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Mobile television in fourth generation networks (Mobtv)
In the fourth generation wireless data transmission networks (4G); digital television (DVB-T/S/), wireless local area networks (WLAN) and dedicated networks like cellular networks (GSM, GPRS, UMTS) interconnect seamlessly. Because of this association the user does not necessarily even notice, through which dedicated network is he/she using the services. The principle is that he/she can use services where ever, when ever and preferably -- at least in scale down form -- from any terminal.
It is interesting to study how this will effect the ways of consuming media. Within this project we will mainly concentrate on television communication.
We are developing model for associating digital television and other wireless data networks. According to one model, "general" programs for all users will be transmitted via digital television (1>N transfer). More personalised content would be fetched through cellular-, and local area networks (1-1 transfer). Common and user-specified content would be linked together. This
kind of division would make it possible to break network actions optimally -- it does not seem rational to transfer e.g. olympic games as 1-1 transfer except in exceptional cases.
The project is carried trough using methods of human-centred design. We will evaluate the system with test users in every phase of the project.
The aim of the project
The aim is to develop selection and personalisation methods suitable for viewing television.
Software prototype tested in user tests will allow us to watch aerial digital television broadcast with mobile devices and to use interactive services connected to programs. The prototype is based on wireless data transfer channels (digital television, UMTS, WLAN) seamless association
and easily expandable media servers. Through test with prototype we are defining what kind of interface, content and service will be suitable for mobile television and though that its model of business. The prototype and concluded business model will work as a base for production for global markets.
This project is innovative in many ways:
- software methods for using digital television and cellular network togeather in mobile television
and thus to optimise the use of channel capasities (4G network)
- demonstrate DVB network data transmission services especially connected to multiplexes.
- new kind of "subtle" personalisation suitable for TV viewing. It is based on profiles transferred from
terminal to terminal and from application to another. Profiles will cover different information sources (EPG,
Internet)
- methods to deliver data material between users not forgetting user rights
- easily expandable fractal media server which will enable TV-Anytime aspect.
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