10639_DVB_SCENE_01.qxd 2.4.2002 12:49 Page 1

Edition No. 01 April 2002 Tune in to Digital Convergence

MHP out of the box

01

The Standard for the Digital World

This issue’s highlights > Commissioner Liikanen addresses MHP implementation > MHP Progress Report > MHP in the USA > MHP launches > Behind the wheel with MHP > DVB-T tests in South Korea 10639_DVB_SCENE_01.qxd 2.4.2002 12:49 Page 2

SUPPORT FOR MHP IMPLEMENTATION

and Information Society. Erkki Liikanen, European Commissioner for Enterprise At a political level, the Commission has undertaken to support MHP implementation. MHP will be included in the official list of standards to be published shortly. Member States have to encourage implementation of listed standards. In 2003, the Commission will publish a review on how far interoperability and freedom of choice for EU citizens have been adequately achieved. DVB-SCENE : 01 Now industry must follow through by collaborating on MHP implementation across all Member States. This is essential in order to achieve critical mass. Manufacturers need the Single Market in order to achieve critical mass across the EU. The process has already started. Several national MHP is a tremendous opportunity to Society, one of the objectives of the MOUs are in place within Europe. facilitate the passage from today’s e-Europe Action Plan. I therefore I also support the initiative of the vertical markets, using proprietary support voluntary migration MHP Action Group to develop an technologies, towards horizontal towards MHP. industry MOU at European level. markets based on open standards. The European Union’s new legislative DVB members come from all over the This will benefit consumers and framework for communications was world now. I urge you all to support market players. Interoperability and agreed on December 12th 2001. MHP implementation in all possible standardisation will help Europe to Whether to mandate MHP or not – in ways across the world. Global take up achieve a socially inclusive Information support of interoperability – was a key of MHP can contribute to achieving issue. The new framework does not critical mass and making MHP the impose MHP; but the European natural choice for broadcasters and Parliament will follow MHP’s future platform operators everywhere. progress closely. I welcome the challenge of supporting MHP implementation and count on the DVB’s support.

The views expressed in this newsletter Published by DVB Project Office, All rights reserved. No part of this publication are those of the individual DVB members c/o European Broadcasting Union, may be reproduced without the prior consent 17a Ancienne Route, of the publisher. All content correct at time of or guests and are not necessarily the CH-1218 Grand Saconnex, Switzerland. print. © DVB-SCENE 2002. DVB, the DVB views of the DVB Project Office or http://www.dvb.org logo, mhp and the mhp logo are trademarks of DVB. Certain other product names, brand Steering Board. News Editor - William Daly Features Editor - Harold Bergin names and company names may be trademarks or designations of their Editorial and Advertising enquiries to: respective owners. WHD, PO Box 3035, Westminster, London SW1P 3BH, UK. Designed by GyroGroup, Geneva, E-mail: [email protected] www.gyrogroup.com Tel: +44 (0)20 7799 3100 Printed by Jenson Press Limited. Fax: +44 (0)20 7976 0922 10639_DVB_SCENE_01.qxd 2.4.2002 12:49 Page 3

After MHP version 1.0.1, comments Jon Piesing, Vice-Chair DVB “Technical Aspects of the MHP” on the MHP specification continued and Senior Project Leader, Philips Electronics gives an update to arrive. Between April 2001 and February 2002, the DVB project continued its process of comment MHP review as part of a process leading to PROGRESS the second maintenance update of MHP 1.0. The final text of this update, known as version 1.0.2, includes REPORT solutions to around 500 comments. As with MHP version 1.0.1, one of the largest sources of comments was Since the completion of version 1.0 of were rejected for various reasons Unisoft working under contract to the the MHP specification (also known as including for being duplicates of MHP Test Consortium when they ETSI TS 101 812 V1.1.1) in January others. The single largest source of reviewed their earlier work with MHP 2000, a process has been in place comments was the exhaustive review version 1.0 and updated it to fit with within the DVB project to deal with of the MHP specification performed version 1.0.1. MHP 1.0.2 is for all comments on that document. by Unisoft under contract to the MHP practical purposes backward The main sources of these comments Test Consortium as one of the first compatible to version 1.0.1. have so far been implementers of steps towards developing MHP receivers and receiver conformance tests for MHP receivers. conformance tests. Some examples of Version 1.0.1 of the MHP specification

the type of comment received include: was approved in the DVB project in DVB-SCENE : 02 spelling or grammar mistakes; March and April 2001. It was requests to improve the clarity of the published by ETSI some time Whilst there are changes which are specification; ambiguities in the later in 2001. not backwards compatible, these are specification, i.e. where several Version 1.1 of the MHP specification all found in small detailed areas of the implementation choices exist which was approved in the DVB project in specification which are sufficiently are incompatible from the point of June 2001. It includes the full text of impacted by issues and problems that view of an application or network; MHP version 1.0.1 as well as a reasonable applications cannot use conflicts between two parts of the number of extensions, both the affected areas. specification; and features in the mandatory and optional. Mandatory specification which cannot reasonably In conclusion, version 1.0 of the MHP extensions mostly relate to extra be implemented or cannot be specification continues to grow in mechanisms for downloading and made to work. maturity and quality. One very signalling of MHP applications, encouraging piece of evidence to Between January April 2000 and particularly for markets where there support this is that during 2001 and March 2001, a large number of is very little bandwidth available for early 2002, several new MHP 1.0 comments on the MHP specification MHP. Optional extensions include receiver software implementations were received and reviewed as part DVB-HTML and the MHP Internet have appeared from companies who of a process leading to the first access profile. At the moment, were not involved in writing the MHP maintenance update of MHP 1.0. MHP version 1.1 is taking very much specification. These are showing high The final text of this update, known as a “back seat” compared to MHP levels of inter-operability even before MHP version 1.0.1 (ETSI TS 101 812 version 1.0 and very few comments any MHP receiver conformance tests V1.1.2) includes solutions to 1500 have been received concerning the are approved. comments. Another 628 comments MHP 1.1 specification.

