Las Vegas NAB Show 2024 Digest
An A-Z Exploration of New Exhibits
by Richard Inman
Actus Digital’s Actus MV and Actus AI join the four products already in its monitoring platform: Intelligent Monitoring (compliance logging/quality monitoring), Clip Factory Pro (automated content repurposing), OTT StreamWatch (OTT Monitoring) and Actus RVM (remote post-STB monitoring). Each of the six products is available can be combined or used standalone.
Adobe will demonstrate version 24.2 of its Premiere Pro video editing software. Updates includes a new ‘Frame size’ dropdown in the ‘Create Proxies’ dialogue. This allows users to select the resolution for proxies to match, halve or quarter the resolution of the original content, along with a custom option for specific resolution requirements. The update also expands the list of proxy format presets to include formats like H.264, ProRes, Cineform, and DNxHR.
AJA Video Systems’ ColorBox v2.1 introduces new features including 4K/UltraHD down-conversion and 4K/2K cropping. Also new is v4.3 software for AJA’s FS-HDR/WCG converter and frame synchoniser including the latest BBC HLG LUTs v1.7, as well as new motion adaptive deinterlacer and channel-to-channel HFR sync controls.
Appear’s new JPEG XS module enables the delivery of 8 full HD channels per module, equalling a possible 96 JPEG XS full HD channels across a 2 U chassis. The company will also highlight the HEVC performance of its X Platform, enabling 96 full HD HEVC feeds to be contributed from a 2 U chassis. Appear will also launch a 100Gb IP Gateway switch module to increase the density of contributed live video and media through the company’s X Platform.
Arkona Technologies will expand its BLADE//runner platform with solutions aimed at audio workflows, specifically mixing and signal processing. It will demonstrate an audio mixer, available as an option, and a dedicated audio mixer and DSP instance powered by the company’s AT300 FPGA Programmable Acceleration Care.
ARRI’s new L-Series Plus LED Fresnel lights come in two sizes: the L5-C Plus features a five-inch Fresnel lens while the L7-C Plus features a seven-inch. Approximately the same size and weight as their predecessors, the L-Series Plus products are claimed to provide up to 90% more light output. Existing barndoors and all other L-Series accessories are fully compatible with the new Plus range.
Avid will demonstrate how its DNAfabric, Avid NEXIS and Avid-Edit-On Demand bring a combination of on-premise and cloud hybrid backup workflows that enable faster recovery across newer data threats and attacks.
Black Box will show an enhanced Emerald Deskvue IP KVM receiver with the Emerald AV Wall feature set. Deskvue enables users to access up to 16 sources and arrange them according to their requirements on up to four 4K screens, one of which can be 5K. When users add Emerald AV Wall, they can move sources from Deskvue to a 2×2 video wall to enhance collaboration with a local team.
Blackmagic’s DaVinci Resolve Micro Color Panel is a US$495 color panel for DaVinci Resolve software. It includes trackballs and control knobs as well as navigation and transport keys for shortcut commands, plus a mounting slot for an Apple iPad Pro, an internal battery, Bluetooth and USB-C connections. Also new are the Pyxis 6K box-format digital cine camera and the Blackmagic Ethernet Switch 360P. The 360P has 16 10G Ethernet ports and two 100G Ethernet ports.
Bolin Technology is a PTZ camera brand specialising in baseband video and AVoIP video camera solutions. Applications of its indoor and outdoor PTZ cameras include broadcast, professional sports, education, unified communications, live performance venues, oceanic research ND space exploration, and any other scenario where high-quality video, flexible connectivity, and accurate, smooth, and quiet PTZ performance is required.
Brainstorm will exhibit the latest additions to its range of 3D graphics and virtual set software for broadcast, feature film production and corporate presentations. In 1994, Brainstorm’s first milestone was also the first time a real-time 3D virtual set was used in live television production: an interview with Mike Oldfield for the promotion of his album ‘Songs from the Distant Earth’ for Antena 3 TV in Spain.
Bridge Technologies will demonstrate version 6.2 upgrade for all Bridge Technologies’ probes, including the VB330 IP monitoring probe. Two new PTS/PCR time checks will provide more in-depth analysis of misalignment and timing slippage, and allow for detection of buffer timing issues, which might previously have been missed.
Brightcove has added web-based video editing capabilities to its streaming platform. The editing functionality is designed for anyone to use regardless of their level of video expertise. Users can trim and cut sections within larger videos or merge points to create new clips, reels or highlights. They can also add graphics, logos, music, artwork and other creative elements.
