THOMSON broadcast systems Partners with A.F. Associates and SANstar to Provide Video Server Based Solutions

Business Wire, March 15, 2000

Business Editors

ENGLEWOOD, NJ--(BUSINESS WIRE)--March 15, 2000

THOMSON broadcast systems and its U.S. subsidiary, THOMSON Broadcast, Inc., announced today that it has formed a strategic alliance with A.F. Associates and SANstar Inc. to provide a video server based solution with Nextore (tm), THOMSON's video server.

The growth of server-based solutions has spawned the need for providers of integrated solutions. Expertise is essential in providing full "turnkey systems." In the case of this THOMSON, A.F. Associates and SANstar consortium, customers can depend upon experts providing all facets of assistance, from requirement analysis through to implementation of server based solutions.

THOMSON's Nextore (tm), the offering's key component, is a global network server solution. This innovative concept is perfectly suited to Storage Area Network (SAN) architecture, allowing users to share data between several applications; acquisitions, news, linear and non-linear post-production, continuity and archiving. Nextore's unique advantage is compatibility with AVI/OpenDML file format and NTFS (NT File System).

Customers are able to avoid complex file handling such as transfers and copies. "This will lead to a noticeable increase in productivity for our customers," said Jaime Manzano, Vice President of Sales and Operations, THOMSON Broadcast Inc.

According to Tom Canavan, President of A.F. Associates, "Turnkey systems integration services is the primary business for A.F. Associates. With the addition of SANstar expertise in the Storage Area Network and THOMSON's system and product expertise in the server area, we have an excellent formula to deliver competitive solutions to the production, post-production, and broadcast markets."

Steven Anderson, President for SANstar, expanded, "Our ingenuity in managing complex storage networks and archives will provide a solid foundation for delivery of server based solutions. SANstar has implemented those techniques in similar mission critical applications. They are mature and ready to be integrated to the media and communication market."

During NAB 2000, Nextore will be demonstrated in a global system environment illustrating a typical program workflow in a TV station utilizing configurations already installed by major customers and entirely available today. Nextore will also be demonstrated with new compression formats (DV, MPEG-2, etc.) that enhance the current one, offering a complete family of products answering to all customer needs.

A.F. Associates, Inc. (AFA), known for "Engineering the future of television," designs, engineers and builds advanced systems for the television and digital communications industries. Turnkey systems integration services include: Project management, Engineering Documentation, Prewiring and off-site assembly, on-site installation, test and training. Engineering consultation and solutions for emerging technologies including internet broadcasting, storage area networks, asset management, etc. AFA is a Video Services Corporation company (AMEX:VS).

THOMSON broadcast systems, a subsidiary of THOMSON multimedia (NYSE:TMS), develops, produces and markets broadcast equipment for the complete digital chain including image capture, processing, compression, transmission and broadcasting. THOMSON broadcast systems also provides turnkey solutions for complete systems (production and post-production studios, OB vans, DVB broadcasting headends and networks). The company's strategic commitment to digital technologies and compression is being confirmed in new applications such as digital television, MPEG-2 and multi-service cable networks.

For additional information please visit THOMSON broadcast systems at www.thomsonbroadcast.com.