Online UPnP A/V Device Database for Quick and Easy Capability Checking

Abstract

Creating and customizing ubiquitous media networks with UPnP A/V compliant components from different manufacturer (brands) is quite a common task, however, poses a few problems. First, it is not possible at time of purchase of such devices to check whether or not all the devices will interoperate as desired. Second, and even more critical is the fact that manufacturer declare their products "UPnP" certified, even if not the complete function set specified mandatory is implemented. Third, it is also not possible to find or identify devices implementing a certain required function effectively. In this work we present our initiative toward a central database of UPnP A/V devices, allowing interested persons to assess the function coverage (i. e., grade of implementation) of a certain device according to the UPnP A/V standard. By providing a client-side device scanner coupled with a server-side repository -- both available on the Internet -- any person can contribute to the project by submitting information from UPnP devices in his/her local network and can browse the central database for device specific characteristics. Available UPnP A/V information includes implementation details of Media Server, Media Renderer, and simple players, as well as information about the level of function coverage of a certain device or service class. This information can be used by developers or end users to select devices matching exactly their requirements or to exclude devices lacking implementation of a necessary function.