Sony is unveiling its newest high-definition videoconferencing technology, the PCS-XG55 system, designed to bring flexible, high-quality and affordable visual communications to a range of commercial applications, including corporate, education, healthcare and government.
The new system delivers up to 720p/60 fps resolution for superb live video quality and a very natural alternative to face-to-face meetings. It includes the PCS-XG55S HD codec unit, the PCSA-CXG80 HD camera unit, PCS-A1 microphone and PCS-RF1 RF remote commander.
“This newest HD system delivers high-quality video and audio for corporate organisations, educational institutions, government agencies, or any organisation looking for cost-effective, proven communication technologies,” said Owen Patmore, managing member for Dynamic Communications' videoconferencing division.
“This technology allows people to engage 'face-to-face', without incurring the financial and personnel costs of business travel.” It provides backward-compatibility with current models in Sony's videoconferencing line, and also offers users a range of unique features.
The new system has the ability to deliver higher image quality and smooth video motion by using innovative BrightFace camera technology. The system's high-frame rate and high-resolution codec (1280x720 60fps/30fps) includes a newly developed real-time adaptive contrast optimisation technology that uses brightness information in each pixel and optimises the contrast in an image's bright and dark parts separately. This is a key factor in creating clear pictures and optimal colour tone for a range of room environments, including low-light and backlit situations.
The system also offers more effective collaboration tools, with H.239 dual stream capability. As a result, both video and presentation data can be transferred smoothly at 30fps, and users can send H.264 720/30p and H.264 XGA/30fps streams simultaneously. Both live camera view and animated PowerPoint data, for example, can be displayed in HD on two different screens or projectors at a remote site.
A “Video Annotation” function allows users to clearly point out specific parts in an image by simply writing on a tablet (requires an optional third-party pen tablet input device). Advanced audio capabilities deliver clear and natural-sounding stereo audio (MPEG-4 AAC-LC and AAC-LD Stereo 22kHz for AUX input; MPEG-4 AAC-LC and AAC-LD Stereo 14kHz for MIC input). It also supports embedded stereo and mono echo-cancelling functions, and enables remote communication playback of high-quality formats such as Super Audio CD.
Other features include easier operation with “one-touch dialling” from the RF remote commander, dual- and single-monitor modes and an intuitive GUI with a translucent cascading menu architecture. In addition, Intelligent QOS control greatly reduces video artefacts caused by packet loss regardless of transmission distance by applying three methods adaptively in accordance with network conditions: adaptive FEC (forward error correction); real-time ARQ (automatic repeat reQuest); and ARC (adaptive rate control).
The PCS-XG55 system will be available in June, at a very economical price point. The system will be available in the South Africa through Dynamic Communications, a Sony Electronics distributor and servicer for its IPELA line of IP and ISDN based videoconferencing endpoints and accessory products in South Africa. Dynamic Communications can be reached at 087 751 9517 or contact Owen Patmore @ 082 354 4369, by e-mail: sales@dynamiccom.co.za or by visiting http://www.dynamiccom.co.za.
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