Avid Technology has announced the immediate availability of version 2.5 of its AirSpeed multipurpose video ingest and playout server.
The new version can run in an Avid Unity shared storage environment and, for the first time, as a standalone video server. As a standalone system, AirSpeed 2.5 can connect directly to all Avid editing workstations over a network and provide direct ingest and playout to and from these systems.
AirSpeed, working in conjunction with NewsCutter editors, can speed the process of getting content to air and play a key role in transitioning from conventional tape decks to a file-based server system. The system integrates with existing equipment, applications and processes, including third-party automation systems. AirSpeed 2.5 also delivers several new features, including support for 720p/50 formats for streamlined HD ingest on PAL projects.
The system is available either with front-panel video control and monitoring, which includes new on-screen display functionality showing information about clips during ingest and playout, or with increased storage capacity (in place of the front-panel monitoring controls) for HD workflows.
Avid AirSpeed 2.5 is available now in a standard configuration for $18,000, or a version with four times greater storage capacity and without front-panel controls and monitor for $20,000. Current AirSpeed customers under the Avid Assurance program can upgrade to AirSpeed 2.5 for free on the Avid Download Center.
For more information, visit www.avid.com/.