ADDING VALUE TO ENTERTAINMENT CANAL+ TECHNOLOGIES goes CE delivers an open middleware tool for components for creating a DVB-MHP beyond the basics of the DVB-MHP developing added value interactive compliant solution. standard offering two Java-based DVB- television (iTV) applications specifically MHP MEDIAHIGHWAY middleware for the consumer electronics users. products, each tailored to a specific Both MEDIAHIGHWAY solutions feature audience. For television operators, the Studio+ authoring tool for easy MEDIAHIGHWAY provides a full DVB- creation of highly interactive, MHP end-to-end interactive platform customisable and scalable iTV with associated professional services, applications at minimal cost. As an including system integration and onsite end-to-end solution, MEDIAHIGHWAY validation. For consumer electronics includes all necessary head-end (CE) manufacturers, MEDIAHIGHWAY- registering the different shares. It is shares. the different registering for the even possible to register signs of the horoscope, different (international, kinds of news different national or local), favourite sports or checking on the weather every you can gather all morning. Moreover, the information you wish to have each your own time you switch on the TV: the latest value of your horoscope, at your door and the weather shares, your local news. critical mass. DVB believes that critical mass. API has great MHP as a common content for manufacturers, advantages alike. developers and consumers up offers The move by CableLabs content an enormous market for to author MHP compatible providers OpenCable applications for DVB and once, read boxes, bringing the write the aspect of DVB-MHP to anywhere of content provision.” forefront followed by a That announcement was in the industry newsletter Inside report Technologies Digital TV that Canal+ that the MediaHighway had revealed technology it is selling to Echostar was to be MHP compliant. provider DVB-S Echostar is the largest in the US with six satellites in orbit that give the company a footprint to cover all US households and over a 5 million customer base. Racine, In the article Jean-Marc Marketing President, Executive Vice for the technology division of Canal+ to Barry Flynn of Inside revealed Digital TV “MHP is becoming a and went on to worldwide standard” news for us to be able great say “it’s but I to EchoStar, MHP to provide equally important, if not think it’s important to the content more industry in general.” These two announcements push MHP one step closer to becoming the global, defacto open standard, common API for interactive TV. Quite an accomplishment! IN THE ALPS “MHP is becoming a worldwide standard” components of their dynamic which can feature personalised banner, news and other information using presentation. ticker-style their Indeed, the viewers can create for each stored are that own profiles as use. It is also possible to create by each home as desired many profiles enables the A personalised profile user. user(s) to access the information they want. For instance, the viewer may follow a particular wish to regularly portfolio. stock or even an entire This new application will do it simply by HIGH UP digital applications. Over 85 per cent household cable of North America’s could potentially benefit from MHP-based interactive services. Don Commenting on the agreement, of President Dulchinos, Vice CableLabs’ Advanced Platforms & pleased are “We Services, remarked: to be working with DVB. The OCAP specification has been based on MHP the start, but we now have an from the and plan to coordinate agreement and future details of the current development, implementation and testing of the product.” Executive Director Peter MacAvock, stated: Office, of the DVB Project “CableLabs decision to adopt MHP is yet another milestone for the specification, which has been reaching httv, a service and technology provider httv, for interactive digital TV based in Alps, and CANAL+ the French TECHNOLOGIES have developed an MHP interactive TV ticker tape application on a DVB-MHP compliant version of the MEDIAHIGHWAY platform. This ticker tape application all the allows the viewer to profile MHP IN THE USA Recent announcements from DVB Recent announcements from members Canal+ and CableLabs add success of MHP as an to the growing for interactive TV for open standard both the cable and satellite sectors. The first of such announcements came separately in November by both the DVB and CableLabs, the technology consortium for cable systems operators in North and South carried releases America. Both press the news that cable operators in North that MHP is to America had agreed of the OpenCable become the core Application Platform (OCAP). OCAP is specification of the the software which solves the OpenCable project, operating of proprietary problem a by creating system software common platform upon which interactive services may be deployed. The OpenCable set-top box will allow the cable household to access both and interactive digital broadcasting

