Monitors check up on Aussie TV quality

Edited by the Electronicstalk editorial team Jun 11, 2004

Telstra is using the DVStation to provide distributed multipoint, real-time signal and content integrity monitoring for its DVB-C network delivering Foxtel's digital cable television to Australia.

Pixelmetrix DVStation has been selected and deployed by Telstra to provide distributed multipoint, real-time signal and content integrity monitoring for its DVB-C network delivering Foxtel's digital cable television to the Australian people.

The system uses the 21-port Pixelmetrix DVStation deployed at the five major broadcast centres within Australia to ensure signal quality and programme content are within Telstra's strict operational requirements.

Telemetry, alarms and performance data are fed in real time over a robust, internal network to two full-service management centres, located in Sydney and Melbourne.

"The simultaneous multi-user access of DVStation allows our engineers to identify and resolve a problem from thousands of kilometres away", notes Mark Sanders, Technology Manager of the Broadcasting and Interactive Technology Media group.

Telstra's system also features an extensive alarm log and fault status display which filters and displays all open and unacknowledged alarms according to priority simplifying the system management process.

DVStation's distributed, automated network monitoring technology will be used to insure the quality and integrity of the digital signal throughout the network.

Hundreds of parameters are monitored in real-time at different points throughout the transmission chain Real time alarms are sent to a centralised network management site in case of a quality discrepancy to guarantee the fastest possible intervention by the network operators.

"Together with our Australian partner, Techtel, we are very pleased to help Telstra meet their goals of exceptional service and high quality by providing the complete quality and service integrity monitoring solution for their network".

"Telstra's conclusion is proof that the Pixelmetrix strategy of working closely with our customers and focusing on the needs of the digital video network operator has put us in a clear leader position in this market", says Danny Wilson, Pixelmetrix CEO.