have switched to HD transmissions only and streaming in HD. On a low bandwidth ISP this can be a problematic whereas an IRS solution does not suffer from bandwidth restrictions at all. The DVB Project make a point of this regarding DVB-I. What is DVB-I DVB-I is an app driven platform. It is a software media router for any device that has access to a variety of input sources from ISP, or 5G (mobile) to Off-Air satellite or terrestrial. So, if your IPS network speed is insufficient a Smart TV DVB-I app should route to a better-quality source via a terrestrial input for example, but an IP only setup cannot access this path. The DVB Project themselves regarding DVB-I state: Q: ‘If I have DVB-I services available via a good broadband connection to my home, why would I connect a broadcast antenna?’ A: ‘There are still many reasons for users to connect their TV set to an antenna. For example, some services may only be available over broadcast for operational reasons or may be available in better or more appropriate quality via broadcast. DVB-I enables hybrid offerings combining both broadcast and broadband services.’ Access to IRS, DTH or terrestrial antenna connectivity is clearly an advantage for DVB-I when viewing on a TV. Crystal ball The future of content delivery will have to be a multi-path combination where IRS and DTH still has a vital role to play in providing the customer with the best quality HD, UHD 4K and beyond broadcast content alongside access to streaming platforms through their ISP.
uninterrupted services and this comes at a premium cost where available. A multi-path approach that includes IRS provides maximum flexibility. So, when tendering for a new IRS installation this can be pitched as: “The integrated reception system (IRS) will deliver access to a guaranteed bandwidth of digital satellite and terrestrial broadcast services. The tenants or property owners will be able to connect a wide variety of set top boxes and televisions for the uninterrupted reception of digital satellite and terrestrial broadcast services.” Could a streaming platform confidently say the same? At this point in time no, because the ISP and their available bandwidth determines the level of service and quality. At low bandwidth, downscaling to sustain the service results in a poor viewing experience is even more noticeable on large screen televisions.
Latency issues ISP latency can also detract from the viewing experience when it comes to live events and sport, as the processing delays associated with streaming can be considerable. This makes joint viewing experiences less enjoyable. Other benefits of IRS IRS is beneficial in freeing up bandwidth that would otherwise be used for streaming broadcast television. Another thing we must consider is that many national broadcasters
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CAI Feedback Spring 2024
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