Calrec will demo a new reduced-height variant of its Argo-S IP-native mixer control surface. This combines the meter-bridge and touch UI into a single row of displays, with users able to switch between Calrec Assist full Web UI and full meters on any section, on-the-fly. Each 12-fader wide section is fully independent in terms of processing capabilities, path control access, power supplies and connectivity.
Canon’s CJ27ex7.3B IASE T portable zoom lens is designed to capture 4K HDR image quality from wide angle to telephoto. The new lens is compatible with 4K broadcast cameras equipped with 2/3-inch sensors. It has a 7.3-197mm focal length range and a 2.0x optical extender.
Cartoni’s range of pneumatic pedestals for studio and outdoor broadcast applications has been updated and improved and will be released as a high-performance series, including the P20 HP, P40 HP, P70 HP, P70 HP Steering and P90 HP. Improvements include a dual-stage column with a first manual height adjustment and a smooth second pneumatic elevation unit for height on-air adjustment. On the P90, both stages are pneumatic, and a new reduced minimum height has been achieved.
Chyron’s Paint 9.6 replay and sports analysis tool introduces new updates including Multi-Angle Telestration and Highlight Pitch Zone tools, designed to give sportscasters with unprecedented flexibility in sports storytelling. Also new is the Prime 4.9 live production engine including enhancements aimed at improving efficiency in designing and executing complex graphics that use real-time data sources.
Cobalt Digital’s 9905-MPx openGear card facilitates the conversion of 1080i SDR signals into 1080p HDR, ready for ATSC 3.0, incorporating 3D-LUTs and color correction capabilities to support downstream HDR systems. Also new at NAB 2024 are UltraBlue IP-MV multiviewers featuring WebRTC output. These multiviewers support a range of IP/SDI inputs and outputs. Cobalt also introduces a 2U 36 x 36 router support up signals of up to 12G-SDI.
CuesScript’s cloud-based CueTALK Cloud is a voice-activated service for its CueiT prompting software SayiT. SayiT receives a talent microphone input and allows those using the CueiT teleprompting software to have the script automatically scroll in accordance to what they are saying, matching what is displayed on the output of the teleprompter and eliminating the need to manually scroll the prompter script. Also on show will be OnTime, a Wi-Fi enabled clock device that can be configured to the local time zone.
Dejero has developed a mobile network aggregation device, the GateWay 3220, to support its customers’ critical communications at the edge. It is housed in a fanless chassis for installation in vehicles and portable kits.
Digital Glue’s //Edge-X server is an SSD-based storage server for on-set storage, including mounted directly to a tripod. Productions can be ingested directly from cameras over a network connection using the creative.space web app, instead of having to shuttle capture cards. The //EDGE-X is available for $250 per month for 15 terabytes under a five-year contract paid annually.
DPA Microphones’ 2017 shotgun microphone is intended for use at broadcast and live events. Measuring 184 mm has been tested for use at temperatures from -40 to +40 C with 90 percent relative humidity.
DVEO’s DVEO Live Streaming Production Box, housed offers customers with the control and administration software required for successful live broadcasting. It accepts SDI or IP input for integration into current setups and workflows.
ENCO will demonstrate an AI-driven virtual anchor delivering live news from a 3D virtual news set. The presentation will be produced live from a virtual production studio powered by Qimera AR/VR/MR systems in combination with generative AI technologies. The AI virtual anchor leverages AI models to generate virtual human anchors that speak with human-sounding voices.
Evertz’ NEXX routing platform supports the integration of UHD and HDR technologies while preparing users for future IP expansions and cloud-based workflows. Available in 5 U (384×384) and 3 U (96×96) configurations, it supports audio management, including shuffling between embedded audio, MADI, TDM, and features a software-enabled multiviewer with over 40 layout options.
Farmerswife will show the latest innovations in its Cirkus project management solution including a new Public Requests feature. This is designed to simplify the process of submitting project and booking requests.
For-A will spotlight a production automation package developed in collaboration with Aveco. This combines For-A’s HVS Series production switchers, Insight video servers, and ClassX graphics systems with Aveco’s Astra Studio production automation and Gemini media management systems. The package is designed to meet the needs of mid-sized, small-market and public stations broadcast stations.
Fujifilm’s Fujinon HZK24-300mm is a dual-format lens supporting two types of large image sensors. The lens is equipped with a 12.5x zoom lens that covers the focal length range of 24-300 mm frequently used in the field. Length is 270.5 mm and weight is 2.95 kg
GatesAir is adding to its transmitter range the Flexiva GX2K, supporting 2 kilowatts of analog FM in a 2 U chassis. NAB Show 2024 also marks the North American debut of the GX50 (50 watts), GX1K (1 kW) and GX3K (3 kW), all of which debuted at the IBC 2023 show in September. GatesAir has enhanced the GUI for all six GX models, including integrated audio playback and a supporting playlist manager. Options include GPS receivers for SFN support, and GatesAir’s Intraplex IP Link 100e (IPL-100e) module.
