BT has developed its software-defined network (SDN) architecture to enable advanced broadcast network for cutting down cost.
BT is conducting the technology trials at the Innovation Week during 12 – 16 June, in BT’s Labs at Adastral Park, Ipswich. Nevion and Cisco supplied relevant technology for the SDN project.
BT said its demo will show how the technology can transport multiple HD uncompressed video flows across a SDN through to a production studio via high-bandwidth network pipes. BT will be able to capture live footage remotely, covering events without sending camera crews to the venue, saving millions of pounds.
The technology will allow broadcasters increased flexibility, with the ability to change the format of footage at the touch of a button as it passes across the infrastructure.
BT is using Nevion’s media nodes that encapsulate raw video into the desired format before transmitting it over the IP network built by Cisco switches. BT said Cisco provided the core SDN technology. Nevion’s VideoIPath software is providing the SDN management and orchestration.
“We’re keen to explore how a broadcast infrastructure based on true SDN and related technologies could potentially allow us to build a brand new next generation and multi-tenanted global network in the future in the same way as we led the way on MPLS and IP based media networks previously,” said Mark Wilson-Dunn, vice president of BT Media & Broadcast.
Peter Karlstromer, senior vice president, Global Service Provider, Cisco and Geir Bryn-Jensen, CEO of Nevion, were part of the BT trials.
Recently, BT’s Media and Broadcast division delivered network to the BBC, in a 7-year deal worth more than £100 million. The network links all BBC UK sites and will also connect to the main overseas bureau and partners for playout of the BBC’s TV channels. The network will carry video, audio and data traffic, as well as fixed line telephony, ISDN and broadband services.
BT has provided the UK’s first uncompressed video contribution network connecting all 20 Premier League football stadiums in a three year deal with the League’s international broadcasting outlet, Premier League Productions (PLP).
