New program streams visual information to desktops

  • Published
  • By Senior Airman Allen Pollard
  • 9th RW Public Affairs
BEALE AIR FORCE BASE, Calif., --  Video streaming sites such as Netflix, Hulu, and YouTube allow people to watch on demand content with their personal computers. The 9th Communication Squadron has implemented that trend with Internet Protocol Video Distribution System or IPTV.

IPTV is a system allowing the users to view media from broadcast cable channels through their computer using the base network.

"IPTV will provide a similar service like cable TV without the cost of a cable drop we currently incur," said 1st Lieutenant Mark Morris, 9th Communication Squadron deputy commander of plans and resources flight. "Air Combat Command has directed a cut on the cable TV services budget, from approximately $96,000 per year to approximately $2,500 per year."

IPTV is projected to cost only $1,200 per year. By cutting the need for activation, installation and individual cable subscriptions, and adding Set Top Boxes, IPTV is slated to save more than $93,000 per year.

"The set top boxes are very useful," said Morris. "The box doesn't require an operating system, program patches, or updates like a computer."

Morris added, units who currently have cable television drops can connect a STB directly to a television set without the purchase of a computer for continued programming.

ACC provided Beale with 20 STBs which were distributed throughout the base, additional STBs can be purchased.

The following programs are available on IPTV: ABC, CNN, ESPN, Fox News, HLN, NBC, and the Weather Channel. Additionally, local content will be provided by Beale's Public Affairs Office.

These channels allow all Team Beale the ability to stay informed on current events.

"It's important for Airmen to know what is going on around the world," said Morris. "World events impact several facets of their lives."

To access IPTV via government computers visit http://bealeiptv.acc.af.mil/#/assets.php

For more information about IPTV contact the 9th Communication Squadron at 634-3470.