Omnibus Systems offers broadcasters interactive technology for television
To keep up with the rapidly changing television industry, Omnibus Systems Inc., developed Colossus, a system designed to bridge the gap between audio, Internet and datastreaming applications while addressing the needs of broadcasters who want to add more numbers of existing channels to their output quickly.
The Colossus system offers broadcasters interactive technology for television that gives its viewers more choice in what they want to see.
Colossus has now been enhanced to include a cache manager to help manage media access across a large number of servers, while providing a graphical interface that displays the amount of space available on each of the servers. It also shows the media flow between them.
Colossus was recently used at this year's Wimbledon event.
Paying for DTV
SCRI International recently asked television stations how it planned to pay for the transition to DTV. The responses showed that many believed a variety of sources will be used. Despite the potential DTV provides for a variety of new revenue sources, commercial sales is seen as the most common source for revenue. Almost 71 percent of the stations saw commercials as a key to the station's future.
Datacasting, one potential revenue source, was ranked as the second in popularity, at 62 percent. For the non-commercial stations, PGS memberships and governmental grants were seen as the way to pay for DTV.
Two areas often mentioned as new opportunities for DTV stations were multicasting and high-definition programming. Almost one-in four stations, at least 24 percent, said it would use multicasting as a revenue source. No data is available on how many stations viewed HD as a revenue source.
Stations clearly are not relying on pay-per-view to pay for DTV. A little more than 1 percent surveyed said PPV was in the station's future. Stations are planning to use more than one source, as evidenced by the fact that the total exceeds 100 percent.
See the graph below for results.
TV stations are looking at a variety of ways to pay for the transition to DTV.
For more information, contact SCRI at www.scri.com or info@scri.com.
Sony migrates to all-digital line of acquisition equipment
Sony Electronics announced that it has now completely migrated to an all-digital lineup of professional acquisition equipment. Sony said the acquisition lineup, which ranges from the one-fourth inch DVCAM® format to the high-definition one-half inch HDCAM® format, offers a significantly higher performance at lower price points then the analog camcorders it replaced.
Sony said its all-digital acquisition equipment is a key component of the company’s “Anycast” theme. “Anycast” products are designed to help content producers and distributors originate and deliver the highest quality digital content over a variety of distribution channels.
Sony’s line of digital acquisition products separate into two parts. The first includes a range of digital camcorders on the one-fourth inch platform – the DVCAM family – which are tailored to the contemporary needs of ENG, event videography, independent moviemaking and documentaries. The second is based upon the one-half inch platform and constitutes the product portfolio targeted for the multifaceted mainstream world of DTV.
ParkerVision hires former CEO of iNews
ParkerVision, Inc. has hired Matt Danilowicz, former CEO of iNews, as a senior member of its video management team. In his new position, Danilowicz will assist the company on a wide range of issues including sales, marketing, strategic planning and product development. He will also develop third party integration/partnering activities.
Danilowicz joins ParkerVision with 16 years of experience in the broadcast technology marketplace. An early founder of newsroom computing, he most recently served as CEO of iNews and Vice President of Broadcast for Avid Technology, a worldwide supplier of news computing software for journalists and television producers.
Prior to forming iNews, Danilowicz held various executive positions with Avid Technology, including Vice President of Worldwide Channel Sales. Before joining Avid, he pioneered the Digistore, the world's first video-server based commercial playback system to be used on-air. Danilowicz also developed applications for the first radio frequency-based interactive television solution, TV Answer.
Danilowicz said his main objective in his new position is to help establish ParkerVision as a vital and significant technology provider to broadcasters and webcasters worldwide.
Sony unveils new CineAlta Web site for TV, independent film and motion picture professionals
Sony Electronics introduced a new Web site to serve as an industry resource for its 24P technology.
The site, http://www.SonyUSACineAlta.com , offers breaking news from the CineAlta technology news desk, technical information, critical reviews and articles about 24P.
It also includes 1080/60i high-definition projects, case studies, equipment and media specific FAQs and industry white papers. In addition, the site features content from creativeplanetcommunities.com, www.cinematographer.com, www.digitalCINEAmag.com, and http://www.videography.com.
Tektronix, Inc. presents multi-city technology symposium
Tektronix, Inc. announced its Technology Symposium 2001. The symposium is a free series of seminars that will address topics from optical measurement in 40 Gigabit/s systems to test and measurement challenges for wireless LANs to MPEG tests. The ten-city tour across the U.S. and Canada runs from November 6 to December 7.
Participants can choose from three different technology tracks during each all-day event. The three tracks will focus on Mobile Communications, Optical Communications, and Digital Video. It will offer individual 90-minute classes focused on key technologies and measurement techniques within each discipline. The day’s activities will conclude with a product fair showcasing the latest test instrumentation from Tektronix.
The Tektronix Symposium will travel to these locations:
November 6 - Ottawa, Canada; November 8 - Boston, Mass.; November 12 - Longbranch, N.J.; November 13 - Princeton, N.J.; November 15 - Baltimore, Md.; November 27 - Atlanta, Ga.; November 30 - Dallas, Texas; December 4 - San Diego, Calif; December 5 - Irvine, Calif; December 7 - San Jose, Calif.
Sony mobile truck to facilitate HDTV broadcasts for Pacific Northwest sporting events
Paul Allen's Action Sports and Entertainment Mobile Television (ASEM) has taken delivery of an advanced high-definition production truck - offering 60i and 24P production from Sony Electronics' Systems Integration Center. ASEM will use the new state-of-the-art truck from Sony to broadcast Portland Trail Blazers, Seattle Seahawks and Portland Fire games in high-definition on Allen's Action Sports Cable Network. ASEM will also make the truck available for rent.
The 53-foot "Expando" trailer is packed with the latest high-definition production gear from Sony including: The MVS-8000 digital multi-format production switcher, 10 Sony HDTV cameras, 11 HD tape machines, a Sony Oxford digital audio mixing console and three Sony 42-inch high-resolution flat panel monitors.
Thomson multimedia wins Scientific and Technological Emmy
Thomson multimedia Broadcast & Network Solutions have been awarded a Scientific and Technological Emmy® Award for its pioneering work in shared video-data storage systems technology for use in television video servers. The technology was made commercially available in the Media Pool server delivered to Home and Garden TV in 1994.
Thomson multimedia servers incorporate the latest in SAN technology. Its research and development teams continue to build on the SAN technologies first delivered in Media Pool, with its Nextore server.
More than 270 Thomson servers are used throughout the world, serving approximately 2,500 channels every day.
Freeze Frame
A look at the technology that shaped this industry
Panasonic increases commitment to high-definition production community
Panasonic Broadcast & Television Systems Company announced the establishment of the High Definition Business Development Center, based at 3330 Cahuenga Boulevard West, Los Angeles, CA. The establishment of the HD Center is the latest development in a series of recent investments in Hollywood by parent company, Matsushita, to support high-definition and video networking technologies and its application in digital cinema, broadcast television, scientific analysis and e-commerce.
