Live Encoder

The Live Encoder is a core component for Aquila Streaming & Aquila Broadcast​.
It is the distribution encoder for Internet, IP and Broadcast TV.

A list of key functional blocks is shown below, from Input to Output:

Live Encoder: Functional view

Input: the encoder receives a signal to ingest the video. There are several different ways to ingest the video signal.

Decoding: the input can be optionally decoded using a variety of audio and video codecs.

Pre-processing: once the input is decoded, it is possible to apply a range of pre-processing functions. This improves the quality of the signal or adapt the video before it is encoded.

Video & Audio encoding: after pre-processing the video, it is passed to the encoding block which supports various types of video and audio codecs. It is also possible to simply pass-through the audio meaning that it is not re-encoded.

Media composing – IP: the media composing module is a specific input type which interfaces with MediaKind Prisma for content edition. It is possible to schedule, start and stop the following operations: blackout, logo insertion, crawler insertion, switch to an alternative live input, or switch to TS playlist.

Post-processing: once the video and audio are encoded, there are additional post-processing features that can be used, for example SCTE-35 and SCTE-104 for content replacement and advertising.

Output: finally, the encoder will generate the required output. Typically this will be an MPEG Transport stream over IP, either CBR or adaptive bit rates with FEC implementation. It is also possible to address different types of networks, for example it can support redundant IP outputs.

Control & Monitoring: This block is provided by MediaKind Controller. It provides a user interface for the operators to configure and monitor the services.