Shell Improves Operational Efficiency with VBrick's Real-Time Video Streams

Business Wire, Nov 29, 2004

WALLINGFORD, Conn. -- MPEG-4 Compression Enables Experts around the World to View Remote Drilling Operations over Low-Bandwidth Network

VBrick Systems, Inc. (www.VBrick.com), the premier provider of digital video solutions, today announced that Shell Exploration & Production Company (SEPCo) has implemented streaming video technologies from VBrick Systems as part of its Real-Time Operations Center (RTOC) to deliver to experts a live view of offshore oil exploration and drilling operations. Transmitted from Remote Operated Vehicles at depths greater than a mile underwater, experts around the world can view real-time video streams on their home or office computers.

Traditionally, experts were required to be onboard oil rigs while operations were underway in order to advise drilling personnel and help avoid potentially expensive operational errors. The RTOC is designed to enable a long-distance collaborative effort to drill wells at extremely low costs by bringing information to the experts, rather than sending the experts to the locations. With the VBrick VBXcast, workers on Shell rigs are able to deliver this view with a secure small-bandwidth data stream on their existing satellite communication system.

VBrick VBXcast is a rugged, easy-to-support means of transmitting high-quality video within the operation's current 64 kilobit per second bandwidth constraints -- just slightly greater than dial-up speeds. SEPCo uses an ISO-standard MPEG-4 stream directed to a video server on their main network. This server redistributes this stream to several locations simultaneously where it can be viewed live on the expert's desktop, at any desktop location with an Intranet connection.

"In this application, the advantage of MPEG-4 technology is that this global standard for streaming video can be transmitted over any connection and viewed using any standard media player," said Fred Geyer, CEO of VBrick Systems. "The VBXcast enables enterprises such as Shell to reduce costs and maximize the efficiency of both their staff and equipment."

About VBrick Systems, Inc.

VBrick Systems, Inc. creates and delivers innovative networked video solutions that enhance communications and reduce costs for organizations around the world. VBrick's broad range of video solutions provide the simplest and most reliable visual communications to businesses, educational institutions and government agencies ranging in use from distributing news and information to distance-learning to training and surveillance. VBrick has garnered numerous industry accolades, including the Deloitte Technology Fast 500, Connecticut Technology Fast 50, and the National Association of Broadcaster's (NAB) Award for Innovation in Media in the Content Delivery category. Based in Wallingford, Connecticut, USA, VBrick Systems' products are distributed through industry-leading value-added resellers, system integrators and distributors. Find out more at www.VBrick.com.