A Cross-Layer Design to Wireless/Mobile Video Streaming

Abstract

This chapter introduces a cross-layer approach to wireless/mobile video streaming system design to meet its flexibility and adaptability requirements. On one hand, with the rapid development of wireless/mobile communication infrastructure, wireless video applications are gaining more popularity. On the other hand, there exist many new challenges due to the inherent characteristics of wireless networks and communication systems. This is especially true for video delivery under a stringent time constraint. To address these issues, flexibility and adaptability of communication systems, which are the objectives of cross-layer design, have been extensively studied for performance enhancement. In this chapter, we begin with the motivation of the cross-layer approach, which is needed in response to several challenges of efficient wireless/mobile video streaming. Then, some fundamental issues of the cross-layer design are introduced followed by video-specific system requirements. Furthermore, we examine a couple of cross-layer design ideas proposed in the past. Finally, we consider issues associated with the practical employment along with software simulations, and demonstrate the benefit of the cross-layer approach.