IPTV Blog - IPTV Magazine

Book Review - An Older but Still a Good Technical Book on TV Set Top Box – STB Functional Components, Operation, Middleware, and Applications.

2012-01-30T05:38:00.000-08:00

There are only a few books that cover set top box functions, operation, and software. This is a bit old but still very good unbiased technical book that covers most technologies and options available for television STBs. The book explains the key components and operation of TV broadcast systems. If you are a software developer and are new to TV systems, the beginning of the book is good for you. It explains the key parts and functions of STB operating systems. It provides a good description of the key steps in developing STB applications. There are many diagrams that help to identify key components and relationships. If you are developing TV set top boxes – STBs, middleware, or television applications, this is a great book to round out your understanding of TV systems and STB operation.

Title: Essential Guide to Digital Set Top Boxes
Author: Gerard O’Driscoll

These are links to the book sellers.

Amazon:

http://www.amazon.com/Essential-Guide-Digital-Set-Top-Interactive/dp/0130173606/ref=sr_1_1?s=books&ie=UTF8&qid=1327931269&sr=1-1

Barnes & Noble:

http://search.barnesandnoble.com/Essential-Guide-to-Digital-Set-Top-Boxes-and-Interactive-TV/Gerard-ODriscoll/e/9780130173607?itm=2&usri=set+top+boxes

Licensing Pre-Cleared Music Audio for Movie and TV Content

2011-12-23T05:55:00.000-08:00

Getting the right music for movie and TV programs can be the difference between a blockbuster success or a marketplace failure. During my interview with Ray Williams, founder of CrumbsMusic, he explained that can be complicated, time consuming, and costly. It commonly involves negotiation with multiple record labels, artists, producers, and other companies. With the growing number of distribution channels such as Internet TV, mobile video, and stored media distribution (e.g. Blu-Ray), there will be an increase in number of movie and TV programs that are produced and they will need lots of good music tracks! To solve this challenge, Ray recommends that music be pre-cleared to simplify and speed up the licensing process. A pre-cleared licensing system needs to have a search system that allows producers, directors, and music supervisors to discover and select from quality content.

Reliably Providing Over 100 Mbps on DSL Twisted Pair using the G.Vector Industry Standard

2011-11-17T06:12:00.000-08:00

Reliably providing high bandwidth over DSL is critical to the success of many telephone companies. Jerome Joanny from Assia explained to me at the TelcoTV trade show that it is possible to provide over 100 Mbps on DSL over significant distances if the access network has been optimized. The key to reliably providing high bandwidth DSL transmission includes good management of DSL access networks which includes maintaining the physical plant, optimizing to reduce interference both internal (crosstalk) and external (such as AM radio station and in-home interference). If these factors remain unidentified and are not addressed, this means that the bandwidth on the DSL connection can be dramatically reduced and become unreliable. If the access network is not optimized for DSL, this results in reduced available services for subscribers and higher costs for the operator (customer care, repair, and other costs). A key solution for DSL optimization is to use “vectored” technology which actively cancels crosstalk and can provide transmission rates exceeding 100 Mbps.

Flexible Pluggable Optical Modules with Automatic Configuration – Universal Optical Nodes

2011-11-14T05:14:00.000-08:00

Mixing different types of optical modules in an access network can be costly and complex. Lars Eriksen from Norwia explained to me at the NAB trade show that a key solution to network operators is to use a single type of optical module that that can provide different types of transmit and/or receive and optical processing functions. Another key function to a flexible module is the ability of the device to automatically detect and configure itself. This allows operators to install a single type of optical equipment which simplifies installation, reduces spare inventory cost, and enables the network to be reconfigured as the network needs change.

TelcoTV 2011 Show Summary

2011-11-08T05:34:00.000-08:00

The main theme of the show continues to be systems and content for television that is provided over telephone networks.

Key themes at this show:
1. Communication Access Systems
2. Systems Integrators
3. Support Services

Missing:
1. Advertising Systems
2. Content Production
3. TV Applications Providers
4. Content Clearinghouses (media brokers)

Many of the attendees were from telephone companies. Most telephone companies (Telcos) have some sort of TV service offering. Interviews we had with telephone companies indicated that they feel that the number of telecom based television options and solutions have dramatically increased and improved over the last year. Several of the telephone companies we interviewed are now focusing on expanding their systems and lowering their operational expenses.

System integrators are now focusing more on optimizing IPTV operations than setting up new systems. This involves monitoring and adjusting access networks, better testing, and overall better installation and operations management.

There is a increase in the number of available revenue sources for TelcoTV systems. This includes turning public, educational, and government (PEG) channels from cost centers into a profit centers. Telephone companies seem to finding creative ways to generate revenues including security monitoring services and lifeline services.

A common issue for many telephone companies is that they cannot provide IPTV service to all of their customers because of limited data transmission speeds. In some markets, only 30% of the customer base can access IPTV services. There were several companies that offered services to improve DSL transmission rates such as G.Vector (100 Mbps) and Phantom (up to 1 Gbps).

Some telephone companies are providing local content program guides as a way to make the local broadcaster different. Local content is identified and merged with traditional electronic program guides.

Creating and Managing a Complex TV Content Rights Database

2011-11-07T08:09:00.000-08:00

Content owners, licensing agents, and broadcasters have many new types of content and distribution options that require licensing and royalty payments. Ben Clasper from Counterpoint explained to me at the NAB show that this results in more complicated needs for rights and royalty accounting software. Both content owners and broadcasters want to maximize the exploitation of their intellectual property and broadcast options. They want to minimize revenue loss and expense leakage while keeping back office system costs at reasonable levels.
It is helpful to have a system that can manage content licensing for the complete life cycle of a contract. Content licensing has different needs based on industry areas and there are many options such as multi-property and bundled SKUs that need to be setup and managed.
A core need for a content rights management system is a robust calculation engine. It should include analytical tools that ensure that royalty calculations are correct. It should allow for a wide range of licensing contract terms including use authorizations, advances, royalty tiers, payment schedules.

Broadcasters Need Smart Contract Management for TV Advertising Systems

2011-10-13T04:15:00.000-07:00

Selling and managing television advertising services is typically complex with a mixture of systems, contracts, and different types of advertising. Peter Storer from Storer TV explained to me at the NAB show that broadcasters have many new opportunities to generate advertising revenues. They can only take advantage of them if their advertising systems are smart enough to track and manage them. To do this, they need a contract and program manager system that can provide scheduling services, rights management, and financial control of their media assets
Advertising schedules are a combination of linear schedules, nonlinear schedules, and planning schedules. Broadcasters need scheduling tools that allow them to manage programs, titles, and ads in any of the scheduling formats which may occur over multiple schedules.
Advertising programs can have a complex set of shared content rights and restrictions which needs to be managed. To track programming assets, the TV advertising system should be able to gather and organize into a centralized database. Having a centralized database allows broadcast executives and managers to have immediate access to contract data, media valuation, and liability payments.
TV advertising systems must have revenue assurance capability and auditable financial records. They should have key analysis and reporting capabilities that enables daily financial controls with budgeting and forecasting capabilities.

Efficient Management of TV and On Demand Content for Multiple Types of Distribution Channels

2011-08-26T02:58:00.000-07:00

TV broadcasters need effective ways to manage and distribute their content to multiple types of distribution channels. Joe French from MassTech explained to me at the NAB trade show that broadcasters can become overwhelmed with the many new content production and distribution requirements. They need an effective and efficient (low operational cost) digital archiving and media asset management to help them compete with many new types of content broadcasters and distributors.
Broadcaster’s content management systems (CMS) need to integrate to multiple end points such as view servers and non-linear editors (NLE). They should be able to integrate with new types of media and business systems and have a framework for automated workflows. To speed up the distribution process, automatic file transformation should be able to easily convert and publish media in a wide range of formats and wrappers. They should be simple and easy to use keeping the edit list transfer complexity hidden from the operator. The system should be able to automatically generate the high resolution finished sequences ready for review, playout, and repurposing.
In addition to the technical and integration capabilities of media asset management – MAM systems, broadcasters also need hardware, software, and support services along with unlimited storage licenses.

Key Requirements for Hybrid TV Broadcast and OTT Set Top Boxes

2011-08-16T05:09:00.001-07:00

TV broadcasters are using hybrid broadcast and over the top television – OTT set top boxes to provide new on demand and interactive services to their customers. Steve McKay from Entone explained to me at the IPTV World trade show that there are some key differences between hybrid OTT set top box and there are some key features to consider which choosing a hybrid STB solution. Hybrid STBs combine broadcast TV and streaming services and need to offer users with a simple combined navigation interface. They should link to other devices in the home through wired or wireless connections. Some of the key media processing capabilities should include multiple types of media decoding (MPEG-2, MPEG-4, VC-1), 3D processing (multiple formats), and transcoding capabilities. A HTML-5 compliant browser can provide for an open and flexible platform allowing for more uniform and efficient application development. It should allow for DRM content protection support while allowing for creative licensing options and side loading (portable distribution).

How to Overcome the Challenges of Transporting Video Over IP

2011-08-09T08:13:00.000-07:00

Video, data and voice services have different requirements for transport. Data can be sent in bursts, while video requires a constant stream. IP technology was developed for data traffic where retransmission addresses data loss. Delay and jitter are non-issues for IP data. The congestion that occurs now and then is a normal state of network operation, and is actually used to control the amount of data users send to avoid severe congestion.
Network engineers have introduced priority based QoS mechanisms to accommodate more demanding services such as video, audio, voice and high bandwidth file transfers, aiming to reduce data loss and jitter characteristics. Unfortunately that this solution slows down the migration of all services to IP and the introduction of new services. Another way of solving this problem is to overprovision the capacity of the network which leads to higher CAPEX and OPEX with solutions that are not scalable.
To meet the demand for today's media content as well as future broadcast content, operators must be able to design networks capable of delivering quality of transport (QoT). This can be effectively provided by using channelized IP.
You can learn more about these challenges and QoT solutions in the article from the IPTV Magazine article from Net Insight.

Overcoming the Challenges of Video-Over-IP Transport

Clickable Television Ads Provide Significant Revenue Sources for TV Broadcasters and Higher Conversion Rates for Advertisers

2011-08-08T03:50:00.000-07:00

Enhanced interactive media offers additional revenue opportunities for TV broadcasters and higher conversion rates for television advertisers. Dan Hassan from BCM explained to me at the NAB trade show that implementing interactive TV services such as clickable ads can generate significant airtime revenue and additional service fees. Because the ads better satisfy the viewers and provide more conversion incentives and options, advertisers benefit. Implementing interactive services creates new challenges for TV broadcasters and there are some key options and solutions broadcasters should consider.
In the past, request for information ads (RFI ads) required the use of slow marketing response channels such as direct mail which reduce the effectiveness. Clickable ads can enable immediate fulfillment (ordering) or satisfaction (registration). Advertisers can dramatically improve the effectiveness of TV spots. They can extend the viewing experience beyond the typical 30 to 60 second spots when they are interested in the product or service.
Producing interactive TV ads requires the creation of new content and an interactive control process. To enable and simplify this process, BCM has created a system that supports the creation of clickable television ads called Clickable Moments™. The system embeds interactive Clickable Moments into television programs. It includes a mixture of tools and templates that allow broadcasters and media agencies to create and manage a new inventory of highly valuable interactive ads.
Interactive TV systems need to work with existing headend broadcast systems which may be implemented in different types of technology environments. It must operate on existing viewing devices which have limited memory and processing capability. Enhanced binary interchange format - eBIF is a versatile industry standard that enables interactive applications that can work with existing systems and a mixture of legacy and newer set top boxes. The interactive programs are written in compressed and efficient binary code that allows it require less transmission bandwidth, smaller memory size (footprint), and reduced processing requirements.
A byproduct of interactive advertising is the gathering of rich detailed interaction data. This can provide insight into which networks, programs, times (dayparts), and other criteria influence the success of the ad and identify when and how the viewer interacted with the ad (engagement).

