Press Release

LAS VEGAS--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Apr. 20, 2009-- Harmonic Inc. (NASDAQ:HLIT) today introduced the Ellipse™ family of encoders for advanced digital video contribution applications. Two models of the Ellipse line will be demonstrated at NAB 2009 — the Ellipse 1000 for fixed line contribution and the Ellipse 2000 with DVB-S2 for digital satellite newsgathering (DSNG). Based on the market-leading Scopus contribution platform, and combined with Harmonic’s video quality expertise, Ellipse greatly expands Harmonic’s ability to serve the fixed and DSNG contribution segment. The new Ellipse AVC low latency compression options will be available in Q3 2009.

“Broadcasters need to cost-effectively maximize bandwidth utilization and facilitate content contribution, and our new Ellipse encoders deliver on these requirements,” said David Shamir, Product Marketing Manager for Harmonic. “Using state-of-the-art AVC and MPEG-2 compression technology packed in a small, low-power footprint, with simultaneous IP/ASI outputs and advanced multiplexing capabilities, the Ellipse encoders increase channel reliability while significantly reducing capital and operating expenses.”

The Ellipse 2000 facilitates mobile operations for live news or event coverage by providing state-of-the-art low-latency encoding technology to DSNG vehicles. The Ellipse 2000’s latency of less than 300 milliseconds, combined with the bandwidth efficiency gains of AVC compression and DVB-S2 modulation, makes this system the ideal choice for DSNG operators looking for a cost-effective yet high quality investment.

The Ellipse 1000 encoder features dual GbE IP, DVB-ASI, as well as optional DVB-PDH or G.703 outputs to enable video contribution over wired communication links, such as a connection between a network’s headquarters operation and a remote news bureau or sports/entertainment venue. Pro-MPEG COP3/SMPTE 2022 forward error correction (FEC) technology helps to minimize packet loss for highly reliable, error-proof transmissions over IP networks.

By supporting compression standards ranging from MPEG-2 SD to MPEG-4 AVC HD/SD, the Ellipse platform enables a smooth MPEG migration path for broadcasters as they continue the transition to HDTV operations. Both encoders can operate in standalone mode, without the need for an external PSI-SI generator or multiplexer. They provide broadcast quality video encoding at data rates of up to 50 Mbps and advanced audio encoding. As with other Harmonic digital video solutions, the Ellipse 1000 and Ellipse 2000 are built on a modular “pay-as-you-go” architecture that enables customers to invest in features as needed, through firmware upgrades.

The new Ellipse encoders will be on display at the 2009 NAB Show in Las Vegas, April 20-23, in Harmonic’s booth #SU7209.

About Harmonic Inc.

Harmonic Inc. is a leading provider of versatile and high performance video solutions that enable service providers to efficiently deliver the next generation of broadcast and on-demand services including high definition, video-on-demand, network personal video recording and time-shifted TV. Cable, satellite, broadcast and telecom service providers can increase revenues and lower operational expenditures by using Harmonic’s digital video, broadband optical access and software solutions to offer consumers the compelling and personalized viewing experience that is driving the business models of the future.

Harmonic (NASDAQ:HLIT) is headquartered in Sunnyvale, California with R&D, sales and system integration centers worldwide. The Company’s customers, including many of the world’s largest communications providers, deliver services in virtually every country. Visit www.harmonicinc.com for more information.

This press release contains forward-looking statements within the meaning of Section 27(A) of the Securities Act of 1933 and Section 21(E) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, including statements related to: expanding Harmonic’s ability to serve the fixed and DSNG contribution segment, the availability of the Ellipse AVC compression options in Q3 2009, and enabling a smooth MPEG migration path for broadcasters.

Our expectations and beliefs regarding these matters and the benefits expected from the Ellipse encoder product line may not materialize, and actual results could differ materially from those projected. The forward-looking statements contained in this press release are also subject to other risks and uncertainties, including those more fully described in Harmonic’s filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission including its recent Reports filed on Form 10-K and Form 10-Q. Harmonic does not undertake to update any forward-looking statements.

EDITOR’S NOTE – Product and company names used herein are trademarks or registered trademarks of their respective owners.

Source: Harmonic Inc.

Harmonic Inc.
Sarah Lum, +1-408-543-2392
Media Relations for Harmonic
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Investor Relations for Harmonic
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