Autocue/ QTV, the leading provider of teleprompting and newsroom automation solutions, will launch a series of new prompting technologies at NAB 2009. An improved range of Master Series panels, SDI compatible prompting systems, Ethernet-based controllers, and a new software-based communication system for on-air talent, are designed to enable broadcasters to improve their existing systems through incremental investment.

The next generation of Master Series CCFL panels have a higher contrast ratio, higher transflectivity, unbeatable brightness and reading angles. These panels have been rigorously tested against new LED backlit technology by Autocue’s extensive in-house design and support team, comparing favourably in terms of weight, power consumption, contrast ratio, brightness and cost.

Autocue Group CEO Frank Hyman said, “The new generation of CCFL panels are outstanding and rank favourably in a side-by-side comparison, so we see no value in moving our customers to more costly and relatively unproven LED technology.”

In response to the growing demand from top US networks to work in SDI, Autocue have added the option of an SDI output from the QBox scroll engine and SDI input to the new Master Series monitors. Autocue also offer an upgrade solution for existing prompting systems.

Autocue/ QTV is enhancing its unique IP-based QMaster/ QBox system by launching a new range of controllers with Ethernet connections. The Ethernet multi-button and foot control will negate the need for long and potentially unreliable cable runs from the PC to the presenter or operator position. Combined with the QBox’s ability to connect to the PC over IP, it creates an entire prompting system without any geographical boundaries.

Rounding off Autocue’s NAB introductions is a suite of new hardware and software products aimed at improving the communication and feedback to on-air talent. Hardware products will include a clock, a tally light, and a new “super-slim” 17” Talent Feedback Monitor, with just half the weight of the existing model. In response to a global customer survey, Autocue will also exhibit a new customizable software-based tally light and clock solution, as well as other talent communication features, including presenter messaging.

Hyman concludes, “We strongly believe in providing value to our customers through innovation. These new solutions will improve the quality of productions as well as the user experience, and can be added to current systems incrementally in a way that is sensitive to the current economic environment.”