Definitions: IPTV

Definition

IPTV is the dissemination of programming using the Internet protocol. It usually, but not always, refers to delivery of the programming over the Internet.

IPTV is a broad category that is related to emerging IP-based video conferencing platforms. It can be used internally by an organization for training and meetings. It also can be a vehicle for reaching out to other businesses, customers and prospects. IPTV and IP video increasing  competes with traditional cable and broadcast means to distribute entertainment and education programming. This competition goes two ways, as providers vie both for viewers and for deals with programmers.

Distribution

There are a number of ways in which IPTV is disseminated, and each has its own concerns. The increase in available bandwidth is driving “over the top” IPTV. This is the provisioning of programming over unadorned  broadband lines from websites such as www.hulu.com. Such platforms run the risk of bandwidth shortages or other jitter- and latency-problems. More often than not, however, today’s networks adequately support the needs of general interest users. More specialized subscription services from service providers offer packages that have more robust delivery mechanism but are more expensive.

Of course, content also is finding its way to laptops, cell phones, smart phones and other mobile devices. Such services rely on 3G, Wi-Fi  networks. The emergence of 3G and emerging WiMax and Long Term Evolution (LTE) platforms will increase the viability of mobile IPTV. Delivery over these networks, of course, introduces the relative strengths and weaknesses of each platform.

The distribution of movies, television shows and other  ontent over the Internet radically alters the model that has existed, in more  or less consistent form, since the introduction of commercial television after  World War II. Of course, people will continue to get programming in the  traditional manner. However, traditional broadcasting will be one of many  options, not the sole option. The dislocation will be even greater than the  changes brought by the emergence of cable television in the 1960s and 1970s.

The industry is beginning to serious deal with the issue of delivering IPTV to traditional televisions and not just computers. One element of the rollout involves functionality necessary in the home to convert signals to formats usable by televisions. This circuitry can be located in standalone boxes, co-located in boxes with other functions or even sunken into sets  themselves.