Content Recognition Technology is a Key Component that Enables Better Interactive Advertising

2011-08-05T13:31:00.000-07:00

Interactive advertising offers significant financial benefits to advertisers and broadcasters if they can get it to work! After communicating with Jeff Vinson from Audible Magic, he discussed that there are several key ways to use content recognition technology to improve and simplify interactive advertising. Content recognition using perceptual fingerprinting uses fine-grained media characteristic measurements of the content that can be compared to a reference database of fingerprints. This does not require modification to any of the broadcasted content which is important as broadcasters may require that content that is sent through their networks must remain unchanged. Cloud based fingerprint content recognition places the detailed analysis on a computer server that is connected to the Internet (located in the cloud). This allows it to work with many existing devices that cannot be updated or managed. Smart hardware such as connected TVs, Blu-Ray players, digital media adapters, such as Roku, can add software content recognition capability to recognize a program or advertisement that is played on the device. Perceptual content recognition applications with limited processing requirements can be for mobile devices. Audible magic has created several of these solutions.

Interactive TV Viewing Data Being Sold to Marketing Companies

2011-08-04T13:22:00.000-07:00

Broadcasters could face strong penalties for selling private data to marketing companies for advertising purposes. A bill is being proposed by California secretary of state, Debra Bowen that will likely change the current issue of “spying” through the use of interactive data. Bowen will be facing opposition from a few very powerful companies including Microsoft and AOL. Bowen will go in front of the state senate public safety committee to defend her case that the makers of the interactive television systems will need to ask permission before they try to oversee their customers’ activities without consent. In a study that is going to be conducted by AT&T in the fall, 42,000 cable subscribers will be tested in attempts to develop technology that allows for advertisements to be household specific, based on the interactive data transmitted back to AT&T. This test will allow AT&T to have access to personally identifiable information such as telephone numbers, home addresses, and even credit card numbers. Whether this is seen as a violation of privacy, or the opportunity to have a more personalized television experience, we will wait for Congress to make the ultimate decision.

Reliable Broadband Multimedia Data over Home and Business Electrical Lines

2011-08-03T03:48:00.000-07:00

Reliable distribution of television media signals to many types of devices within the home is important to the success of TV broadcasters. Julien Gauchet from Lea explained to me at the IPTV show that it is now possible for users to reliably transfer multiple high definition TV signals in the home over their electric lines. The latest versions of the HomePlug devices can transmit over 200 Mbps and automatically give priority to the transfer of digital video (A/V) signals. The maximum connection distances (up to 300 meters) can be further than wireless options. HomePlug systems can work well with WiFi systems providing high-speed interconnection data between access points and providing data access to areas where the wireless signal is weak or can’t reach.
Users simply plug in their HomePlug devices or adapters and they automatically discover and connect to other HomePlug devices. It is possible to manage HomePlug devices using SoftPlug software that was created by LEA. This allows the user to identify, configure, and control HomePlug devices. The SoftPlug software can group the LEA HomePlug devices allowing for the creation of multiple data networks that share the same electrical lines.

Touch Screen TV Remote (Soft Remote) adds New Capabilities and Services for Television Viewers

2011-08-01T04:52:00.000-07:00

TV broadcasters can now provide mobile apps that allow user’s tablets and smart phones to work as a television remote control. Alan Delaney from Ericsson explained to me at the IPTV World show that soft TV remote applications improve the viewer navigation experience and allow the TV broadcaster to provide new services. It operates as a second screen that can preview content (companion device). It uses industry standard digital living network alliance (DLNA) protocol to monitor and control other
devices in the home. The user can intuitively browse through different types of media, preview content, and organize playlists. It can easily link their viewing choices and recommendations to social networks.
Unlike traditional button remotes, the smart TV remote can allow the user to see images and preview videos. This can be done on the remote without changing the content displayed on the TV. When the user finds a new selection, they can choose which device (such as a TV or PC) in the home will display their program. A soft TV remote also provides additional service differentiation and branding opportunities for the TV broadcaster. Because the TV remote connects through a data network, has two-way capability, and previews the media, the viewer can use the remote anywhere.

Real Time TV and Video Content Acquisition, Channel Management, and Publishing using Smartphones

2011-07-29T04:48:00.000-07:00

TV broadcasters are getting content from new sources, creating more channels, and publishing them on multiple platforms. Guillaume d’Azamar de Fabregues from SGT explained to me at the NAB trade show that it is becoming more important for TV broadcasters to be able to capture and manage the production and broadcasting workflow in real time at any location. He explained that broadcasters need a new generation of media asset management – MAM. They need a system that allows them to remotely check play lists, playouts, over incidents in real time using mobile devices such as the i-Phone. It needs to allow both skilled and non-technical users to rapidly find and control information they need. Some of the key modules include browsing and cataloging, quality check, content checking, identification, marketing & validation, search and retrieve, and a speech-to-text module. The system should seamlessly integrate into the existing system environment allowing staff and contractors to visualize playlists, playouts, and feedback to possible incidents via remote access devices such as smartphones.

IPTV Magazine June 2011

2011-07-26T13:46:00.000-07:00

We have released IPTV Magazine June 2011 edition.

Editor's Viewpoint - 5
Expert Writers - 6
Market Update - OTT Marketplace - 8
Industry News - 14
Internet TV Systems - Station Operation and Programming - 18
Smart Switching for Home Networks - Selecting and Combining the Best Connection Types--Broadcom-26
Smart Internet TV and Home Network Devices have Personal Cloud Capability-27
Getting More than 400 Mbps Transmission Throughput on Home Electrical Powerlines-27
Enabling DLNA Devices to Work With Non-DLNA Devices and Services-28
New Home Media Gateway Requirements for IPTV Over DSL - Allowing Carriers to Discover, Connect, and Configure Devices in the Home-28
Buyers Guide - TV Application Developers- 30

http://www.iptvmagazine.com/2011_06/IPTVMagazine_2011_06_front_matter.html

A Better TV Remote – Adding Haptic Motion Feedback to the Television Experience

2011-07-26T03:30:00.000-07:00

TV broadcasters have a new way to add value to the customer television experience – an interactive television remote with physical senses feedback control. Gabriele Smith from Ruwido explained to me at the IPTV World trade show that a key challenge for broadcasters is how to allow users to visualize and interact with a large number of content items and new services. Ruwido discovered that by adding tactile feedback (haptic) interaction capability to the television remote control, the physical feedback provides users with a full feeling of “in control” and interaction with television services. This provides more control options than can be provided with a touch screen device.
TV remote haptic interfaces allow TV system operators to more closely tie viewers to their services. Better navigation allows viewers to find and consume (purchase) additional content. Intuitive navigation helps the customer to understand the service options and reduces trouble calls.
The key element of the organic haptic control is the simplified body of the TV remote control device which has a reduced number of buttons. The user control the TV device by TV remote movements such as rotating the device left (on/off), turn the device right (volume up/down), along with other movement controls.
There are many options for haptic feedback. For example, viewers can push controls such as a moveable slide for an input device faster or slower. The more tactile resistance can be felt by the user enabling the device (the TV remote) to provide additional information to the navigation system (faster sliding can indicate the viewer want to scroll through more content or different content categories). The tactile interface is a way to discover the viewer’s navigation intent

Integrating Linear and On Demand TV Production Broadcast Planning and Workflow Systems

2011-07-25T04:31:00.001-07:00

TV broadcasters are rapidly changing their systems to launch many new channels and add on-demand services. Emmanuel Muller from Media GeniX explained to me at the IPTV World show that TV broadcasters need to integrate media scheduling across multiple platforms (cross-platform). It is also essential for broadcast systems to reduce media production time while decreasing operation costs (automating processes). Some of the key features needed in integrated workflow systems include multi-user collaboration, simplified service creation, asset management, and real-time financial reporting. A key part of the integrated system is the capability for real-time data exchange with rights management and to simplify the providing of cross-media services by exchanging information with web servers. To enable real time services, workflow systems should be transaction based and allow active service changes (such as on demand viewing selections and events) to automatically update user screens in real-time.

Simple and Standard HBB TV Broadcast Upgrade can Add New and Interactive Services via the Internet

2011-07-21T04:40:00.000-07:00

TV broadcasters want to add new services and interactive capabilities to their system to better compete with new types of broadcast companies such as OTT and mobile video. Jorg Eggink from Access Company explained to me at the IPTV World show that the hybrid broadcast broadband television (HBBTV) system is an industry standard can be used by TV broadcasters enhance programming services (new content) and provide for interactive services (return channels through the Internet). HBBTV is primarily a software solution that can be used TV equipment manufacturers, middleware software developers, and TV broadcasters. Software in installed in the head end and in the receiving device (such as set top boxes). Jorg explained that there are some things to consider when selecting a HBBTV solution. Software should be designed to operate in a resource limited environment and operate reliably. It should allow the user to have a seamless entertainment experience. By using a platform independent solution, TV broadcasters can upgrade a mixture of existing system types to offer rich media services.
HBBTV systems have a collection of components that may include JavaScript™, CSS, and HTML documents. This allows them to merge broadcast media with well understood Internet content and applications. Delivery options include broadcast, switched channels, and repetitive broadcasts (carousels). The HBBTV system includes an application lifecycle management (ALM) function which coordinates the creation (transfer), operation, and termination (releasing resources) of software programs. Important considerations when choosing an HBBTV system includes validating performance (testing in multiple systems and environments), good support services to ensure quick deployment and successful integration, and the HBBTV browser should be easily integrated into other systems such as DLNA home networks.

Pre-Integrated IPTV and Internet TV System Speeds up Time to Market

2011-07-15T04:35:00.000-07:00

Upgrading broadcast platforms to include IPTV and Internet TV distribution is important to most TV system operators. Noureddine Hamdane from ViAccess explained to me at the IPTV World show that TV broadcasters need integrated systems that allows the operator to manage assets across multiple distribution platforms and many types of viewing devices. This involves integrating IPTV, CAS, DRM, and TV middleware. If the systems are pre-integrated, this allows the TV broadcaster to more rapidly rollout new services including web TV, catch-up TV, and hybrid TV services. An integrated system that uses an open architecture is TV broadcasters to also integrate with 3rd party solutions such as subscriber user interface (SUI). This flexibility can allow broadcasters to differentiate their services which can be critical on a multi-solution marketplace.

Loop Recording Video Servers Provide Time Shifted Services

2011-07-13T04:51:00.000-07:00

TV broadcasters new have a new way to provide time shifted services to viewers. Paul Clark from Packet Ship explained to me at the IPTV World show that TV broadcasters need a way to upgrade their systems to offer time shifted services. The solution is to use a loop recording system on its video servers that capture both the media and their associated program metadata. This system can be used to provide new services such as catch-up TV, pause/rewind of live programs, and retrospective EPG. It allows for simple integration with existing systems with very low risk levels. It uses Linux-based software components which can reduce platform licensing costs and provide more flexibility for the modification and addition of features and services. Packet Ship video servers are able to support different types of streaming (RTSP, progressive HTTP, and HTTP Live Streaming – HLS) to multiple types of devices (STBs, PCs, Smartphones, and Tablets) using a single asset file.

