PlayBox Neo

Generate the RTC or WBC file?

In case your system needs to be checked and diagnosed, included in all PlayBox software is PlayBox Doctor, tool that takes snapshot of your servers current state and generates a report file. It is preferred that you generate this report file and send it along with your support request to support@pbteu.com. In some cases PlayBox Doctor report is essential to detect more complicated issues on your server.

PlayBox Doctor can be started in two ways:

1. From Start > All Programs > PlayBox Technology Ltd > [installed software] > PlayBox Doctor – right click on link and choose “Run as administrator”

2. From application (Menu > Help > PlayBox Doctor)

Note: In the second method, important information regarding particular software will be automatically populated. If you are using first method, these information must be entered manually.

In the PlayBox Doctor, fill in the following fields:

  • Enter your User Name
  • Enter your valid E-mail address
  • Enter your Company / Station name
  • In Purchased on section select date of purchase from the drop-down calendar menu
  • In Purchased From section selectyour vendor from the drop-down list of PlayBox offices
  • Select your Country from the drop-down list
  • Select PlayBox Module from the drop-down, for which you are generating report, such as AirBox, TitleBox, etc.
  • Select Module Version – when you click here you must navigate to the executable of the product for which you are generating Report, such as AirBox, TitleBox, etc. I.e. for AirBox you must browse C:\Program Files (x86)\PlayBox Technology Ltd\AirBox\AirBox.exe.
  • In Platform section select your broadcast cards from the drop-down list. If your card is not on a list, try to find closest model. If you have more than one card, please select one that is more relevant to the issue.
  • Select Problem from the drop-down list, and optionally use the Additional Information field below to enter more details and comments about the problem, and click Add button.

In addition, you should also:

  • Click Attach List to add all relevant logs and setting files for desired software to report
  • Click PlayBox Files Scan if you want to perform quick scan for information of PlayBox modules on your system HDD and add them to report
  • Click Thorough Scan if you want to add information about all local HDD’s content and add them to report
  • Other options may be available depending on the selected software

Note: some operations may take longer time to finish. You can monitor activity of PlayBox Doctor in status bar of it’s window.

After populating all fields click Save button to create PlayBox Doctor Report.

What are RTC and WBC files?

The *.rtc and *.wbc files are a snapshot of the current state of your WIBU-key (software protection device, also referred to as dongle). These files are mainly used to determine type of license installed on your system and for diagnosing license related software issues. RTC or WBC file should be generated and send to our support or sales team upon request.

Update WIBU licence

Customer may receive license update in cases like: purchasing additional software or software options, purchasing or renewing ASM (Annual Software Maintenance), requesting DEMO license, obtaining permanent license after a trial period, etc. License update is in form of single *.RTU file (can be packed as *.ZIP archive) and has name that corresponds to the WIBU-Key or Dongle serial number that it is intended for. This file must be placed (unpacked) on the server where WIBU-Key or Dongle with same serial number is connected. Also, appropriate WIBU driver must be installed. All PlayBox software must be closed. Simply double click on the *.RTU file and following window will appear

Click “Yes”. If everything is in order, you will see another pop-up window confirming process was successful

   Note: WIBU license updates MUST be performed in sequential order as they are issued (UPD1, UPD2 UPD3 etc)! If you are issued a new update, but you skipped to install previous one, you will get an error message “failure to install”…

Import playlist in AirBox?

AirBox can import playlist from structured text files. More scheduling/traffic software can export playlists in such files.

The Import Playlist tool, operates by using playlist structure templates, previously created by you.

So first, you have to create a template. Go to From Menu->File and select Playlist Import.  Than click the More button in the Templates field.

A new window for setting a template is opened.

If your source file is tab delimited, select “delimited” tab.

If your source file is with fixed-width data , select “Fixed” tab.

1. Import a tab-delimited file

In the Template field, enter the name of the template.