The facility is one of three strategically-located Panasonic Broadcast facilities, including Secaucus, N.J., servicing New York and East Coast-based television networks; and Washington, D.C., servicing federal government agencies such as NASA, already a user of Panasonic's high-definition camera systems for scientific analysis and public relations relating to the space shuttle.
New TIA/EIA tower standards
A new standard for steel antenna towers and antenna supporting structures is being finalized. The standard, called Revision G, will replace the current rules, called Revision F, which many of today’s towers are operating under.
The changes in the standard are primarily driven by new knowledge of wind and load factors on tower and similar structures. Also, as broadcasters are intimately familiar, local zoning and national building codes often impact plans to construct towers, and new solutions are often needed.
The current standard (Rev. F) is under review by a committee of volunteer professionals, primarily tower engineers, and other communications product engineering consultants. The proposed new standards are expected to be made public after the first of the year. The EIA committee is likely to vote on the new standard sometime next year.
How will Revision G affect tower design?
The key differences will be noticed by tower designers. New calculations will change how loads are computed. For instance, the current standard calculates wind loading based on Fastest-Mile wind speed based on history and distance. The new standard will calculate wind loading according to three-second gust wind speeds. This means that a 50mph wind speed is not considered the same as a 50mph three-second wind speed. The new standard’s goal is to more accurately reflect the load a tower might encounter.
The new standard is also likely to include a mandatory ice load factor. Tower location will determine if the ice region calculations apply.
Will you have to modify your tower?
Maybe. If you plan on adding antennas or increasing the load, you may have to bring the tower into compliance with Rev G. If your tower currently meets today’s criteria and you’re not adding anything, additional changes are unlikely to be needed.
What about new towers?
If you’re planning to build a new tower soon, you should work closely with your tower designer and contractor. While the standard isn’t official now, a competent engineer or company can help you determine if your tower is likely to meet the new criteria. This could help protect your tower investment by ensuring the structure meets both today’s and tomorrow’s requirements.
Brad Dick
Editorial Director
Editor’s note: PiRod has a brochure reviewing the proposed new regulations and how they may impact broadcasters. You can obtain a copy by contacting the company at: 219-936-4221 or www.pirod.com.
Is 2002 the year of DTV?
SCRI International recently asked, “By when do you expect to be on the air transmitting a digital signal?” The responses showed that, cumulatively, more than 84 percent of TV stations plan to be transmitting DTV signals by the end of 2002.
By the end of 2003, a cumulative total of 92.5 percent plan to be DTV-compliant. Most significantly, perhaps, is that 2002 seems to be the year of DTV, with more than 48 percent of respondents saying they would be adding DTV sometime next year. For more information, contact SCRI at www.scri.com.
UHF stations get DTV delay
The FCC has announced new flexibility in the voluntary moving of broadcasters from channels 60-69 to other bands. The Commission, which is in a hurry to get broadcasters out of the 700MHz band, has approved new guidelines that permit those stations additional freedom and benefits if they’ll just move.
Based on a petition from the Paxson group and others, the FCC granted their request that makes it easier (and beneficial) for a station to move from the upper UHF band to their second assigned (DTV) channel. There are several benefits to the station that voluntarily makes this change.
First, any broadcaster that voluntarily moves out of the 700MHz band and gives up one of its channels to accommodate band clearing will be allowed to operate in the analog mode and then later convert to DTV at any time up until December 31, 2005. Also, these stations can seek a further extension of the DTV construction deadline if less than 70 percent of the television households in its market are capable of receiving DTV signals.
Second, the Commission also granted these broadcasters limited relief from DTV policies regarding interference protection of non-replicated service areas. The bottom line is that they don’t have to meet the same interference requirements as other stations.
Finally, these stations are promised a 90-day processing timeline for modification applications filed in connection with band-clearing arrangements. The FCC said there would be no delays in getting approval of their applications.
So, does this hint of further delays in DTV implementation? Probably not. The real reason for these new “flexible” rules is that the FCC has been under tremendous pressure to open the 700MHz band for Verizon and others to establish new cellular video and internet services. However, until all stations have vacated the band, the auctioning of those frequencies could not take place.
It’s the potential to generate billions of dollars through an auction that has forced the FCC to act on this petition. It’s no secret that the government (read Congress) and the FCC desperately a cut of those revenues. Therefore, if the FCC had to give a little on the DTV deadline to get their money earlier, so be it.
Paxson and other high-band UHF stations hope they can convince the FCC to share some of the financial pie generated by the sale of thise broadcast spectrum. That should prove to be an interesting battle to watch.
Getting back on the air
BY LARRY BLOOMFIELD
September 13, 2001-Resilience may best describe how America treats adversity. It may also represent well how the broadcasters in New York City met this nation’s most recent tragedy. There have been perhaps thousands of stories written about the events of Sept. 11th, but there is one story that seems to have eluded the mass media -- the one about the resiliency of New York broadcasters in returning service to New York viewers.
Effect on WTC broadcasters
It was in the upper floors of the North Tower of the World Trade Center (WTC) in New York that the transmitters for most of New York’s television stations and several FMs resided. Of the twin 110-story towers, the North Tower was the most distinctive, crowned with its Dielectric broadcast antenna, which added 360 feet to the structure. The list of tenants in the World Trade Center’s North Tower reads like a page out of NYC’s TV Guide: WCBS-TV, Channel 2 (CBS – O&O); WNBC-TV/DT, Channels 4 and 28 (NBC – O&O); WNYW, Channel 5 (FOX – O&O); WABC-TV/DT, Channels 7 and 45 (ABC – O&O); WWOR-TV/DT, Channels 9 and 38 (UPN – FOX O&O); WPIX-TV/DT, Channels 11 and 33 (WB – Tribune O&O); WNET-TV/DT, Channels 13 and 61 (PBS – Educational Broadcast Corp.); WPXN, Channel 31 (PAX Net – Paxson O&O); and WNJU, Channel 47 (Telemundo – O&O).
In addition to these television stations, four FMs were located there: WKCR-FM, 89.9MHz; WPAT-FM, 93.1MHz; WNYC-FM, 93.9MHz; and WKTU-FM, 103.5MHz.
Up until the early 70s, nearly all New York OTA television was broadcast from the Empire State Building. At a height of 1250 feet, the Empire State Building was the tallest building at the time, which made it the logical choice for TV antennas. The addition of the broadcast antenna structure raised the height to 1472 feet to top of antenna.
