The new LiveShot low-latency Video-over-IP codec from Comrex has been specifically optimised to perform well on challenging IP networks like 3G, 4G and satellite-based links. Packaged as a single integrated unit, it incorporates data aggregation and diversity among numerous modes of data connectivity. It is being launched at IBC (stand 11.G11), encodes and decodes video using the H.264-High profile, and implements higher-complexity options as standard to maximize quality over poor networks and decrease latency. Dual codecs allow streaming at different qualities to two different destinations – for example, live over the internet at a lower data rate and full-HD to the in-built SD memory card for FTP upload. For audio it uses HE-AAC and AAC-ELD audio coding to reduce network bandwidth and delay. LiveShot has a high-gain WiFi USB adapter and supports a wide range of 3G and 4G USB modems, which connect via two USB ports that can be combined to aggregate the bandwidth of the data connection or provide diversity using load balancing. The modems plug into two flexible gooseneck-style adapters, to elevate them above the camera. They are also bendable to provide proper physical spacing between the antennae and to survive hitting doorways or other obstructions. An Ethernet port can be used for connecting satellite terminals. Full HD (up to1080p) broadcast-quality live video streaming using intelligent forward error correction coupled with dynamic decoder jitter buffer management should keep delay to a minimum with LiveShot able to encode and decode an audio/video stream with less than 200ms delay. It also has Store and Forward. Voice Stacs up Also new from Comrex at IBC is STAC-VIP, which allows broadcasters to benefit from the change to Voice-over-IP telephony, as it integrates legacy PSTN/POTS lines with VoIP to deliver a new way to manage telephone calls for talk shows, interviews and contests. It can handle calls from HD Voice-capable phones offering 7kHz audio or high quality calls from Skype users, making it useful as a central hub for reporters and citizen journalists. It can process up to 12 incoming VoIP calls on a single DSL line using telephone-grade G.729 audio compression, providing huge cost savings. POTS and ISDN lines can be accommodated via VoIP Gateway devices that provide conversion of POTS/PSTN, ISDN and T1/E1 telephone lines to a SIP-compatible VoIP trunk for connection to the STAC-VIP Mainframe. The new VIP QC (Quick-Connect) app for iPhone and Android puts wideband HD Voice in the hands of remote guests so they sound more like they’re in the studio. The app presents users with the latest list of stations that participate; once a target station is selected no other configuration is necessary. www.vtx.co.uk By David Fox
