From SportsVideo.org

Pro-Bel Cifer Aces French Open Conversion For Genesis Networks

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Jul 24, 2008 - 10:23:37 AM

Genesis Networks recently deployed seven Pro-Bel Cifer standards converters in order to provide frame-rate conversion of the French Open. Developed in conjunction with Digital Vision, Cifer is is based on proprietary motion estimation techniques that facilitate pixel-accurate estimations and hence conversion.

Genesis Networks supplies broadcasters, cable networks, production companies and corporations with superior, customized global video transmission services. It provided the transmission and signal conversion from the venues for the two tennis championships via fiber to broadcasters in the US for distribution of the events.

"We used four Cifers for HD frame rate conversion and three for SD standards conversion with motion compensation and the Cifers provided the video conversion required for distribution in the USA. Pro-Bel was able to supply the HD units in a very tight time frame to meet our on-air dates and also came through with the SD units as a last-minute requirement. The Cifers performed very well, especially given that tennis can stress conversion equipment due to the speed of the ball," explains Dan Brenneman, director of engineering, Genesis Networks.

Cifer can convert between any SD standard and between the primary HD standards. It can also convert from SD to HD and HD to SD with the resulting pictures virtually indistinguishable from the original.

"Cifer has been painstakingly developed to handle the most complex signal conversion tasks that broadcasters and service providers face today. We are pleased that Genesis Networks has recognized this, along with many others," says Adrian Scott, chief marketing officer, Pro-Bel.