Harmonic unveils its DiviCom Ion MPEG-4 AVC (H.264) HD encoder, a powerful new solution that delivers outstanding value to operators by providing superior HD video quality for constant bit-rate digital video services. The IP-based encoding solution delivers an optimized price to performance ratio and is ideally suited for IPTV deployments as well as other switched video delivery applications.

The most dense and cost-effective solution available in its class, the DiviCom Ion AVC HD encoder packs four HD H.264 channels and up to four low resolution picture-in-picture (PiP) channels in a compact, one rack-unit (1-RU) chassis. At less than 75 watts per channel, the DiviCom Ion consumes less power than other alternatives. The result is a more environmentally friendly product delivering outstanding performance while reducing costs and rack space requirements for operators.

Harmonic’s DiviCom FLEX video and audio decoding module can be easily integrated into the Ion AVC HD platform, enabling full decode and re-encode capabilities from any IP or ASI source within the Ion chassis, a key capability as service providers transition to all-IP headend architectures. The Ion AVC HD solution employs an advanced video compression engine with multi-pass LookAhead encoding to deliver broadcast quality HD at ultra-low bit rates.

The DiviCom Ion AVC HD solution provides a targeted feature-set in-line with the requirements of telcos and others interested in adding a high quality HD video service to their line-up. The AVC solution maximizes network capacity and reduces bit-rates, enabling operators to roll out more HD programming and other advanced services. Additional benefits include flexible video, audio, and VBI format handling, support for multiple audio formats, and seamless management and control via Harmonic’s NMX Digital Service Manager.

Harmonic’s Ion AVC HD encoder and full range of IP-based compression solutions — spanning a diverse portfolio of encoding, re-encoding, transcoding and statistical multiplexing technologies — will be on display at Harmonic’s stand #1.C61 at IBC 2008 in Amsterdam, taking place from September 12-16.