NEW FOR-A IVS-200 VIDEO STABILIZER AND AUTOMATIC VIDEO OPTIMIZER IMPROVES LIVE, RECORDED FOOTAGE

Fort Lee, N.J., March 31, 2010 – FOR-A, a leading manufacturer of video and audio systems for the broadcast and professional video industries, will introduce the IVS-200 Video Stabilizer and Automatic Video Optimizer at the 2010 NAB Show in Las Vegas, Nev., April 12-15 (Booth C5219). The new stabilizer is the latest member of FOR-A’s family of video stabilizers for image stabilization, and is ideal for improving unsteady video for security and surveillance applications.

The new stabilizer is the latest member of FOR-A’s family of video stabilizers for image stabilization

The IVS-200 corrects any video source, from live feeds to VCR tapes and DVDs, stabilizing shaky video in real time during capture or video that has already been recorded. While other video stabilizers correct vertical and horizontal shaking, the IVS-200 also corrects rotation and diagonal shaking. In addition, the Auto Video Optimizer (AVO) component makes automatic corrections of video to appropriate levels.

“In today’s security applications, the right technology can make all the difference in protecting life and property,” said Mr. Hiro Tanoue, President, FOR-A Corporation of America. “By correcting camera shake in two dimensions, our new IVS-200 is an ideal tool to help law enforcement analyze recorded video for potential evidence or correct poorly shot live video.”

Suited for a variety of applications, the IVS-200 is compact and features simple “plug-and-play” operation. Other functions include analog composite I/0, correction area masking function, and time and title display.

The IVS-200 will be available May 2010.

About FOR-A

FOR-A is a major manufacturer and distributor of video and audio systems to the broadcast, postproduction and professional video markets. For more information about FOR-A’s product line, call 201-944-1120 or visit www.for-a.com.

INDUSTRY VETERAN GORDON TUBBS JOINS FUJINON AS DIRECTOR OF SALES

Tubbs Will Focus on Key Account Sales in North and Latin America

WAYNE, New Jersey, March 30, 2010 – Fujinon, Inc. has announced the appointment of Gordon Tubbs as Director of Sales for the Broadcast Division. In his new role, Tubbs is responsible for all aspects of sales, with an emphasis on Network and Group sales. He will work closely with National Sales Manager Thom Calabro and Special Assistant to the President, John Newton. Fran Fehr, Manager of Key Accounts, will report directly to Tubbs.

Tubbs brings a wealth of experience and knowledge to Fujinon, having worked in the broadcast industry in several capacities for the past 30 years.

“I’m looking forward to using my many years of experience to advance Fujinon and propel the company to new levels of growth,” said Tubbs. “This position gives me a great platform to use my skills and knowledge. My plan is to strengthen our relationships with current customers and demonstrate our product line and company advantages to potential customers.”

Hank Hayashi, President and CEO, Fujinon, Inc. said of the appointment: “Having someone of Gordon’s caliber is a big boost to Fujinon. He brings a fresh approach and new ideas for ways in which we can build our business. We’re very excited to have him as part of our team.”

Tubbs can be reached at: 973-686-2769 or via email at: Gordon.tubbs@fujinon.com.

About Fujinon

Fujinon is a major manufacturer and distributor of optics and lens assemblies for the broadcast, digital cinema, and industrial markets. The company’s line of television zoom lenses are used in virtually every segment of the broadcast industry, including electronic newsgathering, studio and field production, and high definition television. For more information about Fujinon broadcast and communications products, call 973-633-5600 or visit our web site at www.fujinon.com.

FUJINON To INTRODUCE NEW 3D LENSES WITH SYNCHRONOUS CONTROL SYSTEM AT NAB 2010

WAYNE, N.J., March 30, 2010 – Fujinon, Inc., a major manufacturer and distributor of optics and lens assemblies for the digital cinema, broadcast, and industrial markets, will introduce six new lenses in conjunction with its 3D Synchronous Control System for 3D production at the 2010 NAB Show in Las Vegas, Nev., April 12-15 (Booth C7425). The new lenses feature very high optical and mechanical specifications, along with precise zoom and focus servos.

