MBC selects SGL Flashnet to provide archive support for HD channel launch

MBC Group has installed Software Generation Ltd (SGL) FlashNet as part of its new digital workflow to support the launch of its bouquet of HD channels.

The Dubai-based broadcaster selected SGL FlashNet because of its Open System architecture, which provides compatibility with MBC’s broadcast, storage and server systems as well as its proven maturity as a broadcast archive management system.

MBC used SGL’s XML-based API, which allows broadcast vendors to create integrated applications that can instantly access the SGL content storage management system.

“Through the use of SGL’s API, we’re able to connect via our portal system to search and retrieve archived material allowing us to seamlessly provision content throughout our archive,” said Ali Radhi, MBC, head of IT.

The SGL FlashNet archive at MBC interfaces with systems from major suppliers including Pebble Beach, Omneon, Avid and Microsoft. It allows the broadcaster to create dynamic watch folders within its nearline storage. When Items have been broadcast they’re moved to the watch folders to be archived.

Additionally advance schedule information is available via Microsoft SharePoint. Armed with this information users are able to restore content required for transmission ahead of time directly from the SharePoint environment.

“The SGL system significantly improves our workflow procedures allowing the automation of many archiving tasks as well as the seamless and transparent retrieval of archived content,” added Radhi.

 “We’re delighted to make this announcement at CABSAT further highlighting our strong commitment to the Middle East market. SGL’s open approach to integration has made expansions projects like this much simpler for broadcasters worldwide,” said Trevor Morecraft, regional sales manager EMEA, SGL.