Then select a file-example of your source file (use the Sample File button to select that file). Data from the source file will appear in the table in the bottom of the screen.

If there are headers in the file, you can skip them by filling  the Number of lines to be skipped field. The skipped lines will be colored in red.

Now, go to the uppermost cell of each column, click once on it and “tell” the Template Builder to which metadata field in AirBox this column corresponds –  is it a start time, or title, or category, or any other Metadata in AirBox playlist.

Use [BULK] for the fields to be skipped (such as duration, etc.) to comply with the AirBox playlist structure

When you are ready, click Save.

Click Validation to verify that your template is compatible with the file you are going to import (a browse dialog will open for you to print to that file).

If you need to use another sample file, click the Clear Sample button and then load the new sample. If you do not clear the old sample first, the new file will be appended to the end of the old one.

The fields “Date format” and “Time format” are related to the daily playlists. There you can see the date and time format for such represented lists. In case you have to import playlists that are longer than 12 hours, use the Filter button to split them.

Here you can indicate some values of the clip, which will be used as a split point (for example, [House ID], [In] and [OutTC], [Category], [Title], etc.). Use the Add button to add these values as filtering conditions for splitting the playlists, and the Apply and Remove buttons respectively to confirm the usage of the created conditions, or to remove them.

2. Import playlists with fixed-width data fields

Here you can set/modify a template, which tells AirBox how to interpret the fixed width text file, containing the playlist.

Click on the Sample File button to select an example of the text file that will be imported with this template. This text file will be loaded in the data preview field, which is situated at the lower part of the Playlist Template Builder dialog. The actual columns in this sample text are not separated. Each of them contains a fixed number of symbols. To define the columns’ width, you have to signify column breaks. For the sake of convenience, there is a symbol-related ruler.

  • To create a break line, left-click in the desired position.
  • To move a break line, click on it and drag it.
  • To delete a break line, double-click on the line.
  • To increase and decrease the width of the created grid, use the mouse scroll.
  • When you move the mouse along the window, an indicator will be displayed near the mouse pointer. It counts the symbols, including spaces and special characters, from the beginning of the ruler to the current position of the mouse pointer.
  • After separating the columns, left-click within the bar under the ruler to specify what kind of data the relevant column contains (for example, Title, Filename, Duration, etc.). Click on the Save button to save the template, and on the Pick button to load it.

Back in the first dialog, select a template preset from the drop-down list (now you should have at least one, built in the Template builder). Click the browse button to point to the File to Import and click OK.

You can set the currently selected Templates folder and Template preset as default, by clicking the Save as Default Template.

Use the browse button to the right of the Folder string to specify the location for saving your templates.

The Default delimiter is used to select how the columns are separated in the file to be imported (tabs, semi-colons, etc.).

The Start time tolerance spin box is designated for usage when the playlist for import contains fixed start time entries. This means that if there are some conflicting start times that are out of the allowable tolerance, then no fixed start time events will be created during the playlist import. This value is valid both for earlier, and for later start tolerances.

The Frames drop-down list allows you to select the number of frames per second in the files to be imported.

In the Action drop-down list select whether to Load, Insert, or Append a playlist.

If you check Save daily playlists, the dialog will become extended, so that you can specify a folder and Playlists start time.

In the File to Import field select the file you wish to import via the browse button next to it.

You can save the imported playlist as a default template by clicking the Save as Default Template button.

What is ASM?

ASM stands for Annual Software Maintenance. It is a Premium support package that gives you following benefits:

Support via e-mail, ticketing system, or live chat from PBTEU.com website. Priority ticket handling and solving within 8h or less , via remote access by Broadcast Support Engineer, latest software versions update, bug fixing etc. Can be extended with signing a special SLA agreement.

ASM is included in your first year when you purchase PlayBox software. It can be also purchased for older software that has valid permanent license, and prolonged according your wishes.

API/SDK request

Please e-mail us with your request at sales@pbteu.com

Does AirBox supports subtitles? What subtitle formats are supported?

