Channel in a Box...... At IBC 2013

Channel in a box or CIB for short. Or even called an ICD integrated channel device. Whatever the label, the aim of the game is to provide the same levels of service currently found in traditional broadcast chains, plus quality, device capability, flexibility and reliability all from this 1 box.  All of which should be cheaper to put into service and maintain than the current models which have been in place for some years.




I keep reading the phrase play out out providers are 'experimenting' with this new way of delivering programming and launching new channels at the drop of a hat, albeit at an competitive rate in these harsh economic times.

When does the experimenting stop?

Surely now we have got to a stage in product development that these types of product have reached a tipping point. Providing quality and reliable programming output that delivers against the most strictest of service level agreements. It is reported that the long held fears of the server reliability is now a distant memory with both server and software improvements.  I actually believe that with the decline of the linear transmission model, less and less capital will be available and so CIBs offer a suitable solution going forward. To quote Senior Product Manager Karl Mehring at the UK Based Snell Group

"More of today’s consumers expect to view content when and where it’s convenient and on the device of their choosing,” Mehring said. “These market dynamics are forcing broadcasters to offer a broader range of services without a commensurate increase in revenue per service to finance the supporting infrastructure.  Out of these requirements has emerged the concept of a “channel in a box,” a turnkey broadcast production system that combines master control and playout functions into a single, compact unit. By reducing the number of complex, high-maintenance systems in a production workflow, a CIB solution offers great potential for helping broadcasters run a leaner and more nimble operation." Source Broadcast Engineering

At IBC this year it will be interesting to see the huge number of companies offering a channel in box solution. From the well established automation companies such as Snell offering ICE, Harris Broadcast offering VERSIO and recently Pebble Beach offering Stingray. Grass Valley with the GV Edge , Plus a number of others from Oasys, Miranda, Pixel Power......  The list is endless.

Each CIB has the fundamentals, plus a layer of unique features and benefits that sets them apart from the competition.

Who ends up being the market leader and preferred vendor? Time will tell and to be honest whoever that vendor is, they are set to do rather well! As the global channel-in-a-box market is estimated to grow from $43.4 million in 2012 to $146 million in 2017.

Who has the best CIB product in you opinion?
	Snell
	Harris
	Grass Valley
	Evertz
	Pixel Power
	PlayBox
	HARDATA Smart Server
	Harmonic
	Pebble Beach
	Oasys
	Florical
	Miranda
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