Latest news with #Evertz
Broadcast Pro
16-04-2025
- Business
- Broadcast Pro
Asharq Egypt upgrades to remote production
When Asharq Egypt set out to redefine its live production capabilities, it envisioned a state-of-the-art remote production studio that would seamlessly connect Cairo to its Dubai headquarters. To bring this vision to life, the broadcaster entrusted Broadcast & Studio Solutions (BSS) with the systems integration. Vijaya Cherian brings you the tech details. Asharq Egypt, the broadcast network's third cutting-edge facility after Dubai and Riyadh, recently made a multi-million-dollar transition to an IP-based remote production model that has significantly reduced its operational costs owing to more flexible production scheduling and a decline in travel expenses. Headed by Asharq News Chief Technology Officer (CTO) Omran Abdallah, the project was integrated by local player BSS, whose role was to ensure that every element – from infrastructure to cutting-edge broadcast technology – was designed for efficiency, scalability and future growth. 'This project was not merely an upgrade but a complete transformation,' says Abdallah. 'The legacy systems in place were outdated, inflexible and incapable of supporting modern IP-based workflows. The new infrastructure, designed from the ground up, allows for effortless scalability, whether adding new cameras, increasing audio capacity or expanding the network's capabilities in the future.' The upgrade saw the deployment of new technology designed to create a high-performance workflow tailored to the evolving needs of live broadcasting. The project went live last year without any disruptions. Tareq Eid, Managing Director of BSS, says the integrator 'was fully involved in the end-to-end delivery of the remote production studio in Cairo, supplying all the equipment, handling the installation and overseeing the commissioning of the entire facility'. For the video set-up in the new IP studio, Asharq Egypt has opted for Grass Valley LDX135 full SMPTE ST 2110 IP cameras coupled with Canon lenses. This project includes the addition of four cameras, eight microphones, four bodypack receivers and two video wall engines, all integrated for a streamlined and efficient production experience. The studio operation also features an Autoscript prompting solution, Vizrt graphics for dynamic visuals and Evertz sync generators to ensure precise system synchronisation. Audio workflows were designed with Dante Audioover-IP architecture and an SSL audio mixer. The system also incorporates RTS intercoms for real-time communication, essential for live production teams managing complex broadcasts. One of the most complex challenges in this project was ensuring low-latency, high-reliability connectivity between Cairo and Dubai to facilitate remote production. To achieve this, the team installed TVU RPC encoders and decoders as the main system and Nimbra for backup, ensuring seamless video transmission between both locations. After rigorous testing and optimising network performance, the integration team eliminated potential connectivity issues, allowing real-time collaboration and remote management. At the heart of the system is a Cisco network switch that ensures stable, high-speed connections, facilitating 25 client connections and supporting the demands of a modern remote production environment. BSS ensured that all components adhere to SMPTE ST 2110, AES67 and Dante Audio standards, making it easier for Asharq Egypt to integrate future advancements without requiring major overhauls. Although there was no formal vendor training on this project, Eid says BSS facilitated several in-depth technical knowledge transfer sessions with the broadcaster's in-house team. 'We offered sessions that provided detailed insights into the system's architecture, workflows and maintenance protocols. Additionally, BSS provided as-built drawings, manuals and comprehensive documentation to ensure a smooth transition and continued operational efficiency.' 'Our Egypt facility has already started delivering tangible business benefits,' says Abdallah. 'The integration of advanced video and audio solutions has enhanced the quality of live broadcasts, positioning Asharq Egypt as a major player in remote production. Furthermore, by consolidating operations into a centralised, connected environment, we have achieved greater control over our workflows, ensuring efficiency and adaptability.' The new system at Asharq Egypt has a modular design that allows seamless integration of new tools such as AI-driven automation, cloud-based services and enhanced robotics for even greater production flexibility. 'BSS, as the sole systems integrator on this project, has delivered a future-proof broadcast facility designed to meet the current and future demands of a rapidly evolving industry,' says Eid proudly. As media organisations worldwide embrace remote production and IP-based workflows, Abdallah says Asharq Egypt's investment is part of its objective to remain ahead of the curve. 'By being equipped with the latest innovations, we believe we will drive the future of broadcasting,' he concludes.
