Qtv Backend
The Qtv Backend server is the heart of the network management functionally and gives BroadQ the flexibility to deploy new services and functionality to new CPE solutions, as well as individual users, groups or all users.
The Qtv Backend consists of a high-end server farm located on multiple backbones to manage the content and providers (channels) that are accessible by individual users through the Qtv User Interface. The Qtv User Interface can be personalized by each user, selecting content providers, preferences, keywords and more. The Backend maintains the online user data and automatically updates the Qtv User Interface as the content changes.
Provider Web Service
A Web service interfaces with the content provider's database to maintain a current metadata record within the Qtv Backend database. Changes to the content provider's database are automatically reflected in the Qtv Backend database and the Qtv User Interface. Each content provider manages the price, information and other metadata that are presented to the user. This enables content providers to implement any business model, from advertising supported, subscription and pay-per-view, to yet to be created business models. The content and business model is left to the market to develop.
The Qtv Backend also enables content micropublishing. Content providers can define specific lists, regions or demographics for their content. Qtv also allows users to opt-in into certain content. For example, users could opt in to access alumni events, like football games, by entering a content code into the Qtv User Interface. Most consumers will not be interested in the myriad of micro-published content that will be available, so this offers users a simple method for specific users to access the content without overwhelming all other users.
The Qtv Backend server does not host or deliver the content. Only the content metadata information is maintained on the Backend. The content provider uses their existing delivery solution to deliver content to the user, including streaming, downloading, progressive downloading or peer-to-peer downloading. A download manager running within the Qtv CPE manages the content delivery process.
User Accounts
Individual user accounts are created during the installation process. The Qtv Backend manages the user information, such as locale, age, gender, content settings, preferences, usage habits and parental controls. This information is collected in the aggregate and can be used to understand the general viewing patterns of specific demographics. The demographic information can also be used to help content providers deliver relevant advertising to users. This allows content providers to charge a higher fee for targeted TV media impressions. BroadQ is also developing the capability to deliver advertising within the Qtv User Interface.
In addition, the Qtv Backend maintains information on the specific CPE solution. This information is used to determine what content is accessible by the user. For example, if the CPE solution is not capable of playing high definition (HD) content, then HD content is not be displayed to the consumer. The CPE information also allows us to minimize fraud by confirming that the content is being delivered to a specific location.
Unified Billing System
The Qtv Backend will also include the Unified Billing System that simplifies the consumer purchasing process. BroadQ bills the consumer using a merchant service using the payment method selected by the consumer. Current payment methods include all major credit cards, PayPal and direct account withdrawal from the bank. The merchant service will pay each provider directly so that there is no delay in the provider receiving payment.