To: Don Johnstone who wrote (11792 ) 6/7/1999 8:37:00 AM From: zbyslaw owczarczyk Read Replies (1) | Respond to of 18016
FOR:PIXSTREAM INCORPORATED(NN affiliate ) JUNE 7, 1999 PixStream Introduces VDSmanager Portfolio Of Video Networking Management Software ATLANTA, GEORGIA-- PixStream VDSmanager enables centralized management of hardware configuration and monitoring, as well as operational control of MPEG-2 digital video SUPERCOMM '99 PixStream Incorporated, a leading developer of video networking solutions, announced today the PixStream VDSmanager portfolio of video networking management software. PixStream is displaying the VDSmanager at Supercomm '99 at the Georgia World Congress Center in Atlanta, Georgia, June 8-10, 1999, with iMagicTV in booth No. 1555 and Newbridge Networks in booth No. 7715. The new video networking management software was designed to centrally manage all aspects of hardware configuration and monitoring, as well as manage the operational control of MPEG-2 digital video coming to and from PixStream video networking platforms. VDSmanager modules provide organizations with all of the tools needed to manage network connectivity and scheduling. There are currently three main product areas in the portfolio: VDSmanager Java Unit Manager, VDSmanager Network Management Integration Modules and VDSmanager Applications Framework. The PixStream VDSmanager Java Unit Manager is web-based management software that acts as a "front panel" to the PixStream VDS5000 and PixStream VDS2000 video networking platforms. Users can configure initial video parameters, set up new video components and monitor and manage video networking systems by simply pointing their web browsers at the PixStream video networking platforms. These platforms web serve their own Java-based configuration utilities. The VDSmanager Java Unit Manager was developed using Java technology to ensure that PixStream's systems can be controlled from any platform. PixStream developed VDSmanager Network Management Integration Modules to allow PixStream video networking systems to be seamlessly integrated with existing control and provisioning management infrastructures. Two modules are currently available: VDSmanager HP OpenView(TM) Integration Module and VDSmanager Newbridge MainStreetXpress(TM) 45020/46020 Integration Module. These modules enable organizations to manage new video services within their existing network management systems. "Our customers have invested heavily in their network management infrastructures," said Dave Caputo, Vice President of Marketing, PixStream. "We wanted to ensure that PixStream video networking systems would enhance our customers' service offerings, quickly and painlessly, without them needing to change the way that they currently operate their network." VDSmanager Network Management Integration Modules use the SNMP support provided by the PixStream VDS5000 and PixStream VDS2000, and provision the network to provide high-level quality of service that is demanded by video networking applications. For additional support of higher level operational control, the PixStream VDSmanager portfolio also offers the VDSmanager Applications Framework. PixStream has developed solution-oriented modules for specific operator applications and tasks such as: centralized management of multiple PixStream video networking systems, simultaneous program substitution and video scheduling. "From the highest level of configuration to the most detailed adjustments and monitoring, the VDSmanager Applications Framework automates many of an organization's most complex tasks to improve efficiency and operational productivity," said Caputo. One of the modules in the VDSmanager Applications Framework is the VDSmanager Program Substitution Manager module. As a TV services supplier, it is sometimes necessary to substitute local programming for non-local content. At other times, such as during sports blackouts, program distribution rights will require that alternative programs be broadcast. Traditionally, broadcasters have had to manually switch the channels, causing a disruption in the viewer's television service. The VDSmanager Program Substitution Manager automatically substitutes one channel for another with minimal interruption in television service. "PixStream VDSmanager software works with digital television signals to automate traditional manual broadcasting tasks," Caputo added. In combination with the PixStream VDS5000 and the PixStream VDS2000 video networking systems, the VDSmanager Program Substitution Manager's intuitive user interface makes simultaneous program substitution simple and, most importantly, reliable. PixStream video networking systems are targeted to network service providers looking to introduce TV content redistribution from head-end locations to the home, video courier services and interactive video services such as broadband video conferencing, interactive distance learning (IDL), tele-medicine and monitoring applications. Pricing and Contact Information Pricing is dependent on the various modules selected. For sales information, contact PixStream at +1 519-884-4196 or e-mail video@pixstream.com. PixStream Incorporated PixStream develops, manufactures and globally markets hardware and software solutions that enable network service providers and enterprises to reliably distribute and manage digital video. Using PixStream solutions, high quality video and audio can be transported more efficiently over broadband networks, optimizing bandwidth and enabling customers to introduce leading-edge video services and applications. Founded in 1996, PixStream is based in Waterloo, Ontario, Canada. More information is available at www.pixstream.com. All company and/or product names are trademarks and/or registered trademarks of their respective owners.