“3D is the hot topic at NAB this year, and it’s being pursued by more and more filmmakers,” said Hank Hayashi, President and CEO, Fujinon, Inc. “With our new Synchronous Control System and 3D lenses for HD and SD projects, Fujinon can provide optimal image quality for this newly invigorated shooting style.”

Fujinon, Inc. will introduce six new lenses in conjunction with its 3D Synchronous Control System for 3D production at the 2010 NAB Show in Las Vegas

Lenses that are to be used in tandem for 3D productions must share the same focal length – and during shooting, they must also match zoom and focus position. The Fujinon 3D Synchronous Control System includes the ERD-10A-D01 Zoom controller and HJ-303A-06A Synchronizer/Focus controller, plus two SA-206H cables that provide the interface between the 3D controllers and lenses. The system synchronizes the left and right lenses so zoom and focus accurately move in unison.

Four new B4 mount lenses are designed for 3D HD productions. The HA23X7.6BEZD-T5DD offers a 23X zoom with a focal length of 7.6-175mm (15.2-350mm with 2X extender). The HA16X6.3BEZD-T5DD offers a 16X zoom with a focal length of 6.3-101mm (12.6-202mm with 2X extender). The HA18x7.6BEZD-T5DD offers a 18X zoom with a focal length of 7.6-137mm (15.2-274mm with 2X extender). A fourth HD lens, the HAs18X7.6 3BZD-T5DD, is an 18X zoom with a focal length of 7.6-137mm with no 2X extender. All four lenses include Fujinon’s Inner Focus, Zoom Limit, and Quick Zoom features, with an optional 16-bit encoder.

Fujinon is also offering two extended definition 3D lenses . The A4X7.5BMD-DNL features a 4X zoom with a focal length of 7.5-30mm, while the A8X12BMD-DNL features a 8X zoom with a focal length of 12-96mm. Both broadcast quality lenses include a B4 mount.

For optimal usability, these lenses may be used with Fujinon’s 3D Synchronous Control System or third-party controllers for simultaneous zoom and focus control. All 3D products are available for delivery.

About Fujinon

Fujinon is a major manufacturer and distributor of optics and lens assemblies for the broadcast, digital cinema, and industrial markets. The company’s line of television zoom lenses are used in virtually every segment of the broadcast industry, including electronic newsgathering, studio and field production, and high definition television. For more information about Fujinon broadcast and communications products, call 973-633-5600 or visit our web site at www.fujinon.com.

Technomad Schedulon Automates Music and Announcements for Simi Valley Hospital

BOSTON, March 29, 2010 – Technomad Associates, LLC, a leader in advanced loudspeakers and audio systems since 1995, announces that Simi Valley Hospital, one of 17 hospitals operated by Adventist Health in the western United States, is using two Technomad Schedulon automatic MP3 players for scheduled and on-demand playback of audio files in multiple locations of the hospital.

Located in Simi Valley, California, Simi Valley Hospital is a 201-bed acute care facility featuring the Nancy Reagan Breast Center, emergency services, state-of-the-art diagnostic imaging, pediatric rehabilitation, ICU/Telemetry, a Level II NICU and impatient and outpatient surgery among other medical services.  The Schedulon provides dual-functionality for the hospital, essentially acting as two devices in a single 1RU system:  a sophisticated, networked, scheduled-audio player that plays sounds on a user-defined schedule; and a simple, on-demand audio file player that acts as a rugged, rackmount iPod with sounds ‘hard-assigned’ to knob positions for quick-predictable access.

Simi Valley Hospital is using two Technomad Schedulon automatic MP3 players for scheduled and on-demand playback of audio files in multiple locations of the hospital

At Simi Valley Hospital, both units are used to deliver music and announcements to various locations at specific times, including the main entrance.  The systems provide an easy-to-manage user interface for uploading and scheduling files, eliminating the need for Simi Valley telecom and IT staff to fumble with CDs and traditional playback systems.

“The Schedulon provides a digital device that is simple to operate without mechanical parts, making it reliable and leaving little possibility for system failures,” said Greg Eslinger, Telecom Department Manager for Simi Valley Hospital and Adventist Health.  “The ease of building a schedule and playing files on-demand are standout features, and its automated features reliably play audio as scheduled.”

