EVENTS
AVIWEST presents RACK Series: video encoders for live contribution and remote/at-home production AVIWEST unveils the new RACK Series (RACK300 and RACK200), the next generation of the company’s video contribution encoder. By integrating a “best-inclass” hardware H.265/HEVC encoder as well as an H.264/AVC encoder into a compact platform, the RACK Series is designed for spaceconstrained live production, including contribution applications and multicamera remote/at-home productions. The solutions are set to be released this summer. The RACK Series is designed to be deployed in fixed locations and directly connected on wired IP networks, offering an alternative to satellite or fiber. In addition, the RACK Series can be used on vans or trucks and connected to a roofmounted AVIWEST QUAD CellLink 3G/4G antenna or KA satellite transmitter, 26
“enabling video broadcast from any location around the world.” Equipped with a touch screen, the unit supports multiple operational modes including live, record, live and record, file forward, and data hot spot for high-speed internet connectivity. All of these operations are possible in only two taps on the touch screen. The brand-new RACK Series also features a SIP-based intercom to simplify communications between the master control room on the broadcaster premises and remote operators in the field. Another key benefit of the RACK hybrid encoder is its video return function. “In less than one second”, it enables remote crews to receive the on-air feed from the studio, receive teleprompting information, and ensure the live stream is being delivered properly. In addition, the device can synchronously backhaul multiple live feeds with perfect genlock and lip sync across multiple cameras. The RACK Series embeds
a full HD encoder to reach low bit rates at subsecond latency without comprising on video quality. Powered by the “double-award-winning” SST technology (Safe Streams Transport), the RACK encoder offers “ultra-reliable transmission on any network, thanks to an intelligent IP-bonding stack that aggregates all available bandwidth without needing to stop a live transmission, even as connections are added or dropped”, according to the press release. “As broadcasters aim to deliver superior-quality video content for live events, data costs are spiraling out of control. The RACK Series features