Frequently Asked Questions - Operators
- Is Backchannelmedia supported on OCAP?
- What are the bandwidth implications of the Backchannelmedia offering?
- I would like my subscribers to be able to fulfill their click-throughs on my website. Is it possible to host a private labeled version of the Consumer Portal?
- How do operators make money by working with Backchannelmedia?
Is Backchannelmedia supported on OCAP?
Yes. Backchannelmedia has developed a client application that supports OCAP (CableLabs OpenCable Applications Platform 2.0 --- also known as “tru2way”) set-top boxes. An EBIF (CableLabs Enhanced TV Binary Interchange Format ) version of the software has also been developed. Backchannelmedia is also prepared to support native legacy cable platforms such as Motorola / GuideWorks / VOD Client, Scientific-Atlanta / PowerTV / SARA, and other operator specific profiles. For Direct Broadcast Satellite (DBS) operators, Backchannelmedia has developed an OpenTV based application, and is prepared to support other interactive TV middleware platforms.
What are the bandwidth implications of the Backchannelmedia offering?
The Backchannelmedia solution and the encoding technology specifically have been architected for minimal impact on the existing infrastructure. Typically, the downstream bandwidth utilization is 100 bytes per second while a “clickable moment” is associated with a video stream. The typical return path bandwidth utilization is approximately 600 bytes for each viewer “click” response (and a nominal frequency of less than 1 response per minute).
I would like my subscribers to be able to fulfill their click-throughs on my website. Is it possible to host a private labeled version of the Consumer Portal?
Yes. The Backchannelmedia Portal is just one example of a front-end interface to our response database. Operators are encouraged to work with Backchannelmedia so that consumers can follow up with content and advertisements they have expressed an interest in, with as little disruption to their existing behavior as possible. Whether through an operators web site, an SMS message sent to a cell phone, or a third-party portal, Backchannelmedia's partners are empowered to either private label our Consumer Portal application or develop one of their own that will meet the particular needs and habits of their subscribers.
How do operators make money by working with Backchannelmedia?
Operators make money in the same way they always have -- by delivering premier content and value-added services to their subscribers. Backchannelmedia helps operators by enhancing the value of the content they deliver and also by providing technology that enables a deeper relationship with the subscribers, content owners and advertisers that are vital to their business.