NAB 2003 provides proof that recession and innovation are not mutually exclusive.

NAB 2002 drew 92,356 attendees to Las Vegas. Show attendance has not stopped declining, as only 90,000 are expected to exhibit or walk the show floor at NAB 2003.

And luckily for show attendees, smart companies keep the R&D dollars flowing even during down economic cycles. That means a steady flow of technological advances — the kind that let you work faster, smarter, and for less money. As this section clearly illustrates, despite tough market pressures and fierce competition, the manufacturers still have tons of new toys to show off. Here's a guide to the most tantalizing pre-show announcements from NAB exhibitors. Countless other product introductions will come during the actual convention, so stay tuned to Video Systems.

Canon is showing its Digi Super 100xs lens at NAB. The lens was introduced last year at IBC and quickly caught the eye of many mobile truck companies, including NEP and NMT, which both made purchases. The 100xs, also known as the XJ100×9.3B IE-D, is the world's first triple-digit zoom lens. Focal length of the 50.2lbs. lens is 9.3mm to 930mm (18.6mm to 1860mm using the 2X extender), and speed is F/1.7. This lens works with standard-definition cameras, meaning broadcasters and studios can buy the lens in advance of a shift to HD production.

The company is also introducing a robotic pan-tilt camera with weatherproof housing that's based on the XL1. The three-chip NU-700N (about $12,000) is not meant as a surveillance camera, but perhaps for installation in a large lecture hall, says Ken Ito, assistant director of Canon's broadcast and communications division.

Lake Success, N.Y.; (800) OK-CANON; www.usa.canon.com

Baytech Video unveils its first product, CineRAM Pack, a digital cinematography recorder that lets filmmakers capture uncompressed high-resolution HD video data directly from the camera, then transfer this data to a computer for postproduction and editing. Essentially, the recorder bypasses any in-camera video compression. Baytech's CineRAM Pack is a compact, battery-powered unit. The device can be mounted on the back of all high-end HD cameras used for digital cinematography. Dual-stream or single-stream HD SDI video from the camera is connected to the CineRAM Pack. The CineRAM Pack records the full digital HD SDI signal into a DRAM buffer inside the device. This data is formatted as industry-standard DPX files. Once recorded, the clip file can be downloaded to a computer via a USB 2.0 connection. The clip can also be played directly out of the CineRAM Pack's HD SDI output. CineRAM Pack will be available this summer from Baytech Video and its authorized dealers for less than $20,000.

San Francisco; www.baytechvideo.com

Designed for assistant camera, grip, and sound department people, the Production Bag from CineBags promises to keep things organized on set or out in the field. The 27"×15"×12" bag has a total of 23 compartments and four Velcro-adjustable pockets, two carry handles, and reflective stripes for safety. The Production Bag ($180) comes in gray, black, and orange.

Los Angeles; (323) 660-6632; www.cinebags.com

Fast Forward Video will offer a new version of its Recon ultra-compact DVR board. Improved features will allow users to view, store, and manipulate Recon-generated video on standard computer systems by retrieving data directly from the hard drive. For example, the new view and store functions allow video clips recorded by the Recon to be viewed on a PC and archived locally or on a networked server. The DVR board can be used for remote, mobile, on-body broadcast and surveillance applications, as well as compact integration with OEM equipment. Measuring 2.8"×3.9", the Recon uses motion JPEG compression to facilitate video capture and playback at 60fps. It provides resolution greater than 550 lines at 4:1 compression. Compression ratios range from 4:1 to 20:1.

Irvine, Calif.; (949) 852-1226; www.ffv.com

The Model PD6 from Fostex is a six-channel DVD-RAM audio field recorder. The company points to the portable unit's ability to record directly to stable, removable DVD-RAM media as its most appealing characteristic. Additional features include six dedicated audio inputs (each with gain filtering and limiters via an onboard hard surface mixer), supported sample rates from 44.1kHz to 96kHz, video and word clock sources, an onboard multiple-headphone matrix for selective monitoring, and a data wheel for manipulating software parameters. The “circle take” feature allows a director to shoot multiple takes of a given scene and then choose one for printing. Using circle take, the editor can identify the designated take easily. Connections include XLR inputs, TC in and out, FireWire and USB ports, DC out for powering wireless receivers, digital I/O remote on a sub D25 port, and an A-time port. List price for the PD6 is $9,995.

Norwalk, Calif.; (562) 921-1112 www.fostex.com

Fujinon plans to bring several new lenses to NAB this year. The company says the HA13×4.5B Cine Style wide-angle zoom lens is the widest-angle cine-style zoom lens on the market, with a 93.6-degree horizontal field of view and a 4.5mm focal length at its widest end. Focus rotation is up to 280 degrees, and the lens commits little focus “breathing” — the tendency of zoom lenses to drift in and out of sharp focus. The HA22×7.8BERM/BERD, a telephoto lens with a 2X extender, features improved weight (reduced to 1.78kg), f/stop (F1.8), and minimum object distance (reduced to 0.8m). Fujinon's HA26×6.7ESM HD studio lens has a focus length range of 6.7mm to 175mm (which can be doubled by a 2X entender).

Wayne, N.J.; (973) 633-5600 www.fujinon.com

Link Research LinkXP system

Link Research recently sold two LinkXP wireless camera systems to Presteigne Broadcast Hire in Surrey, England. The LinkXP system will be used for live news and sports applications because it allows camera operators to move around freely in environments without line-of-sight considerations, while delivering digital 4:2:2 TV footage. At the show, Link Research will introduce the second-generation LinkXP2. The company has reduced the end-to-end signal delay between the camera and the studio to 40 milliseconds, approximately equal to one frame.

Hertfordshire, England; +44 (0) 1923 244 233 www.linkres.co.uk

Manfrotto's MDeVe tripods, released last year, are said to give video the portability, compactness, positioning flexibility, and ease of use that still photography has always enjoyed. A built-in, anodized-red leveling ball and bubble spirit level tops the column of these aluminum and carbon-fiber video tripods. The 50mm ball is attached not to the tripod top spider, but to the top of the center column, and this allows you to level the top plate (and thus the head and camera) and adjust height without making the tripod legs budge. The 754 is a three-section carbon-fiber tripod that stands almost 5ft. at max height. The aluminum 755B has a maximum height of 64in. and supports up to 13lbs. The compact 756B is an aluminum tripod that weighs only 4.85lbs. but supports up to 11lbs. Bogen Photo distributes Manfrotto tripods in the United States.

Ramsey, N.J.; (201) 818-9500; www.bogenphoto.com

This year in Las Vegas, Maxell introduces a new line of video-cassettes developed for MiniDV and DV systems within professional environments. Appropriately named Professional DV (DV-PRO), the tapes integrate Maxell's Multipuretron vapor-deposited film to enhance picture quality and durability in demanding applications like high-speed playback, editing, and rewinding. Maxell says the vapor-deposited film gives the cassettes higher output and improved error rates over other DV tape. MiniDV DV-PRO cassettes hold 63 minutes of footage and the standard-size DV-186PRO offers 186 minutes of recording time.

Maxell is also debuting a DVD-R Plus series of recordable discs. Compatibility fears are one of the most persistent barriers against the widespread acceptance of DVD-R as a delivery medium, so Maxell uses proprietary organic dye recording-layer materials to improve the discs' compatibility and ensure noise-free playback. The 4X discs are a perfect match for the latest generation of DVD burners that write at 4X.

Fair Lawn, N.J.; (201) 794-5900; www.maxell.com

Panasonic recently introduced the AG-DVC7, an entry-level shoulder-mount MiniDV format camcorder in the DV Proline series. The new AG-DVC7 DV Proline camcorder is equipped with a next-generation IT CCD imager with 340,000 effective pixels and a large-diameter 15X optical zoom. Minimum illumination is 1 lux. The AG-DVC7 ($1,495) comes standard with an IEEE 1394 digital interface terminal for transferring footage into NLEs. The 1394 interface also facilitates the direct dubbing of digital video to Panasonic's AG-DV2000 VTR (DV format) or AJ-D455 VTR (DVCPRO format) — not to mention the new DMR-T3040 DVD recorder. With lens and battery, the camcorder weighs 4.62lbs. and offers manual focus, manual iris, automatic white balance, program auto exposure (five modes), and Gain Up (0 to 18 dB). The unit's new Picture Effect Function includes Wipe, Mix, Strobe, Gain Up, Trail, Mosaic, and Mirror. In addition, its Cinema mode enables widescreen format recording (16:9 letterbox). The DVC7 records up to 83 minutes of component digital video (500 TV lines of resolution) with 16-bit PCM digital audio on a MiniDV cassette. The camcorder operates at only 3.8W (with LCD monitor on), and offers digital Electric Image Stabilization (EIS) to compensate for jitter or vibration-induced distortions. The unit offers a built-in 2.5in. rotating color LCD monitor or .5in. color viewfinder. (See Steve Mullen's pre-NAB coverage, p. 86, for more on Panasonic at NAB.)

