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THE NEWS
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Hannu Pro designs DVB-T/T2 network in Azerbaijan
Last year B&B TV Communication, the leading independent TV broadcast operator in Azerbaijan, called a tender for technical support and consulting in DVB-T/T2 digital terrestrial network development. Hannu Pro was honoured to take part in this tender, successfully competing with several strong contenders - among them most notable are Austrian ORF and French TDF. The final agreement with B&B TV Communication envisages that until the end of 2013, when project is completed, Hannu Pro will provide all services necessary for successful DVB-T/T2 rollout including network planning, site surveys, solution design, RFP preparation and evaluation, network deployment supervising and others. Agreement covers DVB-T/T2 introduction in Azerbaijan, serving most of its 9 million population. On New Years Eve Hannu Pro started development of the first DVB-T/T2 test head-end station to provide MPEG4 signal transmission in Nakhichevan Autonomous Republic. These tests will allow also collecting important data for further DVB-T/T2 network planning. B&B TV Communication plans to launch commercial DVB-T/T2 transmission in Nakhichevan Autonomous Republic later this year. Starting from 2012 Azerbaijan government plans to start switchover from old analogue TV signal transmission to digital broadcasting. In 2012 Azerbaijan is also hosting popular Eurovision Song contest.
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Broadcasters in Baltics and Finland are opting for AVIWest’s wireless video transmission solution
Screenshot from ERR's live coverage of presidential Elections in Finland using AVIWest's IBIS system
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After successful tests in Riga, Tallinn and Helsinki at end of 2011, Hannu Pro has already delivered several AVIWest IBIS video transmission systems to its customers in Baltics and Finland, including Estonian Public Broadcasting and Tallinna TV in Estonia and Nelonen Media, the second largest private broadcaster in Finland. All of them evaluated alternatives before choosing AVIWest as the most complete and efficient solution. The total market value of these recent deals exceeds EUR 75 000.
IBIS video transmission system consists of a transmitter called DMNG (Digital Mobile News Gathering) and a receiving server IBIS Studio. System is capable of bonding any type of mobile Internet carrier networks to form stable signal providing sufficient bandwidth for broadcast quality video transmission (up to HD). Carriers can be literally any type of large distance mobile data communication networks including 3G, 4G, CDMA, Wimax, but also broadband (wireless or Ethernet). Video is compressed using proprietary video compression technology, which is developed based on H.264 standard. It allows adaptive bit-rate and copes well with changing bandwidth of mobile networks. In areas with limited or no coverage the Store-and-forward feature can be used. The DMNG is lightweight and compact so it can be mounted directly on the camera. It accepts (HD)SDI with embedded audio or composite video with analogue stereo pair. Servers are available in several configurations. All of them are capable of recording the transmission, while outputting (HD)SDI for play-out. IBIS also features an intercom for direct talkback. For further details and tests please contact Hannu Pro local specialist.
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LNK steps into HD broadcasting
LNK, the largest independent Lithuanian TV company, is pioneering again. The final of dance show series Kvieciu Sokti, transmitted on December 31, 2011, was the first nationwide HD broadcast of a home-grown Lithuanian show. This broadcast was partly possible also thanks to determined LNK investment strategy developing their business with transition to HD broadcasting in mind. Last year LNK opted for a number of fully equipped Grass Valley LDK 3000 HD TV broadcast cameras. Earlier Hannu Pro supplied also a complete HD ready turnkey solution for content production and play-out. Lithuanian Radio and Television Centre (LRTC) transmitted the show in HD over local DVB-T network. The programme was not scrambled and was accessible to viewers across the country, free of charge. Ricardas Kazlauskas, technical director of LNK, explained: "It was a New Year’s gift to our loyal television audience. While enjoying the broadcast view, which was superior to the old one, they had a chance to assess future digital terrestrial television. And we tested and assessed our possibilities. This experience is important because we are considering when we will be able to broadcast the entire LNK in HD".
»»» read also complete TVB Europe news story
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PBK upgrades its play-out system
In August PBK (The First Baltic Channel) and Hannu Pro agreed on PBK's play-out system upgrade to extend its capabilities. During following months Hannu Pro supplied an upgrade option for Grass Valley Concerto router, what increased total number of routable SDI channels from 64x64 to 96x96; two Grass Valley Prelude control panels adding extensive control functionality for Concerto router directly from studio control room; a Guntermann & Drunck CATCenter NEO8 VGA matrix switch with unidirectional PC speaker audio expansion option supporting 8 users and 32 PCs; complete Thecus network area storage system (NAS) including 32TB file server; and an Actus Digital Actus View broadcast compliance recording system to monitor and record up to 4 SDI channels with embedded audio. Also supplied were a Panasonic video and audio mixer AG-HMX100EJ with multi-viewer and 3D effects functionality; number of professional LCD monitors and an IRD unit for Satellite signal reception. With its market value exceeding EUR 70 000 this upgrade project is part of PBK strategy for continuous investment in play-out systems modernisation to support flawless broadcasting to all three Baltic States.
