CYPRESS, Calif.—FOR-A Corporation has announced that the live video production company Custom Media Solutions (CMS) has launched a new 40-foot broadcast production truck with a FOR-A HVS-2000 video switcher. The truck has been in use since mid-January, including on location for live coverage of Camping World’s Ultimate RV Expo.

Marc Shroyer, president of CMS, said the company took delivery of the truck in early November. “We got it to replace our 24-foot production trailer,” he explained. “It was great, but you could only put eight people in it, and there was not a great space for audio. When everything started going virtual, we really needed to create some space for broadcast audio.”

Originally, the truck had been designed to use CRT monitors, so CMS modernized the interior with an eye on flexibility. The infrastructure was designed to support 12G with all I/O via fiber, so the truck can be upgraded by swapping only a few components. Plus, audio is handled through Dante digital audio networking.

Shroyer reported that CMS recently added five new 4K broadcast cameras that produce footage in a variety of frame rates, including 24p, which is a feature that clients had been requesting. The FOR-A switcher supports 24p, as well as a number of HD and SD formats.

CMS currently owns 10 FOR-A switchers, including four HVS-2000s. “The HVS-2000 can do everything we need, and its price point is significantly less than the switchers many companies would expect to find in a truck of this size," Shroyer said. “If you want to talk about bang for the buck, we were doing things on this switcher that you normally need a much more expensive switcher to do. I can do anything the client wants to do. It’s our secret sauce.”

For example, CMS will use the truck in April to produce live coverage of a large corporate conference in Atlanta. Shroyer said the HVS-2000 will be used to switch both the live broadcast and the I-MAG (image magnification) for the live event. Instead of running feeds between trucks to accommodate the simultaneous productions, a second control panel will simply be added to the switcher, and the directors will sit next to each other during production.

“It’s easy to add a panel. You just plug in a network cable and you’re ready to go,” Shroyer added. “We have plenty of I/O, plus plenty of multi-view and keyers and DVEs – and that creates a lot of flexibility.”

Compatible with four different control panels, the HVS-2000 2 M/E video switcher offers 24 inputs and 18 outputs as standard, and can be expanded up to 48/18 or 40/22 with optional I/O cards. The switcher also includes MELite technology that previews output from an AUX bus when applying transitions or keying for expanded M/E performance, as well as FLEXaKEY architecture for flexible reassignment of keyers separate from the standard keyers of full M/E buses, FOR-A said.

Custom Media Solutions will hold an open house on February 15 from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. at its headquarters in Alpharetta. The open house will provide an opportunity to get hands-on with equipment and see demonstrations of the latest offerings at CMS. Registration is available here.

Cypress, CA, October 21, 2019 – With its live WALLCAST® simulcasts and concert auditorium surrounded by an immersive projection system, the Miami-based New World Symphony (NWS) features unprecedented integration of technology into its educational, rehearsal, and performance spaces. The New World Symphony prepares graduates of top music schools for leadership roles in orchestras and ensembles around the world. It combines teaching and technical innovation in a way that brings classical music into the 21 century and makes the music accessible to everyone.

When the leaders of NWS were looking to upgrade the already top-of-the-line audio and video infrastructure within the New World Center, their Frank Gehry-designed campus three years ago, they were set on a single-link 12G infrastructure as the backbone for the overall upgrade. They met with representatives from the Miami office of FOR-A to discuss FOR-A’s range of 12G 4K/UHD products.

“We determined early on that our specific needs would be best served by designing our new 4K/UHD upgrade project around a single-cable 12G infrastructure,” explained Clyde Scott, Director of Video Production, New World Symphony. “Most options were quad-link and 4K IP, but FOR-A was the only manufacturer to make a single-link 12G switcher large enough for our purposes. We demoed the switcher and were impressed with its capabilities and ease of use.”