Eslinger uses one Schedulon to play soft music at the main entrance from 7 a.m. until 8 p.m.  The Schedulon plays a seven-minute loop of instrumental music to instill a soothing effect and de-stress visitors and patients as they enter the hospital.

The second system delivers music and announcements including information on visiting hours and daily prayers from the hospital chaplain to the Main Campus, North and South Patient Care Towers, North Campus plus other buildings.  Simi Valley Hospital licenses music such as “Turn, Turn, Turn” by The Byrds which plays every two hours at normal volume from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. and softly from 10 p.m. to 6 a.m. to signal nurses and patient care staff to reposition bed-confined patients to help reduce pressure ulcers.

In addition to ripping files from CDs, Eslinger has added a professional microphone and recording system that is currently used to record the chaplain’s prayers directly into the Schedulon.  He expects to also use this in the future to record security and emergency-related announcements in addition to other messages.

The systems provide an easy-to-manage user interface for uploading and scheduling files, eliminating the need for Simi Valley telecom and IT staff to fumble with CDs and traditional playback systems

“The Schedulon has a front push-and-turn knob that we currently use mostly for testing purposes but I expect will be used for on-demand playback of messages in the future,” said Eslinger.  “We have four-shifts of telecom operators, and the goal is that they could trigger specific messages based on Codes they receive.  We will also take better advantage of password protection and other user safeguards when we begin using the on-demand functions more regularly.”

Eslinger currently has the Schedulons installed in secured network areas where the IT staff can gain immediate access.  The compact size also allows for simple front desk installation, where support staff can access the Schedulon’s on-demand features in response to emergencies and special events, while the unit continues to play sounds on a schedule with no user interaction.

Based on Technomad’s unique military technology, the Schedulon provides instant playback of up to 99 knob-assigned, user-loaded audio files from a front-panel screen, and allows automatic playback on a user-defined schedule based on an internal clock or synchronized network time server.  Operators can interrupt automatic messages and play a knob-assigned siren or emergency announcement from an internal sound library in critical situations.  Operators can also use the Schedulon to record field audio for instant or future playback via the user-defined schedule. 

Please contact Technomad at 617-275-8898 or visit www.technomad.com for more information.

FUJINON TO INTRO WIDE RANGE OF HD LENSES, FROM HIGH-END TO COST-EFFECTIVE, AT NAB 2010

WAYNE, N.J., March 25, 2010 – Fujinon, Inc., a major manufacturer and distributor of optics and lens assemblies for the digital cinema, broadcast, and industrial markets, is set to introduce five HD lenses at the 2010 NAB Show in Las Vegas, Nev., April 12-15 (Booth C7425).  Among them are the HA14x4.5BE RM/RD, XA16sx8BRAM, XT17sx4.5BRM, XA20sx8.5BRM and XT20sx4.7BRM.

The HA14x4.5BE RM/RD is new high-end, ENG-Style wide angle HD production lens designed for 2/3-inch cameras. It features an exclusive 2.2x extender that extends the focal length from 9.9 to 138mm.  Without the extender, the lens has a focal length of 4.5 up to a maximum of 63mm. The lens has a 14x zoom range and full remote control via an RS-232 serial data port (RD version), and a maximum relative aperture at 1:1.8 from 4.5mm to 41mm and 1:2.8 at 63mm.

Enhancements to the HA14x4.5BE RM/RD include minimized geometric distortion and improved corner resolution and contrast. It is well suited for the production of commercials, music videos, sporting events, digital cinema applications and other productions requiring the highest image quality.

It also features Fujinon’s Inner Focus to minimize lens breathing, Quick Zoom for rapid zoom movement and Zoom Limit for automated zooming parameters. QuickFrame is available as an option. The HA14X4.5 is available at the end of May.

The new XA16sx8BRAM is designed for 2/3-inch cameras and features a 16x zoom range and a focal range of 8 to 128mm. It’s well suited for use by news producers, corporate video, independent video, house of worship, and wedding videographers. The XA16sx has a new ergonomic digital servo and comes standard with Quick Zoom Cruise Zoom to set a constant zoom speed.  The XA16sx has a newly designed rear-focusing system. New glass properties minimize color fringing, and a new EBC optical coating improves transmission. Availability of the XA16sx is the end of May.

