M7 taps Harmonic for World Cup in UHD TV

Pay TV operator M7 Group has chosen technology outfit Harmonic to provide an Ultra HD video processing solution for live video distribution of the FIFA World Cup from Russia.

The tournament matches are being delivered live in native UHD to all of M7 Group’s Canal Digitaal subscribers in The Netherlands via a dedicated channel called NPO UHD, set up specifically for the event by Dutch public broadcasters NPO and NOS. For the duration of the tournament, NPO UHD will be broadcasting via a dedicated transponder on the Astra satellite at 23.5° East, the key orbital position use by Canal Digitaal for the distribution of its main channels.

Harmonic is providing its Electra video processor for live HEVC encoding of UHD broadcasts.

“When viewers are watching this iconic soccer tournament coverage, they expect a high quality of experienceHarmonic has a long history of providing best-in-class video quality, and we look forward to delivering stunning UHD images of one of the most watched sports events,” said Ron Paans, technical director at M7 Group.

“We have a longstanding relationship with M7 Group and are excited to support their UHD video delivery efforts during this prestigious event,” said Ian Graham, senior vice president of sales, EMEA and LATAM, at Harmonic.

“Harmonic offers unparalleled reliability, which is key for live sports coverage, along with years of media processing and delivery expertise to enable M7 Group’s delivery of a crystal-clear and immersive quality of experience to its viewers.”