After that, FOR-A’s Director of Latin Region Sales, Mario Rodriguez and Product Specialist Bob Peterson worked closely with NWS to identify several other key pieces of equipment in the company’s suite of 12G products that would work well in the new installation, including: a large 12G router, production servers, and terminal gear.

After a highly competitive review, NWS went all in with FOR-A, purchasing: a 4K/UHD production switcher, two routing switchers, 19 signal processors, integrated control software, a multi-viewer, four 12G/SDI servers, two 12G graphics systems, and nine modular universal system frames.

Among the FOR-A products selected is the recently introduced 3 M/E HANABI HVS-6000 12G-SDI production switcherOffering 12G-SDI capability on all inputs and outputs, the 3 M/E HANABI HVS-6000 uses a single cable link. Video signals are processed throughout as a single image. The HVS-6000 is a 12 RU switcher, with a maximum of 80 inputs/32 outputs or 64 inputs/48 outputs. It also offers frame synchronization, frame buffer, 3D DVE, and 4 keyers per M/E with DVE function + 4 DSKs. The switcher has an optional board-mounting SFP connector that supports an IP interface.

In addition to the HANABI main switcher panel, NWS is integrating a smaller 12-button HVS-2120ROU switcher panel into a remote control room for use with the main electronics for simultaneous use of the HANABI resources in multiple locations.

“We’re thrilled to support the New World Symphony in its incredible mission to enrich the Miami community with its classical music offerings and the organization’s progressive approach to the use of technology for education and performance,” said Rodriguez of FOR-A. “Everything at the New World Center is first class. We’re proud to be included with such high-end company. We’re confident that our equipment will more than meet their expectations, and we look forward to providing New World Symphony with our latest technology for many years to come.”

NWS presents approximately 70 performances each year, many of which include immersive projections and 12 of which are presented as live simulcasts on the 7,000 square foot exterior projection façade of its New World Center building (WALLCAST® Concerts). Inside, the concert auditorium also features a large complement of theatrical lighting, ten robotic 4K cameras and a full broadcast-style control booth, top-of-the-line audio recording and sound reinforcement equipment. The NWS system employs 1.8 petabytes (raw)/1.2 petabytes (useable) of R&S SpycerNode high performance media storage.

Every practice space in the New World Center is wired with connections for video and audio, as well as connected by miles of fiber to support the school’s robust distance learning program.

The following comprises the full FOR-A equipment rundown for NWS:

HVS-6000 video switcher with HVS-3355OUA and HVS-2120ROU
GearLink integrated control software

Insight 212 (12G-SDI) video server x 4
ClassX Pro 12G character generator x 2

MFR-6000 (144 x 144) routing switcher
MFR-3000 routing switcher
MV-4310 multi-viewer
FA-9600 signal processor x 18
USF-212AS universal system frame x 6
Modules:
USF-106UDC-12G 12G-SDI 4K/HD up/down converter x 2
USF-106DC-12G 12G-SDI 4K to HD down converter x6
USF-1100VEA 10-output analog video distributor x 2
USF-105DDA-12G 12G-SDI 5-output digital video distributor x 5
USF-111DDA-12G 12G-SDI 11-output digital video distributor
USF-101MDX4-12G 12G-SDI 4K audio multiplexer/demultiplexer with 8 channels of AES I/O x 2
USF-101MDX8-12G 12G-SDI 4K audio multiplexer/demultiplexer with 16 channels of AES I/O x 2
USF-105DADA 5-output unbalanced digital audio distributor

About FOR-A

FOR-A, a worldwide, industry-leading manufacturer, offers a wide range of broadcast and production products with a focus on cutting-edge technologies, including: HD, 4K and IP products. FOR-A continues to offer future-ready, cost effective, advanced technology solutions. Products include: video switchers, routing switchers, multi-viewers, full 4K high-speed cameras, IP encoders/decoders, multi-channel signal processors, 8K/4K/HD test signal generators, color correctors, frame synchronizers, file-based products, character generators, video servers and much more.

