Harmonic: Taking Broadcasting to the Next Level

The broadcast industry has never had a minute to get comfortable with technology. Despite being at the forefront of technology adoption, the industry has always been chasing newer, more efficient ways to transform digital content delivery and connectivity. Democratization of online broadcasting and access to high-speed technology has today allowed many providers to join the fray and increase competitiveness in the industry. Headquartered in San Jose, California, Harmonic (NASDAQ: HLIT) is a facilitator of change in the broadcasting industry and is driving a major transformation. The company offers a comprehensive suite of cloud-native, virtualized cable access network solutions, enabling video, cable, and media companies across the world to deliver faster and more seamless broadcasting.

Harmonic has built a rich legacy in the broadcasting industry, spanning over 25 years. With offices in over 25 locations and more than 1500 leading experts on board, the company is the solution partner of choice for 5000+ global media companies. Harmonic's solutions use cutting-edge broadcast and video streaming appliances developed in-house to offer ultra-high-quality video broadcasting capabilities to companies anywhere in the world. From media processing and distribution to contribution and playout, clients can choose from an array of on-premise and hybrid solutions designed to meet their unique requirements. Their all-IP workflows help monetize live and Video OnDemand content too.

The recently launched virtualized Spectrum X solution is the software version of the company’s market-leading media server that runs on customer-provided hardware.

It provides users with access to more workflows than the Spectrum X media server did.The new Spectrum X software offers HTML5 graphics and can support Standard Dynamic Range (SDR)/High Dynamic Range (HDR) conversion, including tone mapping and tone expansion. Uncompressed video-over-IP is also featured, with SMPTE ST 2110 support for Standard Definition to Ultra-High Definition (UHD). Harmonic's broadcast and video streaming servers create the immersive viewing experiences that audiences expect today.

The VOS360 Channel Origination and Distribution Platform from Harmonic is now available with groundbreaking features to deliver high-demand live video streaming. Powered by a single control platform and a multi-tiered, multi-Content Delivery Network (CDN) architecture, this new functionality leverages Harmonic's existing partnerships with third-party CDNs and video delivery nodes. Its multiple delivery paths will enable telco, cable, and mobile operators to offer users premium live video streaming economically, which will further help them expand their business rapidly.

Harmonic’s public cloud support extends to the delivery of Dolby Vision® HDR live content, drastically improving live broadcast and streaming UHD HDR solutions. Dolby Vision's integration with the VOS® cloud streaming platform and XOS software-based appliance guarantees the highest video streaming quality and enhanced viewing experiences across a range of consumer devices. “UHD HDR is a quantum leap forward in picture quality, and Dolby Vision has become the standard for delivering more realistic, compelling and immersive video experiences,” said Stephane Cloirec, Vice President, Video Appliances, at Harmonic. “Supporting Dolby Vision demonstrates our commitment to streamlining and democratizing UHD HDR live delivery, helping operators embrace the UHD HDR revolution and bring outstanding video experiences to consumers.” With this, cloud streaming SaaS and software-based solutions can reduce costs for streaming providers and broadcasters by streamlining and automating live HDR video delivery.

Harmonic’s broadcasting solutions are recognized globally. Their groundbreaking work on AI optimization for real-time video compression and development of an event signaling and management API won them two Technology and Engineering Emmy Awards from the distinguished National Academy of Television Arts and Sciences (NATAS). With cutting-edge software-based appliances, cloud-native applications, and innovative approach to broadcasting, Harmonic’s solutions are continuously disrupting the status quo—transforming the way media companies and service providers deliver and monetize digital on-demand content.