CBS Newspath Selects Tadiran Scopus MPEG-2 DVB Encoders and IRDS

Business Wire, Oct 26, 1999

SAN DIEGO--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Oct. 26, 1999--

In their efforts to explore alternative methods of content distribution by digital means, CBS Newspath has purchased a complete end-to-end system with equipment from Tadiran Scopus. This contract has been achieved through a partnership between Tadiran Scopus for the equipment and Miralite Communications, for the systems integration. Both companies have supplied a turn key solution to assist CBS Newspath in their migration from analog C-band distribution to digital Ku-band delivery.

The CBS Newspath project involves the distribution of real-time video from an ASC video server at CBS's headquarters in New York to its affiliates using Tadiran Scopus CODICO(R) E-1100 Encoders, providing a cost effective solution. At the affiliate, an advanced "tailor made" Integrated Receiver Decoder (CODICO(R) IRD-2520) is being used to provide professional real time audio/video output. The system became fully operational starting July 1, 1999 and the analog feed ceased transmission on July 31, 1999.

Mel Olinsky, Executive Director of Affiliate Services for CBS Newspath: "This project was announced to our affiliates at NAB in April. With the assistance of Tadiran Scopus and Miralite Communications and the cooperation of the Chief Engineers at all CBS stations, we were able to accomplish this transition to digital distribution of the Newspath feed in only 90 days. We are extremely pleased with the performance of the system and the flexibility and control it offers us."

Jay Gedanken, Director for Marketing for Tadiran Scopus - USA commented: "We are extremely proud to have been chosen by CBS Newspath for their advanced affiliate distribution requirements. Our selection by CBS Newspath is once again confirmation of the high quality of our products and their success in the market place. We are also happy to team with Miralite Communications to provide a comprehensive solution to this prestigious broadcast organization."

Rich Tarpley, Vice President for Miralite Communications commented: "The CBS project had a very aggressive schedule from the beginning. The close working relationship between Tadiran Scopus and Miralite allowed us to meet or exceed this challenging timeline. We are excited at the prospect of continued business with both Tadiran Scopus and CBS."

The CODICO(R) E-1100 Encoder is part of Tadiran Scopus 3rd generation of advanced 4:2:2 Encoder series. Housed in a one rackmounted enclosure, the E-1100 is designed to the high end of the broadcasting world. Using innovative dynamic noise reduction, a sophisticated frame synchronizer and advanced analog to digital conversion processing, the E-1100 optimizes the encoding process, especially with poor signal sources to provide excellent picture quality.

The CODICO(R) IRD-2520 is an "Application Specific Receiver" designed especially for customer specific requirements. The CODICO(R) IRD-2520 is highly customizable and provides a variety of professional video and audio interfaces.

CBS Newspath's initial purchase includes Tadiran Scopus CODICO(R) E-1100 advanced 4:2:0/4:2:2 MPEG-2 DVB Encoders and CODICO(R) IRD-2520 "Tailor Made" Integrated Receiver Decoders. The full system also includes the CODICO(R) NMS-4000, Network Management System (M&C) and the CODICO(R) CAS-5000, Conditional Access System with full IRD remote control capability.

CBS News Division:

The CBS News Division operates a worldwide news organization serving the CBS Television and Radio Networks with regularly scheduled news and public affairs broadcasters -- including, among others, the CBS EVENING NEWS WITH DAN RATHER, 60 MINUTES, 60 MINUTES II, 48 HOURS, THIS MORNING, FACE THE NATION and SUNDAY MORNING -- and special reports. The division maintains 14 news bureaus and offices in the United States and abroad in addition to its world headquarters in New York.

Miralite Communications:

Miralite Communications provides turn key solutions for satellite broadcasting. The company consults, designs, implements and installs complete systems for the production, reception and delivery of video, voice and data. Miralite has a worldwide network of installers providing site surveys, consultation, engineering and installation services. The company's customer base includes Lotus Development, IBM, Texas Instruments, Compaq, SERC, Oregon Ed-Net, Leigh University, Nebsat, AGSAT and many more.

Tadiran Scopus:

Based on over 15 years of extensive research and experience in digital compression algorithm development, Tadiran Scopus developed CODICO(R), a comprehensive product line of end-to-end digital compression system solutions for TV and data distribution networks.

Tadiran Scopus equipment is used globally by leading broadcasters, cable operators and private TV networks to achieve the highest quality, performance and cost effectiveness in the distribution of digital video, audio and data using international standards, recognized and adopted by the international broadcast TV community, such as MPEG-2 (Motion Picture Expert Group) and DVB (Digital Video Broadcasting).