Have You Heard About It?
Secure Reliable Transport (SRT) is a new open source protocol, originally developed by Haivsion, and now adopted by most of the video industry via the SRT Alliance. The technology now allows broadcast quality video content to be reliably transported and distributed over un-managed internet connections. This capability provides broadcasters, content owners, and video service providers unparalleled flexibility in reaching consumers, and also offers a new opportunity to significantly reduce cost and complexity in the network.
What About the C-Band Implications?
A big chunk of the C-Band is now being re-allocated to 5G Mobile, and will be auctioned off to the big cellular carriers. With the impending loss of C-Band spectrum for conventional satellite distribution, many operators are wondering how best to comply with the new order, and still maintain video service to their subscribers. Many are now finding that SRT-enabled video processing equipment, coupled with terrestrial transmission links, are their best option for both complying with the new FCC order and saving money. They have determined that, in many cases, they can eliminate satellite reception altogether or partner with another company to share downlinks. Could this be the best option you?
Is there a better way to handle local feeds?
Some operators are already using SRT to acquire and upload local content quickly and “on demand”, without the need for the dedicated and expensive transmission equipment they previously used. Whether it’s a “PEG” channel, or a local sporting event, you may no longer need a special transmission van parked at the site to upload that content into your line-up. As long there is public internet at a local site (or 5G!), and SRT enabled equipment in the hands of the film crew, it is often quick and easy to set up and cover local events of interest to your subscribers. This past spring one of our customers streamed graduation ceremonies for the local high schools directly to their customers’ homes, eliminating the need for them to gather in large crowds during the COVID pandemic.
What about competing for new customers?
With reliable public internet, you may no longer need to control the wireline distribution, in order to serve a valuable customer. For instance, do you have special content, that may be of interest to Nursing Home residents? SRT may allow you to “get there” without building a physical connection. If you are a small broadcaster or content owner, and you need to get your feed out to video distributors in many locations, why should you pay for expensive satellite up-links? Converting your feed to SRT, and sending over readily available terrestrial internet connections may be the answer.
We Have Been Thinking A Lot About SRT. Have You?
At WISI, many of our customers have already seen the benefits of SRT, versus traditional video distribution. In response, we have incorporated this new protocol into our entire product line. We can help you understand this new protocol, and evaluate where it may make sense for you.
Want to learn more about SRT? Read our Whitepaper – How to use SRT to Minimize Costs, Optimize Your Network and Deliver Live Video over the Internet.
By Phil McCall
Director of US National Accounts
Phil McCall is a 40 year veteran of the Telecom and MSO markets, having spent almost his entire career calling on Tier 1 Carriers in the US and abroad. A native of Florida, and a graduate in Industrial Engineering from the University of Florida, he has spent most of his career in the Atlanta, GA area, but has recently moved to Indiana to be closer to family.