The new XT17sx4.5BRM is 1/3-inch ENG-Style lens that also features the newly designed ergonomic digital servo with Quick Zoom Cruise Zoom and one second zoom speed. New glass properties minimize color fringing, and a new EBC optical coating improves transmission within this lens as well. The XT17sx is best suited for use by wedding, house of worship and corporate video productions. The XT17sx4.5 is available at the end of April.

The XA20sx8.5BRM is cost-efficient, ENG telephoto lens designed for 2/3-inch cameras that features 20x zoom range; high-optical quality; fast, quiet and precise servo zoom and focus. Its ergonomic digital servo comes with Quick Zoom Cruise Zoom and one second zoom speed. New glass properties also minimize color fringing, and a new EBC optical coating improves transmission for the XA20sx. The XA20sx8.5BRM is best suited for use by wedding, house of worship and corporate video productions. Availability of the XA20sx8.5 is the end of July.

It features focal length of 8.5mm up to a maximum of 170mm. It has a maximum relative aperture at 1:1.8 from 8.5mm to 113mm and 1:2.7 at 170mm. It also comes standard with Fujinon’s Inner Focus technology.

The XT20sx4.7BRM is also a cost-efficient ENG-Style zoom lens designed for 1/3-inch cameras, featuring a 20x zoom range; high-optical quality; fast, quiet and precise servo zoom and focus. It is designed for use by wedding, house of worship and corporate video productions. This lens features a focal length of 4.7mm up to a maximum of 94mm. It has a maximum relative aperture at 1:1.4 from 4.7mm to 87.7mm and 1:1.5 at 94mm. It also comes standard with Fujinon’s Inner Focus technology.  The XT20sx4.7 is available at the end of July.

About Fujinon

Fujinon is a major manufacturer and distributor of optics and lens assemblies for the broadcast, digital cinema, and industrial markets. The company’s line of television zoom lenses are used in virtually every segment of the broadcast industry, including electronic newsgathering, studio and field production, and high definition television. For more information about Fujinon broadcast and communications products, call 973-633-5600 or visit our web site at www.fujinon.com.

Photo link:

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Vizrt Escenic Supports Publishing to Amazon Kindle E-Readers

Bergen, Norway, March 25, 2010 Vizrt Ltd. (Oslo Main List: VIZ)

With over a million units sold and over 420,000 titles for free download, Amazon Kindle is rapidly catching on with consumers because it gives them immediate, convenient access to a world of content anywhere they want to receive it.  Kindle puts the contents of a massive bookstore and newstand into your hands.  This wireless “e-reader” has become a familiar sight in cafes, on trains, on the beach, everywhere people go. 

Consistent with Vizrt’s commitment to stay ahead of the curve,  the company’s Escenic Content Management System  (CMS) now supports publishing and distribution to Kindle devices.  Vizrt will demonstrate Kindle publishing from Escenic in booth SL5408 at the 2010 National Association of Broadcasters show from April 10-15, 2010 in Las Vegas, NV. 

The new capability is supported in the upcoming Escenic Content Engine version 5.2 to be launched at the end of the second quarter 2010.  Existing customers can upgrade to this latest release. 

“E-readers are an emerging distribution channel that appeals to publishing companies, newspapers, magazines, and other content creators because it is faster and less expensive than paper distribution, as well as more environmentally friendly,” explained Tom Handegård, Chief Technical Officer, Escenic. 

“Since Escenic is a content management tool designed to allow media companies to easily publish and repurpose their content for multiple channels, it made sense for us to add Kindle support,” Handegård added.  “As a company, we’re dedicated to supplying our customers with technology that allows them to easily experiment with, and take advantage of, any promising new business opportunities and business models that may arise.”

Vizrt intends to add support for the Apple iPad as soon as it becomes available, as well as other viable, new E-Reader platforms.  

About Vizrt:

Vizrt creates leading-edge content production tools for the digital media industry – from award-winning 3D graphics & maps through integrated video workflow solutions and online publishing tools.