For a full range of HD and 4K production and processing solutions, as well as IP-based products, visit our web site at www.for-a.com.

# # #

FOR-A CORPORATION OF AMERICA, 11155 Knott Ave., Suite G&H, Cypress, CA 90630 Phone: 714-894-3311, Fax 714-894-5399 Web site:www.for-a.com

Cypress, CA, October 8, 2019 – FOR-A will demonstrate its focus on comprehensive product integration with a showcase of its range of signal processors, encoder/decoders, video production switchers, video servers, and graphics systems at the company’s booth at NAB Show New York. FOR-A® will exhibit in Booth N530 during the show which runs from October 16-17 in the Javits Center in New York City.

FOR-A’s NAB New York booth lineup includes the FA-9600 multi-purpose signal processor, the IP-HE950 encoder/decoder, HVS-490 HANABI switcher, Variant Systems Group’s Envivo Studio production suite and Envivo Replay sports and live event replay solution, ClassX content creation and graphics playout solution, the CG-Portable compact character generator, and the ODYSSEY Insight video server.

Aside from its NAB New York appearance, the FA-9600 multi-purpose signal processor is featured at other high-profile events, including October’s 2019 world rugby event, the 2020 Tokyo summer games, and the start of the new professional football leagues in Europe. The FOR-A FA-9600 dual channel signal processor is gaining attention from premiere broadcasters looking for the highest quality, image conversion technology for these prestigious events.

Fujitsu’s IP-HE950 real-time H.265/HEVC encoder/decoder units employs the latest compression tools and image processing algorithms to provide best-in-class video fidelity. The IP-HE950 supports real-time 4K contribution, as well as SD and HD. The IP-HE950 utilizes new H.265/HEVC technology, which can provide a two times compression ratio over H.264/AVC technology. FOR-A is a distributor of Fujitsu’s high-performance encoders and decoders in North America, Europe, Middle East and Africa, as well as select regions in Latin America.

The compact HANABI HVS-490 opens the door to more affordable 4K production. HDMI 2.0b specification support provides 4K output to a multi-viewer. Offering exclusive features, including MELite™ technology, which extends the switcher’s 2 M/Es to offer 6 M/E performance, the HVS-490 is designed for use in any live environment, including mobile shoots, events, and in-house corporate productions. The switcher provides users with event memory and macro functions, as well as integrated frame synchronizers and multi viewers.

Just introduced at NAB 2019 in April, Variant Systems will showcase the new Envivo Studio to NAB New York attendees. Envivo Studio is an all-in-one live production system that includes a clip player, still store, shot box, live switcher, internal keyer, coaching review tool and powerful capabilities including VDCP control, 24hr loop record inputs, and slow motion replay.

Envivo Replay offers a complete replay solution packaged in an intuitive user interface with continuous multiple iso-channel recording capabilities, simultaneous clip storage of multiple angles to clip bins, playlists for highlights playback, built-in branding capabilities, direct publishing to social media platforms, and support for high speed super slow-motion cameras. At NAB Show New York, both Envivo systems will be shown with a Dante audio interface, enabling the systems to support uncompressed, multi-channel, low latency digital audio over a standard Ethernet network. Studio and Replay also support NDI (Network Device Interface), a free protocol for Video-Over-IP.

A demo of the latest ClassX solution of 2D/3D character generation and live motion graphics and playout software integrated with FOR-A video switchers will be on the FOR-A booth. ClassX’s graphics suite of solutions is popular with universities, digital signage, live event, and sports production applications. FOR-A is the exclusive distributor of ClassX in North, Central and South America. The agreement provides broadcasters and live event producers with the ability to create and play out ClassX real-time broadcast graphics integrated with FOR-A video switchers.

The compact and low-cost character generator CG-Portable with Brainstorm software will be introduced for the first time in the U.S. during NAB New York. The unit provides a wide array of text and graphic functions, including two independent text overlays, static and animated logo insertion, timer overlay with up/down count, and fill/key mixing over live background video or uploaded graphics. With a rich feature set at an affordable price point, this unit is perfect for a variety of CG applications.

