Latency Considerations
Latency defines the delay in which the video stream will be delivered to the endpoint. This delay is essentially a buffer that is used for additional processing, thereby improving the quality of video stream. The latency should be considered based on the importance of immediacy. For example, if the video requires interaction (e.g. between a reporter in the field and an anchor in the studio), the latency should be set to a minimum so that the interaction does not suffer from any delay.
Latency can vary from tens of milli-seconds to several seconds.
Zixi protocol can start providing benefit from one frame (30ms), while increasing the latency will provide more robustness for the error-recovery.
Optimizing latency is complicated by the fact that all networks experience fluctuations in transmission speeds and changes in routing. Zixi’s Dynamic Latency adjusts latency dynamically in response to changing network conditions by utilizing two dynamically sized buffers: the Recovery Buffer and the Distribution Buffer. These buffers adjust their sizes based on network performance, allowing the latency of the stream to be dynamically optimized. The ratio between these buffers determines the latency, ensuring gradual adjustments to prevent overwhelming decode devices.
Dynamic Latency proves beneficial in various network scenarios:
- Internet Networks: Mitigates volatility in the most dynamic network environments.
- Internal Networks: Adapts to dynamically changing routes, whether manual or automatic.
- FAST Channels: Enhances flexibility in latency management.
- Dynamic Latency can be applied only to Zixi inputs (push or pull)
- Dynamic Latency is not suitable for use cases such as sports broadcasts, where consistent latency is essential
To apply Dynamic Latency to a Push or Pull input stream, simply check the Minimize Latency checkbox in the input configuration (when you add or edit the input).
