Harmonic Inc. introduced the DiviCom Electra 5400, a third generation MPEG-4 AVC (H.264) standard definition (SD) encoder that further extends Harmonic's market leading multi-service family of compression systems. Delivering up to four full resolution SD channels in a one rack-unit package, as well as simultaneous low resolution content for picture-in-picture (PiP), mobile video services or other applications, the Electra 5400 is ideal for massive deployments of telco/IPTV, satellite and DVB-T services. The new encoder utilizes Harmonic's advanced processing engine to provide best-in-class picture quality and sets a new standard for bandwidth efficiency in SD H.264 with bit-rates more than 30 percent lower than H.264 encoders deployed today.

Over the past two years, Harmonic's highly successful DiviCom Electra and Ion multi-channel platforms have been deployed by many of the world's leading operators to power nearly 8,000 channels. Incorporating advanced technologies developed by Harmonic including a new silicon architecture, unique video pre-processing and full multi-pass LookAhead(TM) compression, the Electra 5400 builds upon this strong foundation to deliver next-generation H.264 services with superior video quality at ultra-low bit-rates.

"Using IP-based technology in the network gives video service providers much greater flexibility and scalability," said Tom Lattie, Product Line Manager for SD Encoders at Harmonic Inc. "The field-proven, native IP output and management capabilities built into the Harmonic DiviCom encoders, combined with DiviTrackIP distributed statistical multiplexing and encryption, offer a unique and high quality solution for operators of all types. The new Electra 5400 meets critical requirements for provisioning a greater number and variety of services via a range of devices, by minimizing bit-rates while delivering superior quality video for applications including full resolution TV, PiP, video to the PC and mobile video such as DVB-H."

In addition, the density of the Electra 5400 allows operators to minimize the number of systems required in the headend infrastructure, thereby reducing capital and operating expenditures. Harmonic's high performance solutions such as the new Electra 5400 provide operators with the versatility, scalability and efficiency needed to deliver a revolutionary new video experience. Easily integrated as part of a distributed IP-based statistical multiplex using Harmonic's innovative DiviTrackIP solution, the Electra 5400 operating in variable bit-rate (VBR) mode can further enhance service-carrying capacity.

The DiviCom Electra 5400 multi-service encoder will be featured at Harmonic's booth (#1.361) at the upcoming IBC exhibition in Amsterdam, The Netherlands from September 8-12. First customer shipments are scheduled to begin in September.