ODYSSEY’s Insight Production Server is a multi-channel playout system, available in a two- or four-channel configuration. Offering a Web interface for control from any device with a web browser (no installation required), the video server provides a wide range of supported wrappers and codecs for media contribution and video play out with time delay playback.

About FOR-A

FOR-A, a worldwide, industry-leading manufacturer, offers a wide range of broadcast and production products with a focus on cutting-edge technologies, including: HD, 4K and IP products. FOR-A continues to offer future-ready, cost effective, advanced technology solutions. Products include: video switchers, routing switchers, multi-viewers, full 4K high-speed cameras, IP encoders/decoders, multi-channel signal processors, 8K/4K/HD test signal generators, color correctors, frame synchronizers, file-based products, character generators, video servers and much more.

For a full range of HD and 4K production and processing solutions, as well as IP-based products, visit our web site at www.for-a.com.

# # #

FOR-A CORPORATION OF AMERICA, 11155 Knott Ave., Suite G&H, Cypress, C.A. 90630 Phone: 714-894-3311, Fax 714-894-5399 Web site: www.for-a.com 

Cypress, CA, June 17, 2019 – FOR-A Corporation of America announces the appointment of Mike Buchanan as Western Regional Sales Manager. Buchanan was most recently an executive with the Burbank-based systems integration firm, SIT Group, and was previously with Kramer Electronics. He will be based out of FOR-A’s Cypress, California office.

In his new role, Buchanan will be responsible for sales in CA, OR, WA, NV, UT, ID, AZ, NM, CO, WY, MT, AK, and HI which comprise FOR-A’s western United States region. He reports to Ken Truong, President, FOR-A Corporation of America.

“Given Mike’s history at some of the industry’s leading systems integration firms - supervising customer liaison, on-site project management, and writing proposals; managing the U.S. distribution channel and large accounts for Kramer; and experience as Sales Manager at broadcast supplier Bittree, he has a well-rounded view of our entire business,” said Truong. “He’s managed world-class, million-dollar projects from start to completion. Plus, he has a proven history of setting goals and seeing them through. We’re eager to share his talents with our current and prospective customers.”

Buchanan also looks forward to bringing his specific combination of talents to work at FOR-A. He has extensive experience selling complete solutions and project managing mission-critical PRO/AV and broadcast projects and background managing nationwide sales territories for established broadcast and PRO/AV manufacturers. Using that skillset, he’ll further develop partnerships between FOR-A and its consultants, system integrators, and end-users. His goal is to build upon FOR-A’s reputation of high-quality product, proven reliability, and excellent customer service by being easy to reach, knowledgeable about the product line, and striving to be a resource for his clients and co-workers.

“FOR-A has a rock-solid reputation,” said Buchanan. “We’re moving forward aggressively with our 12G and IP infrastructure technology. I plan bring the full breadth of FOR-A’s products and knowledge with me as we help customers invest in the video production infrastructure of the future.”

Another core mission for Buchanan will be to promote the success of FOR-A’s recent integration with third party graphics, replay systems and production servers, including partner products such as: the ODYSSEY Insight video server; the ClassX content creation and graphics playout solution; Variant Systems Group’s Envivo Replay sports and live event replay solution; Media Links’ IP Media Gateway, Fujitsu’s IP-HE950 H.265/HEVC real-time video encoders; and InSync's frame synchronizer, frame rate converter, and up/down converters.

“FOR-A makes a comprehensive range of world class products, including a single-link 12G switcher and the FA Series of signal processors which are recognized as the gold standard in video processing, as well as significant new partnerships. Making those areas shine will be the key to my success.”

Buchanan can be reached in the FOR-A Cypress office at (714) 723-1100 or via email at buchanan@for-a.com.

