Having spent much time and energy exploring AES67 (see our recent 3-part series, “Your practical guide to AES67, Parts 1-3”), we’d now like to turn our attention to AES70 – what is it, how does it relate to AES67 and why do we need it?
In this series of articles, we will explain broadcasting for IT engineers. Television is an illusion, there are no moving pictures and todays broadcast formats are heavily dependent on the decisions engineers made in the 1930’s and 1940’s. Understanding broadcast video and audio is a lesson in history and backwards compatibility, and to a certain extent, the two are inextricably entwined.
Away from traditional broadcasting a revolution is happening. Live internet streaming is taking the world by storm with unprecedented viewing figures and improved accessibility for brands looking to reach better targeted audiences. The Live Explosion, hosted by the DPP in London and enabled by Dropbox, presented three live streaming experts to share their experience of this new phenomenon.
Migration towards ST 2110 and ST 2022-6 video networks for production and content delivery is picking up pace as the advantages of IP versus traditional SDI over coaxial cable carriage become more evident. The key drivers of IP include the introduction of more flexible and scalable business models based on virtualization and cloud technologies, along with the economies of scale and speed of technology development that stem from the use of commercial off-the-shelf (COTS) IT equipment.
As higher resolutions become the “norm” in television production and broadcasting, improvements in coaxial cables and associated connectors to enhance performance in the 12G operating range provides a more practical solution for 4K transport.
4K imagery has become the quality standard for many broadcast applications. A key requirement is that the transmission links be of sufficient bandwidth. Links using H.264 can be overwhelmed by the much higher bandwidth requirements of 4K video. HEVC is often the better solution. How does it work and what are some benefits?
Last year, more than 400 original series hit the small screen. With no signs of slowing; predictions suggest 2017 could beat records, with over 500 programmes launched. It’s now possible for companies to make video easily accessible online and with the widespread adoption of Video on Demand (VOD) the content floodgates have opened like never before.
_460_307_70.jpg "Software updates, patches and refreshes should be easy and safe. Often they are not.")
Broadcasters have historically not had to endure regular large-scale technology transitions. Sure, the industry moved from B/W to color, analog to digital, and SD to HD. But the upcoming move from the familiar and comfortable SDI technology to an IP-centric facility has many technical managers apprehensive. It is time to be calm and carry on.
