Archive is vital but there is no one-size-fits-all approach, says Lee Sheppard, SGL director Product Management
Not long ago, the archive was perceived as back-end middleware hidden behind the automation system; but not anymore. Now the archive is a key component for managing content and workflows. Global broadcasters large and small require sophisticated archive technology that enables them to manage and store their assets.
However, like many technologies there isn’t a one-size-fits-all approach. A large archive with full disaster recovery workflows may not be appealing to a smaller broadcaster in a single location with fewer assets. SGL is providing a solution to this problem with the launch of FlashPack at IBC2015 on booth 7.J15a. A complete turnkey archiving system designed for use with all major media and production asset management systems, FlashPack provides a cost-effective, entry-level archive system with no extra hardware, no extra software and no hidden costs.
SGL FlashPack is a complete archive and content management solution that includes all the features required for a fully integrated, infinitely scalable media archive such as hardware, software, support and integration with a MAM or production system. At the heart of FlashPack is SGL FlashNet, the industry leading content archive and storage management solution. FlashPack harnesses FlashNet’s power, resilience and scalability, in a compact entry-level solution. It is ideal for broadcasters, sports venues, post production houses, corporate communications and other organisations that need to manage their media assets.
Implementation is simple and is completed remotely, linking FlashPack to the user’s MAM or PAM system. FlashPack is easily manageable by creative professionals, not requiring dedicated IT resources.
The FlashPack infrastructure can be used as part of any future expansion, meaning that growth of the archive does not necessarily entail significant outlay on new hardware. Ultimately, the server and library may be incorporated as storage elements in a full FlashNet cluster solution. FlashPack’s extensive combination of upgrade paths and hardware recyclability provides significant ROI for all organisations.
The FlashPack complete storage archive addresses the need for a separate, self-contained system providing a price versus performance ratio that lowers the cost of entry while ensuring the key business criteria of future scalability and security.
As well as FlashPack, SGL is showcasing new technology and third-party integration projects for the first time in Europe at IBC2015. This includes a full archive demonstration via a GV Stratus MAM hosted by a Grass Valley presenter.
SGL is showing its Direct Connect solution for Avid ISIS users. Direct Connect allows high resolution material to be quickly transferred providing significant benefits when working with longer form content.
The company is also highlighting its Asset Migration Service. The migration of tape assets from one platform to another, or from one generation to another is a costly and time-consuming process. The FlashNet Migration Service enables a whole migration to be set up as a single background task that optimises the use of available archiving equipment and speeds up processes, reducing migration times by half.
