PlayBox will introduce the latest versions of its CloudAir platform at NAB 2017

Seven new features for CloudAir are being introduced at NAB, plus over 40 new features for the various modules in the Neo series.

PlayBox Technology introduce the latest versions of its CloudAir universal playout and streaming platform and Neo channel-in-a-box product suite. “We will also be making a very big announcement on the floor at this year’s NAB so please make sure you come and see us on booth N5311 in the North Hall,” says US director of operations Van Duke.

Seven new features for CloudAir are being introduced to the US market at NAB, plus over 40 new features for the various modules in the Neo series. CloudAir and Neo can match any workflow whether live, automated or both, any scale up to and including multi-channel network transmitting in multiple languages, and any combination of delivery platforms: terrestrial, satellite, cable or streaming over the cloud.

“We are a listening company, responding quickly and effectively to requests via system integrators and directly from customers,” adds PlayBox Technology president Don Ash. “We have worked very closely with our customers and system integration partners around the world to ensure that Neo and CloudAir match user requirements over the long term, not just at the moment of purchase.

“Customers can upgrade their Neo playout systems when and wherever they choose, via a simple online download if their servers are up to spec, and free of charge if they subscribe to an annual maintenance contract. This strategy is particularly appreciated during times of rapid evolution in technical standards, now progressing faster than ever.

“Our playout servers include an IP output which offers massive savings in terms of studio to transmitter links. Dedicated fibre-optic telco lines carrying traditional digital video can be extremely costly, especially if charged as one link to the local telco hub and another out to the terrestrial, satellite or internet transmission service-provider. We established this mode of operation several years ago when we introduced EdgeBox. A core EdgeBox or EdgeBox Neo playout server is located at the broadcaster’s choice of remote playout facility. Management and monitoring of entire channels can then be performed via a secure IP link from a desktop computer located practically anywhere. Our SaaS-based CloudAir solution takes that concept even further.”

New CloudAir features to be demonstrated at NAB 2017 will include with a transcoder capable of handling multiple file containers and formats including MPEG PS/TS, MXF, QT, AVI, MP4, GXF, MPG2, H.264, ProRes, DNX HD and MJPEG. Also new are an enhanced graphics editor template preparation interface, improved playlist editing, advanced playlist export to EPGs and automated linking of stored assets.

Neo server-based products

Enhancements to the Neo server-based product range include extended control features, expanded file handling capabilities, greater input and output connectivity and Microsoft Windows 10 compatibility. These have all been implemented within an informative and intuitive graphic interface which is familiar to operators around the world.

AirBox Neo supports UHD, HD and SD playout from a single server. It is designed for 24/7 unattended operation and can also be operated manually, including the ability to handle live-to-air throughput. New additions include streaming input compatibility with HTTP(S), UDP, RTMP, MMS(H) and YouTube plus streaming output support for UDP, RTSP and ATSC.

The TitleBox Neo on-air graphics and character generator gains the ability to accept and export database and spreadsheet content in the CSV (comma-separated values) format. Also added are support for the NewTek Tricaster NDI protocol and an API plugin for Blackmagic DeckLink audio/video capture and playback cards

Enhancements to the CaptureBox Neo multichannel ingest server include a new streaming input compatible with HTTPS, HTTP, UDP, RTMP, MMS, MMSH and YouTube. CaptureBox Neo also now supports the HEVC file format and direct ingest from Sony’s XAVC 4K recording format.

Multi Backup Manager is designed for backing up multiple playout channels simultaneously. It gains a GPI alarm plugin and router control for the Grass Valley NV9000.

ProductionAirBox Neo is a media manipulation and delivery system with the near-zero latency demanded for broadcast news, sports and live production. New features include enhanced playlist performance, faster-than-ever operational response, enhanced audio quality, audio media trimming, XKeys control compatibility, NDI protocol compatibility (including Play on PGM tally on and Cue Next on PGM Tally off), plus support for 4K 50p, 59.94p and 60p.

SafeBox Neo replicates remote content to local playout server folders for safe transmission. It is now enhanced to handle multiple instances, subtitle copying and additional media file copying.