DABCAST implementation covered multidimensional aspects: hardware design, software development and integration, cloud services administration, telco infrastructure operation.
All elements of DABCAST platform have been designed and developed successfully:
- Virtual Studio (VS) has been integrated, tested and deployed in the cloud together with the cloud-optimized Multiplexer unit (MUX).
- Integrated Transmitter Unit (hardware module) has been designed and implemented.
- Transmitter unit (TX) named DABCAST DTX050 was professionally certified.
- All elements (VS, MUX nad TX) are being overseen by a Monitoring unit, which automatically verifies that all DAB+ services are served as requested.
Within the project the network for early adopter demostration has been built and validated.
To perform tests and demonstration with future customers, the administration rules have been defined (including signal coverage, emission power levels and high - availability). Since early stage of the project implementation, the prototype of the DABCAST system has been introduced, which was periodically updated and iterated until the release of complete RaaS architecture. The solution was assesed by users (testers), their recommendations for improvements have been addressed and confirmed in final trials with customers.
DABCAST RaaS proved to be unique and challenging concept.
In parallel to the technical implementations, both Communication Plan and Business Innovation Plan were prepared. Communication Plan proposed tools and actions, which were assumed to strengthen company image as highly innovative (by reception of the SMEI) and boost the presence of BCAST (as company) and DABCAST (as product) in the media. The implementation of Communication Plan went extremely positive (more than 200 posts in social media, 40 articles, 1.5MLN of readership reach and more than 1.1MLN EUR of advertisement equivalent).
The Business Innovation Plan, supported by H2020 coach, outlined strategy and plans for the DABCAST product commercialization. Customers demanded demonstration of the services. Hence, from early weeks of the project, we have set up cloud demo environment allowing us to constantly monitor the development and update the solution (the approach was called “walking skeleton”). The initial concept eventually transformed into trial network and demo services in Poland, Italy, Germany, and on Tenerife. Also Intellectual Property Rights process was performed, allowing to secure the IP assets like trademarks, utility patterns, graphical interfaces, etc.
Successful execution and delivery of the project makes DABCAST solution well-prepared and well-tested for international commercial implementations.