DVB-SCENE : 03 10639_DVB_SCENE_01.qxd 2.4.2002 12:49 Page 4 Page 12:49 2.4.2002 10639_DVB_SCENE_01.qxd DVB-SCENE : 04 at the conditional access level, at the interoperable be they won’t interactive TV level, either. This means that when MHP eventually becomes a globally adopted standard it will, in one form or (which I am sure ask me although please don’t another, to name a date), the benefit will not be consumer but to the to the directly whose costs will be content provider, to not having through lowered interactive TV applications re-author each and every scratch for from platform. Of course, consumers since as a should benefit indirectly, they should be exposed to a result variety of innovative interactive greater applications than they would otherwise have been. But something tells me no pay-TV operator is going to pass on the savings to its still subscribers – who will probably have to buy a new box if they want to programming access someone else’s or interactive services. And if that give you a sense of déjà-vu, doesn’t what does? Barry Flynn is editor of Inside Digital TV, and has recently launched his own interactive digital and has recently Barry Flynn is editor of Inside Digital TV, Barry Flynn Associates. Contact: [email protected] TV consultancy, existed (Canalsatellite, TPS and Absat). This would have incentivised each platform to make itself attractive to its rivals’ consumer base (since a these consumers would represent much lower subscriber acquisition cost). This in turn would have meant to use a single agreeing the three interactive TV system, since such to swap if consumers would not agree that meant losing access to interactive if put it another way, TV services. To the common interface had been mandated, MHP might well not have been needed. that the common here I’m not arguing that matter) for interface (or MHP, should have been mandated. taught The ill-fated ‘Mac’ Directive everyone (well, almost everyone) that technology solutions such as these by the market, have to be regulated But the fact that the not bureaucrats. mandated common interface wasn’t all those years ago not only called MHP into being, but also remains, side. Even if a thorn in MHP’s today, if two rival platforms both adopt MHP, not interoperable those platforms are been had “...consummers should benefit indirectly, since as a result they should since as a result “...consummers should benefit indirectly, be exposed to a greater variety of innovative interactive applications...” variety of innovative be exposed to a greater In My Opinion - Barry Flynn In My Opinion I have a sense of déjà-vu about MHP. No jokes, please, along the lines of – I’m presque-vu?’ you mean ‘don’t to the lack of test-suites, not referring has progress but the way MHP’s that of the almost exactly mirrored back DVB common interface standard in the early 90s. intriguing: both The parallels are to promote intended were standards between rival pay-TV interoperability Both standards offerings. operator’s caused a deep rift in the DVB membership (which was eventually of accused over). Both were papered being too expensive and/or complex dismissed as to implement. Both were ready not being commercially with existing proprietary (compared solutions), and both gave rise to a debate about whether political fierce they should be legally mandated at (an issue which ended level European up, in both cases, being fudged by the Commission). Since so- European called CAM modules have now carved out quite a market niche for be themselves, perhaps we shouldn’t prospects! that worried about MHP’s As it happens, these two standards closely linked – and will continue are to be so. Consider for a moment, what would have happened if the common interface standard mandated. In France, it would have meant that any digital satellite box would in principle have been able to of any of the the programming receive digital platforms that then three A SENSE OF A SENSE DÉJÀ-VU 10639_DVB_SCENE_01.qxd 2.4.2002 12:49 Page 5 Page 12:49 2.4.2002 10639_DVB_SCENE_01.qxd 10639_DVB_SCENE_01.qxd 2.4.2002 12:49 Page 6

CHANNEL ZAPPING SATISFACTION A supplier of digital set-top boxes been ported on STMicroelectronics’ To meet these basic but demanding and software solutions for digital OMEGA family of single chip requirements, ADB developed a set of interactive television, Advanced Digital MPEG2 processors. resident applications compatible with Broadcast (ADB), has developed an ADB has also available a set of the MHP standard. These include optimised open standard solution tools that allows applications to Installation Menu, Zapper, Channel based on the MHP specification. be designed, developed, and Navigation and Multilanguage The platform, compliant with DVB implemented in a simulated Programme Menu. Additionally, MHP 1.0.1 ETSI TS 101 812 Enhanced end-to-end scenario, resulting in a a set of interactive applications and Interactive broadcast profiles, higher performance efficiency and is also available to ADB’s customers, offers ADB’s customers the advantage lower system cost as the software to enable provision of value-added of having MHP applications integrated code is considerably optimised. services such as E@syMail, efficiently in its set-top boxes. T-Commerce and Information Based on its proprietary toolset, The platform has been designed to Services. ADB can upgrade these ADB offers highly efficient solutions interface with applications created on downloadable applications over for tasks such as channel zapping third party MHP compatible software time, according to the requirements and booting time, where system development kits. ADB’s solution has of its clients. responsiveness is a key requirement been implemented as a platform for viewer satisfaction. independent layer and has already DVB-SCENE : 05

SUBLIME SOLUTIONS FOR DIGITAL TELEVISION AND DIGITAL CINEMA The people at Sublime Software are and unconventional events at the local approach to DVB services and is the firm believers that interactive services cinema, and consider them self protocol of choice for future DVB within digital television programmes evident, inseparable parts of the broadcasts. Therefore, it is an and, eventually, alongside digital entertainment industry. integral part of its current and cinema screenings will inevitably Sublime Software specialises in future product developments. change the way people experience developing mastering and Sublime Software’s portfolio of what they see. Gradually, the general management solutions for video packaged products consists of various audience will embrace enhanced TV streaming content. It develops and content mastering and management manufactures application tools for digital television, and development tools for digital television basically covers creating, managing and digital cinema. In this role, it and distributing all the value-added, works closely together with the interactive content available in digital world’s leading players in the digital broadcasts. The Sublime iTV Suite is moving image business. an easy-to-use content authoring It is fortunate enough to benefit from system, complete with expansions for Finland’s unique position in the various purposes. The system offers technological forefront of certain television networks and production industries. With Finland the first companies convenient tools to country in the world to adopt the MHP create their own interactive content standard as the basis for interactive for TV shows. terrestrial digital television broadcasts, Although the advent of digital cinema and the nation’s unrivalled stance in is still sometime away, Sublime the world of mobile technology, these Software feels it is poised to play a are tremendous assets in terms of major role in the digitalisation of the viable, user-friendly feedback world’s cinema complexes. channels used with all kinds of The company’s theatre and content interactive applications in digital management interface and network television and cinema. Sublime database solution augments the Software is committed to software backbone of digital The Sublime iTV Suite is a versatile, implementing MHP in all its current easy-to-use tool used to edit, design and cinema projectors. finalise additional, interactive applications software systems. The company for television shows. believes MHP is a truly horizontal 10639_DVB_SCENE_01.qxd 2.4.2002 12:49 Page 7

