Harmonic Adds MPEG-4 Encoder

SUNNYVALE, Calif. -- Harmonic Inc. (NASDAQ: HLIT) today 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™ 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."

Harmonic Inc. (Nasdaq: HLIT)