EGT Redefines Digital Edge Local Channel Insertion with New Added Features Exclusive to HEMi

EGT Integrates RF Bypass and Intelligent QAM Protection for Critical Functionality in the HEMi Edge Video Processor
SCTE Cable-Tec Expo 2007
Booth #2156

ATLANTA--(BUSINESS WIRE)--EGT, providing the most comprehensive video processing technology for digital networks, today introduced new exclusive features to their line of HEMi (Headend Micro) edge video processor products. These new features include an integrated RF Bypass switch, Intelligent QAM Protection and integration with the new ORCHESTRA™ SPDr element manager enabling better management of headend class equipment in the field. In addition to the new product features, EGT upgraded the user interface and improved overall usability of the HEMi.

The industry’s first digital local channel insertion device, EGT’s HEMi enables operators to roll out their all-digital system by converting highly localized analog channels required for public, education and government (PEG) use or in multiple dwelling unit (MDU) buildings and closed communities. The HEMi continues to surpass customer expectations, building a more robust solution for today’s tough, remote environments.

“HEMi’s integrated RF Bypass switch ensures that the integrity of the network feed is maintained thru the device even during a failure or maintenance activity,” said Heath Peyton, HEMi Product Line Manager at EGT. “Operators cannot afford device failure while controlling upwards of 14 revenue generating channels. By providing a failsafe mechanism in the HEMi, even when the device is out-of-service, the network channels are unaffected. “

EGT incorporated direct customer feedback in developing HEMi’s new features to address both mission critical functions as well as advanced usability requirements, ensuring the device meets the growing demands of service providers. The integrated RF Bypass switch protects the network feed against interruption, including service activities or even power outages. While the locally inserted channels are affected, the network signal passes through HEMi intact to the subscribers. Intelligent QAM Protection also defends the network channels from possible bandwidth over provisioning. If the operator unintentionally over provisions the QAM channel or if there is an over-burst in bit rate, the quality of all the channels in the QAM could become seriously impacted. HEMi’s Intelligent QAM Protection defends against that degradation by momentarily dropping the locally inserted channel during the spike, returning the channel immediately afterward.

HEMi is also now integrated into EGT’s element management system, ORCHESTRA SPDr, allowing for remote device management of all edge video processors deployed in closed communities or MDUs (multiple dwelling units) throughout a system’s footprint. From one headend location and with one management license, SPDr can control thousands of remote HEMi devices. SPDr enables the cable operator to remotely monitor, manage and upgrade all EGT devices on the network all the way down to the customer premise. With SPDr, the operator has full visibility of each HEMi in the field and can enable or disable local channels, monitor temperature and create customizable alarms or traps. The new, more robust HEMi is also easier to use with remote management, SNMP support, and enhanced user interface with front panel controls.

EGT’s HEMi products are fully integrated and cost efficient solutions. They are multi-channel encoders, multiplexers, modulators and upconverters used for insertion of local channels in both headends and closed community applications. These applications include converting video from front-gate cameras, parking garage cameras, special event calendars, text generators and community news channels to digital streams for the specific MDU location, saving local cable operators valuable bandwidth that in turn can be allocated to additional advanced services.

About EGT

Headquartered in Atlanta, EGT provides the most comprehensive video processing technology for digital networks, including today’s leading multiple system operators and telecommunications companies across the globe. With an employee base dominated by engineering PhD’s, the company’s patented technologies are changing the industry’s approach to architecting digital video encoding equipment. All of EGT’s video processors are multi-functional, flexible, and scalable making EGT’s technology the ideal digital simulcast, VOD and IP TV solution available anywhere today. EGT’s ENCORE (premium MPEG-2 encoder with embedded cascade multiplexing and DPI) and HEMi (Head End Micro edge encoder) deliver the most powerful capabilities in programmable open platforms, allowing video service providers to leverage existing infrastructure to meet the needs of their rapidly changing video marketplace.

For more information about EGT and its unique video processing solutions, please visit www.egtinc.com.