Cypress, CA, May 28, 2019 – A range of flexible video production switchers, video servers, and graphics systems that consistently support both 12G-SDI/4K and 3G-SDI/HD resolution will be a focal point of the FOR-A® booth at the upcoming InfoComm Show in Orlando. Demonstrating video production solutions for corporate video, worship, sports and live event applications, FOR-A will exhibit in Exhibit Hall, West Level 2, Booth 1861 during the show which runs from June 8-14 in the Orlando Convention Center.

FOR-A’s booth lineup includes the HVS-490 and HVS-1200 HANABI switchers, Variant Systems Group’s Envivo Studio production suite and Envivo Replay sports and live event replay solution, ClassX content creation and graphics playout solution, and the ODYSSEY Insight video server.

The compact HANABI HVS-490 opens the door to more affordable 4K production. HDMI 2.0b specification support provides 4K output to a multi-viewer. Offering exclusive features, including MELite™ technology, which extends the switcher’s 2 M/Es to offer 6 M/E performance, the HVS-490 is designed for use in any live environment, including mobile shoots, events, and in-house corporate productions. The switcher provides users with event memory and macro functions, as well as integrated frame synchronizers and multi viewers - making it easy to set up quickly for live performances.

The HANABI HVS-1200, a compact 4K/HD compatible switcher, builds on the features of the HANABI HVS-490 video switcher and adds 12G-SDI support as standard. The switcher also utilizes a single cable for image processing and is configurable as both a 12G-SDI/4K and as a 3G-SDI/HD switcher. In HD mode, the switcher accepts up to 40 inputs, and in 4K mode it accepts up to 10. In 4K mode, the switcher provides 2 M/E performance (1 M/E + 1 MELite™), and in HD mode it’s a 6 M/E (2 M/E + 4 MELite) switcher virtually.

Just introduced at NAB 2019, Variant Systems will showcase the new Envivo Studio to InfoComm attendees. Shown for the first time at InfoComm, Envivo Studio is an all-in-one live production system that includes a clip player, still store, shot box, and powerful capabilities, including:

- Live switcher (cut camera inputs)

- Internal keyer (multi-layer overlay)

- Switcher support (key/fill)

- Drive multiple venue screens (IMAG)

- VDCP control

- 24hr loop record inputs

- Built-in slow-motion replay

- Coaching review tool

- Time shift

FOR-A is the exclusive distributor of Variant Systems Group’s Envivo Studio and Envivo Replay sports and live event replay solution in the U.S. and Canada, along with Central and South Americas. Envivo Replay offers a complete replay solution packaged in an intuitive user interface with continuous multiple iso-channel recording capabilities, simultaneous clip storage of multiple angles to clip bins, playlists for highlights playback, built-in branding capabilities, direct publishing to social media platforms, and support for high speed super slow-motion cameras. At InfoComm, both Envivo systems will be shown with a Dante audio interface, enabling the systems to support uncompressed, multi-channel, low latency digital audio over a standard Ethernet network. Studio and Replay also support NDI (Network Device Interface), a free protocol for Video-Over-IP, developed by NewTek.

A demo of the latest ClassX solution of 2D/3D character generation and live motion graphics and playout software integrated with FOR-A video switchers will be on the FOR-A Infocomm stand. ClassX’s graphics suite of solutions is popular with universities, digital signage, live event, and sports production applications. FOR-A is the exclusive distributor of ClassX in North, Central and South America. The agreement provides broadcasters and live event producers with the ability to create and play out ClassX real-time broadcast graphics integrated with FOR-A video switchers.

ClassX offers a complete solution with pixel-perfect, real-time 2D and 3D motion graphics and titling, SportsGraphics, SocialServer, MOS newsroom interface, clip playing automation, picture-in-picture and a multi-functional scripting facility. ClassX is 12G-compatible and supports Dante digital audio for playout.

