STN realizes space and workflow efficiencies using iTX IT-based playout 

May 17, 2011

Satellite Telecommunications Network (STN),has added 8 new channels using a new Miranda iTX IT-based automation and playout system.

The additional iTX channels are delivered for SAT7, bringing the total number of channels that STN provides services for to more than 300, with clients spanning Europe, the Americas, Africa, the Middle East, and Asia.

"By moving to the iTX system, we have realized major space efficiencies”, says Mitja Lovsin, Managing Director of STN. “We have reduced the rack space per channel from 42RU with traditional broadcast hardware to just 12RU”.

“The new system also offers highly versatile workflows, which are well suited to our business. For instance, we can easily playout a live event and overlay graphics, while recording the show for re-runs. The ingest process also provides very flexible handling of scheduled and real-time feeds, with straight-forward encoding from tape, satellite feeds or live inputs”.

To provide an advanced and highly flexible graphics capability, all the new STN channels are equipped with Miranda Vertigo XG advanced graphics processors, which operate downstream of the iTX Output Servers. These graphics processors are used for a wide mix of channel branding, including interactive and data-driven graphics, as well as in-show promos.

Miranda’s iTX IT-based automation and playout system uses enterprise grade IT servers and software to unify and streamline ingest, media management, schedule management, asset management, automation, signal processing, master control, graphics and multi-format playout.

This IT-based architecture reduces the complexity of facilities and simplifies maintenance, while also improving the quality of service. By handling all stages of the production and delivery process under a consistent user environment, the system also delivers unprecedented increases in efficiency, scalability and speed of response for media businesses.