»»» screenshot: TV channel rating view in Actus View
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Hannu Pro continues to supply professional production equipment
While implementing large scale broadcast projects in Latvia and other regions, Hannu Pro activities also include cooperation with smaller local companies. Starting the autumn season Hannu Pro salon shop supplied production and editing equipment to several broadcasters and production houses. During September alone the sales of Hannu Pro salon shop exceeded EUR 40 000. Apple Mac Pro based video editing solutions were supplied to Valmiera regional television and to FDT agency; A Panasonic HPX371EJ camera, equipped with P2 media, Cartoni tripod and other accessories was supplied to LNT to support launch of new broadcasting season. Complete production set supplied also to Alberts College. During October complete HP and Edius 6 Storm 3G based video editing solution supporting full video inputs and outputs range was supplied to Juris Podnieks production house. To expand news production resources, Lietuvos Rytas received appropriately equipped Panasonic AG-HPX250EJ camera, which was announced at NAB2011 convention. A Cartoni tripod, SWIT batteries and lights, Beyerdinamic microphones and Camrade accessories were also included.
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Grass Valley announces new K2 Edge automated, multichannel, integrated (channel in a box) playout solution
In October Grass Valley announced an extension of the K2 media server family with K2 Edge, the centerpiece of Grass Valley's overall integrated playout solution. Housed in a compact 1 RU chassis, K2 Edge is a robust and proven Linux-based system with a purpose-built, high availability architecture for mission-critical 24/7 playout applications. The K2 Edge range is available in three levels of capability: K2 Edge Express, for entry level channels with minimal graphics needs; K2 Edge Pro, for main-line channels with more sophisticated graphics such as picture-in-picture; and K2 Edge Elite systems, which offer switching for up to four HD sources and multichannel 2D and 3D graphics complete with DVE moves including credit squeeze.
Each K2 Edge system includes features originally developed by PubliTronic - K2 TX/MAM asset management system, with central database and Cobalt playout automation software, which manages all on-air events, and for increased reliability, runs completely independent from the database. Edge also includes Channel Composer software - a solution for creating the on-air look of a channel, which manages the import and animation of 2D and 3D graphics, creates animations, and links graphics templates to data sources for real time on-air presentation.
With the introduction of the K2 Edge server, acquisition of PubliTronic offers immediate benefits to Grass Valley customers and at the same time Grass Valley K2 media server family is still the first choice for live production, news, and traditional play-to-air. K2 Edge is focused on integrated playout where all the needed functions — media playout, channel graphics, asset management, and automation — are included in one tightly integrated system. K2 Summit will continue to provide the basis for content ingest, preparation, and archiving, as well as playout for customers using a traditional approach for managing their playout. K2 Summit and K2 Solo will continue as production servers for live events (including slow-motion), news, and entertainment programming.
»»» complete press release is available on Grass Valley web site
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Hannu Pro enrols in Thomson Video Networks VAR program
On IBC2011 forum, which took place in Amsterdam at the beginning of September, Thomson Video Networks announced that long-term business partner Hannu Pro has now become a Value Added Reseller (VAR), distributing and supporting the entire Thomson Video Networks product line in the Baltic States, and in selected Eastern Europe countries. Thomson Video Networks’ new VAR program is designed for experienced head-end distributors who aim to develop their integration and customer services. The VAR acts as a qualified integrator and the first level of support. "During our cooperation in many successful projects, Hannu Pro has demonstrated a high degree of expertise and a strong commitment to excellent customer service," said Eric Louvet, vice president of worldwide sales and services for Thomson Video Networks. "This new step in partnership is a natural development of our positive relationship to date, and as an organization, Hannu Pro shares so many of the values needed for our VAR program." Thomson Video Networks provides broadcasters with a premium viewing experience across all networks, to all devices. For more than fifteen years, the company has driven the digital television revolution forward with its advanced compression and content delivery platforms. The award-winning Thomson product range is used by the world’s major broadcasters and prized for the superior video and audio quality it delivers to all platforms, from large 3D screens to handheld mobile TV devices.
»»» complete press release is available on Thomson Video Networks web site
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Aviwest wireless video transmission technologies being tested in Latvia
IBIS DMNG wireless video transmission over 3G/4G technology developed by Aviwest is undergoing first tests in Latvia. In the middle of September Aviwest representative visited Riga and in cooperation with Aviwest local partner - Hannu Pro launched first system tests. IBIS DMNG (Digital Mobile News Gathering) is the world's first pocketsize mobile solution for newsgathering, supporting 3G and 4G network infrastructure or alternatively, when these networks are unavailable, video stream can be delivered through traditional Ethernet and WiFi networks or BGAN satellite system. This allows a quality signal transmission form outdoor or indoor events directly to the broadcast facility in cost effective way without using complex satellite transmission stations and OB VAN systems. Aviwest system includes an IBIS DMNG transmitter unit and an IBIS Studio receiver-decoder and can be used for live recording, as well as live broadcasting on TV or Internet. Transmitter can be easily attached to any broadcast camera with HD/SD SDI out with embedded audio or professional camera with composite video and analogue audio outputs allowing up to 6Mbps and 1080i resolution CRB or VRB stream.
