#USA #San Jose #Harmonic #NESN #Fenway Sports

NESN Partners with Harmonic to Transform Live Sports Delivery

New England Sports Network (NESN), one of the leading regional sports networks, has embarked on an innovative journey to enhance its live sports delivery system through a strategic partnership with Harmonic Inc. This collaboration is supported by Astound Business Solutions, and together, they aim to redefine the experience of watching live sports by leveraging cutting-edge technology.

Transformative Technology for Enhanced Viewing

Harmonic, a globally recognized leader in video delivery solutions and publicly traded on NASDAQ as HLIT, provides NESN with its advanced primary distribution solution. This includes the award-winning XOS Advanced Media Processor and the DMS X Distribution Management System, which collectively empower NESN to deliver pristine-quality video to approximately four million households. With this technology, the network not only enhances the quality of its broadcasts but also explores efficiency in monetizing its live sports content.

Kenny Elcock, NESN's Vice President of Technology, explains, “Harmonic's XOS media processor offers a robust and dependable infrastructure for distributing sports content to our affiliates. This software-based solution has positioned us for immediate success while allowing us to incorporate advanced features in the future.” He highlighted the flexibility and potential of the new system in providing innovative advertising solutions, adding that the edge application of this technology would present exciting revenue opportunities for NESN.

Game-Changing Features and Efficient Distribution

Harmonic's primary distribution solution is designed to securely deliver live sports content to various affiliates, ranging from cable to telco and video streaming providers, utilizing managed IP and open internet delivery networks. With the implementation of this technology, NESN can ensure remarkable video quality by utilizing AI-powered EyeQ™ technology, which optimizes cost by achieving up to a 50% bitrate savings while supporting formats as advanced as 4K HDR. Alongside this, Harmonic's ProStream® X stream processor facilitates reliable distribution of live content across all their affiliates through SRT technology.

Harmonic’s XOS Edge Integrated Receiver Decoders (IRDs) play a crucial role in the localized ad insertion process, offering NESN the ability to deliver targeted advertisements more strategically. Processing ads nearer to the audience enhances delivery efficiency and maximizes ad revenue potential, which is vital for the finance of sports broadcasting.

Furthermore, the DMS X solution differs from traditional methods by streamlining centralized management for ad insertion, program localization, remote playout capabilities, HTML graphics, clip, and playlist integration. This elevation in the primary distribution methodology provides NESN with a significant technological advantage in the current media landscape.

Quick Deployment and Future Prospects

The collaboration with Astound Business Solutions has ensured a seamless deployment of this sophisticated distribution platform, allowing NESN to launch its new system in just two months—a remarkable feat in the world of tech integrations. Furthermore, Astound provides comprehensive management of NESN’s video services alongside continuous network monitoring, ensuring operational reliability and success.

According to Gil Rudge, Harmonic’s Senior Vice President for Video Business Solutions, “The successful execution of our primary distribution solution within such a short timeframe showcases the strength of the collaboration between NESN, Astound, and Harmonic. The innovative capabilities this partnership provides will not only enhance the viewing experience for sports fans across the region but also help NESN in generating additional revenue streams.”

Looking Ahead

This partnership marks a significant advancement for NESN in the competitive realm of sports broadcasting. By integrating Harmonic’s sophisticated technologies, NESN aims to set new standards for live sports delivery that prioritize quality, efficiency, and viewer engagement.

The new technology will be showcased at the upcoming NAB Show New York, set to occur from October 22-23 at booth 533, where potential media partners and stakeholders can explore the innovative solutions brought forth by Harmonic. Further information about Harmonic and their offerings can be found on their official website at www.harmonicinc.com.

With a strategic approach, a commitment to innovation, and partnerships with industry leaders, NESN is well-positioned to navigate the future of sports broadcasting, ensuring that fans enjoy an unparalleled viewing experience.

Conclusion

In an era where viewer engagement and content monetization are paramount, NESN’s collaboration with Harmonic and Astound Business Solutions exemplifies how technology can drive excellence in live sports delivery, creating countless opportunities for growth and improvement in the sports media industry.