Los Angeles; (323) 436-3500; www.panasonic.com/broadcast

Coming off the heels of a very notable NAB 2002 that saw the introduction of the Viper FilmStream camera, Thomson isn't slowing down its camcorder development. The new LDK 200 ITW, however, comes in at a different end of the spectrum. Configurable for studio, news, and dramatic production, the SD camcorder features new-generation ITW CCDs, 12-bit A-to-D conversion, 22-bit digital signal processing, and a high sensitivity of F11 @ 2000lux. The company also debuts a new NTSC version of the previously PAL-only digital wireless system that showed at IBC last year.

The Grass Valley division of Thomson introduced the massive Trinix video routing switcher last year, and this year the company debuts an audio complement. The Apex audio routing switcher features Time Division Multiplex (TDM) architecture and sits in an 11 RU, 256×256 chassis. The system supports linear expansion up to 1280×1280. Redundant TDM matrix cards prevent full system failure.

Grass Valley also announces a new networked attached storage solution based on its Cohera storage architecture. Part of the digital news production product group, the NAS shares many elements with existing GV SAN solutions, such as drives, database software, and NewsSuite editing applications.

There's also a new 1 M/E digital switcher called the Kayak ($30,650), which is a mere 2 RU high and supports both NTSC and PAL. The Kayak system offers four keyers, complete machine control, and a networking capability that allows several switchers to be combined and controlled via a single panel.

Beaverton, Ore.; (503) 526-4100; www.thomsongrassvalley.com

At NAB, Anton/Bauer will be showing improved HyTron and Dionic batteries, an expanded Titan charger lineup, updated PowerCharger features, and power solutions to complement the latest MiniDV cameras. No further details are available at press time. The Dionic battery (pictured right) debuted last fall as the first battery to feature what Anton/Bauer describes as realtime display — it shows both the remaining running time (in hours and minutes) and the fuel gauge (percentage of power left) simultaneously. That's not the only advance, either: Dionic ($595) is the size of the company's HyTron 50, but it's 20% lighter and packs 60% more juice, claims the company. The lithium ion battery runs a typical 25W camcorder for over three hours and attaches to a standard Gold Mount. Anton/Bauer announces for NAB that all of its digital batteries now feature the realtime display.

Shelton, Conn.; (203) 929-1100; www.antonbauer.com

Aspen Electronics is focusing on its battery and charger lines for NAB 2003. Not a bad strategy, as the company claims it has the highest-performance selection of NP and V-mount format batteries and chargers. Introductions at the show include the new Aspekt AllChem chargers and Nexus battery system to complement its existing line. Those existing products include its V-Mount NHP-65 and NHP-100 batteries, and the Phantom PH-14 hot-swap accessory. Introduced last year, the Phantom provides true uninterrupted power to a camera while the main camera battery is being replaced. It's an electronic control module packaged with an internal reserve battery. Mounting directly to a standard battery mount, either Sony or Three-Stud, the product automatically senses and switches battery power from the main battery pack to its own internal backup reserve battery, which packs 25W/hours of internal capacity. Huntington Beach, Calif.;

(714) 379-2515; www.aspenelectronics.com

Angénieux introduces a host of new lenses for NAB 2003. The Optimo 24-290 has a focal range of 24-290mm and an aperture of T2.8. Incorporating proprietary high-resolution glass, the Optimo 12×9.7HD has a fast aperture speed of F1/4. For the telephoto zoom lens category, the company offers its 26X HR series for field production applications. The lens provides a focal range of 7.8mm to 203mm, which can be doubled by its 2X extender. Iris priority minimizes ramping, and an anti-breathing mode maintains a constant field of view when focusing. The 70X HD lens is part of a new line of six studio and sports lenses. The 70X lens features a focal range of 9.5mm to 665mm (can be doubled by a 2X extender) and Advanced Display System, which allows users to easily monitor lens settings and adjust several digital functions.

Totowa, N.J.; (973) 812-4326 www.angenieux.com

At NAB Miller is showing several recently introduced products. The VJ20 fluid head offers improved stability and motion for shooters using Canon XL1, Panasonic DVC-15, Sony DSR-250/370 camcorders. The head offers 100mm ball-leveling with bubble-level adjustment. The Sprinter series of ENG tripods are designed for a speedy setup. Sprinters are available in carbon fiber or alloy tubing, in two-stage or single-stage, and weights ranging from 2.5kg to 3.5kg, with a 45kg carrying capacity. Miller's patent-pending Sprint-Loks are dual, side-action leg clamps that let you adjust both stages of a two-stage tripod with one hand. Arrow and Arrow HD fluid heads offers an increase of 30% pan and tilt drag range for both heavier and lighter pan and tilt control. Miller's DS60 fluid head supports both mid-sized sports/EFP cameras and film cameras. It's designed around the company's fluid drag clutch system, which offers four selectable stages of pan and tilt resistance.

Cedar Grove, N.J.; (973) 857-8300 www.millertripods.com

IDX Technologies will be displaying two batteries that were introduced last year — the E-80 and E-80S, both 5.7A lithium ion camera batteries. Both supply 82W/hours and 184 minutes of run time. The E-80 (1.62lbs.) lists at $495 and the E-80S (1.54lbs.) comes in at $395. But for that extra $100, the E-80 offers three key features not found on the E-80S. A realtime microprocessor drives the five-LED power-status display, providing an accurate load percentage of the battery. IDX's PowerLink allows the docking of two batteries to double capacity (164W/hours). Digi-View is displays data capacity in the viewfinder.

This NAB, the company also plans to show battery management software that provides additional information on E-80 batteries. Each E-80 stores complete battery information including charge cycles, operating temperatures, and high loads (in non-volatile form). IDX plans to make the management system work with its E-50 batteries soon.

Torrance, Calif.; (310) 891-2800; www.idx.tv

Kino Flo made a huge splash last NAB with its ParaBeam fluorescent lights, perfect for shooters looking for a lower-cost alternative to expensive HMI units. A deceptively simple-looking four-tube instrument, the ParaBeam utilizes a custom-molded parabolic mirror array to achieve an extremely bright beacon of balanced light. It comes in two sizes: the ParaBeam 400 (four 55W lamps/$1,500), and the ParaBeam 200 (two 55W lamps/$1,150).

This year Kino Flo brings its new Lamp Tester to NAB. The hand-held 9V device checks for damaged fluorescent tubes, obviating the need to test each lamp in a fixture. A tube needs gas and electrical continuity — at both cathodes — to operate. A lack of either will cause the lamp to fail, and the Lamp Tester finds such problems.

Sun Valley, Calif.; (818) 767-6528; www.kinoflo.com

Zeiss (via Band Pro) Sharp Max Universal and Zeiss DigiPrimes

Last year legendary lens manufacturer Carl Zeiss introduced six DigiPrime lenses, its first set for HD camcorders. This year U.S. Distributor Band Pro announces the Zeiss Sharp Max Universal, a back-focus adjustment tool that works with all standard-definition and high-definition B4-mount lenses. The Sharp Max eliminates the need to light a chart or move the camera, and precise back-focus adjustment takes only seconds. The Sharp Max is placed at the front of the shooting lens, and then the lens focus scale is set to the mechanical infinity limit. The back-focus ring is adjusted to achieve best visual resolution of the Siemens star pattern in the camera viewfinder or on the monitor. Finally, the back-focus ring is locked. The 2.2kg unit comes with 80mm, 85mm, 86mm, 95mm, 100mm, 110mm, 117mm, 120mm, and 130mm interface rings. Power is via an external 12V DC power source, or via a standard 9V battery that allows four hours of continuous operation.

Burbank, Calif.; (818) 841-9655; www.bandpro.com

At NAB 2003 Sachtler is featuring its CamCrane EFP, designed for electronic field production applications. Four towers and four outriggers stabilize the CamCrane EFP, which is designed for cameras weighing up to 39.7lbs. With a telescopic main pipe, the product can be set up at a variety of lengths, and it's adjustable in both the horizontal plane and the top and bottom views. Scaling on the spindle enables the cameras to be moved or repositioned at the same angle.

Freeport, N.Y.; (516) 867-4900; www.sachtler.com

A couple of new mics from Sennheiser make their NAB debut. The MKH418S microphone features M-S stereo, which allows adjustable stereo imaging via an independent dual-capsule system. With rugged brass housing, the MKH418S maintains consistent performance over temperature extremes. The microphone makes recordings future-proof by documenting directional information for use in future stereo mixes. The MKE Platinum, a sub-miniature lavalier mic, features an embossed “umbrella” diaphragm that protects it against moisture and sweat. Sennheiser claims the microphone features improved rejection of handling noise. The MKE Platinum has a ultra-thin (1mm) cable with a Kevlar-wrapped copper core.

