OKI Demonstrates OKI MediaServer in ITU-T 's First IPTV Interoperability Test Event


TOKYO - OKI participated in the ITU-T IPTV Interoperability Event held in Geneva, Switzerland, demonstrating the compatibility of the OKI Networks "OKI MediaServer" IP video delivery system with H.721, part of the IPTV H.700 series standards. Held for the first time, the IPTV Interoperability Event is intended to serve as a demonstration and testing event addressing interoperability among the ITU-T's recommended products. OKI demonstrated its "OKI MediaServer", the only IPTV-compatible video delivery server at the event, and demonstrated its compatibility with IPTV devices from other manufacturers. The Event is scheduled to take place in Singapore (September) and in India (December) and OKI plans to participate in these Events.

The "OKI MediaServer" was connected to commercially available IPTV-compatible set top boxes and digital television devices made by other participants. The event featured interoperability testing and demonstrations of Video-on-Demand (VOD), a technology that allows audiences to view videos whenever they want over IP networks, and IP broadcasting, which delivers programs according to a prepared schedule. The demonstrations won high evaluations from visitors.

The ITU-T H.700 series5 standards address high-definition digital broadcasts over IP. The H.721 standard for IPTV terminals is part of a series covering basic IPTV services, including VOD and IP broadcast information services. Examples include electronic program guides. The H.721 is a standard that defines the terminal interface required to receive broadcasts over an IP network using IP multicasting.6 The standard also addresses video-on-demand, allowing audiences, for instance, to view content at any time and to forward the content viewed. The standard is based on specifications for IPTV Forum Japan, a standard for IPTV in Japan and adopted for Hikari- TV provided by NTT Plala. Adoption is also underway in other nations.

"We are proud to announce that 'OKI MediaServer' is currently the only server equipped with video delivery functions and compatible with the H.721 standard," says Hidetshi Saigou, General Manager, Info-telecom Systems Division at OKI. "This characteristic ensures interoperability with various other H.721-compatible devices from other manufacturers, including set top boxes and IPTV-compatible digital television device. I was delighted to see 'OKI MediaServer' deliver stable, reliable high-definition videos for video-on-demand and IP broadcasting, as well as easy channel switching. The results of this successful interoperability test will certainly establish the basis for the future development of our IPTV services."

IPTV, a key application for NGN, is expected to enter widespread global deployment. Capitalizing on the results of the interoperability event, OKI will contribute to emerging standardization for IPTV services based on the "OKI MediaServer" and pursue business opportunities by providing IPTV platforms that can be readily adopted by IPTV service companies in Japan and abroad. OKI also plans to participate in and contribute to efforts to establish international standards for new IPTV services and to provide products that offer compatible IPTV services.

About Oki Electric Industry Co., Ltd.

Founded in 1881, Oki Electric Industry Co., Ltd. is Japan's leading telecommunications
manufacturer. Headquartered in Tokyo, Japan, OKI provides top-quality products, technologies, and solutions to customers through its info-telecom systems and printer operations. Its various business divisions function synergistically to bring to market exciting new products and technologies that meet a wide range of customer needs in various sectors. Visit OKI's global website at www.oki.com/.

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