BVE2017 Stand No. H39, London ExCel, UK: VICE Media, which owns and operates the expanding VICELAND television network, has purchased Pixit Media’s PixStor software-defined storage system from UK-based IT infrastructure and technical solution specialists ERA for the new VICELAND channel in Benelux.
The PixStor system will be installed and implemented on-site by ERA, specialists in image-centric IT solutions for the creative industries. The new installation is particularly aimed at enhancing VICELAND’s 4K capabilities.
“We need a robust, central solution that will provide workflow storage to include transcoding, QC, MAM connectivity, editing and other applications that will run off the system,” said Tim Bertioli, VP, International Operations, VICE. “Based on ERA’s deep understanding of our workflow requirements, and the recent success of the implementation of a similar PixStor system at VICELAND UK, it quickly became apparent that ERA could deliver precisely what we needed.”
ERA uses best-of-breed commodity components that significantly reduce CAPEX expenditures, not only in terms of initial capital outlay but ongoing maintenance costs. High performance and heterogenous connectivity are critical to the needs of file-based content producers.
“PixStor is well known for providing exceptionally high reliability, performance, and ease of integration with existing infrastructures,” said Sean Baker, commercial director at ERA. “VICELAND’s client base typically work across all popular IT operating systems platforms, and by coupling our expertise with PixStor’s proven operational track record, we can deliver a storage system that will provide exactly what is required today with a straight-line map for future expansion.”
The VICELAND storage system in the UK started with approximately 350TB on installation and is now expanding with several hundred more. Similar capacity is expected to be required for VICELAND in The Netherlands when it is installed and commissioned in Q1 of this year.
About VICELAND:
VICELAND is an international television network owned and programmed by global youth brand, VICE Media. Launched in the US and Canada in February 2016 under the direction of Academy Award-winning writer/director Spike Jonze, the channel has since confirmed its plans to launch into 51 new territories. To date, VICELAND channels are broadcast in the U.S., Canada, U.K., Ireland, France, Australia, New Zealand and Sub-Saharan Africa.
The VICELAND network extends to both linear and digital platforms, creating high quality, original programming produced in-house, as well as commissioned globally and locally. Everything at VICELAND has a reason to exist and a strong perspective. Boasting Emmy Award-nominated shows, the channel has built a reputation for housing culturally relevant content for young people, with strong international perspectives covering music, food, news, technology, sex, fashion and more.
VICELAND’s current programming includes Gaycation with Ellen Page; Black Market with Michael K. Williams; Woman with Gloria Steinem; and Eddie Huang’s Huang’s World.