A Practical Way TV Broadcasters Can Increase TV Ad Revenues by over 20 Times!

2011-07-08T04:42:00.000-07:00

By Merging TV advertising slots with direct marketing lists, TV broadcasters should be able to achieve Internet like Ad revenue levels. Current pay per click Internet rates are approximately $1 per insertion ($1000 cpm) where some of the highest TV ad insertions commonly sell for $5 to $20 cpm. By getting (renting) highly qualified lists from high qualified sources (trade shows, industry magazines), TV broadcasters should be able to insert TV commercials into homes that have matching customers (match email and/or name). For example, if a trade show list from the NAB show is rented and executives are selected, this information could be provided to the TV broadcaster advertising system. Companies would likely be willing to pay $1 or more to insert their TV commercial into an available slot during the Superbowl for matching customers. This process is extremely adaptable and scalable. List rentals and ad insertion systems should be able to allow this.

To help you understand more about TV Advertising, we created this free tutorial:

30 Slide TV Advertising Tutorial

Link to the TV Advertising Book (248 pages, 62 illustrations):

TV Advertising Book

Personalized Television Navigation – Better TV Program Guides on Mobile Devices

2011-07-06T14:45:00.000-07:00

TV broadcasters can now dramatically differentiate their brand and provide much higher customer satisfaction by using personalized TV navigation devices. Gilad Brand from WebTView explained to me at the IPTV World show that customers need (and many expect) better navigation options for the TV content. Viewers need a TV navigation method on mobile devices (soft TV remotes) that allows viewers to find, select, and control content from multiple sources and distributed to many types of devices. WebTView developed a mobile device based application - OverCast that allows users to find and control a mix of broadcast television, Internet TV - OTT, and Internet content - online videos on their mobile devices (e.g. smartphones, tablets). In addition to a more effective electronic program guide – EPG, users can share videos with their friends and get recommendations from people they trust. The application supports linear TV, video on demand – VOD, catch up TV, local content, and Internet video. The OverCast system allows content providers, TV broadcasters, and CE manufacturers to seamlessly distribute video content to connected devices such as Blu-Ray/DVD players, connected TVs, gaming consoles, and others. The WebTView video platform can organize and distribute content through an open application program interface – API.

Amazing TV App (Widget) – 16 Multichannel Mosaic Display and Channel Navigation

2011-07-06T04:11:00.000-07:00

TV broadcasters can now offer their customers a multichannel viewing option using television widgets (TV apps). Michael Reib from Nordija explained to me at the IPTV World show that TV broadcasters can use widgets to deliver a multichannel display (up to 16 live channels). Users can simultaneously view the channels, choose their audio, and select which programs to view in full screen. The Mosiac application enhances the ecosystem between the broadcast system and the customer providing for new services, increased media consumption, and increased revenues. Nordija provides an open platform that allows broadcasters to create and share TV apps (widgets).

It is Easier to Extend Existing Licensing Agreements for New Types of Distribution than to Get New Content Licenses

2011-07-05T04:16:00.000-07:00

TV broadcasters are discovering that getting distribution licenses for good content that their viewers for new types of distribution channels can be a complicated and expensive process. Mihai Crasneanu from GreyJuice explained to me at the IPTV World show that to get premium content for new types of distribution channels, it is necessary for TV broadcasters to get distribution agreements with major Hollywood studios and international premium content owners.
Content owners now have access to many types of distribution channels. This means that the number and types of content licensing agreements is dramatically increasing. Is not realistic for content owners to setup and license the many new types of TV broadcasters. To simplify the process, it is possible (and often much faster, easier, and lower cost) to extend existing content distribution licensing rights to allow for new broadcasters and platforms to get content. This allows new TV broadcasters such as green OTT providers or existing TV broadcasters that are extending their systems to new distribution channels to get access to premium content.

Automated TV and Video Testing Reduces Broadcast Equipment Device Development Time and Costs

2011-07-01T06:14:00.000-07:00

Traditional verification testing processes do not work well for TV equipment manufacturers. Bob Lamb from Cabot explained to me at the IPTV World show that device verification testing can require 20,000 to 30,000 tests to be performed taking 3 to 5 months. With new emerging system types in more countries, testing may need to be performed on more types of devices and systems. In addition to extra development time, tester fatigue can also result in incorrect results which either allow poor performance devices to pass through development and production or require additional testing to re-validate the performance. The Cabot automated testing solution can reduce testing time to less than 5% of what it takes a person to do manually do it. The automated testing system can perform 3,000 tests in 6 hours. A key to successful automated testing is the creation of a detailed and organized log of test results. The Cabot Robotester can be fully customized and has a well defined application program interface – API that allows test engineers and technicians to create unique tests using the Pyton programming language. For design and manufacturing companies, time to market can be critical and automated testing can reduce development time and cost.

A New Broadcaster Service – Selling Ad Viewing Metrics to Advertisers

2011-06-29T03:44:00.000-07:00

Gathering and providing viewing measurements for television advertising can provide advertisers with Internet like tracking and generate new revenues for television broadcasters. Paul Haddad from Concurrent explained to me that broadcasters can setup their systems to accurately measure TV viewing. Traditionally, TV broadcasters have been reluctant to provide measurement information to advertisers. This information can be critical for advertisers to understand how to adjust their advertising content and campaigns to maximize their marketing efforts. A key reason that advertising budgets have been shifting to Internet based marketing due to tracking capability. In addition to helping advertisers with their marketing campaigns, TV broadcasters can also earn additional revenues from selling tracking information.
Some of the measurements include video on demand -VOD, linear, interactive, DVR, online and wireless video consumption. TV viewing measurement enables marketing managers to optimize current advertising campaigns and identify new revenue producing opportunities while reducing operational expenses. The Concurrent advertising metrics system provides real time, census-level data on consumer video consumption. It is based on the SCTE-130 ad insertion and enhanced TV binary interchange format – eBIF industry standards. The metrics data can be screen-agnostic and viewer anonymous providing accurate video consumption measurements while maintaining the privacy of the viewers.

Multiplatform Content Protection for Controlled STB and Open Internet Connected Devices

2011-06-28T03:05:00.000-07:00

To compete (and to survive), TV broadcasters are developing have new business models that deliver content to many types of devices on a mixture of controlled and open systems and devices. Geir Bjorndal from Conax explained to me at the IPTV World show that the security systems need to support new business models that include a mixture of controlled (set top boxes) and open (gaming consoles) require advanced content security processes and systems. More high value content is available for free or at very low cost through unauthorized sources. As broadband market penetration increases, there will be many more Internet connected devices. The TV broadcaster needs to provide TV anytime on multiple screens which results in new security challenges. Users need a simple experience regardless of the types of devices that they use. TV broadcasters need a single content security management interface that can integrate across managed and unmanaged distribution networks and devices.

Key Types of TV Application Categories for Television Broadcasters

2011-06-27T04:30:00.000-07:00

TV applications types can generate revenues and increase subscriber loyalty for television broadcasters. Michael Lantz from Accedo Broadband explained to me at the IPTV World show that Accedo Broadband is continually discovering, developing, and testing many new types of TV Apps with great results. Some of the key TV apps that have been successful include certain types of games which include board, arcade, quizzes, puzzles, casino and kids. Casual games are always popular among all ages and you can use them as a revenue generator or as a loyalty tool. Social media services such as Facebook, Twitter and Myspace are important for integration possibilities with other applications. Michael discussed that the Internet has many attractive and successful applications that are suitable for TV usage. Information services like Internet movie database – IMDB, Wikipedia, Photo services like Flickr, and Picasa are good examples. A killer category for TV apps is video on demand that provides broadcasters with the opportunity to provide long tail video content such as video art, karaoke, lifestyle and more. This type of content can be integrated into other applications providing new sources of revenue and to be used as a way to differentiator services. Other successful TV apps provide access to real time information such as sports, finance, weather, politics, and more. By integrating these information sources with local or international content, consumers can get information from brands they trust.

Common STB Software Platforms – TV Broadcasters Need a Standard Architecture

2011-06-24T03:14:00.000-07:00

The need for TV broadcasters to provide service to and support multiple set top box - STB devices becoming extremely complex. Robin Rutili from Zenterio explained to me at the IPTV World show that a TV broadcaster may have hundreds of different STB device types in their system. This makes it difficult for TV broadcasters to support and maintain several types of devices and platform types. The setup of new subscriber services can take much longer and require more resources (cost). It also reduces the ability of a TV broadcaster to transition to more cost effective STBs that use new chipsets. This solve this challenge, Zenterio has created a modular system architecture that uses integration layers. This makes it possible to integrate the same software platform with different hardware manufacturers and their devices. When new features or services are added, the integration layer automatically handles the adaptation to many types of devices.

Protecting TV Video Content that is Viewed on Multiple Types of Consumer Electronic – CE Devices

2011-06-23T03:46:00.000-07:00

The ability for consumers to watch video on multiple types of devices that are not owned or directly controlled by the content provider or distributor requires multiple types of security processes. Tom van Gorder from Arxan explained to me at the IPTV World show that effectively protecting access to content on CE devices (white boxes) is critical for getting licenses that allow broadcasters to deliver popular content. TV video content security systems should be able to control access, protect content, and detect attempts to defeat the security systems.
Arxan has gained significant experience in software security by adding protection processes (hardening) to software applications in late 1990s. These security enhancements were critical to the success of the network gaming industry which is a multi-billion dollar industry. It is full of highly skilled and motivated hackers.
To protect software and services, Arxan has developed ways to secure rights management, protection content from copying and alteration, and tamper resistant systems. Some of the key capabilities include using static and dynamic keys, multiple encryption algorithms such as AES, RSA, and ECC, proven security standards (OMA, DRM, DTCP-IP and WMDRM), watermarking, tamper detection capabilities (breach management), and rapid patch distribution to its software. Many of these processes can be used to help protect television content that is delivered to CE devices such as gaming consoles, multimedia computers, and mobile devices.

Key Features for White Label OTT Platforms – Hosted Internet TV

2011-06-22T03:14:00.000-07:00

Companies now have the option to rapidly setup TV broadcasting services using a ready to use and brand white label Internet TV system. Stephan Crainic from IP Vision explained to me at the IPTV World show that there are key features and support services that are important to ready to use Internet TV broadcasting systems.
A key element is the capability of the system to add branding logos and features which is the way customers can differentiate service providers. Registration should allows customers (self-service) or call center agents to add users to the system (register). The registration process should be secure as it requires the entry of payment details. It should also associate a TV viewing device with the users account.
The subscriber management system should allow the operator to view the account details, payment history, browse content delivery, and organize information. A payment gateway should be able to integrate to existing system. It should include pay as you go payment methods and include advertising funded payments.
Subscription services should support multiple subscription models including packages for short and long term periods. The subscription services should be flexible and adaptable. An advertising management module should be able to identify and manage supporting content. It should provide access to audited data for viewing on both static and dynamic advertising content. An important feature is the ability to disable trick-play during adverts so the viewer cannot fast forward or skip commercials.
Support services should include management tools that have first line and second line support. Remote diagnostics and assisted installs can be critical for operators with limited technical and support staff. There should be capability to process equipment returns and access to refurbishment facilities.

