Harmonic virtualizes media server

April 1, 2019
Harmonic (NASDAQ:HLIT) has launched its virtualized Spectrum X solution, a software version of the company's media server running on ...

Harmonic (NASDAQ:HLIT) has launched its virtualized Spectrum X solution, a software version of the company's media server running on customer-provided hardware. It leverages commercial off-the-shelf (COTS) computing.

"Over the years, Harmonic's Spectrum X media server has set the standard for solid, robust ingest, playout and channel-in-a-box workflows. This software marks a new milestone for the Spectrum product line, giving media companies greater freedom of choice and more options for deployment in a fast-changing media landscape," said Tim Warren, senior vice president and chief technology officer, video business, at Harmonic. "Moving to the virtualized Spectrum X solution allows users to utilize their IT budgets to get the Harmonic-compatible hardware they need while still getting the benefits of the industry-leading Spectrum X platform."

The virtualized Spectrum X solution offers new features including HTML5 graphics and support for SDR/HDR conversion including tone mapping and tone expansion. Uncompressed video-over-IP is also featured, with SMPTE ST 2110 support for SD to UltraHD.

The product is designed to integrate any control system, including automation, MAM, PAM, transcode and QC. Open APIs for the conventional Spectrum appliances and the new virtualized Spectrum X are designed to enable control of media workflows under a single user interface to suit specific workflow requirements.

The virtualized Spectrum X solution supports all Spectrum storage options. Additionally, users of Harmonic's MediaGrid scalable shared storage and Spectrum X solution can now leverage IO-HSM (ingest and playout controlled hierarchical storage management). When enabled, IO-HSM uses media and connectivity to manage shared storage and protect it from network outages, data starvation and other issues that can impact shared storage environments. It adds protection to active playlists and includes those being managed by third-party control systems.