NTT Electronics
Digital Video Business Group
March 16, 2006
NTT Electronics

NTT Electronics' HD MPEG-2 Encoder/Decoder commissioned by South Korean Broadcaster MBC

(Tokyo, March 16) NTT Electronics [NEL] has officially begun implementation of its HD MPEG-2 Encoder/Decoder to Munhwa Broadcasting Corporation [MBC], one of South Korea’s top 3 networks, for use in its broadcast centers.

This implementation comprises a high definition encoder and decoder for disseminating raw program data from the central broadcast center in Seoul to 19 of its regional broadcast centers. MBC selected NTT Electronics’ codec for its high video quality, operability and functionality in order to strengthen and expand their high definition digital broadcast capabilities.

The encoder/decoder units will be placed in MBC’s Seoul central broadcast center, while decoders will be installed at each of its 19 regional broadcast centers throughout the country. After installing these decoders, it will be possible for each of the regional broadcast centers to receive the MPEG-2 streams and rebroadcast high quality video and data throughout South Korea. Decoders will be installed at broadcast centers in Pusan, Daegu, Gwangju, Daejeon, Jeongju, Masan, Chuncheon, Cheongju, Jeju, Ulsan, Gangreung, Chinju, Mogpo, Yosu, Andong, Wonju, Chungju, Samcheok and Pohang forming MBC’s comprehensive high definition digital broadcasting network.

Mr. Chan-Gyu Yi, TV Network & Master Control Division/Director for MBC, said "With NTT Electronics’ encoder/decoder, MBC can now broadcast real high definition video. The feature characteristic of this system is its Lip Synch functionality, meaning that there is absolutely no space between the video and audio streams. Additionally, NEL has been able to make the idea of a system that is both simple and easy to use a reality. We feel that by introducing this product to our broadcasting backbone we are obtaining a necessary ingredient for high quality, stable operation."

The systems being implemented at this time, the HD MPEG-2 Encoder HE3100 and the MPEG-2 HD Decoder HD3100, are highly regarded both domestically and abroad for their superior video quality. The HE3100 supports each of the principle video formats such as 1080i, 720p, and 480i, and the audio is capable of supporting a maximum of 2 systems and encoding up to a total of 8 channels. Additionally, the unit is capable of quick boot and can be easily operated via its front panel. However the most endearing feature of this product is its Lip Synch function, which boasts perfect synchronization between the video and audio channels.

In order to assist broadcasters in meeting the global trend toward expanding high definition digital broadcasting networks, NTT Electronics will continue to aggressively promote its world-class high definition digital encoder/decoder to broadcasters throughout the world.

HE3000/HE3100
HD MPEG-2 Encoder HE3000 Series (half-rack size)
HD MPEG-2 Encoder HE3100 Series (full-rack size)

MBC implementation image
MBC implementation image

About NTT Electronics

NTT Electronics, founded in 1982, is part of Japan’s largest telecommunications group, the NTT Group (total sales of around 10 trillion yen [$120 billion] ranked 18th among the fortune 500 in 2004), is known for its cutting edge R&D as well as its unparalleled manufacturing capability. NEL contributes to developing a globally networked society by remaining on the leading edge in manufacturing and developing products resulting from research at NTT’s laboratories in the fields of photonics, broadband systems and devices, and digital video.

Primary business areas include the design, development, manufacturing and sale of IT-related devices for telecommunications photonics, high-speed electronic devices, system LSI for digital video and other system components.

Particularly within the field of digital video technologies, NEL has gained a high level of know-how and superior technology through supplying the codec equipment for the world pioneering introduction of High Definition Digital Broadcasting to Japan.

About Munhwa Broadcasting Corporation

MBC’s 19 television stations reach over 98% of South Korea’s nearly 50 million citizens. One of only three television networks in South Korea, and headquartered in Seoul, MBC employs nearly 2,000 people. From reporting on the heart pounding moments of the 1988 Summer Olympics, to capturing Korea’s resurgence spirit with the IMF bail-out package, to being the most watched broadcaster of the 2002 World Cup in Korea, and being at the forefront of advancing technology by integrating digital broadcasting, MBC broadcasting connects us to our heritage, to our world, and to each other.

For more information, please visit: www.mbc.co.kr

For more information, please contact:

NTT Electronics Corporation
Multimedia System Group