FINLAND member, Sofia Digital, supplied super teletext services and the national GOES LIVE electronic programme guide. In fact, all Finnish DTV channels including the WITH DVB-MHP country’s most popular TV channel, Finland became the first country in MTV3, have been supplied with the world to broadcast live on-air teletext systems from Sofia Digital. interactive services using the Sofia ARENA was used to create DVB-MHP standard when the country these services. launched its new digital terrestrial In looking at the various standards, applications in the world. Based on television services. Eight new digital MHP was the natural choice for YLE. our experiences as leading application channels were added to the four Kari Risberg, Project Manager, Digital developers, we believe in DVB-MHP,” existing channels giving Finnish TV at YLE explains, “MHP is the only commented Mika Kanerva, Chief viewers a total of twelve channels standard approved by DVB. Also, it’s Technology Officer at Sofia Digital. from which to choose. the only open API that opens up “We have integrated our content At the launch ceremony held at YLE interactive and Internet services. management system with Sony’s headquarters in Helsinki, the new It produces an open, level market MediaCaster system and used it in an channels were opened by Mr Heikki where anyone can develop and end-to-end content delivery system in Lehmusto, Head of Television YLE, market applications and receivers.” the Finnish DTT network.” representing the digital television In selecting its technology partner, MediaManager can simultaneously operators. In his speech, he said that YLE was attracted to Sony. “Sony’s support numerous networked content he is pleased with the choice of the MHP platform and that Finland’s DVB-SCENE : 06

“It produces an open, level market where anyone can develop and market applications and receivers.”

solution had attracted broad international interest. He went on to say that television must be able to keep up with what is happening in the world of telecommunications at large and that the age of closed systems in television production is past. Also at the event, Finland’s Minister of Transport and Communications L-R: Mikko Räisänen (Alma Media), Heikki Lehmusto (YLE) and Tapio Kallioja (SWelcom) Olli-Pekka Heinonen expressed his at Finnish launch faith in the future of digital television and regards the choice of the MHP technology is an important part of providers, taking their production standard as a wise decision. He our MHP platform,” commented environment from a closed added that it would provide Finnish Risberg. “The company has a good environment, based on proprietary IT companies with a head start reputation in this field and its technology, to an open standards- for developing new services technology is advanced.” based environment. “DVB-MHP and business. represents the best opportunity we’ve The added value of an interactive TV Finnish broadcasters and network seen for a truly open, inter-operable system based on DVB-MHP is the operators selected the Sony Open standard for interactive television,” level playing field that this standard said Allan Arthurs, General Manager, creates – one in which telecoms DataCast Europe at Sony Broadcast operators, application developers and & Professional Europe. “We are broadcasters work collectively with no delighted to have been part of this technical barriers to system entry. Finnish world’s first. The endorsement “We are proud of being able to provide by companies such as YLE, Digita, the first real on-air DVB-MHP Sonera and Sofia Digital has been a source of much encouragement to all involved.” DataCast Platform as the backbone for the delivery of their MHP based interactive services. Another DVB 10639_DVB_SCENE_01.qxd 2.4.2002 12:49 Page 8

BUDDING COMPANIONS Partnering to develop and market application solutions

Broadcasting stands on the verge of one of the most exciting eras in its history. In the space of just a few short years, the growth of cable, satellite and terrestrial television has transformed the way we watch TV. Exciting new interactive digital television services, some through the box that provides a reference commercial advantages to Internet, have become available, with environment to create, test, debug both parties. and validate MHP applications and the many in the course of development – On the technical side, CompanionTV opportunity to run those applications services like home shopping, home partners can work together to develop within the physical constraints of a banking, super teletext, electronic joint solutions that ensure real world MHP receiver. Philips’ programme guides, information interoperability between the partners’ developer tools for MHP form the channels, gaming, chatting, voting and applications, services and solutions basis for an easy migration path to e-mail. Philips is addressing the and Philips MHP middleware wide implementation of the DVB-MHP requirements arising from these new implementation. Partners also get standard, ensuring that broadcasters, services with its programme known as insider knowledge to ensure service providers and network CompanionTV. It is aimed at continuous compliance with the operators can take full advantage of application developers and interactive very latest versions and extensions digital TV. digital television OEMs and, ultimately, of the software. DVB-SCENE : 07 users among broadcasters, network The CompanionTV partnership Partners in the CompanionTV operators and service providers. programme has been set up to programme can also take advantage establish partnerships with companies Softworks, a business within Philips of a number of combined marketing to develop the market and application Digital Networks offers a suite of MHP initiatives. These comprise joint solutions for MHP platforms and offer software development and reference demonstrations of applications and these to potential customers. Such tools. The company’s MHP Software services on top of Philips’ middleware partnerships offer both technical and Development Kit provides creators of platforms, marketing communications new and exciting applications with the material, training, and participation products and support needed to at trade shows, workshops and explore the full potential of MHP other events. The commercial middleware, applications and services. relationship can be extended to Included is an MHP reference set-top include other business developments or distributorship.

ON A CAROUSEL

David Cutts of S&T describes how to make a simple stepwise investment in transmission systems for MHP and make applications work well along the way.

MHP uses a delivery technology 2000. It now provides a range of selected files, support of called DSM-CC Object Carousel (OC) carousel generation solutions for the Stream Events and the MHP to deliver applications and key data MHP industry. Each solution provides Application Signalling. a complete transport stream, including to applications. This enables the The company’s SoftOC package is signalling, for use in direct presentation of a complete designed to provide tools for transmission to a receiver or for ‘broadcast file-system’, including development and test for receiver re-multiplexing. The solutions are built directories, to the receiver via the designers and manufacturers. There around carousel encoding technology broadcast transmission. are also two packages for application so that the application author has S&T has been developing applications developers. The core workstation is close control over the disposition of for interactive TV using this called TSDeveloper. This is presented files in the carousel, and their relative technology since it was first used in on a low cost Sun workstation with priority of transmission. The system the UK and its software has been DVB-ASI output and is typically used also provides for rapidly updating providing 24x7 service since early 10639_DVB_SCENE_01.qxd 2.4.2002 12:49 Page 9