»»» for additional information about Aviwest wireless video transmission tests, please contact Hannu Pro
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Lattelecom upgrades IP TV system providing additional HD channels
In June Lattlecom, leading telecommunications operator in Latvia, and Hannu Pro agreed on broadcast system delivery for Lattelecom's IP TV system upgrade. In Jule Hannu Pro supplied contracted equipment: a dual Thomson Video Networks RD5000 MPEG4 SD/HD receiver complete with SDI, ASI and AES options; several Thomson Video Networks DBD 4437 MPEG-2 SD IP decoders; two Thomson Video Networks ViBE EM3000 MPEG-4 HD encoders with licence for AAC/HE-AAC encoding; as well as Evertz SDI and ASI converters to support optical connection between Lattelecom's structural units located in different places. Hannu Pro service centre personnel installed all equipment and did required cabling. Thus this is a second project this year, where Hannu Pro service centre specialists provided network infrastructure installations for Lattelecom.
»»» for information about network installation services provided by Hannu Pro contact Hannu Pro head office
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Hannu Pro develops video system for Klaipeda arena
Late spring Lithuanian company Juvara and Hannu Pro agreed on video system development for new sports arena in Klaipeda. Recently finished arena is located in the centre of city and constructed to accommodate basketball sports games for up to 5500 spectators and large entertainment events for up to 7500 visitors. To meet Juvara and Klaipeda arena requirements Hannu Pro developed allocation project for stationary cameras and the control room, which also hosts editing facility, as well as supplied all required equipment and installed cables and video network infrastructure. Video system of Klaipeda arena developed by Hannu Pro is based on: 4 Panasonic cameras providing SDI video with embedded audio; Cartoni tripods; a camera control unit AW-RP655; Grass Valley equipment - an Indigo mixer, a 2+1 channel video server (IDDR2 T2) and an Edius 6 video editing workstation; an Apantac Tahoma multiviewer system; 42" JVC monitors; as well as graphics system to provide rich graphics and dynamic titles. Additional studio equipment supplied includes: a Riedel Performer CR-2 Master Station intercom system; Soundcraft audio mixer and Yamaha MSP-3 monitors; and other equipment. Project is designed to support engagement of additional OB VAN as required when large events are held, and was implemented by Hannu Pro Vilnius and Hannu Pro Riga engineers team.
»»» additional information about video systems development for Klaipeda sports arena - photo report
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Lithuanian broadcaster LNK invests in new broadcast and ENG cameras
In June procurement organized by LNK (Lithuanian independent television) for purchase of new broadcast cameras ended with Hannu Pro victory. Hannu Pro proposal includes supply of 5 Grass Valley LDK 3000 HD TV broadcast cameras with integrated HD Wideband Triax support and equipment for automated control: a base station supporting HD and SD HQ outputs; master control panels (MCP) for all five cameras; and 7" HD LCD view finders supporting camera control functions such as menu control, focus assist, colour balance correction (independently from camera colour balance) and others. Also included for use on studio crane is a Grass Valley DMC 1000 multi-format tape-less camera, which, thanks to SD/HD outputs, REF and OCP/MCP support, can be effectively integrated into LNK studio setup. Market value of this project reaches EUR 300 000. This latest investment, which will provide high quality 16:9 SD and HD (in near future) programme production, is natural complement to the investment made in 2006 when LNK purchased six LDK 400 SD broadcast cameras for its production studio.
Simultaneously with broadcast camera procurement, Hannu Pro took part and won another LNK procurement to supply four ENG (electronic news gathering) cameras for LNK news department. Hannu Pro will supply two Panasonic AG HPX371EJ and two AG-HPX171EJ P2 series tape-less technology cameras, equipped with Fujinon lenses including and an additional Fujinon ZA17x7.6BRM-M QuickZoom technology HD lens. Market value of this second project reaches EUR 45 000. After completion of both projects LNK will be able to launch new broadcasting season with one of most sophisticated camera park in Baltic States.
