TECHNICAL
long-term sustainability and relevance of the satellite-based content delivery ecosystem. Multiple distribution networks The overall non-terrestrial system architecture includes multiple space segment layers spanning from geostationary satellites (GEOs) to medium orbit (MEOs) and low orbit (LEOs) satellites, offering a comprehensive approach to satellite-based content delivery. Each layer contributes to the holistic IP/5G common approach and ensures sustainability: n Geostationary Satellites (GEOs): GEO satellites are optimal for broadcasting, multicasting and edgecasting applications providing wide coverage areas and they are ideal for reaching large audiences with broadcast content. GEO satellites are complemented by smart edges able to receive broadcast and multicast packets enhancing the efficient content delivery to mass audiences. n Medium Orbit Satellites (MEOs) and Low Orbit Satellites (LEOs): MEOs and LEOs are mainly used for broadband unicast connectivity with lower latency, essential for some connectivity applications. Some broadcast and multicast services could also be delivered using LEOs and MEOs, particularly in cases where the area served by those satellites can reach many users at the same time. IP/5G Common Layer Approach The integration of different physical layers into a holistic IP/5G common layer approach ensures complementarity and/ or seamless interoperability across the various satellite network elements. By standardising protocols and interfaces, Media companies can streamline content delivery and optimise resource use. This approach enables efficient use of satellite bandwidth and enhances the scalability and flexibility of the network to support evolving user demands. 5G Edgecasting, new products and related protocols Embracing 5G edgecasting for content delivery provides media organisations with greater flexibility and efficiency. At the same time, new content formats and interactive experiences leveraging 5G
offers the best balance between reach, reliability, and cost-effectiveness. By leveraging multiple distribution infrastructures media organisations can optimise audience reach, reliability and cost-effectiveness. A combination of a subset of those IP native infrastructures offers unique advantages and coverage, allowing media organisations to tailor their distribution approach based on a reliable and sustainable service to different audience demographics, geographic factors and content type. Disaster Readiness and Recovery Given the increasing frequency of extreme events, disaster readiness and recovery plans are essential. For example, Public Service Media (PSM) organisations, in coordination with governmental authorities, are preparing to invest in robust infrastructure and redundancy measures to ensure uninterrupted services during peak consumption, special events and emergencies. The resilience of the distribution strategy is critical, especially in the face of increasing frequency and severity of extreme events. By combining multiple infrastructures and implementing disaster readiness measures, such as redundant transmission paths and backup systems, PSM and other media organisations can minimise service disruptions and ensure continuity during emergencies. Sustainability The sustainability aspect of the strategy involves making informed decisions about which distribution infrastructures to prioritise on a per-country basis. This may involve assessing factors such as audience reach, cost-effectiveness, technological feasibility and environmental impact. By optimising resource allocation and investing in sustainable technologies, media organisations can minimise operational costs and environmental footprint while maximising long-term viability. The solution proposed in the frame of the 5G EMERGE project allows the use of a single IP native edgecasting overlay to serve several markets with a single transmission: from DTH edges to Nomadic edges, to network nodes, to collective housing, to vehicular and maritime reception. Additionally, investigating satellite direct-to-device services within the framework of future 5G and 6G networks demonstrates a forward-looking approach to technology integration, ensuring the
capabilities will be necessary to attract new audiences and create additional value. To attract new audiences, it is essential to conceive, develop and industrialise innovative technologies, not only at space segment level but mainly at the end user level. In the 5G EMERGE project, new fixed, nomadic and mobile self-pointing terminals based on innovative digital phased array technologies are being developed. Special attention is dedicated to minimising the costs of those terminals, starting from consumer terminals to be deployed in millions of units. The ability of each terminal to provide native IP services including interactivity is another key requirement that is combined with the need to be able to manage tens of millions of interactive broadcast terminals at a sustainable operational cost, focusing attention towards highly efficient and flexible protocols.
Conclusion
5G-EMERGE is a comprehensive, adaptable and future-oriented solution for global media distribution. A baseline offering is already possible with off- the-shelf solutions. Optimalisations will improve performance and quality of experience and integration with current and future workflows. The key value of the 5G EMERGE ecosystem is its ability to deliver diverse content seamlessly across various devices and networks in the constantly evolving landscape of media consumption and distribution. The 5G-EMERGE concepts and end- to-end ecosystem has already been demonstrated and the aim is to provide market-ready solutions in 2026, to augment 5G network deployments in that timeframe.
www.5G-EMERGE.com
SEPTEMBER 2024 Volume 46 No.3
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