Connecting TVs in the Home without Coax – Self Installing Home Media Networks on Electric Power Lines

2011-06-21T01:59:00.000-07:00

TV broadcasters and television viewers both need the same thing, a simple way to connect additional televisions in the home. Rob Ranck from HomePlug explained to me at the IPTV World show that there is a growing need for high-speed home networks that can provide both data and reliable media services and to be self installed. The HomePlug powerline networking system has continued to evolve to provide increased data transmission speeds (up to 400 Mbps), support for mixed media services (data and television), with high levels of security. One of the key features of the HomePlug system is its ability for end users to self-install (plug and connect).
The increased data transmission rates are made possible by using all of the conductors (both power lines and the ground wire). Transmission of multiple types of media (data, digital audio, and digital video) can be automatically sensed, prioritized, and distributed. To increase the security level, a security password can be set on all the units and plug them in.
HomePlug devices come ready to use. The consumer simply plugs in the HomePlug devices into outlets and connects the data line. Devices can be setup to work as a group (several within a home or apartment) by pressing a pairing button on the devices within a short period of time. HomePlug technology is already built into a wide variety of consumer electronics – CE products which allows the consumer to simply plug in the device (such as a television display) and it is ready to use!

SDI Device Switching Scalability – Getting More Ports, Increased Control, and Higher Signal Integrity

2011-06-20T05:00:00.000-07:00

Creating SDI devices with more ports requires a more effective crosspoint switching components. Juan Garza from Vitesse explained to me at the NAB trade show that TV producers and broadcasters use SDI for many applications such as real time and remote viewing on each input and the need for more advanced SDI devices is increasing. SDI crosspoint devices and systems need new monitoring, routing, and signal integrity capabilities. To enable higher capacity SDI switching capability, Vitesee has devices that can provide data rates up to 11 Gbps. They include many programmable features including signal equalization, output drive levels, power-down control for unused channels, and more. The input and output lines in the chip include terminations which reduces the device cost by eliminating additional components. The chips include added routing, switching, and signal integrity processing which enables them to be used in telecommunication and Ethernet applications. The switching core is non-blocking and it can provide protocol-transparent transmission allowing each channel to run independently.

Reliable Mobile Transmitter for Live SD or HD Capture – Using Multiple Mobile Data Connections

2011-06-17T04:20:00.000-07:00

Having the right equipment to do live video capturing can mean being the first company to get critical stories or being one of the followers. Douglas Grant from Dejero explained to me that there are several ways for broadcasters to get live video which include satellite, microwave, and mobile systems. Using mobile systems provide one of the fastest and most cost effective ways to get live video. To ensure a reliable mobile connection, Dejero has created a mobile transmitter that can handle SD or HD capture and transmit using multiple data connections. Some of the data connections can even be on different mobile telephone systems increasing the overall reliability and capacity of the transmission. The Dejero transmitter automatically splits the media transmission over multiple connections and reassembles them at the receiving end.

Statistical Caching for TV can Reduce Transmission Bandwidth by 30% to 40%

2011-06-15T04:18:00.000-07:00

TV broadcasting network operators need to find better ways to increase their capacity. Charlie Baker from PeerApp explained to me at IPTV World that TV broadcasters need more efficient ways to use their network bandwidth as media consumption shifts from linear to on demand. A key way to get significant network bandwidth savings is to use statistical caching. Constantly upgrading network capacity can be very expensive and manually distributing content throughout a network can be complex and time consuming. A better way to increase network capacity at low cost is to automate the caching process. A smart video caching system monitors the consumption of popular content, stores popular content close to the viewers, and automatically redirects repeated media requests to the stored content. Peer App created the UltraBand system which supports caching of content in multiple formats (MPEG, FLV, WMV) and it does not require proxy servers or changes in the client devices. On average, the UltraBand system reduces network bandwidth by over 30% to 40%.

End to End Standards for IPTV and Interactive TV Broadcast Systems

2011-06-14T04:25:00.001-07:00

TV broadcasters get access to lower cost equipment and have flexibility to customize their systems when the use industry standards. David “Borris” Fell from the Open IPTV Forum - OIPF explained to me at the IPTV world trade show that end to end standards for IPTV systems can be important to ensure reliable, scalable, and interoperable systems. The Open IPTV Forum was started in 2007 to create standards that allow “plug-and-play” experiences for both viewers and broadcasters. TV broadcast systems have become very complex and use many advanced techniques to provide services. The open standards created by the OIPF allow broadcasters to develop their own unique services. Unlike other industry groups, the OIPF forum is fully open to participation across the communication and entertainment industries. This helps to ensure the interest of consumers, network operators, content providers, service providers, consumer electronics manufacturers, and home network equipment providers can influence the industry standards.

Research Study Finds Critical Key Features for IPTV Set Top Boxes

2011-06-13T04:28:00.000-07:00

TV broadcasters that select or authorize set top boxes for their systems can benefit from having some key features. J’Amy Stewart and Teresa Mastrangelo from Infonetics explained to me at the IPTV World show that good research for TV systems and products can make a bid difference in the success and performance of their business. Infonetics performs significant research in key TV technology, business, and device areas including hybrid services industry, electronic program guide – EPG marketplace, and content delivery network – CDN trends. A recent Infonetics study identified critical features that carriers need in their set top boxes. The study found that strong industry competition had led to significant changes to STBs. Critical features include HDMI inputs for 1080p, integrated hard drives for PVR support, USB inputs for external memory, the use of SoC in system design, and environmentally friendly features. Ethernet is the preferred connection type for interconnecting to other devices in the home. A surprising result was that video conferencing is was not a critical feature.

Transcoding Management – Managing and Automating Media Conversion

2011-06-12T04:38:00.000-07:00

Transcoding is part of almost every TV workflow process and choosing the right transcoding management system can mean the difference between praise for high quality and low cost or overwork and potential media production disasters. Brian Stevenson from Digital Rapids explained to me at the IPTVWorld show that transcoder and management systems can be very different. Some allow for deep configuration of media output parameters which enables operators to adapt and optimize media for specific types of devices and applications. Good transcoding management systems should be able to automate transcoding jobs, support multiple formats, optimize performance, provide high quality, and be scalable.
Converting media (transcoding) is part of almost every workflow process. Transocding systems need to integrate with multiple workflow systems. They should standardize contributed media formats and repurpose content for production and archiving. Media file inputs include non-linear editors, broadcast playout servers, contributed content, stored media (DVD, Blu-Ray), file based media, digital asset management (DAM) archives, and other media types of media sources. Media file outputs include broadcast (Cable, IPTV, VOD), Internet web, mobile, optical media (DVD, Blu-Ray), media files (for production systems), and digital asset management systems.
Transcoding management system should be able to work with transcoder farms, transcoding engines, and provide for an efficient allocation of jobs across multiple transcoders. It can be extremely helpful to have automated capabilities such as commercial black removal, black border detection and correction, quality control (QC) analysis, and others can save time and improve quality. Transcoding systems should have well defined and reliable application program interfaces (APIs) that allow for integration with other third-party systems (such as databases support systems).

Smart Push Video on Demand – Hybrid Linear and VOD Service Delivery Platform

2011-06-10T05:08:00.000-07:00

TV broadcasters are being forced by consumers to upgrade their linear broadcast systems to include on demand services. Derek Coetzee from Digisoft explained to me at the IPTV World show that broadcasters face multiple challenges for on demand systems including distribution bandwidth limitations and headend storage and processing requirements. A solution that can help is for broadcasters to use a smart push video on demand system that provides new services and a better user experience while reducing the burden on the broadcaster’s system.
A smart push video on demand system combines a hybrid electronic program guide - EPG with an advanced personal video recorder – PVR application that allows the viewer to access both broadcast and stored media. The Digisoft push VOD system is a Java based middleware. It includes Java object libraries and widgets that allow broadcasters to customize their applications and services. These new services include time shifted TV, personal digital video services, and interactive educational TV services.

Smarter TV Asset Management – Integrating IT and Television Broadcast Systems

2011-06-08T04:23:00.000-07:00

TV broadcasters of all types are becoming overwhelmed by the identification and management of many new types of media assets. Fearghal Kelly from Ioko explained to me at the IPTV World show that broadcasters need smarter identification, storage, and transfer of their media assets. TV broadcasters need to find and access more content across multiple devices and provide interactivity and community features for their content. To expand broadcaster service and system capabilities, managed platform services and service oriented architecture – SOA can be used. This allows existing IT systems to be integrated with broadcast systems.
Some of the required functionality includes search, EPG, community, recommendation, customer resource management, television commerce (advertising, pay per view, direct sales), content syndication, and more. In addition to providing core services, a broadcaster platform should be able to securely integrate with other systems and provide for higher level functions such as application management and software deployment. To expand broadcaster service and system capabilities, managed platform services can be used. This allows existing IT systems to be integrated with broadcast systems.

Automating and Speeding Up Video Content Quality Verification

2011-06-07T04:21:00.000-07:00

TV broadcasters are adding more content from new sources which increase the need for video quality verification. Fereidoon Khosravi from Venera Technologies explained to me at the NAB trade show that the amount of time and labor required for content verification needs to decrease. Manual quality control (QC) can take excessive amount of labor which can have unreliable results and slow down the ability to produce and release content (slowing workflow). The solution is to automate quality verification when possible using a content verification software tool. The tool needs to be simple to use and must integrate into existing content workflow systems. It should automatically detect codec specifications, media format restrictions, video parameters including aspect ratio, color space & depth, frame size & rate, GOP structure, and other criteria. Video quality checks should include blockiness, black frames, clipping, brightness, freeze frames, and others. Audio quality checks should include silence, loudness, tones, audio drop, peaks, and others.

NetFlix and other Internet TV Companies are Building a Better Internet

2011-06-02T08:10:00.000-07:00

Numerous people have commented to me that NetFlix and other Internet TV providers such as Vudu and Amazon Video are now using a major amount of bandwidth on the Internet. As I understand it, it costs an Internet TV - OTT Provider approximately 2 to 3 cents for bandwidth to deliver a movie through the Internet. With over 23 million NetFlix viewers consuming about 10 hours of video per month, this seems to imply that NetFlix and other Internet TV providers are paying for the growth of the Internet.

Smart Home Media Server – Increasing Performance While Reducing Broadcast Traffic and Processing

2011-05-25T04:30:00.000-07:00

TV broadcast systems can dramatically benefit by updating their centralized broadcasted system into a distributed system that uses smart home media servers. Yann Courqueux from NetGem explained to me at the IPTV World show that by using home media servers, broadcasters can increase the number and quality of services they provide to consumers while reducing transmission bandwidth and the processing burden on the headend. The solution involves the creation of a “Home Cloud” that uses distributed middleware to coordinate and control access to content.
The home media server can run applications in silos within the home which offloads capacity from the headend. This reduces bandwidth on the distribution network, provides faster response time to the user, and allows the user to access content that is not on the headend.
Traditional TV systems have focused on broadcast services to the customer. Hybrid IPTV systems provide broadcast services to the customer additional over the top services (such as NetFlix). Eventually, systems will evolve into IPTV 2.0 home media clouds that offer users access to blended media. Blended media is content that is gathered from multiple sources and presented to the user. An example of blended media is the display of a program guide list that includes broadcast channels from a TV network along with content from other sources such as YouTube or local video sources.