Yes, AirBox supports subtitles through integrated module called SubtitleBox (license option needed). Supported formats are Subtitle NEXT (*.sub), Screen Subtitling/Win2020 (*.pac) and EBU t3264 (*.stl).

We do recommend to use SubtitleBox with Subtitle NEXT native format.

Do you support CC (closed captioning)?

Closed captioning (CC) is the process of displaying text on a television, video screen or other visual display to provide additional or interpretive information to individuals who wish to access it.

Our products support CC data for analog TV (EIA-608) with Decklink card and for digital TV (EIA-608 in EIA-708) with Deltacast card.

CC data in MPEG2 TS and H.264 TS are supported.

Lost or Stolen Dongle Policy

The standard policy applies with all cases of lost or stolen dongles.

Lost or Stolen Software WIBU Key (Dongle) Policy

The Client must take all reasonable precautions to protect the dongles from being lost or stolen. We will not replace lost or stolen dongles free of charge as these lost or stolen dongles can be both used and misused. The client should take all precautions needed and if necessary insure themselves against this loss, however caused.

Procedure to be followed in the case for Lost or Stolen Dongles

The Client must notify company that they have lost the dongle and the comapny will supply the Client with a 30 Day Temporary Dongle provided that:
a. the Client notifies the comapny of the lost or stolen Dongle Number
b. the Client pays an administration fee of €125 + Shipping + VAT for the supply of the 30 Day Temporary Dongle
c. the client agrees with the Terms and Conditions of the Compnay’s Lost or Stolen Software WIBU Key (Dongle) Policy

If during the 30 Day Period the Dongle is found then The Client must notify the comapny and return the 30 Day Temporary Dongle to comapny within 21 Days. If the Dongle is NOT received by the comapny within 21 Days then an invoice for €75 will be raised automatically for late or non received Dongles.

If on or before the expiry of the 30 Day Temporary Dongle the Client has not found the lost or stolen dongle then The Client will need to purchase a new License for the 30 Day Temporary Dongle on the following conditions:
a. The Client will pay the Current List Price
b. The Client will also purchase the Software Maintenance and Standard Technical Support (SM&STS) unless the lost or stolen dongle had the SM&STS.

Please Note:
The comapny will not extend the 30 Day Temporary Licence period beyond this time (30 Days) except in exceptional circumstances and at extra cost
If within a period of 1 Year from the reported loss the Dongle is found then the company will:
a. refund 75% of the purchase price of the replacement license on receiving the lost or stolen Dongle back from The Client for an administration fee of €125.00 + VAT
OR
b. we will supply a new Dongle to use the existing license on for an administration fee of €125.00 + Shipping + VAT
If the Dongle is found after the 1 Year from the reported Loss the comapny will deal with this on a case by case basis.

I would like to use older version of the software

This is possible only if you have active ASM (annual software maintenance). Just send a note in our support system and request the older software installation for you.

I would like to update my software but I don’t want to purchase an upgrade.

If you would like to keep using a non-current version of the software, you should use the one that you received during purchasing. As a courtesy to those who have lost or misplaced their installations, we provide a free (but NOT immediate) service and supply the latest version that they are entitled to. Since each customer has his own maintenance expiry date, we cannot keep all software online, as this would cause further confusion. Just send a note to in our support system and request the latest software installation for you. In order to avoid delays, please provide the following information: your website user ID, latest version in possession (or in use), reason for seeking an update.

How can I upgrade my software?

According to our support policy we provide free software updates within your maintenance plan subscription duration – usually 12 months after the maintenance plan purchase. If your purchase was done more than a year ago or your software maintenance contract is expired, please contact us for obtaining or renewing your software maintenance package.

Can I purchase additional modules?

You can always purchase additional modules when you need them. Additional software options can be added with a simple e-mail attachment. No shipping is needed if you don’t need new servers or dedicated hardware. Please, contact sales, if you want to purchase additional software.

