Lessons learned from multimedia field trials in Germany

Multimedia applications have been evaluated in multiple field trials for some years. Experience was gained on the application, network services, and technology levels. Lessons learned from multimedia field trials will influence development, rollout and operations of future broadband networks. In this article the results of some multimedia field trials conducted in Germany are analyzed. It includes an overview on multimedia experiments conducted over the past decade. A classification of multimedia applications, services, and platforms is followed by a description of a set of experiments. The trials were carried out for business and residential user groups. The technologies utilized in these tests are described in the respective contexts. Finally, the experiences are summarized and areas that need further study are identified.