Old Lyme, Conn.; (860) 434-1759; www.sennheiserusa.com

16×9 Inc. distributes camera accessories from a slew of different manufacturers. New for NAB is an Intervalometer, created by Sim Video of Canada, for the Sony HDW-F900 CineAlta camcorder. Relying on the camera's still capture function, it allows time-lapse recording in intervals that can be set from 4 seconds (the minimum allowed by the F900) up to 18 hours. Control of the camera comes via the Intervalometer's 12-pin cable that attaches to the lens's servo zoom interface connector (found on HD ENG-style lenses with built-in servo zooms). The 1.3lb. unit features an LCD backlit display for low-light environments, and panel buttons trigger start/stop frame recording and interval plus or minus.

Burbank, Calif.; (818) 972-2839; www.16×9inc.com

Released last fall, Azden's FMX-2 field mixer ($350) will figure prominently in the company's NAB booth. The portable two-channel field mixer is small enough — at 3.75"×1.625"×5" — to attach to a camcorder with provided Velcro or to a belt with a supplied belt clip. The mixer has XLR inputs and outputs as well as a stereo mini-jack output. Configurable output means that one microphone can be mixed to both outputs or either individual output, and two microphones can be mixed to either individual output or mixed together to both outputs. The all-metal unit runs on a single 9V battery and features twin peak level input indicators and a monitor output (stereo or mono) with level control.

Franklin Square, N.Y.; (516) 328-7500; www.azdencorp.com

Perhaps Ikegami's most prominent introduction at this year's show is the HDK-79EX compact HD camera. How compact? Weighing just 12lbs., the camera features an integral fiber adapter makes it easily compatible with any of Ikegami's fiber base stations. Improved studio support for the HDK-79EX comes via the new SE-79EX system expander. This uses only integral connectors — that means no cables between any of the pieces — which results in a sturdier design. Also on display will be the production version of the HDL-20, a POV camera with two 2/3in., 2.2 megapixel CCDs. Native horizontal resolution is 1,000 TV lines. Ikegami's DVCAM line also gets a new member: the HL-DV7AW, the successor to the popular HL-DV7W. New features include external video input and the Ikegami AIT CCD for improved smear characteristics. Finally, the hard disk-based Editcam II cameras are now joined by the DNE-31 standalone recorder.

Maywood, N.J.; (201) 368-9171; www.ikegami.com

Profound Effects is now shipping Useful Things 1.2, which allows users to create script-based effects for After Effects. Improved features include an easy-to-use keyword search function to locate effects. Among the new effects are video tools that render in an After Effects layer. For example, a Vectorscope that tracks a specific AE layer can be inserted into an on-set monitor using After Effects compositing and perspective functions. Other new effects include self-animating lines and various transitional effects. Useful Things is available for both Windows and Mac, and costs $395. Previous buyers of Useful Things can upgrade at no charge.

Profound Effects has also announced that its Transfer plug-in for Avid AVX is recognized by the new version of Automatic Composition Import from Automatic Duck. When importing an Avid timeline into After Effects, the new Automatic Composition Import recognizes blend modes made with Transfer and configures the corresponding blend mode in After Effects. Transfer is priced at $49.95. Both plug-ins are available via Profound Effects' online store.

Verona, Wis.; (608) 829-0085; www.profoundeffects.com

This year at NAB, Canopus will be showing its new NLE software, Edius, and a new portable turnkey editing workstation, the CWS-30.

The Edius NLE is designed for use with Canopus' DVRex RT Professional and DVStorm2. Edius offers multi-track editing; transition support; voice-over recording; three- and four-point editing; realtime output; and bin (clip) management.

Canopus' CWS-30 is a portable editing workstation designed for remote production. With three streams of realtime DV output and the Rextor NLE, the CWS-30 is a complete NLE for remote broadcasting, newsgathering, and on-location production. Both Edius and the CWS-30 will be demonstrated at Canopus' NAB booth.

Canopus also recently announced the ADVC-500 video converter. This converter provides analog-to-DV and DV-to-analog conversion, and features component video, composite, S-Video, and balanced and unbalanced audio input/output. Priced at $1,499, the ADVC-500 uses the Canopus DV codec and supports Windows and Mac.

San Jose, Calif.; (408) 954-4500; www.canopus.com

MOTU MachFive

MOTU plans to display its MachFive universal sampler plug-in for Mac and Windows. MachFive supports all major plug-in formats on both platforms and imports all major audio file, sample, and soundbank formats. It also offers support for sample rates up to 192kHz (24-bit) and can import and play back multi-channel samples in surround. MachFive is compatible with all sample libraries and offers easy drag-and-drop sample importing. Other features include a powerful synthesis engine and built-in multichannel waveform editor. MachFive is expected to ship in Q1 of 2003 with a price of $395. The release will be for all plug-in formats on Mac OS 9 and OS X, with a Windows version soon to follow.

Cambridge, Mass.; (617) 576-2760; www.motu.com

Matrox recently announced that Sonic Solutions' ReelDVD LE DVD authoring application will be packaged with its RT.X100 Professional DVD Bundle. Available at a reduced price until March 31, the bundle includes the Matrox RT.X100 capture card, Sonic ReelDVD LE DVD authoring software, and Adobe Premiere 6.5 for $1,299. The package is available without Premiere for $1,099.

Dorval, Quebec; (514) 685-7230; www.matrox.com.

Avid has unveiled Symphony for the Mac — and new Mac OS X versions of Media Composer, Film Composer, and Xpress DV.

Symphony version 4.7 for Mac offers realtime 10-bit DVE and Ultimatte keying and color correction processing on Mac OS X. Realtime color correction is new in both Mac OS X and Windows versions of Symphony, Media Composer, and Xpress DV. Also new is 23.976fps support for all Media Composer systems.

A 20% discount on the final price of Avid Symphony 4.7 is available through March 28 as an introductory offer. Media Composer XL 11.7 ($12,000), Film Composer XL 11.7 ($53,000), and Avid Xpress DV 5.7 ($5,999) are expected to be available this quarter.

Tewksbury, Mass.; (978) 640-3202; www.avid.com

Big news for Boris FX in advance of NAB was the February introduction of Continuum Complete 2.0, a package of 110 filters for After Effects 5.5, Final Cut Pro 3, Discreet Combustion 2.1, and Boris Red. All filters in 2.0 ($595) support processing in 16-bit color space. A new Optical Flow filter creates speed and/or frame-rate changes by estimating the motion between two frames of video and rendering an intermediate frame that interpolates the motion. The synthesized frame contains a mixture of the previous and next frames, each distorted by an amount determined by the time-warp estimation. New effects filters include Film Grain, Film Damage, Emboss, Multi Shadow, and Light Zoom, which creates rays of lights that spread from a source, interacting with the luminosity of the pixels they cross. There are also new text generators and an electronic help system, which calls up the appropriate section in the user guide via a Help button in each filter's banner.

Boston; (617) 451-9900; www.borisfx.com

Several major broadcasters have used Digital Juice's Jump Backs, its library of royalty-free animated backgrounds. There are certainly a lot to choose from, with 800 30- to 60-second animations spread across 20 volumes ($249 per volume). The big news for NAB is the March release of Motion Backs. These are shorter counterparts to Jump Backs at about 8 seconds each, but they can be looped just as easily as Jump Backs. Motion Back volumes each contain 20 animations (compared to 40 in each Jump Back volume), and cost only $99 per volume. Digital Juice also offers Editor's Toolkit ($599 introductory price for nine DVDs), which contains animated lower thirds, matching animated sets, animated overlays, and thousands of photos, textures, backgrounds, mattes, and more.

Ocala, Fla.; (800) 525-2203; www.digitaljuice.com

Sonic Foundry is now shipping version 4.0 of its Vegas editing software and Vegas+DVD authoring software. Vegas 4.0 is a realtime NLE for Windows that allows users to create composites; keyframe track motion; pan/crop; and apply transitions, filters, and credit rolls. It offers realtime previewing and effects without rendering. Among Vegas' updated features are better color-correction tools, searchable media bins, 5.1 surround mixing, application scripting, and improved ripple editing. Vegas+DVD includes Vegas 4.0, and performs DVD authoring with a Dolby-certified multi-channel AC-3 encoder. Vegas 4.0 is available at the Sonic Foundry website for $489, or in a boxed version for $559. Vegas+DVD can be downloaded for $699, or purchase the box for $799. For more information or to download a beta version of Vegas 4.0, go to Sonic Foundry's website.

Madison, Wis.; (608) 256-3133; www.sonicfoundry.com

Media 100 has several big announcements for this year's show. Probably the most notable is the planned debut of 844/X 2.0, which it calls the “finishing release.” Version 2.0 expands 844/X with new toolsets for color correction, unlimited layer compositing, new matte and rotoscoping tools, and enhanced audio-for-video support. The new release of 844/X starts at $24,995 for Media 100 software and hardware. It will be introduced at Media 100's NAB booth, and shipping is set to begin in May.

