A channel subscription-based node configuration for multi-channel video streaming systems in overlay multicast networks

Abstract

In developing a multicast-based application, the selection of an appropriate routing algorithm is the key factor in determining whether or not it efficiently makes use of network resources. Consequently, overlay multicast protocols are introduced specifically to address this issue. In addition, a multichannel video streaming system needs to economize network usage because the increasing number of users may have detrimental effects on the streaming system and network. Therefore, we can surmise that increasing network loads are addressed by applying an overlay multicast protocol to a multi-channel video streaming system. However, it is difficult to apply overlay multicast protocols to a multi-channel video streaming system without change; in that an overlay multicast protocol is based on the assumption that it transmits the same data. A video streaming system that supports multiple channels may transfer different kinds of data to each client in specific domains such as: a surveillance system or a company broadcasting system. Therefore, in this thesis, we propose a node configuration algorithm based on channel subscription information. The node configuration algorithm includes a join and leave/repair procedure like TBCP [1] or HMTP [8]. However, unlike TBCP or HMTP, a channel subscription-based node configuration algorithm makes it possible to reflect channel subscription information in configuring members. Additionally, we provide examples of various cases of join or leave/repair procedures. Consequently, the node configuration algorithm makes a video streaming system support to deliver multiple video channels in overlay multicast networks. Therefore, the algorithm makes it possible to efficiently utilize network resources and it can be applied to multi-channel video streaming systems.