Cable television operators and video service providers are familiar with Sentry digital content monitors used to video test, monitor and analyze systems. Today Tektronix (News - Alert) announced that the widely-used product is now available with additional features to optimize video and audio quality.

The latest updates are available through a software release to any customers. The first new feature is the ability to make thumbnail images of programs. This helps video service providers to validate and verify programs when outages occur. The ad cue features combine the thumbnails with audio graphing to create a report that the FCC (News - Alert) uses to assure the providers comply with the Commercial Advertisement Loudness Mitigation Act. The report shows when the ad aired, during the appropriate program and at the scheduled time. It measures the content as well as if it was too loud or quiet.

Sentry’s Perceptual Video Quality also received enhancement with the new update, measuring how video compression impacted viewers. Ultimately the monitors also diagnose errors with the video and audio of MPEG-2 and H.264 content.

“We are continually adding new features, functions and capabilities to ensure our Sentry line addresses VSPs' most urgent requirements, from improving the early detection and diagnosis of video and audio issues to regulatory compliance,” said Eben Jenkins, general manager, Video Product Line, Tektronix in a press release. “This commitment to regularly enhancing Sentry is one of the key reasons it remains the industry's most advanced solution for ensuring quality of experience (QoE).”

Nine of the top 10 U.S. cable operators and the top five Canadian operators use Sentry monitors to assure customer and client satisfaction. Not only does this system assure the highest video quality to consumers, but it also validates all commercials that air for advertisers.