Harris Corporation Introduces HView SX Pro Multi-Display Management Solution for Broadcast and Production

Harris has raised the bar in multi-display technology for live production, outside broadcast (OB) and other video/audio processing needs by introducing  HView™ SX Pro —  the broadcast industry’s most scalable, highest-density multi-display management system.

The HView SX Pro extends Harris’ HView multiviewer range, delivering a compact new signal processing and monitoring option for control room environments.  Its advanced design is smaller, sharper and smarter than competitive solutions — reducing space, power and complexity while offering superior picture quality and intelligent, flexible control options.  Its high-density design accommodates more sources and outputs in fewer rack units to reduce system and installation costs.

The HView SX Pro moves beyond the traditional multiviewer to become a true multi-display management solution with many control options

Harris customers can use the HView SX Pro as a standalone solution or integrated within Harris^® Platinum™ routers.  Harris pioneered the tighter integration of routing systems with multiviewers, audio processing (mux/demux), frame synchronization and advanced input/output options in a single frame to simplify deployments, reduce space and lower operating costs.

The HView SX Pro offers low-latency processing and enhances image quality through Harris MicroFine scaling technology.  Versatile, built-in control features maximize display options, from single-surface video wall configurations to multi-unit or multi-room systems.  These and other advanced options push HView SX Pro beyond the traditional multiviewer function to a true multi-display management solution.

“Live broadcast and production environments have become increasingly complex as the number of signal sources increase, increasing the need to simplify monitoring processes across facilities,” said Harris Morris, president, Harris Broadcast Communications.  “Harris has made significant strides in multi-display processing that help to minimize costs for our customers without compromise to quality and innovation.”

The Harris SX Pro will debut at CABSAT 2012, taking place February 28 to March 1 at the Dubai International Convention and Exhibition Centre (Stand S3-A21, Sheikh Saeed Hall), and will follow   in North America at the 2012 NAB Show, taking place April 16-19 at the Las Vegas Convention Center (Booth N2502).

Harris Boosts Flexiva Transmitter Range, Demonstrates Power Efficiency at NAB

At the 2012 NAB Show, Harris Broadcast Communications will demonstrate how radio broadcasters can maximize transmission efficiency across all power levels — most notably for high-power HD Radio™, FM and AM broadcast operations.

Last year, Harris introduced its Flexiva™ range of quad-mode, solid-state transmitters in low-to-mid power models, boasting a single, highly power-efficient platform to support analog and global digital standards.  This year, the company will introduce two new high-power models (30kW and 40kW) for broadcasters that need to minimize operating costs while covering large areas — including analog FM and high-power HD Radio via elevated sideband levels.

Harris Flexiva radio broadcast transmitters have expanded into higher power 30kW and 40kW models

The Flexiva exciter will also debut at the 2012 NAB Show, featuring rock-solid digital, direct-to-channel modulation for maximum on-air stability.  Web-based monitoring and control, a host of expansion options and upgrade paths to HD Radio and DRM+ make the Flexiva exciter a feature-rich yet simple and cost-effective alternative to the Harris FlexStar^® HDx exciter.  Both exciters are well-suited for Flexiva transmitters at any power level.

Harris will also demonstrate its high-power 3DX Destiny^® AM transmitter range for Modulation Dependent Carrier Level (MDCL) applications, delivering exceptional power efficiency to high-power AM broadcasters via Harris Adaptive Carrier Control Plus (ACC+) systems.  Harris ACC+ systems help AM broadcasters reduce average power consumption by approximately 35 percent — sharply reducing operating costs associated with high-power AM broadcasting.

All Harris Flexiva and 3DX transmitters leverage Harris^® PowerSmart^® technology to increase power density, reduce footprint, and improve reliability through simpler designs and better operational efficiency.

“Radio broadcasters continue to seek greater operational efficiency through compact and modular transmitter designs,” said Richard Redmond, vice president of product strategy and management for transmission systems, Harris Broadcast Communications.  “Harris continues to develop new strategies and technologies that give our customers great performance with lower operating costs.”

Harris will also show its latest generation FlexStar importer and exporter models (HDI200 and HDE200) for more efficient management of HD Radio multicast signals comprising main and supplemental program audio channels.  The NAB 2012 Show also marks the first spring show demonstration of IP backhaul capabilities within the Harris Intraplex^® HD Link™ fixed microwave STL system.  This upgrade enables tighter integration of RF and IP capabilities for single-channel or multicast program transport.