NETWORK TEN LAUNCHES AUSTRALIA’S FIRST MHP SERVICE

Australia’s commercial free-to-air carrousel rate and set-top box “The Thales equipment will form the terrestrial broadcaster Network Ten is memory use of its system. Coral’s GUI basis of the Networks next phase of the first to support the MHP standard gives easy access to all parameters interactive development by giving us in the Australian market with the and statistics and enables the user to: the ability to implement a sustainable development and transmission of update, add, suppress objects in transmission system,” said Network MHP applications. A key element of carousels or application in AITs in real Ten’s network technology developing MHP applications, to time; send stream events in real time; development manager, Stephen Rubie. showcase the technology to Network and set and monitor rates or cycle Ten’s viewers, was to have a head-end times for each DSM-CC message. infrastructure that allowed applications The Coral platform enables real time CORE VALUE to be optimised for transmission. broadcasting of interactive data files SkyLife, the Korean satellite within MPEG-2 DVB transport broadcaster, is deploying NDS Core streams. It is compatible with any DVB in its entry-level set-top box and is compliant network including satellite, planning to implement the Alticast cable or terrestrial. MHP solution with NDS Videoguard The initial system will be used by conditional access. Network Ten, primarily for test Supporting MHP is a priority for NDS transmissions and the ongoing DVB member Thales’ commitment to to ensure that operators continue to optimisation of interactive services, MHP proved to be an asset when have choice in their technology such as, for its music video being chosen by Network Ten for its selections. As part of its overall programme ‘Video Hits’. transmission of MHP interactive solution, the company supplies the DVB-SCENE : 08 The application runs in conjunction services. The company’s Coral iTV feature rich set-top box software - with the video clips, allowing viewers Broadcasting Server was selected as NDS Core. This middleware, currently to access additional information about it allows the broadcaster to develop, used in over 2 million set-top boxes, the artists and their albums. It also manage, and deliver “higher-value” is capable of running complex allows the broadcaster to schedule broadcast content by performing real Java-based applications, therefore transmissions of these applications time multiplexing of heterogeneous facilitating the future adoption of MHP. on a regular basis. data from multiple sources, including By initially deploying interactive transport stream packet files, section Digital receivers incorporating MHP applications based on NDS Core, files and associated audio files. will be available for consumers in the operator has a natural and easy Australia in the first half of 2002. migration path to MHP. A Coral MHP Broadcasting Server is In addition to Video Hits, Network Ten employed to create and manage the plans to have a number of other MHP carrousels. Thales claims to interactive services operating have paid particular attention to the by that time.

with a suitable modulator or direct In order to transfer applications automation) and other software that interface to deliver a transport stream developed in this way to an ‘on-air’ can be integrated in a reliable package to a ‘farm’ of MHP receivers. trial of MHP, a low cost version of its depending on the precise needs of the transmission playout ‘TSPlayer’ for broadcaster and applications. TSDeveloper can be used in a integration in trials is provided. multi-developer set-up where each S&T believes that this range of This unit plays out to air to a developer has control of his ‘service’ products offers each part of the MHP remultiplexer, again through ASI, in the transmission. TSDeveloper is community a solution to the issues streams created using TSDeveloper. also part of a second package called concerning delivery of applications ‘MHPExpress’ which contains, in Finally, for a full broadcast system and content, and enables easy addition, Sun’s Forte development which is integrated with broadcast transition from authoring to ‘on-air’ for environment and the ‘Gear’ package playout, automated data-sources, content production and transmission. from Snap2 Corporation. This has dynamic database query and rapid many useful tools for creating update, the full suite of broadcast MHP X-lets and eases implementation software includes TSPlayer, using the HAVI part of the TSScheduler (which includes MHP specification. interfaces to existing broadcast 10639_DVB_SCENE_01.qxd 2.4.2002 12:49 Page 10

ACHIEVING A MILESTONE FOR IP COMMUNICATION

A Broadband Interactive (BBI) Network premises via standard low cost this new technology allows SES Management System for the world’s Satellite Interactive Terminals. Users ASTRA to serve the growing markets first Ka-Band system, based on the can contribute data and media-rich for high speed web access, DVB-RCS standard has been content at transmit rates of up to 2 high quality IP video streaming designed and implemented by ND Sat Mbit/s via ASTRA 1H to the BBI hub in and interactive video conferencing, Com. The BBI system, based on the Luxembourg via satellite. The BBI as well as all standard IP-based new international open standard system is capable of delivering up to needs such as file transfers, DVB-RCS (Return Channel over 38 Mbit/s of IP data or content to e-mail, database management and Satellite), will enable end-users to Satellite Interactive Terminals. broadband Internet access in have two-way broadband data Ideally suited for high performance Western and Central Europe. communication from their own broadband interactive IP applications,

DESIGNS ON MHP

Bang & Olufsen, renowned for its technological excellence and innovative product design, is the first external company to license Philips’

DVB-SCENE : 09 DVB-MHP technology and deploy it in a satellite integrated digital TV (IDTV). The MHP IDTV sets will be offered with a number of standard residential applications. These include an electronic service guide, comprehensive menu functionality, and an application manager for downloadable applications. Commenting on the deal with Bang & Olufsen, Frank Bosveld of the SoftWorks business group at Philips Digital Networks, said: “We are delighted to deploy our MHP software technology in Bang & Olufsen’s new range of IDTV sets and therefore provide them with the technology had a technology exchange benefits fall to the consumer who, track for the future.” partnership with Philips for many using a single MHP set-top box or Peter Petersen, CTO of Bang & years. We are assured of success IDTV will be able to receive a wide Olufsen, added: “We want to pioneer with the addition of these new range of new exciting multimedia and integrated DTV in Europe based on MHP IDTV sets.” interactive applications. MHP, because we believe strongly in MHP represents a move away from Bang & Olufsen will offer MHP the open platform approach. We are today’s closed proprietary operating technology in three of its product Philips’ first customer for their systems to an open horizontal concepts. Look out for these IDTV innovative MHP offer, which is a marketplace, offering important sets later this year. natural choice for us because we have benefits to all parties. Ultimately the

