DTS introduced the DTS-CSS Cinema Subtitling System

As a leader in digital surround sound technology for cinemas and home entertainment, DTS is also dedicated to bringing the moviegoing experience to all audiences. In the past several years, DTS has taken on a leading role in providing access to first-run films. In response to the large number of requests by the deaf community for increased availability of open caption screenings and the desire to assist film distributors and cinemas to make the provision of captioned screenings more economical and flexible, DTS introduced the DTS-CSS Cinema Subtitling System.

The DTS-CSS provides access in two distinct ways:

First is Captioning. In the past, cinemas have traditionally waited until a specially captioned (also called "hard" captioned) print- in which the captions are etched or overlaid onto the film- was available; these special prints have historically been produced in limited numbers.

With the DTS-CSS, captions are projected onto the screen, which enables the cinema to use a standard release print for captioned shows. The DTS-CSS is also very easy to use. The theater operator can simply insert the appropriate CD-ROM disc (which includes the caption information) and turn the system on. This flexibility allows exhibitors to schedule more open-captioned screenings at more convenient times.

The Second solution, Audio Description, has been developed for blind and visually impaired moviegoers. The audio description is received on infrared headphones and does not disturb other patrons. The way it works is during the gaps between dialogues, a narrator describes the scene and the action. Characters are described, visual jokes explained, and body language outlined in the narrative.

In addition to open captions and audio description, the DTS-CSS unit also plays back closed captions via the Rear Window^® Captioning System. Developed by the Media Access Group at Boston PBS station WGBH, many theaters in the US and Canada are outfitted with the Rear Window system.

The Rear Window system displays caption data as reversed text on an L.E.D. panel on the rear wall of the theater, and patrons view text via portable, transparent acrylic panels that attach to the theater seats and reflect the captions superimposed over the screen.

Whether it's open captions, closed captions or audio description, DTS is proud to be able to provide an enjoyable and fulfilling moviegoing experience to all audiences.

Posted on Fri, 11/28/2008 - 10:43