Where do I find updates for my software?

Please contact us.

SubtitleNEXT

What is demo version?

The demo version of SubtitleNEXT is a fully functional version of the software with the following demo version limitations:
1. No possibility to save files in SubtitleNEXT subtitle file format.
2. Limitation for exporting files – only the first 20 subtitles are exported, or burn-in.
3. The output is watermarked with the SubtitleNEXT logo.
4. No possibility to copy subtitles for use in other programs.

What is trial version?

Trial version of SubtitleNEXT is a fully functional version of the software with limited time for usage.

Mixing subtitles exported to MOV with Alpha with video file using ffmpeg

  1. From SubtitleNEXT export your subtitles to “MOV with Alpha” (subs.mov in the following example), using the same resolution and frame-rate as your video file
  2. Supposing your video file is named “video.mp4” use the following command in the command prompt (CMD) to produce “out.mp4”:
ffmpeg -i video.mp4 -i subs.mov -filter_complex "[0:v][1:v]overlay[out]" -map "[out]" -map 0:a -c:a copy out.mp4

Cloud based workflow diagrama

SubtitleNEXT - Typical Applications

Typical Applications

SubtitleNEXT is the latest industry standard subtitling lab, in one compact and convenient application, possible to meet and deliver highest user expectations and market demands.
It covers the needs of wide and numerous domains, saving your time and energy while making you more productive and efficient.

Here at PBT EU, we understand and recognize the need for such piece of software. Thus, the fields of SubtitleNEXT usage are vast:

– Translating
If you you are either conforming a script, translating existing subtitle form to another language or format, or going from a blank file by writing down what you hear in the video, SubtitleNEXT is the solution you were looking for. While being present over two decades, it rebirth begun recently, and its growing into the version you now have in your hands.

– Editing and adopting for either subtitles or dubbing
One of the most common concerns that subtitles and translation are involved in, is their quality; existence of discrepancies mostly when it comes to the potential loss of information and the impact they might have on the viewers experience. With its ability to easily go trough the text, find and replace words and phrases using simple and complex search engines such as Regular Expression, creating custom or importing open source dictionaries and even search online vocabularies and translation engines from within the software with just one click, SubtitleNEXT is a powerful tool.

– Timing/cueing/spotting
At your disposal you have multiple methods to manipulate time in any format, place or shape. If you prefer the old fashioned ways, to type the figures or hold a key while the media is running, its there. Or if you like modern automated parameter regulated insertion, you will also find it in SubtitleNEXT. Of course, there are more, and yes, you can combine all of them as you wish.

– Verifying layout on the text over media
Do not limit your creativity or hold it inside anymore. SubtitleNEXT offers you full Color palette with Transparency – in all 32-bit glory. And you can see the look of it instantly, as you work on your file. Save, import and export your Style settings for backup or to share with colleagues and coworkers. And you are able to do all this, to see and to feel the look, either you are working with files, live video or streaming (internet) media. Let your subtitles be your trademark – or make them to be exact the same as the job requirements are.

– Verifying timing and other job requirements
Details do matter! You can be a perfectionist, or the project you are working on may have such strict rules regarding every possible option setting and choice – nothing to worry. Numerous features, tools and menus are at your disposal. Prepare, by setting all parameters and preferences to work for you – or use some of offered fixing mechanisms afterwards. Again, its only up to you. SubtitleNEXT provides it all. Auto-generated Scene Change markers, draggable visualized timings, Wave form or Spectrum audio graphs, frame accurate predefined values of numerous rules and conditions, are just some of them.

– Delivering your work
You have just finished your file and now it should be used. By anyone and anywhere! SubtitleNEXT currently offers 15 different file formats, as well as the exporting to Video and DVD formats like embedding the subtitles into video, image set, transport stream, alpha only video … You can save to the internet location like http or ftp the same as you can open from there. We warmly recommend keeping your work in the native file format, as it provides the most options and possibilities.

