Net Insight Releases ASI Transport Access Module for Flexible Bandwidth MPEG Streaming

MPEG streaming over ASI has over the past years gained the support of highly digitized production companies and broadcasters. With the introduction of a module for ASI transport over DTM-based (Dynamic synchronous Transfer Mode) media networks, Net Insight presents the world's first ASI solution with configurable bandwidth for maximum network resource utilization.

"With the ASI Transport Access Module, Net Insight strengthens its commitment to the media networking market. We bridge the gap between the telecom sector and the media industry since our products meet with standards and interfaces from both worlds", says Bengt J. Olsson, VP Product Management.

The new module, compatible with the Nimbra One DTM (Dynamic synchronous Transfer Mode) access switch, brings easy-adjustable bandwidth configuration to ASI transmission. The DTM network protocol allows the setup of channel sizes from 512 kbps up to full link speed, in increments of 512 kbps. By running ASI over DTM, it is possible to adapt to the bit-rate requirements of a specific MPEG stream, or the total of multiple streams. With existing technology, ASI transport consumes 270 Mbps capacity, regardless of traffic volume, making it highly inefficient for transport of single or few streams of compressed video.

The ASI Transport Access Module will have four ports, two for incoming signals and two for outgoing. Multiple modules can be configured side by side in the Nimbra One, making it possible to support large amounts of various traffic requirements. The module features a configurable bandwidth option supporting channel sizes ranging from 512 kbps to 213 Mbps.

The module will have support for (1+1) channel protection, guaranteeing a fail-over time of less than 50 milliseconds in case of link breakdown. For efficient utilization of network capacity, management software will include support for scheduled bandwidth setup. With this function, configuration of capacity can be pre-setup according to reoccurring needs, for example content streaming on certain hours on certain days.

About ASI (Asynchronous Serial Interface)
ASI is a well established standard for transport of MPEG encoded video within the media industry. Today it is a commonly implemented interface in MPEG encoders and decoders, satellite equipment, and cable head-ends. While digitized broadcasters work with studio quality SDI interface within their premises, they normally use the ASI interface for outside contribution and distribution.


ASI Transport Access module key features:

- Full range DVB/ASI. The ASI Transport Access supports transport of DVB/ASI signals ranging from high compressed 512 kbps to full quality 213 Mbps video streams.

- Four (4) ports, with four BNC connectors, 2 input and 2 output, that can be used independently of each other.

- Configurable bandwidth. Utilizes network resources by tailoring the used bandwidth to the stream bandwidth.

- Multicast. Support for multicast of DVB-signals.

- Performance monitoring. Support for performance monitoring of the quality of the video transport.

- Protection switching. Support for several levels of protection switching. From network redundancy with alternate routing to complete 1+1 channel protection with dual equipment end-to-end.

- Standards compatible. The ASI Transport Access complies with Cenelec EN 50083 requirements for professional video.