Vela Research (CUBE customer) introduces new MPEG2 encoder system. It looks like it's based on CUBE's new DVx encoder, because of the incorporation of encoder features such as inverse telecine, which converts film frame rate to DVD frame rate................
Vela Research Delivers New Version of Argus MPEG-2 Encoding System
ST. PETERSBURG, Fla.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Nov. 3, 1997--
Argus 3.0 Provides Broadcast-Quality Encoding with Advanced Features for Windows NT
Vela Research Inc., a leading provider of video compression products for the cable and broadcast industries, announced today it has begun shipping Argus 3.0, its Windows NT-based MPEG-2 encoder system designed for a broad range of professional applications needing broadcast-quality digital video. Argus has an extensive range of encoding capabilities for multimedia applications and corporate information networks, as well as high-quality broadcast applications like digital ad insertion and video-on-demand. "Vela Research is dedicated to providing an end-to-end digital video solution at the system level to meet the needs of broadcasters," said Scott Cooper, president of Vela Research. "This newest release of Argus provides full-featured MPEG encoding that can be combined with Vela's industry-leading decoders to provide a complete broadcast quality solution. This complete product offering gives broadcasters one-stop shopping for the most advanced and highest quality solutions available today."
New Features Provide Argus Users With Leading Encoding System
Argus 3.0 is a full featured MPEG encoder on the Windows NT platform. New features available on Argus include variable bit rate encoding, caching FTP, improved API and inverse telecine. "Argus allows us maximum flexibility in our encoding process by providing excellent quality, reliability and interoperability," said Paul Roston, president of Roscor Corporation. "We have purchased six encoders and rely heavily on new features such as caching FTP and multiple audio channels to be able to broadcast 30 channels of programming on a single video server." The variable bit rate (VBR) encoding function of Argus 3.0 has two modes, VBR encoding for DVD and VBR encoding for storage. When using VBR encoding for DVD applications, Argus 3.0 creates MPEG streams that vary the data rate to achieve better picture quality by increasing data rates during fast movement scenes while maintaining compliance with DVD drive speeds. VBR encoding for storage based environments creates MPEG streams that conform to the smallest file size by decreasing the data rate during low movement scenes. A new option of Argus 3.0 is the caching FTP feature. While encoding from a video source, Argus 3.0 allows the user to simultaneously multiplex and transfer the file across a WAN or LAN using file transfer protocol (FTP) to a remote hard drive or server on the network. With this time-saving function, the user is never burdened with tedious file transfers after the encoding process. An important function of Argus 3.0, inverse telecine, is a process by which duplicate fields are eliminated. Film is shot at 24 frames-per-second as compared to video which is captured at 29.97 frames-per-second. So when film sources are transferred to video, fields are duplicated to increase the frame count appropriately. Argus 3.0 detects these redundant fields in film-originated video and removes them while encoding. By doing so, Argus 3.0 eliminates motion artifacts, improves encoding efficiency and allows for smooth playback of the encoded file. Vela Research offers a robust and versatile application programming interface (API) for Argus to empower integrators and developers in creating their applications. The Argus API gives developers the tools they need for enhanced interactivity and to maintain complete control over the Argus encoder. And, because Argus is a Windows NT based environment, ease of use and future-ready developments are guaranteed. Available as a rack-mount or desktop configuration, Argus 3.0 creates streams at MPEG-1 SIF, MPEG-2 Half D-1, MPEG-2 D-1 (FOE), and MPEG-2 D-1 (AFF) resolutions. To better serve its customers, Vela Research has added Digital Video Broadcast (DVB) enhancements to Argus 3.0. In Europe and the United States, many broadcasters are adopting the DVB standard. Argus 3.0 provides MPEG streams that are capable of being decoded on DVB compliant equipment. Argus 3.0 is available immediately at a base price starting at $30,000. Special upgrade pricing and options are available to current Argus users. On-going technical support and volume discount pricing are also available. Vela Research Inc. is a leader in video compression products for the cable and broadcast industry. Its extensive background in these markets as well as its presence on the ANSI NCITS L3-1 (MPEG) Committee provide the expertise to design and manufacture broadcast quality MPEG-2 video encoders and decoders. Vela Research provides a complete range of MPEG products through a world network of system integrators, OEM relationships and distributors. Vela Research has U.S. offices in St. Petersburg, Fla. and Andover, Mass. Vela Research also has a European subsidiary in Castlenau De Brassac, France. Additional information may be found on the World Wide Web at vela.com .
Vela Research is a registered trademark of Vela Research, Inc. Argus is a trademark of Vela Research, Inc. All other products or company names are trademarks of their respective holders.
Product slides and review copies are available upon request.
CONTACT: Vela Research, Inc.
Mark Fears, 813/572-1230 x. 7287
mfears@vela.com
or
Collaborative Communications, Inc.
Dan Sher, 617/520-9105
sher@collaborative.com
or
Lucien Brodeur, 617/520-9117
brodeur@collaborative.com
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