One of the most promoted technologies at recent shows is the cloud solution. This technology is forefront in the minds of many broadcast engineers and managers—perhaps more because of marketing than first-hand knowledge. Before you make the leap, be sure to understand exactly what benefits and costs the cloud will bring.

A group of six cloud solution vendors was queried about the use of cloud technology for broadcast. The answers provided by these vendors resulted in seven tutorials, which are linked at the end of this article. Readers are encouraged to compare the vendor answers to the their individual needs. See the article, “How Real Are Cloud Solutions?”

Apple’s announcement at its Worldwide Developers Conference that it will add fragmented MP4 (fMP4) support to HLS marks a significant step in simplifying online video streaming. fMP4 is the parent of the emerging Common Media Application Format (CMAF), and Apple’s plan to support fMP4 brings the industry closer to the single format for OTT.

Despite that many legacy devices are not upgradeable, CMAF remains the biggest step forward the industry has taken in many years towards a harmonized and converged future. Expect market forces to pick winners (for codecs, captions, encryption modes and presentations formats) and CMAF to settle quickly to be the de-facto OTT media standard. Learn more in the article, “CMAF: What It Is and Why It May Change Your OTT Future.”

Need help in getting from SDI to IP?

See that hill up ahead? It’s not a hill, it’s Mt Everest and your job is to conquer that mountain. Rendered into familiar industry vernacular, you, video engineer, are charged with building an IT-centric facility. A SMPTE standard was just approved, so what’s taking you so long?

The book, “Building IP Media Facilities – Keys to Migrating from SDI,” is a video engineer’s guide to transitioning from digital SDI infrastructures to IT-centric facilities. The book is comprised of 15 chapters focused on key operational aspects of IT and IP terminology, networks and ‘how-to’ practical discussion.

Learn from this important guide. Click here for more information. 

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