• by Jane Clarke , April 19, 2012

CIMM is taking a pro-active role in advancing new media nomenclature and processes with both its Lexicon(terms and definitions associated with return-path data measurement) and Asset Identification Primer (glossary of asset terms). These documents form the basis of this column, which offers a common language for RPD nomenclature that can expedite the rollout of the data for its many industry applications.

Last week’s column (Return-Path Data Lexicon: Bandwidth) discussed the importance of bandwidth in accessing content and the challenge of apportioning enough bandwidth for speedy access while still managing costs. This week we examine the terms and definitions for bandwidth apportionment and optimization. How can cost, efficiency and customer satisfaction be balanced?

Bandwidth Optimization

See also: QAM, Switched Digital Video

CIMM DEFINITION: Managing the trade-off between the cost and the efficiency of delivering video.

NOTE - Bandwidth is one of the primary cost concerns cable and telecommunications operators deal with when considering new consumer or advertising applications. Bandwidth optimization solutions have been developed to accommodate the growth in consumer applications including HD video and higher broadband speeds and advertiser applications such as household addressable TV advertising. (Source: Visible World)

SDV abbr Switched Digital Video

See also: Advanced Advertising, Bandwidth Optimization

CIMM DEFINITION: CIMM DEFINITION: A method of distributing digital video, utilizing bandwidth more efficiently by only broadcasting channels that have been requested by at least one household within a cable service area. (Source: CableLabs)

2: “Switched digital video refers to a network scheme for distributing digital video by managing network bandwidth resources. Switched video sends the digital video in a more efficient manner so that additional programs may be available for users using he freed up bandwidth. One of the core technologies that can make advanced advertising in linear programming a reality for cable operators.” (Source: BigBand Networks)

3 : “A telecommunications industry term for a network scheme for distributing digital video via a cable. Switched video sends the digital video in a more efficient manner so that additional uses may be made of the freed up bandwidth. The scheme applies to digital video distribution on cable TV systems using QAM channels, or on IPTV systems.” (Source: Wikipedia)

Please refer to the CIMM Lexicon online at http://www.cimm-us.org/lexicon.htm for additional information on these and other terms.