Munich 27-Aug-2021
Pixel Power, the global leader in master control playout, automation and graphics, has delivered a StreamMaster BRAND software-defined graphics engine to WDSC-TV in Daytona Beach, Florida. The sophisticated graphics and branding system operates autonomously under the control of the station’s existing ADC automation system.
StreamMaster BRAND draws on Pixel Power’s four decades legacy of excellence in graphics to deliver live lower thirds, bugs, promos and other branding. A set of defined rules determines its content and insertion is triggered by the station automation. At WDSC a link between StreamMaster BRAND and the broadcaster’s Myers Pro Track broadcast management system delivers the metadata required to populate the graphics templates and voiceovers.
WDSC had an existing, simpler graphics insertion device which was life-expired and no longer supported. Pixel Power was able to offer a direct, plug-compatible replacement with interface to their ADC automation system with greatly extended functionality and graphics quality. As a software-defined, virtualized device, StreamMaster BRAND is resolution independent (upscaling existing standard definition assets) and can work within IP or SDI environments.
“Pixel Power assured us that the StreamMaster software would be operationally identical to our old system, and so it proved to be,” said Larry Lowe, station manager of WDSC-TV at Daytona State College. “We unplugged the old device, plugged in the StreamMaster BRAND and we were on air. It would be great if all systems were as well conceived and implemented, and in the time of Covid-19 to be able to commission something remotely without the need for teams of engineers getting involved is really important.”
Mike O’Connell of Pixel Power Inc. added “In a cost-effective, compact package we could first meet the current requirements for WDSC, then add the option for much more. The software licencing model for StreamMaster BRAND means that users can determine exactly what functionality they require, like realtime 3D graphics and multi-channel DVE, and precisely meet their branding image and budget.”
The StreamMaster BRAND at WDSC is now on air.
Rohde & Schwarz Broadcast and Media
For decades, Rohde & Schwarz has been a leading technology innovator in broadcast distribution and a trusted partner in media production. Broadcast solutions from Rohde & Schwarz deliver the latest generation of energy-efficient, software-defined transmitters and enable network operators to leverage new broadcast technologies. Providing solutions for live and studio production, post-production, multiviewing and playout, Rohde & Schwarz helps media professionals produce and deliver great content.