We propose a new vision for content creation, management and delivery with an end-to-end solution from conception to multi-format distribution. Through constant innovation and a good measure of fun, we create software and services that push creative boundaries and develop new ways of telling stories.

Vizrt’s product suite is used by the world’s leading broadcasters and publishing houses, including: CNN, CBS, Fox, BBC, Sky, ITN, ZDF, Star TV, Network 18, TV Today, CCTV, NHK, The Globe and Mail, The Telegraph, and Welt Online. Furthermore, many world-class production houses and corporate institutions, including both the New York and London Stock Exchanges, utilize Vizrt solutions.

Vizrt is a public company traded on the Oslo Main List: VIZ, ISIN: IL0010838154.

Koerner Camera Keeps Portland/Seattle on the Cinematic Cutting Edge With New Fujinon PL Series Zoom Lenses

WAYNE, N.J., March 23, 2010 – Koerner Camera Systems, the foremost film and digital rental house in the Pacific Northwest, recently purchased the Fujinon PL Series 18-85mm/T2.0 zoom lens. With locations in Portland, Ore. and Seattle, Wash., Koerner offers Fujinon lenses exclusively for 2/3 inch HD. The purchase of the PL Series 18-85mm/T2.0 signifies an investment in the next generation of digital lenses that will work with new digital cameras as well as film cameras.

“Fujinon has taken the latest technology and put it to use for the new digital cameras that are coming out now,” said Michael Koerner, owner of Koerner Camera Systems. “It’s going to be in high demand. I’m confident it will be used across the country on features, episodic television, and commercials for many years to come.”

Koerner Camera Systems recently purchased the Fujinon PL Series 18-85mm/T2.0 zoom lens

The PL Series 18-85mm/T2.0 is a true T2, Koerner added. “A lot of lenses claim to be a certain T stop or F stop, but are not,” he explained. “Also, there is minimal chromatic aberration. The lens doesn’t flare at all, like traditional lenses, and there is no breathing.”

As early adopters of cutting-edge lens design, Koerner is banking on the robust Fujinon lens and its user-friendly nature. The PL Series 18-85mm/T2.0 fits on any PL mount camera, such as the RED ONE and Sony F35 CineAlta. Plus, the lens fits on all of Koerner’s 35mm and Super 16mm film cameras. “From that standpoint it has a lot of potential avenues for years,” Koerner noted.

Designed for the latest digital cinematography cameras, the 18-85mm/T2.0 and 75-400mm/T2.8-T3.8 are the first models from Fujinon’s new PL Series of zoom lenses. Two additional models, offering focal ranges of 14.5-45mm/T2.0 and 24-180mm/T2.6, will be available in the next few months. The PL Series features the fastest T speeds available in a family of zooms, with unprecedented color-matched 4K optical performance. All four zooms are similar in size and weight, and the consistent gear placement and front barrel diameters (136mm) enable quick and efficient lens changes.

About Fujinon

Fujinon is a major manufacturer and distributor of optics and lens assemblies for the broadcast, digital cinema, and industrial markets. The company’s line of television zoom lenses are used in virtually every segment of the broadcast industry, including electronic newsgathering, studio and field production, and high definition television. For more information about Fujinon broadcast and communications products, call 973-633-5600 or visit our web site at www.fujinon.com/DigitalCinema.

ADVANCED BROADCAST SOLUTIONS ANNOUNCES STRATEGIC ALLIANCE WITH ADVANCED SYSTEMS GROUP

Companies Improve Operating Efficiencies for File-Based Production Facilities

SEATAC, WA, March 22, 2010 – Premier systems integration firm Advanced Broadcast Solutions (ABS) and Advanced Systems Group (ASG), an integrator based in Emeryville, Calif., today announced a strategic alliance between the two companies. ABS and ASG are now working together as a single resource to provide file-based solutions for broadcast, post production, high-end corporate video, and house of worship clients.

Today’s video systems are difficult to deploy and maintain. The blending of traditional hardware with file-based acquisition, storage, and distribution and repurposing is extremely complex. According to ABS and ASG, video production facilities need more than design and integration services – they need a liaison to work with equipment manufacturers, as well as an experienced team to support and maintain the technical infrastructure after the installation is complete.

