FOR-A Displays Full Product Line at IBC 2011

File-based Products
Making its IBC debut, the LTR-120HS video archiving recorder uses a high-quality AVC-Intra/DVCPRO codec and MXF wrapper/un-wrapper to record MXF files that can be used by a variety of NLE systems to LTO-5 tape. Designed to enable “archive at ingest” solutions, it can record video footage as an MXF file in real time by simply pressing “record” and “play” on the convenient front panel controls. FOR-A’s LTR-100HS, which was introduced last year, and supports various MPEG-2 video formats, will also be on display.

Housed in a compact, vibration-resistant 1 RU case, the MBP-100SX MXF clip server and baseband converter offers mutual conversion between MXF (XDCAM) files and HD/SD-SDI signals for ingest applications. A solid-state drive can be installed to create a highly redundant playback environment as well.

Video Switchers
The HVS-350HS HD/SD 1.5 M/E digital video switcher has a compact footprint but offers eight inputs and outputs standard (expandable to 24 inputs and 12 outputs). Other standard features include two keyer and four DSK channels, four still stores, dual-channel 16-split multiviewer, two channels of dedicated picture-in-picture, and more than 100 2D and 3D transitions and effects. A new interface allows the HVS-350HS to control the Abekas Mira production server, so users can review clips, set in/out points, and control playback from up to four independent video channels through the switcher control panel. It is an ideal combination for live sports instant replay, concerts and other events, and studio applications.

For mobile or small production facilities, the HVS-300HS offers four HD/SD-SDI inputs and outputs standard (expandable to 12 inputs and eight outputs). Its 10-bit processor supports 1080i, 720p, NTSC, and PAL formats, and built-in frame synchronizers on each input, as well as a resizing engine on four inputs, allow asynchronous signals – including HD, SD, analog, and PC signals – to be switched in the same program. 

For additional functionality, the HVS-4000 multi-format video switcher is available in 2 M/E, 2.5 M/E, or 3 M/E models with a choice of control panels, and is loaded with standard features to handle complex video productions. With 16 inputs and outputs standard (expandable to 48 inputs and 24 outputs), it includes a built-in 4/10/16-split multiviewer, direct access to preset content, including a macro bus and event recall button for each M/E, and integrated control of various devices.

Video Conversion/Processing
FOR-A will offer a demonstration of its new file-based frame rate converter technology, which builds on its industry leading position in frame rate conversion. Its current product line will be on display at IBC as well, including the FRC-8000 standalone frame rate converter and the UFM-30FRC modular frame rate converter, which can be installed in its UFM frame. Both models offer a variety of advanced features including motion compensation processing and up/down/cross conversion of HD and SD content.

The FA-9500 HD/SD multipurpose signal processor offers frame sync and video and audio conversion tools, as well as a variety of options for improved video production functionality. It supports 3G-SDI, HD/SD-SDI, and analog composite I/O, and provides up/down/cross/aspect conversion, color correction, automatic video optimization, and a second converter for simultaneous HD/SD output.

Live Production Gear
A demonstration stage in FOR-A’s booth shows the VRCAM2 sensor-less virtual studio system that was developed for one-man operation, no-cameraman production environments. Powered by FOR-A’s MBP-1244 Video Platform, it enables instant switching of multiple CG sets, as well as object edit that allows position, size, angle, color, and texture editing. It also provides control of up to four virtual cameras (with up to 32 preset positions per camera), and offers easy playlist creation for one-touch operation of complicated event sequences.

Plus, FOR-A will unveil its new SmartStudio production system at IBC2011. The affordable PC-based system includes a video switcher for up to four inputs, template-based CG built around the Brainstorm interface, and built-in clip player that can playback multiple files in full HD. An optional chroma key board turns SmartStudio into a virtual studio system.

FOR-A will also demonstrate its VFC-7000 HD super slow-motion camera, which offers high-speed playout and recording in full frame HD (720/50p or 720/59.94p) at up to 700 frames per second, with variable recording speed from 125 to 700 fps. With its high-sensitivity CMOS color senor, its high-speed shutter can operate as fast as 1/200,000 second for filming fast moving events and subjects without blur.

Multi Viewers
The compact MV-42HS supports up to four asynchronous or mixed HD-SDI and SD-SDI inputs – including 1080i, 1080p, and 720p sources – at a variety of frame rates. For more advanced display needs, FOR-A’s MV-3200 Series multi viewer provides customizable support for up to 32 inputs and four display outputs. The choice of input boards provides support for various asynchronous HD/SD-SDI, analog composite, and DVI signals, as well as analog or AES audio.

‘ARCHIVE AT INGEST’
The LTR-120HS supports AVC-Intra100, AVC-Intra50, DVCPRO HD, DVCPRO50, and DVCPRO files. Designed to enable “archive at ingest” solutions, it can record video footage as an MXF file in real time by simply pressing “record” and “play” on the convenient front panel controls.

With its internal hard drive, and with each LTO-5 tape providing 1.5 TB of recording capacity and LTFS portable file system, the LTR-120HS also doubles as a material/program exchange media server. The unit features HD/SD-SDI I/O, gigabit Ethernet interface for file-based I/O, and RS-422 for external VTR control. Housed in a compact chassis that is only three RU high and a half-rack wide, the LTR-120HS also includes a built-in LCD screen for convenient monitoring.

“The new LTR-120HS  builds on the success of the LTR-100HS, which was introduced last year and supports various MPEG-2 video formats,” said Hiro Tanoue, General Manager, Americas/Europe Group, Overseas Sales and Marketing Division, FOR-A Company Limited. “LTO-5 high-capacity tape provides a simple, reliable, and cost-effective archive solution for broadcasters with AVC-Intra and DVCPRO file-based workflows. Our LTR product line is also an important part of  FOR-A’s MediaConcierge content management system.”