Pharos Launches Web Browser Playout Control

The Mediator 4 Playtime option from Pharos introduces a web browser user interface.
Playout can now be managed from multiple remote locations whilst sharing the central Mediator infrastructure for ingest, browse, transcode, storage and playout.
By flexibly locating playout management away from central infrastructure, Playtime allows operations to be distributed to the most convenient location. This enables flexible staffing to better manage bust peak periods.
Integral to the reputation of a successful service-provider is the confidence of its clients; the right content must go out at the right time, across all channels and regions. This new option allows international clients to view and if necessary interact with their schedule and playlist.
Distributing playout control has many key benefits. For example, content can be checked locally with knowledge of the schedule, break pattern and playlists. Local channel managers can access exactly the right version using Mediator browse and can approve items such as multi-language voice-overs, subtitles and promotions.
Russell Grute at Pharos said: "For the first time, international broadcasters and service-providers can view playlists and manager their playout operations remotely with web browser user interfaces.
"Playtime is fully integrated with the Mediator content management platform and provides all the information required to manager global playout from any location. This allows playout operations to be distributed between international broadcasters, service-providers, their affiliates and clients."
The new Playtime web interface also has many unique features not found in traditional automation systems, such as thumbnails of every piece of material. This enables easy recognition of the correct material by busy playout operators. Integral to the Mediator content management platform and workflow, this new option builds on Pharos' 11 years of experience in playout automation. This allows talent in the local market to produce and actively manage channels whilst leveraging economies of scale in their central technical infrastructure.
Pharos will be at Stand 10.D31 at IBC2008 in Amsterdam.
Further information is available at: www.pharos.tv.
(KMcA/JM)