The Whitlock Group Integrates Ampex DST Video Server Archive to Bring Networked Digital Video to WUSF-TV

Business Wire, Sept 28, 2000

Business Editors and High-Tech Writers

REDWOOD CITY, Calif.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Sept. 28, 2000

As part of the overall engineering and design of WUSF-TV's new broadcast facility in Tampa, Fla., The Whitlock Group is integrating an Ampex Data Systems Corp.'s video server archive into the facility's video-server based master control center scheduled to open early next year.

According to William Buxton, WUSF Station Manager, the project includes design, engineering and integration of a new ITU-BT R.601 16:9 format broadcast facility. The scope-of-work involves building design and total systems design and integration of the main terminal room, master control, production control, VTR and feed area, audio booth, graphics room and two studios. The facility is located on the campus of the University of South Florida in Tampa.

Reflecting its support of the quickly expanding role of networked digital video in broadcast television operations, The Whitlock Group is collaborating with Ampex Data Systems, SeaChange International Inc. and Avalon Consulting Group to provide the networked video server archive management solution for WUSF's broadcast enterprise. Uniting the industry-leading video server system, archive and management software, the solution will enable optimal performance of high bit-rate digital video from long-term storage to playback on-air.

The fully integrated broadcast solution comprises Ampex DST(R) 714 10.4 TB automated cartridge library, Avalon's archive management software, and SeaChange's MPEG-2 Broadcast MediaCluster video server system for video play-to-air. The foundation of this solution is SeaChange's IP-based Networked Storage Architecture (NSA), which allows multiple distributed Broadcast MediaClusters to integrate easily with the Ampex archive library, editing systems and other broadcast components through a high-performance, low-cost network based on Gigabit Ethernet switching and IP protocols.

Driven by customer demand, Ampex Data Systems has optimized its DST automated cartridge libraries for use with SeaChange's industry-leading Broadcast MediaCluster video server systems with complete software certification by the Avalon Archive Manager. "Broadcasters making the transition to video server-based playback must consider the archive requirements for near-line storage of a facility's interstitial, as well as short- and long-format, programming," said John Hennessy, director of video and broadcast marketing for Ampex Data Systems. "To meet these needs, Ampex, Avalon and SeaChange have integrated their respective product lines to create a state-of-the-art, video server archive environment."

"We are proud to integrate and install the most dependable and highest performing video server archive for broadcasters with superior cost-performance benefits," said Jim Fitzpatrick, Director of Systems Engineering for The Whitlock Group. "By showing broadcasters the advantages of networked digital video, our company is helping WUSF to improve its video operations by an order of magnitude."

Ampex DST automated cartridge libraries are high-performance, reliable digital archives with unlimited expansion capabilities to accommodate a facility's growing video storage requirements. The DST library reduces the overall time required to archive and restore program elements to a network of Broadcast MediaCluster servers. For the large number of broadcast and video houses currently using SeaChange video servers, Ampex Data Systems offers a bundled solution specifically designed for the SeaChange environment that meets all requirements for a compatible near-line archive to achieve complete automation.

Ampex Data Systems Product Line

Ideal for the archiving and retrieval of video and images in broadcast and video environments, Ampex DST automated cartridge libraries offer unlimited storage capacities combined with optimum speed, performance and reliability. A standalone DST 712 library can hold 116 50GB DST tape cartridges, putting a total storage capacity of up to 5.8 terabytes per library online in only 7.5 square feet of floor space. By using the cartridge partitioning feature in the DD-2 tape format, the library storage capacity can appear as over 20,800 200MB logical volumes to the host server. The 50GB tape capacity also serves to increase the system's productivity. The system's scalability provides over 23TB utilizing a single transfer rail with four DST 712 cabinets. By stringing together multiple clusters almost unlimited capacity can be achieved. Additional drives can be added to dramatically increase I/O capability. For more information, e-mail Ampex Data Systems at sales@ampexdata.com or call toll-free at 800/752-7590.

About The Whitlock Group

Founded in 1991, The Whitlock Group's (TWG) project engineering services include consulting, needs assessment, budgeting, system design, document preparation and integration of high quality broadcast and production facilities. Its systems staff is well experienced in working with engineers, architects and construction professionals and emphasizes a team approach to maximize the strengths of every team member. With an extensive review process, TWG can identify and address issues early in the process, saving both time and money. The end result is a "no compromise" facility. As solution providers, TWG assumes the responsibility first and foremost to represent the best interests of its clients.