Las Vegas NAB Show 2024 Highlights: an A-Z preview
by Richard Inman
21 March 2024 expanded version
Actus Digital Actus MV and Actus AI join the four products already in its monitoring platform: Intelligent Monitoring (compliance logging/quality monitoring), Clip Factory Pro (automated content repurposing), OTT StreamWatch (OTT Monitoring) and Actus RVM (remote post-STB monitoring). Each of the six products is available can be combined or used standalone.
Adobe will demonstrate version 24.2 of its Premiere Pro video editing software. Updates includes a new ‘Frame size’ dropdown in the ‘Create Proxies’ dialogue. This allows users to select the resolution for proxies to match, halve or quarter the resolution of the original content, along with a custom option for specific resolution requirements. The update also expands the list of proxy format presets to include formats like H.264, ProRes, Cineform, and DNxHR.
Arkona Technologies will expand its BLADE//runner platform with solutions aimed at audio workflows, specifically mixing and signal processing. It will demonstrate an audio mixer, available as an option, and a dedicated audio mixer and DSP instance powered by the company’s AT300 FPGA Programmable Acceleration Care.
Avid will demonstrate how its DNAfabric, Avid NEXIS and Avid-Edit-On Demand bring a combination of on-premise and cloud hybrid backup workflows that enable faster recovery across newer data threats and attacks.
Black Box will show an enhanced Emerald Deskvue IP KVM receiver with the Emerald AV Wall feature set. Deskvue enables users to access up to 16 sources and arrange them according to their requirements on up to four 4K screens, one of which can be 5K. When users add Emerald AV Wall, they can move sources from Deskvue to a 2×2 video wall to enhance collaboration with a local team.
Bolin Technology is a PTZ camera brand specialising in baseband video and AVoIP video camera solutions. Applications of its indoor and outdoor PTZ cameras include broadcast, professional sports, education, unified communications, live performance venues, oceanic research ND space exploration, and any other scenario where high-quality video, flexible connectivity, and accurate, smooth, and quiet PTZ performance is required.
Brainstorm will exhibit the latest additions to its range of 3D graphics and virtual set software for broadcast, feature film production and corporate presentations. In 1994, Brainstorm’s first milestone was also the first time a real-time 3D virtual set was used in live television production: an interview with Mike Oldfield for the promotion of his album ‘Songs from the Distant Earth’ for Antena 3 TV in Spain.
Bridge Technologies will demonstrate version 6.2 upgrade for all Bridge Technologies’ probes, including the VB330 IP monitoring probe. Two new PTS/PCR time checks will provide more in-depth analysis of misalignment and timing slippage, and allow for detection of buffer timing issues, which might previously have been missed.
Brightcove has added web-based video editing capabilities to its streaming platform. The editing functionality is designed for anyone to use regardless of their level of video expertise. Users can trim and cut sections within larger videos or merge points to create new clips, reels or highlights. They can also add graphics, logos, music, artwork and other creative elements.
Calrec will demo a new reduced-height variant of its Argo-S IP-native mixer control surface. This combines the meter-bridge and touch UI into a single row of displays, with users able to switch between Calrec Assist full Web UI and full meters on any section, on-the-fly. Each 12-fader wide section is fully independent in terms of processing capabilities, path control access, power supplies and connectivity.
Cartoni’s range of pneumatic pedestals for studio and outdoor broadcast applications has been updated and improved and will be released as a high-performance series, including the P20 HP, P40 HP, P70 HP, P70 HP Steering and P90 HP. Improvements include a dual-stage column with a first manual height adjustment and a smooth second pneumatic elevation unit for height on-air adjustment. On the P90, both stages are pneumatic, and a new reduced minimum height has been achieved.
Chyron’s Paint 9.6 replay and sports analysis tool introduces new updates including Multi-Angle Telestration and Highlight Pitch Zone tools, designed to give sportscasters with unprecedented flexibility in sports storytelling. Also new is the Prime 4.9 live production engine including enhancements aimed at improving efficiency in designing and executing complex graphics that use real-time data sources.
Cobalt Digital’s 9905-MPx openGear card facilitates the conversion of 1080i SDR signals into 1080p HDR, ready for ATSC 3.0, incorporating 3D-LUTs and color correction capabilities to support downstream HDR systems. Also new at NAB 2024 are UltraBlue IP-MV multiviewers featuring WebRTC output. These multiviewers support a range of IP/SDI inputs and outputs. Cobalt also introduces a 2U 36 x 36 router support up signals of up to 12G-SDI.
CuesScript’s cloud-based CueTALK Cloud is a voice-activated service for its CueiT prompting software SayiT. SayiT receives a talent microphone input and allows those using the CueiT teleprompting software to have the script automatically scroll in accordance to what they are saying, matching what is displayed on the output of the teleprompter and eliminating the need to manually scroll the prompter script. Also on show will be OnTime, a Wi-Fi enabled clock device that can be configured to the local time zone.
Dejero has developed a mobile network aggregation device, the GateWay 3220, to support its customers’ critical communications at the edge. It is housed in a fanless chassis for installation in vehicles and portable kits.
