CLEAR-COM SHINES THE LIGHT ON ECLIPSE VERSION 5.1 AT NAB 2009

Upgraded System Features IP Link to Clear-Com V-Series and Concert 2.0 Products

LAS VEGAS, NEVADA, APRIL 20, 2009 ─ Clear-Com® Communication Systems, a Vitec Group brand, is previewing at NAB 2009 (Booth C6521) Eclipse Version 5.1, the latest in the evolution of its popular digital matrix intercom system. Now able to link seamlessly to Clear-Com’s IP-enabled V-Series control panels and Concert Version 2.0 software-based intercom system, Eclipse V5.1 is at the core of Clear-Com’s groundbreaking Hybrid Time-Divisional Multiplexing (TDM) intercom/IP server network concept, which dramatically extends the reach of intercom systems across a broadcast facility.

Eclipse V5.1’s breakthrough IP linking capability, enabled by Clear-Com’s new IVC-32 IP matrix card, establishes a single communications environment between all traditional hardware and IP-based intercom users in a broadcast facility, paving the way for new, highly flexible workflows. Some of these scenarios might include communications between reporters located in remote news bureaus and those at the main station, executive staff being able to alert workers in the studio about important programming and airtime issues and inter-area communication within editing suites or control rooms, among others.

Further enhancing the flexibility of Eclipse V5.1 are the new Logic Maestro™ and Production Maestro™ modules for the Eclipse Configuration Software (ECS), which promote fast, easy configuration setups. Logic Maestro gives users access to a powerful graphical object-oriented Control logic tool, ideal for rapid programming customization and simulation, while the Production Maestro add-on module lets operators interact directly with the Eclipse to quickly set up and manage live dynamic voice communications for small or large networked intercom systems.

“As the heart of our Hybrid TDM intercom/IP Server Network, Eclipse Version 5.1 is a powerful example of Clear-Com’s commitment to transforming the latest technological innovations into practical communications solutions for broadcasters,” says Jake Dodson, VP Product Management, Clear-Com Communication Systems. “The ability of Eclipse to link via IP to the V-Series and Concert panels allows our customers to take full advantage of the flexibility and cost-savings of IP without sacrificing the reliability of their TDM-based intercoms. It’s a win-win situation.”

Eclipse Version 5.1 retains all the classic features of the Eclipse line of digital matrix intercoms, including multiple connections over CAT5, AES3, coaxial and single twisted pair cables, management software that uses drag-and-drop panel key programming and versatile yet simple IFB programming. Crosspoint monitoring and assignment, I/O levels and event and status logging capabilities have been retained in Eclipse V5.1, along with the ability to link matrices over fiber and digital trunks.

Clear-Com’s IVC-32 is a 32-channel IP matrix card offering more connections at a better value than any other card of its type on the market. It is based on the company’s new I.V.Core technology, a revolutionary set of building blocks and engines enabling real-time, dynamic and non-blocking intercom capabilities over a standard IP network, making new and traditional intercom systems IP-compatible.

I.V.Core is capable of handling several voice communications simultaneously and can scale much more effectively to higher numbers of users while tolerating and optimizing poorer quality or traffic-laden IP networks.

ABOUT CLEAR-COM

Clear-Com®, a brand of the Vitec Group plc, is the global leader of professional communication solutions for broadcast, live performance, military, government and commercial markets. For more than 40 years, Clear-Com’s signature products such as Encore Party-line, Eclipse Digital Matrix, CellCom®/FreeSpeak® Wireless and IP Communications systems have revolutionized broadcast stations, production trucks, houses of worship and performance venues. Recognizing Clear-Com for its history of intercom innovation, production teams around the world achieve ubiquitous communication with products to promote easy interoperability and global connectivity. More information can be found at www.clearcom.com.

ABOUT THE VITEC GROUP

The Vitec Group plc is acknowledged as a global leader in the supply of equipment and services to the broadcasting, entertainment and photographic industries and has established a reputation for technical excellence and superior engineering along with an astute business strategy which has seen it grow by acquisition. Innovation is a cornerstone of the Group’s activities and the organization is committed to a policy of continuous product development. With revenues (2007) of £274m and over 2,200 employees world-wide, its products are distributed in almost 100 countries, through a strong, fully-resourced distribution network or direct to the end user or corporate customer. More information can be found at www.vitecgroup.com.

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