A&E Television Networks (AETN) and Ascent Media, a provider of services to the media and entertainment industry, have announced the culmination of a strategic relationship that provides AETN with a centrally-managed digital repository of their media assets.
Ascent Media has designed and built a dedicated, state-of-the-art file-based platform to meet AETN’s current and future media distribution requirements. The system provides playout capabilities for existing SD and HD linear channels, and enables the full library of AETN content to be digitized, catalogued and managed more efficiently.
As a full-service outsourcing partner, Ascent also owns and operates the facility. Dedicated Ascent personnel staff the Stamford operation on a 24/7 basis, and shared resources around the world provide deep technical and operational expertise. This arrangement enables AETN to focus on brand and market development, while entrusting its technology and operational needs to Ascent Media.
The system has been designed to digitize and archive all content scheduled for air on AETN networks. Using direct access to files or low-resolution proxies on desktops in Stamford or New York City, AETN and Ascent Media staff can retrieve and manipulate video for post-production, create on-air promotions and direct the movement of files to the Ascent Media playout facility for playout.
Metadata is delivered in real time via direct fiber links to AETN business systems in New York, eliminating data entry errors and delays in the collection of tracking information. Advanced graphics systems provide extensive on-air layering capabilities for branding, promotions and DVE moves.
Fore more information, visit www.ascentmedia.com.
