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Quantel upgrades Quattro; gets collaborative Apr 13, 2008 - 5:05:09 PM

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By Carl Lindemann

Quantel is showcasing  new ways for broadcasters to optimize workflow in the emerging IP connected, IT-based broadcast infrastructure.  New products and upgrades for broadcasters include the Quattro upgrades for Enterprise sQ and Newsbox HD including DINO (“Distance Is No Object”), collaboration tools that link operators across the globe. Also, new “Essence” drivers are intended to ease interoperability and efficiency. On the post side, highlights include Stereoscopic 3D postproduction technology and Neo, a new control interface for Pablo color correction.

The Quattro upgrades include a multi-layer timeline makes broadcast editing faster and more flexible. Other Quattro additions include native AVCi support, and additional connectivity and control options designed to ease workflow integration. But what’s promised to be the breakthrough product of NAB 2008 is DINO’s ability to enable content sharing and teamwork between locations.

It used to be that a “collaborative workflow” meant peering over a peer’s shoulder at the same workstation.  Now, DINO seeks to make collaboration across continents possible with Newsbox HD and Enterprise sQ . The key is effective use of bandwidth.

“We don’t send any high resolution media over a WAN. We don’t throw files around if we don’t have to. You have to keep bandwidth down to make this efficient,” said Quantel CEO Ray Cross.

While DINO unifies the operator workforce, the Essence drivers are intended to unify the use of foreign media in the Quantel environment.

“This creates a unified way of working, through driver technology.  The Essence drivers allow for remote management of foreign media so they work as well as our own. All formats have to operate in a unified way. This lets operators focus on what they want to do, which is to make TV,” said Cross.

The initial Essence drivers will be for Panasonic P2, with Sony’s flavors of XDCAM, SD, HD and, EX, to follow later this year.

Ultimately, Quantel’s success depends on having an abundant supply of  Quantel operators.  Compass, a comprehensive training initiative, is designed to open this as a career opportunity for anyone with a PC. The ambitious program aims to initiate some 20,000 new users in the next year.