Will SAT>IP be a quantum leap in satellite reception?

In early November, SES, the world's leading satellite operator, issued a certificate of compatibility for Zinwell SAT>IP switch/ server, stating compliance of the device with the approved in 2011 SAT> IP standard. The ZIM-1800 switch/server from the Taiwanese manufacturer has become the second SAT> IP device that gained the approval of the organization responsible for developing this standard (the SAT> IP Project partners include SES, BSkyB, and Craftwork). The first certified SAT>IP converter was IDL400S Multibox developed by Inverto Digital Labs. Thomas Wrede, Vice President of Reception Systems at SES, emphasizes the fact that other Asian manufacturers are also interested in the certification. It seems that the rise in popularity of the SAT> IP technology is only a matter of the near future.

According to the SAT> IP standard, satellite signals are demodulated and then converted into IP streams that can be distributed through wired or wireless IP networks. The user of the network can independently watch satellite channels on devices such as PCs, laptops, tablets, and smartphones running dedicated applications. Of course, the content will also be available on Smart TVs and other televisions equipped with external network adapters or IPTV receivers (IP STBs). The communication protocol between the server and clients has been developed by the consortium of satellite operator SES, UK broadcaster BSkyB, and Danish TV software company Craftwork. SAT> IP is based on existing Internet protocols such as IP, UPnP, RTSP, HTTP, supplemented by a special extension for satellite content. The solution is compliant with DLNA protocol implemented in many consumer devices.

SAT>IP servers can distribute satellite media streams in unicast or multicast RTP/UDP (RFC2250) mode,as well as they support HTTP streaming. The delivery format is chosen by the client device.

One of the major advantages of the SAT>IP solution is its total independence from the Internet. Despite the use of IP technology, the transmission takes place only in the local network, not generating any additional costs (no need for higher Internet bandwidth). A typical home network operating at 100 Mbps will allow for simultaneous transmission of 8 different HD channels.

If the forecasts of the creators of the SAT> IP standard are correct, the year 2013 can bring a great revolution in consumer satellite market. With a range of certified devices, their prices should fall to levels acceptable by the majority of individual users of FTA channels and the operators of pay-TV platforms, which will change the form of using home television systems. A greater integration of television and home IP networks will lead to a practical implementation of the idea of ​​watching TV "everywhere and on anything" (at least in the home).