Simplicity

ChannelPort reduces the complexity of broadcast workflows by merging multiple capabilities onto a single component, including:

• Clip playout
• Branding and regulatory marks
• Frame-accurate cut switching between live inputs and prerecorded clips
• Voice-over recording
• Emergency Alert System (EAS) support
• Clip and graphics preview tools

This intelligent function integration not only enables faster deployment of new playout services, it simplifies day-to-day operations by allowing processes to be controlled from a single interface. Plug-and-play compatibility with Spectrum MediaDirector^™, MediaCenter and MediaDeck 7000 components offers additional advantages: It allows ChannelPort to be installed into existing Spectrum systems at any time — and scale out as requirements evolve. ChannelPort modules may even be installed directly into MediaPort^™ 7000 or MediaDeck 7000 chassis to conserve rack space and further ease system installation.

Flexibility

As the newest member of the Spectrum family, ChannelPort exemplifies Harmonic’s open approach to production and playout by employing industry-standard media wrappers (including QuickTime and MXF) and networking protocols (including FTP, AFP and CIFS) to enable direct access to content by any file-based media application. These features give users the freedom to choose from the widest range of best-of-breed applications to provide an end-to-end solution.

Channel branding on ChannelPort makes use of standard tools such as Adobe^® Creative Suite^® and Flash^® Professional. These familiar applications allow graphic designers to begin developing unique on-air looks without having to learn new tools — and also help to keep per-seat licensing costs to a minimum.

Reliability

ChannelPort is built for the trusted Spectrum production and playout platform. Because Spectrum server components operate independently, the system offers maximum reliability and fault tolerance. Component failures are contained and don’t affect operation of other parts of the system, improving overall availability. If replacement is needed, components can be removed and installed while the rest of the system remains operational.

Performance

ChannelPort’s impressive performance includes high-density playout of two SD/HD channels per module — four channels per RU, twice as much as the closest competitor — and low power consumption of just 100 W per channel. The ability to migrate branding and switching on top of this high-performance platform eliminates the need to purchase the additional infrastructure previously required to link dedicated devices for these functions. The bottom line is that CAPEX and OPEX are reduced as opportunities to generate higher revenue are increased.

Configuration Options

The modular ChannelPort can be configured with multiple Spectrum components to meet a variety of workflow requirements:

• ChannelPort + MediaDeck 7000
  Adds up to four channels of branded playout to the MediaDeck 7000 integrated media server
• ChannelPort + MediaCenter
  Adds four to 12 channels of branded playout to the MediaCenter system controller with integrated storage
• ChannelPort + Spectrum
  Adds up to 96 channels of branded playout to a fully configured Spectrum media server system

ChannelPort can also co-exist with any MediaPort 7000 I/O chassis, and can be freely mixed with MediaPort 5000 products in existing Spectrum deployments.