“Broadcasters and other video professionals are shifting to a file-based workflow for recording, storing, and delivering content,” explained Mark Siegel, President of ABS. “Newsrooms in particular are looking for ways to reduce overhead and improve operating efficiencies. This alliance provides the opportunity to combine the hardware integration expertise of ABS with ASG’s data-centric video solutions.”

“ASG is known for our file-based video and film workflow expertise, SAN and NLE integration with software-based tools from Apple, Autodesk and others, and our digital asset management and archiving solutions,” said Dave Van Hoy, President of ASG. “ABS is a leader in the world of traditional video, known for integrating various components into a complete system. Together, our companies will be able to provide end-to-end solutions and service that is unmatched in the industry. Our companies share a common philosophy of putting our customers first by providing the best solutions for their budgets.”

 

A data-centric workflow also requires ongoing support. “With today’s complex infrastructures, it’s not enough for an integrator to just design and install a solution,” Siegel added. “Our combined knowledge and experience can help our clients avoid the pitfalls of software upgrades, new file formats, compatibility issues, and other potential problems. The ABS and ASG alliance delivers top industry experts for ongoing service and support for both hardware and software tools.”

About Advanced Broadcast Solutions:

Based in SeaTac, WA, Advanced Broadcast Solutions (ABS) specializes in personalized broadcast services such as consulting, project budgeting, workflow analysis, feasibility studies, project management, system and architectural design and engineering, equipment specifying, procurement and installation, maintenance support and training. ABS boasts a technical staff with over a century of practical experience in television operations, automation, traffic implementation, multiple program stream management and signal distribution by fiber, microwave and satellite. ABS clients include: Fisher Communications, Cowles California Media, Real Networks, Cisco Systems, and Microsoft Studios.

For more information about ABS, call 206-870-0244 or visit our Web site at www.advancedbroadcastsolutions.com.

About Advanced Systems Group:

Advanced Systems Group, LLC of Emeryville, Calif., with offices in Southern California, has

has provided engineering, systems, integration, support and training to the broadcast, creative and corporate video markets since 1997. With unmatched experience in Apple-based newsroom systems, shared storage, archiving, editing, finishing and VFX systems, ASG has become one of largest installers of shared storage systems on the West Coast. ASG’s team is highly focused on customer success, and has installed and supported more than 175 SANs, production and post production systems over the last five years for customers including KCBS-TV, KTVU, Cox Media, Google, Fireman’s Fund, The Orphanage and The Rock Church.

For more information about Advanced Systems Group, call 510-654-8300 or visit www.asgllc.com.

NAB ’10: FOR-A to Intro CG, Signal Processor and Logo/Title Generator

FOR-A to Introduce VTW-330HS HD/SD Character Generator and the LTG-50HS HD/SD LOGO/Title Generator at NAB 2010

Fort Lee, N.J., March 22, 2010 – FOR-A, a leading manufacturer of video and audio systems for the broadcast and professional video industries, will introduce the VTW-330HS HD/SD Character Generator and LTG-50HS HD/SD Logo/Title Generator at the 2010 NAB Show in Las Vegas, Nev., April 12-15 (Booth C5219).

 

With its lightweight, compact design, the VTW-330HS is a portable, affordable Character Generator that is the perfect addition for users of FOR-A’s HVS-300HS switcher or any of FOR-A’s Hanabi line of switchers. The LTG-50HS is a high-performance character generator that can superimpose camera titles, date and time, logos, and graphics on HD/SD-SDI video signals. 

 

“Built to perform and packed with features in a vibration-resistant 1 RU case, the VTW-330HS is an ideal CG for portable production systems and a great addition for those mobile event production application systems,” said Hiro Tanoue, president, FOR-A Corporation of America. “Our GenCG software makes it easy to produce multi-layer graphics using original artwork or templates.”