DPA Microphones’ 2017 shotgun microphone is intended for use at broadcast and live events. Measuring 184 mm has been tested for use at temperatures from -40 to +40 C with 90 percent relative humidity.
DVEO’s DVEO Live Streaming Production Box, housed offers customers with the control and administration software required for successful live broadcasting. It accepts SDI or IP input for integration into current setups and workflows.
Evertz’ NEXX routing platform supports the integration of UHD and HDR technologies while preparing users for future IP expansions and cloud-based workflows. Available in 5 U (384×384) and 3 U (96×96) configurations, it supports audio management, including shuffling between embedded audio, MADI, TDM, and features a software-enabled multiviewer with over 40 layout options.
Farmerswife will show the latest innovations in its Cirkus project management solution including a new Public Requests feature. This is designed to simplify the process of submitting project and booking requests.
For-A will spotlight a production automation package developed in collaboration with Aveco. This combines For-A’s HVS Series production switchers, Insight video servers, and ClassX graphics systems with Aveco’s Astra Studio production automation and Gemini media management systems. The package is designed to meet the needs of mid-sized, small-market and public stations broadcast stations.
GatesAir is adding to its transmitter range the Flexiva GX2K, supporting 2 kilowatts of analog FM in a 2 U chassis. NAB Show 2024 also marks the North American debut of the GX50 (50 watts), GX1K (1 kW) and GX3K (3 kW), all of which debuted at the IBC 2023 show in September. GatesAir has enhanced the GUI for all six GX models, including integrated audio playback and a supporting playlist manager. Options include GPS receivers for SFN support, and GatesAir’s Intraplex IP Link 100e (IPL-100e) module.
Glensound’s AoIP22M is a small format portable audio-over-IP interface similar to the AoIP22, with two analog inputs and two analog outputs to interface to a Dante/AES67 network. Main difference is that the inputs are switchable from line to microphone. The DC power input is using USB C to allow connection to generic plug-top power supplies or USB power banks. Also new is the Dark Dawn 1616M Dante/AES67 interface.
Grass Valley will demonstrate updates to its LDX 100 Series broadcast camera platform and K-Frame video production switchers. Camera improvements include the integration of LUT processing, eliminating the need for external converters. The cameras now support 6x 1080p shooting with native UHD resolution output. A new model is now available for integration with wireless transmission and cloud-based production solutions.
Hitachi’s DK-H700 is a 4K box camera designed with three 8.3 million pixel 2/3-inch CMOS sensors. An added ND filter improves depth of field and reduces moiré patterns on video walls. Hitachi will also show the SK-UHD7000-S2 camera from its SK-UHD7000 Series. This is a multi-format camera that provides an 4K license upgrade option, allowing users to start with 1080p production and activate 4K as needed.
IHSE USA will show a new KVM system using the JPEG XS codec, developed in collaboration with Fraunhofer IIS. This enables ultra-low-latency video routing, crucial for broadcast, in-house production, and gaming applications.
Imagine Communications Imagine CrossFlight is a cloud-based ad sales platform designed to streamline sales processes for North American broadcasters, integrating with the OSI traffic and billing solution. Demonstrations will also cover GamePlan, Imagine’s dynamic ad placement engine, and the SureFire video ad server, both designed to optimise ad revenue across different broadcasting formats.
Ikegami USA will demonstrate its range of broadcast quality camera systems and monitoring equipment. Established products will include the UHK-X600, UHK-X700, UHK-X750, HDK-99, UHL-43 and UHL-F4000 cameras plus a full range of monitors. A major Ikegami product launch is scheduled to be announced at or shortly before the show.
Leader Instruments Corporation will show additions to the feature set of its ZEN Series range of test and measurement instruments. These include an integral bidirectional conversion tool allowing HDR content to be viewed in SDR and vice versa. Processing is based on the desired 3D colour lookup table which can be imported via plug-in USB memory. The new 3D LUT capabilities will simplify live production workflows by integrating HDR/SDR conversion for applications such as camera shading and HDR supervision. Also new are ARRI and RED camera tools, added to Leader CINEZONE, plus SDR ‘Full Range’ display.
Marshall Electronics’ new CV612-TBI/TWI PTZ camera can automatically track, follow and frame presenters using facial learning. Equipped with 12X optical and a 15X digital zoom, it offers a 4.1 to 49.2 mm (6.6 to 70.3 degrees) field of view. The camera includes a 2 megapixel 1/2.8-inch HD CMOS sensor. It includes a flexible networkable IP interface with simultaneous 3G-SDI, HDMI and USB 3.0 Type C outputs.
Miller’s SkyX 8 fluid head offers 16 positions of stepped counterbalance with CB Plus and a 120 mm travel large Euro camera plate. It features a 7+0 positions pan and tilt fluid drag system. The head is built from die-cast alloy and composite polymers and can support camera payloads up to 40 kg. Miller is also introducing updates to the CompassX and Air fluid heads, incorporating the new Versa side loading plate.
