Omneon Video Networks today announced that PBS affiliate KPTS-TV in Wichita, Kan., is using an Omneon Spectrum™ media server system to support program playout as it transitions toward server-based storage, editing, and transmission operations. The Spectrum server system, in service since May, already has streamlined KPTS-TV’s playout workflow by reducing the station’s reliance on tape and improving access to stored media.

“The Omneon Spectrum server system stood out from competing solutions because it expands readily and can be reconfigured easily even after it’s been installed,” said KPTS-TV Director of Broadcast Operations Dave McClintock. “The system simplifies life for us now and down the road. It’s no small factor in my mind that PBS has chosen the same server solution for its ACE project. When we move toward a model based on file transfers, we won’t have to worry about file types or format conversions.”

A cost-effective and flexible media server designed for the professional television industry, the Omneon Spectrum media server provides KPTS-TV with a reliable and scalable infrastructure for playout and storage as it broadcasts its primary channel in analog and digital, and a second digital channel that provides informational and educational programming for adults. A third channel will launch in January, carrying children’s programming during the day and, the rest of the time, an alternative schedule of prime-time PBS programming.

The Omneon Spectrum system has made KPTS TV master control operations more efficient because staff handle fewer tapes and can play out material instantly rather than retrieving programming from a tape library. The open architecture of the Omneon server system allows it to support a broad variety of third-party applications for control and transmission, media management, archiving, and collaborative production. As KPTS-TV grows and its operations become more complex, the server system is expected to support all program and spot playout and to interface with the station’s Final Cut Pro editing systems to improve the production workflow.

KPTS TV installed the Omneon Spectrum server along with a new MicroFirst Digital Automation System (DAS). Under automation control, the server currently stores programs off satellite feeds and plays them out according to schedule. Eventually the new Omneon server system will take over all storage and playout from the facility’s VTRs and an older server system.

More information about Omneon server solutions is available at www.omneon.com.

About Omneon
Omneon is a leading provider of flexible media server and active storage systems that optimize workflow productivity and on-air reliability for the production, distribution, and management of digital media. Omneon is a pioneer in the use of advanced IT technologies and open systems for broadcast applications, producing a modular and expandable video server architecture in the Omneon Spectrum. The company's MediaGrid active storage system delivers centralized content storage that is scalable in capacity, bandwidth, and media-processing power. The company has an extensive global presence with customers in 45 countries on six continents. Omneon is on the Web at www.Omneon.com.

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