CLEAR-COM EXHIBITS V-SERIES PANELS WITH IP CONNECTION AT LDI 2008

New Application Links V-Series Panels and Eclipse Matrix over Ethernet

LAS VEGAS, NEVADA, OCTOBER 23, 2008—Clear-Com® Communication Systems, a brand of The Vitec Group, is broadening the access of its Eclipse Digital Matrix Intercom System with IP-enabled V-Series user control panels. In line with the company's strategy toward ubiquitous communication, the new IP connectivity allows users to link their Eclipse V-Series user control panels to the Eclipse Matrix frame over their existing WAN or LAN Ethernet cabling infrastructure. Harnessing the power of IP technology, this new application significantly expands the range and mobility of the Eclipse system, making communications during live production and other time-sensitive applications a snap. Clear-Com's V-Series IP is on display at LDI 2008 (Booth 668).

Using a new matrix IP card, E-Que IP, individual V-Series panels can be integrated by establishing an IP link back to the Eclipse Matrix frame. As IP connectivity is enabled by the existing WAN or LAN network, all that is required to ensure connection on the Eclipse Matrix side is an Ethernet switch or router linked to the IT network. No other devices are needed to secure the connection, making it very economical to deliver intercom access into local or remote locations. The E-Que IP card supports up to 32 V-Series IP panels.

“The IP-enabled V-Series panel is a powerful way to deliver intercom functions to new areas of the production venue and beyond,” says Simon Browne, Senior Product Manager of Clear-Com Communication Systems. “By integrating this capability into the E-Que IP card, users can take advantage of the inherent audio quality and reliability of the Eclipse Matrix no matter where the location, be it the front-of-house mixing booth or a remote ENG van picking up live feeds from a performance.”

Some of the applications for which the V-Series-IP link to the Eclipse Matrix can be used include communications between the stage manager and crew members during a live performance, remote access of staff members reviewing feeds from a performance, and communication between directors, lighting staff and other essential employees within a venue.

All panels in the V-Series line feature Clear-Com's “Listen Again” technology that employs digital audio memory to allow the user to replay 30 seconds of received incoming audio, aiding communication in noisy and demanding environments, as is common in performance arenas.

Advanced Digital Signal Processing (DSP) gives operators increased control over their panel's audio, including routing, EQ, mic limiting, headset sidetone, as well as intelligent dimming and local Interrupted Foldback (IFB).

Each panel's 10-character display key can support international characters such as Chinese, Japanese and Cyrillic. Each of its 12 or 24 talk-down/listen-up keys, including one dedicated to answer-reply with eight shift pages, has individual mix level control, allowing users to set personal audio levels to suit individual workflows. It has been designed to provide producer/commentator dual operation with stereo monitoring, binaural headset listening, cough switching and local intelligent IFB control/loudspeaker dimming, offering users enhanced control over their audio environments.

ABOUT CLEAR-COM

Clear-Com®, a brand of The Vitec Group plc, is the global leader of professional communication solutions for broadcast, live performance, military, government and commercial markets. For more than 40 years, Clear-Com's signature products such as Encore Party-line, Eclipse Digital Matrix, CellCom®/FreeSpeak® Digital Wireless and IP Communications systems have revolutionized broadcast stations, production trucks, houses of worship and performance venues. Recognizing Clear-Com for its history of intercom innovation, production teams around the world achieve ubiquitous communication with products to promote easy interoperability and global connectivity. More information can be found at www.clearcom.com.

ABOUT THE VITEC GROUP PLC

The Vitec Group plc is acknowledged as a global leader in the supply of equipment and services to the broadcasting, entertainment and photographic industries and has established a reputation for technical excellence and superior engineering along with an astute business strategy which has seen it grow by acquisition. Innovation is a cornerstone of the Group's activities and the organisation is committed to a policy of continuous product development. With revenues (2007) of $546m (£274m) and over 2200 employees world-wide, its products are distributed in almost 100 countries, through a strong, fully-resourced distribution network or direct to the end user or corporate customer. More information can be found at www.vitecgroup.com.