Vortex release Ethernet VIP-Stream

Vortex’s new VIP-Stream system provides the same flexibility as a traditional coaxial TV distribution system, but uses a standard Ethernet network across UTP (such as CAT5) or fibre.
The system uses conventional IP technology and is capable of carrying full broadcast-quality feeds (including HD) in any mix. It is completely scaleable and expandable virtually without limit to any number of sources and users.
Sources are converted to individual VIP-Streams that are aggregated to a single feed using conventional network hubs or switches. The aggregated VIP-Stream is carried on a single network cable and is then available to all users using conventional Ethernet switches to provide the network feeds. VIP-Stream decoders provide analogue or SDI outputs for conventional monitors, plasma screens and projectors. In addition, software applications are available allowing users to view VIP-Streams in a window on their PC’s desktop, either as a single channel or a multi-channel ‘video wall’. There is also an option to record them locally on their PC hard drives.
The VIP-Stream system does not need its own IP network provided there is sufficient data bandwidth available to carry the TV traffic. Multicast technology ensures efficient use of network bandwidth by only transmitting streams that are actually being watched. Thus, if everyone is watching the same television channel, this is the only one broadcast onto the network.
As the system is Ethernet based, VIP-Stream encoders and decoders can be physically located anywhere on the same network. Furthermore, the system can be equipped with a TeraStore hard disk array that can record and replay multiple channels on demand.
This can be organised to be at a lower resolution than ‘live’ transmission for applications such as archiving.
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