It will be very hard to describe every single possible scenario of usage. Even just naming them all would make the rest of this article possibly boring to read. Besides everything told so far, we would like to mention just a few, not so typical. SubtitleNEXT modes allows you to operate also completely manual. Imagine the live addressing of a VIP speaking a different language and you have a speech translation – simply connect a laptop with the software to a video beam, and manually display the subtitles, one by one, in sync with the spokesman. Or, you could play a one-time movie with the subtitles on a festival directly from the software and again just attaching it to the DLP projector. Music festivals, Convections, Opera and Theater… The possibilities are practically endless.

Each type of user requires a different configuration of SubtitleNEXT and appropriate hardware environment in order to do his job as effectively as possible:

Translators would usually do their job with the simplest possible text editor, but once they get familiar with the simple-to-use SubtitleNEXT interface, they will love it and never feel like using simple text editors anymore. This is due to all the SubtitleNEXT specific useful features, specially designed with subtitling in mind, such as splitting and joining lines and screens, moving single words back and forth among subtitle lines, etc. F or example, it is particularly easy and straightforward to move a word from the beginning of the lower line to the end of the upper line with just a single keyboard shortcut. Some translators prefer working on their own PC at home. SubtitleNEXT can be installed on such a PC , even on a low -performance one.

Editors would definitely fall in love with the SubtitleNEXT ’ ability to navigate through sections, film parts, timecode , etc. It is particularly easy to insert and remove words, lines, line breaks, and whole subtitle pages with a single operation. The user interface is so intuitive, that you would rarely need to consult the user manual. Choosing font attributes can be quite a pleasant job with instant WYSIWYG preview on both PC / Laptop screen and video output. Subtitle layout over video can be adjusted on both VGA overlay screen or video frame buffer for greater precision.

Subtitling operators will benefit from SubtitleNEXT ’ stability and error-free operation, sparing unnecessary repeating of lengthy operations. SubtitleNEXT is designed and developed by subtitlers for subtitlers, thus seamlessly automating most of the subtitler’s tasks, still flexible enough for last minute changes. Features like free wheel running when timecode drops for a specific interval are essential tools and we believe they are hard to find in competing subtitling solutions.

MINIMUM SYSTEM REQUIREMENTS

RECOMMENDED
CPU INTEL I5/I7
3TH GEN. OR NEWER.
WINDOWS PRO 10
X64, RAM 8GB

Installation

SubtitleNEXT is a multi-user environment and it can be installed in a variety of configurations. The core subtitling preparation environment is suitable for any type of workstation, no matter in a subtitling facility or editor’s home. Subtitles can be prepared anywhere and then brought to the main subtitling station on a file, sent by an email, flash device, web location, s/FTP and virtually any modern file transfer method.

Depending on the particular production needs, additional modules may be required for the job, for example – LTC reader, Video Overlay, Video Embedded, 3D, etc. Each of these modules is available as part of a SubtitleNEXT bundle. Please find supported modules info in the matrix picture below.

Advanced subtitling station is usually equipped with a video frame buffer, such as Decklink, Aja, Matrox or other . It is intended f o r final subtitle layout and execution. Depending on the configuration, it may also be equipped with VGA video overlay, LTC reader, RS-422 deck control, etc. Each of these modules is available as part of a SubtitleNEXT bundle.

Feture set list

How can I upgrade my software?

Depending on the current type of license that you have, the amount can differ. In case your license is not obligated to upgrade please contact the Sales department, stating the desired type of upgrade.

Can I use my licensed software on more than one computers?

No. The standard license gives you the right to install and use our software on a single computer or virtual machine. For any other computer or virtual machine, you need additional licenses.

Since the license is related to the specific computer configuration, can I migrate the license onto another computer?

Yes. Migrating license from one computer or virtual machine to other is allowed. You are the owner of your license, and we will generate another activation in this case.