With the construction of the World Trade Center complex in lower Manhattan, local broadcasters found a new, higher structure for their antennas. Tower 1 was completed in 1972 at a height of 1368 feet and Tower 2 in 1973 at a height of 1362 feet; both 110 stories high. The foundation for each tower had to be extended more than 70 feet below ground level to rest on solid bedrock. From the observation deck of the World Trade Center, it was possible to see 45 miles in every direction.
Few New York viewers realized the catastrophic effect the loss of WTC-1 would have on the broadcast community — and their own viewing habits. Although off the air for a while, WCBS-TV (Channel 2) was able to switch to its auxiliary transmitter located on the Empire State Building. However the remaining stations initially remained dark. About 30 percent of the New York viewing audience depends on over the air (OTA) broadcasting for television reception, so initially many thousands of viewers had little choice in what channels they could watch. Because cable systems in the New York area get their programming via fiber or satellite feeds, those systems continued.
Returning to the air
Major Edwin H. Armstrong's laboratory and first transmission site was thought by most to have been relegated to history. With the WTC tragedy, rather, it has become the foremost important tower site on the East Coast. Shown here is the original laboratory building, which still houses some broadcast equipment.
Within hours of the attack, broadcasters and potential vendors were discussing recovery. With support from a variety of manufacturers, available transmitters were soon identified by Harris, LARCAN, EMCEE and Thales Broadcast and Multimedia (formerly Thomcast). Dielectric, Andrew and RFS began working on transmission line and antennas. The plans were fairly straightforward -- get back on the air as soon as possible, with whatever power was available, from any location. The final location selected by several stations as their new site turned out to be quite significant in broadcast history. The selected location in New Jersey, just west of NYC, was the original site of (Major) Edwin H. Armstrong’s laboratory and first transmission site. His laboratories and a tower remain there today. CBS fared best among the New York broadcasters. With a working backup on the Empire State Building, WCBS is now back at full power in NTSC as well as DTV.
LARCAN shipped a 6KW transmitter to WNBC-TV. Initially there were some issues with the shipment of the LARCAN transmitters across the Canadian/U.S. border but finally, after a thorough inspection by customs and the FBI, the equipment was allowed to enter the U.S. and headed for New York. WNBC-TV also took delivery of a 20KW Harris transmitter in Alpine, NJ.
The Armstrong tower resembles more an electrical power transmission tower than a broadcast one. The three horizontal arms made for difficult broadcast antenna installations. And, until now, it was used primarily for two-way, land mobile and cellular antennas.
Dielectric shipped antennas, feeders and accessories to WCBS-TV2, WNYW-TV5, WABC-TV7, WWOR-TV9, WPIX-TV11, WNET-TV13, WPXN-TV31 and WNJU-TV47.
Andrew Corp. supplied Heliax cable to broadcasters at the emergency New Jersey broadcast site. Andrew also supplied a standby broadcast antenna and transmission line to the Telemundo station in New York. According to Andrew representative, Greta Brown, Andrew also supplied two diplexers and low pass filters to Harris for use on 4 and 11.
Harris shipped new transmitters for WABC-TV, WNBC-TV, WNYW-TV and WWOR-TV on Sept. 11. WNYW-TV (FOX) is now back on the air from the Empire State Building with a 20KW Harris transmitter. A transmitter for WPIX was shipped on Sept. 12, and a new transmitter for WCBS is currently being built.
Thales also delivered a 100KW transmitter to Pax's WPXN-TV (Channel 31) in West Orange, NJ. In the interim, several LPTV stations in East Orange, NJ, and Amityville, Long Island, NY, are carrying the station’s signal. Thales delivered a 100KW transmitter to WNJU-TV, who will be joining the others at the Alpine, NJ, site. WNJU-TV (Telemundo) called EMCEE looking for a UHF transmitter. The manufacturer had a portable 1KW broadband unit in nearby Harrisburg, PA, and it was quickly sent to the station for temporary use.
Harris Broadcast, LARCAN and Thales Broadcast & Multimedia (formerly Thomcast) also redirected transmitters destined for other customers.
WABC-TV will install a 2KW transmitter in Alpine, NJ. The station returned to the air on Saturday, September 15 using a temporary panel antenna.
WWOR-TV plans to resume operations from the Empire State Building soon. They took delivery of a LARCAN 3KW transmitter and a 2KW Harris, while Tribune’s WPIX-TV has opted to use a 10KW Harris in Alpine, NJ.
Everett Helm, director of RF engineering for Oregon Public Broadcasting (Portland, OR) said he’d been asked to ship a 10KW Thomcast loaner transmitter directly to WNET at the Alpine site. WNET was back with a temporary system using a 1KW LARCAN by Thursday, September 13.
Frank Graybill, WNET-TV, said, “The cooperation from broadcasters across the country, manufacturers and vendors has been outstanding.” He said that an engineer in a pickup truck drove up with a load of Heliax transmission line on Wednesday, September 12 and said: “Here it is. Use what you need.” If that wasn’t enough, Graybill said he was pleased and surprised when he was able to get an antenna the same day from MYAT in Norwood, NJ.
Initially there were problems obtaining local property variances for the Alpine, NJ site. Also, because the Alpine sight is some 500 feet lower than WTC-1, few stations were prepared for the drastic changes in their coverage areas. Some stations have decided to install translators to help fill coverage gaps in key areas.
STL feeds
New STLs and, in some cases, TSLs had to be established for the stations at their new sites. Nucomm is located less than an hour away from New York and was able to provide emergency equipment quickly. Nucomm’s president, Dr. John Payne said they received a call on Tuesday from WABC-TV to provide an STL from their studio facilities at Lincoln Square to the new transmitter site in Alpine, NJ. “We sent an engineer with the equipment to assist the ABC engineers and had the link up and running by midday Wednesday September 12.” The company is also providing equipment to WNJU and WNET for feeds to the Alpine site.
Nucomm also provided microwave relay links for New York One, Time Warner Cable’s 24-hour news channel, and ENG systems for WNJU-TV and WNET-TV.
Microwave Radio Communications (MRC) provided STL links for WPIX-TV and WCBS-TV. They are also supplying two-way STL and TSLs for WWOR-TV and WNYW.
The long haul
Irrespective of the equipment and location, the sites everything is being installed in are only temporary. The Empire site does not have the infrastructure to handle increased demand from everyone who wants it.
The next step is for all the affected stations to turn these low-power emergency installations into full-power transmission facilities that can be used for several years. Despite all the talk of rebuilding the Trade Center towers, any reconstruction would be many years in coming. That means the Empire State Building and the Alpine tower are likely to remain the area's primary TV sites for a while. So, while the New York broadcast community was able, with the help of broadcast equipment manufactures and others, to return to the air quickly, a long-term solution is years in the making. One benefit of the delay is likely to be a better mix of backup sites and with new technology, even better coverage for New York viewers.
