RGB Networks is bringing out a more-compact member of its Video Multiprocessing Gateway (VMG) family -- designed to let operators deliver live TV streams to multiple IP-based devices -- while also boosting the capacity of its transcoding module.
The new VMG-8 is a seven-rack-unit chassis, with the ability to handle up to 60 SD or HD inputs and 240 adaptive-bit-rate outputs. The product is geared for small and midsize "TV Everywhere" deployments compared with the 13-RU VMG-14, which provides up to 132 SD or HD inputs and 528 outputs.
In a fully redundant configuration the VMG 8 can be equipped with three video transcoder modules, one audio transcoder module and a single controller module for transcoding programs to more than 140 streams for delivery to any IP-enabled device. In this redundant configuration, each module type has a back-up which can take over operation should the primary fail.
"With operators going live with TV Everywhere IP video services, it's becoming clear that consumer usage and the growing number of end user devices is putting a significant strain on network equipment to keep up with the demand," RGB director of product marketing Brian Johnson said. "In consultation with our customers, we have developed the VMG‑8 to address their desire for increased capacity, scalability and reliability, while still minimizing rack space and power requirements."
Both the VMG 8 (which holds up to eight modules) and the VMG 14 (up to 14 modules) support RGB's Application Media Platform (AMP) module, a Linux-based blade for real-time audio transcoding based on technology acquired via Ripcode.
The VMG 8 also provides backup power supplies and cooling fans, which automatically take over in the event a primary unit fails. In addition, it can be powered by either AC or DC integrated power supplies and consumes just 15 watts per HD input compared with 150 watts for software-based encoders, according to the company.
RGB has not announced customers for the VMG adaptive streaming but claimed it is currently deployed in tests with "friendlies" in tier 1 cable and telco operators in North America and internationally.
RGB sells a separate product, the TransAct Packager, an adaptive streaming solution that ingests video programs encoded at different bit rates and outputs them packaged in the Apple HTTP Live Streaming, Microsoft Smooth Streaming and Adobe HTTP Dynamic Streaming formats.
Sunnyvale, Calif.-based RGB has received $63 million from Accel Partners, Comcast Interactive, Focus Ventures, Granite Ventures, Institutional Venture Partners, Kleiner Perkins Caufield and Byers, and Mitsui & Co. Venture Partners.