Broadcast Pro
06-04-2025
- Business
- Broadcast Pro
Evertz announces media processing solution supporting JPEG XS at NAB
With support for SMPTE ST 2110, SDR and HDR formats, the RFK-ITXE-HW-DUO is tailored to meet IP-based media transport standards and expanded colour space requirements. Evertz is set to showcase major advancements in JPEG XS technology at NAB 2025, spotlighting upgrades across its RFK-ITXE-HW-DUO, NEXX and SCORPION platforms. The enhancements reinforce Evertz's leadership in scalable, low-latency UHD media solutions, addressing the evolving demands of modern broadcast and streaming workflows. At the centre of the announcement is the RFK-ITXE-HW-DUO, a high-density, flexible signal acquisition and transcoding platform. This unit now supports multi-path JPEG XS encoding for UHD content, alongside HEVC SRT outputs, enabling efficient 4K transmission over both stable and unreliable networks. It also accommodates HLS and RTMP outputs, offering broad compatibility for transport and backhaul scenarios. With support for SMPTE ST 2110, SDR and HDR formats, the RFK-ITXE-HW-DUO is tailored to meet IP-based media transport standards and expanded colour space requirements. Rajvir Singh, Technical Product Manager for Compression Systems, said: 'We are very excited to further expand and cater to unique, challenging broadcast workflows with the RFK-ITXE-HW-DUO, which is a result of our continuous research and development in media processing and IP solutions. 'The RFK-ITXE-HW-DUO is a game-changer for our customers, who can now benefit from a single platform that can handle any media format, resolution and protocol while delivering exceptional quality and performance. The RFK-ITXE-HW-DUO is not only a product, but a platform that can enable new business opportunities and revenue streams for our customers in the broadcast and streaming markets.' Evertz is also bringing JPEG XS to its NEXX next-generation processing and routing platform with the launch of the NEXX-IO-R1 module at NAB 2025. This universal IO module offers performance and flexibility for JPEG XS encoding and decoding for any format and interface. A single NEXX-IO-R1 can support up to 32 JPEG XS encodes or decodes, providing a native all-in-one solution for routing, monitoring and primary distribution. The SCORPION Flexible Media Edge also gets a major boost with the new MIO-BLADE-Z22-SFP Module, supporting six JPEG XS encodes or decodes per module, allowing Evertz to support up to 56 JPEG XS encodes or decodes in a compact 1RU form factor. This dual-slot module supports a variety of other application builds to further facilitate primary contribution-based requirements. 'With the continued focus for high-density JPEG XS offerings, we are expanding the capabilities and possibilities of our flexible NEXX and SCORPION platforms,' highlighted Singh. 'JPEG XS is a game-changer for IP-based video production, as it delivers the same quality as uncompressed video 3G, 4K and 8K with much lower bandwidth requirements and low latency while being colour space agnostic and utilizing a small footprint. Our bulk MIO-BLADE-Z22-SFP offering significantly increases the density of Evertz's previous generation offering, the ev670-X45-HW, MIO-BLADE-Z21.' Stand N915
Globe and Mail
31-03-2025
- Business
- Globe and Mail
Playout Automation & Channel-in-a-box Market Size, Share, Latest Trends, Growth Factors, Advance Technology And Forecast
"Harmonic (US), Evertz (Canada), Pebble Beach Systems (UK), Imagine Communications (US), Avid Technology (US), Grass Valley (US), Brightcove (US), Cinegy (US), Pixel Power (UK), ENCO Systems (US), BroadStream Solutions (US), PlayBox Technology (UK), Florical Systems (US)." Playout Automation & Channel-in-a-Box Market by Solution (Playout Scheduling & Management, Master Control Automation, Media Asset and Content Management, Graphics and Branding), Channel Type (Single, Multiple), Coverage Area - Global Forecast to 2028. The global playout automation and channel-in-a-box market is expected to grow at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 15.8% during the forecast period, expanding from an estimated USD 2.9 billion in 2023 to USD 6.1 billion by 2028. Key factors driving this growth include the rising demand for video content across multiple industries, the surge in OTT service adoption, the growing consumption of HD and UHD content, and the rapid expansion of live broadcasting. Download PDF Brochure@ By solution, the playout scheduling and management segment to register for the largest market size during the