ZETACAST LAUNCHES Ken McKann, well known in the DVB world as chairman of the Technical Module group on Audio-Visual Content (AVC), has left NTL to open a new digital TV consultancy with fellow systems engineer Ian Brown. ZetaCast offers a wide range of services including representation in standardisation bodies, specification of broadcast systems architecture, system integration and supplier management, project management and project design services. “This is a challenging time to be starting a new venture, but the need for technical consultancy is never greater than when organisations have reduced their in-house capabilities,” commented Ken. 10639_DVB_SCENE_01.qxd 2.4.2002 12:49 Page 11

IP DATACASTING & DVB Ken McCann of ZetaCast and Chairman, Audio-Visual Content (AVC) users who share a DVB-T cell means group DVB Technical Module reports that unicast data by DVB-T is likely to be best suited to areas of low IP datacasting is a prime example of on the move. For example, the population density. the increasing convergence of photograph illustrates the convenience The IP Datacast (IPDC) Forum has broadcasting, telecommunications and of being able to act on the latest stock recently been set up to promote the computing. The process of making the market information whilst being driven implementation of IP-based services most of the strengths of each to a meeting. over digital broadcast platforms. technology is well summarised by the The DVB-T specification allows a This is an implementation body, DVB vision statement: “to build a trade-off between robustness and the whose work is complementary to content environment that combines the stability and interoperability of the world of broadcast with the vigour, innovation and multiplicity of services of the world of the Internet”. IP datacast services use the traditional digital broadcast networks to deliver IP-based audio, video, graphics and

other broadband data services to the DVB-SCENE : 10 user at home, at work or on the move. The potential applications range from data capacity provided in an RF the standardisation activities within entertainment (e.g. networked games) channel. The parameters chosen in DVB and DAB. to information (e.g. stock market the UK for fixed reception give just Preparatory work for the Forum began information) and business services over 24Mbit/s, whilst a typical mode in September of last year, and it (e.g. product updates to a closed for robust mobile reception would give formally came into being at its first user group). about 10Mbit/s. General Assembly in Zug, Switzerland, 10Mbit/s could be used to provide on 22 January. The twelve initial web based teletext services on a data members represent most aspects carousel. Assuming very little storage of the broadcast and multimedia in the receiver and hence a 30 second industries: Crown Castle, Deutsche cycle time for the carousel, this would Telekom, Digita, NDS, ntl, Nokia, provide a magazine of about 500 Philips, Rohde & Schwarz, web pages: sufficient for basic Sonera, Sony, Teracom and information services. The Fantastic Corporation. The service could be greatly enhanced Open to new members from by adding hard disk storage to the throughout the industry, the Forum receiver. A 40Gbyte hard disk could will act as a catalyst to facilitate the store a library of about 700,000 web growth of IP-based content rich pages to give pseudo on-demand web multimedia applications for delivery via browsing, or to play video clips of a variety of digital broadcast networks True interactive services require a news or sports. The 10Mbit/s data by developing a common set of return channel, although a form of channel would be sufficient to update implementation processes and using a pseudo interactivity can be provided the entire contents three times a day. common set of operating standards. by data storage at the user end. Finally, UMTS could be added to IP datacasting promises to deliver These issues are best illustrated by provide a return channel for true on- services that make the most of the looking at a specific example: demand services and greater capacity combination of broadcasting, datacasting over a digital terrestrial for downstream unicast or multicast telecommunications and computing network using DVB-T. services, e.g. to download the local technologies. Such services are DVB-T can be used to provide traffic information into the car’s already being tested and can be services to fixed receivers, but a navigation system. In principle, either expected to be launched in the particularly interesting application is the UMTS channel or else the DVB-T near future. the distribution of IP services to users channel could be used to carry unicast data. However, the typical DVB-T infrastructure has cell sizes of about 30km radius, compared to about 1km for UMTS. With today’s infrastructure, the larger number of will premiere the will premiere will exhibit its new DVStation-Q, a new across satellite and cable networks. satellite and cable across DVB compliant products Other new the Integrated Services will include: for managing the Network (ISN) data transfer of and efficient reliable Full Services Network over satellite; audio, (FSN) for integrating video, data and telephony applications; and Return Satellite Network (RSN) for two-way high-speed data transmission. is the Making its NAB debut Pixelmetrix DVStation compact version of the 2RU preventative with a new four-port, monitoring solution designed monitoring especially for remote an integrated applications where display user interface and expandability of the standard not required. DVStation are Rohde & Schwarz monitoring receiver Rohde & Schwarz monitoring receiver ETX for quality monitoring of networks. The cost broadcasting comes receiver monitoring effective with a variety of measurement functions and optimally meets the operators. of network requirements Rohde & Transmitter The TV Test Schwarz SFL will be another innovation on show. The Rohde & Schwarz SFL is the all-in-one solution for the production as of STBs and digital TV receivers, well as for the simulation of digital TV transmission, satellite links (terrestrial and cable). Set Test Also new is the ATM/MPEG2 which is Rohde & Schwarz DVATM, suitable for all measurement applications in which MPEG2 transported are transport streams links. via ATM Adding to their DVB range of transmitters, the company will show the new compact, air-cooled, low-power UHF Transmitters Rohde & Schwarz SV7000 for digital fitted to 200 W that are 50 W TV from with LDMOS transistors and integrated OFDM coders. Scientific-Atlanta D9390 advanced modulator PowerVu alongside of its D9390T advanced These DVB modulator with Turbocode. compliant, QPSK, 8PSK and 16QAM designed for capable modulators are single-channel or multiple-channel satellite transmission. will show with ipe IN A Harris SCPC L-band Norsat NAB , the joint venture of , the joint venture ND SatCom integrated with the DVNR real-time integrated with the DVNR workstation. image processing DVB-T Adding to its range of transmitter products, that transmits a digital repeater SPOT, the a pristine signal by decoding it before and recoding DVB-T stream As a gap filler it the re-transmission. to the main can be synchronised transmitter using ITIS SFN technology. SPOT - as it includes the complete COFDM chain - can also be used as a low power standalone transmitter. The solution that will be exhibited at NAB performance connectivity high offers corporate networks. for broadband SkyLANE Based on the company’s L-band modem and transceiver series, data the SCPC L-band solution offers 9.6 kbps to 2048 kbps in rates from 1 bps steps. Nextream Thomson multimedia and Alcatel are at exhibiting a raft of new products and primary NAB. In the broadcasting distribution applications field, the company will exhibit the new MPEG-2 server ad Maestream frame insertion solution that provides accurate, seamless performance on Also on exhibit CBR or VBR streams. will be advanced adaptive prefiltering algorithms for the DBE 4130 encoder. broadcast will be demonstrations of a There turnkey end-to-end solution for interactive TV over xDSL access networks with the XNA 4610 head-end IP gateway. In the fixed contribution applications will launch the µ-XNA field, Nextream the 4600 family’s 4600 that increases abilities to transport multimedia SDH SONET, services over ATM, or PDH telecom networks. Another first for NAB is a new line of high performance, DVB compliant, Encapsulator (IPE) Internet Protocol solutions from BOX for high-speed data transmission will exhibit will exhibit the AGR-IV showcases MHP at this year’s showcases MHP at this DVB solutions in abundance – DVB-SCENE highlights some of the new offerings at of the new offerings highlights some in abundance – DVB-SCENE DVB solutions US exhibition premiere this year’s Tandberg D-ENG solution Tandberg DVB NAB. Significant advancements bringing full towards and interactive/enhanced television Internetservices to consumers will Canal+ with demos from be featured Sofia Digital, Sony, Technologies, Group. and Tao Strategy & Technology Technology Broadcast its new DTMD 1000, a professional COFDM modulator with a 70 MHz IF output in addition to UHF output. Designed to meet the needs of developers and set-top box software the DTMD manufacturers, hardware 1000 is optionally available with data rate monitoring on the incoming transport stream. The DTCR 1000 digital television cable the DTSR 1000 digital and receiver will both television satellite receiver make their first US appearances as concept models at NAB 2002. The to the US company will also introduce market a compact and competitively the monitor, priced ASI data stream DTSM 700. Digital Vision a new version grain and noise reducer, and a new of its ACP colour corrector, Also on exhibit aspect ratio converter. system fully control will be the Valhall PRODUCT - BULLETIN