»»» a photo report about LNK studio upgrade project
»»» read official Grass Valley press release
»»» read also complete TVB Europe news story here
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Hannu Pro develops Bulgarian satellite up-link head-end
At the end of 2010 a tender, called by Bulgarian National Unit Radio and TV Systems (NURTS) for the rights to develop satellite up-link head-end station, closed. Proposal submitted by Hannu Pro was acknowledged as most competitive. Developing this sophisticated project Hannu Pro engineers had to consider the fact that satellite up-link station comprises of two separate parts located in different areas of Bulgarian capital Sofia - central Sofia Broadcast station and Broadcast station in Plana, what required completely redundant and independent communication system. Solution developed by Hannu Pro for Sofia central station includes: a 64x64 SDI and AES/EBU Grass Valley Concerto router; 10 Thomson Video Networks dual MPEG2/MPEG4 and ACC encoders EM2002 initially connected in 16+2 operating mode; Cisco IP signal switchers; two parallel 1+1 redundant Thomson Video Networks NetProcessor 9030 multiplexers to form two DVB-S2 streams for both IP and ASI transmission to broadcast station in Plana, as well as Thomson Video Networks NetProcessor 9010 network adapter to form parallel ASI stream for redundant SDH transmission. IRdeto conditional access integration and encoding is also carried out in central broadcast station. Broadcast station in Plana hosts systems for IP commutation and separate 1+1 redundant Thomson Video Networks NetProcessor 9010 network adapters with Input Signal Redundancy option. All satellite broadcast systems in both Sofia central and Plana stations are monitored and managed from 1+1 redundant central server by Thomson Video Networks XMS/XMU network management system (NMS). For IP and ASI signal monitoring Bridge Technologies systems are used. Control of video signals is carried out by Wohler equipment. Initially Bulgarian satellite broadcast station served 16 TV channels, but in near future channel number will be expanded to 20+4 channels supporting both VRB and CRB streams.
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TV Tallinn launches first HD broadcasts in Baltic States
Following the initial broadcasting tests in May 2010, Tallinn city authority continued development of it's own TV (Tallinna TV) and called a tender for complete HD TV system (Panasonic P2 and JVC tape-less ENG cameras, TV studio, production facilities, and play-out) to ensure first HD transmissions in early 2011. After assessing tender results, the proposal submitted by Hannu Pro Tallinn was confirmed as the most effective. At the end of 2010 Hannu Pro started delivery of the key equipment. Supplied was a Grass Valley Indigo HD mixer, Publitronic HD play-out server with advanced broadcast graphics support, Orad Morpho high-definition 3D broadcast graphics solution, Metus media asset management software, Grass Valley 32x32 HD SDI router, Cartoni camera support systems and other equipment. During the quarter 1st, 2011 Hannu Pro also supplied Intercom solution and equipment for HD mobile studio. With the prospects focusing on city news, talk shows and direct broadcasts from city council, Tallinna TV started new concept of television finding it's own niche among the existing channels. It is also planned to cover events of Tallinn 2011 - European Capital of Culture.
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Levira invests in Actus HD monitoring system
At the end of 2010 Levira - Play-out and multimedia service provider based in Estonia - organized procurement for HD monitoring system. Levira was expanding its play-out centre and planning to start HD play-out to meet the market needs. That kind of service also requires advanced compliance recording. Hannu Pro Tallinn was entitled to supply compliance-recording server for two HD channels and during January 2011 all required equipment and software were delivered and installed. Solution provided by Hannu Pro is based on Actus View video and audio recording platform, which supports recording of different types of video feed, including several HD-SDI feeds with multiple DVB subtitles and audio tracks – latter being a unique feature, essential in multilingual broadcast environment. The platform is expandable, 1080p capable and therefore future-proof. Levira is looking forward to expand its new Actus later in 2011.
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Hannu Pro turnover shows 45% growth in 2010
At the beginning of 2011 Hannu Pro summarized results of 2010. Total Hannu Pro turnover has grown considerably by 45% and scored new record of EUR 9.5 million. The increase in sales contributed to the improvement of customer relations and provision of full technical service support for clients in the Baltic States, what was highly welcomed by regular customers, as well as active development of new broadcast projects for Bulgaria telecommunications market. Most of total sales number was generated by projects and solutions based on TV systems, encoders, routers and transmitters provided by Grass Valley/Thomson Video Networks/Thomson Broadcast, as well as Panasonic cameras.
During 2010 Hannu Pro supplied video equipment, software and production solutions to many new corporate and individual customers. Most notable of them are Red Dot Media (TV programme Neka personiga), Riga Teacher Training and Educational Management Academy, hockey club Riga Dinamo, Council of Madona district, Video MIX. Sales of semi-professional solutions in last six month of 2010 reached nearly EUR 100 000. Supplied systems include Apple iMac and Mac Pro systems bundled with FinalCut Pro and individual Grass Valley Edius video editing systems, Black Magic Design and Grass Valley video editing and signal input/output equipment, semi-professional and professional camcorders, steadicam systems, production accessories and other video equipment.
Customers now are offered to purchase products, located in Hannu Pro Riga stock, directly from online shop, as well as order products available at Hannu Pro partner stocks without leaving their offices.
