A modular multirate video distribution system-design and dimensioning

A modular architecture is proposed for distributing broadcast and switched video. The architecture consists of a set of concentration buses (or input buses), a TDM-based bus matrix and a set of distribution buses (or output buses). The transmission time in each output bus is divided into fixed size frames. Dedicated time slots in a frame are reserved for broadcast video. The remaining time slots are allocated to switched video on a first-come-first-served basis. Videos are switched via time slot assignments which determine the connections within the bus matrix. Two slot assignment algorithms are designed, one for point-to-point transmissions and the other for point-to-multipoint transmissions. The advantages of this architecture include: (1) accommodation of multirate video, (2) support of video broadcasting and multicasting, and (3) modular growth at distributed locations.<
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