Satellite File Transfer

ContentDepot^® Distribution of Stored Programs

In the ContentDepot distribution system, stored programs are transmitted over the satellite as files. These files are then downloaded by a station and stored in a directory that can be accessed by a station's automation system.

How does satellite file transfer work?

Audio files are sent to the ContentDepot headend asset management system through a variety of methods, including:

1. Electronic submission
2. Upload into the ContentDepot Catalog
3. Delivery of physical media (CDs, DAT, tape) that is encoded at the System Technical Center (STC)

Once uploaded, the ContentDepot scans the files for viruses and then makes them available for transfer to a station. File delivery requests may be initiated directly by stations via a web interface or automatically by the ContentDepot. Upon receipt of a delivery request, the asset management system will send the files to IP encapsulators in the STC that prepare the file for satellite transmission. Stations equipped with new receivers (provided as part of the ContentDepot) will be able to capture and store the files, making them available to their automation systems. The new satellite receivers have built in storage. (Think of them as cable modems with hard drives.)

File transfer is a service for stored programs only—live programs will be handled separately. From a station's perspective, the file delivery process is as seamless as downloading files from the Internet—with the added benefits that the satellite provides a more reliable transmission path and better integration with automation equipment.

What are the benefits of satellite file transfer?

• Audio files stay in their native format (transcoding is not required for transmission), maintaining the sonic integrity.
• IP routing puts the files in a place accessible to a station's automation system.
• Distribution over satellite allows large files to move to participating sites through an IP-enhanced satellite channel. This bypasses the network congestion and bandwidth requirements that are typical of distribution via the Internet.
• IP over satellite takes advantage of available bandwidth to potentially move files faster than real time. (A one-hour program could be delivered in less than an hour depending on traffic.)
• Stations will have the ability to treat stored programs as files instead of as live streams.
• IP over satellite for file transfer is proven technology and utilizes off-the-shelf equipment.