Hosted Interactive TV Application Development Platform – Ready to Use Development System

2011-05-24T05:01:00.000-07:00

Choosing the right interactive platform for TV broadcasters can critically influence the success and survival of TV broadcasters. Matjaz Bevk from BeeSmart explained to me during the OTTCon show that having a ready to use development system allows TV broadcasters to rapidly develop and deploy interactive services. The hosted interactive TV application development platform created by BeeSmart enables broadcasters or development companies to create interactive applications over a broadcast network (cable TV, IPTV, and other network types) with minimal network upgrades. New interactive apps can add high profit margin services and increase average revenue per user – ARPU. The BeeSRM system enables the broadcast operator to deliver interactive content over the existing network communication channels (such as DVB-C). The BeeSRM is compatible with the Cable Labs standard for modular headend architectures allow for its use on broadcast systems that use different headend equipment manufacturers.

Multi-Codec Compression – Dynamically Selecting and Using the Best Media Codec

2011-05-20T04:22:00.000-07:00

Making the wrong choice on coding systems and configurations can result in higher cost, lower quality, and lost customers for broadcasters. Steve Jones from Broadcast International explained to me at the IPTV World show that broadcasters can reduce their bandwidth needs by up to 75% by using a multi-codec media compression technology. To enable this process, Broadcast International developed the CodecSys open software architecture. The process involves analyzing each video stream, choosing an optimal codec from an available library, and selecting the best coded instantiation for a segment of video (frame or media sequence). The CodecSys continuously evaluates and optimizes each segment on a scene by scene basis. This provides the highest possible quality using the lowest possible bandwidth.

Video Cameras with Integrated Multiple Stream Format Broadcasting Capability

2011-05-19T04:17:00.000-07:00

Broadcasters and people need a simple way to install and setup high quality video cameras that broadcast through the Internet. Deepa B. from MCN Technologies explained to me at the CES show that integrated video cameras can be setup quickly that do not require extra equipment to purchase, setup, and manage. The integrated video camera combines the camera, media compression, and streaming server in one device. The MCN video camera uses H.264 HD media compression which is streams live over the Internet using HTTP streaming protocol. The camera can simultaneously provide streams with multiple resolutions that includes 720p (1280 by 720), VGA (640 by 480), QVGA (320 by 240), and SQVGA (160 by 120). This allows for viewing on multiple types of devices such as HD displays or mobile devices.

Amazing Touchscreen Display Sensory Feedback System – Feels Like the Real Thing!

2011-05-18T04:12:00.000-07:00

Getting usable physical feedback from touch screen displays (haptics) can be the difference between a successful application and a market failure. Dennis Sheehan from Immersion demonstrated to me during the CES show a guitar application on a Smartphone that actually felt like plucking guitar strings. He discussed that there is more to creating applications that provide physical senses that simply turning a vibrating motor (actuator) on and off. Immersion developed the TouchSense® Tactile Feedback System that enables application development companies to precisely control an actuator to play haptic effects. Immersion provides smart engineering tool kits with include application program interfaces - APIs and other tools for inserting function calls to play haptic effects into software applications. The kit includes a pre-packaged haptic touch monitor with sample applications that allow you to experience haptic effects and test your own application. Immersion also provides a haptic performance evaluation kit that allows designers and test technicians to develop and measure the haptic response of their applications and systems.

Open Internet TV Application Development Platform

2011-05-17T03:47:00.000-07:00

Application developers are facing a key challenge when developing TV applications. Dan Kelly from Boxee D-Link explained that TV STBs and connected TVs have multiple platforms. This means that developers currently have to adapt their applications for multiple systems. This can take time, have high cost, and can result in some incompatibilities. Dan discussed that an open TV application development program will solve these challenges.
The TV application system offered by Boxee D-Link allows for apps to be locally hosted or web based. They already provide access to a content library that combine sources of existing content library (TV Shows and Movie library) with other user generated and stored content. To support developers, D-Link has setup and assists with forums and Wiki based application development support systems. A large application library contains a mix of very popular rich media content applications including video, must, and video services. A key to development success is the availability of detailed application and API documentation. APIs documentation support includes Python, Browser/Javascript, GUI/XML, RSS, and Remote Control Interface. If you are involved in TV application development, it is worth looking at the D-Link TV application development platform.

Better Internet TV Video Streaming – Accelerator Ensures Bandwidth to Provide Higher Quality

2011-05-12T04:06:00.000-07:00

Viewers can benefit from better video quality using less expensive bandwidth package from their ISP. Gilad Brand from WebTView explained to me at the OTTCon trade show that connected devices such as Connected TVs, Blu-Ray players, and media players can get higher quality video using lower bandwidth through the use of an accelerator for services such as Hulu, NBC, Fox, and YouTube. The accelerator eliminates freezes and buffering delays. The WebTView Accelerator is a software module that can be included in the viewing device (client side) without requiring changes in the content providers system. It reduces traffic delays that are related to backbone limitations, optimizes the use of transmission bandwidth, and can be easily integrated into existing hardware devices.

How to Monitor and Analyze IPTV and Internet TV Customer Viewing Quality – Smarter Testing

2011-05-11T05:56:00.000-07:00

IPTV and Internet TV operators need to monitor and control the quality of service – QoS within their systems. Piram Manickam from First Media xPertis explained to me at the OTTCon show that IPTV and Internet TV broadcasters need to monitor and control the overall quality of experience – QoE for multiple types of displays on many types of devices including mobile phones and tablets. To do this, xPertis develop the First Media system which uses a subscriber viewing experience - SVE model. The First Media system converts device performance, usage statistics, and network parameters into an easy to understand mean opinion score - MOS. This information is available from a web portal that can gather and correlate the data from access probes located at key points within the network. This allows the broadcaster to easily identify, measure, and understand the key issues that may be emerging in their networks.

A Smarter Open EPG – Merging Broadcast Content with Shared Social TV Channels

2011-05-10T04:36:00.000-07:00

Consumers need a better way to find, organize, and share program viewing experiences with friends. Sherman Tuan from 9x9 Network explained to me during the OTTCon show that the Internet is already saturated with digital content. Viewers need a program guide system that enables them to discover and get content they value from broadcasters, the Internet, and from their peer groups (point to point – P2P content). Content owners are looking for new ways to distribute and monetize their content. Using the 9x9 network system, viewers can create their own program channels which can be categorized and ranked by friends and other viewers. This ecosystem can be tied into a subscription service and smart TV advertising system providing content owners and broadcasters with new revenue streams.

Adding Broadband OTT Internet TV Services to Existing TV Broadcast Systems

2011-05-09T06:17:00.001-07:00

TV broadcasters need to expand their systems to offer OTT Internet TV to reach new customers and keep existing customers from leaving. Doug Wills from Minerva Networks explained to me during the OTTCon show that the market pressure from new over the top companies such as NetFlix and Amazon Instant Video is accelerating the need for existing broadcasters to add Internet TV services. By adding OTT capability to their TV broadcast systems, the operator can increase the average revenue per user and reduce churn.
In addition to the new OTT providers providing pay per view services, their systems are being used by many types of devices. This means that the traditional TV broadcaster need to upgrade their systems to provide Internet TV services needs to reach many types of devices. The Minerva xTVFusion platform is an integrated solution that includes streaming servers, client software, and back office systems. It integrates content management, third party applications, OSS/BSS systems, conditional access, VOD servers, and OTT media streaming servers. Doug explained that some of the key interfaces that are essential to an Internet TV system include an administration management service, channel management service, asset management service, device management service, entitlement management service, messaging service, and reporting services.

Integrating TV News Production Systems – Succeeding in Competitive Television News Marketplace

2011-05-06T04:33:00.000-07:00

TV news broadcasters are being forced by a highly competitive marketplace to rapidly evolve their content management systems for streamlined video production. Jesse Jon Francis from Kit Digital explained to me at the OTTCon show that Broadcasters and Network Operator's real challenge is finding ways to extended their traditional Broadcast systems and content to the Web and Connected Devices. As the industry shifts this way, this challenge is being alleviated by cloud-based Video Asset Management Solutions (VAM) to help deliver the premium content to their audiences in the most efficient manor while increasing interactivity and creating more in depth video experiences.
TV news broadcasters are facing a critical production challenge of gathering, and identifying many new sources of content and producing them quickly for broadcast. They need to integrate ingest controllers, a newsroom, craft editing workstations, media management, and playout systems. TV broadcasters now accept content from multiple sources including traditional news gathering sources (field reporters) as well as mobile telephones, wire feeds, and the Internet. To process the media, TV news systems need to have user friendly interfaces which allow voiceovers and allow for the use of computer generated graphic – CG templates. In addition to have an integrated electronic news gathering - ENG system, it is important to have support services including training, supervision, and maintenance that ensures production staff can cost effectively produce quality news content even in highly active news periods.

TV Program Revenue Sharing and Partner Settlement - Television Content Clearinghouse

2011-05-05T03:45:00.000-07:00

Existing and new TV broadcasters are discovering that they need good content from new sources. ViJay Sajja from Evergent explained to me during the OTTCon show that the TV broadcasters need billing and support systems that can perform as a content clearinghouse by performing revenue sharing and partner settlement. The system need to be able to document partner agreements, define revenue allocation rules, apply settlement rules, and automatically create revenue invoices and process settlement payments. Effective billing systems should be able to monetize multiple types of content such as games, software applications, video, and music using subscription, paid content, and advertising models. It should be able to support a large number of content and service items and process payments in multiple currencies.

Self-Serve Television Advertising – Advertisers Create and Upload their Own TV Commercials

2011-05-04T03:02:00.000-07:00

Advertisers have been blocked from doing highly targeted television advertising until now. Dennis Nugent from STB Advertising explained to me at the OTTCon show that advertisers can now get some of the same control, benefits, and measurements from TV advertising as their Internet Marketing programs. Traditional broadcasters and media agencies have been slow to adopt new improved TV advertising technologies and services. To solve this, STB Advertising has created a TV advertising platform that allows advertisers to directly setup and control their own advertising campaigns (self-service television advertising). The STB advertising platform (Ad Zones) allows companies to place pre-roll video ads that are targeted to specific ad zones which can be based advertise on geography, languages, and content genres. Because viewers must watch the pre-roll ads before viewing programs, this provides advertisers with a much higher return on their advertising spend (ROAS). Some of the key features of the ad zone store include:

- Advanced ad targeted
- Ad shopping cart
- Advanced and automated reports
- CPM, CPC, and Pay-Per-Day campaign options
- Action based pricing
- Multiple currencies
- Multiple languages

Advertisers can also create new commercials using a gallery of production quality customizable TV commercials (typically 5 to 30 seconds). The ad creation system has advanced logo and text handing features.

A Unified Media Server – Converting One Source to Multiple Device and Screen Formats

2011-05-03T04:20:00.000-07:00

The streaming server choice by broadcasters can determine which types of devices and formats they can provide. Dave Stubinvol from Wowza explained to me at the OTTCon show that it is becoming more critical for broadcasters to support many new types of devices and screen formats. To enable this, Wowza developed a unified media service that can be used for live and on-demand media streaming. The media server can convert H.264 content to multiple device and screen formats including Flash, Quicktime, and Silverlight, for desktop, set top boxes, and mobile devices. The media server can simultaneously convert to these formats. This allows for the reduction in the number of media servers and file formats that would be used for multiple formats. The media server also provides adaptive multi-bitrate streaming which can reduce the bandwidth and increase the overall quality of service for the user.

The Future of Television: Research that Predicts what TV Will Become

2011-05-02T05:52:00.000-07:00

Would you like to know how televisions will change over the next few years? During my interview with Scott Puopolo from Cisco at the OTTCon show, he shared with me some of Cisco’s extensive research with manufacturers, content producers, service broadcasters and academic experts. Some of their predictions may surprise you.