Glensound’s AoIP22M is a small format portable audio-over-IP interface similar to the AoIP22, with two analog inputs and two analog outputs to interface to a Dante/AES67 network. Main difference is that the inputs are switchable from line to microphone. The DC power input is using USB C to allow connection to generic plug-top power supplies or USB power banks. Also new is the Dark Dawn 1616M Dante/AES67 interface.
Grass Valley will demonstrate updates to its LDX 100 Series broadcast camera platform and K-Frame video production switchers. Camera improvements include the integration of LUT processing, eliminating the need for external converters. The cameras now support 6x 1080p shooting with native UHD resolution output. A new model is now available for integration with wireless transmission and cloud-based production solutions.
Hitachi’s DK-H700 is a 4K box camera designed with three 8.3 million pixel 2/3-inch CMOS sensors. An added ND filter improves depth of field and reduces moiré patterns on video walls. Hitachi will also show the SK-UHD7000-S2 camera from its SK-UHD7000 Series. This is a multi-format camera that provides an 4K license upgrade option, allowing users to start with 1080p production and activate 4K as needed.
IHSE USA will show a new KVM system using the JPEG XS codec, developed in collaboration with Fraunhofer IIS. This enables ultra-low-latency video routing, crucial for broadcast, in-house production, and gaming applications.
Imagine Communications’ Imagine CrossFlight is a cloud-based ad sales platform designed to streamline sales processes for North American broadcasters, integrating with the OSI traffic and billing solution. Demonstrations will also cover GamePlan, Imagine’s dynamic ad placement engine, and the SureFire video ad server, both designed to optimise ad revenue across different broadcasting formats.
Ikan’s E-Image XR Production Tripod Kit (EG25XR) head and lens tracking system is designed for use in XR systems. It comprises a 30 kg payload fluid head with built-in pan/tilt encoders, external zoom/focus lens encoders and an XR data processor; all mounted on a carbon fiber tripod. The tracking system is designed to collect precise data on the pan and tilt angles of the head, as well as the zoom and focus of the lens. Tracking data can be exported via the Free-D Protocol using either an RS422 or RJ45 interface.
Ikegami USA introduced four new additions to its range of broadcast production equipment: the HDK-X500 HD portable camera system and OCP-500 operation control panel plus two new video monitors – the mains-powered HLM-2460WA and mains/battery HLM-1860WR. The Ikegami HDK-X500 is designed for use across a wide spectrum of applications including pedestal-mounted studio operation, tripod-based sports coverage and shoulder-mounted location production. It includes 2/3-inch CMOS global shutter sensors plus automatic optical vignetting correction throughout the range of OVC-compatible B4 bayonet mount zoom lenses.
IMAX Corporation will exhibit a new version of its StreamSmart enterprise software for live and linear workflows. StreamSmart On-Air reduces bitrate of live streams and is claimed to save 15% or more on the cost of CDN distribution with no distinguishable difference to viewer experience. It seamlessly integrates into an existing encoding and packaging workflow for minimal disruption to the tech stack, and uses a simple manifest manipulation approach, making it codec, encoder, and configuration agnostic.
JVC Professional Video’s new KY-PZ540 Series PTZ cameras feature 40x zoom, auto-tracking operation and NDI supported IP-based remote operation capabilities. A USB interface is available for direct connection to conferencing services such as Zoom and Google Meet.
Leader’s new ZEN-W Series comprises the LV5600W waveform monitor and its LV7600W rack-mountable equivalent. The LV5600W is a 3U high half-rack-width unit with an integral 7 inch touchscreen. The LV7600W occupies 1U and has SDI plus TMDS monitor outputs. Developed from the established LV5600 and LV7600, these latest-generation instruments are designed to satisfy the most demanding broadcast media test and measurement environments. WebRTC allows secure remote control and monitoring from a web-connected desktop or laptop computer.
Magewell’s Director Mini is a portable production and streaming system that integrates multi-input switching, graphics, streaming, recording and monitoring into a single compact device. The monitor has a touchscreen interface and companion mobile app. The Director Mini 2.4 update adds over 20 new features and enhancements including instant replay, live support for HTML graphics platforms, and network bonding. Two replays can be played individually or side by side, in full speed or slow motion, and can be saved for later use.
