

Miranda Integrates No-Compromise Graphics Into iTX at NAB 2012
April 16, 2012 07:37 ET
Miranda Integrates No-Compromise Graphics Into iTX at NAB 2012
Powerful rendering now integral to popular playout platform
MONTREAL, QUEBEC--(Marketwire - April 16, 2012) -NAB 2012, Booth N2512 - Miranda Technologies Inc. (TSX:MT), a global provider of integrated solutions for production, playout and delivery systems for television broadcasters and multi-system operators, today announced the addition of two new graphics options into its iTX integrated playout platform for linear and on-demand television. One new option is the integration of Miranda's highly acclaimed Vertigo XG graphics processor, which provides real-time CG, DVE and graphics capabilty directly into the iTx output server. The other newly added option is the deep integration of Adobe® After Effects® rendering, which provides unlimited graphics and text effects while leveraging the industry's most powerful and popular graphics authoring environment.
With these additions, the iTX platform now includes no-compromise capabilities for dynamic and real-time branding graphics, eliminating the need for external graphics devices and making it simpler and less expensive to include rich graphics on a very large number of channels. Equally important is the deep integration of graphics authoring and media management tools into the iTX environment to create a fully automated graphics workflow, which further enhances efficiency and scalability.
For the Vertigo XG integration, Miranda has harnessed the power of its acclaimed Vertigo XG HD/SD graphics processor and embedded it at the heart of the iTX output server to drive any graphic that requires real-time generation, such as those for program junctions, tickers, school closings, social media interaction and many others. The "XG inside" graphics is a software option that installs directly in the 1RU iTX output server, making iTX the densest graphics-enabled channel playout solution available. This option is available for new iTX channels and can be retrofitted on most iTX channels already in the field.
Miranda's chief technology officer, Michel Proulx, said, "The use of compelling graphics for channel branding and programming enhancement is critical, especially as broadcasters are faced with increasing competition for viewers. By enhancing the real-time, data-driven graphics capabilities within the iTX platform, we're giving broadcasters freedom from multiple boxes and multiple processes."
Miranda's integration of Adobe After Effects in iTX allows users to author complex graphics "templates" using the industry standard graphics tool. Once templates have been authored, the ITX system will automatically create instances of graphics using show name, show time and other information from the playlist. If the schedule changes for any reason, the iTX system will automatically re-create the graphic, essentially making the After Effects-based graphics 100% dynamic. As a bonus the iTX system creates proxies of all graphics to allow promo staff to review and approve graphics ahead of air using a standard Web browser. After Effects graphics can be enabled on any iTX channel and the new option is available for new iTX deployments or it can be retrofitted in most iTX channels already in the field.
Proulx added, "Our deep integration and automation of Adobe After Effects is a real game changer for channel branding. Promo departments no longer have to limit the creativity of their promotional materials to accommodate the capabiliies of their branding device. Graphic artists will enjoy the ability to continue using this industry-standard authoring tool they know and love. Engineers who build and maintain the playout system will enjoy the fact they can air graphics that rival the most expensive external system without installing an additional box on every channel. The level of branding improves and everyone is happy, it's the solution our customers have been asking for."
By addressing the need for automated and data driven rich branding, the two new graphics options for iTX enable broadcasters and playout operators to provide rich graphics on any number of channels and further stengthen Miranda's leadership position in the area of integrated playout platforms.
See [ www.miranda.com/NAB2012 ] for more information about Miranda's NAB exhibit and its latest solutions.
About Miranda
Miranda Technologies is a leading worldwide provider of hardware and software solutions for the television broadcast, cable, satellite and IPTV industry. Its solutions span the full breadth of television operations, including production, playout, and delivery. With a wealth of experience in delivering IT-based and traditional television systems, Miranda is uniquely positioned to help customers enhance their facilities, while generating additional revenue, reducing costs and streamlining operations. For over 22 years, Miranda's growth has been driven by continuous innovation, along with close customer partnerships focused on helping them achieve their business objectives. To deliver this support, Miranda employs 700 people globally, in both developed and emerging markets. Miranda's head office is located in Montreal, and it has regional facilities in the United States, the United Kingdom, France, the United Arab Emirates, Japan, Malaysia, Singapore, Hong Kong and mainland China. A public company since December 2005, Miranda's shares (TSX:MT) are traded on the Toronto Stock Exchange. More information on the Company can be found at [ www.miranda.com ]
Adobe, After Effects, are either registered trademarks or trademarks of Adobe Systems Incorporated in the United States and/or other countries.