In other 844/X news, Media 100 will demonstrate HDX, its new HD format-conversion technology for 844/X. Systems with HDX support will be able to input from and output to all HD and SD digital television formats defined by SMPTE 292M and SMPTE 259M, including 720p, 1080p, 480i, 1035i, 1080i, and 1080i/50Hz. HDX consists of new software and a PCI card that add the 10-bit format-conversion abilities. Media 100 plans to demonstrate HDX as a technology demonstration at NAB, and deliver it as an add-on for 844/Xi and 844/Xe in the second half of 2003. It will be priced under $15,000.

Yet another improvement for 844/X is the addition of realtime Gaussian blurs with XBLUR. This separately priced option for 844/Xi and 844/Xe uses realtime software and a BFX PCI card to add Gaussian blurs to the list of realtime effects powered by the GenesisEngine media processor. XBLUR allows users to design Gaussian blurs on up to four 10-bit uncompressed video streams at once. The XBLUR option is priced at $7,995 for 844/Xi, and $9,995 for 844/Xe. XBLUR will be shown at NAB, with shipping to start in June.

Marlboro, Mass.; (508) 460-1600; www.media100.com

It's difficult to keep up with the continual updates to Video Toaster 2, but NewTek hasn't made it easy to follow other programs, either. Aura Video Paint is now in a 2.5b version; the recent release is mainly a connectivity update. New features include integration with NewTek LightWave, support for the DPS Virtual Tape File System, new codecs and filters, and a two-point Motion Stabilization plug-in. Integration with LightWave comes via a plug-in that lets users view unwrap mesh maps from objects loaded into LW's Modeler or Layout, and use them as references for painting textures. Aura users can now rasterize an EPS file from LightWave, as well. The plug-in also allows Aura to stay in contact with the LightWave “Hub.” Aura Video Paint 2.5b is available for $895; 2.5 and 2.0 users upgrade for free.

San Antonio; (210) 370-8000; www.newtek.com

Sonic Desktop is famous for its SmartSound technology, which analyzes the musical structure of audio tracks to fit them logically and seamlessly onto video clips of any length. New CDs with royalty-free “smart” tracks are released often; recent additions to the SmartSound library include Thematic Essentials Vol. 39 and The Edge Series Vol. 5: Drums/Rhythms/Pulse. Sonicfire Pro is the company's flagship soundtrack-creation application. Video import options for the software include DV, AVI, MPEG, and QuickTime.

Northridge, Calif.; (818) 718-9999; www.smartsound.com

Filling the gap between flat panels for the desktop and those for large presentation venues, NEC-Mitsubishi offers the LCD3000. The 30in. LCD screen ($4,299) features 1280×768 resolution and brightness of 450cd/m². Rapid Response technology eliminates ghosting, and XtraView provides wide horizontal and vertical viewing angles, which allow viewers to clearly see images even when they're not standing directly in front of the display. The 35lb. screen features inputs for a DVI-D connector for digital video signal adapters, BNC VGA, composite, component, and S-Video connectors.

Itasca, Ill.; (888) NEC-MITS; www.necmitsubishi.com

Miranda Technologies Master Control Glass Cockpit

At NAB, Miranda Technologies will be showing what it calls a cost-efficient and flexible new master control system, the Master Control Glass Cockpit. The compact station handles both SD and HD signals and is based on the company's Kaleido-K2, Presmaster 2, and iControl Web. The Kaleido K-2 high-resolution “virtual” monitor wall processor allows for monitoring of multiple video and audio signals, while the Presmaster 2 multichannel master control switcher lets one or more operators intervene manually in up to 200 automated channels. The iControl Web remote management system provides graphical representation of signal processing, with integrated streaming encoders to provide easy monitoring and fault diagnosis. Miranda will also be debuting its enhanced Allegro streaming encoder server at NAB.

Montreal; (514) 333-1772; www.miranda.com

To protect projectors from both theft and damage, Chief Manufacturing offers a solution. The PG-1 Projector Guard is a steel cage that slides over LCD/DLP projectors, fully covering them while also providing proper ventilation. The cage locks with security screws and optional padlocks. The PG-1 ($395) can be installed on a pre-existing installation as long as it uses a 1.5in. NPT extension column. The adjustable front opening allows for different lens positions, and it accommodates the projector's roll, pitch, and yaw adjustments.

Savage, Minn.; (800) 582-6480; www.chiefmfg.com

Display professionals have long known Hardigg for its plasma screen cases. Recently the company has decided to think smaller, last year introducing new Storm Cases designed to house and protect portable projectors. The injection-molded cases ($93-$304) are constructed from the company's new HPX resin and are guaranteed for life. Available in 10 sizes ranging from 13"×9"×6" to 29"×18"×10.5", Storm Cases feature “Press & Pull” proprietary latches that solve the problem of bruised knuckles, commonly inflicted by compression-type latches. A Vortex automatic pressure-release valve adjusts internal pressure to match changing environments. Hardigg offers 350 standard sizes of protective cases in all.

South Deerfield, Mass.; (800) 542-7344; www.stormcase.com

Folsom is well-known for its ScreenPro and ScreenPro Plus seamless switching systems. Late last year it started shipping a wide-screen image processor that's compatible with those systems. BlendPRO is designed for live-staging and presentation applications that require edge-feathered images. BlendPRO accepts high-resolution video from up to four sources and processes the input to generate overlapped and edge-feathered images suitable for driving up to four projectors. The result is a seamless wide-screen output image. Characteristics of the blending transfer function and the size of the blend regions are user-programmable. Multiple BlendPRO units can be connected to expand the possibilities past just four screens. This product obviates the need to pre-condition source material during the content-creation phase to support data overlap in projection.

Rancho Cordova, Calif.; (916) 859-2500; www.folsom.com

At NAB the company will showcase the line of workstations it introduced in November. The entry-level xw4000 and mid-range xw5000 are based around single Pentium 4 processors with speeds of 2.4, 2.66, or 2.8GHz. Both deliver OpenGL graphics; the xw5000 includes Intel's latest E7205 chipset to offer dual-channel DDR memory. Stepping up the workstation ladder, the xw6000 and xw8000 use dual Xeon processors at the same frequencies listed above. The xw6000 is designed for 3D modeling, while the xw8000 is slotted for rendering. Prices start at $827 for the xw4000.

Stamford, Conn.; (972) 487-3058; www.hp.com

New at NAB for Comprehensive Video Group is the CVC-MC25HR, a new high-resolution analog and SDI miniature coax cable. The low-profile 75ohm cable is designed for high-end video and SDI applications. Its small outer diameter makes the cable well-suited for rack and console wiring. The UL-approved CVC-MC25HR is available in 500ft. or 1000ft. spools, and sequential foot markings make termination easy.

South Hackensack, N.J.; (201) 229-9800; www.comprehensivevideo.com

Recently Rorke Data debuted what it's calling the first SAN management software designed specifically for OS X. ImageSAN OSX targets small to medium workgroups editing digital video and creating effects. Vice president of marketing Joe Rorke says that competing products require extraneous metadata servers, but ImageSAN ($1,500 per license) avoids these servers and their added costs. The software was released in Windows versions last summer.

Eden Prairie, Minn.; (952) 829-0300 www.rorke.com

BBC Technology has wasted no time in establishing a North American beachhead since being spun off from its parent company, the BBC — now its number-one customer. The company provides asset management solutions for broadcast environments. In advance of NAB it introduced solutions that address three stages of “media lifecycle management.” The focus is on cost savings via staff re-assignment and easier re-use of existing media. Broadcast News and Sports automates the production and playout process for newsrooms, sports production, and other “realtime” environments. It ensures access to media, within a few frames of ingest, for all clients enterprise-wide. Collaborative Production is a workgroup solution that supports ingest, playout, and transcoding at production quality with collaborative support. Broadcast Network Control runs on standard PC hardware and operating systems, and is designed to control both modern and legacy equipment from one uniform interface.

San Francisco; (415) 433-0246; www.bbctechnology.com

MediaSonic is the “media networking” division of A/V integrator Electrosonic. Its HD video playback products have found many a home in museums, retail applications, and theme parks. The recently announced MS9100D HD player ($4,300) is a desktop version of the MS9100P player, designed for applications in locations that are nowhere near an equipment rack. A standard Windows Media Player controls the application. Users click on an HD MPEG file and the MediaSonic player sends the images to plasma screens, LCDs, or projectors. The company also shows its FrEND series of small hardware devices that allows users to control their equipment from within a facility or across a WAN. A FrEND can be part of an A/V control network or function as a simple, standalone controller. With a built-in timecode reader and generator, FrEND devices can be driven by MediaSonic's ESCAN control software or from any control PC on a network via standard Ethernet connections. The product offers both a remote-control function and time-of-day scheduling capabilities.