Lest we forget
Several broadcast engineers were working on WTC-1 when it fell. While they are still officially classified as missing, all readers share a common concern. For the most current information, please visit the New York City SBE Chapter’s website, www.broadcast.net/~sbe15. You will also find information on how to donate to the Broadcast Engineer's Relief Fund that has been established to help the families of those engineers that may have died in the tragedy.
Hammer Films purchases Nothing Real's Tremor HD
Nothing Real, a compositing software provider to the digital content creation market, announced the sale of a Tremor HD compositing system to Hammer Films, a Los Angeles-based trailer production company. Tremor is modeled as a front room, client-based solution, engineered to handle the demanding needs of film, HDTV, commercial video and broadcast production professionals. The sale marks the first installation of the compositing system in the Los Angeles area.
24p HD workshops to be held
The Santa Fe Workshops are offering a high-definition workshop series in Los Angeles, October 6-10. Sponsoring the series are Sony, Fujinon and Gancie Television.
In the HD 24p Advanced Cinematography Workshop, October 6-10, Sony HD specialist Jeff Cree offers an intensive study of the HDCam menu structure for both 24p and 60i. The workshop includes the creative manipulation of camera settings for optimal imaging when shooting for film or television, as well as sessions on lighting, studio set-ups and remote locations.
The HD 24p Operators' Workshop, October 6-8, provides intensive training on Sony's F900 menu system and on the camcorders used in feature films and episodic television. Hands-on instruction is provided by Sony's HD specialists, including Jeff Cree.
Finally, the workshop High Definition Production Guide: From Concept to Post and Beyond, October 8-10, offers producers, directors, editors and production managers with instruction on high-definition productions and how HD changes their approach to all aspects of programming, from development through program delivery.
For more information, contact Gancie Television at 202-885-4280 or at gancietv@aol.com, or visit the Web site at www.santafeworkshops.com.
Avid World & Pro Tools Conference rescheduled
Due to the recent tragic events in New York City, the Avid World & Pro Tools Conference, which was to begin October 7, has been rescheduled for December 9-12, 2001. The event will still be held at its original location, The New Yorker Hotel, and all conference activities, including seminars, speeches, exhibitions and networking functions, remain intact pending further changes.
"We took into account the hundreds of people and companies involved in this event - speakers, exhibitors and delegates - many of whom are flying in from around the country," said Rick Friedman, president & co-founder of Mindshare Ventures, a co-organizer of the event. "It's our desire to give them and local participants more time to recoup from the tragedy. Mayor Giuliani and other local government officials have repeatedly stated that the best way Americans can help the city through this calamity is to continue to bring business to town. And to help out, we've extended the conference's Early Bird Registration discount to November 2, 2001. Together, we will represent the very best that the video and audio fields have to offer."
The Avid World & Pro Tools Conference is a 4-day event that also includes a 2-day expo. Targeted toward sound designers and video editors, the conference will include four parallel tracks of 70-plus classes, keynote speeches and networking events designed to offer users all the information and contacts they need to more effectively use and benefit from Avid's tools and technology. Mindshare Ventures, a producer of vendor-specific audio and video user conferences, and Future Media Concepts, the nation's largest Avid Authorized Education Center, organized the conference, in cooperation with Avid and Digidesign.
For more information about the conference, and for updates on schedule changes, contact Anna Hirvonen at Mindshares Ventures at 212-645-8140 or Jennifer Craigen at D. Pagan Communications at 631-659-2309, ext. 12. Or, visit www.avidworldeast.com.
US TV stations still interested in COFDM over 8VSB
SCRI, a source of market and technology information for broadcast and professional video/audio sectors worldwide, announced the results of its DTV Migration Survey of US TV, which shows that US TV stations are still interested in COFDM over 8VSB, despite the statements of the FCC supporting 8VSB.
According to SCRI's recent survey of US TV stations, when excluding the 18 percent of stations that were unsure, just under half of all stations (45 percent) are interested on some level (extremely, very or somewhat) in making the move from 8VSB to COFDM. Just over half (53 percent) are interested in going directly to COFDM.
Considering the fact that the largest supporters of COFDM own a considerable number of stations, mostly in markets 100 or smaller, it is easy to see how these numbers stack up.
Each modulation system has its own merits: COFDM appears to work better close-in to the transmitter and in places where there are highly reflective structures or terrain, whereas 8VSB appears to work better at distances away from the transmitter and over longer distances. Irrespective of the attributes of either, the FCC has said on several occasions that 8VSB is the standard that will be used in the United States, ignoring the fact that 8VSB is not a world standard like COFDM.
COFDM has the added advantage of on frequency repeaters. Since repeaters are a way of life west of the Great Plains, it would appear to be a wise move as far as spectrum management is concerned. There are 10 states that have 300+ repeaters extending the coverage of local televison stations. As one television station general manager said, "If it weren't for my repeaters, I would not be able to cover my market or make the station pay for itself, and we only have eight here in the 200th market."
The change-out of an exciter stack at the transmitter would, most likely, be the only expense a station would have to bear should it decide to make the transition from 8VSB to COFDM. As the industry reaches the 200+ digital television stations on the air, it would be prudent to make this change or permit either modulation scheme now rather than to wait. It is unlikely, at this time, for that to happen. In a smaller market where a station has alreay gone online with 8VSB, this would not be a particularly welcome move, irrespective of advantages or disadvantages. Last, but not least, the additional cost of a dual standard (8VSB and COFDM) digital television receiver to a potential purchaser could stand as an additional deterrent in a marketplace where DTV receivers are already considered rather pricey.
The current total number of US TV stations broadcasting in digital is 208. Sixty-eight markets now have stations transmitting DTV signals that serve 69.39 percent of US TV households.
For more information, visit SCRI International's Web site at www.scri.com
News Technology Group selects Fujinon HD lenses
The News Technology Group, a unit of the News Corporation, has purchased a full set of eight Fujinon HD Cine-Style Prime lenses and two HA10x5 and HA20x7.8 Cine-Style Zoom lenses for specialty production work on episodic television programs. The lenses, delivered in early August for use on Panasonic HDC-27V and Philips LDK7000 high-definition cameras, have recently been used for film-style production on "Titus," as seen on the Fox Network in prime time, and for production of "Bernie Mac," a new Fox sitcom.
"The Fujinon lenses feature a greater range on the focus knob, and the overall scope of the focus and zoom gears make them suitable for film-style production," said Jim DeFilippis, vice president Television Engineering, News Technology Group. "When adjusting the focus on these lenses, the image size remains constant, therefore providing minimal focus breathing. Along with their ease of use, these lenses are capturing high-quality images."
