New Version of Harris IconMaster Streamlines Master-Control Operations

Harris Corp. has released version 3.0 of IconMaster, a master-control switcher that is fully configurable between standard- and
high-definition (SD/HD) formats. Harris says the system offers advanced
features that enable broadcasters to streamline workflow, centralize
media management, and lower per-channel costs in multichannel
environments.

“IconMaster has a reputation as a powerful and flexible modular master- control switcher, and these latest enhancements pack even greater functionality into the same small footprint,” says Tim Thorsteinson, president of Harris Broadcast Communications. “The IconMaster system is ideal for both automated and manual master control, as well as multichannel environments.”

IconMaster v 3.0 enables control of Harris CENTRIO multiviewers and Platinum routers over Ethernet. By coupling IconMaster with CENTRIO, the master-control operator can control the multiviewer directly from the master-control switcher. In addition to driving Under Monitor Display (UMD) and tally information to CENTRIO, IconMaster drives picture-in-picture source changes when different router inputs are assigned to IconMaster inputs. In multichannel environments, the IconMaster system drives both picture-in-picture content and screen-layout changes when changing from channel to channel.

“Features such as Ethernet control, integration with multiviewers, enhanced routing control, and remote software panels provide a particularly strong solution for multiple channel launches,” adds Thorsteinson.

Leveraging the new IconMaster SCP, a touch-panel-driven software control panel that connects multiple IconMaster module sets, IconMaster v 3.0 provides users with internal and external control over branding, including
such
features as automatic Emergency Alert System (EAS) and full-quality digital video effects (DVE). IconMaster v 3.0 also uses the new Connectus graphics-management system for centrally managing and distributing media content across all networked systems.

Harris also introduces IconMaster LITE, which offers all the features and functions of the full IconMaster system but is designed for customers that do not require internal branding. IconMaster LITE can be easily paired with a Harris IconStation channel branding system to enable rich branding for a high-impact on-air look.