Jitter-free probability bounds for video streaming over random VBR channel

In this paper, we study the optimal streaming of variable bit-rate (VBR) videos over random VBR channels. We define the main performance metric of a streaming system as the probability of un-interrupted video presentation, or jitter-free probability. Previous literature has described solutions to estimate the jitter-free probability by assuming either independence in the encoded data process or simplistic channel models. In this work, we present an novel analytical framework, which requires only the maximum channel bit rate and some statistical information of an arbitrary VBR channel, to bound the probability of jitter-free playback under the constraint of initial playback delay and receiver buffer size. Both the infinite and finite buffer cases are considered. This technique is then applied to investigate streaming over a wireless system modelled by an extended Gilbert channel with ARQ transmission control. Experimental results with MPEG-4 VBR encoded videos show that the proposed analysis provides close bounds to the actual system performance. Finally, we show that the proposed analysis provides a theoretical foundation to quantify the tradeoff between initial playback delay, receiver buffer size, and the jitter free probability for a general class of VBR video streaming over random VBR channels.