What is IP television?
Internet Protocol Television (IPTV) is digital
television delivered on your television (and not PC)
through high speed internet (broadband) connection.
In this service, channels are encoded in IP format and
delivered to the TV through a set top box. IPTV
service also includes video on demand, which is
similar to watching video CDs/DVDs using a VCD/DVD
player.
How does it work?
IPTV converts a television signal into small packets
of computer data like any other form of online traffic
such as email or a web page. There are three
main components of IPTV. First, the TV and content
head end, where the TV channels are received and
encoded and also other content like videos which are
stored. The second component is the delivery network,
which is broadband and landline network provided by a
telecom operators such as MTNL.
The third component is the set top box, which is
required at the customer location. The packets are
reassembled into programming by software in the
set-top
box. This box is connected between the operators
broadband modem and customers TV.
What are the advantages of IPTV?
The quality of digital video and audio is much better
compared with the traditional analogue TV. With
additional features, it can become interactive. For
example, viewers may be able to look up a players
history while watching a game. They also may be able
to schedule a recording of their favourite programme
when they are not home. With video on demand, they can
browse an online movie catalogue and watch the movies
instantly.
Because IPTV uses standard networking protocols, it
promises lower costs for operators and lower prices
for users. Using set-top boxes with broadband internet
connections, video can be streamed to households more
efficiently than cable.
What are the limitations of IPTV?
Because IPTV is based on internet protocol, it is
sensitive to packet loss and delays if the IPTV
connection is not fast enough.
When was IPTV service first used?
In 1994, ABCs World News Now was the first television
show to be broadcast over the internet, using the
CU-SeeMe video conferencing software. Internet
radio company AudioNet started the first continuous
live webcast in January, 1998.
When was IPTV rolled out in India?
Public sector operator Mahanagar Telephone Nigam
(MTNL) is the first and only telco in India providing
IPTV services. It rolled out IPTV early this month
in Mumbai and Delhi. The original 26 channels it
launched were free-to-air, while the new lineup
includes premium subscription channels. It has not yet
announced tariff plans, which will vary depending on
the number of channels a user subscribes to and the
use of premium services.
Who are the other telcos planning IPTV services?
Bharti Airtel is readying for launch while Reliance
Communications has also been undertaking trials for
IPTV for over a year now. BSNL is expected to roll
it out by January next year. Since IPTV is delivered
through landline connection, telcos like Hutchison
Essar and Idea Cellular will not be able to offer
the service right now as they do not have fixed line networks.
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