ODYSSEY’s Insight Production Server is a multi-channel playout system, available in a two- or four-channel configuration. Offering a Web interface for control from any device with a web browser (no installation required), the video server provides a wide range of supported wrappers and codecs for media contribution and video play out with time delay playback. Insight's flexible event processor allows users to connect multiple devices and interact with FOR-A production video switchers, routing switchers, CG generators, GPIO-connected devices and other studio equipment to orchestrate event triggering for a seamless production. 

Cypress, CA, October 19, 2018 – As a demonstration of the company’s continued commitment to the Latin American region, FOR-A® will highlight three of its most popular products – the HVS-490 and HVS-100 switchers and FA-9600 signal processor - as part of its participation at CAPER 2018, occurring from October 24-26th at the Costa Salguero Center in Buenos Aires, Argentina.

FOR-A will exhibit within the CAPER stand of partner SVC (Sistemas de Video Comunicación) in Booth D-10. The theme of this year’s booth is “No Boundaries.”  

“CAPER has traditionally been an extremely important part of our marketing strategy,” said Mario Rodriguez, FOR-A Latin America Sales Manager. “It allows us to connect with key customers from nearby South American countries, such as Chile, Uruguay, Paraguay, Bolivia and Ecuador. There are many who may not be able to get to Las Vegas for NAB or Amsterdam for the IBC, and CAPER is an ideal location and time for us to meet up and show them all the new technology we have that will benefit them now and in the future.” 

The HVS-490 live HD/4K-UHD, multi-effects production switcher is designed for use in any live environment, including mobile shoots, events, and in-house corporate productions. Event memory and macro functions make it easy to set up quickly for live performances. And FOR-A’s MELite™ technology eliminates the need for multiple switchers in a multi-monitor staging scenario.  

With integrated frame synchronizers and multi viewers, the HVS-490 reduces the amount of equipment required. Using multiple control panels, the system enables several operators to work on separate tasks. Using optional input and output expansion cards, the HVS-490 supports 40 inputs/18 outputs, 36 inputs/20 outputs or 32 inputs/22 outputs, including two-channel HDMI outputs. In 4K, it allows 10 inputs/six outputs, nine inputs/six outputs or eight inputs/seven outputs. It also has 16 channels of 2.5D DVE as standard and can be optionally expanded to a maximum of 32 channels.  

The FA-9600 multi purpose signal processor supports 4K, 12G-SDI, HDR and Wide Color Gamut. The unit features dual channel frame synchronization, extensive professional video format support, color correction, up/down/cross conversion, and offers 12G-SDI and HDMI terminals - opening the door to 4K production. The FA-9600 is ideal for use in mixed HDR/SDR environments, including production studios, live staging productions and mobile OB and up-link production trucks. The energy-efficient unit is a convenient 1U size, and the signal processor’s newly developed color processing circuit provides strong support in HD/4K production.  

The HVS-100 video switcher with Thunderbolt™ 2 I/O expansion cards will also be on display at CAPER. The HVS-100 is controlled via any tablet, handheld or laptop type device with a web browser as opposed to a ‘hard’ control panel. With its Thunderbolt 2 I/O expansion cards, users can transfer video content with a single cable through computers and interface with other devices, such as character generators, virtual studios and/or file-based/IP products. One cable allows transmission of 4 HD signal lines.   

In addition to the HVS-490, FA-9600, and HVS-100 w/HVS-100TB2 Card, a range of new FOR-A equipment will also be on display: the Insight Multi-Channel Video Server, ClassX content creation and graphics playout solution, MCC-4K motion-compensated universal standards converter, and Fujitsu IP-HE950 real-time video transmission gear.  

  2018 marks the 20th year FOR-A has participated at CAPER. FOR-A enjoys long-term relationships with several prominent Latin American broadcasters, including: Artear, Canal 7, Telefe, TyC Sports, Canal 9, ESPN, DirecTV, and FoxSports. 

* Thunderbolt is a trademark of Intel Corporation or its subsidiaries in the U.S. and/or other countries.

