The 16 Best HD Videoconferencing Solutions launched in 2010 (Editor’s Choice) – 2. Ceelab Arrow 300, a 1080i/60fps system powered by a Sony PCS-XG80 codec ensures that the face and eyes are always clear even in poor light
24 January 2011. Ceelab AS, a European videoconferencing start-up company based in Oslo, Norway (formerly called Videoworks AS), began supplying a range of HD video conferencing systems to partners in European countries on 1 April 2010. This was shortly after Sony Europe had announced Sony itself was giving up distributing videoconferencing systems in Europe.
Ceelab had signed an OEM agreement with Sony for the supply of Sony HD video conferencing equipment and the EVI HD camera range throughout Europe. So the Ceelab Arrow 300 is a badged version of the Sony PCS-XG80.
Hence the Ceelab Arrow 300 adopts the H.264 video codec to bring you smooth and natural High-Definition (HD) images at a resolution of 1920 x 1080 pixels. Stunning HD video enhances your videoconferencing with life-like images. The Ceelab Arrow 300 provides: 1080i Full HD Codec, Sony’s BrightFace Full HD Camera, support for dual monitors with H.239 Dual Stream at 1080i with 30fps, Video Annotation, RF Remote Commander and a 6-sites HD Continuous presence MCU.
In April 2010, Ceelab offered the Arrow 300, a 1080i/60fps system that incorporates a technology to ensure the face and eyes are always clear – even when streamed from rooms with less than ideal light conditions. This was accompanied by the Arrow 200 system, a 720p HD videoconferencing system for users who do not require multipoint.
The Ceelab Arrow 300 offers a number of features to ensure easy operation such as “One-touch Dialing” for starting a video conference. HDMI interface allowing a single cable connection between the codec and display and an embedded MCU for multi point connections.
The Arrow 300’s HD camera adopts the Sony developed BrightFace(tm) technology that produces clear images even when used in rooms with less-than ideal lighting conditions. The unit also features clear and natural-sounding stereo audio.
Intelligent QoS ™ Function – Intelligently allocates Video Data based on the network condition to maintain a High Quality picture . H.235 and Advanced Encryption Standard (AES) encryption is used for a high level of security
Thanks to Ceelab Arrow 300’s backward compatibility, users have the flexibility to choose to connect with HD video quality on high bandwidth connections or with their older, SD legacy systems over IP and/or ISDN.
Ceelab has three founders who have more than 20 years experience in the videoconferencing market. Technical support by local resellers in each European country is backed up by two technical support experts (from Norway and Germany) in Oslo with Sony videoconferencing experience.
Even Zimmer, Ceelab CEO told us: “We’ve experienced a phenomenal interest in our unique offering. We are dedicated exclusively to the videoconferencing segment. We are committed to building the best sales and support team possible and our growth strategy centres on building customer loyalty through stronger support for our partners. Our innovative systems utilise high quality media and display technologies and are offered at a fair price.”
In June 2010, Ceelab partnered with Spire Global who has exclusive distribution rights for Sony videoconferencing in the United States. Under the terms of the deal, Spire Global and Ceelab will incorporate their video conferencing sales and support processes and work as one solution provider to the channel community and end-users based on both sides of the Atlantic.
“Spire Global has developed a strong reseller community with a growing base of customers who are seeking support for their European offices, so the partnership is a natural move for us,” Ceelab CEO Even Zimmer told us.
Ceelab has already signed up resellers in most of the European countries. CEO Even Zimmer told us: “We are still looking for additional reseller partners in all European countries.