The research and analysis shows that the three main influences to these events happening include technology, consumer behavior and business models. Some of the key supporting technologies include displays (digital paper and projection devices), ultra-high bandwidth connections and new types of human interfaces (sensory devices). How consumers will discover and consume media have started to change. People are using social networks (Digg) and on demand content (YouTube), and participating in the creation of TV programs. Media business models are evolving from providing a limited number of linear based channels to aggregating many content sources (NetFlix), recommending relevant programs, and adapting media for specific viewers (personalized ads on Facebook). Using this information, the IBSG has identified 10 Predictions for the future of TV.

1. TV Channels Go Away
2. No Remote Control Required
3. Viewing Screens Anywhere
4. Personalized Ads
5. Immersive Content
6. Virtual Group Viewing
7. Five Senses Television (Is it Real or is it TV)?
8. Follow-Me Television (TV Roaming)
9. Anyone can Produce TV
10. Viral TV Production

To read the article that explains the predictions, go to:

IPTV Magazine Article: The Future of Television by Scott Puopolo.

A More Efficient Media Streaming Protocol

2011-05-02T03:53:00.000-07:00

Streaming media over unmanaged IP connections has some key timing, efficiency, and distance challenges. Uri Avni from Zixi explained to me at the OTTCon show that the use of more effective streaming protocols can overcome the channel change delays and inefficient use of bandwidth. Using these improved protocols, the Internet can deliver crystal clear HD video without long startup delay, buffer events, or freeze frames. To Zixi protocol can use existing encoder formats. This technology can be used on both the distribution side (to the customer) and on the aggregation side (from the content source). According to Uri, the Zixi protocol simply better uses the connection capacity and streaming control processes.

Multiple Service Access Network Core Can Handle the Mix of Low Latency and High Bandwidth Services

2011-04-29T06:14:00.000-07:00

Access provider networks are experiencing dramatic new demands from mixed services. Brian Caskey from Zhone explained to me during the TelcoTV show that access provider core networks are becoming stressed with the increased use of multiple types of services. In some cases, the core networks used by access providers cannot be expanded to provide the new high bandwidth services such as IPTV (managed) and Internet Video (unmanaged). To help access providers expand their systems, a multi-service core can be used. Multi-service solutions allow access networks to provide a mix of services using a single system. This can provide a significant reduction in CAPEX and OPEX costs while enabling the operator to provide new revenue producing services. Key features for multi-service systems should include the ability to support a mixture of access types (copper, fiber), high concentration density, and switching capability.

Providing Better HD Encoding Quality at Low Bit Rates (below 5 Mbps) and with Lower Costs

2011-04-28T05:01:00.000-07:00

Choosing the right media encoder can mean the difference between happy customers and trouble calls. Harlan McGhan from Telarity explained to me at the TelcoTV show that while media decoding is defined by industry standards, the encoding process can dramatically vary. The Telarity encoder uses 5 video processor cores that can independently operate but can interact with each other providing over 50 billion operations per second. Because the encoding software is not directly embedded in the core, it is field upgradable via a software download. The encoding software is fully customizable to help meet specialized encoding requirements allow for the rapid development of encoders for specialized needs.

A Better Personal Video Recorder – PVR with Smart Recording Features

2011-04-27T03:43:00.000-07:00

Having the ability to provide media time shifting and portability is becoming a critical requirement for broadcasters. Steve Francis from Avtrex explained to me at the CES show that consumers expect better organized and more access to their media sources – live or stored. To provide these advanced features, Avtrex has developed the modular software architecture personal video recorder (PRV). The system can provide users with the ability to more easily identify, display, and sorting live and stored content. The Bonus time™ feature analyzes the selected program to see if additional time should be recorded around the scheduled program record times (such as a sports game that goes into overtime). The PRV architecture enables smart home media distribution by using an intelligent central resource that can manage and coordinate the transfer between multiple devices (including devices with tuners) via multiple connection types (wired or wireless).

Amazing Smart Phone TV Soft Remote - Allows a Viewer to Search, Select, and Control Media from Multiple Sources and Link to Multiple Types of Viewing

2011-04-26T03:56:00.000-07:00

Consumers need a better way to find, organize, and select a mixture of live and stored media programs to watch. RavivMoore from Eyecon Technologies explained to me at the TelcoTV show that consumers have a mixture of media source options, network options, and viewing options. Their TV control device should be able to help them find and choose their source based on various criteria such as cost or quality. For example, the viewer may choose to watch a movie that is free because it is part of their TV broadcast subscription program or paid content. The Eyecom system allows a user to search multiple sources (e.g. NetFlix, Youtube, home media), select (specific program), and play media on multiple types of devices (such as TVs, media players, mobile video devices). The Eyecom system leverages DLNA to coordinate the access rights. The Eyecon system is integrated with Rovi to allow the user to search through program descriptive information (e.g. program metadata).

Using Cloud Based Video Production Platforms

2011-04-25T11:37:00.000-07:00

If multiple people are working on video projects across the world, it is difficult to ensure everyone has access to the files and video project. At NAB 2011, Jostein Svendsen of Creaza explained that cloud based video production platforms simplify collaborative editing. Anyone from a professional to novice broadcaster can shoot and capture media with a camera or mobile phone and sync it to a private media cloud where users can share and edit media clips. Edits can include titles, transitions, effects, animation and more. Once the clip is finished, it can be published online to social networks and video scrapbooks.

Getting More than 400 Mbps Transmission Throughput on Home Electrical Powerlines

2011-04-25T04:54:00.000-07:00

Home media devices continue to require increases in usable bandwidth and powerline data transmission technology has evolved to provide more available transmission bandwidth. Joseph Spisak from Sigma Designs demonstrated to me during the CES show the transmission of over 400 Mbps on powerlines using the G.HN.MIMO technology. He explained that powerline data transmission can benefit from similar MIMO technology that is used in WiFi systems. By combining multiple transmission paths between power conductors and the ground wire, powerline data transmission can become more reliable and have much higher capacity. This provides a much higher data transmission rate while also increasing the quality and reliability of the transmitted signal.

Making Better Touch Pads by Including Gestures and Multi-Touch Capability

2011-04-25T03:31:00.000-07:00

Touchpads are essential for smartphones and other interactive but not all screen touch devices and capability are the same. Chao-Tung-Lin from Synaptics explained to me at the CES trade show that the capabilities of touch screens devices can determine how the user can interact with the device. Less expensive touch screen pads only allow one or two touch sensing points. Full touch screen pads allow for many (such as 10 fingers). In addition to the capability to detect multiple touch points, touch pads may also be able to recognize specific gestures. A gesture is a sequence of touch pad motion actions that can be recognized. Gestures may be learned and associated with specific application functions. Synaptics has developed enhanced gesture recognition (EGR) that can identify two finger flick, ChiralMotion™, and ChiralRotate™. These gestures can enhance the user experience and provide for more intuitive user interfaces.

Creating TV Program Listing Guides at Lower Cost

2011-04-22T13:42:00.000-07:00

Creating program guides can be a complicated and costly challenge for television broadcasters. Robert Lemky from DSI explained to me during the TelcoTV show that there are alternative choices for sources of TV listings electronic program guide – EPG information. Program guide information can be provided in standardized XML or CSV format that allows the broadcaster to easily adapt it to their listing channel. All that is needed is a computer running a compatible MicroSoft Windows operating system. The system can even be setup to enable the insertion of advertising messages into the program guide.

Providing Set Top Box Features to Meet Market Requirements

2011-04-20T07:24:00.000-07:00

With the increasing costs of deployment and increasing customer demands, set top box manufacturers have to consider the necessary features to include in set-top boxes. At NAB 2011, Vince Harradine and Joseph Spisak from Sigma Designs, explained that in order to be competitive, media processors should contain advanced features such as OTT content (such as Hulu or Netflix), widgets, and multiplatform support. The integration of Z-Wave enabled home automation, home security monitoring and home management products allows service providers to offer subscribers premium services. In addition to 3D video capabilities, the inclusion of 3D graphics enables customizable user interfaces to provide an interactive experience for the consumer.

Implementing Rich Media Overlays to Enhance Brand Engagement

2011-04-19T07:39:00.000-07:00

Advertisers are looking for new ways to make video ad campaigns more effective. By providing rich media overlays, advertisers can increase brand engagement. At NAB 2011, Greg Philpott from mDialog explained that delivering interactive or rich media synchronized to commercial breaks allows for a more interactive and engaging overlay experience for the consumer. Not only are these ads highly targeted in real time, but also they may enhance the feature content. Overlays can be placed in video discretely or provide an immersive, interactive experience.

Internet TV - OTT Viewing Consumption Market Trends

2011-04-14T08:41:00.000-07:00

After meeting with several Internet TV - OTT Hosting Companies, I've been surprised at the dramatic increase in Internet TV viewing time. According to companies I've interviewed, the average viewing of NetFlix has risen from approximately 7 hours per month in 2009 to over 11 hours per month in 2010. Another shocking viewing consumption number was the amount of viewing of International content. According to Global Takeoff (an Internet TV Hosting company), paid subscribers for India television channels watch approximately 5 hours of TV per day.

This seems to validate that Internet TV providers can effectively provide similar quality and content of traditional TV broadcasters.

Creating Hosted TV Widgets Allow Television Broadcasters to Offer New Applications and Services without Major System Changes

2011-04-06T13:20:00.000-07:00

The creation of TV Widgets allows TV system operators to develop new revenue producing services while increasing value offered to the customer (creating sticky customers). Lino Silva from WIT Software explained to me that broadcasters want to be able to compete against new competitors such as Google TV among other IPTV/OTT players. Broadcasters can benefit from being able to deliver over-the-top TV applications (Widgets) that do not require the downloading of software apps to viewing devices. Hosted TV applications run on top of the IPTV middleware (e.g. Microsoft Mediaroom, Netgem, OpenTV) without having to do changes to the broadcast system. Hosted TV applications allow broadcasters to create a TV app marketplace (walled garden). Some of the most popular widgets include Facebook, Picasa, Google News, YouTube, Yahoo! Fantasy Sports, Content Discovery on EPG/VOD/Internet and convergence of voice and messaging communication services with the television interface.

Smart Video Caching Reduces Access Network Bandwidth Consumption for Over the Top Internet TV

2011-04-01T05:36:00.000-07:00

Over the top video services are consuming a substantial amount of access network capacity resources. Gary Southwell from BTI Systems explained to me at the TelcoTV show that a key way to reduce the over the top OTT bandwidth consumption is to use smart video caching services. BTI created the WideCast networking solution that combines wide area networking services with a smart media caching system. The system automatically identifies (self learns) which content should be cached. The types of cached content can include Netflix, YouTube videos, software updates, streaming sites, and gaming data files. The system is designed to manage sessions between consumers and content so the content is protected (cannot be highjacked). The system is scalable allowing for initial deployment in hot spot areas and additional devices can be deployed in other locations as the need increases. Because the devices self-learn, no manual configuration or updating is required.