Thomcast renamed as Thales Broadcast & Multimedia
Thomcast, an international broadcast, multimedia and wireless communications company, announced the rebranding of its global operations, with a new corporate identity and a new name: Thales Broadcast & Multimedia, effective immediately. The move follows the December 2000 renaming of parent company Thales (formerly Thomson-CSF).
Thales Broadcast & Multimedia, headquartered in Conflans, France, has operations in the USA (Southwick, MA, and Mountaintop, PA); France (Conflans and Cesson-Sevigne); Switzerland (Turgi); and Germany (Mannheim). Thales Broadcast & Multimedia has changed the company's brand to reflect the complete breadth and depth of its products and services. In the past several years, Thomcast has transitioned from a pure transmitter company to a global player involved with terrestrial transmission, MPEG-2 video processing, multimedia distribution and wireless communications.
Former ADC Broadband Wireless Group announces new name & appointments
The former ADC Broadband Wireless Group will operate under a new name, Axcera, and pursue new opportunities for growth. Addressing the needs of the fast-growing, worldwide digital television market, Axcera will remain a supplier of low-, medium- and high-power digital and analog television systems, continuing to offer a complete line of transmitters, translators and exciter systems. On the broadband wireless side of the business, Axcera will continue to enable Multichannel Multipoint Distribution System license holders to deploy flexible, cost-effective solutions for the last mile.
In related news, Axcera announced the appointments of two veteran executives to lead the new company. David Neff will serve as president & CEO, and Ken Foutz will serve as senior vice president & COO. Together, they have more than 55 years of experience in the broadcast, MMDS and broadband wireless markets, nearly 35 of those years with the company.
Pinnacle Systems acquires video software business from FAST Multimedia
Pinnacle Systems announced that it has entered into a definitive agreement to acquire the assets of FAST Multimedia, a developer of video editing solutions, headquartered in Munich, Germany. Pinnacle Systems plans to integrate FAST's products into its family of video, authoring and streaming solutions.
Pinnacle Systems will acquire all intellectual property, software rights, products, other assets and certain liabilities of FAST Multimedia. The purchase price will be approximately $15 million and will be paid for in a combination of cash and Pinnacle Systems' stock. The transaction will be accounted for as a purchase and is expected to close in early October.
"This acquisition furthers Pinnacle's expanding family of software applications and solutions to provide higher value-add for our customers," said Mark Sanders, Pinnacle Systems president & CEO. "FAST's advanced software for video content creation fills an important gap between our consumer editing software products and our high-end broadcast systems."
NBC has made a three-year strategic technology agreement estimated up to $25 million to deploy Grass Valley Group solutions in support of the network’s companywide central-casting, news production, media asset management and high-definition playback.
Thomson Multimedia has made an agreement with Royal Philips Electronics for the purchase by Thomson of Philips’ Content Creation activity for professional broadcast markets, as part of Philips Digital Networks’ MP4Net Group.
ABC Television has purchased a Panasonic DVCPRO HD production system comprised of an AJ-HDC27A and an AJ-HD150 studio VTR. The Panasonic camcorder and recorder will be primarily used to capture and edit high-profile programming.
WTBS, Turner Broadcasting System selected Thomcast’s DCX Millennium transmitter system for its digital conversion. In addition to TBS’ purchases, the DCX Millennium was the transmitter of choice for two PBS member stations, WEDN in Norwich, CT, and WHRO, the public telecommunications center for Hampton Roads, VA.
The nation’s smallest market station on the air with a digital channel, WBOC-TV, Salisbury, MD, has purchased Panasonic’s AJ-HDC20A DVCPROHD camcorder and AJ-HD150 DVCPRO HD studio VTR.
WHDT-TV has purchased six AJ-HD2700 1080i/720p switchable VTRs and has three AJ-HD3700H D-5 HD multiformat mastering VTRs from Panasonic. The station will initiate over-the-air HD broadcasting in late July and will be carried by the Adelphia and Time Warner cable system, with a combined potential reach of six million viewers throughout south Florida.
Quantel has moved its North American headquarters to New Canaan, CT. The company’s new address is 199 Elm Street, New Canaan, CT, 06840. The new telephone number is 203- 972-3199 and fax number is 203-972-3189.
The New York Times Company will standardize on Grass Valley Group digital switchers, deploying Kalypso Video Production Center and Zodiak systems across its broadcast properties. The New York Times will deploy the systems across its entire station group, which includes WHNT-TV, Huntsville, AL.; KFSM-TV, Fort Smith, AR.; WHO-TV, Des Moines, IA; WQAD-TV, Moline, IL.; KFOR-TV, Oklahoma City; WNEP-TV, Scranton, PA; WREG-TV, Memphis, TN; and WTKR-TV, Norfolk, VA.
WRAL-TV, Raleigh, NC, has chosen a Wheatstone TV-80 series audio console to produce the audio for its HD newscasts. WRAL-TV was the first station in the United States to broadcast an HDTV signal in 1996 and is the world’s first news operation to present HD local news on a continuous basis.
Two Solid State Logic consoles were recently added to the National Mobile Television fleet of trucks. The 48-fader SSL Axiom-MT digital broadcast console will be installed in a new all-digital truck that will be used for FOX Sports NFL broadcasts in Dolby Digital surround sound.
Bexel Corporation has purchased 10 LDK 23HS MKII super slow motion cameras from THOMSON Multimedia Broadcast & Network Solutions. The cameras will be available from Bexel’s headquarters in Burbank and their rental locations in New York, Miami, Atlanta, Dallas, Seattle, Washington DC and Orange County, CA.
FloriCal has been awarded the contract by NBC to automate all of the NBC-owned-and-operated TV stations in the United States.
Fox Digital has purchased four Philips’ LDK 7000 Digital Cinematography cameras for use in television productions by the FOX group of companies.
TANDBERG Television has acquired AVS. The AVS’ RF technology will enable TANDBERG Television to maximize on Digital Electronic Newsgathering global market opportunities.
Encoda Systems has appointed Greg M. Jacobsen as chief executive officer. His most recent position was as president and CEO of XOR, Inc., an Internet integration company.
Communications Engineering, Inc. has appointed Bill Beckner as integration manager and Joe Strobel as project manager.
Videotek has promoted Polo Recuay to vice president of engineering. Recuay’s primary responsibilities will include directing new product development in engineering as well as supporting the existing product line. In addition to Recuay, Videtek appointed Jochen Kuhnen as the International Sales Manager.
Scopus has appointed Steven Bonica as president. He will have full responsibility of Scopus marketing and sales activities in North America.
Don Bird has accepted the position of vice president of sales and marketing for both U.S. and international operations at Avica Technology.
Jerry Gepner has been appointed president of National Mobile Television. As president Gepner will be responsible for all aspects of sales and technology. His prior position was as executive vice president, operations and engineering, FOX Sports Networks.
