IPTV Case Studies

QVC

When TV shopping channel QVC wanted to expand their TV distribution facility to cover new floors, they realised their existing cable-based television system was unable to cope with the 40,000sq ft expansion so they started looking for alternative technology and contacted several companies including Klicktv for proposals.

QVC were initially interested in TV distribution as Audio/Video over Cat5 cabling, but they expanded their range of options to include IPTV after speaking to klicktv who were able to offer both solutions. In due course QVC elected to go for an IPTV solution running over a separate data network, but leaving the option for integration with their existing corporate data network in the future. Klicktv provided a complete integrated solution, supplying the IPTV system, the data network and carrying out the necessary work on their existing signal reception head end to integrate the new system.

QVC’s business requirement is for access to a wide range of TV channels at a large number of viewing points. An Exterity IPTV solution was installed with a Freeview TV Gateway capable of streaming all six multiplexes and 21 MPEG2 encoders to stream the outputs of local studios, sales data sources and Set Top Boxes for reception of encrypted Sky channels. The system has the capacity for more than 50 channels and will support an unlimited number of TV screens. IPTV receivers connect TV screens to the data network and to get maximun benefit from the technology, QVC opted for POE variants which means power is supplied over the data network cable obviating the need for mains power and reducing cable clutter at the TV screen.

When QVC expand to their next floor, they will simply add further network switches to their data network and more IP receivers wherever they need more TV screens.