3 inch screen based on a 10 bit IPS panel with a wide 178 degree horizontal and vertical viewing angle. Images are displayed on screen with 300 cd/m² image brightness, 600:1 contrast ratio, three millisecond response time and 0.1989 x 0.1989 mm dot pitch. The monitor’s mode can be switched between 16:9 and 4:3; it is equipped with 3G/HD/SD-SDI, HDMI and composite inputs
the server is in use. For data redundancy and protection of stored data, the LIVE+ Broadcast Server now includes 2 x 1TB RAID hard drives. In addition, the new server features a quad-core Intel Xeon high-performance processor for allday, everyday reliability.
SOUND DEVICES DEBUTS VIDEO DEVICES New video devices by Sound Devices, including the new PIX 270i and PIX 250i, are part of the manufacturer’s push into broadcast and digital media production markets. The network-connected PIX 270i and PIX 250i video decks offer significant advantages for production workflows, providing time-saving tapeless, file-based recording and playback with the ability to remotely control, set up and transfer high-quality files over Ethernet. The units record edit-ready Apple ProRes or Avid DNxHD files and allow simultaneous multipledrive recording, giving production staff peace of mind with their rock-solid redundancy and
CARRY-ON PICTURE MONITOR FROM RUIGE
backup capabilities (four drives for PIX 270i and two drives for 250i). Their extensive audio capabilities, including 64 channels of both MADI audio and Dante audio-over-Ethernet for PIX 270i (a world’s first for a video deck) and the PIX 250i’s 16 tracks of audio, make each unit a comprehensive, cost-effective tool for high-performance video capture and presentation. Over the next several months, the company will brand all video-related products as Video Devices, including the PIX 240i, PIX 250i, and PIX 270i recorders. All future video products will also be branded Video Devices.
The new portable HD monitor from Ruige. plus a dual channel analog audio input and a red/green tally feed. These are augmented by 3G/HD/SD-SDI and composite video outputs plus a SDI-de-embedded audio output, 3.5 mm headphone feed and integral two watt loudspeakers. The case dimensions are 528 x 355 x 45 mm; weight is approximately 7.5 kg. The TL1730HDA-CO operates for up to six hours from a 130 watt-hour standard broadcast lithium battery, connected via V mount or Gold mount battery plate. A universal mains adapter is provided.
NOA HANDLES WEB CONTENT, FILE FORMATS, ARCHIVE MEDIA NOA is introducing new products for digitizing, archiving, description and retrieval of AV and other media content in its line-up of ingestLINE, mediARC, actLINE and jobDB line-ups. The new MediArc for Web, for example, allows users to access archival content for a large user base, with new features such as an extension to show video content, and easier navigation based upon an index of shot detected scenes. Video proxy files can be located more rapidly and various video segments can be easily processed to an order basket for export. The new NOA VideoScanner, meanwhile, decodes a list of dedicated production formats to a lossless compressed mezzanine format, produces an index of detected shots and allows for unified handling in the subsequent archiving process. VideoScanner is described as a valuable tool for streamlining day-to-day TV workflows, and making required file format production more efficient. 22 www.mediacastermagazine.com
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The new MediArc for Web lets users access archival content in a large user base.
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