Multi-stream video transport over MPLS networks

Abstract

This paper presents a study on traffic management for transporting progressive video streams over multiprotocol label switching (MPLS) networks. Based on the variety of MPLS service models, a unique multi-stream video transport scheme is proposed. A 3-D subband video coder is used in generating the source data traffic. A special feature of this video coder is that the coded bit stream can be easily segmented into sub-streams with different quality of service (QoS) requirements. After source coding and segmentation, multiple streams are formed. Upon their entering into the network, they are labeled with different forwarding equivalence classes (FECs). Specific label switch paths (LSPs) are selected by the MPLS protocols to achieve the desired quality levels. The proposed scheme is studied under the metrics such as the end-to-end video delivery quality, the bandwidth consumption and the pricing of the service. Extensive simulations have been conducted in this study, and some of the results are presented in this paper.