MultiDyne Video & Fiber Optic Systems’ new MDoG Series offers SMPTE ST 2110 network interface and low-latency JPEG-XS codec modules to manage uncompressed and compressed signals as they move between legacy systems and IP networks, with full redundancy to optimize performance. MDoG-6060 ST 2110 interfaces are available in multiple I/O configurations for 3G-SDI and 12G-SDI systems. Each configuration offers two 25GB network interfaces to support redundant transport streams, strengthened through SMPTE ST 2022-7 compliance.
Motion Impossible is introducing four advancements in camera movement technology: the AGITO Gen 2, AGITO Cine, AGITO Commander, and MagTrax. AGITO Gen 2: Building upon their flagship AGITO robotic dolly’s success, the Gen 2 introduces innovations in the Core and Master Controller, including silent steering actuators, increased payload support, seamless Ethernet control, and IP45 weather resistance. AGITO Commander: Their new centralized software platform allows control of multiple AGITOs from a single station, enabling synchronisation of timelines, presets, and keyframes for enhanced visual storytelling. AGITO Cine: Making its US debut, AGITO Cine revolutionises cinematic productions with features for repeatable moves, heavy payloads, dynamic low-to-ground shots, and compatibility with 180-degree and 360-degree cameras. MagTrax: MagTrax is a discreet magnetic tracking strip that facilitates smooth transitions between straight and curved paths, enabling operators to focus solely on camera movement while AGITO autonomously follows multiple pathways.
Nugen Audio will show the latest version of its VisLM loudness metering plug-in. Users can now define program segments, facilitating multiple integrated loudness measurements such as those needed around advertising breaks. VisLM 3 also extends support to up to 22.2 audio channels and introduces stem monitoring along with loudness measurement for separate deliverables.
PHABRIX’ Qx rasterizers and waveform monitors have been updated to support the detection and analysis of SMPTE Full Range video standards. This improvement allows users to ensure the highest quality for their content by providing options to generate video in Full Range, Full Protected Range, or Narrow Range in IP ST-2110, and either Full Range or Narrow Range in IP ST 2022-6 and SDI. The series also now includes an analyzer capable of verifying colour content across different video formats.
PlayBox Neo will introduce new refinements to its range of broadcast playout and channel branding solutions. These include additional creative functionality for AirBox Neo-20, Media Gateway and Capture Suite, plus SMPTE ST 2110 IP input/output support. Also on show will be the latest versions of PlayBox Neo’s complete Channel-in-a-Box turnkey channel branding and playout product suite and software-centric Cloud2TV. They will be demonstrated as part of a complete system.
Pronology‘s StreamFile Core facilitates the distribution and receipt of IP video, enabling conversion to formats compatible with video editing software. It can directly save files for local and cloud-based storage. Offering support for SMPTE 2110 on commonly available hardware, StreamFile Core accommodates SMPTE 2022-7 standards and supports both NMOS discovery and manual stream entry.
Shotoku will demonstrate the latest version of its TR-XT camera control system which connects with all Shotoku robotic camera systems via Ethernet and to compatible third party devices via serial or Digiport protocol convertors. The system comprises the 3U T-Panel, high resolution glass-front VGA touch screen and 2U T-Computer processor unit. With the new AutoFrame face tracking option, the TR-XT can automatically maintain any desired framing of a presenter or guest live on air.
Sony will show a new dedicated portable data transmitter, PDT-FP1, which allows video and still image data transport over 5G networks. It includes a 6.1-inch OLED display and a cooling fan, and comes with an HDMI input, a LAN port, a USB Type-C port, a USB Type-C charging terminal and a screw hole for mounting on a camera. A dedicated Network Visualiser app allows users to check network and communications conditions.
TAG will demonstrate how dashboards can be built and customised with open toolsets like Kibana, Grafana and Kafka to address any level of detail and show how users can maximise the full extent of their data and gain insight from TAG’s Realtime Media Platform.
Tieline’s Bridge-IT II and Bridge-IT XTRA II IP audio codecsare intended for use in home studios, remote broadcasts, studio-to-transmitter links and studio-to-studio links. Upgrades include include compatibility with contemporary networking standards like AES67, ST2110-30, ST2022-7, Livewire, RAVENNA, and AMWA NMOS IS-04 and IS-05. The codecs offer dual full-duplex mono or a single full-duplex stereo connection, enhanced connectivity with multiple Ethernet and AoIP ports, and versatile failover options.
Witbe’s Ad Monitoring and Matching technology is designed to keep track of dynamically inserted advertisements in video streams and evaluate their performance and presence in a real-time setting. Witbe’s allows the detection and troubleshooting of issues arising from dynamic ad insertion, such as errors that cannot be identified through traditional monitoring methods. Service providers receive detailed reports on errors like blank screens, audio disruptions, stream crashes, buffering, and problems transitioning back to primary content.
Wohler Technologies’ eVAM1-1 provides monitoring capabilities for up to 16 channels of 3G-SDI audio and video. This is achieved within a 1U chassis featuring a 2.4 inch touch screen for switching between video, metering, and menu options. The eVAM1-1+ expands on this by incorporating an HDMI option card enabling HDMI input and output in addition to the standard SDI inputs.
Published by Richard Inman
