DVB-SIM (SimulCrypt) - Guidelines

Introduction

From now on, the DVB SimulCrypt standard is a broadly implemented specification. This situation is due in particular to a significant property of the SimulCrypt solution, offering the option to use in the same head-end multiple CA systems simultaneously with the same content.

Actually the standard proposes, first, the definition of a head-end architecture reference model identifying logically each of its components. But above all, it specifies interoperable interfaces with those of these components supplied by the CA systems

Scope

The present document provides implementation guidelines for the use and implementation of the DVB Simulcrypt standard.

It first tries to draw attention to the technical questions that need to be answered in setting up a DVB SimulCrypt head-end. It also provides guidelines which are intended to be highly recommended rules and as such, aims to facilitate the efficient and reliable implementation of the SimulCrypt model and of its interfaces.

The rules apply to broadcasters, network operators as well as manufacturers.

Clause 4 “Architecture” presents the DVB SimulCrypt Architecture Model as described in TS 103 197 [6].

Clause 5 “Compliance between version 1 and version 2 of the standard” explains how to support compliance between both versions 1 and 2 of ECMG and EMMG/PDG protocols.

Clause 6 “ECMG<->SCS Protocol” fulfils the ECMG protocol description mainly by giving the state diagram.

Clause 7 “EMMG/PDG<->MUX protocol” fulfils the EMMG/PDG protocol description by giving the state diagram and by clarifying the bandwidth concept, UDP behaviour and datagram packetization rules.

Clause 8 “C(P)SIG<->(P)SIG” describes profiles for adapting the C(P)SIG protocol implementation to real and simple needs.

Clause 9 “SIMF based protocols – Role of NMS” allows for reducing the use of the MIB for monitoring only.

Clause 10 “Error management” clarifies error management in DVB SimulCrypt protocols.

Clause 11 “Redundancy management” sums up uniqueness aspects of protocol parameters and describes basic redundancy policies for functions of the DVB SimulCrypt architecture model.

The present document uses the terminology defined in TS 103 197 [6] and should be read in conjunction with that document.