During IBC2013, version 7.1 of Volicon’s Observer TS MPEG transport stream logging
and monitoring system will make its European debut. Enhanced to accommodate an
even broader array of inputs, the Observer line boasts support for ASI, QAM, 8-VSB,
DVB-T/T2, and DVB-T MPEG TS interfaces. Available on all Observer TS systems –
including Enterprise, Pro, and Scout systems – the new interface simplifies deployment
and configuration for receiving off-air channels.
Volicon will also feature expandable Observer TS systems that provide a clear path for
cost-effective growth of a facility’s monitoring systems. Users can purchase an Observer
platform that meets current needs, knowing that as their operations grow, their
monitoring system can easily keep pace with expanding monitoring applications and
requirements. Volicon’s growing array of software modules also facilitates incremental
growth by supplying broadcasters with specific monitoring tools and capabilities as
needed.
With commercial and programme loudness being legislated worldwide, broadcasters,
networks, and video service providers must be able to monitor loudness in real time, as
well as provide an affidavit of compliance for regulators and advertisers. As growing
attention is paid to the stereo downmix of the 5.1 channel HD programme track,
Volicon’s loudness module makes it easy for broadcasters to confirm that no matter
how their customers watch and listen to programming, loudness levels will remain within
acceptable parameters. The Observer loudness module meets this challenge for
broadcasters worldwide, enabling users to measure AC3 dialnorm levels and ensure
compliance with ITU BS.1770-1 and ITU BS.1770-2, ATSC A/85 RP 2011, CALM Act
(FCC Report 11-182A1), EBU R128 (Tech 3341/2/3/4), and ARIB TR-B32.
Observer 7.1 is available with a new reporting engine that provides data correlation and
display for programme and channel metadata and performance. Leveraging this
reporting engine, the Reporter module allows operators to automate and accelerate the
generation of detailed high-quality reports (in PDF form) for analysis and verification that
is tailored to the broadcaster’s operations. The data supplied by the Reporter includes
Observer’s extensive and continually growing array of monitoring parameters. As a
result, Reporter produces the rich detail necessary to isolate specific issues in the
broadcast signal. To add further efficiency to monitoring operations, Observer users can
configure the Reporter module for automatic report generation and email distribution. All
Volicon customers using an Observer system with central servers and a reporting licence
receive this new reporting capability as a standard feature.
Volicon’s Clientless GUI enables operation of the Observer system without requiring the
installation of a local player. For the many broadcasters and other media facilities that
leverage Observer throughout their operations, the Clientless GUI enables widespread
use with minimal maintenance and support requirements. Upgrades and updates to the
Observer interface are reflected automatically in the GUI, giving users throughout the
enterprise the immediate benefit of new features and functionality without any
intervention from IT staff.