 

VTW-330HS – HD/SD cHaracter generator 

The VTW-33HS is equipped with video and key inputs, it can capture still images from HD/SD-SDI video

The VTW-330HS offers a rich array of features such as drawing functions and templates. More than 260 transition functions come standard, including roll, crawl, fade in/out, slide, and wipe. Equipped with video and key inputs, it can capture still images from HD/SD-SDI video. Its program and preview outputs allow independent video/key output of each.

 

The GenCG software included with the VTW-330HS provides an intuitive easy to use user interface. Images can be imported from Adobe Photoshop and other programs to create multi-layer graphics, plus still images can be captured from live HD/SD video for graphics as well. An auto-preview function allows the operator to instantly check the image over live video, while a thumbnail or list display allows confirmation of on-air and upcoming graphics.

 

LTG-50HS- HD/SD LOGO/Title Generator

Equipped with HD/SD-SDI input/output, the LTG-50HS offers two types of display fonts, Gothic and Roman, in five different sizes. Up to 40 characters per row can be displayed in up to 10 rows per page, with a maximum of 256 pages. Text color can be changed in each line, and logos and graphics can be displayed at any selected position.

 

Equipped with HD/SD-SDI input/output, the LTG-50HS offers two types of display fonts, Gothic and Roman, in five different sizes

Other features include a text crawl display (up to two lines) and a built-in date and time display function (with an external correction input). The LTG-50HS includes a LAN interface as well as RS-232C connectivity to allow easy display setting and character registration from a PC.

The VTW-330HS will be available late March 2010. The LTG-50HS will be available late April 2010.

FOR-A to Unveil FA-9500 Multi-Purpose Signal Processor  with Frame Sync, Up/Down/Cross/Aspect Conversion

Options Include 3G Support, Frame Rate Conversion, Color Correction

Fort Lee, N.J., March 22, 2010 – FOR-A, a leading manufacturer of video and audio systems for the broadcast and professional video industries, will introduce the FA-9500 Multi Purpose Signal Processor at the 2010 NAB Show in Las Vegas, Nev., April 12-15 (Booth C5219). A replacement for the FA-9100, the new unit offers frame sync and video and audio conversion tools, as well as a variety of options for improved functionality.

“Our FA-9100 set the benchmark for frame synchronizers,” said Hiro Tanoue, president, FOR-A Corporation of America. “The new FA-9500 sets the bar even higher, with optional 3G support and frame rate conversion. Our modular approach means you can customize your FA-9500 to provide the right options for your operation.”

FOR-A will introduce the FA-9500 Multi Purpose Signal Processor at the 2010 NAB Show in Las Vegas

Two channels of HD/SD-SDI and one channel of analog composite video I/O come standard, and it is expandable up to five channels. With SDI inputs, two channels are synchronously coupled independently for seamless switching between channels. The SDI input also features error detection – if the signal is cut or an error is detected, the FA-9500 handles it as a clean switch and changes to the other channel.

The FA-9500 has two signal processing paths, which means dual outputs can be made simultaneously, such as original SD signal and up-converted HD signal. The FA-9500 also has two distributed outputs and includes an I/O bypass in case of power failure or emergency.

The FA-9500 offers three frame synchronizer modes: frame, line, and input. Ancillary data can be passed through with both H and V in every mode. In line sync mode, it can operate as AVDL.

Audio I/O includes 16 asynchronous channels of embedded audio, eight channels of AES/EBU, and four channels of analog. It is possible to select 16 channels of audio inputs among the above 28 channels of inputs using one’s own sampling rate converter and signal processing without any phase gap between channels. This enables delay or level adjustment, down-mixing, and remapping. Users can also embed and de-embed multi-channel audio.

More than a frame synchronizer, the FA-9500 also provides A/D and D/A conversion, as well as up/down/cross/aspect conversion. It offers conversion between HD and SD, as well as 1080i and 720p. Additional standard features on the FA-9500 include video delay, 2D/3D comb filter, and Web browser-based monitoring and control interfaces.

Options for the FA-9500 include support for 3 Gbps signals. Besides a 3G-SDI signal I/O, a second re-sizer can also be added for down/cross/aspect conversion, which provides the flexibility needed for simultaneous HD/SD output. In addition, a frame rate converter can be added, which incorporates the technology found in FOR-A’s well established FRC Series of products.

