Thread Subject: Proposal for closed captions & timed text

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From: Schomburg, Paul
Date: Tue, Aug 28 2007 9:10 AM
Subject: Proposal for closed captions & timed text

Folks: Here is a proposal to provide clarity the requirements for (1)
other digital video source devices, and (2) personal video display
devices. We look forward to discussing this on today's call.



Best regards, Paul



-------BEGIN-------

3. Equipment of this type...

Other digital video source products without broadcast reception
capability, such as playback products for removable media (e.g. optical
disc, tape, flash memory, etc.), IP-enabled playback products for
downloaded or streaming video content, and media player software, that
is procured for the purpose of displaying video on a DTV display or
monitor with a screen size greater than 13 inches.



Uses this standard...

CEA 708 or timed text with functionality equivalent [or comparable] to
CEA-708 (see end-note for definition of functional equivalent)



To provide these functions:

- Pass CEA-708 caption data, when available, to the caption
decoding circuitry of DTV displays

OR

- Decode caption data or timed text, when available, and pass
a decoded ("open-captioned") video signal to the DTV display or monitor.




4. Equipment of this type...

Personal video display products without broadcast reception capability
with an integrated display less than 13 inches. [Examples: Portable
DVD players, Apple iPods, cell phones, etc."]



Uses this standard...

CEA 708 or timed text with functionality equivalent [or comparable] to
CEA 708 (see end-note for definition of functional equivalent)



To provide these functions...

- Decode caption data or timed text, when available, for
viewing on the integrated display unless not readily achievable.

-------END-------



Rationale: It appropriate to leave the decision to the government
agency as to the type of content and purpose for which the device will
be used.

1. CEA-708 is required for content originally authored for broadcasting
or transmission in an MPEG transport stream. Such content may
thereafter be provided via prerecorded media or downloaded/streamed from
the Internet. Both players of prerecorded media (e.g. DVD, Blu-Ray,
HD-DVD, video tape, etc.) and IP-enabled media players and associated
software will require this capability if they are used to display such
content.

2. Timed text is required for content not authored for broadcasting or
transmission in an MPEG transport stream, but that may be provided via
prerecorded media or downloaded/streamed from the Internet. Such timed
text formats should provide functionality equivalent [or comparable] to
CEA-708 to enable author and/or user control of fonts, background
transparency, and location of text on screen so as to provide the most
accessible viewing experience.



End Note: TEITAC definition of "Functional Equivalent" to CEA 708



Equivalent text display functionalities must:



* support caption placement control by caption authors for any position
within the TV safe area.



* support standard, large, and small caption sizes and must allow the
caption author to choose a size and allow the viewer to choose an
alternative size.



* support eight font variations. Caption authors may specify one of
these eight font styles to be used to write caption text. Equivalents
must include the ability for users to choose among the eight fonts. The
equivalent must display the font chosen by the caption author unless the
user chooses a different font.



* support the eight font styles defined as follows: default
(undefined), monospaced with serifs (similar to Courier), proportionally
spaced with serifs (similar to Times New Roman), monospaced without
serifs (similar to Helvetica Monospaced), proportionally spaced without
serifs (similar to Arial and Swiss), casual font type (similar to Dom
and Impress), cursive font type (similar to Coronet and Marigold), and
small capitals (similar to Engravers Gothic).



* support author and user choice of eight character foreground and eight
character background colors: white, black, red, green, blue, yellow,
magenta and cyan).



* support author and user selection of character and background opacity
options: SOLID, TRANSLUCENT, TRANSPARENT [FLASH option deleted]



* support options for altering the appearance of caption character
edges.



* support the authoring and selection of the six caption services, but
information from only one service need be displayed at a given time.



* include an option that permits a user to choose a setting that will
display captions as intended by the caption provider (a default).
Equivalents must also include an option that allows a viewer's chosen
settings to remain until the viewer chooses to alter these settings,
including during periods when the video source device is powered off.



Multimedia content creation products and/or software must:



* support the creation of equivalent text display functionalities as
listed above



* support interoperability and conversion between other common caption
formats such as CEA 608, CEA 708, and Timed Text (e.g. DFXP).

