Software-based automation platforms enjoy economic stimulus
Apr 13, 2009 10:25 AM, By Michael Grotticelli
Omnibus Systems’ iTX integrated suite of software applications runs on low-cost IT servers.
Many of these IT-centric software platforms, based on the Microsoft Windows XP operating system, can be used for graphics and branding applications, subtitling, as well as controlling DVE boxes and other elements, in addition to automatically playing out audio and video clips, much like a video server.
For example, the playKast system enables users to output a fully branded channel with many automated output options — like aspect ratio conversion, multiple audio tracks, promos, multiformat playout on the same timeline, and time delay — from a single PC workstation.
At the NAB Show OmniBus Systems, another advocate of the software-based automation model, will introduce a new Mobile Video module for its iTX software-based automation, master control and playout system. According to the company, the iTX platform makes traditional automation, master control and playout equipment obsolete. It does this by combining all the functions of a conventional transmission chain into a single, integrated suite of software applications running on low-cost IT servers. DIRECTV, in Los Angeles, uses the iTX system to control its multichannel playout operations.
With the Mobile Video module, it’s now possible for broadcasters to send high-quality transmissions with baseband mixing, transitions and effects to portable devices. iTX Mobile allows operators to easily expand into new market opportunities, as well as see cost savings and quick return on investment.
Mike Oldham, OmniBus Systems CEO, said that despite the tough economy, broadcasters still need to develop of new sources of revenue. “Now that the era of poor-quality services made by splicing highly-compressed streams is over, we are seeing significant uptake from some of the biggest names in the industry because iTX Mobile allows any broadcaster to quickly deploy new mobile TV services distinguished by the quality and branding that will win new subscribers.”
Offering a similar solution is Pro-Bel, with its Morpheus Integrated Content Engine (ICE). Based on the company’s existing Morpheus automation technology, ICE is a standalone automation and master control system that does the job of several products from different manufacturers — including automation, a master control switcher, graphics engine and media server — in a single 3RU box.
The platform provides everything necessary for single channel playout or, by linking ICE units together, a multichannel environment. ICE is also used for adding cost-effective channel backup, preview or regional opt-out management to existing automation systems. ICE supports a wide range of SD and HD video file formats, removing the transcode bottleneck.
“It’s taken the market a long time to move from a VTR-based model to a file-based model and now to an IT-based architecture,” Errington said, “but we’re now getting the kinds of performance and capabilities with advanced features that our customers have needed for many years.”
| Want to use this article? Click here for options! |  |
