Pixel Power To Feature At SMPTE 2015

Pixel Power is to focus on the transition to IP at SMPTE 2015, it has been announced, as it demonstrates StreamMaster.

StreamMaster, which was launched at IBC in September, is a new software playout platform, designed for the future of IP, while also supporting SDI infrastructures. The solution utilises the company's experience in real-time graphics, as well as automation. It provides the requirements of a channel playout device – including multi-level 3D graphics, squeezebacks and hot starts, and secondary events – in a software package which runs on standard IT hardware. The software can run in a virtualised environment in a data centre, or it can be hosted on dedicated hardware with video I/O cards to fit into an SDI environment.

As it runs on standard IT products, it is more cost-effective than technology that needs bespoke hardware. In addition, as a software package it enables for new pricing models, so broadcasters and playout centres could choose to move from a capex basis to a pay-as-you-go licence, allowing operators to better match the cost of their technology to their revenue streams.

"StreamMaster is the first in our next generation of products, which are designed to make the most of the IP future," said James Gilbert, CEO of Pixel Power. "We have taken 30 years of knowledge and experience in top-end graphics and automation, and re-implemented them in open, agile and extremely flexible software.

"That means broadcasters and playout operators can turn the playout system on or off at will: if they want a pop-up channel for a special event, all it means is getting a short-term licence. It also means that if the future includes 4K, or high dynamic range video, or maybe even something that we have yet to see, we can add it simply and transparently.

"StreamMaster is scalable, extensible and sustainable, ready for whatever developments come along. This could be the last investment you ever need to make in playout technology."

www.pixelpower.com

(JP/MH)