September 2008

At this year’s IBC Metra unveiled their latest release of Weatherscape XT Version 3.  The system is an end-to-end robust platform, delivering 3D real time graphics, helping to increase viewer ratings and advertising revenue.

Metra’s Weatherscape is a powerful weather presentation system, combining meteorological science with the latest advances in computer graphics technology.  Weatherscape’s creative editing tools provide the user with the flexibility to build unique, captivating weather shows that accurately and clearly communicate the weather to viewers.

Weatherscape’s new features include:-

• Photo-realistic graphics - enhanced wind, rain and cloud effects

• Enhanced graphics management tools that make it easier to create special effects

• Drive graphics effects directly from weather data – for example, automatically link wave heights directly to changing wave height data

• Improved cyclone tracker – automatically display cyclone tracks or forecast positions for anywhere in the world – including uncertainty plots

• Scene pre-rendering – pre-render scenes that may not achieve frame rates, ensuring your shows are not constrained by hardware limitations. Quicktime rendering capabilities now included.

• Enhanced network administration facility – Monitor all aspects of system performance

Weatherscape’s enhanced cutting-edge technology also includes an easy to use interface, fully compatible with all graphics packages. The world’s leading broadcasters such as the BBC, CNBC, TG4 Ireland, Nelonen Finland, Future TV, Al Aan, City 7, TVNZ, Channel 7 and Channel 9 are all users of this system.