Method for reliable real-time multimedia streaming

Abstract

A method is provided for reliable real-time data streaming in a multimedia delivery system. The system is implemented using a real-time protocol that is based on the well-known Real-time Transport Protocol (RTP) suite which provides a framework for implementing near real-time reliable data delivery over non real-time unreliable data link layer technologies (e.g., Ethernet). These protocols provide near real-time reliable or best feasible data streaming while utilizing best effort unreliable network services (e.g., Internet). Under the Reliable protocol, an entire data block, including any missing or lost data packets, is reconstructed from all of the individual data packets through the use of a selective negative acknowledgement (NACK) mechanism. In contrast, the Best Feasible protocol sacrifices some of the data packet's reliability by not retransmitting “late” packets. An additional timing parameter encapsulated in the NACK message will facilitate the determination of whether it is “feasible” to retransmit a missing data packet. A real-time identification technique has been incorporated into the format of each transmitted data packet that allows for the identification of both its sender and intended recipient(s) without having to call an underlying socket specific function.