Determining your ContentDepot^® Equipment Needs for Live Programs

ContentDepot pre-recorded programs are delivered as files and live programs continue to be delivered as program streams. Pre-recorded program files are delivered via the file transfer system to station storage receivers. During the initial rollout in 2006, each station received two storage receivers—one primary receiver to capture all of the ContentDepot-delivered files and a second receiver that can be used as a hot backup.

Live programs in the ContentDepot are received on a streaming decoder. Satellite interconnected stations were sent two decoders for live streams. Each decoder provides two stereo audio outputs (or ports) to support a total of four simultaneous live feeds that a station can receive at any given time.

While the ability to receive four concurrent live programs is sufficient for many of the stations in the PRSS, some stations with complex programming needs or those originating multiple program services may need more outputs. Your station should consider its live programming requirements, including regular series and news programs, breaking news, and multicasting for HD Radio, to evaluate if you may need to purchase additional decoders.

You can also use our Decoder Worksheet to evaluate your decoder requirements.

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