Ross Video has completed its acquisition of Media Refinery, a Netherlands-based developer of XPression, a high end, feature rich, 2D/3D high definition character generator and motion graphics system.
“Live graphics will enhance Ross’ portfolio of live production solutions,” said David Ross, CEO of Ross Video. “The acquisition of a leading edge, live 2D/3D high definition character generation and motion graphics system adds to Ross’ strength in providing customers with complete solutions. We will be increasing our presence in European markets as a result of this acquisition. Ross now has offices and development staff based in the Netherlands.”
XPression is the high end 3D CG “for the rest of us,” Ross said, with power enough to handle demanding applications while being easy to use and automate. It offers real-time layering and animation of 3D models, 2D and 3D text, rendered animations, live video and Web content.
As a data-driven system, XPression is able to easily integrate real-time data into 3D graphics and animations which has led to its extensive use in top end game shows, news and sports productions with live connections to spreadsheets, databases, RSS feeds, newsroom editorial systems and other live data sources.
XPression software is designed to take advantage of the power of off-the-shelf GPU, CPU and I/O technology, so customers can assemble their own hardware specifically tailored to their applications or buy a bundled turn-key solution from Ross. Software options include XPression Studio (the full package), XPression Player (for on air playout), XPression Designer (for the graphics room) and XPression BlueBox (for use in master control and automated environments).
Media Refinery’s employees are now employees of Ross Video Europe and will continue to be based in Hilversum’s Media Park, The Netherlands. Ross will immediately offer XPression through its worldwide sales force and will be showcasing the product at the 2009 NAB Show.
Ross’ product line includes Vision, CrossOver and Synergy multi-definition video production switchers; openGear, RossGear and GearLite terminal equipment; SoftMetal video servers; OverDrive automated production control systems; and XPression character generators.
