Network Media Synchronization via NTP and RTP
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current systems for multimedia content distribution across personal computers and conventional entertainment devices face challenges in synchronization and compatibility, leading to suboptimal performance and user experience due to differences in playback latency and hardware compatibility.
Innovation Solution
A network media delivery system that includes a host device and client devices with wireless network interfaces, using Network Time Protocol (NTP) for clock synchronization and Real-Time Transport Protocol (RTP) for synchronized media delivery, along with mechanisms for packet retransmission to handle clock drift and lost packets, ensuring synchronized playback across multiple devices.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If personal computers are used as multimedia repositories and playback devices, then consumers can access and store multimedia content conveniently, but the performance and fidelity of playback still lag behind conventional entertainment devices
Solution Approach 1:
The system divides the multimedia playback function into two separate components: a personal computer for content storage and management, and conventional entertainment devices for high-fidelity playback. This segmentation allows each component to excel at its specialized function while working together through network connectivity.
2Reliability
If closed systems from a single vendor are used for home networking, then device compatibility and integration are ensured, but consumer flexibility and ability to mix components from different vendors are limited
Solution Approach 1:
The system implements universal compatibility by enabling personal computers and conventional entertainment devices from different vendors to communicate and work together through standardized network protocols. This allows consumers to mix and match components from various manufacturers while maintaining reliable integration.
3Adaptability or versatility
If multimedia content is transmitted across a home network to multiple devices, then consumers can access content at different locations, but synchronization issues and echo effects may occur
Solution Approach 1:
The system employs feedback mechanisms where entertainment devices report their playback status and timing information back to the personal computer. This allows the system to monitor and adjust transmission timing dynamically, preventing synchronization issues and echo effects while enabling multi-location access.
Data Source
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AI summary
A network media system, comprising: means for transferring media data between a plurality of devices; means for transferring time information between the devices; means for synchronizing clocks at each of the devices based on the time information; means for processing transferred media data into processed media at each of the devices; and means for presenting processed media in a synchronized manner at each of the devices.