(HD Radio™ is a proprietary trademark of iBiquity Digital Corp.)

Harris Emphasizes Customer-Centric Philosophy at Digital Signage Expo

Harris comes to the Digital Signage Expo with an approach that emphasizes intimacy over grandeur in its exhibition — and spreads its digital out-of-home (DOOH) message throughout the venue and beyond with engaging content displays, informative presentations and participation in a guided tour.

“The Digital Signage Expo is the premier North American event for the digital signage industry,” said Denise MacDonell, general manager, Harris Digital Out-Of-Home solutions.  “For Harris, it’s the primary industry event for building relationships and closing business.  The intimacy of the hospitality suite environment will allow us to more closely engage with customers and offer one-on-one demonstrations of our comprehensive solutions for retail, hospitality, sports, live entertainment and other businesses.”

Hospitality suite demonstrations include capabilities to host and support a new interactive web application for Harris® InfoCaster™ software.  The embedded application incorporates HTML5 language and dynamic Flash technology to create a true interactive experience for consumers engaged through digital signage.  Customers in retail environments, for example, can launch a web browser to locate items for sale in the store — creating an immersive brand experience that links the in-store and online experiences.

Harris will also showcase new features of its Punctuate™ campaign management software, including functionality that allows for superior scheduling of audio, video stills and animations.  The Harris hospitality suite will also feature the “Harris Wireless Zone,” providing free web access for customers.

Harris will showcase content from key customers elsewhere on the floor.  Last year, Harris announced its 7-Eleven network deal on the floor of the Digital Signage Expo; this year, the company will share the ongoing success of the network, displaying content seen today at 4,344 7-Eleven stores across the country at the LG booth #500).  Harris will also show content created for the Automotive Broadcast Network at the Samsung booth (#811), which is now rolling out its Harris DOOH network at the first of approximately 1,000 auto dealerships targeted through the end of 2012.

Harris will also present five papers this year — a record amount for Harris at the Digital Signage Expo. Presentations include:

• Broadcast Mobile DTV and Digital Signage Applications — Don Hewitt, customer solutions manager, will provide insight into how Mobile DTV enables mobile digital signage applications, including the opportunities and challenges for future adoption.  Location TBD: Tuesday, March 6 from 2:15-3:15 p.m.
• Got Scale? — Director of Business Development Carre Dawson, along with industry experts from ABC Media, will discuss how to successfully scale large advertising-driven DOOH networks.  Theater A: Wednesday, March 7 from 10:45-11:15 a.m.
• Taking Sports Digital Signage Beyond the Traditional Screen — Mike Arthur, general manager for Sports and Live Events, explores how venue operators can make high-impact multi-media presentations.  Location TBD: Wednesday, March 7 from 2:15-3:15 p.m.
• 7-Eleven One Year Later: What it Takes to Execute a Massive DOOH Network — Project Executive Greg Weitz walks you through the ins and outs of successfully deploying the largest DOOH network in North America.  Theater B: Thursday, March 8 from 10:45-11:15 a.m.
• Digital Signage: Powering the Fan Experience — Mike Arthur discusses how fan engagement can help define content strategy and monetization for digital signage in the sports venue space. Location TBD: Thursday, March 8 from 2:15-3:15 p.m.

Harris will also showcase its successful World Market Center DOOH installation on the Digital Signage Expo’s sixth annual Guided Installation Tour.  Visit http://www.digitalsignageexpo.net/digital-signage-guided-installation-tour for more details.

Technomad Mass Notification System Powers Outdoor Audio at Western Washington University

Western Washington University‘s sprawling campus in scenic Bellingham stretches 215 acres, with nearly 15,000 students walking the grounds during the fall and spring semesters.  The university gives prominence to campus safety, recently upgrading its fire alarm system in 47 buildings and adding a mass notification system to improve audio quality and long-distance coverage.

Mills Electric Co., a Bellingham-based electrical and systems contractor serving the commercial and industrial markets, installed the multi-zone audio system in conjunction with Western Washington University support staff.  Technomad Berlin narrow dispersion loudspeakers exclusively power three outdoor zones at campus-designated “gathering areas.”

