FEED Winter 2024 Newsletter

5G has also sped up IP adoption – high-speed, low-latency streaming makes mobile and live broadcasting easier than ever. Broadcasters are also moving to software-defined workflows, replacing hardware with virtual applications that can scale dynamically to meet demand. Data and IP are increasing viewer engagement through personalised content and dynamic ad insertion based on real-time audience insights. Low-latency protocols like SRT and WebRTC mean near-instant streaming, perfect for live sports and interactive content. With DRM, encryption and watermarking, content security has also improved in IP broadcasting. The transition to IP doesn’t just optimise current workflows but also paves the way for the inclusion of future innovations like AI and VR, changing how we produce and deliver content. JOHN WASTCOAT: Live IP video-based cloud workflows offer broadcasters cost optimisation, scalability, reliability and enhanced interoperability. Broadcasters can achieve significant cost savings with lower upfront capital expenses, the flexibility to activate services as needed and the ability to deploy on economical public networks instead of costly satellite contracts. Cloud-based systems enhance scalability, allowing workflows to adapt as demand grows. Additionally, IP workflows promote interoperability by enabling seamless integration across various services and solution providers, giving broadcasters the freedom to choose best-in-class tools. Zixi’s Software-Defined Video Platform (SDVP) provides industry-first advancements like DPDK high-performance networking and lossless null packet compression, which helps reduce compute costs by 90% and egress bandwidth by 30-60%, lowering the total cost of ownership (TCO).

IP΄s rate of adoption has accelerated in recent times

DARREN GOSNEY: IP video in broadcast and streaming isn’t necessarily new, with many companies taking the leap into this technology over the last several years. However, its rate of adoption has accelerated significantly in recent times as many manufacturers (including ourselves) have added IP video products to their line-ups. We’re also aware of the cost implications of moving to IP video, especially for broadcasters working in Ultra HD. While the bandwidth for HD and even Ultra HD up to 30fps can be delivered via widely available 10G Ethernet connectivity, higher frame rates such as 50 and 60fps UltraHD would not be possible. There would be a need to move to far more expensive 25G connections. To address this, we have developed our own visually lossless, low-latency codec: Blackmagic IP10. ADAM VANN: The move from SDI to IP is altering broadcast and streaming for good – more flexibility, more scalability, more integration. SMPTE ST 2110 means IP can support complex multicamera productions, and remote production and cloud-based solutions are becoming more accessible and cost-effective.

WHAT OPPORTUNITIES DOES IP OFFER IN TERMS OF COST, SCALABILITY AND INTEROPERABILITY?

ADAM VANN: IP gives you big advantages in cost, scalability and interoperability. IP systems mean you don’t need high-cost, specialist hardware; software-driven solutions can be used instead. Centralised remote diagnostics cut maintenance costs, while virtualised resources reduce costs during low-demand periods.

IP infrastructure lets you scale up or down as needed; high-demand events can use more resources without physical upgrades and remote or cloud-based workflows allow scaling without extra facilities. For interoperability: IP standards like SMPTE ST 2110 let you connect multi-vendor equipment,

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