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Hannu Pro provides expansion solution for Lattelecom WebTV system
To complement Lattelecom's WebTV solution and provide extra capacity for its IPTV and DVB-T head-end Hannu Pro and Lattelecom agreed on delivery of new powerful router and additional equipment. At the end of 2010 Hannu Pro supplied to Lattelecom a Grass Valley Concerto 128x128 SD/HD router with serial digital video signal expansion, Grass Valley Prelude router management software, hardware control panel and remote control software licence, as well as Evertz SDI/ASI optical-electrical signal conversion equipment, complementing Lattelecom's existing signal conversion solution. Also supplied was an effective Grass Valley Edius 6 video editing system for promotional and advertising video jingles production. Hannu Pro service personnel installed supplied equipment and configured it to ensure successful system launch. Market value of supplied equipment is nearly EUR 60 000.
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Estonian ERR and Lithuanian LNK introducing wireless intercom systems
Rounding up 2010, Hannu Pro supplied Riedel wireless intercom systems to Estonian Public Broadcasting (ERR) and Lithuanian Independent TV - both ranking among the leading TV broadcasters in the Baltic States. Provided wireless intercom solutions are based on Riedel Acrobat Digital Wireless Intercom system and allow expanding functionality of ERR's existing Riedel Artist wired intercom system installed in HD OB Van, as well as LNK's existing third party wired intercommunications system. Riedel Acrobat Digital Wireless Intercom system provides high quality full-duplex VoIP (voice over internet protocol) communications utilizing DECT (Digital Enhanced Cordless Telecommunications) technologies. Acrobat system comprises of base station (Acrobat Cell Controller) and several mobile stations (Acrobat Wireless Beltpacks), and, thanks to innovative dynamic frequency and channel allocation technology, it removes previous limits of the number of beltpacks in a DECT-based system.
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Hannu Pro shares the technology to support Raimonds Pauls live show
Celebrating his 75 at the mid January Maestro Raimonds Pauls, Latvian prime composer, preformed live at Arena Riga. To capture this special evening spirit for those who were not able to attend this marvellous live show, Hannu Pro provided Gass Valley K2 Summit 8 channel video server system supporting HD recording to meet the highest quality standards. Live show was filmed utilising resources of Estonian state television's (ERR) IRIS HD OB Van, which is most advanced available in Baltic States. Eight 8 of 16 available state-of-the-art Grass Valley LDK 8000 Elite series cameras captured ongoing events through Grass Valley Kayah HD video mixer and signal was recorded on ChannelFlex enabled Grass Valley K2 Summit server - eight simultaneous 100Mbps 1080i AVC-Intra 10bit (4:2:2) video streams. Such high quality of recorded signal allowing further non-destructive synchronous multi-camera video editing while preserving image clarity and detail, what enables sharing complete spectrum of nuances of this very special event.
Hannu Pro joins everyone greeting the Maestro!
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Hannu Pro to Distribute Bridge Technologies Monitoring Solutions in Baltic States
Bridge Technologies has announced a partnership with leading Baltic-states system integrator Hannu Pro. Based in Riga, Latvia, Hannu Pro represents more than 50 of the world’s leading broadcast equipment and software manufacturers, and the company’s portfolio now includes the VideoBRIDGE line of digital media monitoring products. VideoBRIDGE is the most comprehensive advanced headend-to-set-top-box monitoring solution available to broadcasters, telcos, and network operators. The award-winning VideoBRIDGE series of probes offers an innovative approach to the monitoring and analysis of converging services employing stream-based IP packets. Compatible with all major stream-based industrial standards such as MPEG-2, H.264/AVC, DVB/ATSC, and ETSI TR 101 290, the VideoBRIDGE series offers a complete end-to-end system for the continuous quality assurance of a network from satellite to set-top box. With full support of the innovative MediaWindow (patented), the VideoBRIDGE series is at the forefront of digital TV measurement and monitoring technologies.
»»» complete press release is available from Bridge Technologies web site
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KTS invests in Grass Valley Super SloMo system
At the end of November Hannu Pro and KTS (Kauno televizijos servisas) - the leading Lithuanian outdoor broadcasting service provider - signed a contract to supply complete Grass Valley Super SloMo high definition system. Market value of this deal reaches EUR 300 000. The project is based on Grass Valley 2010 Technical & Engineering Emmy award winning LDK 8300 HD Live Super SloMo camera system equipped with fibre channel bases station; 8 channel K2 Summit server system equipped with Dyno control system; as well as ChannelFlex and AVC-Intra 10bit 4:2:2 expansion options. Grass Valley LDK 8300 Super SloMo camera offers a number of unique features, such as: the ability to operate at 1x, 2x, 3x (selectable) speeds; native 1080i and 720p image acquisition; and AnyLight flicker reduction technology, providing uncompromised picture quality under all circumstances. Grass Valley K2 Dyno is powerful and cost-effective replay system, which offers multi-channel high definition recording and play-out and, when teamed with LDK Super SloMo cameras, provides complete solution for field or in-studio production of sports events and other dynamic programmes.
