Leitch Technology Corporation today announced the unveiling of its new all-MPEG-2 stream manipulation product line, the Digital Turnaround Processor(TM) (DTP). Providing patented, first- ever motion logo support without decoding and re-encoding MPEG-2 streams, the Digital Turnaround Processor allows broadcasters to overlay graphics/logos on pre-compressed, high-definition and standard-definition streams inexpensively and with superior video quality.With multiple U.S. patents issued and pending for its leading-edge technology, the DTP represents the second generation of all-MPEG-2 processing products leveraging the ongoing success of Leitch's AgileVision product line, the leading choice of ATSC stations in the U.S. for MPEG-2 stream processing over the last two years. With the DTP, a remotely encoded DTV signal can be localized with such applications as motion logo overlays, Emergency Alert Systems, crawls, advertisement tag overlays, clock overlays, stock information and local weather and news. This allows broadcasters to derive additional revenue from national content by localizing it and making it more relevant to local audiences.
By performing all-MPEG-2 manipulation to handle multicast DTV transmission to the home at prices equivalent to one HD real-time encoder, the DTP drastically reduces the cost of deployment where various master control and compression functions are needed. Ongoing transmission costs can also be reduced by distributing streams to local stations at lower bit rates owing to the DTP's ability to process the streams without having to decode and re- encode. This successfully avoids MPEG-2 generational losses associated with repeated encoding operations and allows pristine high-definition video quality, one of the main benefits of HDTV.
The DTP is built on general-purpose compute platforms with optimized software performing real-time compressed stream processing. This allows DTP customers to gain the benefit of video and application innovations in a software-only, non-intrusive manner. Reliable, high-performance operation is enabled by the DTP's use of the QNX® Neutrino® real-time operating system and transforms the platform used into a high-performance compressed video appliance.
"By working with Leitch, QNX is helping to leverage general purpose computing power for the broadcast industry, while maintaining the industry's 24 by 7 operational requirements," said Dan Dodge, CEO of QNX Software Systems.
The DTP integrates seamlessly with broadcast automation systems for smoother upgrades to new services by leveraging installed equipment and, more importantly, by extending operating procedures rather than replacing them. To integrate easily with leading broadcast automation systems, the DTP supports industry-standard protocols that mimic multi-channel master control switchers. Additionally, the DTP product is pre-integrated with MicroFirst's Digital Automation System (D.A.S.) to accelerate "time to air" for stations wishing to launch new DTV services. The MicroFirst D.A.S. is already successfully on air automating AgileVision products and performing such all-MPEG-2 operations as HD logo overlays and switching (splicing in MPEG-2). Powered by the MPC-1600 real-time processing platform, MicroFirst automation is a highly reliable system offering 24/7 operations.
"With IP-based control, intuitive GUIs and dynamic, real-time pooling of resources, the pre-integration of the D.A.S. and the DTP offers a best-in-class solution and allows broadcasters to confidently launch all-MPEG-2 new services," said Jerry Berger, vice president and general manager of MicroFirst Engineering Inc.
The Leitch NAB exhibit will demonstrate QNX Neutrino powering the DTP, as well as the MicroFirst D.A.S. system automating the DTP with various master control functions.
"Leitch is pleased to unveil its new Digital Turnaround Processor, as it leverages years of on-air operational experience and sets new standards in MPEG-2 network content enhancement at a very competitive price," said Tim Thorsteinson, CEO of Leitch.
About QNX Software Systems
Founded in 1980, QNX Software Systems is the industry leader in realtime, microkernel OS technology. The inherent reliability, scalable architecture, and proven performance of the QNX Neutrino RTOS make it the most trusted foundation for future-ready applications in the networking, automotive, medical, and industrial automation markets. Companies worldwide like Cisco, Ford, Siemens, and Texaco depend on the QNX technology for their mission- and life-critical applications. Headquartered in Ottawa, Canada, QNX Software Systems maintains offices in North America, Europe, and Asia, and distributes its products in more than 100 countries worldwide. Visit http://www.qnx.com.
QNX and Neutrino are registered trademarks of QNX Software Systems Ltd. in certain jurisdictions.
About MicroFirst
MicroFirst is revolutionizing the broadcast, multimedia and gaming automation market by having created moderate cost, wide-area network automation systems capable of unlimited expansion. MicroFirst's Digital Automation System has an installed base that includes broadcast television and radio networks and stations, multimedia presentation control rooms for large and multi - screen video display, museums, casinos, & cruise ships. MicroFirst has also developed a slot management and patron tracking system for the gaming industry.
About Leitch
Leitch Technology is a 33-year global leader in the design and distribution of high-performance video systems for the professional television industry. Leitch offers the most extensible products and interoperable systems, enabling operations of any size to achieve a truly Integrated Content Environment. Leitch is the most trusted name for increasing performance and productivity through solutions that streamline workflow of content production, processing, transmission and management. With a sole focus on and commitment to the television industry, Leitch provides unparalleled customer support. (www.leitch.com)