Skype-Based Interviews for Live Productions Made Easy through Broadcast Pix, Quicklink Partnership

Announced at the 2014 NAB Show, Skype TX software delivers high quality audio and video output specifically designed to connect broadcasters and other media professionals with Skype users around the world. Quicklink was named an official Skype TX hardware partner in September and began shipping its Quicklink TX hardware solution last month.

Powered by Skype TX software, the 1 RU Quicklink TX appliance allows producers and engineers to manage Skype audio and/or video for broadcast without the need to scan convert from a PC. Whether the source is a laptop or desktop, mobile phone or tablet, or even a game console, Quicklink TX performs all scaling and provides frame accurate video to any Flint™, Mica™, or Granite™ integrated production switcher. The Skype call is delivered to the Broadcast Pix production switcher as any other HD video source via HD-SDI with embedded audio.

Quicklink TX’s call management allows Skype video calls to be seamlessly integrated into any production without subjecting users to pop-up ads or interference from other nearby calls. Plus, if line quality becomes unacceptable for transmitting live video, the Quicklink TX falls back to a still image while maintaining audio call quality.

“We are excited to announce the partnership with Broadcast Pix,” explained Richard Rees, CEO of Quicklink. “The Quicklink TX is an easy to use, simplified broadcast solution that is a great compliment to the Broadcast Pix video production systems.”

“Broadcast Pix pioneered delivering cloud-based content to integrated production switchers. Our partnership with Quicklink provides an even easier way to incorporate Skype interviews from around the world into live broadcasts,” said Steve Ellis, CEO of Broadcast Pix. “With the ability to connect Skype individual and multiple calls to our switchers without requiring additional inputs, Quicklink TX and Broadcast Pix deliver an unbeatable solution for live production.”

About Quicklink 
Headquartered in the UK, Quicklink is one of the leading global provider for cost effective, high quality broadcast solutions in the fields of news, sport, entertainment and corporate media and provides over 400 TV stations with software and hardware IP solutions for the transmission of live and edited video. Our solutions are the best available for achieving superb video and audio quality from low speed connections or unstable internet connections. Our solutions enable broadcasters, militaries and emergency services to choose a solution that best suit their specific needs and the daily challenges encountered. Optimisation of available bandwidth using our advanced software and enhanced codec means that outstanding results can be achieved from a variety of available network connections.

About Broadcast Pix
Founded in 2002, Broadcast Pix is a leader in integrated production switchers with broadcast, corporate, education, government, religious, sports, streaming, and visual radio customers in more than 110 countries. From compact systems with end-to-end integration to large-scale systems for high-end live productions, Broadcast Pix switchers feature Fluent Control, a patented combination of automation technology and performance tools to optimize workflows. Every switcher includes dual-channel CG and clip stores, ClearKey chromakey and virtual sets, file-based macros, external device control, and customizable multi-view. Broadcast Pix also offers ReVue slow motion systems, FX3D real-time 3D graphics, Rapid CG dynamic graphic playout software, VOX visual radio automation software, and patented control options for its switchers.