Ericsson unveils Next Generation Playout solution

A star attraction on the Ericsson stand at NAB Show 2014, Next Generation Playout gives Ericsson broadcast services customers access to major data centres worldwide, with signal distribution through hundreds of colocated carriers, distributors and connectivity providers. According to Ericsson, this connectivity network, coupled with a software-defined workflow, helps broadcasters to overcome the geographical dependencies that have previously limited playout.

In addition, Next Generation Playout enables faster time to market and a whole new set of over-the-top (OTT) and video on demand (VOD) distribution possibilities, as well as benefits such as increased flexibility, improved service delivery and reduced upfront and operating costs.

Thorsten Sauer, head of broadcast Services at Ericsson, comments: “Next Generation Playout gives broadcasters full access to the economies of scale and technical skills that a global company like Ericsson has to offer. With our global presence and connectivity expertise, we are well equipped to deliver high-quality Next Generation Playout services.”

Next Generation Playout can be monitored remotely and is available as either a managed or a hosted service. In the case of managed Next Generation Playout, operations are controlled by Ericsson, utilizing the infrastructure of our existing Global Service Centers. In the case of hosted Next Generation Playout, operations are controlled by broadcasters from their own premises using Ericsson-supplied broadcast desks and web interfaces. In the latter case, Ericsson will train the broadcaster to operate Next Generation Playout in line with customer requirements.