News: Sony Upgrades Its Multi-Format Production Switcher Technology

New Software V7.20 Delivers 1080/60P Capabilities

(Las Vegas NAB--April 15, 2008) Sony is introducing a software upgrade (version 7.20) for its MVS series of multi-format production switchers. With this enhancement, the MVS-8000G and MVE-8000A models can support full 1080/60P and 1080/50P production with dual-link input/output, dual M/E link and dual DME CH link capability (with an optional software license).

“MVS switcher technology was designed to be flexible enough for continual advancement, while still maintaining a common interface across all products in the line,” said Rob Willox, director of Sony Electronics’ content creation group. “Now, the switcher series is even more equipped to function in multi-format production environments.”

Sony’s MVS multi-format switcher technology has become a favorite of technical directors in the OB van and TV broadcast communities, with more than 1,500 systems of MVS series units delivered worldwide.

In addition to 1080/60P capability, version 7.20 software also delivers a range of new functionality.

A second frame memory board allows clips to be recorded as approximately 2,000 HD frames, without ancillary data. When recorded with ancillary data, approximately 1,700 HD frames can be recorded.

The clip transition feature is useful for adjusting the timing between background and graphics transitions. With the software, users can also perform cleaner transitions using graphics played out of the frame memory, while playing the sound recorded on the frame memory is useful for sound effects.

Support for Multi Program 2 capability lets users split ME rows and also allows re-entry between main and sub banks.

The new software features enhanced use of macros, allowing them to be recalled from a keyframe or run on a timeline.

The switchers have four keyers per M/E, which means four M/E switcher systems will offer a total of 16 channels of resizers as standard. The internal format converter supports up to 16 input channels and up to four output channels. The internal format converter will support up-, down- and cross-conversion between SD and HD formats.

Using the MVS-8000G switcher’s standard “Side Flags” feature, combining 4:3 and 16:9 material is automatic and virtually seamless to the operator, requiring no keyer resources. The new features will be further enhanced with V7.20 software.

Sony is also introducing the BKS-R6010 universal LCD remote panel for Sony's routing switcher. Key features of the remote control panel include color TFT LCD buttons with superb display performance, Ethernet and BNC cable controls, button-assignable features and an effective status display. The panel can also be used as an AUX bus remote panel for the MVS-8000G switcher.


NAB Booth # SU906

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