»»» photo report - LDK 8300 camera and Dyno replay system tests and personnel training
»»» additionally check Grass Valley videos: Dyno tutorial and Dorna sports
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Christian church Prieka Vests invests in television equipment upgrade
Continuing successful cooperation in video production equipment provision, in September Hannu Pro concluded delivery of new video production equipment to Christian church Prieka Vests. This Christian organization has got three new professional tape-less technology Sony XDCAM series PMW-EX3 camcorders, which will be used for synchronous recording of churches indoor and outdoor services and events, as well as in TV programme production. All three camcorders are equipped with conforming high quality accessories: Cartoni tripods, Pag batteries, Camrade bags and Sennheiser microphones. Studio equipment list includes an Apantac multiviewer system, a 42" JVC monitor and a special JVC camera lens control system. Also supplied is MovieTech G-Force Pro CN mobile camera support system (steadicam), which is crucial in capturing smooth dynamic videos and is great complement when church events are filmed. The market value of supplied equipment reaches EUR 50 000.
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IBC 2010 - a short review
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On September 14, IBC - the annual International Broadcasting Convention - closed in Amsterdam. As usual, Hannu Pro team attended this leading European TV and broadcast technology forum in nearly complete line-up to prepare for upcoming challenges when introducing new advanced TV and broadcast systems for Baltic TV companies and communications providers as well as implementing DVB-T broadcasting projects in Latvia, Bulgaria and other regions. Hannu Pro managers have summed up some most essential IBC 2010 product news from Hannu Pro partners.
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Grass Valley has developed several new innovative solutions such as Fusion, which ensures the integration of Grass Vallay broadcast products (switchers, servers, cameras, routers and other) allowing to control LDK camera from the Kayenne video production switcher for example; LDK-8300 HD Super Slomo camera, which is the only one capable of delivering 1080p 50/60 3Gbps HD signal natively, now allows capturing highest quality slow motion HD images in 3D; K2 family is complemented with ClipStore, what allows to store more than 10 hours of media content for instant access without caching; Channel Flex - K2 Solo and Summit upgrade, which allows doubling of server channels so that 4 channel K2 allows up to 8 streams or 2 channel Super Slomo recording and one channel play-out at the same time; Edius V6 with more than 100 new features including digital SLR camera formats and Storm 3G Elite input/output solution; and many others |
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Panasonic - new cameras: AG-AF101 featuring interchangeable lens designed with the appeal to movie enthusiasts, AG-HMC81, AJ-HPX3100 and AG-HPX371 for professional production |
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Orad - new version of Maestro TV broadcast graphic system; WorldMapper - an intuitive, up to date, maps visualization tool for Bing maps database; and Stereo3D - three-dimensional virtual studio for stereo programme production |
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Lawo - Ravenna a technology for the for real-time distribution of audio and other media content in IP-based network environments, and Sapphire newest member of Lawo’s audio console family for radio and TV |
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Riedel - technical solution for Red Bull Air Race, which received IBC2010 innovation award, as well as Mediornet and Intercom system improvements |
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»»» read more about Grass Valley IBC 2010 here
»»» a video report from Grass Valley IBC 2010 stand
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LNT upgrades television equipment resources
In August Hannu Pro and LNT - Latvian independent television - agreed on new television and broadcast equipment upgrade. Project includes production equipment and accessories, as well as components for digital broadcasting workflow optimization. Supplied for news and programme production are PAG batteries, chargers, and camera lights; Sennheiser microphones; Panasonic P2 card readers and mobile editing station AJ-HPM200. Digital broadcasting workflow is improved with the following upgrades: an MPEG 2 recording expansion is added to K2 Summit server, to provide two channel recording in LongGOP, I-Frame, IMX and other formats; a module for dual-channel SD DVE effect support is added to Maestro multi-channel master controller. Also supplied are several GeckoFlex signal processing and synchronization systems; Ericsson flagship modular IRD units RX8200 DVB-S2 to provide MPEG 2 and MPEG 4 satellite signal decoding to ASI/SDI streams; as well as a 2TB Thecus NAS storage system fully integrated in local data network. Market value of all equipment to be delivered reaches nearly EUR 70 000.
»»» additional information about LNT digital playout system introduction is available here
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Hannu Pro Bulgaria wins another Bulgarian DVB-T licence to provide new public broadcast network
At the end of August at official ceremony Hannu Pro Bulgaria received the license for 6-th Bulgarian DVB-T broadcast network (multiplex) to provide terrestrial broadcasting of National public TV and radio. Hannu Pro Bulgaria won the public TV and radio broadcasting licence after successful participation in an international tender called by Communications Regulation Commission (CRC) of Bulgaria. According to the licence, starting from the second quarter of 2010, Hannu Pro Bulgaria will provide broadcast services for four digital TV and four digital radio channels in all territory of Bulgaria. It is projected that in seven regions broadcasting will be launched at the end of 2010. Winning the 6-th Bulgarian DVB-T network licence Hannu Pro Bulgaria has acquired the rights to service four of total six Bulgarian digital terrestrial multiplexes and has become the major digital TV operator in this European Union country with the population of over 7.5 million.