How to Provide Media Connectivity to Multiple Types of Video Devices

2011-03-31T06:54:00.000-07:00

It is becoming more difficult to provide mulitimedia services (such as mobile video or IPTV) to customers because they expect to access the content on multiple types of devices. Ben Troung from Smith Micro explained to me during the TelcoTV show having a system that can identify and mange the capabilities of devices offers the potential for operators to maximize revenue potential and reduce support costs. To help solve this challenge, Smith Micro created the Vidio clientless solution that can automatically adapt video for different types of devices and media players. The Vidio product is actually a backend server that is able used to deliver video content to a multitude of different devices, such as IPTV set top boxes. Because it is a clientless solution, there’s no need to manage the device on the client side. When a link for video content is selected, information about the device is sent to the Vidio platform and from that, we can determine things like the device’s media player, the best resolution, the best bit rate, the best format, etc. This really simplifies the delivery method for the end users as they are automatically given the right video for their device, whether it is a set top box, desktop pc, mobile smartphone, or tablet. To get more information go to: http://www.smithmicro.com/products/vidio.aspx

Television Remote Control Advertising - Ads on TV Remotes?

2011-03-28T02:27:00.000-07:00

Several companies have amazing soft TV remote applications (TV remote applications on Smartphone and Tablets). In addition to making navigation a much better experience (visual categories, sliding gallaries, and preview windows), there is the possibility for some space dedicated for program recommendations.

While some research has shown that consumers would not initially like advertising messages on their TV remotes, it seems that some forms of advertising may be acceptable. This could include a sponsored by company icon or highly relevant content preview ad.

Choosing the Right System on a Chip (SoC) for Internet TV Devices

2011-02-18T04:55:00.000-08:00

Developing Internet TV products and devices, choosing the integrated circuit can mean the difference between profitable products or significant losses. During my interview with Feng Chen from Rockchip Electronics, he explained that the capabilities of system on chip solutions for Internet TV can dramatically vary. The manufacturer needs to balance between cost, performance, and features and there are some important features and capabilities of SOCs that can help to make a device much more marketable. The SOC should be able to decode multiple media formats including MKV, Xvid, H263, AVS, MPEG4, RV, WMV. Hardware based media decoding may be used for some video formats including Google WebM VP8. This allows the processor to focus on applications rather than using much of its processing resources for media decoding. The SOC should provide for real time decoding of high definition video (up to 1080p). It should support the Android (at least 2.3) and Windows operating systems along with 2D and 3D graphics capability.

Smart Internet TV and Home Network Devices have Personal Cloud Capability

2011-02-17T06:15:00.000-08:00

There is a new way to simply connect many devices, many people, and organize many files that are attached to a home or business network. Todd Schuelke from Iomega explained to me at the CES show that people can now create personal clouds that can be used to share and provide services to other people that they invite join their cloud. Users that are part of a personal cloud can be devices connected within your home network or can they be connected via the Internet (remote access). This allows the sharing of media and resources with friends, family, or associates regardless of where they are located. Personal cloud capability has been included into the iomega dervices such as the Boxee Internet TV set top box. Some of the key features of a personal cloud include:

Synchronization – A personal cloud can be used to automatically synchronize and distribute files or media. This allows you to find and access files regardless of where they are stored or located.
Collaboration – Allows people who are connected to the cloud to create and share files.
Controlled Access – Controls access to devices and media to only people who have been invited and accepted to join the personal cloud.
Secure Distribution – Protects data and media that is transferred between devices in the personal cloud by using AES 128 bit encryption.
Automatic Backup – The personal cloud can be setup to allow for automatic recovery of data that is stored on different devices.
Archiving – The personal cloud can be used to identify, gathering, and store older files for long term storage.

One Click Internet TV Broadcasting

2011-02-16T04:29:00.000-08:00

Setting up a broadcast connection has been complicated until now. Raj Jaswa from Dyyno demonstrated to me the EZ Grabber device that setting up a broadcast can be as simple as one click. All that is necessary is a camera (camcorder), capture device (EZ Grabber), computer (laptop), and access to the Internet that can connect to your broadcast service account. Just point the camera at your event (such as a seminar, meeting, or sport event), click on the EZ broadcaster, and you can be streaming live to multiple broadcast channels. The EZ Grabber device can use composite or S-video inputs and converts and connects the video to the USB port on a computer. The broadcast service can stream to multiple places including YouTube, Roku, Customized Portals (players), and other channels. The system was designed to enable the promotion of broadcasts by promoting the broadcast on Facebook and Twitter.

A Better TV Remote Control for Internet Television

2011-02-15T06:07:00.000-08:00

To access many of the new amazing services and features available on Internet TV, a new type of remote control is needed. Laura Nelson from Logitech showed me during the CES trade show that users need more than a simple combined TV remote and wireless keyboard. There are some special buttons, controls, and functions that can dramatically make using Internet TV intuitive and easy. A better TV remote combines a full Qwerty keyboard, mouse trackpad, and includes other keys that can be used to control advanced television features. An important control is an input selection that allows the viewer to choose from set top box, audio video receiver, or television. A navigation panel that includes back (previous steps), home (personal screen), favorites (marked channels and media), and dual view (window within a window) is included. There is a dedicated search key that starts the search function which allows the viewer to find TV channels, programs, or other media. There are also some shortcut buttons such as the guide (to bring up the program guide), DVR (to store programs on a media recorder), and a TV button (switches to TV mode). There are other dedicated keys such as volume controls, channel up and down keys, and others. Because Internet TV can have many new features (and some additional features in the future), a menu button is used to change the functions of some of the keys (such as zoom in, zoom out).

Simple to Use Desktop Wi-Fi Internet TV and Radio Media Player

2011-02-14T04:47:00.000-08:00

Many consumers can now enjoy a media player that can be located on a desktop, is simple to setup, and easy to use. Joseph Wang from Lookee TV demonstrated a Wi-Fi media player to me at the CES show that was ready to use with access to over 2000 TV and 3000 Internet radio channels. After the desktop media player is connected to a WiFi connection, it is ready to use. The media player provides an easy to use navigation display which can categorize channels and programs based on language, location (region), and genre. Media content that is provided (streamed) through the Internet is at no cost to the user (no subscription fees). Users can also play user media from an SD card, USB connection, or other media that is transferred (uploaded) from a computer. It includes universal plug and play (UPnP) capability which allows other devices on the Wi-Fi network to discover and connect with it. It has a TV output function allowing the device to be connected to standard home televisions. When not in use, the desktop media player can be used as a picture frame while being used as an Internet radio for background music.

The media player can also be setup to select and play podcasts that can include daily news, sports, technology, and weather.

Smart Internet TV - Combining Broadcast TV and Local Internet TV into One Program Guide

2011-02-11T07:24:00.000-08:00

Google TV is not the only system that can combine broadcast TV with Internet TV. Isaac Calderan from IGuGu showed me at the CES how consumers can convert a personal computer into a very smart Internet TV system. He explained that consumers want simple access to all video regardless if it is from a broadcast system (cable TV or satellite TV), Internet TV (NetFlix, YouTube), and other sources. Viewers are also very interested in local video content that may be related to their interests. The IGuGu system identifies local video content sources by using the location of the IP address that the computer is using to connect to the Internet. This allows the TV viewing guide to contain a mixture of popular TV content and local videos programs.
The IGuGu system uses a multimedia computer instead of a television set top box. The user receives a TV remote that contains a full alpha-numeric keys and a mouse to control their viewing experience along with the needed software. Isaac explained that most personal computers have much more processing capability that a television set top box. With a few simple additions to the computer, the computer can become a high performance TV set top box.

Global Positioning System (GPS), 2nd Edition

2011-02-10T11:40:00.000-08:00

This book explains satellite position location technology and how the GPS system has evolved. You will learn the functional parts of GPS systems and how they work together to provide position measurements that are accurate to within centimeters.

The operation of GPS is described including satellite acquisition, signal reception and pseudo-ranging. Discover how time reference and error correction data is used and why it is very important to provide precise satellite positioning. Global positioning system is a navigation system that uses satellites to act as reference points for the calculation of position location. You will learn how GPS devices can use other systems or devices to provide location services when there is a temporary loss of a satellite links.

Explained are the multiple types of civilian and military codes used in the GPS system and how they provide different levels of accuracy and reliability. GPS radio technology is described including the frequencies GPS uses, modulation and power levels.

You will learn about the many applications that use GPS technology including mapping, location monitoring, agriculture control, navigation, navigation warfare (NAVWAR), surveying and structural deformation monitoring. Learn how GPS is used in combination with other position detection systems such as laser ranging to provide 3 dimensional charts and maps.

Using All-In-One IPTV Servers for Smaller IPTV Projects

2011-02-10T09:15:00.000-08:00

The ability for a smaller telco to set up an all inclusive IPTV server system is key for handling smaller projects. At IBC, Konstantin Emelyanov from NetUP explained at all-in-one IPTV Servers that include IPTV middleware with billing capabilities, DVB to IP gateway, a VoD server and video storage, can be used to set up solutions for educational institutions, IPTV labs, show rooms and hospitality services. The NetUP IPTV Combine 4x can be used for providing services in the hotels with special features such as welcome messages on guest check-in, messages from reception, hotel bill previews, express check out and room status(clean, dirty, ready to check-in guests) in addition to providing pay TV and VoD service.

Smart Transcoding Provides Controllable Video Quality Levels and Security Services from Many Sources to Many Types of Devices

2011-02-09T04:56:00.000-08:00

The need for products to include converters (transcoders) is increasing as new products and services use a wide mixture of content formats. Sally Daub and Cedric Caron from VIXS explained to me at the CES show that transcoding devices need to combine transcoding, transcription, transformating, and transrating in ways that ensure the devices provide video and audio quality levels while maintaining the underlying security processes. A key requirement for transcoding can be to control the video quality of service (VQoS) thorugh bit rate adjustment that is smart so it does not exceed available bandwidth. A key feature may include a fit-to-disk capability that can adjust the conversion rate so the content can fit within a defined amount of storage area. There are multiple types of conditional access (CA) and digital rights management (DRM) systems used in systems and devices. These need to be adapted (transcrypted) to enable the security processes to operate and transfer through to other connected devices. The transcoding system should also be able to recover from security breaches and may need to be custom designed for specific security requirements.

Introduction to MPEG

2011-02-08T11:33:00.000-08:00

This book explains the fundamentals of how MPEG works and how MPEG is used in cable television, satellite systems, mobile telecom and Internet television systems. You will discover the basics of audio and video digitization and compression and the standard formats that are used in MPEG files. Introduction to MPEG explains the processes that control media flow and timing synchronization along with how MPEG transmission can monitor and control audio and video quality. You will discover about video compression, streaming services and media control protocols.
MPEG has the capability of providing multiple media channels including data channels that can provide media information such as play list titles, artists and media descriptions. You will learn how these channels are combined and time synchronized along with how to manage quality of service (QoS).

Check out the Free 33 slide Tutorial on the book!

Introduction to Digital Rights Management

2011-02-08T11:16:00.000-08:00

This book explains the fundamentals of digital rights management systems including identifying, tracking, authorizing and restricting access to digital media. You will learn how DRM systems help to protect and enforce copyrights, patents, trademarks, and other forms of intellectual property.

Digital assets can take various forms including audio, data and digital video. You will discover how it is possible to provide simple access to authorized users (paying customers) and how to restrict access to unauthorized users.You will learn how DRM systems manage the storage of content, track the distribution of digital assets and ways DRM systems can take action to restrict and remove unauthorized materials.

