Shenick Network Systems Ltd. announced today a test system for VoD and advanced compression systems, while AT&T Inc. said its U-verse TV-driven bundle is available in parts of the Dallas-Fort Worth area and its Homezone service’s DVR can be controlled by select wireless devices.
While IPTV deployers of all sizes are starting to get a handle on the impact of basic video delivery, features such as HD and VoD still present daunting challenges when it comes to best handling network loading changes and assuring quality of the video service.
Shenick said version 4.0 of its diversifEye software tests both standard- and high-definition IPTV and VoD down to the individual TV viewer level. It lets service providers determine how networks perform under high load conditions such as network surges which occur during high-demand viewing.
Users can conduct IPTV channel change testing that emulates live headend IPTV channel feeds with real video of any codec type facilitating monitoring of both SD and HD channels. In addition, the vendor said the new user interface offers an easier and intuitive work environment for test personnel. The package ships at mid-month.
AT&T said its U-verse package is available in limited parts of the Dallas-Fort Worth area, the 14th such market to receive the service.
The service provider last week added Milwaukee and Racine, Wis., to the list of markets in which consumers can subscribe to the triple-play offerings.
For those who can’t access U-verse, or are looking for a lower-end offering, AT&T offers its Homezone package, which includes IPTV from satellite provider DISH Network and high-speed Internet from Yahoo.
Today, AT&T made Homezone more alluring by enabling customers with select cell phones to remotely control the DVR function, a feature now enabled via the Internet with U-verse.
The carrier also said it has added substantial premium programming and content through an arrangement with Akimbo Inc. AT&T has said it will provide a receiver for the service that will enable Homezone customers to receive HD channels.
AT&T Inc. www.att.com
Shenick Network Systems Ltd. www.shenick.com
