Screen Subtitling Systems has bought SysMedia, which it claims will enable customers to benefit from an integrated product range and extensive industry expertise, from broadcast to online and connected TVs, writes David Fox.
“The combination of Screen and SysMedia marks an exciting new development in the industry – it combines decades of expertise in subtitling and broadcast technology and will harmonise world-leading product ranges,” said Screen’s Managing Director, Matt Deakin.
“Existing and prospective customers of both businesses will benefit from an integrated product range and a collective knowledge pool that will pave the way for exciting, future product development.”
Founded in 1976, as Screen Electronics, Screen launched the first ever electronic subtitling system, providing the first digital character generator to the BBC. The firm launched the first DVB subtitling system in 1998 and introduces its Polistream subtitle transmission system in 2002. With the arrival in 2009 of its smaller, more environmentally friendly Polistream Black, Screen met customer demand for sustainability and tighter rack-space budgets. This year it moved into 3D subtitling with its 3Ditor.
Andrew Lambourne, SysMedia’s Chief Executive (pictured) commented: “Formalising our union with Screen is a vastly positive strategy for each of the respective businesses and our customers alike. We are looking forward to capitalising on our synergies with Screen and to continuing to grow a successful business.”
SysMedia has more than 30 year’s expertise in developing and supplying the television industry with value-added hardware and software, using innovative product design intended to deliver productivity, quality and capability, as well as solid customer support.
One of its key products is the SysMedia WinCAPS offline and live subtitle preparation systems, a range extended most recently with the launch of WinCAPS Qu4ntum and Q-Live. Its Plasma Gold multi-platform information publishing system has enabled teletext broadcasters to reach out onto middleware platforms, web and mobile, and the newly launched SysMedia Connect product extends this reach to connected TV.
Screen Subtitling Systems was itself acquired last year by BNP Paribas as part of the SDI Media group of companies, which offers localisation services (including subtitling, dubbing and post-production) via facilities in more than 30 countries across Europe, Asia and the Americas.