Berlin narrow dispersion loudspeakers are powered by Technomad PowerChiton loudspeakers, reproducing loud and clear voice across the campus

Technomad PowerChiton high-power waterproof amplifier modules drive live and pre-recorded messages to the loudspeakers for campus-wide broadcast.  The project also marries all indoor/outdoor PA points and associated pan/tilt/zoom cameras to an existing Edwards EST-3 campus-wide fire alarm system, programmed and upgraded by Performance System Integration, an Edwards EST Life Safety and Communications Strategic Partner.

The complete system ties to a central network infrastructure, enabling administration, campus police and other offices to deliver voice notifications to any single location, multiple zones, or every PA point in an “all-call” scenario.

Cory Kovacevich, a service and project manager at Mills Electric Co., notes that the Technomad loudspeakers produce intelligible voice over long distances, ensuring that students, staff and visitors hear emergency notifications loud and clear.  Each gathering area includes two Technomad Berlin 90×40 loudspeakers, mounted between 20 and 90 feet from the ground depending on the location.  Weatherproof construction ensures long-term durability and protection from the outdoor elements in rainy northwest Washington.

Kovacevich adds that the PowerChiton modules deliver 500 watts of clean power to each Berlin loudspeaker in a simple, easy-to-install package.  Though IP66-rated and designed for permanent outdoor installation, Kovacevich installed the PowerChitons indoors at the central audio headend for easier accessibility.

One of three outdoor zones powered by Technomad Berlin narrow dispersion loudspeakers

“The PowerChitons come in small, non-metallic enclosures and take up minimal space, which is important because we have limited room to add equipment,” says Kovacevich.  “The PowerChitons tie directly to the fire alarm system, and are mounted next to the fire alarm panels.  This keeps everything but the loudspeakers and cameras in one building.”

Kovacevich notes that the overall system represents a major upgrade for the campus, enabling text-to-speech translation and remote access to make announcements over the system from off campus — in addition to video integration, multi-zone capability and superior audio quality.

“The Berlins put out some serious sound,” says Kovacevich.  “We had recently broadcast a test message from the rooftop and saw people more than 100 yards away stop, turn around and look directly toward the loudspeakers.   The university is very happy with the power, sound quality and clarity of the voice.”

TNDV Provides HD Mobile Production Services for PBS Program Bluegrass Underground

Four time Emmy-award winner Nic Dugger and his mobile production company TNDV will produce the second season of the PBS series Bluegrass Underground, bringing the luminaries of bluegrass music heard on the live radio program to televisions around the country.  The shoots take place in late February, with 2012 air dates to be announced.

Bluegrass Underground’s concerts are held in the Cumberland Caverns, a series of underground caves more than 300 feet below the earth’s surface in Tennessee.  After a successful first season, TNDV and the Bluegrass Underground have again joined forces to bring production and acoustical excellence to the show’s live performances from the Volcano Room.

The Volcano Room is a natural amphitheater, carved from the flow of two underground rivers to create one of the most acoustically pure and breathtaking natural spaces in the world.  To get to the concerts, tour guides lead patrons through the cave and down 333 feet.  The subterranean descent includes underground waterfalls, water pools, stalagmites and stalactites along the way to the amphitheater, where fans enjoy bluegrass music in a unique and beautiful venue.

Inside TNDV's Aspiration mobile production truck

Nashville-based TNDV, noted for building television and video productions in unique and remote locations, will provide the HD mobile production systems and technical crew needed to produce the events.  TNDV’s Aspiration, the company’s 40 foot expanding-side mobile production truck, will support the remote video and sound production services for broadcast radio and TV.

Aspiration will park near the cave and deploy and an advanced SD/HD/3D production workflow featuring seven cameras, a full audio suite, and extreme cable runs.  Every camera will use 1000 feet of fiber-optic cable to record and broadcast each concert.  Aspiration’s utilization of fiber-optic cables from camera to truck ensures no loss of signal, color, or sound to maintain quality throughout the process.  Amplifiers located near the stage feed directly to the truck over a digital audio line to generate a mixable, superior-quality audio signal for the TV program.

“Producing an international television series from 333 feet underground takes a lot of creativity and a team with a can-do mentality,” said Todd Mayo, producer, Bluegrass Underground. “TNDV and Nic Dugger bring creative solutions to logistical challenges and a positive attitude to bear in all they do.  When you combine a track record of excellence with a team of good people that add value to any project, you are way ahead of the curve in producing quality television.”

