Press Release

TORONTO, Ontario -- Sony of Canada Ltd., Canada's leading electronic and computer products solutions provider for consumers and business, announced the introduction of the PCS-HG90, a High-Definition codec that is suitable for applications that require real-time, low delay, two-way visual communication from remote locations.
 
Using the H.323 standard, the PCS-HG90 can support interaction between up to four sites simultaneously over an IP (Internet Protocol) network. MPEG4-AVC coding makes efficient use of the bandwidth and offers a low-delay connection between different sites. This makes the PCS-HG90 suitable for live coverage, interviews and remote reporting in HD video quality with high-quality audio.

The PCS-HG90 supports the H.264 HD video protocol with compression of 1280 X 720 at 30P or 60P, and a network video transfer bandwidth of up to 8 Mbps (megabits per second) using the H.323 standard for communication. The system can also deliver MPEG-4 AAC wideband stereo audio with stereo echo cancelling capabilities. The PCS-HG90 delivers a high number of connectivity options to meet the needs of professional users. Its extensive range of professional audio and video interfaces includes HD-SDI, component, RGB, S-Video and XLR. The codec is rack-mountable with optional side-rail brackets.

An internal multipoint control unit (MCU) supports visual communications connectivity among four sites with site name display and full-screen views possible in broadcast and voice activation modes.

An unparalleled mix of enhanced and intelligent QoS (Quality of Service) functions ensures that the quality of the connection is maintained even under fluctuating network conditions. To prevent eavesdropping on your content by a third party, the system supports 128-bit AES (advanced encryption standard) compliant with the ITU-T H.235 standard.

Two VISCA camera control outputs are also available via the RS-232C protocol for remote operation at up to 15 metres, with an RS-422 conversion for longer distances. Remote control is also possible through a Web-based interface and with the HG90 remote commander.

Additional user convenience is provided through MemoryStick® support for storing and loading set-up parameters, upgrading system software as well as installing optional software and saving still pictures.

The Sony HD codec can also be used across a diverse range of applications beyond broadcasting and content creation.

Hospitals can connect multiple facilities via HD videoconferencing, which enables surgeons in remote locations to view operating room procedures, consult with colleagues or conduct virtual lectures and training seminars. Educational institutions can use the system's distance learning capabilities to link campuses and reach more students at the same time.

Organizations that require fast review of material or client approvals, such as advertising and design agencies, can employ the technology to transmit high-resolution data and receive feedback immediately. Manufacturing facilities can also share product mock-ups or design ‘comps' among several locations for simultaneous review.

"The Sony HD codec offers the best of both HD and IP and gives users the ability to view larger than life images in real-time with natural colour reproduction and without the loss of even the most minute details," said Rick Perkins, Product Manager, Videoconferending, ASD Marketing, Broadcast Communication Solutions Group, Sony of Canada Ltd. "For businesses, this opens up a whole new world of applications beyond traditional videoconferencing; for broadcasters, it enables content to be shared with multiple sources at the same, which reduces both review and approval time."

The PCS-HG90 codec is available today.

About The Broadcast Communication Solutions Group

The Broadcast Communication Solutions (BCS) Group is a division of Sony of Canada Ltd., headquartered in Toronto, Ontario. BCS Group markets and supports Sony's full range of broadcast, professional video and audio equipment, including high definition video, interactive and security applications for the broadcast, production, business, industry, government, medical and education sectors through a network of authorized systems integrators.

About Sony of Canada Ltd.

Established in 1955, Sony of Canada Ltd. is a wholly-owned subsidiary of Sony Corporation of Tokyo, Japan, a world leader in the manufacture and marketing of electronic and computer products for consumer, business, electronics publishing and multimedia applications on a global scale. With headquarters in Toronto, sales offices in Vancouver and Montreal and distribution centres in Coquitlam, British Columbia, and Whitby, Ontario, approximately 1,000 employees support about 78 Sony stores and a network of more than 500 authorized dealers across Canada.

For further information, please visit us at www.sony.ca, www.thesonystore.ca, www.sonybiz.ca or www.sonystyle.ca, Sony's product information and e-commerce Web site, or contact:

John B. Challinor II   APR   
General Manager, Advertising  
& Corporate Communications   
Sony of Canada Ltd.    
(416) 495-3740    
john_challinor@sony.ca

Michelle Cowan Lefler
Account Executive,   
Technology Practice
Silverhammer Public Relations
(416) 324-2024
michelle_cowan_lefler@ca.cohnwolfe.com