Abstract: A system for using a low-level packet protocol to accelerate content delivery in a non-routable network is provided. The system includes a transport stream processor for receiving a multiple program transport stream (e.g., in MPEG-2 format) and extracting a data program stream from the transport stream. The data program stream includes audio/video content in a second format (e.g., in MPEG-4 format). A packet generator packetizes the content in the data program stream for delivery over an Internet protocol (IP)-based local area network. Further features, such as quality of service management, are also provided.

Abstract: A simulation system is provided for emulating media access control (MAC) messages that are exchanged between a headend controller and one or more set top boxes. The simulation system can be used to test the low-level functionality of the set top boxes. The system includes a headend simulator that includes a MAC emulator state machine. The MAC emulator state machine implements a cable MAC over an Ethernet network interface.