CNN and Tektronix sign digital video deal.................
George, what do you know and think about the Tektronix system?
CNN International Links With Tektronix for New $1 million+ (US)
Multi-channel MPEG2 Project
AMSTERDAM, Sept. 12 /PRNewswire/ -- Moving to a server-based solution to
facilitate market-by-market regionalization of its long-form programming and
commercial spot insertions, CNN International (CNNI) is to install a Tektronix
multi-channel Profile system at its Atlanta-based CNN Center. In a deal worth
over $1 million (US), the new installation will incorporate multiple Profile
PDR200 video file servers, Profile PRS200A RAID 3 Arrays and Profile PLS200
data tape library systems.
"In addition," explained Gordon Castle, CNN Networks' vice-president of
research and development, "by designing its new system around the Tektronix
Profile, CNNI will facilitate full utilization of MPEG2 4:2:2 Profile @ Main
Level compression when it is available," -- an area in which Tektronix has
taken the lead in setting standards worldwide.
Key initial objectives are to reduce tape-handling significantly, simplify
logistics and automate the greater part of the CNNI channel operation which
currently employs an LMS system and traditional tape editing to customize spot
playback and programming for international markets. The entire system will
operate under the control of ProBel automation and utilize existing Grass
Valley master control switchers.
According to Gordon Castle, "Tektronix was selected as CNNI's partner
because the Profile fit nicely in the desired production system and project
timeline. Additionally, the future change to MPEG will provide added capacity
and functionality. We expect our transition to MPEG2 to be straightforward
when we add the new codec cards and are planning accordingly in our design and
implementation phases. Specifically, the MPEG2 4:2:2 Profile will allow us to
vary the GOP and data rates for our various requirements -- a significant
advantage compared to other systems currently available."
For Tektronix, Inc., (NYSE: TEK) the deal coincides with its IBC
announcements that it has now shipped over 2000 Profile systems worldwide
serving applications from live and post production to on-air transmission.
With over 50 application developers writing software, Profile users have the
widest choice of software available of any video server on the market.
Tektronix is a portfolio of measurement, color printing and video and
networking businesses dedicated to applying technology excellence to customer
challenges. Tektronix is headquartered in Wilsonville, Oregon and has
operations in 23 countries outside the United States. Founded in 1946, the
company had revenues of $1.94 billion in fiscal 1997.
NOTE: Tektronix is a registered trademark of Tektronix, Inc. All other
brand or product names are trademarks or registered trademarks of their
respective holders and are used here for identification purposes only.
SOURCE Tektronix Inc.
CONTACT: Jayne Scheckla of Tektronix, Inc., 503-627-2779, or
jayne.d.scheckla@tek.com; or Wendy Moro of Focal Point Communications,
415-340-0242, or wendym@sfo.com, for Tektronix |
