StreamMaster BRAND is a software-defined branding and graphics playout engine for 24/7 transmission. It is format agnostic, scalable and flexible, and efficiently automates graphics playout and channel branding. Its cost-effectiveness means that online servers, tier two and tier three channels can now have the same branding values as tier one broadcasts.

StreamMaster BRAND

Pixel Power

www.pixelpower.com

CATEGORY
Broadcast Graphics - Automation

Using a singular workflow, StreamMaster BRAND is designed to meet a wide range of automated graphics playout and channel branding needs. It is an efficient and highly cost-effective solution for delivering graphics reliably and without operator intervention.

Incorporating the proven real-time 3D graphics from Pixel Power, StreamMaster BRAND is a true uncompromised integrated playout device. It provides all the switching, graphics sequences and DVE moves, and integrates simply with third-party products and software – including automation systems – making it the ideal solution for channels which are making the transition to IP.

Because of its use of standard Commercial-Off-The-Shelf (COTS) IT hardware, it offers a totally new degree of flexibility and opportunity than systems which rely on bespoke hardware. Feature and Standards updates can be developed and deployed more easily and faster. StreamMaster BRAND also allows new pricing models, including licensing which moves the cost from capex to pay-as-you-go, which might better match income streams for the broadcaster or playout operators.

StreamMaster is designed fully in software, operates within the IP environment and can be virtualized in a data centre or in the cloud. However, recognising the need for transition in most broadcast operations, the same software platform can run in dedicated hardware, and supports SDI I/O cards ensuring the system is as effective in today’s broadcast infrastructure while offering the transition to either a fully IP or virtualized world.

StreamMaster is a modular, software-defined media processing technology platform which builds on the company’s 30-year plus track record in master control, playout and graphics excellence, whilst being completely re-imagined as a fully virtualizable architecture.

One broadcaster that has seen the benefit of the Pixel Power developments is Virgin Media Television (formerly TV3) in Ireland.

“In an increasingly competitive market, the broadcaster wanted to increase the vigour and prominence of its branding and promotions across all its portfolio including SD, HD and multi-platform outputs,” says Ciarán Doran, Marketing Director. “Recognising that this could best be accomplished through automated conforming and fulfilment of graphics, the company investigated our solution.”

The result was the introduction of Pixel Power StreamMaster BRAND. The system, which comprises the latest software solution running on COTS hardware, manages content across multiple channels and formats, and delivers the power of the graphics and branding engines. Using a single workflow and schedule, the system enables the automatic selection and insertion of the right graphics version at the right time and the right channel, as well as managing the squeeze-backs, and allowing separate and different branding content in the SD and HD streams.

Doran concluded, “Virgin Media purchased StreamMaster BRAND to enable it to deliver graphics and branding efficiently, right at the point of playout. So instead of preparing a fully finished graphic, or sequence that is time consuming to change and doesn’t react to last minute schedule changes, the creative department now creates templates on which all the elements are then built just moments before going to air. This ensures that any changes in the schedule results in new and relevant graphics prepared accordingly.”