Multiplexing
A multiplexer (mux) combines multiple audio, video, and data streams into a single MPEG-2 Transport Stream (MPEG-2 TS). In broadcast and headend environments, multiplexing is how multiple channels from separate sources are consolidated into one output for delivery over cable, IPTV, or satellite.
MK.IO Beam's Multiplexer takes transport stream inputs from live encoders or other sources and assembles them into a combined output for delivery over IP or ASI. It supports re-multiplexing and de-multiplexing of IP input streams, with PID remapping, PID filtering, service information (SI/PSI) management, and output adaptation for a range of network environments. Stream assembly and timing alignment are handled automatically.
Input redundancy
Input sources can be configured with redundancy. If the active source becomes unhealthy, the Multiplexer automatically switches to a secondary source. When secondary sources are monitored, the Multiplexer checks their health before switching, ensuring it only moves to a source in a good state.
Statistical multiplexing
Standard multiplexing assigns a fixed bitrate to each program in the output transport stream. Statistical multiplexing (statmux) improves on this by dynamically sharing available bandwidth across a pool of encoding services based on encoding complexity at any given moment. Channels with complex scenes receive more bitrate; simpler scenes return bandwidth to the pool.
MK.IO Beam's Multiplexer supports statmux through pools. Each pool has a defined bitrate budget and works with Live Encoder services configured as statmux slaves. The Multiplexer acts as the statmux master, coordinating bitrate allocation across all participating encoders. See Advanced rate control for how Live Encoder services participate in a statmux pool.
Common use cases
- Assembling multiple channels for cable or IPTV headend distribution.
- Combining live-encoded services into a single transport stream for satellite uplink.
- Remultiplexing incoming transport streams for downstream processing or conditioning.
To start configuring a Multiplexer service, see Configure the Multiplexer.