Hong Kong’s now TV selects BroadStream’s OASYS
November 25, 2015
Automated playout specialist, BroadStream Solutions, is providing more than 20 OASYS playout channels to Hong Kong-based now TV, which uses advanced IPTV technology to deliver content to its customers.
now TV was looking for a channel-in-a-box (CiaB) solution to replace its traditional master control playout system in time for the new playout services.
“The OASYS platform was just what we were looking for,” said Alan Chan, VP Broadcast Operations & Engineering, PCCW . “Not only does it provide multi-channel playout of live and pre-recorded content with broadcast quality graphics from a single IT server; the system can also dynamically manage channel redundancy with 1:1, M:1 and/or M:N configurations with channel prioritization. For us this reliability and resilience were absolutely imperative in our purchasing decision.”
now TV is using a single OASYS IT-based playout platform operating on industry standard IT hardware which is controlled via an intuitive user interface, to provide all the functionality that would previously require multiple legacy systems to deliver; including master control switchers, video servers, character generators, logo inserters, vision switchers and DVEs. The OASYS system, which was installed by BroadStream’s local distributor, Magna Systems, not only saves on investment and space, but also reduces time and resource spent on training and day-to-day operation.
After initially installing 8 primary and 4 backup channels of OASYS for playout services with graphic inserts, now TV gradually expanded the system and now uses the OASYS platform for most of its new services with richer onscreen graphics; program title keying, dynamic scrolls and channel branding.
“Upscaling BroadStream’s OASYS solution is incredibly straightforward. You can literally plug & play to launch a new channel; plus OASYS has IP in/out capability which fits into our future plans for IP playout – we already have an IP infrastructure and are delivering content to our customers using IPTV technology”, Chan explained.
“We’re very pleased with the level of support we receive from BroadStream too,” continued Chan.
”BroadStream helps us solve problems without any red tape, form-filling, or incident reports, which often slow down progress. Any issues or questions we have are dealt with promptly and professionally.”
now TV uses BroadStream’s OASYS Integrated Playout platform to playout 20+ channels and because of the system’s modular design, they can easily license new modules and channels when needed, without having to upgrade their existing hardware.
“Our ongoing relationship with the diligent team at now TV is a testament to the high quality and reliability that all of our customers can expect when they invest in BroadStream’s platform and our people,” said Ben Wolk, President of Sales & Business Development at BroadStream Solutions.
“We’re incredibly proud to be at the forefront when it comes to improving workflow for companies that embrace technological advances in the way that now TV does.”