forecast period. By solutions, the playout scheduling and management segment is expected to register the largest market size during the forecast period. These solutions are designed to efficiently manage the scheduling of programs, advertisements, and other content, helping broadcasters maintain a cohesive and engaging on-air presence. In the competitive broadcasting landscape, where delivering high-quality content without disruptions is paramount, playout scheduling solutions contribute significantly to the overall success of a channel. Within the playout automation and channel-in-a-box market, these scheduling and management solutions often integrate with other elements of the broadcasting workflow, such as traffic management systems and media asset management platforms. By services, support and maintenance services to register for the highest CAGR during the forecast period. The support and maintenance segment of the playout automation & channel-in-a-box market is growing rapidly. Vendors in this market understand the critical nature of these systems and typically offer comprehensive maintenance packages to address both routine upkeep and emergency situations. Maintenance services encompass a spectrum of activities, ranging from software updates and hardware diagnostics to preventive maintenance checks. Regular software updates are vital to keeping playout systems current with evolving industry standards, and ensuring compatibility with new file formats, codecs, and broadcast protocols. By region, Asia Pacific accounted for the highest growth rate during the forecast period. Asia Pacific is witnessing significant growth in the playout automation & channel-in-a-box market. Asia-Pacific emerges as a region characterized by rapid digitalization, diverse content consumption patterns, and a burgeoning broadcasting industry. Growth drivers include the expanding middle-class population, increasing internet penetration, and the rise of mobile devices as primary content consumption platforms. Asian broadcasters are investing in advanced playout automation solutions to meet the demands of a vast and diverse audience while optimizing operational efficiency. Request Sample Pages@ Unique Features in the Playout Automation & Channel-in-a-box Market The channel-in-a-box concept combines multiple broadcasting functions, including ingest, scheduling, graphics, and playout, into a single, streamlined system. This eliminates the need for multiple hardware components, reducing costs and operational complexity. Modern playout automation solutions offer cloud-based and hybrid deployment options, allowing broadcasters to scale their operations effortlessly. Cloud integration ensures remote accessibility, faster content distribution, and cost-effective storage solutions. These systems support various video formats, including SD, HD, UHD, and even 4K and 8K resolutions, enabling broadcasters to deliver high-quality content across multiple platforms and devices. AI-powered automation enhances scheduling efficiency by optimizing content placement, ad insertion, and program lineup adjustments based on audience insights and viewing trends, ensuring seamless playout operations. With the increasing demand for live broadcasts, these platforms support real-time content ingestion and seamless live-to-air transitions, making them ideal for news channels, sports events, and live entertainment programming. Major Highlights of the Playout Automation & Channel-in-a-box Market The increasing popularity of over-the-top (OTT) platforms and digital streaming services is driving broadcasters to adopt automated playout solutions. These systems enable seamless content delivery across various online platforms, enhancing viewer engagement. The growing consumer preference for high-definition (HD), ultra-high-definition (UHD), and 4K content has pushed broadcasters to upgrade their playout solutions. Modern systems support multiple video formats to meet evolving audience demands. The shift towards cloud-based playout automation is enabling broadcasters to streamline operations, reduce infrastructure costs, and enhance scalability. Virtualized playout solutions also facilitate remote broadcasting and multi-platform content distribution. With the rising popularity of live sports, news, and entertainment events, broadcasters are increasingly investing in playout automation systems that support real-time content ingestion, processing, and seamless live-to-air transitions. Inquire Before Buying@ Top Companies in the Playout Automation & Channel-in-a-box