From: Geoff Freed
Date: Tue, Aug 28 2007 9:55 AM
Subject: Re: Proposal for closed captions & timed text

Hi, Paul:

Thanks for submitting this proposal. One area of concern that I see
is the 708 equivalency requirement for certain devices, like IP
players or non-broadcast personal media players:

> CEA 708 or timed text with functionality equivalent [or comparable]
> to CEA 708 (see end-note for definition of functional equivalent)

Some, but not all, of the 708 functional equivalents can be
accomplished in the current text-display formats used by media
players, such as QText, SAMI, RealText and DFXP. That's one
problem. Another is that you're requiring media players like
QuickTime, WMP RealPlayer and Flash to include controls that permit
users to switch styles that provide 708-equivalent behavior. My
guess is that this is going to be difficult for player manufacturers
to support, but I don't want to speak for them. However, I'd like
to hear if Andrew, Sean and Dave Singer have any opinions about this.

Geoff/NCAM




On Aug 28, 2007, at 11:09 AM, Schomburg, Paul wrote:

> Folks: Here is a proposal to provide clarity the requirements for
> (1) other digital video source devices, and (2) personal video
> display devices. We look forward to discussing this on today’s call.
>
>
>
> Best regards, Paul
>
>
>
> -------BEGIN-------
>
> 3. Equipment of this type…
>
> Other digital video source products without broadcast reception
> capability, such as playback products for removable media (e.g.
> optical disc, tape, flash memory, etc.), IP-enabled playback
> products for downloaded or streaming video content, and media
> player software, that is procured for the purpose of displaying
> video on a DTV display or monitor with a screen size greater than
> 13 inches.
>
>
>
> Uses this standard…
>
> CEA 708 or timed text with functionality equivalent [or comparable]
> to CEA-708 (see end-note for definition of functional equivalent)
>
>
>
> To provide these functions:
>
> - Pass CEA-708 caption data, when available, to the
> caption decoding circuitry of DTV displays
>
> OR
>
> - Decode caption data or timed text, when available, and
> pass a decoded ("open-captioned") video signal to the DTV display
> or monitor.
>
>
>
> 4. Equipment of this type...
>
> Personal video display products without broadcast reception
> capability with an integrated display less than 13 inches.
> [Examples: Portable DVD players, Apple iPods, cell phones, etc."]
>
>
>
> Uses this standard…
>
> CEA 708 or timed text with functionality equivalent [or comparable]
> to CEA 708 (see end-note for definition of functional equivalent)
>
>
>
> To provide these functions…
>
> - Decode caption data or timed text, when available, for
> viewing on the integrated display unless not readily achievable.
>
> -------END-------
>
>
>
> Rationale: It appropriate to leave the decision to the government
> agency as to the type of content and purpose for which the device
> will be used.
>
> 1. CEA-708 is required for content originally authored for
> broadcasting or transmission in an MPEG transport stream. Such
> content may thereafter be provided via prerecorded media or
> downloaded/streamed from the Internet. Both players of prerecorded
> media (e.g. DVD, Blu-Ray, HD-DVD, video tape, etc.) and IP-enabled
> media players and associated software will require this capability
> if they are used to display such content.
>
> 2. Timed text is required for content not authored for
> broadcasting or transmission in an MPEG transport stream, but that
> may be provided via prerecorded media or downloaded/streamed from
> the Internet. Such timed text formats should provide functionality
> equivalent [or comparable] to CEA-708 to enable author and/or user
> control of fonts, background transparency, and location of text on
> screen so as to provide the most accessible viewing experience.
>
>
>
> End Note: TEITAC definition of "Functional Equivalent" to CEA 708
>
>
>
> Equivalent text display functionalities must:
>
>
>
> • support caption placement control by caption authors for any
> position within the TV safe area.
>
>
>
> • support standard, large, and small caption sizes and must allow
> the caption author to choose a size and allow the viewer to choose
> an alternative size.
>
>
>
> • support eight font variations. Caption authors may specify one of
> these eight font styles to be used to write caption text.
> Equivalents must include the ability for users to choose among the
> eight fonts. The equivalent must display the font chosen by the
> caption author unless the user chooses a different font.
>
>
>
> • support the eight font styles defined as follows: default
> (undefined), monospaced with serifs (similar to Courier),
> proportionally spaced with serifs (similar to Times New Roman),
> monospaced without serifs (similar to Helvetica Monospaced),
> proportionally spaced without serifs (similar to Arial and Swiss),
> casual font type (similar to Dom and Impress), cursive font type
> (similar to Coronet and Marigold), and small capitals (similar to
> Engravers Gothic).
>
>
>
> • support author and user choice of eight character foreground and
> eight character background colors: white, black, red, green, blue,
> yellow, magenta and cyan).
>
>
>
> • support author and user selection of character and background
> opacity options: SOLID, TRANSLUCENT, TRANSPARENT [FLASH option
> deleted]
>
>
>
> • support options for altering the appearance of caption character
> edges.
>
>
>
> • support the authoring and selection of the six caption services,
> but information from only one service need be displayed at a given
> time.
>
>
>
> • include an option that permits a user to choose a setting that
> will display captions as intended by the caption provider (a
> default). Equivalents must also include an option that allows a
> viewer's chosen settings to remain until the viewer chooses to
> alter these settings, including during periods when the video
> source device is powered off.
>
>
>
> Multimedia content creation products and/or software must:
>
>
>
> • support the creation of equivalent text display functionalities
> as listed above
>
>
>
> • support interoperability and conversion between other common
> caption formats such as CEA 608, CEA 708, and Timed Text (e.g. DFXP).
>
>
>
>
>
>

