Beyond the teleport: a perspective on the transition to HDTV and MPEG 4

摘要

Why were there so many satellite companies at IBC? Equipment manufacturers are no longer the only ones hawking their wares at large trade shows such as IBC and NAB. Satellite operators, service providers and technical suppliers have become so numerous at these events that they now have their own exhibit halls. Across the board, the relationships between content creator, distributor and technology provider have become increasingly close. In particular, the emergence of digital, high-definition television (HDTV) programming and bandwidth-efficient MPEG 4 technology means the broadcasting industry is increasingly dependent on both satellite and fibre-optic cable technology for delivery of the rich new content. As a result, GlobeCast - a subsidiary of France Telecom - has expanded beyond its traditional role as a teleport operator to become a leading satellite service provider, as well as a full-service integrator and technology partner for all kinds of content distribution.