Multimedia Architecture - Laboratorio (2007/2008)

Learning outcomes

This class aims at providing the elements to understand the issues related to the design and management of systems for the processing and transmission of multimedia data (speech, audio, and video).

After a brief review of digital coding techniques for speech, audio, images and video, the foundamentals of multimedia transmission over IP will be described, the main application scenarios and the most important parameters for Quality of Service will be defined and, finally, the main standard protocols for streaming, videoconference and telephony over IP will be described. Furthermore, some robust coding techniques for multimedia transmission will be introduced.
Finally, the advanced techniques for the design of multimedia-enabled networks will be described: multicast, Differentiated Services, Integrated Services, and Multiprotocol Label Switching.

Required background

To properly understand the content of this class, basic topics from previous classes are required: Computer Architectures, Operating Systems, and Computer Networks.

Practice in ESD lab (12 hours)

* Use of tools for network simulation and analysis
* Implementation of a prototype for speech transmission over IP and its validation through network simulation and analysis tools
* Experimental assessment of the level of Quality of Service and the corresponding level of perceptual quality
* Examples of use of advanced techniques for network design and experimental assessment of their effect
* Installation and configuration of a VoIP switch.

Examination consists of:

1) written test with questions about the theory and practice part of the class and numerical exercises
2) project and corresponding documentation (groups of max 2 people)

The final result (over 30 points) is computed summing the result of both the written test and the project (which contributes with max 3 points).