SECONDARY EVENTS

Sapphire incorporates an internal Logo key as a Secondary Event as well as GPI/O triggering for downstream effects supporting various downstream channel branding graphic engines like those available from PixelPower.

TRAFFIC INTEGRATION

Sapphire automatically imports a daily traffic list, converts it into a standard playlist format, and appends it to the existing playlist so seamless playout occurs. Following playout, an As-Run log is sent to traffic for reconcilia- tion. Alternatively, playlists can be created by conveniently dragging and dropping content into a playlist. Sapphire even provides full desktop previewing without the need for extra video server decoder ports.

With TOPAZ or INDIGO integrated into an existing Video server and Automation system environment, playlists can be read from traffic with content pulled into Sapphire to start playing out, while up-converting SD to HD and playing HD if it has it. Sapphire integrates into an existing infrastructure non-intrusively to create a real file based workflow.

CHANNEL-IN-A-BOX MODE

Since Masstech’s product line up includes CMS, Archiving, full MAM, ingesting and editing, a standalone Sapphire playout channel can also work with the XT-Ingest for baseband recording. It is simply powerful. Cost effective and file based. By adding TOPAZTM or our flag ship INDIGOTM MAM, all assets, from any delivery platform (including Avid or Apple) can be integrated and managed. When content is not there, Sapphire’s sophisticated logic is smart enough to play designated “evergreen” library content to guarantee that playout is never interrupted. This evergreen library can be updated daily, weekly or yearly. When Sapphire sees a “hole” in the playlist it intelligently goes to the library, finds the designated filler content to make sure playout isn’t cut short. Enhanced security features deliver complete and versatile administrative control for every user accessing Sapphire. Define specific resources and attributes within the system and each user’s rights are customized to meet only the requirements needed to perform their specific tasks.

FILE BASED LOGIC

Sapphire brings a true file based logic to broadcast playout design. Options to integrate base band ingest, QC, archiving, nearline disk storage, satellite delivered files and Avid or Apple FCP Production systems make it possible to create a complete file based workflow (see Application notes drawing). Sapphire has the option to provide an advance ‘play-ahead’ Channel for visual QC’ing and pre-viewing with the ability to provide pre-emptive alerts for missing content via email.

EXISTING ENVIRONMENT MODE

You don’t want to retire your existing automation system? Then use Sapphire’s VDCP control option, which is used by almost all automation solutions to control video servers. Adding another channel into an existing environment is a simple matter of mapping Sapphire as an additional SD/HD channel. Only SAPPHIRE allows you to start small or large, or start small and grow large and you don’t have to disrupt existing workflow.