SportBusiness.com

The deal comes as a welcome relief for bankrupt PVI and is to expand the use of the patented electronic imaging technology to be used for all CBS game broadcasts throughout the 2003 NFL season.
CBS Sports first used the PVI "First Down" line in selected games during the 1998-99 NFL regular-season and post-season and has used it on selected games since then in subsequent seasons.
"This is a clear indication of CBS Sports' dedication and commitment to enhancing our NFL game coverage," says Sean McManus, president, CBS Sports.
"The 'First Down' line is arguably one of the best technologies that have come along recently, and we are pleased to be able to provide football viewing fans with the latest technology on a consistent basis."
The new PVI "In-Studio" virtual first down line system represents the next generation in virtual graphics performance. Using advanced image processing techniques and a new computer system architecture, PVI is able to provide complete first down line service from the studio. Previously, providing this service required significant game-site presence of equipment and operators in order to place the virtual first down line into the NFL ON CBS broadcasts. Since the system now relies purely on image processing to create this effect, there is no need for any game-site presence.
The new system lowers the complexity and cost of providing this enhancement because the equipment need not be transported weekly from game to game. This key feature allows multiple games in different regions to be serviced sequentially by a single operator stationed in the broadcast studio.
The new system also offers improved tracking performance, requires a minimal number of operators, and has the option of inserting the first down line into hi-definition broadcasts.
CBS Sports kicks off its 44th season broadcasting the NFL on Sunday, September 7 with the network also holding the rights to this season's SuperBowl.