ST, Fraunhofer develop first 3d video receiver based on MPEG DASH standard

The fully working prototype was developed within the EU funded Content Aware Searching and Streaming (COAST) project. HTTP streaming enables high quality video delivery over IP to connected tv sets, set top boxes and mobile terminals. Recently released by the 3GPP and MPEG groups, Dynamic Adaptive Streaming over HTTP (DASH) aims to simplify the deployment of broadband video streaming services across different network infrastructures and end devices, replacing the multitude of proprietary HTTP streaming protocols with one open standardised solution. DASH defines formats for content preparation and tools for fast and efficient content adaptation. It supports trick modes, multi language subtitles and audio tracks, ad insertion and multiple digital rights management technologies aimed at protecting content, and works with standard web server and cache technologies. According to ST, the ST-HHI DASH based software video receiver uses specialised algorithms designed to ensure uninterrupted video delivery and optimal viewing experiences. This, says ST, is achieved through automatic selection of bit rate video resolution and format based on the actual network conditions, end device capabilities and user preferences. Bandwidth fluctuations are compensated for by automatic variation of the video bit rate while the video is automatically selected according to the type of terminal. This enables users to watch the same 3d content on standard 2d display devices. The ST-HHI 3D adaptive streaming package comprises a video server, a pc connected to a 3d monitor and a thin client with 2d display. The 3d video content is generated and delivered over IP from a remote server to both terminals, while the same 3d video flow is automatically adapted to 2d in the thin client. The prototype implements the DASH technology in GStreamer, a multimedia framework for pc and embedded platforms that supports a range of media formats and streaming protocols. Amedeo Zuccaro, director, Security & Multimedia System R&D, ST's Advanced Systems Technology Group, pictured, said: "DASH enables efficient and easy video delivery – both on demand and live streaming – over the existing Internet infrastructure to any connected device without any special provisions. Through our collaboration with HHI, we are the first silicon manufacturer with native support for DASH based adaptive video streaming integrated in our devices."