Burbank, Calif.; (818) 566-3045 www.mediasonic.com

Two recent products from Sigma Electronics are almost mirror images of each other. The DAC-2100 ($1,295) is a 10-bit, 4:2:2 digital-to-analog converter that converts serial digital to analog composite, Y/C, and component video. The ADC-2100 (also $1,295) is a 10-bit analog-to-digital converter that takes in analog composite, Y/C, and component video, and outputs serial digital with EDH. Like the DAC-2100, it's designed to fit Sigma 2100 series frames.

East Petersburg, Penn.; (717) 569-2681; www.sigmaelectronics.com

The test and measurement company introduces a new video and audio monitoring system for TV and professional video. The Tektronix WVR600 series rasterizer (starting at $5,995) features high-resolution output (1024×786) to external displays. Tektronix says the product answers industry demand for an instrument that monitors both analog and digital video signals in a simple-to-use, all-digital architecture. The WVR600 incorporates two SD SDI inputs and two composite inputs — as well as options for analog audio, digital AES/EBU audio (including embedded), or both. It also incorporates Tektronix's new FlexVu multi-screen viewing feature, enabling users to view four waveforms simultaneously. The company also introduces a new audio option and software upgrades for its WFM700 series of multi-format waveform monitors.

Beaverton, Ore.; (800) 426-2200; www.tektronix.com

Broadcast graphics company Pixel Power showcases new enhanced I/O for its Clarity2 dual-channel SD character generator. It now has audio clip capabilities. The CG now includes eight audio channels, full support for embedded and AES/EBU audio, relay bypass for the dual downstream keyers on video and key, and dual SDI preview outputs with keys. The Clarity2 hardware platform relies on dual AMD Athlon MP processors and multiple pixel processors. Clarity2 software got a major upgrade, as well. Now in version 5, the software release includes dual video squeezeback, continuous tickers, and Visual Basic scripting. Also, Pixel Power is showing for the first time in North America the dual-channel option for its Collage2 and Graphite2 proprietary-hardware character generators.

Boca Raton, Fla.; (561) 395-4065; www.pixelpower.com

Medéa will demonstrate a trio of products designed for digital content creation. VideoRaid RT3 is a five-drive desktop disk array that features an Ultra320 SCSI interface, which sustains transfer rates at more than 140MBps. The new VideoRaid FCR2 and FCRX2 are a family of 2Gbps Fibre Channel disk arrays. Designed for desktop and rackmount setups, the FCR2 and FCRX2 provide uninterrupted video playback in the event of disk drive failure, and sustained data transfer rate exceeds 250MBps. Designed for SAN environments, the family features built-in four- or eight-port FC hubs, removable disk drives, power supplies, and RAID controllers. Load-sharing power supplies and RAID controllers are both redundant. StreamRaid is a family of server-class storage. Up to 12TB of storage fits into a 4 RU rack. An ultra-high-bandwidth FC interface has a built-in eight-port switch. Medéa claims StreamRaid provides storage at a fraction of the cost of other 24/7 Fibre Channel systems.

Calabasas, Calif.; (888) BY-MEDEA; www.medea.com

Two new products that Extron will be showing are the VSC 500 and VSC 700 video scan converters, which feature a new proprietary scan-converting technology that the company claims ensures sharper images. Both models convert computer images from up to 1600×1200 down to video rates and output to composite, component, S-Video, and RGB video. Possible applications include videoconferencing, video recording, and viewing images on NTSC monitors or other displays. Also, the VSC 700's ability to genlock to an external black burst signal makes it suitable for broadcast environments. The 1 RU models feature centering and sizing controls, zoom control up to 200%, horizontal and vertical filtering to boost image clarity, an LCD window for menu navigation, 16 auto-memory presets, and an internal color bar generator.

Anaheim, Calif.; (714) 491-1500; www.extron.com

Chyron is launching a wide variety of new products at the show. Solo is a broadcast-quality graphics and CG system that runs on a laptop. The system supports realtime animation and optional dual-channel squeezeback capabilities. An included PCMCIA-connected video card includes SDI video and key, as well as bypass mode. The PCI Squeeze is a PCI graphics and dual-channel squeezeback board. MicroScribe (under $10,000) delivers Chyron graphics as an integrated Digital pcCODI in a 1 RU Pentium 4 chassis. The single-channel system uses Lyric software to create and play back 2D and 3D graphics and animation. Thinking bigger, Camio offers centralized on-air graphics solutions featuring “hub and spoke” content creation, storage, transport, and playout. Camio solutions are web-enabled, MOS-compliant, and based on open standards. Aprisa RePlay is the latest multi-channel clip and still store from Chyron. Supporting DV25, DV50, and MPEG-2, it allows stills and clips to be played out independently or digitally layered together. RePlay has independent video and key outputs and supports up to four channels of stills with key, and four channels of clips with key. MPEG-1 proxies allow remote browsing and editing. On the Pro-Bel side, Sirius 256 debuts as a 256×256 multi-format router. New technology allows the Sirius to incorporate analog and digital signal conversion. This lets different formats be mixed within the same frame.

Melville, N.Y.; (631) 845-3895; www.chyron.com

Sanyo is bringing plasmas and LCD projectors to NAB 2003. The PLV-70 is a true 16:9 projector with a brightness rating of 2200 lumens and a 900:1 contrast ratio. It features 3D digital noise correction, vertical and horizontal digital keystone correction, a DVI-D interface, and a whisper-quiet fan system (35 dbA). A variety of optional lenses are available for the wide XGA (1366×768) projector, which handles progressive-scan HDTV.

Chatsworth, Calif.; (818) 998-7322; www.sanyo.com

In January, AKG Wireless added to its popular WMS 40 wireless microphone series. The PR 40 is “probably the smallest and lightest diversity receiver currently on the market,” claims AKG. Also compatible with Microtools series transmitters, the thin PR 40 features a glass-fiber plastic case that makes it rugged enough for outdoor shooting. The unit is powered by two AA dry or rechargeable batteries. The PR 40 operates on one fixed, quartz-stabilized frequency in the 710MHz to 865MHz UHF carrier frequency range. The SR 40 Diversity is the new deluxe version of the popular SR 40 receiver. AKG says the Diversity is more rugged and more reliable in environments hostile to RF transmission. There's an optional rack-mounting kit, and the receiver is available for all standard frequencies. A preset squelch mutes the receiver if the received signal is too weak, so that the related noise or self-noise of the receiver will not become audible when the transmitter is switched off.

Nashville, Tenn.; (615) 620-3800; www.akgwireless.com

In February, Hitachi America announced two new projectors. The CP-SX5600W ($11,995) is a liquid crystal on silicon (LCoS) projector that features SXGA resolution, 1800 lumens of brightness, and a 600:1 contrast ratio. At 12lbs., the projector is designed for both boardroom and home-theater applications. The HDTV-compatible CP-SX5600W accepts DVI, analog RGB, component, and S-Video. Vertical and horizontal keystone correction allow non-centered projector placement. The XGA-resolution CP-X385W weighs 7lbs. and has a brightness of 2200 lumens and 350:1 contrast. Also featuring vertical and horizontal keystone correction, the projector ($7,995) boasts HDTV compability and a Whisper Mode function.

Brisbane, Calif.; (800) 225-1741 www.hitachi.com/digitalmedia

Founded by former Echolab executives, Broadcast Pix is a new company that's showing a Pentium 4 workstation-based live video production system called Broadcast Pix Studio (under $20,000). Chairman Ken Swanton says the system's hardware control panel, its price, and its use of 10-bit digital video instead of 8-bit set it apart from similar “all-in-one” broadcast solutions that can be controlled by a single person. Broadcast Pix has built a lot of redundancy into its Studio — for instance, if the workstation crashes, the router still functions. If the hardware panel fails, there's a soft panel in a browser on the workstation. Broadcast Pix Studio also features a DDR that records 601, DV, and MPEG; a character generator; Pinnacle DVE; still, logo, and PowerPoint stores; a color corrector; switching; three keyers; and a breakout box with 10 SDI and analog inputs. Broadcast Pix is positioning Studio to handle exclusively live broadcast for churches, universities, corporations, and small cable stations.

Burlington, Mass.; (781) 221-2144; www.broadcastpix.com

Primera Technologies now offers an integrated CD/DVD duplication and printing system that allows automated production of up to 25 CDs or DVDs at a time. Bravo Disc Publisher uses a robotic mechanism to transfer discs to the built-in 48x CD-R drive (or optional Pioneer DVD-R with 4X recording) and then to the system's printer (capable of 2400dpi, full-color printing). Bravo interfaces with PCs running Windows 2000 or XP via FireWire or USB and includes Prassi PrimoDVD 2.0 duplication software. For Mac users, Bravo is compatible with OS X and includes CharisMac Engineering's Discribe 5.0 duplication software. Two versions are available. The Bravo CD Publisher lists for $1,995, and the Bravo DVD Publisher is $2,495.