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LTV launches TV channel monitoring system
To ensure complete monitoring and channel rating analysis for public TV channels at the beginning of 2010 Latvian State television called video and audio signal monitoring and rating visualization system purchase and integration tender. After careful evaluation of submissions LTV's purchasing commission opted for solution proposed by Hannu Pro, which is based on Actus monitoring software and includes four View (LogIt) and four Rating Analyzer (Insight) modules, Adobe Media streaming server and TNS rating data integration, as well as powerful workstation and equipment for media capturing. Newly installed system provides uninterrupted four TV channel logging (LTV1, TV7, LNT and TV3) and TNS programme rating data integration for complete rating visualization. Project is valued at EUR 17 000.
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Latvian DVB-T head-end upgrade will allow expanding Lattelecom services with additional TV channels
At the end of April Hannu Pro and Lattelecom agreed on next digital terrestrial system upgrade. Later, during this summer Hannu Pro will supply Grass Valley EM1000 and EM2000 ViBE series MPEG4 SD encoders to provide high quality encoding of 20 DVB-T VBR (variable bitrate) and 20 IPTV CBR (constant bitrate) streams, as well as two EM3000 encoders to provide encoding of two additional HD MPEG4 VBR streams. Equipment required for broadcasting of two additional multiplexes (DVB-T networks) in Riga city and surrounding area will be also supplied and installed at Latvian DVB-T head-end station. This includes: two fully redundant Grass Valley NetProcessor 9030 multiplexers; additional upgrade modules for Trinix router; additional network switchers; equipment for monitoring; two next generation 5 kW liquid cooled transmitters, which utilize energy saving Green Power transistors; Spinner combiner; and appropriate IRDs for satellite signal reception and decoding. This DVB-T network upgrade will reinforce Lattelecom position offering even more channels in the Riga area, which is the most active market segment. Latvian DVB-T head-end system is designed taking into account the further expansion to maximum of 12 multiplexes (broadcast networks). The market value of current expansion project exceeds EUR 1 000 000.
»»» Latvian DVB-T head-end upgrade project layout
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TEO complements its Technicolor SmartVision VOD system and upgrades IPTV services
In April TEO, the largest Lithuanian telecommunication operator finished the introduction of new Yesterday TV VOD system. This is the fourth project accomplished in close cooperation with Technicolor under the long-term agreement between Hannu Pro and TEO. The number of current licences of supplied Yesterday TV VOD support more than 1200 simultaneous concurrent play-out streams as well as continuous recording of 76 SD channels at 4.5 mbps and 4 HD channels at 8 mbps. This allows for nearly 60 000 TEO IPTV subscribers to watch their favourite TV programmes and shows of previous seven days at the time which is most convenient for customer.
Technically Yesterday TV system is based on fully redundant (1+1) SmartVision server and the common shared 30TB fibre channel SAN (storage area network) system. New fully redundant (1+1) SmartVision CDN management system is also included in the project and replaces the Cluster Manager - previous TEO VOD system management solution. New SmartVision CDN system provides an integration of TEOs own middleware and SmartVision platform, as well as the following features: Geolocalization, what makes sure that customers are served in priority by the POP they are attached to; Bandwidth management; Hotfolder for automated content distribution over network; Content check to make sure that all required content is distributed correctly; and Fail-over checking and managing system errors.
This recent TEO VOD upgrade project is valued at EUR 370 000.
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Hannu Pro continues to grow and receives Grass Valley Platinum Level Award
NAB 2010 - world's leading broadcasters forum - was held in mid-April in Las Vegas this year and Hannu Pro was honoured again, receiving the proof of its knowledge and growth capabilities. At the annual NAB Grass Valley meeting the world's leading TV and broadcast equipment manufacturer announced the most successful partners and Hannu Pro repeatedly was near the top of the list. Hannu Pro received Platinum Level Valued Partner Award 2009 for Outstanding Sales Performance. Only 8 companies from more than 300 representing Grass Valley all over the world received this highest acknoledgement. Grass Valley representatives: Jeff Rosica - Senior Vice President, Jan Looijmans - Vice president Sales EMEA, Pascal Dememe - Sales Manager Eastern Europe took part at the awarding when Kalvis Baumanis - Hannu Pro General Manager received the award.
»»» further reading: Grass Valley Honors Resellers in Europe, Middle East, and Africa for Superior Sales and Customer Service Achievements
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An advanced intercommunication system supplied to Estonian State Puppet and Youth Theatre
In March Hannu Pro Tallinn supplied an advanced Riedel intercommunication system to Estonian State Puppet and Youth Theatre (Nukuteater). Nukuteater has three stages: main - 620 seats, oval - 80 seats and Blackbox - 200 seats. The Nukutheater building was renovated recently and the demand for an appropriate intercommunication system arose to meet safety standards and provide flexible management. Nukutheater opted for the Riedel system proposed by Hannu Pro Tallinn as the best solution for its requirements. Solution supplied by Hannu Pro is based on Riedel Performer 32 32x32 digital intercom matrix, which supports 16 analogue and 16 digital communication channels. It also includes 11 control panel units, located at different premises and 5 mobile wireless kits, to provide in-house public announcements and personnel/backstage communication. Unique DECT (Digital Enhanced Cordless Telecommunications) based Riedel Acrobat wireless solution provides mobility for stage managers, as well as allows using this flexible system for more creative purposes. The market value of provided system reaches EUR 45 000.