DVB-SCENE : 11 10639_DVB_SCENE_01.qxd 2.4.2002 12:49 Page 12 Page 12:49 2.4.2002 10639_DVB_SCENE_01.qxd DVB-SCENE : 12 will demo MHP will introduce OpenStream, the OpenStream, will introduce Dear DVB readers, As you may or may not know I will be to Office leaving the DVB Project new – Advanced Digital pastures S.A. in a business Broadcasting I have enjoyed my development role. working closely with time immensely, and the DVB gang, Peter MacAvock not to mention the DVBites around the world. Anthony Smith-Chaigneau [email protected] So please let me bid you a fond goodbye and ask but not farewell you for your continued support to the DVB and to the incoming Head of Marcomms. Will see a lot of you again at the PCM, TM, etc. etc. etc truly, Yours Thales all and control entry point to supervise in a complete the IP multicast streams The company delivery content system. design for its will also show its new TV IP encapsulator and TOPAZ OPAL brand new for Also server. streaming & NAB is a new line of Test the MERCURY Products: Measurement MPEG-2 transport stream real-time over IP analyser and the COBALT analyser. MPEG-2 real-time member The MHP Implementers Group TVC Multimedia will applications on its stand. Visitors a be able see a configurable ticker, mosaic application that allows the viewer to navigate a multiwindow an MHP based EPG and screen, METEO a weather information service. Television will launch new will Television BUT NOT GOODBYE data services for under Euro 50K. Euro data services for under elements It includes all of the essential including an of a digital TV head-end multiplexer, MPEG-2 encoder, MediaCaster modulator and the Sony Server). It is a (DSM-CC Carousel designed to be minimal configuration, as both highly compact and while still inexpensive as possible compliance maintaining fundamental of in respect with the DVB standards and Data Broadcasting. Audio/Video TANDBERG debut technologies and products including: newsgathering and outside for news-on- solutions broadcast Lite, a ground demand with Voyager ‘backpack’ D-ENG solution breaking cameras and designed for wireless newsgathering and Voyager roaming and monitoring DSNG systems; control profitable solutions; systems to create cable and broadband satellite, DVB-T, businesses; and an iTTV branded range that includes broadband iTTV Pilot – a packaged solution of broadband for easy roll-out video over IP trials. Pixelmetrix DVStation-Q Pixelmetrix will introduce a new low cost, will introduce A FOND FAREWELL A FOND FAREWELL Also on display at NAB will be the NAB will display at Also on modulator D9752 advanced PowerVu complete that provides card capabilities encoding/modulator The D9752 comes with for DSNG. 8PSK or option for DVB 8PSK. TurboCode Sony system for self-contained head-end validation and test applications. off-air is The DVB compliant MediaStation video and capable of delivering audio, Sony’s MHP IDTV Sony’s 10639_DVB_SCENE_01.qxd 2.4.2002 12:49 Page 13 Page 12:49 2.4.2002 10639_DVB_SCENE_01.qxd 10639_DVB_SCENE_01.qxd 2.4.2002 12:49 Page 14