Noah Meiri has filled the position of president at Orad Hi-Tec Systems. Meiri was previously the managing director at Orad.
A 20-year software development veteran Stephen Chalkley has been appointed the engineering development manager at ANT Limited.
David Youlton steps down from Snell & Wilcox chairmanship
Professor David Youlton has announced that he is to step down from the chairmanship of Snell & Wilcox, the company he has headed for the past 13 years. This move completes the senior management handover initiated in January 2000, when the Board appointed John Spencer to the post of CEO. Youlton will remain chairman of the Snell & Wilcox Advisory Board.
Explaining his decision to Snell & Wilcox staff, Youlton said that having invested massively over the last 12 years in research and development, the emphasis now needs to change.
"Being entirely privately held, investing only our own revenue into growth, has given us the creative freedom to develop a pre-eminent portfolio of technology and intellectual property and an outstanding global brand," he said. "Now, however, the company needs access to greater funding sources in order to take fuller advantage of the many commercial opportunities made available to us because of our technological leadership. That's why we are currently organizing suitable external investment prior to an eventual IPO. It seems to me that this imminent change of status and culture, from private to public, represents an appropriate juncture for me to bow out of the day-to-day operations of the company."
Industry events cancelled due to events of September 11
Sep 11, 2001 - Due to the tragic events that took place the morning of September 11, 2001, in New York City and Washington, DC, several broadcast-industry events have been cancelled or rescheduled.
RTNDA: Nashville - Due to the national emergency, the Board of Directors of the Radio-Television News Directors Association has canceled the 2001 RTNDA International Conference & Exhibition scheduled to begin September 12, 2001, in Nashville. The RTNDA board resolution reads as follows:
"Whereas a national emergency has been caused by multiple acts of violence involving public and private entities, and
Whereas the members of RTNDA feel a deep obligation to serve the public in this time of national crisis, and
Whereas the shutdown of the nation's air traffic system renders it impossible for thousands of potential attendees to reach the convention site, and
Whereas the exhibitors at the meeting have informed the board they are unable to conduct business under these circumstances because of the crisis,
Therefore, the Board of Directors of the Radio-Television News Directors Association hereby cancels the 2001 RTNDA International Conference & Exhibition."
As many as 4,000 attendees had been expected at the Nashville convention.
The Radio-Television News Directors Association is the world's largest professional organization devoted exclusively to electronic journalism. RTNDA represents local and network news executives in broadcasting, cable and other electronic media in more than 30 countries.
SBE 22 Regional Convention and SBE National Meeting: Verona, NY - SBE President Andy Butler and President-Elect Troy Pennington announced that the SBE National Meetings scheduled for this week in Verona, NY, have been cancelled. This decision was made out of respect for the loss of life as a result of the attacks on New York City and Washington DC.
The SBE National Meeting has not yet been rescheduled.
A message was sent from the SBE Chapter 22 Convention office stating that the convention has been postponed until November 28.
XM Satellite Service Launch: Washington, DC, San Diego and Dallas - Due to today's national tragedy, XM Satellite Radio has postponed the launch of its commercial service in San Diego and Dallas scheduled for September 12, as well as events in those cities and Washington, DC, related to the service launch. The thoughts and prayers of all XM employees go out to those affected by these horrible events.
111th AES Convention: New York City - Official Statement of the Audio Engineering Society:
In view of the tragic events that took place yesterday there has been a lot of speculation as to whether the AES 111th Convention would proceed next week, as planned. There were several factors to be taken into consideration and a necessity to have discussions with other parties. For this reason we did not make a hasty statement.
We have just returned from the Javits Center where we had a meeting with its top management. We learned that the New York City Mayor's Office of Emergency Management and the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) have taken over large portions of the Javits Center for use in coordinating emergency services. We also learned that FEMA will have complete control of these spaces and any others that they need, for an undetermined period. This obviously makes holding the event as planned impossible. However, we were able to reschedule the convention, rather than just cancel it. Most of the people who contacted us hoped that this would be the solution.
The new dates will be Friday, November 30 to Monday, December 3, 2001, with the same exhibit, demo and conference space as {were originally scheduled].
We at the Audio Engineering Society would like to thank those of you who took the time and trouble to inquire about the safety of the staff here in the New York Office and to wish us well and give us your support. This was much appreciated.
Lastly at this sad time, we would like to spare a thought for those who have had their lives so much more severely disrupted than any of us. We were, and are, very sensitive to their feelings. Let us hope that we can look forward to better times ahead.
NAB/ALTV/MSTV file comments on DTV must-carry issue
The National Association of Broadcasters, joined by Maximum Service Television and Association of Local Television Stations, have filed further comments on the issue of DTV must-carry with the FCC. The submission provides data on cable system capacity that refutes the cable industry’s argument that carriage of broadcasters’ DTV signals would be burdensome. It also provides documentation of the cable industry’s reluctance to degotiate DTV carriage, disputing the indsutry’s call for a reliance on “marketplace solutions.” For full-text of the submission visit www.nab.org/Newsroom/Issues/digitaltv/mustcarrycomments8-17-01.pdf.
Avid to host conference in October
Avid Technology will host a conference in New York, NY October 7-10, 2001. At the conference participants will be able to participate in special events such as The Avid World Conference Sessions, the Pro Tools Conference, the Digital Production Summit, Pre-Conference Workshops and much more. The first ever Avid World East Conference is created to hone technical skills of the participants while enhancing their creative potential. For more information on the conference visit www.avidworldeast.com.
Huge Systems opens in Marina del Rey
Huge Systems, a new manufacturer of RAID 3 Sotrage Solutions for SDTV and HDTV applications, has opened in Marina del Rey, Calif. and recently exhibited their HugeMediaVault family of products at SIGGRAPH 2001. The company was founded last year by Michael H. Anderson and Tina Bow. Huge Systems was founded to build the next generation of storage solutions for the digital media marketplace. The company is committed to providing reliable, secure products that are simple to operate and cost effective to purchase. HugeMediaVault, the company’s first product line, meets all these objectives.
Videotek digital Prodigy switcher installed
New York’s Fordham University has recently completed building an all-digital television production studio located on the ground floor of the Walsh Library. At the core of the studio, which is part of Fordham’s Electronic Information Center is Videotek’s Digital Prodigy switcher. The system design, planning and physical construction of the studio by Video Corporation of America along with Videotek’s equipment has paved the way for the University’s advancement into today’s hottest technological trends.
Telestream teams with IBM to offer wireless streaming
Telestream has teamed with IBM to provide integrated media transcoding solutions. Among the arrangements is the availability of Telestream’s FlipFactory OnDemand streaming media application as a plug-in to the IBM WebSphere transcoding publisher V4.0. In addition, Telestream’s FlipFactory is now certified as an IBM ServerProven business solution and Telestream has authorization as an IBM reseller for bundled solutions.
