At SCTE’s Cable-Tec Expo, Volicon will introduce a series of new enhancements to its Observer RPM, a content analysis tool that measures, logs and streams post-set-top box audio, video and metadata.
The Observer RPM system continuously scans the operator’s entire channel lineup around the clock and automatically tests signal integrity, detecting video faults such as black screen, frozen or no video, and violations of audio thresholds. When these errors are detected, the Observer RPM issues alerts (via e-mail, SMS and SNMP) and bookmarks the problematic content when channels do not conform to prespecified limits.
The enhancements include a Proof-of-Experience module that provides the operator visibility of the customer experience around MPEG impairments. The module works from SNMP traps issued by MPEG transport stream analyzers and records the post set-top box audio, video and metadata.
Also to be introduced is an Interactive Services module that offers new ways to ensure the quality of not only linear content, but also on-demand and interactive content and advertising. Through scripting and graphical pattern matching enhancements, the module enables operators to periodically test on-demand and interactive elements along side linear lineups.
The system will also offer improved component and HDMI HD monitoring, virtual remote control and an ad verification module. With the new features, the Observer RPM is one of the first video monitoring solutions to enable operators to remotely test, log and stream HD content post set-top box. By providing frame-by-frame visibility of HD content, the operators are able to assure the availability, proper formatting and quality of the HD programming, and meet their customers’ expectations.
