Design Issues for the Generic Stream Encapsulation (GSE) of IP Datagrams over DVB-S2

The DVB-S2 standard has brought an unprecedented degree of novelty and flexibility in the way IP datagrams or other network level packets can be transmitted over DVB satellite links, with the introduction of an IP-friendly link layer -the continuous Generic Streams- and the adaptive combination of advanced error coding, modulation and spectrum management techniques. Recently approved by the DVB, the Generic Stream Encapsulation (GSE) used for carrying IP datagrams over DVB- S2 implements solutions stemmed from a design rationale quite different from the one behind IP encapsulation schemes over its predecessor DVB-S. This paper highlights GSE's original design choices under the perspective of DVB-S2's innovative features and possibilities.