Artel Video Systems

Artel Video Systems operates as a specialized provider of real-time multimedia delivery solutions tailored for global markets, with a history spanning over three decades. The company pioneered the first commercially available video-over-fiber transport platform and has since become a key equipment supplier for mission-critical video feeds. Its client base includes major telecommunication companies, CATV operators, video service providers, government agencies, and municipalities. The business focuses on developing and manufacturing hardware for media transport over direct fiber, IP, and managed optical networks, addressing the evolving needs of the broadcast, professional AV, and telecom markets.

Historically, the company has been a dominant player in providing the hardware for local-loop circuits, which are essential for transporting high-quality video between locations. A significant milestone occurred on October 1, 2014, when Artel transitioned to a 100% employee-owned company through an Employee Stock Ownership Plan (ESOP). This structure was championed by then-President and CEO Richard Dellacanonica, who has led the company since at least 2004. He believed employee ownership would enhance financial performance and customer satisfaction by fostering a culture of dedication and service. In a recent development, Patton, a manufacturer of networking and communications technology, completed its acquisition of Artel Video Systems on August 2, 2024. This strategic move aims to combine the strengths of both companies to offer a more comprehensive suite of solutions, integrating Artel's product lines with Patton's existing portfolio.

Artel’s product portfolio is designed to facilitate the shift to hybrid IP/SDI and all-IP operations for broadcasters. Key product families include the DigiLink media transport platform, which is NEBS Level 3 Certified; InfinityLink, a solution for managing transport systems from studio to remote sites; FiberLink, a range of compact fiber optic transmission solutions ideal for venues like sports arenas and houses of worship; and the Quarra family of PTP-aware managed IP switches, which provide precise IEEE 1588-compliant timing and synchronization. These products are crucial for thousands of live events annually, including sports broadcasts and award ceremonies. The acquisition by Patton is expected to enhance these offerings by leveraging combined R&D, manufacturing capabilities, and intellectual property.

Keywords: multimedia delivery, media transport solutions, IP-based infrastructure, fiber optic transmission, video-over-fiber, broadcast video, live event production, telecommunications equipment, CATV operator solutions, professional AV, government agency solutions, employee-owned business, ESOP, media transport platform, IP switches, precision timing protocol, PTP, studio to studio transport, remote site connectivity, data networking, mission-critical video, real-time multimedia, video networking systems, standards-based networks, network synchronization