Plymouth, Minn.; (763) 475-6676; www.primeratechnology.com

DVD Workshop, Ulead Systems' DVD authoring software, now supports Dolby AC-3 audio files, allowing viewers to enjoy Dolby 5.1 Surround Sound when viewing content created with the software. The app also includes DVD AutoPlay, an auto-run play-er that allows viewers to watch a DVD without installing DVD playback software on a computer. For more on DVD Workshop, see Jeff Sauer's article, “Authoring a Whole New Story,” in the July 2002 issue. DVD Workshop is $495. The AC-3 PowerPack update for current DVD Workshop users is $199.

Torrance, Calif.; (800) 858-5323; www.ulead.com

Snell & Wilcox HD3060

Snell & Wilcox plans to show a wide variety of products at NAB, including a new MPEG mastering system, the Ukon format conversion platform, the HD3060 HD switcher, and additions to its SwitchPack line of HD/SD switchers. The MPEG mastering system will allow users to optimize content and add metadata at the ingest phase of production. Designed for file-based content creation, storage, quality control, and repurposing, the system bundle includes the Ingest Station mastering encoder, Mosalina quality-control software, and a Smart File transcoder. Snell refers to the Ukon as a “universal conversion platform,” designed for applications requiring content conversion among and between SD and HD formats. Ukon also provides aspect ratio conversion with tilt, pan, and zoom; timecode conversion with precise frame mapping; comprehensive audio handling; and 3:2 cadence detection and repair — all performed in a single pass. Finally, the HD3060 HD switcher comes with 64 inputs (expandable to 128) and 12 keyers. Optional are up to four two-channel DVEs that can apply such effects to the keyers and background transitions as warps, tiling, ripples, rolls, peels, and lighting effects.

Santa Clara, Calif.; (408) 260-1000; www.snellwilcox.com

Inscriber's big announcement in advance of NAB is its new plug-in for Windows Media Encoder 9 Series. InStream serves as a realtime text and graphics engine for the streaming video encoder. Based on Inscriber's TitleExpress technology, InStream ($49) makes it easy to create and display professional titles, logos for on-air branding, or timecode overlay. The company spots the plug-in for live webcasts of corporate presentations and training courses. Inscriber will also show InfoCaster ($2,500), its new application for digital signage content creation.

Waterloo, Ontario; (519) 570-9111; www.inscriber.com

Extending its reach beyond the animation market, Alias|Wavefront offers Alias SketchBook Pro, a pen-based application that allows a Tablet PC to be used as a digital sketchbook. Designed for experts and casual users alike, the software's gesture-based user interface enables quick undo/redo, manipulation of image layers, switching brushes electronically, and the integration of digital sketches into the Windows XP environment. Users can create and save custom brushes, erasers, and airbrushes or smear brushes, and vary their size, transparency, roundness, slant, and stamp spacing. Email integration allows users to share annotations with colleagues directly from Alias SketchBook Pro after marking up an image, screen capture, or document. Downloading the software costs $129; a CD-ROM version costs $20 extra.

Toronto; (416) 362-9181; www.aliaswavefront.com

Furthering its line of fiber offerings, Multidyne will show the DVM-2500, DV-1394, OPTIMUX-650, the FMX-230 series, the DVM-8000, DVM-2700, and RGB-2000. The DVM-2500 is a bi-directional fiber optic multiplexer that supports one video, six audio, and four data channels over a single fiber. Video bandwidth is 8MHz, and the company claims a video signal-to-noise ratio greater than 75dB and a signal-to-quantizing-noise ratio greater than 71dB. The DVM-2700 is a two-channel multiplexer that supports two video, 10 audio, and four simplex data channels. The DVM-8000 is a bi-directional multiplexer that supports eight video channels, 16 audio channels, four data channels, an intercom channel, and two telephone lines in one direction; in the other direction, it supports four video, eight audio, four data, an intercom, and two phone lines.

The OPTIMUX-650 is a four-channel opto-electrical multiplexer designed for applications in which multiple fiber optic signals need to be multiplexed onto a single fiber using equipment already in place. Essentially, it remaps up to four signals of existing multi- or single-mode optical signals to one of four CWDM (Coarse Wave-Division Multiplexing) wavelengths and then muxes them onto a single fiber using an internal CWDM.

The FMX-230 series is a line of add-and-drop RS-232 or RS-422 data transceivers that function regardless of the number of nodes present in the network. Designed as a low-cost solution for connecting multiple devices in a fault-tolerant, drop-and-insert network, the unit can transmit or receive data at rates up to 112kbps via packet data transmission technology.

A fiber optic transmission system for compressed serial digital video, the DV-1394 conforms to the FireWire IEEE 1394 A/B protocol. Using an IEEE 1394 PHY and an optical transceiver, the unit can send FireWire signals across a fiber optic cable from 500m to 50km, Multidyne claims.

The RGB-2000 fiber optic transport system provides a total bandwidth of 500MHz for transporting RGB video and audio, keyboard, and control — allowing a computer or imaging device to be in a separate location from the monitors. The system uses loop-through BNC coaxial inputs as well as an HD15 XVGA input. It supports resolutions up to 1600×1200 pixels over three optical fibers. The unit can also handle YcRcB, component, and analog HDTV signals.

Locust Valley, NY; (516) 671-7278; www.multidyne.com

New for NAB from Accom are WSD/HDi and improved software for Abekas 6000 and Affinity. The WSD/HDi DDR, an uncompressed HDTV recording solution, has a video disk storage array integrated into a compact chassis. The device stores SD and HD uncompressed video formats with optional uncompressed digital audio in a single unit, and its import/export utility is designed to interface with a network of graphics-rendering computers and film printers without concern for proprietary file formats, according to Accom. Version 4.5 of the Abekas 6000 NLE operating software now includes improved connectivity to Telestream's FlipFactory, split audio editing, faster Fibre Channel transfer speeds with the FC option, an updated content management panel, and improved network connectivity. Similarly, Dimension 8.3.3 software for Affinity now features redesigned footage management, allowing faster and more effective location and searching of footage files. Users will also find TrackSheet improvements to speed workflow and extended audio file support; users can now import MP3, WAV, AIF, AU, GSM MPEG, QCP, CD Audio, and AIFF files.

Menlo Park, Calif.; (650) 328-3818; www.accom.com

In early January CustomFlix Labs announced its CustomFlix DVD Publishing Kit ($59.95), a package that allows users to set their content up with the company in but a few steps. The kit provides video pros and filmmakers with blank DVD-R media, a prepaid mailer, and complete instructions on how to customize text and a streaming trailer for their project's CustomFlix-powered e-store. Upon receiving the content, CustomFlix customizes the title's e-store to the producer's specifications and handles duplication, e-commerce, packaging, and fulfillment as each video or DVD copy is ordered.

Los Gatos, Calif.; (978) 626-0061; www.customflix.com

Masstech Group will debut four new products at NAB this year — MassMedia Box, MassExpand with MassNAS, MassBrowser, and MassLogger. MassMedia Box is expandable for end-to-end content management and includes the ability to create proxy versions of MPEG-2 files for use with low-bandwidth IP networks. MassExpand with MassNAS (optional Network Attached Storage system with more than 1.4TB RAID 5 storage) is a hardware/software platform for expanding disk-to-disk storage of digital content for such devices as content-delivery systems and video servers. MassExpand is compatible with open VACP and XML and can be used with third-party SANs. A thin client for Windows, MassBrowser allows MassProxy-generated proxies as frame-accurate representations with timecode. Using MPEG-4 encoding and playback, MassLogger is designed as a VCR replacement for off-air logging and confidence-recording applications.

Richmond Hill, Ontario; (905) 886-1833; www.masstechgroup.com

FOR-A plans to showcase extensions of its broadcast line of switchers and signal processing equipment, as well as its offerings within virtual studio and realtime broadcast graphics technology. DigiWarp EX II, a new version of the digiWarp virtual studio system, features expanded masking and chroma-key capabilities and includes a software-based image processor, controller with software, and a camera-tracking or sensor system. FOR-A will also introduce a new 24p version of the Hanabi two mix/effect, dual SD/HD switcher with multiple-channel DVE. The IVS-300 is a video stabilizer with analog composite I/O, and the IVS-500 is also a video stabilizer with digital I/O. Both units are designed to stabilize shaking images, such as those that may arrive from ENG shoots or weather surveillance cameras. The FA-115 and FA-125 are time base correctors/frame synchronizers available as standalone units or modular cards. The FA-125 comes with built-in noise reduction.

