Iraqi Network Chooses Pixel Power For HD

A designer and manufacturer of broadcast graphics systems, has announced that the Iraqi Media Network (IMN) is deploying Pixel Power Clarity 5000 broadcast graphics technology for its newly built, HD TV studio facilities in Baghdad.
The new graphics technology joins six other Clarity graphics systems from Pixel Power that have been installed by IMN during the last two years.
Iraqi Media Network is an Iraqi government-funded news and entertainment network that includes Al Iraqia television, Iraqia Sport, Al Atyaf, Iraqiya Moubashir, Al-Quran, Al-Shabak magazine and Al Sabah newspaper.
The newly installed dual-channel, high definition Clarity 5000 will support the network’s wide variety of HD production needs simultaneously, including news, sports, studio production and playout. The system can interface directly with MOS-based newsroom systems, automation systems, and other critical infrastructure to ensure a seamless workflow for any application IMN requires.
With Clarity graphics deployed throughout its operations, IMN has established a flexible pool of networked graphics resources that can be configured and applied as needed.
Emad Hameed, Head of IMN’s Engineering & Technical Department in the Baghdad headquarters said: "IMN’s new HD studio was designed to serve many different purposes. Pixel Power Clarity is therefore a good fit for this environment because it is highly adaptable, enabling our staff and our systems to easily transition between functions."
While the latest Clarity 5000 installation at IMS is primarily intended for HD, each channel can be separately configured for standard definition should the need arise, even supporting HD and SD simultaneously within a single system. Features such as onboard still store, clip support, dedicated preview with key on each channel, and user-definable inputs provide IMS with greater creative flexibility without requiring additional equipment.
Reliability was also a critical factor for IMN.
Clarity 5000 incorporates numerous features as standard equipment to ensure performance and durability including redundant power supplies and RAID-protected storage.
Sony Professional Solutions Middle East integrated the equipment into a larger installation through their authorised re-seller for Iraq, ITECO Broadcast, "We specified Clarity graphics systems for their reliability, graphic capabilities and user-friendly GUI," commented Sanmugun Periasamy, Project Manager, Sony Professional Solutions Middle East. "Pixel Power and ITECO have successfully offered a complete solution of dynamic graphics and customer support."
James Gilbert, Joint Managing Director of Pixel Power, says, "IMN’s new HD studio is a good example of how broadcasters can achieve world-class results without excessive complexity. Pixel Power Clarity enables IMN to address all of its graphics needs, including live production, news, branding, and more, without the need for massive amounts of dedicated systems or specialised staff. When coupled with our high standards of customer care, broadcasters feel empowered to take on ambitious projects such as IMN’s HD expansion."
IMN’s new HD studio is expected to begin delivering TV drama production during the first quarter of 2010.
(BMcN/BMcC)