LAS VEGAS — A the 2018 NAB Show, Panasonic debuted a new high speed 4K HDR camera, firmware update to its EVA camera line and showcased 8K Region of Interest (ROI) for sports and live events.

ACQUISITION

Panasonic debuted the AK-UC4000, a 4K high-speed studio camera that features 4.4K native resolution, HDR, and high-speed 240fps capability. The camera features native support of SMPTE 2110 MoIP output, an integrated stadium wireless system, and unique assets for sports production. They also demoed the AK-UC3000 4K camera, showcasing simultaneous 4K HDR SMPTE 2020 imaging and ITU 709 HD broadcast.

There is now free EVA 2.0 firmware upgrade for the 5.7 AU-EVA1 cinema cameras that enhances its recording capabilities with All-Intra frame formats and RAW data output. There’s also new firmware for the VariCam LT V. 6.0 CineLive that simplified setup for live and near live multicamera use for events, concerts, television shows and corporate productions. Panasonic announced that its EVA1 and Varicam LT now support the new ProRes RAW software for a faster more efficient RAW workflow.

Panasonic also highlighted the low-light performance of the VariCam 35, VariCam LT, and AU-EVA1 cinema cameras, as well as 4K HDR content from the VariCam and EVA1 cinema cameras.

PRODUCTS FOR NDI

Panasonic was at the NDI Central Pavilion, demonstrating its AV-HLC100 Live Production Center now with support for Newtek’s Network Device Interface. This system combines a 1/ME switcher, remote camera controller, graphics overlays, recording, and audio mixer to facilitate live streaming by a single operator.

In addition to seeing the HLC100 working in a real-world control room, visitors got a look at NDI-compatible products ranging from graphics to streaming to screen capture to recording. PTZ cameras now offer built-in NDI support, including the AW-HN38, AW-HN40, AW-UN70 and AW-HN130.

PARTNER SOLUTIONS

Panasonic featured new partner integrations with its P2Cast cloud-based platform’s workflow, including: two Panasonic/TVU video solutions featuring IP video switching, routing and distribution. The company also demonstrated new versions of the P2Cast Bridge, which enables connectivity into partner newsroom systems, including Adobe Premiere and Avid Media Composer for nonlinear editing, and Avid Interplay for media asset management.

Third-party solutions from Areplus, BlackTrax, and Tecnopoint, which enhance the versatility of Panasonic integrated PTZ cameras, were also showcased. A real-time BlackTrax tracking solution with Areplus interface allows a Panasonic PTZ camera to follow the speaker or content. And, a Tecnopoint Tuning System, consisting of a ceiling dolly and a vertical column, is the first track system totally integrated with Panasonic PTZ cameras.

SPECIAL ATTRACTIONS

The Panasonic exhibit also demonstrated an 8K Region of Interest (ROI) system for sports and live event HD applications, including an 8K camera’s super-wide field of view and HD windows with full pan/tilt/zoom control. It enables a single operator to follow the action from multiple virtual camera angles, saving space over multiple manned cameras.

Also demonstrated was a 360-degree/VR live streaming system that combines Panasonic’s low-latency 360-degree Live Camera with Haivision’s KB 4K encoder and LiveScale’s distribution platform to form an end-to-end, broadcast-quality solution.

CYPRESS, CALIF.—Abracadabra Presentation Graphics has looked into its crystal ball and decided to go with For-A’s new HVS-2000 portable video switcher for help producing events, corporate videos and presentations. The California-based design firm has utilized For-A switchers for the past 10 years and had its first experience with the HVS-2000 product when working with entertainment technology company FNTech.

Deploying it during a cloud computing conference held in Tokyo in October 2015, Abracadabra used the HVS-2000 to switch and feed the event’s live webcast from keynote presentations, feed video from cameras to the main presentation switcher for use on the main presentation screens, and provide video content to delay screens and overflow areas during keynote presentations.

A provider of video and audio systems for broadcast, post-production and professional video markets, For-A is based in Cypress, Calif.