WHDT selects Panasonic D-5 HD
WHDT-TV, West Palm Beach, FL, has become the nation’s first HDTV-only station. WHDT had selected the use of D-5 HD VTRs from Panasonic Broadcast. The station has purchased six AJ-HD2700 1080i/720p switchable VTRs and has three AJ-HD3700H D-5 HD multi-format mastering VTRs on order. The station will initiate over-the-air HD broadcasting and will be carried by the Adelphia and Time Warner cable systems (digital and analog), with a combined potential reach of six million viewers throughout South Florida.
Surround 2001 Conference and Showcase
The third annual Surround 2001 Conference and Showcase has announced its return to the Beverly Hills Hilton in Beverly Hills, Calif., from December 7-8, 2001. Surround 2001 is designed to provide industry professionals in music recording, film, television, game development, theatrical events and home theater with hands-on, how-to experience with multichannel audio production technology. Its conference program features tutorials on the latest production techniques. For more information about the conference or to register, visit www.surroundpro.com or call 800-294-7605, ext. 507.
Industry forecast is optimistic
Media merchant bank Veronis Suhler has released the 15th annual edition of its Communications Industry Forecast (CIF), projecting a marked spending slowdown in most industry segments this year. However, the firm takes a more optimistic near-term perspective, predicting overall industry growth at an annual rate of 5.6 percent from 2001-2005, outpacing the 5 percent growth rate of the Gross Domestic Product and reaching $738 billion in total spending by 2005. For more information on the Veronis Suhler CIF, please visit www.veronissuhler.com.
Audio Precision launches online resource center
Audio Precision has launched an online solutions resource center. The Solutions Resource Center will provide easy access to Audio Precision’s audio test information and resources to help engineers throughout tall phases of audio testing for a variety of applications. The Solutions Resource Center offers measurement solutions for numerous applications; diagrams showing the major components of test systems; itemized lists of what is needed to assemble the right tests for particular applications for everything from Dolby AC3 and DVD testing, to transducer testing, to broadcast transmission testing; and, links to further information, such as in-depth technical notes. To use the resource center go to http://audiotest.com/solutions/.
Panasonic announces HD seminar series
Panasonic Broadcast & Television Systems has announced a series of free HD seminars for cinematographers and videographers interested in the latest digital production techniques. Seminar locations include Washington, D.C. on August 23; New York, NY on August 30; Detroit, MI on September 6; and Chicago, IL on September 10. Anyone can register online for the HD production seminars at www.panasonic.com/hdproduction or call 1-800-528-8601, extension 100.
SGI reaches sales milestones
SGI has recently achieved several sales milestones in past few months. Since the launch of the NUMAflex modular computing approach just one year ago, the company has shipped close to 30,000 processors of SGI Origin 3000 series servers and SGI Onyx 3000 series visualization systems. In addition they also have sold more than 500 SGI Reality Center immersive visualization facility.
SDTV usage survey
SCRI International has released the results of a DTV Migration Survey of production and post facilities. The survey shows that usage of standard definition digital video is starting to take off. One in three production and post facilities are reporting having an all SD digital production facility. By the year 2003 the statistic should increase to two thirds of all facilities and by 2005 almost three out of four facilities should have an all SD digital production facility. To view the survey go to www.scri.com/sc_reprt.html.
The battle over wireless control
Technology research firm Summit Strategies has released a report that analyzes the factors driving growth in wireless data applications in North America and the resulting opportunity for vendors. In the report, titled, "Can U.S. wireless firms ride business applications to global leadership?," Summit Strategies practice director Warren Wilson argues that U.S. vendors and service providers stand to win the strategic high ground-first in their home markets, then internationally.
A follow-up report, scheduled for publication in September 2001, will examine the cross-industry ecosystems required to create compelling next-generation wireless applications and to most effectively bring them to market.
For more information about the report email Katie Lybrook with Summit Strategies.
Peachy worm alert
TV stations often use PDF files as print versions of on-air graphics for client approval. However, due to the arrival on August 8th of the new “Peachy” worm, some may be encouraged to take extra precautions.
Vigilinx, a security firm, is alerting customers of a new worm that is being sent throughout the Internet concealed as an Adobe portable document file (PDF). The “PeachyPDF” worm transmits itself through the user’s Outlook address book. Unlike some other viruses, the Peachy worm sends itself not only to the first 100 addresses in the user’s address book, but also the user’s alternative addresses.
The worm first appears in one’s email as a document that invites the user to find the peach within a one minute countdown. As soon as the user clicks on the icon “show the solution,” the worm propagates.
The worm has one significant limitation. It becomes activated only if the user is running a full version of Adobe Acrobat. Just using the Adobe Acrobat reader, which most users have, will not activate the worm.
Protection patches are available from Symantec, McAfee and Central Command.
Video Design Software acquire Chyron product line
Video Design Software (VDS) has acquired the assets and operations of the Liberty Software product line from Chyron Corporation. The two companies have entered into a new strategic relationship whereby all sales, marketing, technical development and customer service/support of the Liberty Paint and Animation design software will be transferred to VDS. This was effective August 1, 2001.
Omneon partners with Building4Media
Omneon Video Networks and Building4Media B.V. are partnering to provide solutions based on Omneon’s Networked Content Server and Building4Media’s FORK content delivery software. The FORK software product will be used as the basis for the Streaming Production Center to be launched by Action TV B.V. in Hilversum in the Netherlands.
Jurassic Park III available in D-Cinema
Sunset Digital has performed the digital mastering for Jurassic Park III for digital cinema theatrical release. The film is currently showing in d-cinema format at twelve theaters in the United States and Canada. Sunset produced the images in their newly commissioned D-Cinemastage studio. The studio consists of a 10’x25’ theater screen, a Christie DLP chip projector, a Cintel C-Reality film scanner, a da Vinci 2K color corrector and a THX certified sound system, Sunset’s D-cCinemastage is essentially a large telecine bay that allows for the mastering of true digital cinema projects as they are processed.
Crimson Media selects Storage Computer
Crimson Media has selected Crimson Media to develop their multi-phased project. Storage Computer will develope and install a media asset management, delivery and digital rights system. The initial implementations of the multi-phased contract exceeds $1.35 million, with the total potential purchase valued more than $2 million.
The installation will include Storage COmputer's Cyber Media Server adn CyberFibre products that provide storage, storage hosting and high-speed delivery of media content into a storage-wide-area-network environment.
Grass Valley Group forms alliance
NBC has made a three-year strategic technology agreement estimated up to $25 million to deploy Grass Valley Group solutions in support of the Network’s company-wide central casting, news production, media asset management, and high-definition playback.