applications were demonstrated such as Internet access, cached web BEHIND THE services, location aware services, m-commerce and entertainment. For example, the Travel Guide application lead the driver to several destinations WHEEL WITH MHP included in a precompiled tour using the navigation system. Every time one of the destinations came into reach, details were offered on the screen. In the last edition, the DVB newsletter standardised open platform. The most highlighted the findings of the MCP remarkable being defined in MCP are: Another user scenario demonstrated (Multimedia Car Platform) project. Extended application priority and within the MCP project was the Clever The project established that with the security handling (e.g. car security Petrol application. This application benefit of diversity antenna DVB-T breaks media streaming, blocking alerted the driver when the fuel gauge is also perfectly suited to mobile distraction of the driver while moving); ran under a given limit with the driver reception. In this article, T-Systems Integration of APIs for Speech, Phone, receiving navigational instructions to Nova’s Peter Christ takes a look at Navigation, CarData and a car radio the cheapest petrol station in the area. how MHP services will be enjoyed on interface; Mobile Management Client Conclusions - MCP provides a the move and in the car. In addition, API; Seamless integration of all types powerful architecture for multimedia how positioning and communications of networks (DVB-T, DAB, GSM, services in the car. It has designed a services could be combined with data GPRS, Bluetooth, in-car networks) set of specifications, both for the car and applications received via with TCP/IP; JINI service interface; terminal and for integrated mobile digital broadcast. Abstract user interface supporting communications and broadcast networks to support enhanced broadcasting, mobile communications and positioning services in the car. DVB-SCENE : 13 The MCP software platform is based on the MHP 1.1 specification with extensions to access the navigation, the DAB system, the speech control and the car data bus. The MCP project established that the MHP is suitable for the automotive environment. Content could be conveyed over different networks (DAB, DVB-T, GSM) depending on which is most efficient for the application or data concerned. In a very short time MCP became one of the most relevant European projects in the area of multimedia services for automotive users. All partners acknowledge the need for a coherent launch of MCP services in Europe. The basic specifications of the MCP system, including network and terminal have been published and are available free of charge. manufacturer specific user Basic Terminal Specification - MCP The detailed list of project partners, I/O controls. started from commercial requirements the draft MCP specification itself and for an MHP compliant terminal to be In addition, the MCP receiver has to other significant results of the project used in a car or other mobile perform a number of network related are available at http://mcp.fantastic.ch environments. Therefore, mandatory tasks to enable intelligent network MCP Forum - At the end of the features are: the support of MHP control (handoff / handover, cost- project, the MCP Forum was set up (MHP 1.1) applications, several special function support) and potentially with the primary goal to promote the interface additions respecting the accommodate synergies between IMT results of the MCP project and to focus on mobile use, and not least an and broadcasting bearer services guarantee a continuity of the work. open standard middleware, such as antenna steering and manufacturer specific and diversity reception. Questions related to the MCP Forum configurable look & feel. can be forwarded to: MCP Services - The MCP project [email protected] These demands lead to functional demonstrated Interactive Mobile and technical requirements and Services for car drivers and some extensions to the MHP 1.1 passengers at IFA 2001. Various 10639_DVB_SCENE_01.qxd 2.4.2002 12:49 Page 15

BTL RECEIVER CONFIRMS tests made with omni-directional outdoor and indoor antennas. DVB-T performance was between SUPERIORITY OF DVB-T 10 and 20% superior to the ATSC system at stationary sites and COFDM OVER ATSC 8VSB IN even further ahead in mobile SOUTH KOREAN TESTS reception measurements. The test committee has now advised the South Korean broadcasting authorities to adopt the DVB-T Broadcast Technology (BTL) has standard on the basis of its proven announced that recent tests stability and with an eye towards the completed by a committee of South rapidly expanding market for DVB-T Korean broadcasters confirm the receivers. DVB-T (COFDM) has been superiority of DVB-T over ATSC. selected for use in China, Europe, The comparison was conducted by

India, Latin America and South East DVB-SCENE : 14 members of the Korean Broadcast Asia compared with two countries Engineers & Technicians Association (USA and Canada) that have chosen and Munwha Broadcasting ATSC (8VSB). The US remains at a Corporation under the aegis of the standstill three years into its digital South Korean Digital Terrestrial broadcasting project and Japan has Television Broadcasting (DTTB) postponed its digital broadcasting Comparative Field Trial Committee. schedule to 2003. Taiwan, which A two year old DTVM-2000 COFDM initially selected ATSC (8VSB), gave it DVB-T receiver from BTL, up for DVB-T (COFDM) following a incorporating a first generation comparative study in 2001. chipset, out-performed the very latest BTL commented that the company 8VSB ATSC receiver from LG is pleased that this independent Electronics in mobile and stationary evaluation vindicates the superior performance of both the DVB-T signal format and BTL receivers.

SMART SOLUTION The TechniData iTV.publisher is the company’s first generation software product that according to the manufacturer is an efficient MHP tool that enables broadcasters, broadband network providers and TV media producers to provide flexible interactive content. These screen shots show an iTV portal designed for buying music products. The system provides high-end features like open design, scalability of performance and sophisticated workflow functionality. 10639_DVB_SCENE_01.qxd 2.4.2002 12:49 Page 16