PBS will broadcast the second season of Bluegrass Underground featuring live performances from bluegrass music stars later in 2012. Bluegrass artists for the 2012 Season include Vince Gill, The Civil Wars, Jerry Douglas, Del McCoury Band and The Time Jumpers.

Pennsylvania Company Uses MobileCamViewer to Remotely Monitor Car and Pet Service Businesses

Leading video surveillance and remote monitoring company mobiDEOS Inc. announces that River Valley LLC in western Pennsylvania has upgraded its business security solution with MobileCamViewer.  The mobile surveillance solution helps the business owners respond intelligently to situations and quickly address issues that affect customer revenue.

River Valley LLC comprises four quick-service/self-service businesses:  Cranberry 10 Minute Oil Change, Cranberry Car Wash, Cranberry Pet Wash and Erie 10 Minute Oil Change.  Most are open 24 hours and often unmanned, particularly at night.  The company is among the growing number of commercial businesses using mobile surveillance to monitor activities while at home or on the road.

Business owners Joe Lehosky and Dan Klapec connect the MobileCamViewer application to a variety of security cameras at all four locations, along with Dedicated Micros BX2 DVRs.  Typically they use the application to monitor general business activity, communicate with customers and respond to issues, although mobile surveillance now comprises part of a larger security solution with various burglar and fire alarms.

“MobileCamViewer lets me pull up my cameras or servers and see what is going on at our locations,” Klapec said.  “I am looking at live video of the facility within seconds of getting paged or called.”

Lehosky and Klapec use an HTC Incredible solution for the smartphone and network connection, noting that setup was simple and complete in well under 30 minutes.   They report that mobile surveillance has made better use of their time by enabling thoughtful reaction to events instead of frantically rushing to the site whenever paged — whether security-related or otherwise.

“We have only had one real security-related alarm since installing MobileCamViewer,” said Lehosky.  “It turned out that the alarm was triggered by high winds, but it was nice to see the facility remotely before getting there.  I felt more comfortable while approaching the site.”

Regardless of the alert, mobile surveillance helps determine whether a site visit is necessary.  A problem handled remotely saves approximately one hour of time spent driving to the site to address the issue.

“We save two to three trips per week now due to cashier-related problems,” said Klapec.  “The car wash can still run with credit cards, and if a customer leaves the car or pet wash too dirty we can clean them up to avoid lost revenue.  But MobileCamViewer almost immediately confirms if there is an emergency or otherwise.  If it’s not an emergency we can just go about our business.”

MobileCamViewer offers secure, reliable carrier-grade cell phone-based video surveillance and remote monitoring solutions, providing “anytime, anywhere” mobile video surveillance for virtually every situation.  Its compatibility across many smartphones, tablets, cameras, DVRs, NVRs and video servers — as well as simple integration with PC and MAC-based iOS systems — enables MobileCamViewer to comply with both new and existing network infrastructures.

Harris NEXIO Studio Suite Improves Control in File-Based Workflows

Harris has introduced NEXIO^® Studio Suite to help customers easily and affordably transition to tapeless studio production and more efficient file-based workflows.

NEXIO Studio Suite is designed for live multi-camera studio productions such as news and magazine-format, entertainment and reality TV shows.  It enhances the control of video servers in production studios, offering familiar video tape recorder (VTR) functionality while adding the operational benefits of multichannel, nonlinear video servers.  The software simplifies the operation and control of many server ports over IP networks, including multichannel recording and playback within NEXIO servers.

“Broadcasters and production professionals are increasingly moving away from expensive, high-maintenance VTRs as they transition to tapeless studio production and file-based workflows,” said Harris Morris, president, Harris Broadcast Communications.  “Harris NEXIO Studio Suite gives our customers the best of both worlds for live studio production:  A familiar user interface and the path to a cost-efficient, streamlined, tapeless studio production experience.”

NEXIO Studio Suite customers also benefit from the true shared storage architecture of NEXIO servers, providing users of Harris^® Velocity ESX™ or Apple^® Final Cut Pro^® editors with instant access to content.  It is ideal for enabling specific tasks commonly associated with fast, live, multi-camera studio recording and playback.

NEXIO Studio Suite is based on ClipJOCKEY, a control software application developed by German software company S4M – Solutions For Media.  The two companies worked together to develop a unique and simple user interface that enables the control of all workflows tied to a NEXIO video server installation, while helping to speed the production process.