Announces Contract With Public Broadcasting Service
posted on
Jan 04, 2010 11:18PM
Broadband multicasting via satellite.
OTTAWA, ONTARIO--(Marketwire - Jan. 4, 2010) -
Attn: Business/High-Tech Editors
International Datacasting Corporation, (TSX:IDC) a global leader in the field of advanced video distribution networks, announced today that it has finalized a contract with the Public Broadcasting Service (PBS) for its Next Generation Interconnection System (NGIS). The contract is for a video distribution infrastructure that includes DVB-S2/IP satellite transmission equipment as well as dual redundant advanced satellite receivers with custom expanded storage capabilities for PBS' approximately 180 Public TV licensees.
IDC is providing the File Transfer System (FTS)-the backbone of the new PBS distribution network. The FTS will distribute high quality HD video programming in an innovative new file-based workflow. IDC will also provide ongoing consulting services and form part of the ongoing team of partners working with PBS on the design and integration of the system. The FTS will interface seamlessly with other NGIS sub-systems to enhance efficiency and ease-of-use for the end user station.
IDC had previously been working under an MOU with PBS while the overall NGIS design was reviewed and finalized. The project is now in an alpha testing phase and is expected to begin beta testing early this year. Full rollout will take place over the next 18 months.
"The NGIS represents a tremendous step forward in the way we serve the users of the Public TV Interconnection System, combining increased efficiency with improved functionality, commented Jerry Butler, PBS NGIS Senior Director. "Quality, reliability, and long-term partnership are key features that led us to choose IDC for this critical component of the project. They have been a valuable asset to our project team in the detailed process of finalizing the system design and requirements.
Ron Clifton, IDC's President and CEO added, "File-based workflows will be the industry's next giant advance in video production and distribution technology. The challenge we face is improving quality, reducing costs and meeting the growing demand for content anytime, anywhere. IDC has the products and people to meet this challenge and we expect this system will be an important model for the video network of the future. We are very pleased to have been selected and look forward to supporting PBS as the network grows and evolves."
About International Datacasting Corporation (IDC):
International Datacasting Corporation (TSX:IDC) is a global leader in providing IP-based datacasting solutions for the distribution of broadband multimedia content. IDC has a broad portfolio of advanced technology products marketed under the names SuperFlex, Datacast XD, Tiernan, Logic Innovations and PROFline for implementing a wide range of satellite and other broadband content contribution and distribution networks. IDC's products are in demand for radio and television broadcast networks, distance learning, digital satellite news gathering and sport contribution, digital signage, digital cinema, IPTV distribution and other content distribution applications. IDC is headquartered in Ottawa, Canada, operates in Europe through its wholly owned subsidiary PROFline B.V. in Arnhem, the Netherlands and in the US through its Tiernan and Logic Innovations operations in San Diego, California. The Company is in international in scope with installations in over 100 countries worldwide, has regional sales and service offices in the UK, Australia, Singapore and China as well as an established international network of value-added partners and distributors.
About PBS:
PBS, with its 356 member stations, offers all Americans - from every walk of life - the opportunity to explore new ideas and new worlds through television and online content. Each month, PBS reaches more than 124 million people on-air and online, inviting them to experience the worlds of science, history, nature and public affairs; hear diverse viewpoints; and take front row seats to world-class drama and performances. PBS' broad array of programs has been consistently honored by the industry's most coveted award competitions. Teachers of children from pre-K through 12th grade turn to PBS for digital content and services that help bring classroom lessons to life. PBS' premier children's TV programming and Web site, pbskids.org, are parents' and teachers' most trusted partners in inspiring and nurturing curiosity and love of learning in children. More information about PBS is available at www.pbs.org , one of the leading dot-org Web sites on the Internet.
This press release contains forward-looking statements that may involve risks and uncertainties. Actual results may differ materially. Factors that might cause a difference include, but are not limited to, competitive developments, risks associated with IDC's growth, the development of the satellite datacasting market, regulatory risks, intellectual property infringement and other factors. IDC assumes no obligation to update these forward-looking statements to reflect events or circumstances after the date hereof. More detailed information about potential factors that could affect IDC