- Version 7.0 of Volicon‘s Observer® transport stream (TS) MPEG transport stream logging and monitoring system has been enhanced to accommodate an even broader array of inputs, including ASI, QAM, 8-VSB, and DVB-T MPEG TS interfaces, and to provide improved system density for HD and SD programs. Newly simplified user interfaces on the Observer system make it even easier for satellite, cable, broadcast, and IPTV operators to address the volume and complexity of broadcast and network services. With this IBC2012 debut, Volicon will demonstrate how the Observer 7.0 system allows users to log MPEG transport streams continuously, as well as monitor A/V content including BS.1770-2 loudness and other correlations of data and video. Additionally, Observer 7.0 allows users to stream and export content to all stakeholders in the media enterprise. As Observer TS logs the full transport stream, the user is able to go back an hour, a day, a week, or a month to examine and/or export content and effectively eliminate chronic issues with service handoffs. Low bit rate proxies, WMV or H.264, and DVR-like frame-accurate controls allow for easy content review, even when operating over an enterprise network or WAN. Leveraged across the enterprise, Observer 7.0 can provide benefits to hundreds of users. Its low-resolution proxy streaming functionality gives executives the benefit of easy desktop review of live and recorded content, enables engineering staff to monitor and maintain quality of experience, and gives sales staff a tool for rapid ad verification.
- Volicon will also demonstrate its Observer® Scout logging and monitoring solution, newly equipped with loudness monitoring. The Observer Scout is a low-cost enterprise-grade A/V monitoring, logging, and troubleshooting system that allows broadcasters and networks to perform proactive content-based monitoring. The new loudness monitoring module for Observer Scout allows users to handle loudness complaint issues quickly and efficiently, while troubleshooting loudness issues as they arise. By adding BS-1770-2, EBU R128, and ATSC A/85 compliant loudness monitoring into the Observer Scout logger, Volicon gives operators unparalleled loudness management tools and a whole lot more—all for the cost of a stand-alone loudness meter.
- Also on display will be Volicon’s triggered recording module that offers valuable functionality across a variety of applications. When implemented along with the Observer® Remote Program Monitor (RPM), this module facilitates both ad verification and transport stream (TS) proof of experience. The module supports Volicon’s ad verification module, which allows operators to log and perform A/V quality checks on ad insertions or high-value programs. The triggered recording module leverages the Observer RPM system to change channels and record an entire ad insertion window. With 24/7 recording, users can clip and export full-motion, full-frame-rate recordings of A/V ad assets for troubleshooting or proof of delivery, skipping time-consuming troubleshooting sessions. The module enables operators to gather visual proof of experience related to MPEG impairments. It leverages SNMP alerts from an MPEG TS analyzer to identify stream issues, dial the affected channel, and create an A/V clip highlighting the MPEG impairment. With access to these automatically generated clips, engineers can evaluate the severity of the issue and focus their efforts on the impairments that most affect the customer experience. In the cable environment, this capability aids in improving service levels and reducing technician dispatch costs.
