New at IBC this year were the first two introductions in a new product category from FOR-A – the SOAR-A series. The name stands for Software Optimized Appliance Revolutionized by FOR-A and marks the company’s direction toward a software-based strategy for a variety of applications. First out of the gate in the SOAR-A line will be SOAR-A Edge - highly secure IP transport appliances from two- to 16-channels; and SOAR-A IPTV - an ultra-low latency, web distribution service that provides streaming from one location via WebRTC to any number of remote browsers or set top boxes.
   

With a combination of new and expanded partnerships and an emphasis on software-defined advances, FOR-A has created a complete solution that addresses a variety of live video production applications, such as broadcast, sports, corporate, and houses of worship. The SOAR-A system serves content creators transitioning to all flavors of IP, including SMPTE ST 2110; live event producers looking for a 12G 4K video production solution; as well as those looking for a workflow with low latency, software-based services.

The entire SOAR-A workflow enables highly secure REMI production and gateway-free streaming. It boasts an expandable IP-based architecture and supports the conversion and delivery of SD, HD, 4K and NDI to ST 2110 signals. It is compatible with WebRTC and utilizes RIST (Reliable Internet Streaming Transport).

“We’re eager to showcase the ease of use and power of our SOAR-A system for a variety of applications at IBC,” said Katsuaki Kiyohara, President, FOR-A Corporation. “This represents a huge step for FOR-A within the IP realm. We’re introducing SOAR-A Edge and SOAR-A IPTV as the first in our line-up at IBC, but there will be much more innovation to come. We’re very optimistic about the future development of our end-to-end, software-based live production solutions.”

SOAR-A Edge products include the SOAR-A Edge Server, which is expandable to 16 channels, and the two-channel SOAR-A Edge Mini. Both provide powerful RIST, enabling the secure and synchronized packaging of audio and video for transfer. With WebRTC (Web Real-time Communication) compatibility, SOAR-A Edge can stream video without a gateway from any browser to any browser. It supports seamless switching, low-latency previews, and cellular bonding for faster connections even from the most challenging locations.

SOAR-A IPTV is designed for feeds from one main location to remote web browsers or dedicated set top boxes. It requires a single SOAR-A device at the main location with set top boxes or PCs at remote locations for display. Viewers can watch the video on standard computers, tablets and smart phones. As with SOAR-A Edge, the IPTV version provides ultra-low latency and highly scalable WebRTC streaming. Cameras can also be monitored via a low latency preview on the web browser without any custom software. And SOAR-A IPTV also enables 24/7 recording.

SOAR-A Edge and SOAR-A IPTV will be available for delivery later this year. Solutions in the SOAR-A line up will be introduced on a continual basis.