FOR-A, by the way, recently entered into a joint marketing agreement in which VertigoXmedia's broadcast graphics animation suite, Producer Xmedia, will provide management and control for FOR-A partner Brainstorm's 3D realtime broadcast graphics and virtual studio system. A MOS-compliant server anchors the Producer Xmedia, scalable from a few users to several hundred. The integration of both systems ultimately allows users to work with Producer Xmedia's drag-and-drop graphic interface as it controls Brainstorm's system.

Cypress, Calif.; (714) 894-3311; www.for-a.com

Artesia Technologies recently announced that its Teams digital asset management solution will be integrated with EMC's Centera Content Addressed Storage (CAS) system. The fully integrated DAM and storage system is designed to handle such digital assets as text-based documents, images and graphics, and audio and video recordings. Additional features derived from the integration include an asset-centric workflow system (combines both the asset and its workflow record into one stored record), rich-media support, web interface, and enterprise-class, component-based architecture (system scalable to meet changing needs).

Artesia: Rockville, Md.; (301) 548-4000; www.artesia.com

EMC: Hopkinton, Mass.; (508) 435-1000; www.emc.com

New from A/V distribution equipment manufacturer FSR is its SN-4100 line of VGA distribution amplifiers. Both the SN-4100 ($495) and the SN-4100A ($850) are four input to one output, high-resolution VGA switchers, and they ship with a power supply and a rackmount kit with removable blank panel. Both units are 1 RU high, 1/2 RU wide, and the video inputs are all HD-15 standard VGA inputs. The 4100A adds balanced stereo audio-follow-video. Standard for the SN-4100A are four stereo balanced inputs (but still compatible with unbalanced audio). The inputs connect through a five-position, plug-gable screw terminal.

West Paterson, N.J.; (973)785-4347; www.fsrinc.com

From DNF Controls comes the DMAT-O sports controller designed for video servers using the Odetics broadcast protocol. Through the system, users can generate slow-motion instant replay and build and manage highlight list playout. Additionally, the DMAT-O's simultaneous recording and playback capability allows the user to continue recording interviews and on-field action after cutting away to spots. Featuring simplified keyboard commands, the system also sports a T-bar to afford heightened speed control while viewing recorded material.

The 3040P playlist playout system is available now with a new download option. The system, built on DNF Controls' robust ST400 controller with an easy-to-read LCD display, lets users create, download, and edit video clip sequences and control their playback. To draw clips out of the video server, operators use the 3040P interface to scroll through and build a list of available clips for individual or list playout. They can insert or delete new clips as the playlist is playing. Now playlists may be downloaded from traffic systems. In the event of an on-air automation failure, the 3040P takes control of the server and continues the playlist from the point of failure.

Sylmar, Calif.; (818) 898-3380; www.dnfcontrols.com

Sonic Solutions will be showing a new member of its flagship Scenarist line, which includes Scenarist Professional, a Hollywood-standard tool for DVD authoring. Scenarist Studio, which debuted at January's New York DV Expo, offers the ability to create DVD-9 titles — single-sided, dual-layered discs that hold up to four hours of video and audio. The feature set of Scenarist Studio ($7,999) also includes subtitle stream support, the ability to work with up to three video angles, and what Sonic describes as the highest degree of DVD player compatibility available.

On the lower end of DVD authoring, Sonic also announced that its MyDVD 4 software is now bundled with Hitachi's new DVD-RAM cameras worldwide. Included with Hitachi's DVD-RAM DZ-MV350 series and DZ-MV380 series cameras, Sonic MyDVD provides Hitachi's customers with a solution for turning their home videos, music, and digital photos into Hollywood-style DVDs with motion-menu backgrounds, animated buttons, and high-quality slideshows.

Novato, Calif.; (415) 893-8000; www.sonic.com

Side Effects Software, makers of the Houdini family of 3D software products, announced the availability of updated software and new online training materials for its Houdini Apprentice program. Houdini Apprentice, essentially a nonprofessional light edition of the Houdini product family, is available free and includes updated versions of Houdini Select (modeling and basic animation), Houdini Master (animation and effects), Houdini Halo (compositing), Houdini Escape (characters), and Houdini Mantra (rendering). Side Effects Software is also posting new online videos that teach such compositing concepts as layering, relighting, rotosplines, repurposing masks, and depth of field to the company's community home page (www.sidefx.com/community).

Toronto; (416) 504-9876; www.sidefx.com

ParkerVision announced a new interface that allows users of the PVTV News Control System in conjunction with the Associated Press' Electronic News Production System (ENPS) to work more efficiently. The PVTV systems can now receive rundown, story, and production commands directly from the ENPS via Media Object Server (MOS) protocol. The company plans to extend the use of MOS into components of the ParkerVision system.

Jacksonville, Fla.; (904) 737-1367; www.parkervision.com

ATAbaby from Nexsan Technologies is a 1TB-capacity storage solution that weighs only 16lbs. and measures 1 RU high. ATAbaby provides RAID protection in a compact desktop or rackmount package, and an independent ATA channel for each of the four drives ensures heightened performance. ATAbaby (starting at $1,800) supports RAID levels 0, 5, and JBOD (LUNs) as well as SCSI Enclosure Services (SES) for in-band status reporting. Further status information is available via a serial port GUI. The unit's RAID controller features a standard 64MB cache that is factory-expandable to 256MB.

Woodland Hills, Calif.; (866) 463-9726; www.nexsan.com

Sony has expanded its line of DVD-recordable products with a new pair of combination drives for the PC that support the DVD+RW, DVD+R, DVD-RW, and DVD-R formats. The DRU-500AX (internal) and DRU-500ULX (external) can both record to 4X-compatible DVD+R and DVD-R discs at up to 4X speeds, and they offer enhanced software for mastering and drag-and-drop file management. The DRU-500AX comes with an ATAPI interface for easier installation, and the DR-500ULX features an IEEE 1394 and a USB 2.0 interface.

Park Ridge, NJ; (800) 352-7669; www.storagebysony.com

Tandberg Television will use NAB as an opportunity to showcase a number of new products, among which is its new realtime hardware encoding platform for Windows Media 9 Series. Also notable is a digital satellite newsgathering technology developed with Raytheon and Vocality International. It's a 2 RU digital flyaway that fits into two suitcases and is capable of bi-directional transmission of video, audio, and data feed from a remote transmission site. The system employs a Tandberg E5740 Voyager encoder, miniaturized antenna technology from Raytheon, and a V100 versatile multiplexer from Vocality. This is a high-quality alternative to satellite videophones (which transmit 352×288 CIF images) — with almost the same level of portability at 60lbs. to 80lbs. Video can be transmitted at bit rates as low as 1.6Mbps. A full system costs roughly $130,000. NBC has already bought several units for deployment in the Middle East.

EarlyBird is a comprehensive digital broadcasting system designed to minimize startup costs for new direct-to-home broadcasters. Tandberg will also launch E5780 (an encoding solution for HD broadcast delivery over ATSC and DVB networks), nCompass (an integrated solution for operations management), and Cortex (a system for scheduling, controlling, monitoring, and optimizing IP and ATM connections). The company's booth will be divided into different zones, each focusing on a different specific link in the broadcasting chain.

Orlando, Fla.; (407) 380-7055; www.tandbergtv.com

For the past couple years, VBrick has made a name for itself via its solutions for sending and receiving DVD-quality video over broadband networks. For this NAB, VBrick announces a webcasting appliance that uses the scalable, bandwidth-saving MPEG-4 as its compression format of choice. VBXcast connects to a video camera, DVD player, or VCR to deliver a video stream over any network. On the end user side, video plays back with standard viewers as well as VBrick's free StreamPlayer viewer.

Wallingford, Conn.; (203) 265-6750; www.vbrick.com

Last year's big announcement from Ultimatte at NAB was news of an upcoming software version of the company's famed bluescreen/greenscreen keying program. That product materialized later last year as AdvantEdge ($1,495). Video chroma correction is a key feature of that software — AdvantEdge has algorithms to compensate for compression artifacts in 4:2:2, 4:2:0, and 4:1:1 video. Speaking of which, Ultimatte announced in the fall that it would incorporate AdvantEdge's matte-extraction algorithm into its 24P High Definition system. Ultimatte also shipped a Virtual Control Panel late last year. It's a software user interface for the remote operation and adjustment of the company's product line, which previously had to be run by a dedicated hardware control panel. This saves customers up to 25% off the total system purchase price. All Ultimatte systems now feature the Virtual Control Panel.

Chatsworth, Calif.; (818) 993-8007; www.ultimatte.com

From Doremi Labs comes the new MCS Multi-Channel Broadcast Video Servers, each of which is housed in a 3 RU chassis and is available with a variety of playback combinations. Current products include the MCS-1r3p (one record, three play channels), the MCS-1r2p (one record, two playback channels), and MCS-2r2p (two record, two playback channels). For additional channels, multiple MCS units may be linked together. All units feature a front panel that mimics VTR controls and compatibility with Odetics and VDCP automation and Sony nine-pin machine control. Starting at $15,000, MCS Servers operate on a dedicated video hardware platform and are available with dual redundant power supplies and external RAID 5 storage.

