Japanese broadcaster NHK is using the Streambox SBT3-9500 encoder for IP-based newsgathering from a number of locales around the world. NHK has deployed the small-form-factor hybrid HD/SD encoders, equipped with ACT-L3 software, to its field reporters and foreign bureaus along with video management and play-out systems at its Tokyo-based headquarters.
The SBT3-9500 is the newest in the company’s line of integrated HD/SD newsgathering and video transport solutions. It enables broadcasters to get more HD and SD video back to the studio over a variety of low data rate networks, including 3G, WiFi, WIMAX, the Internet, and satellite networks. It facilitates multiplexing and de-multiplexing of a single video stream over two lower-cost, lower data rate IP. The video can be inserted into scheduled broadcasts or even live-to-air shots, depending on broadcaster requirements.
The SBT3-9500 is based on the ACT-L3 codec, enabling fast transmission and play-out of high-quality HD and SD video streams over low-latency, low data rate IP networks. The solution encodes stunning full-frame 1080i/720p HD video and NTSC/PAL SD video and audio. For live HD newsgathering, Streambox users will typically select encoding rates between 512 Kbps and 6 Mbps. For live SD newsgathering, data rates ranging from 256 Kbps to 4 Mbps are the norm.