Ideal for over or underexposed video, the optional video optimizer monitors video in real time and automatically corrects it to normal levels. Optional color correction features three different modes (balance, differential, and sepia) and can also reproduce the video’s original color spaces using gamma adjustment, white and black level adjustments, and various clip functions. The optional logo generator can be used to superimpose logos on video for branding purposes or to add side panels to 4:3 video. Additional options include a Dolby E encoder/decoder, support for 16 channels of embedded audio, analog component I/O, redundant power, and SNMP monitoring/control.

The FA-9500 will be available in July 2010.

About FOR-A

FOR-A is a major manufacturer and distributor of video and audio systems to the broadcast, postproduction and professional video markets. For more information about FOR-A’s product line, call 201-944-1120 visit our web site at www.for-a.com.

Sky Chooses Vizrt for Stereo 3D Channel

March 22, 2010 — Sky Sports today announced that it has chosen Vizrt as the core graphics platform for its 3DTV channel, due to launch in April.

Darren Long, Sky Sports’ Director of Operations described his reasons for the decision, “We have worked with Vizrt for more than ten years.

They have supported us with excellent graphics for our SD sports coverage, then later for HD and now they will do so again for 3D. Vizrt has always been a real-time 3D system and this meant it was easy for our designers to convert Sky Sports’ current HD designs to their stereo 3D equivalents. The results are stunning and the graphics drew special attention from viewers when we recently ran our world’s first stereo 3D football match trial. I am sure that Vizrt’s graphics will enhance our new 3D channel, just as they do for all our other channels.”

The stereoscopic Vizrt system uses a Viz Trio CG operator interface, controlling a Viz render engine PC. This powerful graphics engine uses two graphics cards and the separately rendered HD channels for each eye are synchronised by a new application developed for the process. The stereoscopic convergence point and depth are also adjustable on the fly to allow for changing camera views. The system can also be driven by GPI triggers from the vision-mixing desk.

Vizrt UK’s Managing Director, Rex Jenkins added, “Sky Sports demands the highest quality from its graphics systems and we are glad to meet their needs. This prestigious project attracted a lot of competition from all over the world so it is especially satisfying to find that Vizrt came out on top. We had a special advantage because Vizrt has always delivered graphics as true 3D animations, so adding stereoscopy to the rendering process was less of a challenge for us than it must have been for other systems. In that sense, Sky Sports backed the right horse ten years ago when it chose to use Vizrt for the first time.”

About Sky:

Sky is the UK’s leading entertainment and communications company, operating the most comprehensive multi-channel television service. Over

9.4 million homes – a third of households across the UK and Ireland – enjoy the very best entertainment, movies, news and sports channels. In delivering entertainment through the TV, PC and mobile, customers have more control and flexibility over what, how and when they watch. Almost

5.5 million customers now choose Sky+, Sky’s digital video recorder, to record and store their favourite programmes and 1.3 million enjoy the unprecedented picture and sound quality of Sky+HD, which offers 33 dedicated HD channels. Sky is also the UK’s fastest growing broadband and fixed-telephony provider with over 2.2 million customers taking Sky Broadband and over 1.8 million customers taking Sky Talk.

About Sky 3D TV:

There will be no need for customers to upgrade their set-top boxes to access to the new 3D channel, as all existing Sky+HD boxes are already ‘3D Ready’. However, customers will need a new 3D Ready TV, which are expected to be on sale in the UK during 2010. More details on the channel, including timing, pricing and packaging will be provided in due course.

About Vizrt:

Vizrt provides real-time 3D graphics and asset management tools for the broadcast industry – from award-winning animations & maps to online publishing tools.

Vizrt’s products are used by the world’s leading broadcasters and publishing houses, including: CNN, CBS, Fox, the BBC, BSkyB, ITN, ZDF, Star TV, Network 18, TV Today, CCTV, NHK, The Globe and Mail, Times Online, The Telegraph, and Welt Online. Furthermore, many world-class production houses and corporate institutions such as the Stock Exchanges in New York and London use Vizrt systems.

Vizrt is a public company traded on the Oslo Main List: VIZ, ISIN:

IL0010838154.