Market Some major players in the playout automation & channel-in-a-box market include Harmonic (US), Evertz (Canada), Pebble Beach Systems (UK), Imagine Communications (US), Avid Technology (US), Grass Valley (US), Brightcove (US), Cinegy (US), Pixel Power (UK), ENCO Systems (US), BroadStream Solutions (US), PlayBox Technology (UK), Florical Systems (US), TSL Products (UK), Hardata (US), PlayBox Neo (Bulgaria), Hexaglobe (France), PlanetCast (India), Axel Technology (Italy), Aveco (Czech Republic), Anyware Video (France), Aplomb Technology (India), SI Media (Italy), Amagi (US), TVU Networks (US), Veset (Latvia), Evrideo (Israel), (UK), Muvi (US), LTN Global Communications (US), and Zixi (US). Harmonic (US) Harmonic has established itself as a technological leader in the playout automation and channel-in-a-box market through its innovative solutions and services. The company offers a comprehensive range of products designed to streamline broadcast workflows and enhance operational efficiency. One of Harmonic's key offerings is the Spectrum X advanced media server, which combines playout and channel-in-a-box functionalities, allowing broadcasters to manage content delivery seamlessly. The success of Harmonic in this market can be attributed to several factors. The Spectrum X, for instance, incorporates cutting-edge technologies such as software-based architectures, enabling flexibility and scalability for broadcasters. Harmonic has strategically focused on addressing the increasing demand for video content across various platforms. Evertz (Canada) Evertz has emerged as a prominent player in the playout automation and channel-in-a-box market, showcasing a robust technological portfolio to meet the dynamic demands of the broadcasting industry. The company's offerings are characterized by their cutting-edge technology and comprehensive solutions. Evertz leverages its advanced Mediator-X platform, a versatile and scalable automation solution that integrates seamlessly with channel-in-a-box functionalities. A key factor contributing to Evertz's success in this market is its commitment to IP-based and software-defined technologies. The Mediator-X platform, for instance, is designed to operate in both traditional broadcast and IP-based environments, providing broadcasters with flexibility in their transition to modern infrastructures. The company's solutions encompass not only playout automation but also encompass live production, media asset management, and distribution, creating an integrated ecosystem that caters to the entire broadcast workflow. Brightcove (US) Brightcove is recognized as a leading provider of cloud-based video hosting, streaming, and monetization solutions. Brightcove's technological strengths lie in its expertise in online video delivery and monetization. The company's solutions are geared towards helping organizations deliver and monetize video content across various platforms. Brightcove's Video Cloud platform, for instance, provides a comprehensive suite of tools for video hosting, streaming, and analytics. Factors contributing to Brightcove's market position include its user-friendly interface, scalability, and adaptability to different industries. The platform enables content owners to manage, distribute, and monetize video content efficiently. Pebble Beach Systems (UK) Pebble Beach Systems, based in the UK, is a prominent provider of automation, channel-in-a-box, and integrated channel solutions tailored for the broadcast and media industries. Their extensive product lineup encompasses playout automation, virtualized playout, ingest, content management, and multichannel automation. Renowned for their reliability, flexibility, and scalability, Pebble Beach Systems' solutions cater to broadcasters of all sizes. With a commitment to innovation, the company continually refines its offerings to align with the evolving needs of the broadcasting landscape. Hexaglobe (France) Hexaglobe, headquartered in France, specializes in developing software solutions for the broadcast and telecommunications sectors. At the heart of their portfolio is "Horus," a software-based playout automation system engineered to streamline broadcast workflows and enhance channel management. Hexaglobe prioritizes efficiency, ease of use, and cost-effectiveness in its solutions, catering to broadcasters, cable operators, and IPTV providers alike. By emphasizing technological innovation and customer satisfaction, Hexaglobe strives to deliver cutting-edge solutions that meet the dynamic demands of the media industry.
