Pixel Power @ NAB 2012

“Graphics are no longer planned and executed from a single point in the broadcast chain. So Pixel Power graphics now pervade every aspect of the operation, putting functionality where business, creative, distribution and workflow requirements need them,” said Pixel Power Inc. CEO Pete Challinger. “The combination of our new Gallium automation system with our powerful integrated playout systems like ChannelMaster and other graphics appliances enable the creation of broadcast operations that encourage sharing of resources across channels, reduce workload requirements, and optimise delivery.”

Gallium is Pixel Power’s new integrated scheduling, asset management and automation system for playout facilities that need automated control of Pixel Power transmission devices, including ChannelMaster, for graphics or complete channel playout. Gallium goes beyond the usual ‘channel in a box’ automation to provide a true enterprise calibre, scalable, automated transmission solution. Gallium can manage delivery of multi -format content for web, mobile, and IPTV applications - including 601, HD-SDI and file-based outputs. The resulting fully automated environment maximises sharing across multiple channels, reduces workload and resource requirements, and enhances delivery and consistency. This architecture is capable of scaling readily to more than one hundred channels that can all be monitored from a single operator position.

ChannelMaster integrated channel playout systems combine storage, graphics, DVE, audio, subtitling, master control, live feed and long-form video playout all within a single dedicated hardware platform. ChannelMaster changes expectations about what can be done with integrated playout. Bringing the full feature set of a traditional Master Control switcher to the integrated playout environment, ChannelMaster includes an optional hardware panel for operator driven live switching.  Inside ChannelMaster is dedicated processing that supports a full range of sophisticated graphics including real-time 3D, multichannel clips with alpha and unlimited layers. A single ChannelMaster unit can be configured as one complex channel with preview or two simpler channels.

“Cost is ultimately the biggest factor driving broadcasters to consider channel-in-a-box solutions. A Gallium-ChannelMaster bundle costs significantly less than a functionally-equivalent system using conventional equipment and automation. In fact, the more sophisticated a channel will be graphically, the greater the savings to be had,” said Challinger.