First Linux-based MPEG-2 Encoding Solution With DolbyÆ Certification Announced By Zapex

A new high performance Linux-based MPEG-2/DolbyÆ Digital encoder for satellite, video server, Digital Video Broadcast (DVB), and cable applications, priced considerably lower than other solutions, has been introduced by Zapex Technologies. Gary Marsh, Vice President of Sales and Marketing, said, ""The new ZL-330 is a remarkably powerful digital encoding tool for Linux systems. It simultaneously compresses video and audio into MPEG 2 and DolbyÆ Digital data streams then multiplexes these into a single transport-stream. ""To multiplex video and audio on a single PCI card is a significant engineering achievement, eliminating lip-sync concerns inherent with separate component systems. We are the first company to achieve Dolby certification for this type of encoder."" All encode functions are performed by the ZL-330, achieving minimum utilization of the CPU and memory. The new product joins the other Zapex family of MPEG encoders which are designed for WindowsNT platforms. ""Linux is a robust platform, perfect for delivering mission-critical network services,"" stated Shun Masuda, Vice President of Technology, ""especially since Linux is not limited to specific hardware configurations. The ZL-330 is an open solution that is easily integrated with a variety of interface cards such as a SMPTE-310, TCP/IP, or DVB-ASI, and compatible with standard, cost-effective, computers,"" added Masuda. ""Our goal is to provide customers with the capability to better utilize their existing bandwidth while maximizing video output,"" continued Marsh. ""The ZL-330 processes incoming video signals by combining our patented encoding algorithms with our proprietary Adaptive Filtering techniques, to optimize noise reduction and achieve the highest quality video at the lowest bit rates. Having a powerful encoder with these features and quality has been cost prohibitive for most companies. Now those seeking to move from analog to digital will have an economical path to an encoder with these capabilities, priced less than $9,000."" Pre-production units are currently being field tested. General availability of the ZL-330 begins early April 2000. About Zapex Technologies Inc.Zapex Technologies Inc., a company of Brother International, and a leader in compression technology, designs and manufactures MPEG encoding systems for PC platforms, providing digital video and audio solutions for networking, broadband and storage applications. The company's US headquarters are located in Mountain View, California, and can be contacted at 650 930 1300, 650 930 1399 fax or through the Web at www.zapex.net.