At IBC satellite operator Eutelsat is taking new steps for Ultra HD, turnkey connected TV platforms and live demo the old idea in a new package of the ‘interactive LNB(f)’, recently launched under the ‘smart LNB’ label.
Eutelsat is now taking the next step in 4K broadcasting with the launch of a channel with HEVC (H.265) encoding that will be multiplexed with the existing (H.264 compressed) Quad HD signal in the same EUTELSAT 10A transponder. This second channel is aimed at being decoded by Ultra HD set top boxes equipped with HEVC chipsets that will feed consumer Ultra HD TV sets via a single HDMI cable. Working in partnership with leading broadcasters, exclusive Ultra HD content will also be shown on the latest generation of consumer displays.
Eutelsat launched Europe’s first dedicated 4K channel in January. This offers content owners and broadcasters with a managed 4K H.264 encoding and play-out platform managed by Ateme. Demonstrating how its satellites are geared up to deliver the what it refers to as ‘the consumer broadcast industry’s most immersive viewing experience’.
The operator will present at the show the latest features of IPTV platforms tailored for broadcasters and network operators that are taking viewing beyond linear TV to non-linear services and beyond the TV set onto multi-screens and mobile devices. Eutelsat will also show the performance of DTH/broadband platforms that show how a hybrid infrastructure can deliver new levels of interactivity to enhance the user experience.
The Eutelsat stand will also host the first live demo of the operator’s recently announced interactive ‘smart LNB’ that opens the door for broadcasters to operate their own ecosystem of linear television and connected TV services directly by satellite. The ‘smart LNB’ is a new-generation electronic feed connected to an antenna with an embedded transmitter to provide services such as HbbTV, pay-per-view, social networking, live show participation, personal subscription management and audience measurement.