Thomson makes purchase
Thomson Multimedia has made an agreement with Royal Philips Electronics for the purchase by Thomson of Philips’ Content Creation activity for professional broadcast markets, as part of Philips Digital Networks’ MP4Net Group.
ABC makes Panasonic purchases
ABC Television has purchased a Panasonic DVCPRO HD production system comprised of an AJ-HDC27A and an AJ-HD150 studio VTR. The Panasonic AJ-HDC27A camcorder and AJHD150 recorder will be primarily used to capture and edit high-profile programming.
WTBS selects Thomcast transmitters
WTBS, Turner Broadcasting System selected Thomcast’s DCX Millennium, transmitter system for its digital conversion. In addition to TBS’s purchases, the DCX Millennium was the transmitter of choice for two PBS member stations, WEDN in Norwich, Connecticut and WHRO, the public telecommunications center for Hampton Roads, Va.
WBOC-TV selects Panasonic
The nation’s smallest market station on the air with a digital channel, WBOC-TV, Salisbury, Md., has purchased Panasonic’s AJ-HDC20A DVCPROHD camcorder and AJ-HD150 DVCPRO HD studio VTR.
New Centrury Installs Calrec
New Century Productions in Pennsylvania has installed a Calrec Audio 60 channel Q2 analog console in their new 53-foot expanding trailer NCP V. The desk is a 120 fader (24 stereo) desk with eight crossfade channels, a four channel compressor/limiter and noise gate and a 60x32 matrix.
WHDT-TV makes purchases
WHDT-TV has purchased six AJ-HD2700 1080i/720p switchable VTRs and has three AJ-HD3700H D-5 HD multi-format mastering VTRs from Panasonic. The station will initiate over-the-air HD broadcasting in late July, and will be carried by the Adelphia and Time Warner cable system, with a combined potential reach of six million viewers throughout South Florida.
Quantel moves North American headquarters
Quantel has moved its North American headquarters to New Canaan, Conn. The company’s new address is 199 Elm Street, New Canaan, Connecticut 06840. The new telephone number is (203) 972-3199 and fax number is (203) 972-3189.
Grass Valley Group switchers used
New York Times Company will standardize on Grass Valley Group digital switchers, deploying Kalypso Video Production Center and Zodiak systems across its broadcast properties. The New York Times will deploy the Kalypso and Zodiak systems across its entire station group, which includes WHNT-TV, Huntsville, Ala.; KFSM-TV, Fort Smith, Ark.; WHO-TV, Des Moines, Iowa; WQAD-TV, Moline, Ill.; KFOR-TV, Oklahoma City, Okla.; WNEP-TV, Scranton, Pa.; WREG-TV, Memphis, Tenn.; and WTKR-TV, Norfolk, Va.
LSI makes alliance
LSI Logic Storage Systems has made a strategic alliance with Doyle Technology Consultants. Doyle will integrate LSI’s MetaStor storage systems with platforms and video applications from a wide range of vendors to deliver a Storage Area Network solution engineered for major media, broadcasters, cable and satellite operators, and production and post-production houses.
WRAL-TV selects Wheatstone
WRAL-TV, Raleigh, N.C., has chosen a Wheatstone TV-80 series audio console to produce the audio for its HD newscasts. WRAL-TV was the first station in the U.S. to broadcast a HDTV signal in 1996, and is the world’s first news operation to present HD local news on a continuous basis.
Solid State Logic consoles used
Two Solid State Logic consoles were recently added to the National Mobile Television fleet of trucks. The 48-fader SSL Axiom-MT Digital Broadcast Console will be installed in a new all-digital truck that will be used for FOX Sports NFL broadcasts in Dolby Digital surround sound.
Encoda and Grass Valley Group used
Encoda Systems will provide a complete automation package including DAL Playlist Manager automation software and two Grass Valley Group XP Series servers to KUSI, San Diego. The equipment will be used in combination with the station’s existing JDS traffic system, also from Encoda.
WHDT-TV selects Ktech Communications
WHDT-TV of West Palm Beach, Fla. has selected 1KW transmitters from Ktech Telecommunications. The DTV transmitters will include the digitally implemented 8VSB Modulator with automatic linear and non-linear pre-correction capability.
Bexel makes purchases from Thomson
Bexel Corporation has purchased 10 LDK 23HS MKII super slow motion cameras from THOMSON multimedia Broadcast & Network Solutions. The cameras will be available from Bexel’s headquarters in Burbank and their rental locations in New York, Miami, Atlanta, Dallas, Seattle, Washington DC and Orange County, California.
Florical awarded contract
FloriCal has been awarded the contract by NBC to automate all of the NBC owned and operated TV stations in the U.S.
DTV timetable survey
SCRI International conducted a DTV Migration Survey of Broadcast and Production/Post Facilities. The results showed that the FCC's DTV timetable is in jeopardy of being met. Almost two out of three U.S. TV stations do not expect the FCC timetable to be met by all stations, while only one in four expect the FCC timetable to be met. To read the entire story, please go to www.scri.com/press99_scri72701.html
Keslow purchases Sony recorders
Keslow Television has become the first rental house to purchase Sony’s MAV-555 digital disk recorders for its rental clientele. The equipment will be used by clientele who specialize in live events, news and sports programming.
Tektronix's NetSeminar available
Tektronix’s “Critical Measurements in standard and high definition SDI environments” NetSeminar is now available in archive form. The original NetSeminar aired on Tuesday, July 31, 2001 and lasted one hour. The NetSeminar is intended for technicians and engineers in broadcasting, post production and video equipment design environments. In the seminar participants learn what the critical measurements for SD and HD signals are, how to make those measurements and about a tool that will enable them to do so. To view the NetSeminar go to www.netseminar.com/index.cgi/archive2.htm.
PEOPLE
Videotek has promoted Polo Recuay to vice president of engineering. Recuay’s primary responsibilities will include directing new product development in engineering as well as supporting the existing product line. In addition to Recuay, Videtek appointed Jochen Kuhnen as the International Sales Manager.
Encoda Systems has appointed Greg M. Jacobsen as chief executive officer. His most recent position was as President and CEO of XOR, Inc., an Internet integration firm.
Jerry Gepner has been appointed president of National Mobile Television. As president Gepner will be responsible for all aspects of sales and technology. His prior position was as executive vice president, operations & engineering, FOX Sports Networks.
Communications Engineering, Inc. has appointed Bill Beckner as integration manager and Joe Strobel as project manager.
Scopus has appointed Steven Bonica as president. He will have full responsibility of Scopus marketing and sales activities in North America.
Don Bird has accepted the position of vice president of sales and marketing for both U.S. and international operations at Avica Technology.
Noah Meiri has filled the position of president at Orad Hi-Tec Systems. Meiri was previously the managing director at Orad.
A 20-year software development veteran Stephen Chalkley has been appointed the engineering development manager at ANT Limited.
