Different goals, same technology – how DVB-I delivered for two projects

These two deployments have many similarities, but their objectives were different. Saorview set out to demonstrate how DVB-I can be used to support the Irish DTT platform’s migration to an IP/ hybrid future. For Sat.tv, the aim was to implement an enhanced version of the existing satellite-based platform without the need for a set-top box.

As we have implemented the complete DVB-I specification in our metadata manager, the services could be up and running quickly, with minimal development. Most of the challenges were related to integration with existing data sources: both customers had access to the required data about services, schedules and on-demand content, but adaptation scripts were developed using APIs. This supported enhanced content for viewers and automated platform management.

Sat.tv Connect

For Sat.tv, the challenge was to build a scalable end-to-end DVB-I solution that would interface with Eutelsat’s existing video and metadata manager. This aggregates lists containing the technical parameters of thousands of free-to-air services available on Eutelsat’s satellite positions. The new solution had to be entirely cloud-based, and scalable in terms of the volume of metadata to be processed. It required fine-grained management of traffic growth, according to the number of DVB-I clients to be served, with high availability for intensive operation, as more than 30 service lists are updated daily with their own EPG exposing hundreds of channels.

The Sat.tv Connect service was successfully launched by the end of 2024.

Saorview PoC

For Saorview, it was important to show clear benefits that can be delivered using DVB-I. These included an enhanced content guide, with restart and deep links to catch-up, hybrid channel delivery, and easier access to the RTÉ Player and ‘boxed sets’. Other objectives included full compliance with the DVB-I specification, the ability to manage metadata in-house, and deployment on Saorview’s own cloud infrastructure. A key challenge was how to maintain consistency with metadata for catch-up and programme restart.

As content protection is essential for IP delivery, cost-effective DRM (digital rights management) protection for livestreams is also a priority – this is an ongoing part of the PoC development, taking into account user behaviour of ‘zapping’ between channels. It is hoped that the PoC can lead to an initial public trial in the Irish market in 2025.

Adaptable

These projects have shown how adaptable DVB-I can be, delivering real benefits in two very different environments. Both have benefited from a solid foundation by using OSP’s complete implementation of the specification, as well as great support from Vestel, who supplied the receivers. Yotta Media, another DVB Member, was also a key partner on both projects.

These projects have proved how easily DVB-I can be implemented and that real benefits can be delivered. Eutelsat Group and Saorview are now planning the next phase of their respective deployments, ultimately delivering those benefits to their viewers.

Additional input was kindly provided by Ralph Edeine, Broadcast Standards and Consumer Equipment Manager, Video Business Unit, Eutelsat Group and Jim Higgins, Business Development Manager at Saorview.

This article first appeared in Issue 65 of DVB Scene magazine. Find DVB-I resources at dvb-i.tv

Gordon Maynard has many years’ experience of delivering innovative services based on both DVB and IP standards. He is the founder of OnScreen Publishing, providing tools for the rapid development of multi- screen apps and data-management systems.