Mark Roberts Motion Control’s Cinebot Max builds on the Cinebot Mini’s capabilities with increased payload, reach and range of motion. It can operate on batteries and has up to 20 kg camera capacity, 3.2 m camera height and 1.75 m reach. It is slim and lightweight and suitable for shooting in tight locations.
Marshall Electronics’ new CV612-TBI/TWI PTZ camera can automatically track, follow and frame presenters using facial learning. Equipped with 12X optical and a 15X digital zoom, it offers a 4.1 to 49.2 mm (6.6 to 70.3 degrees) field of view. The camera includes a 2 megapixel 1/2.8-inch HD CMOS sensor. It includes a flexible networkable IP interface with simultaneous 3G-SDI, HDMI and USB 3.0 Type C outputs.
Matrox’ new 100 GbE ST 2110 network card is designed for media environments including broadcast and virtual production. Featuring dual QSFP 28 connectors, the PCIe Gen 4 x 8 card offers up to eight channels of UHDp60 or two channels of 8Kp60 input and output, all with ST 2022-7 redundancy. The card has hardware-based PTP to provide nanosecond-range ST 2059-2 accuracy and offloads all ST 2110 packet processing from the CPU.
Miller’s SkyX 8 fluid head offers 16 positions of stepped counterbalance with CB Plus and a 120 mm travel large Euro camera plate. It features a 7+0 positions pan and tilt fluid drag system. The head is built from die-cast alloy and composite polymers and can support camera payloads up to 40 kg. Miller is also introducing updates to the CompassX and Air fluid heads, incorporating the new Versa side loading plate.
MultiDyne Video & Fiber Optic Systems’ new MDoG Series offers SMPTE ST 2110 network interface and low-latency JPEG-XS codec modules to manage uncompressed and compressed signals as they move between legacy systems and IP networks, with full redundancy to optimize performance. MDoG-6060 ST 2110 interfaces are available in multiple I/O configurations for 3G-SDI and 12G-SDI systems. Each configuration offers two 25GB network interfaces to support redundant transport streams, strengthened through SMPTE ST 2022-7 compliance.
NTP Technology’s DAD AX Center is a 1U audio interface and router equipped to perform audio conversion and monitor control. The control software gives access to a 512 x 64 channel summing processor. SPQ processing offers 128 channels with a total of 1024 EQ filters, as well as delay, for accurate loudspeaker correction in the studio. The internal routing matrix spans 984 x 984 channels, allowing any input to be routed to any output or duplicated and routed to several different destinations simultaneously.
Nugen Audio will show the latest version of its VisLM loudness metering plug-in. Users can now define program segments, facilitating multiple integrated loudness measurements such as those needed around advertising breaks. VisLM 3 also extends support to up to 22.2 audio channels and introduces stem monitoring along with loudness measurement for separate deliverables.
Panasonic announced enhancements to its AV-HSW10 compact live switcher to improve the efficiency and quality of video production for webinars and other live events. The new AV-HSW10 is claimed to combine the stability of Panasonic’s broadcast and professional hardware switchers with the scalability of a software solution. Updates include firmware version 2.00 for streamlined setup and a software control panel allowing one-person operation and remote operation. Also new is the KY-PZ540NWU NDI HX3 compatible 4K 60p audio-tracking PTZ camera offering 40x zoom in HD.
Phabrix’ Qx rasterizers and waveform monitors have been updated to support the detection and analysis of SMPTE Full Range video standards. This improvement allows users to ensure the highest quality for their content by providing options to generate video in Full Range, Full Protected Range, or Narrow Range in IP ST-2110, and either Full Range or Narrow Range in IP ST 2022-6 and SDI. The series also now includes an analyzer capable of verifying colour content across different video formats.
PlayBox Neo will introduce new refinements to its range of broadcast playout and channel branding solutions. These include additional creative functionality for AirBox Neo-20, Media Gateway and Capture Suite, plus SMPTE ST 2110 IP input/output support. Also on show will be the latest versions of PlayBox Neo’s complete Channel-in-a-Box turnkey channel branding and playout product suite and software-centric Cloud2TV. They will be demonstrated as part of a complete system.
Pronology’s StreamFile Core facilitates the distribution and receipt of IP video, enabling conversion to formats compatible with video editing software. It can directly save files for local and cloud-based storage. Offering support for SMPTE 2110 on commonly available hardware, StreamFile Core accommodates SMPTE 2022-7 standards and supports both NMOS discovery and manual stream entry.
Red Digital Cinema’s new Cine-Broadcast module is compatible with the company’s V-Raptor XL [X], V-Raptor [X] and standard V-Raptor and V-Raptor XL camera systems. The module unlocks live broadcast with up to two channels of 4K 60p HDR/SDR over 12G-SDI and is IP-broadcast ready with SMPTE ST 2110 (TR-08) and up to a 4K 60P JPEG-XS feed. The module has an SMPTE 311M/304M hybrid fiber optical cable connector which connects to a rack mountable 2 U base station.
