Ross Video has amalgamated its Acuity switcher with its Ultrix routing and AV processing platform to produce what it calls a “Hyper Converged Production Platform” – the Ultrix Acuity.
The Ultrix Acuity platform hyper converges the functionality of the two Ross solutions to create a “complete, future-proof solution that is truly greater than the sum of its parts”. Ultrix Acuity takes routing, audio mixing, multiViewers, trays of frame syncs and audio embedders/de-embedders – all solutions that have traditionally filled multiple equipment racks – and compresses them all down to a single 5RU chassis. Ultrix Acuity is therefore suitable for environments such as OB vans and mobile units. With 2RU of rack-mounted redundant power, the result is a complete system in 7RU that eliminates the need for multiple racks, complex cabling and control system integrations.
The Software Defined Production Engine – SDPE – from Ross removes the need for costly ‘forklift’ upgrades by providing base hardware that can grow via convenient software licenses.
The flexible architecture of Ultrix Acuity means that format and connectivity challenges are not an issue. USers can, for example, transition from HD to UHD with a simple software license; mix SDI and IP sources in the same frame transparently; and use sophisticated tie-line management tools to incorporate the system into a larger distributed routing fabric. Ultrix Acuity also reduces power, cooling, maintenance, and support costs. In addition, Ultrix Acuity can become one node of a larger distributed routing environment, reducing the incremental cost of adding I/O and further production switchers.
Commenting on the new platform, Nigel Spratling, VP of Production Switchers, pointed to an ongoing emphasis on workflow efficiency.
“Our customers have been focused on increasing efficiencies, reducing costs and embracing new signal transport and management schemes. By bringing together an entire suite of necessary production solutions, we’re providing an answer to this need and delivering a compelling new platform that works for 2021 and beyond,” he said.