Omneon and Pro-Bel Support U.S. Defense Information School Studios
SUNNYVALE, Calif.—Jan. 2, 2007—Omneon Video Networks and Pro-Bel Systems today announced that the Defense Information School (DINFOS), responsible for training U.S. armed services personnel in broadcasting technologies for reporting, entertainment, training, and video analysis, is installing a 12-channel redundant Omneon Spectrum™ media server along with Pro-Bel routers and router control as part of the digital upgrade of its studios in Fort Meade, Md.
DINFOS looked at several competing products and found that Omneon offered the best solution for its needs and budgetary constraints. The Spectrum server system also works well with Pro-Bel automation, which offers greater flexibility in DINFOS’ workflow. As the facilities grow over the next year or two, they plan to integrate the new server, routing, and automation systems further to achieve even greater functionality.
The Omneon server system is replacing VTR systems used in the DINFOS production studios, which include five TV studios and 14 radio studios. DINFOS has one of the largest Avid installations in the world, with 135 Avid edit seats linked on one network, and the Omneon system will interface with these editors via a 10 gigabit Ethernet backbone. Instructors overseeing the studios will have the ability to re-wrap the edited product and move it onto the Omneon server system for studio use storage.
DINFOS classrooms originally were configured with no real interconnection, and the new routing systems will facilitate sharing of material among classes and courses and greatly enhance the facility’s training capabilities. Pro-Bel supplied two 256 x 256 Sirius routers, including a video router configured for 112 x 112 SD and 16 x 16 NTSC and an audio router configured for 128 x 128 AES, as well as Aurora router control and PC-based router access. The Omneon Spectrum server system was commissioned in October, and it will be wired out with the Pro-Bel routers and fully integrated into each new training studio as it comes online.
“We are pleased to have been selected by DINFOS for this key project. It is vital that today’s broadcast equipment vendors actively work together to provide the level of integration that customers need,” said Neil Maycock, president, Pro-Bel Americas. “Pro-Bel and Omneon are, of course, no exception to this and work alongside one another on a regular basis to provide advanced media solutions.”
“The Spectrum server system and Pro-Bel routing solutions together provide a solid foundation for the broad range of training activities undertaken at DINFOS,” said Geoff Stedman, vice president of worldwide marketing for Omneon. “The upgrade to digital broadcast studios at DINFOS allows for more flexible storage and production capability, and as the facility continues to expand its operations, their Omneon and Pro-Bel systems will enable a straightforward transition into HD production.”
Use of these products does not imply an endorsement by the U.S. Government.
About Pro-Bel
The Pro-Bel name is synonymous with innovative automation, media management, and master control solutions, as well as outstanding routing, control, and modular infrastructure systems—all designed to be flexible and scalable, protecting the investment of the customer. With nearly 30 years of service to the international broadcast, post-production, cable, and satellite communities, Pro-Bel has a unique understanding of broadcast workflow, and is an established leader in the provision of cost-effective solutions that compromise neither performance nor quality. Further information can be obtained from http://www.pro-bel.com.
About Omneon Video Networks
Omneon is a leading provider of flexible media server and active storage systems that optimize workflow productivity and on-air reliability for the production, distribution, and management of digital media. Omneon is a pioneer in the use of advanced IT technologies and open systems for broadcast applications, producing the first totally modular and expandable video server architecture in the Omneon Spectrum. The company’s latest product is the MediaGrid active storage system, delivering centralized content storage that is scalable in capacity, bandwidth, and media-processing power. The company has an extensive global presence with customers in 55 countries on six continents. Omneon is online at http://www.omneon.com.
All trademarks mentioned herein are the property of the respective owners.
Contact Information:
Company contact:
Katharine Guy
Pro-Bel Ltd
Tel: +44 1189 214 294
katharine.guy@pro-bel.com
Press contact:
Jennie Evans
Manor Marketing
Tel: +44 1635 44991
jennie@manormarketing.tv
Images available at:
www.pro-bel.com/news_and_events/c/Press Information/