Pro-Bel technology supports Scopus in Far East success

Pro-Bel, manufacturer and supplier of routing, signal processing, master control, automation and TFT monitors, has announced that Scopus Network Technologies, a leading supplier of digital compression technology to the broadcasting industry, has purchased three Sirius routers, one of which has already been successfully deployed by CSTV (Chinese Satellite Communications) as part of a Scopus digital broadcasting platform.
Taiwan-based CSTV has rolled out the new technology platform in order to expand the range and reach of its C-Skynet direct-to-home (DTH) service. The company has been able to raise the number of channels that it broadcasts to Chinese speaking populations across the Asia-Pacific region from 30 to 80.
The Sirius router is integrated by Scopus into its complete headend platform. The solution allows the satellite broadcaster to use a unique combination of real-time encoding, statistical multiplexing and rate reduction to transmit high quality pictures within the available bandwidth. The system uses Scopus' JRA (Joint Rate Allocation) to improve bandwidth utilisation for simultaneous real-time encoding and pre-encoded material with its new IVG (Intelligent Video Gateway) platform. CSTV is now transmitting over seven transponders using an upgraded conditional access system.
The Sirius router sits at the heart of the operation and is an integral part of the multi-channel system, facilitating both flexible and efficient channel allocation and is key to the prevision of redundancy. Because channels can be efficiently re-routed, CSTV is able to maximise its revenue opportunities through the accurate targeting of services.
Scopus selected the Pro-Bel solution because of the technological capabilities, ease-of use, reliability and cost-effectiveness.
Graham Pitman, CEO of the Pro-Bel Group, said: "Pro-Bel is always pleased to work with technology partners in order to provide end users like CSTV with the best possible solution. Scopus' technology, in combination with our own, has proved to be a winning formula."
(GB)