Concurrent announces a new software release for its MediaHawk line of video servers. The release is SCTE-130 compliant and features many new functionality and capacity enhancements, most notably play list support enabling advanced advertising.

The SCTE-130 standard supports a unified platform for addressable advertising, providing inventory and placement definitions, while merging content and subscriber metadata for targeting zones - or, in a unicast environment, for targeting individuals. Concurrent has already upgraded many of its Everstream data collection and management products to comply with SCTE- 130 standards. With the addition of play list support to the MediaHawk video server, Concurrent can now supply an end-to-end solution supporting targeted ad insertion, ad bumpering and ad replacement.

The new MediaHawk software release also includes client interface protocols supporting ETV/EBIF, web client and tru2way platforms. These interface protocols enabled recent interoperability trials at CableLabs, where Concurrent demonstrated collaborative solutions with BIAP, INVIDI and This Technology.

Other features included in the latest MediaHawk software release include:

• NGOD and ISA compatibility, ensuring compatibility between VOD component vendors
• Improved stream, storage and ingest density
  • 2,400 SD streams per MediaHawk 4500
  • 120 SD channels per Real Time Pitcher / Catcher
  • 3,300 SD hours of content per MediaStore 2000
• HTTP progressive download in support of IPTV and Internet-based video applications
• Tiered asset management optimizing content placement within a storage complex based on content usage patterns
• Enhanced support of time-shifted television
• Greater flexibility in providing multiple trick mode speeds
• RTP encapsulation/DVB retransmission allowing greater quality of service in lower quality network environments

The newest release of MediaHawk software is available for order now, with shipments scheduled to start in January 2009. It is compatible with Concurrent's MediaHawk 4000 and 4500 video servers.