Internet Protocol Television is the service where digital television services are provided with the help of internet protocol via broadband connection.

It can be bagged with other Internet Protocol services such as VoIP, video over demand and high-speed Internet access. In traditional television delivery, all programming is broadcast simultaneously. The available program signals flow downstream and the viewer selects the program he wants to watch by changing the channel. While in case of IPTV only one program downloads at a time. When a user selects another program, then another signal line transferred to him and then he can enjoy another program.

Components required with IPTV are a TV set, Delivery network, a landline telephone connection and a new device called as set top box. A set top box acts as an interface between television and broadband connection. Telephone companies are key element of IPTV service. Because it is entirely depends upon telephone lines.

Initially, in India it was started at some places only by two organizations BSNL and MTNL. But now communication companies like Reliance and Bharti are involved with this emerging technology.

The biggest advantage of using IPTV is that the user or subscriber has full control over the communication means the user can pause, rewind or fast forward a specific program.

Remote programming is another key feature of IPTV. A user can easily record his/her favorite program from any remote position.

The IPTV service provides bidirectional access to a program. There could be an interactive session between viewer and the program. A user can participate in a group discussion with a particular channel.

With the help of IPTV, a user can record multiple broadcasts at one time. A user is allowed to surf some musical program, while watching news.

IPTV service is trying to be extended in India. But, still it is facing some challenges. These challenges mainly include weak distribution. The service was launched in Delhi, India last year. But till date it has subscriber base of just 3000. The reason for weak distribution is use of copper wires, which can transmit data only to few kilometers.

Another big challenge is the strong framework of cable operators in India. If they start working with IPTV, then definitely this budding technology will create a real boom in the market.

Unawareness of the service is another obstacle on the way. People should be instructed about the service first and only then it is possible to expand its area.

It is slowly making a way in international market. According to recent survey, IPTV has extended its way in the international market, with providers in many countries including Italy, France, Ireland, Japan, Hong Kong, Spain and the United Kingdom. International telecom companies like Alcatel and Verizon are working with Microsoft to develop and promote IPTV services.

Satinder Kaur/ITvoir Network

For Further Information Contact : www.itvoir.com