Brandies IPTV Update
Following up on my post about Brandies University and their IPTV trials, I spoke with Tim O'Neil, manager of media and technology for the project. Tim shared the following information about their system. In addition, I spoke with Richard Abott who wrote the original article. He indicated he was not aware of many people currently using the system, though he did not elaborate as to reasons cited.
Tim, how is the IPTV network configured at Brandies? "At this time, IPTV multicast is only available on our wired, campus network. This limited pilot is testing to see if there is positive acceptance of network-based delivery of cable, local and university related programming. Unicast (on demand) servers are available both on and off campus (wired network access only), as long as you have received the link through one of our web-based course programs. These servers exist purely for the dispensation of required, course related video files at the instructor's request.
"Particularly with this pilot, our program consists of its own fully, self-contained servers and applications from VideoFurnace. All necessary agreements with
content providers are in place. As for other infrastructure, we just needed to insure
ample bandwidth and proper switch compatibility on the campus network."
I asked him why they were using a less common delivery platform than WM, Real or Flash? "This IPTV solution is one of a few being offered, most notable of which may be the VBrick solution, the native and self-contained video player allows the app
to better maintain security over its offered programs, but more importantly, it eliminates the need for the end user to install another player on his or her system for watching VF related material. WM or REAL or QT, etc. need to be installed on the end user's system."
Of course, an applet is still downloaded on an end user's machine and all pc's come with WM player as do Mac's with QuickTime, so there really isn't much of a difference. Of course, a Helix server is very expensive to implement, so perhaps the cost to deploy the VBrick is more cost effective than other platforms.
Their site has more information about the project and lists benefits such as not needing a TV set in the users dorm room, though I would suspect the trend amongst that age group of having several media sources running simultaneously, would be more prevalent than a single source.
