Key ATEME role in world’s first 4K cable channel

Homechoice, a South Korean content aggregator, selected ATEME’s TITAN to encode Ultra High Definition (UHD) content in HEVC for the launch of UMAX, the world’s first dedicated 4K channel. TITAN was selected for its picture quality (using 32mbps for 4Kp60) and for its compatibility with embedded decoders in today¹s popular TV brands.

UMAX launched on 10 April as the first UHD cable channel in the world, broadcast in 4Kp60 (2160×3840 pixel resolution with 60 frames per second). TITAN is ATEME¹s next generation TV Head-End, a realtime multi-channel/format encoder/transcoder for multi-screen delivery of linear channels and video-on-demand.

By leveraging the HEVC decoding capabilities built into UHDTV compatible televisions — and downloading an application to decrypt UMAX on their TV — cable television subscribers across South Korea will have access to the most recent UHD content. The initial launch of UMAX will include 40 original programmes, a mix of films, documentaries and animation, which will run from 6a.m. to 2 a.m. KST. Homechoice plans to increase its offering to 100 programmes by the end of 2014.

UMAX is funded and distributed by all South-Korean MSOs (CJ Hellovision, C&M, T-Broad and HCN) and is available at no additional charge to subscribers in 2014. Eunsook Wi, APAC regional manager, ATEME said: “With the integration of HEVC capabilities into UHDTV television sets, and a cable channel that will provide consumers with the capability to enjoy this advanced technology today, cable programmers around the world will be watching the launch of UMAX with great interest. We are proud to be a part of the worldwide launch of the first 4K cable channel.”