"The author discusses the unfolding broadcast distribution ecosystem. Anyone concerned with how to distribute content with new networks, regulations, consumer expectations, and technologies will want this information. The book provides an excellent starting point to understand the content distribution universe. ... The writing style is easily comprehended and quick and to the point. ... The book provides an important and timely introduction to an easily overlooked but important issue." (Brad Reid, Computing Reviews, May, 2017)
"It is Beutler's deep understanding of the special circumstances of PSBs and the complexities of the broadcast value chain that make this such a worthwhile book. ... he is not part of the 'pull up the drawbridge' PSB fraternity, who regard the mobile industry as eating away at public assets for commercial gain. He ... makes a plea for broadcasters to remain engaged in the industry and standards groups that will determine the future of distribution channels in their medium." (Martin Sims, Policy Tracker, policytracker.com, December, 2016)
1 Introduction
2 The Broadcasting Ecosystem
3 Distribution Options
3.1 Broadcasting Networks
3.1.1 Terrestrial Broadcasting Networks
3.1.2 Cable Networks
3.1.3 Satellite Networks
3.2 Broadband Networks
3.2.1 Over-The-Top and Managed Services
3.2.2 Fixed Broadband Networks
3.2.3 Mobile Broadband Networks
3.2.4 WiFi Networks
3.2.5 Content Distribution Networks
4 Regulatory Framework
4.1 Spectrum Regulation
4.1.1 ITU
4.1.2 Regional Organizations
4.1.2.1 CEPT
4.1.2.2 CITEL
4.1.2.3 APT
4.1.3 National Regulatory Authorities
4.1.4 European Commission
4.2 Content Regulation
4.2.1 The European Regulatory Framework
4.2.2 Net Neutrality
5 Changing Habits and Expectations
5.1 Extension of Services
5.2 New Types of Devices
5.3 Usage Environments
5.4 New Trends
6 Technology Developments
6.1 Broadcasting Technologies
6.1.1 DVB-Project
6.1.2 ATSC 3.0
6.1.3 FOBTV
6.2 Mobile Broadband Technologies
6.2.1 eMBMS
6.2.2 TV Enhancements for LTE
6.3 5G
6.4 Hybrid Broadband Networks
7 Scope of Broadcasting
7.1 Public Service Broadcasting
7.2 Distribution Requirements of PSBs
8 Strategic Considerations
8.1 Basic Observations
8.2 Use Cases
8.3 Usage Patterns
8.4 Analysis of the Value Chain
8.5 Business Arrangements
8.6 Distribution Costs
8.7 Assessment of Distribution Options
9 Broadcasting in Uncharted Waters
References
List of Figures
List of Tables
List of Acronyms
Index
Roland Beutler studied Physics at the University of Stuttgart, Germany, and went on to receive a Ph.D. in Mathematical Physics from the Max-Planck-Institute for Metal Physics, also in Stuttgart. Between 1995 and 1996 he worked at the Università degli Studi di Lecce, Italy, under a Fellowship of the European Commission on nonlinear dynamical systems. In 1993 he joined SWR to work in the frequency planning department and is currently responsible for strategy of programme distribution.
Dr Beutler has been participating in EBU Technical activities for more than 10 years and has chaired several EBU groups dealing with the future of radio. He was chair of the Strategic Programmes on “Terrestrial Broadcasting” and on “Cooperative Terrestrial Networks”. Currently he acts as chairman for the Strategic Programme on “Future Distribution Strategies”.
Roland Beutler is also involved in ITU and CEPT work and has been responsible for several of their working groups. He participated in WRC-12, WRC-15 and RRC-06 and was heavily involved in the preparation of the latter conference. Moreover, he has published several articles and four books on frequency and network planning for digital terrestrial broadcasting systems, the Digital Dividend and broadcast content distribution.
This book discusses opportunities for broadcasters that arise with the advent of broadband networks, both fixed and mobile. It discusses how the traditional way of distributing audio-visual content over broadcasting networks has been complemented by the usage of broadband networks. The author shows how this also gives the possibility to offer new types of interactive or so-called nonlinear services. The book illustrates how change in distribution technology is accelerating the need for broadcasters around the world to adapt their content distribution strategy and how it will impact the portfolios of content they offer.
Outlines the shift in broadcast content distribution paradigms and related strategic issues
Provides an overview of the new broadcasting ecosystem encompassing new types of content, user habits, expectations, and devices
Discusses complementary usage of different distribution technologies and platforms