Enabling DLNA Devices to Work With Non-DLNA Devices and Services

2011-02-08T07:05:00.000-08:00

How can you get most of the home media devices to discover and communicate with each other? Angela Scheller from Packet Video explained to me during the CES show that there are hundreds of types of connected devices that do not have DLNA (such as gaming consoles, computers that have UPnP). To enable these devices to work with DLNA devices, Packet Video has created TwonkyServer™. This intelligent server provides DLNA services, enhanced services, and can bridge non-DLNA devices to other DLNA and non-DLNA home media devices. The Twonky™ system uses the DLNA media management model that contains media servers (storage), control points (detection, navigation, and control), and renderers (conversion). Packet Video has designed the system to use a limited amount of resources (memory and processing power) which makes it usable in devices that have low power consumption requirements such as mobile telephones, tablet computers, and portable media players. It can be setup to contain a mixture of pre-defined navigation trees and customized indexes. The system also allows users to enter their own identification and classification tags which can improve the overall user experience.

Developing Embedded Android TV Set Top Box Products and Services

2011-02-07T04:57:00.000-08:00

Developing Android software that is capable of processing TV services can have some key challenges. Chris Moon from Innodigital explained that there is more to creating Android television solutions that getting a single device to display a television program. Some of the key objectives for companies developing TV based android devices include having an interesting and easy to use GUI, feature application programs (widgets), creating a system that is scalable for many customers, porting android applications to different types of hardware, and getting android applications to work on multiple types of systems (platform independent). To do this, it is helpful to have tools that can create advanced graphic user interfaces and widgets. It is also helpful to have experience in creating a porting layer that allows Android applications to run on different type of hardware and interface to systems. The availability of these tools and experience in porting Android applications can be very important when selecting an Andorid integration company.

Developing New Television Applications using Android Set Top Boxes

2011-02-04T08:11:00.000-08:00

Creating new applications for televisions can be done through the use of the Android operating system. Jeff Cody from Vidtonic explained to me at the CES show that the market potential for TV applications can be similar to the enormous multi-billion dollar market that has been created by mobile applications. Some Android applications for television will be very different than their mobile versions. TV applications can be rich media focused (lots of video content) and have user interfaces that are similar to television program guides. To simplify TV application development, Vidtonic has created an Android IPTV set top box kit HomeBrew developer kit. The kit provides equipment and reference materials that enable Android developers to quickly create new applications for television sets.

New Home Media Gateway Requirements for IPTV Over DSL – Allowing Carriers to Discover, Connect, and Configure Devices in the Home.

2011-02-03T04:36:00.000-08:00

Telephone companies can solve their bandwidth and home network challenges by using smarter home media gateways. David Thompson from Zyxel explained to me at TelcoTV that telephone companies need to provide rich media services (such as IPTV and OTT streaming video) to keep customers and their existing systems may not be enough to provide for the new types of devices in the digital home. DSL modems can be designed to function as home gateways providing the service provider with the ability to discover, connect, and configure devices within the home. VDSL2 modems are now capable of 100 Mbps downstream data rates and 45 Mbps upstream data rates. They can include quality of service (QoS) capability to better manage a mixture of voice, data, and video services. To control devices within the home, the gateway can use the TR 69 industry standard which defines how remote configuration, monitoring, and control can be performed. This capability can dramatically reduce the need to dispatch costly installers and technicians.

How to Setup and Run Internet TV Systems

2011-02-02T08:47:00.000-08:00

How to Setup and Run Internet TV Systems explains Internet TV Systems Technology and Services, Where to Obtain Program Content and Original Production Options, and Ways to Generate Revenue including Subscription Fees, Advertising Services, and Television Commerce (T-Commerce).

Almost any company or person can become a global television company. Internet TV Systems are similar to regular broadcast television systems except they send TV signals through the Internet. This book describes the type of equipment that is needed, the way it operates, and how to run the TV system.

In the first month that NetFlix offered the delivery of movies through the Internet to gaming consoles (one of several types of Internet TV viewing devices), approximately 1 million people signed up for service!

You will learn about the equipment and encoding options for getting your Internet TV System up and running. Discover simple Internet TV System hosting options that require no broadcasting equipment to get started. With some simple programs and/or cameras, you will be able to obtain, produce, and schedule television programs. You will learn that people can watch your Internet TV programs on a computer or standard TV using Internet TV set top boxes.

This book makes it easy for you to understand the technology and business aspects of Internet TV. You will learn the technology basics such as video encoding, media production, and program scheduling that will allow you to understand all the technical jargon and communicate with companies that can help you.

You will learn about the economics of television stations including advertising and television commerce (T-commerce). Find out how to identify interesting programs and the content licensing process. Discover how you can use high-value (more ad revenue) targeted advertising that works better than cable TV systems because it can be sent to specific locations and viewers. You’ll learn about operations and billing that you can use to sell subscription and advertising services.

To see more information about the book:

How to Setup and Run Internet TV Systems

Discover effective ways to promote television channels and programs. Samples of Internet TV Systems and Program promotional campaigns are also provided.

Enabling Viewers to Watch Movies on Multiple Types of Devices – Four Screen Viewing!

2011-02-02T04:38:00.000-08:00

Distributing movie content to multiple types of devices involves more than converting media files. Jerónimo Macanás Candilejo from Microgenesis Media (mgMedia) demonstrated to me how consumers can start watching media on one type of device (such as a television) and then continue to watch the movie on another type of device (such as a tablet computer). He explained that the consumer’s may watch content on four types of devices (screens); television, computer, mobile, or media player (such as a tablet). Multiple screen distribution systems must do more than convert (transcode) media formats. The distribution systems must simplify how the viewer interacts with their devices and how it can connect to media program sources. Consumers want instant viewing (no waiting), to use existing connections (no wires to connect), and automatically accesses content (no stored media disks or sticks).

Wearable Video Cam Device Simplifies Live TV and Video Blog Production

2011-02-01T04:51:00.000-08:00

Now a viewing audience can see exactly what a reporter sees. Kimberly Sauceda from Looxcie demonstrated to me at the CES digital experience event a wearable video cam device that connects to a smartphone via Bluetooth which can relay (retransmit) the live video and audio signal to a viewing audience. The Looxcie video cam comes with a bendable earloop that holds it so it points where you are looking. The Looxcie includes a stability feature that keeps the video level while you are streaming video. The smartphone (such as an Android or iPhone) application includes a viewfinder so you can see what your Looxcie is capturing. It includes an instant clip feature that allows you to replay the last 30 seconds of viewed content. This can be important if you had not initiated the Bluetooth connection and some amazing event happened. The Looxie weighs approximately 1 oz., has a battery life of 4 hours of continuous video cam, and can capture at 15 frames per second HVGA-quality video.

Android Tablet Computer with Television Viewing Capability

2011-01-31T09:37:00.000-08:00

Tablet computers need some key features to allow users to watch quality TV programs. Ester Koo demonstrated to me at the CES show how eLocity’s new Android tablets have been designed with some key features that allow for high quality television viewing. The tablet was designed for the upcoming version of Android 3.0 (Honeycomb) which enables tablets to access and process rich media (such as streaming movies in Flash media). Versions of the tablet can have up to 256 GBytes of memory allowing it to store many hours of video programming. It uses NVIDIA dual core Tegra 2 processor which allows the device to process video and other processes without slowing down. It also includes HDMI outputs up to 1080p allowing the device to be directly connected to high definition television viewing devices.

Creating Custom Media Players for Internet TV Systems

2011-01-31T04:41:00.000-08:00

Having a unique media player can be an important branding tool for Internet TV broadcasters. Natalia Psakhie from Elecard explained to me at the CES show that having access to a media player that can be customized can be critical to the success of IPTV and Internet TV broadcasters. This allows the operator to create a custom user interface with advanced features and services. To start the process, an operator should be able to start with a simple reference design to get a working media player. The reference design can then be enhanced to create unique branded versions of the media player. The media player development kit should include important capabilities such as multiple software based codec types (MPEG-2, MPEG-4), playback controls (trick mode), closed captioning, and full screen controls. Additional features should include the combination of streaming and local media support (such as ActiveX capabilities) and local storage (download for later playback).

Connecting TV STB to Television Display via Wireless HDMI

2011-01-28T05:11:00.000-08:00

Creating a wireless connection between the TV STB and the television display using HDMI is now possible. Eric Brookman from Alereon explained to me at the CES show that providing wireless HDMI connections is a significant challenge due to the extremely high bandwidth, control, and security issues required by HDMI connections. Another emerging challenge is the inclusion of 3DTV capability in the connection. The solution to this challenge is to use Ultra Wideband (UWB) wireless and some smart channel coding methods. Initially, users can add a wireless HDMI adapter. Over time, wireless HDMI connections can be included (embedded) directly into the STB and the television.

Simplifying Home and Business IP Video Surveillance Services

2011-01-27T05:38:00.000-08:00

Setting up video surveillance systems until now has been complicated and costly. David Rimmer from Intamac explained to me at the CES show that the benefits of using IP video surveillance systems simplifies and reduces the cost of surveillance systems and provides the ability to access video camera on a many types of devices such as multimedia computers, and mobile telephones. It also allows for video or images can be streamed and/or stored (recorded) via standard Internet connections. Smart video surveillance systems can monitor for changes in activity and provide messaging when events (triggers) occur and even send SMS messages to alert users or business owners of potential issues. IP video surveillance systems are relatively low cost compared to traditional closed circuit television systems (CCTV). Because they use standardized IP based communication, many people know how to setup and control the network connections and equipment. Some companies even provide Plug ‘n’ Play surveillance systems.

Hybrid Home Network Wi-Fi Extender Solves Wireless LAN Coverage Problems

2011-01-26T10:55:00.000-08:00

Getting consistent wireless coverage of Wi-Fi signals in a home can be difficult for consumers and poor coverage can also result in very low data transmission rates. Charles Maier from Atheros explained to me at the CES trade show that Wi-Fi and other home network systems can be combined to enable home and business users to get better Wi-Fi coverage and performance. This is becoming more important as there are new requirements to provide high capacity bandwidth for rich media services for Blu-ray players, set top boxes, and home media servers. To make this happen, Wi-Fi access points can use a smart interconnection system that can select and combine home network technologies such as Wi-Fi, Ethernet and Powerline data. One of the easiest ways to do this is for consumers to use Wi-Fi extender modules that can connect using HomePlug AV. The user simply plugs the extender into an outlet and push a pairing button that allows the HomePlug devices to identify and connect with each other. The pairing process allows for multiple systems to co-exist (such as in apartments). Another advantage of combining multiple networks and connection types, home network capacity can increase to over 500 Mbps.

Amazing 3DTV Without Glasses – Unlimited Viewing Angles

2011-01-24T13:54:00.000-08:00

3DTV systems without glasses can be dramatically different. Ester Koo demonstrated to me at the CES that eLocity’s 3DTV system (StreamTV) does not have any noticeable viewing angles. This can make people more comfortable when viewing 3D video (some people feel nauseous when viewing 3DTV with or without glasses). This was the best 3DTV viewing experience without glasses that I’ve had since they started appearing about 3 years ago. This video shows an example of the eLocity 3T 3DTV display:

Video Source: GeekBeat TV

Smart Switching for Home Networks – Selecting and Combining the Best Connection Types

2011-01-24T04:30:00.000-08:00

The amount of data that is being transferred throughout homes is dramatically increasing and home networks need to better manage connections to ensure users have a quality and reliable experiences. Juan Carlos Rivero from Broadcom explained to me during the CES trade show that there are multiple connection types available in the home; power, phone line, coax, and others. Home network systems should be able to identify and manage connection options and automatically transfer and combine connections so users have the best experiences. Having systems that can monitor and automatically transfer connections to the best possible transmission path means more reliable service, more coverage area in the home, and less challenges for the TV broadcaster.