Burbank, Calif.; (818) 562-1101; www.doremilabs.com

Ross Video is showing a pair of new products at NAB: the QMA-8044, a quad SDI to analog composite video monitoring amplifier, and Squeeze & Tease 3D DVE, an addition to the Synergy 100 digital production switcher. The QMA-8044 card provides high-density and high-quality methods for monitoring conversion of multiple feeds, says Ross. The RossGear card frame holds up to 10 of the cards, which would fit 40 monitoring converters in a 2 RU space. Squeeze & Tease provides two channels of 3D DVE and enables transitions, over-the-shoulder boxes, and the ability to fly and transition any type of key. Users program effects via the memory area and recall effects either as snapshots or using effects dissolves.

Iroquois, Ontario; (613) 652-4886; www.rossvideo.com

Evertz Microsystems is showing a slew of products at this year's show. The Analog Quattro monitoring card analyzes and displays audio, video, and data status information and alerts on fault conditions for four video inputs simultaneously in a 2×2 matrix. The MVP signal monitoring system features a multi-image display and does not limit users to a single type of input. The unit handles up to 48 video inputs per frame. The MVP decodes and displays two audio groups per video input. The 1RU 9000NCP network control panel features a four-line, 24 alphanumeric digit VFD display with illuminated push buttons and a positional rotary switch. A reserved 25th digit is used to display network connection status as well as other small graphics and icons, providing a quick status reference. The 56000MSC master sync/clock generator solves the problem of locking the inhouse master clock system to the master video sync pulse generator in broadcast facilities. It also provides all the synchronizing signals needed and features six independently phasable reference outputs, two independent LTC timecode outputs, 5MHz/10MHz frequency input, and 10MHz frequency reference output. Finally, the PKGHD9625SW mini master control switcher allows users to control up to 12 input video signals and up to 48 AES audio inputs. Via the single remote control panel, the unit performs voiceovers, wipes, fades, and several other functions.

Burlington, Ontario; (905) 335-3700; www.evertz.com

Artbeats shows new collections of its royalty-free stock footage. The high-definition and standard-definition collections include Family Life, Lifestyle Mixed Cuts, Deep Forest, Digital Refractions, On the Road POV, Military Machines, Control Panels, and San Francisco Ground. Footage is either computer-generated or sourced from 35mm film. Existing libraries include special effects, scenics, aerials, lifestyles, and backgrounds. Clips can be purchased individually.

Myrtle Creek, Ore.; (800) 444-9392; www.artbeats.com

The Argus MX MPEG-2 encoder from Vela features 4:2:2 encoding up to 50Mbps and 4:2:0 encoding up to 15Mbps. An embedded hardware multiplexer is meant to reduce host CPU use. The Argus MX encoder includes an LTC timecode input, four channels of analog and digital audio, and four channels of embedded audio in SDI. Vela is showing another MPEG-2 encoder. Called RapidAccess, it's controlled through its own built-in media management software. RapidAccess can be configured with one input and up to four outputs in a single unit. Via additional I/Os, units can be networked together, and all encoder units would share the same storage array and database.

Clearwater, Fla.; (727) 507-5352; www.vela.com

Telestream recognizes the promise of MPEG-4 as a video format suitable for delivery over IP. The highly scalable compression standard figures prominently in the company's flagship FlipFactory transcoding automation software in the form of the PacketVideo MPEG-4 encoder. Telestream is truly thinking small here, focusing on getting that MPEG-4 video to wireless devices such as mobile phones and PDAs. PacketVideo technology has already found its way into offerings from leading operators and handset manufacturers.

At NAB Telestream will also show its Media Capture system, which automates recording of multiple live video feeds and associated metadata. Users can then search, organize, view, and share media from their desktops. Designed for news applications, Media Capture encodes and stores media in Windows Media 9 format.

Nevada City, Calif.; (530) 470-1300; www.telestream.net

At NAB 2003 Communications Specialties is showing two members of its Pure Digital Fiberlink series. The 7070 series supports component video formats including YPbPr, YCbCr, YUV, and Y/RY/BY. It also supports two independent audio channels over one single-node or multimode fiber and features 14MHz luminance bandwidth and 7MHz chrominance bandwidth.

The Pure Digital Fiberlink 7140 series can be used to transmit video in NTSC, PAL, and SECAM formats and is available in card or box versions. Featuring 7MHz bandwidth, it transmits four channels of composite video with eight independent audio channels over a single fiber.

Hauppauge, N.Y.; (631) 273-0404; www.commspecial.com

Studio Network Solutions is offering an easy way to integrate multiple operating systems into a single SAN environment. The company behind A/V SAN and A/V SAN PRO brings a new SAN management software application called SANmp, which supports Mac OS 9 and OS X and Windows 2000 and XP. It does not require a server or an Ethernet connection and lets users configure, create RAID sets, set access privileges at the user level, and manage, share, and access SAN resources.

St. Louis; (314) 494-8040; www.studionetworksolutions.com

Late last year, Pioneer announced the fifth generation of its combination DVD-R/RW and CD-R/RW drive. The DVR-A05, famous as the SuperDrive in Macintosh computers, will be shown at NAB cheaper and more powerful than ever. Two years ago at the show, this drive was heralded as a breakthrough product because of its sub-$1,000 pricing. Today, just $299 will get you record rates of 4X for DVD-R and 2X for DVD-RW, not to mention Sonic's MyDVD 4.0 and Pinnacle's InstantWrite drag-and-drop file storage software. Pioneer also will introduce a new industrial video recorder at NAB, but no details were available at press time.

Long Beach, Calif.; (310) 952-2111; www.pioneerusa.com

Audio Accessories will show its popular Quick-Switch Shorti line of professional broadcast-quality patchbays. These wired patchbays allow audio engineers to set normalling during installation and change it easily at any time — and they can even adjust individual normals on a per-jack basis. The Quick-Switch patchbays are available in .172in. MINI (2×48, 2 RU) and 1/4in. MAXI Long-Frame (2×26, 1 RU) models. Both are mounted on the rear of a 3in.-deep Shorti box. There's also a 1/4in. Shorti sleeve-normalling patchbay with all connections out, mounted on the rear of a 4in.-deep Shorti box.

Marlow, N.H.; (603) 446-3335; www.patchbays.com

Earlier this year Digidesign announced the availability of Pro Tools 6.0 for Mac OS X. In addition to support for the operating system, new features include a streamlined new look for the Mix, Edit, and Transport windows. There's also increased performance with dual-processor G4 systems. A new multi-user login functionality enables individual users to save custom display, operation, editing, processing, and MIDI preferences. Speaking of MIDI, Pro Tools has received a MIDI makeover, fully supporting the Mac OS X Core MIDI engine. Windows XP support of the new features in Pro Tools 6.0 is scheduled for the middle of the year.

Daly City, Calif.; (650) 731-6300; www.digidesign.com

At the show, SGI is displaying a prepackaged SAN solution based on an Origin server. With SGI's scalable file system and pooled architecture, the SAN is designed around controlling and tracking data throughout the process of digital content creation. The system supports Irix, Windows NT/2000, and Sun Solaris operating systems, and use of the CXFS file format enables images to be moved around in realtime without typical compatibility problems. The SAN present at the show includes servers, a Fibre Channel switch, and the CXFS software.

Mountain View, Calif.; (650) 960-1980; www.sgi.com

In January Videotek launched several new products. At the show, it will unveil 10 more. The DDM-520 is a frequency-agile 8VSB demodulator and MPEG-2 HDTV/SDTV decoder that supports any broadcast, cable, or satellite facility receiving terrestrial 8VSB signals. The new DDM-540 frequency-agile demodulator/decoder adds to the standard features of the existing DDM-520 by providing for additional monitoring of signals with an HD SDI output. The SQM-175 is a macroblocking detection module that enhances the capabilities of the SQM-Signal Quality Manager System. Accepting two independent composite analog signals, the module uses patented technology to analyze the signals for the existence of MPEG macroblocks and creates alarms upon detection. Another SQM module, the SQM-160AV allows users to key all signal and alarm information over the incoming video source for viewing on an analog monitor or monitor wall.

Pottstown, Pa.; (610) 327-2292; www.videotek.com

Last fall StorageTek introduced a Fibre Channel-based storage system called BladeStore. Designed for archiving, BladeStore relies on Maxtor MaXLine II drives. The disk subsystem scales from 4TB to 160TB. Another storage solution StorageTek is showing at NAB is the latest generation of its V2X Shared Virtual Array. The storage system includes a new switched-fibre architecture that increases addressing, cache, and capacity.

Louisville, Colo.; (800) 877-9220; www.storagetek.com