One of the specific challenges facing the video broadcasting world is to deliver high-quality video content in 4K and 8K formats from point A to B at significant distances. Since transmission bandwidth of a certain link is fixed, say cable or cellular network, it is required to push more and better quality video data to consumption devices like TV, tablet and smartphones. An important solution is HEVC codec products which double the compression ratio and enable 50% or more in bandwidth savings compare to today’s H.264 format.
Various technologies improve video consumption experience, including High-Dynamic-Range (HDR) encoding, statistical multiplexing (StatMux), Adaptive Bit Rate (ABR) encoding.
Here is a scenario to consider. Let’s say that a live event is being captured by a 4K (or even higher) production camera, and on the other end, how can we bridge the video content delivery from end-to-end efficiently?
Here’s how encoding and decoding technologies and products can enable this advanced capability.
As an example, the Socionext encoder can compress a 4K 60P real time HEVC video using only a quarter rack unit. And, it utilizes only 8W of power, which can provide a 90 percent power saving as compared with other solutions that complete the same tasks.
In addition, the single channel HEVC content is transmitted using only half the bandwidth required with the conventional H.264 - 7.5Mbps versus 15Mbps.
And there is more - statistical multiplexing software such as that provided by Socionext can analyze video streams and maximize bandwidth allocation so that multi-channel contents can be uplinked simultaneously to the satellite. This kind of simultaneous uplink saves broadcasters much time and money as opposed to relying strictly on the constraints of the uplink bandwidth.
Now the next steps. After the super head-end facility downloads the content, it is edited and encoded using a HEVC video encoder such as Socionext’s “M31”. The content may go to a secondary head-end where transcoding takes place using encoder and IRD (integrated receiver/decoder). When the video is ready for delivery, it is then transmitted via cable, satellite TV or live media streaming.
Media streaming service provider such as Amazon, Netflix, Hulu – including cable networks -- can further process the content using new generations of codecs. Finally, it is delivered to end customers.
Like most broadcasters, Socionext envisions a steady evolution from HD technology through 4K and onto 8K in a relatively compressed period of time. The portfolio of low power, compact and highly integrated devices that meet specific needs of customers at every stop on the evolutionary path.
This article was also published as a guest blog on Embedded-Computing.com - http://embedded-computing.com/guest-blogs/the-challenges-of-delivering-4k-and-8k-video/
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