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| Latvian DVB-T and IPTV head-end has started broadcasting
At the end of January Hannu Pro accomplished system tests at Latvian DVB-T and IPTV head-end station in Riga and in February the DVB-T and IPTV networks were switched to receive signals from new head-end. With newly developed head-end Lattelecom, Latvian DVB-T operator, now can offer a digital terrestrial and IPTV services at the highest available quality, receiving content from satellite broadcasters and local TV companies and encoding them to MPEG4. More than 70 variable (VRB) and constant (CRB) rate signal streams including four HD (high definition) streams can be formatted for broadcasting using Statmux video encoding technology, what helps to achieve higher image quality even at reduced bit rates. Formatted signal streams now are broadcasted from transmitters located in Riga TV tower and also distributed to LVRTC DVB-T network, what includes 17 regional transmission stations, as well as to Lattelecom interactive TV (IPTV) network and now everyone in Latvia can enjoy substantially better digital TV picture. Riga head-end solution was developed by Hannu Pro and is completely based on Grass Valley technologies. Hannu Pro also supplied all equipment and Hannu Pro service centre engineers are providing all system service.
»»» additional information about Latvian DVB-T head-end project development is available here
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Digital Rapids solutions for video and audio encoding and streaming gain popularity in Baltic
As the media market focuses on digital and interactive services including internet, the demand for solutions to provide automated audiovisual media encoding and streaming is increasing rapidly also in Baltic States. Hannu Pro in cooperation with Digital Rapids offers wide range of encoding-streaming solutions, which can be adopted to satisfy all digital content production needs. During the winter Hannu Pro supplied several Digital Rapids systems to be used for different applications and at different conditions: for analogue content encoding to Silverlight, VC-1 and Windows Media formats and internet streaming (Tevijas sargs); for encoding in RTMP H264 Adobe Flash archiving and streaming (TV Dzintare and Reval Hotel Latvia); for other applications including 3GPP encoding for mobile devices (Lithuanian TEO) and DVD/BlueRay archive to VOD (video on demand) solution (StreamZHD system for Lithuanian company NewVideo). Supplies include DRC-500 encoder boards and software and also the unique TouchStream portable all-in-one portable encoder-server devices to provide full mobility and allow interactive streaming content even at field production. Digital Rapids solutions also gained positive response working at WiMax tests in Lithuania.
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DVB-T is broadcasted to all Latvia now
In Januany LVRTC - Latvian State Radio and TV centre launched digital terrestrial broadcasting (DVB-T) to all Latvia. At the end of January Hannu Pro in cooperation with Grass Valley commissioned 18 facilities fully equipped with all required systems to encode media streams, form broadcast signals (multiplexes) and provide insertion of regional programmes. DVB-T broadcasting in Latvia now is accomplished form LVRTCs regional broadcast centres located in Preili, Daugavpils, Viesite, Rezekne, Valmiera, Kuldiga, Aluksne, Dagda, Mali, Kapteini, Lielauce, Saldus, Embute, Dundaga, Cesvaine, Ventspils, and Riga (head-end station), from where all signals are distributed to regions via SDH network. If required, central station in Riga also can provide redundancy functions encoding free-to-air programmes. Latvian DVB-T network is designed to support five multiplexes. The free and pay-TV content (using Conax conditional access system) is provided by Lattelecom - Latvian terrestrial TV service provider. Currently subscribers can enjoy 5 free and 20 pay-TV channels, form which one broadcasts high definition (HD) content.
»»» detailed information about Latvian DVB-T project development
»»» Grass Valley official press release
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MTG Riga play-out centre prepared for commercial broadcasting
Recently built MTG Viasat play-out centre in Riga soon will launch commercial broadcasts, but until then it provides redundancy functions for some Viasat channels. Large investments are made to develop such a sophisticated broadcast facility. 120 people will be employed at the centre, when it will start serving and broadcasting of all planned channels - more than 32 in total, including TV3, 3+, TV6, Viasat Sport. Hannu Pro service centre engineers in close cooperation with BCE team, which are one of leading European system integrators, provided all furniture installations and communication cable deployment strictly according to the advanced project requirements, as well as limited equipment supplies. Playout centre incorporates several studios and monitoring facilities to provide media ingest, audio voiceovers, additional video editing, single channel control, master control, transmission control, and system administration functions. Also impressive automated Front Porch Digital tape archive system is supplied for media achieving and on demand retrieval.
»»» a photo report about MTG Viasat playout centre project is available here
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| more news (Year 2009) »»» |
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