Rohde & Schwarz’ TE1 ATSC 3.0 native transmitter uses liquid-cooling to ensure heat from the amplifiers is dissipated outside, eliminating the need for air conditioning. The design eliminates single points of failures. All parameters can be monitored and controlled remotely.
Røde’s Interview Pro is a handheld condenser microphone for use with any of the company’s Series IV wireless links for recording into a camera, smartphone or computer. It can also be paired directly to the RødeCaster Pro II, Duo and Streamer X like an XLR microphone.
Shotoku will demonstrate the latest version of its TR-XT camera control system which connects with all Shotoku robotic camera systems via Ethernet and to compatible third party devices via serial or Digiport protocol convertors. The system comprises the 3U T-Panel, high resolution glass-front VGA touch screen and 2U T-Computer processor unit. With the new AutoFrame face tracking option, the TR-XT can automatically maintain any desired framing of a presenter or guest live on air.
Sony’s new dedicated portable data transmitter, PDT-FP1, which allows video and still image data transport over 5G networks. It includes a 6.1-inch OLED display and a cooling fan, and comes with an HDMI input, a LAN port, a USB Type-C port, a USB Type-C charging terminal and a screw hole for mounting on a camera. A dedicated Network Visualiser app allows users to check network and communications conditions.
TAG will demonstrate how dashboards can be built and customised with open toolsets like Kibana, Grafana and Kafka to address any level of detail and show how users can maximise the full extent of their data and gain insight from TAG’s Realtime Media Platform.
Telemetrics has introduced new software and hardware improvements across its entire range of camera control systems. These include the addition of new features for the RCCP-2A robotic camera control panel for the Telemetrics OmniGlide robotic roving platform and TG-4/TG-5 camera trolley and track systems.
Tieline’s Bridge-IT II and Bridge-IT XTRA II IP audio codecsare intended for use in home studios, remote broadcasts, studio-to-transmitter links and studio-to-studio links. Upgrades include include compatibility with contemporary networking standards like AES67, ST2110-30, ST2022-7, Livewire, RAVENNA, and AMWA NMOS IS-04 and IS-05. The codecs offer dual full-duplex mono or a single full-duplex stereo connection, enhanced connectivity with multiple Ethernet and AoIP ports, and versatile failover options.
Tolka will exhibit latest-generation ATSC 3 receiver modules, datacasting solutions and the Tolka ADS targeted content insertion system. Tolka ADS combines content insertion and advertisement targeting in a single software-based solution. No internet return path is needed. Advertisers gain a higher conversion rate and can also construct audience databases. The content insertion capability gives terrestrial and satellite broadcasters the ability to insert relevant and localised advertising for audiences across specific regions. Tolka also offers product development services for use by third-party manufacturers.
Tiffen’s Smartphone 58mm Filter Mount magnetically secures to the back of an Apple iPhone, ready to accept any Tiffen 58mm filter. The filter then simply threads on to capture images with enhanced creativity, light control, depth, and detail. It is compatible with iPhone 14/15, 14/15 Pro, 14/15 Plus and 14/15 Pro Max models. List price is $29.99.
Tinkerlist’s Cuez is a cloud-based newsroom solution for live news and 24/7 channels as well as sports, entertainment and live events. It supports remote working and collaboration, connecting to existing studio hardware and software and allowing device control from the rundown.
Utah Scientific’s Maxmux multiplexer can combine up to 80 discrete 3G or 1.5G signals into one uncompressed 12G or 6G data stream. It is designed to increase the maximum number of 3G/1.5G channels over CWDM from 18 to 72, allowing users to quadruple their use of previously existing fiber networks.
Witbe’s Ad Monitoring and Matching technology is designed to keep track of dynamically inserted advertisements in video streams and evaluate their performance and presence in a real-time setting. Witbe’s allows the detection and troubleshooting of issues arising from dynamic ad insertion, such as errors that cannot be identified through traditional monitoring methods. Service providers receive detailed reports on errors like blank screens, audio disruptions, stream crashes, buffering, and problems transitioning back to primary content.
Wohler Technologies’ eVAM1-1 provides monitoring capabilities for up to 16 channels of 3G-SDI audio and video. This is achieved within a 1U chassis featuring a 2.4 inch touch screen for switching between video, metering, and menu options. The eVAM1-1+ expands on this by incorporating an HDMI option card enabling HDMI input and output in addition to the standard SDI inputs.
