Harris Corp. Announces Workflow Enhancements to QuiC Media-Analysis Server

Harris has announced powerful enhancements to its Videotek QuiC media-analysis server, a fully automated, file-based test-and-measurement tool that verifies the quality of compressed digital files before the content is distributed. The system’s ability to process content automatically, and at speeds much faster than real time, results in a cost-effective tool that enables new and more efficient quality-control workflows.

The latest QuiC software update (Version 1.7) includes a new Multi-box management feature that enables the analysis server to be pointed to external drop boxes (folders) in any Windows-compatible server network. With the Multi-box feature, workflows can be created via a configuration wizard. For example, files can be automatically moved from the “failed” outbox of one analyzer to an “auto-correct” inbox of a second analyzer. QuiC reviews and reports the results of “passed” content and sends the necessary files to a correction server for resolution of any of the numerous detectable faults — without manual intervention. Furthermore, files can now be moved to a designated inbox or outbox for QuiC analysis and correction via the Harris Intelligent Media Mover workflow-management application.

“Quality-control operators are under more pressure than ever to guarantee the integrity of digital files before playout and ensure content is reaching viewers with excellent quality,” says Tim Thorsteinson, president of Harris Broadcast Communications. “QuiC virtually eliminates the potential for human error, as it can automatically detect, report, and repair files within the server network with very little human intervention.”

Harris also continues its commitment to interoperability, and QuiC is designed to meet the needs of any broadcast file-based application, from program origination and play-to-air to satellite/cable distribution and archival. New additions to QuiC Version 1.7 include support for file analysis in multiple industry formats — including GXF (General eXchange Format), MXF, LXF. and QuickTime. Support for Sony XDCAM HD, Avid DNxHD, MPEG-4/H.264, and MPEG-2 software codecs are also included.

Other new key features in QuiC Version 1.7 include e-mail notification, which automatically alerts the operator when files fail to process; time-code detection, which detects SMPTE-formatted time-code data and works with MXF, GXF, or MOV files; and closed-captioning (CC) detection, which alerts operators when thresholds have been exceeded.

“With QuiC, broadcasters have a more efficient method of content analysis, in many different formats, prior to distribution,” says Thorsteinson. “And when used in concert with other Harris solutions, including the NEXIO server and media-management solutions, QuiC delivers operational benefits unlike any other digital media management system.”

Additional information about Harris Corp. is available at www.harris.com.