SAM: Snell Advanced Media

Exciting new technologies optimize viewing experience and bring unprecedented flexibility to live production

NAB 2014, Booth N1820 — April 6, 2014 — Snell today announced its dynamic pan-and-scan technology, a new feature that will help optimize consumers’ viewing experience and support the transition to 4K capture for broadcast and video production organizations. The technology will be part of the Snell Kahuna 360 production switcher demo taking place on Booth N1820, alongside the groundbreaking new Kahuna Maverik switcher control surface that makes its US debut.

Building on many of Snell’s unique technologies, dynamic pan-and-scan will provide broadcasters with the unprecedented ability to analyze video content and optimize pan/scan location on a frame-by-frame basis. It automates the identification of the dynamic center of interest in a video source, helping to optimize both studio and mobile television programming.

Specifically, dynamic pan-and-scan helps directors:

• Perform aspect ratio conversions where the use of black bars, or the loss of important storytelling content, is minimized automatically
• Facilitate the transition to 4K capture by driving the extraction of appropriate regions of interest for 3G/HD/SD productions
• Maximize the viewing experience of mobile users by appropriately zooming in on the action
• Work more effectively within both file and live streaming contexts

“The viewing experience has become more important than ever as consumers demand high-quality video on every screen whether a mobile device or an ultra high-def television,” noted Robert Rowe, MD Live Television at Snell. “With the introduction of this new pan-and-scan technology, we will be helping ensure the highest quality output possible for consumers.”

Another highlight of the live production demo at NAB is Kahuna Maverik, the new control surface that provides unprecedented freedom in panel design, allowing total customization to suit every type of production. Whether it’s Sports, Light Entertainment, Music, News or House of Worship, Kahuna Maverik can be set out exactly as required for effortless productions, bringing maximum functionality to minimal space and even allowing panel configuration to be changed on a production-by-production basis.

Visitors to the live production area on Snell’s booth, #N1820 at NAB can see dynamic pan-and-scan in action, along with 4K demos of Kahuna360 with the new Maverik panel, including full 4K wipes plus animated transitions all from the 4K capable internal clipstore.In addition, there will also be a full demo of the low cost Kahuna Flare switcher.