Upgrading to HD, Iowa Public Television Casts Its Vote for Utah Scientific
SALT LAKE CITY -- Aug. 14, 2007 -- Utah Scientific today announced that its routers and control systems have been chosen by Iowa Public Television (IPTV) for its upgrade to high-definition programming. Iowans can see their state like never before thanks to IPTV providing the only locally produced HD programming in the state. IPTV, located in Johnston, has taken delivery of a 288-frame UTAH-400 router, a UTAH-400 64-port data router, an SC-4 control system, and an MX-Lator control interface for managing external routers.
"When an Iowan is watching a show about Iowa, that show should be compelling contextually and technically," said Bill Hayes, director of engineering at Iowa Public Television. "We set a high standard not because it's mandated but because we think our viewers deserve the best production possible if they're going to invest their valuable time. For years, we have used routing switchers from Utah Scientific because the company shares with us that same high standard of integrity. Doing business with Utah Scientific harkens back to the time when manufacturers stood behind their products."
The purchase is part of a studio and master-control upgrade to HD that is scheduled for completion in November. Because of the UTAH-400 series' high degree of compatibility, IPTV will be able to transition its system from composite analog to fully HD without having to replace or rewire the reliable legacy Utah Scientific equipment already installed, including an analog AVS-1 router and MC-500 master control.
In fact, for IPTV, a key selling point for the new Utah products was the durability of the legacy equipment. When Hayes analyzed the cost of maintaining Utah equipment at the station, it was less than $1,000 over the full 25 years of ownership. This is partly the result of Utah's unique 10-year, free, 24/7 warranty, but also because the products themselves rarely experience glitches.
"Longtime customers like Iowa Public Television recognize that Utah products combine reliability and durability with the latest innovations," said Tom Harmon, president of Utah Scientific. "With everything we manufacture, we keep in mind that there's no better salesman for a piece of our equipment than a satisfied customer."
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About Iowa Public Television (IPTV)
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Iowa Public Television is Iowa's statewide public broadcasting network. IPTV provides quality, alternative programming that educates, enlightens, and entertains Iowans throughout the state. A noncommercial, public-service mission enables IPTV to present an unequaled array of programs of lasting value to Iowans regardless of where they live or what they can afford. More than one million viewers a week turn to IPTV for programming that reflects a range of interests for Iowans in all demographic categories.
About Utah Scientific, Inc.
Utah Scientific, Inc., is a leading manufacturer of analog, digital, and HDTV routing switchers, master control switchers, and related products including a full range of software for controlling and managing switching systems. The company has been serving the broadcast industry for 30 years with industry-leading products and best-in-class service and support as recognized by Frost & Sullivan with its 2005 Customer Service Leadership Award and demonstrated by the industry's first 10-year warranty. Additional information about the company can be found at www.utahscientific.com.