IP Datacasting

Adapting the Standard

IP Datacasting is a broadcast technology that allows for efficient and cost effective distribution of digital content to mass audiences over IP.

Using IP protocol on top of DVB-H means the system can easily adapt to future services with little if any changes to the standards framework

Internet Protocol (IP) is the format used for distributing digital content on the Internet. With IP, all content is delivered in the form of IP data packets. By combining IP with DVB-H (Digital Video Broadcast - Handheld), mobile TV takes broadcasting to a new level. Mobile phone users can access music, Web pages, and games, as well as television and radio.

Through the use of IP protocol on top of the DVB-H transmission, the system can easily adapt to new services in the future with little if any changes needed in the standards framework. Already, a service can consist of several video (such as viewing angles) and audio streams (such as multiple audio tracks) as well as a data stream for interactive content files.

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In order to enable a longer battery lifetime for a mobile device, content is received in high-speed bursts. Between bursts the receiver shuts down to save power. This "time-slicing" technology is supported by DVB-H.

Yet another difference is that IP datacasting networks support indoor coverage for devices with small, in-built antennas, rather than those using rooftop or other external antennas. The indoor coverage in networks for mobile TV is very important, as the usage of the service will be very similar to the usage of cellular services inside buildings and moving vehicles.

Related Information

Documents

DVB-H: Digital Broadcast Services to Handheld Devices
(PDF file, 1.2 MB) February 2006

System Comparison: T-DMB vs. DVB-H
(PDF file, 3.4 MB) February 2006

DVB-H Live Broadcast Mobile TV: Delivering the TV experience to mobile devices
(PDF file, 619 KB) April 2006

White paper: IP Datacast Terminals: Description of Implementation Principles
(PDF file, 1.4 MB) March 2004

DVB-H Live Broadcast Mobile TV: Delivering the TV experience to mobile devices
(PDF file, 713 KB) July 2006

Article: DigiTAG Handbook
(PDF file, 0.5 MB) March 2005

Article: DVB-Scene: TV in Hand
( PDF file, 1.4 MB) March 2005

Article: DVB-H Trial to commerce early 2005 in Australia 26 October
(PDF file, 0.1 MB) October 2004

Links

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