Thomson Video Networks’ new ViBE CP6000 is a dedicated multi-format high-performance platform for live video contribution over IP or satellite networks, writes David Fox. It is claimed to offer ‘a far greater density than comparable products’ and its capacity of up to eight HD channels in a single 1RU chassis is cited as a key advantage for live broadcasting, saving space and lowering energy consumption. Its modular design allows users to select the optimal MPEG contribution codecs for their particular needs, and it is claimed to offer ‘industry-leading compression performance’. Developed as a multiformat system for broadcasters, video carriers, network operators, and telecoms, the ViBE CP6000 provides high-quality transport of live HD and SD content over IP or satellite contribution networks. The CP6000 is based on the ATCA telecom standard with high backplane throughput to address future applications, making it ‘a future-proof contribution platform designed to optimise customer investment and minimise the cost of ownership.’ It is ready for 3Gbps SDI applications (1080p50/59.97), while its dual-channels-per-module architecture addresses 3D applications. Hot-swappable modules allow for instant exchange without disturbing channels in use, a feature that also enables the system’s easy setup, expansion, and maintenance. Its modular design means that MPEG-4 and MPEG-2 codecs ranging from 8-bit 4:2:0 up to 10-bit 4:2:2 can be added, as required, by software license. When configured for large deployments, the CP6000 can be monitored or controlled by Thomson’s XMS Management System. “The ViBE CP6000 is a breakthrough in convenience, performance, and energy efficiency for sport events, news, studio interconnection, and backhaul from the broadcast centre to playout,” said Christophe Delahousse, president of Thomson Video Networks. “In this latest evolution of the extremely successful ViBE compression technology, the CP6000 brings together for the first time a class-leading combination of capabilities packaged in a way that really fits the contribution needs of today and tomorrow’s broadcasters and content providers.” www.thomson-networks.com