From: Sean Hayes
Date: Tue, Aug 28 2007 10:05 AM
Subject: Re: Proposal for closed captions & timed text

There are two parts to the idea of 708 equivalence. The first is the data encoded in the captions themselves, I think most of the common formats have broad equivalence to the coding functionality of 708; SAMI and DFXP, the two I'm most familiar with, do.

The other half are the FCC player rules (which are not part of 708) which require user adjustment/replacement of these. No other player (software or hardware) that I am aware of allows for this; it's a unique feature for US DTV at this point (Larry or Geoff correct me if I'm wrong here). While I believe asking for this to be a feature of all captioning systems is a worthy goal, I don't believe its readily achievable in the short term.

Sean Hayes
Incubation Lab
Accessibility Business Unit
Microsoft

Office: +44 118 909 5867,
Mobile: +44 7875 091385


-----Original Message-----
From: = EMAIL ADDRESS REMOVED = [mailto: = EMAIL ADDRESS REMOVED = ] On Behalf Of Geoff Freed
Sent: 28 August 2007 16:52
To: TEITAC Audio/Video Subcommittee
Subject: Re: [teitac-video] Proposal for closed captions & timed text


Hi, Paul:

Thanks for submitting this proposal. One area of concern that I see
is the 708 equivalency requirement for certain devices, like IP
players or non-broadcast personal media players:

> CEA 708 or timed text with functionality equivalent [or comparable]
> to CEA 708 (see end-note for definition of functional equivalent)

Some, but not all, of the 708 functional equivalents can be
accomplished in the current text-display formats used by media
players, such as QText, SAMI, RealText and DFXP. That's one
problem. Another is that you're requiring media players like
QuickTime, WMP RealPlayer and Flash to include controls that permit
users to switch styles that provide 708-equivalent behavior. My
guess is that this is going to be difficult for player manufacturers
to support, but I don't want to speak for them. However, I'd like
to hear if Andrew, Sean and Dave Singer have any opinions about this.

Geoff/NCAM




On Aug 28, 2007, at 11:09 AM, Schomburg, Paul wrote:

> Folks: Here is a proposal to provide clarity the requirements for
> (1) other digital video source devices, and (2) personal video
> display devices. We look forward to discussing this on today's call.
>
>
>
> Best regards, Paul
>
>
>
> -------BEGIN-------
>
> 3. Equipment of this type...
>
> Other digital video source products without broadcast reception
> capability, such as playback products for removable media (e.g.
> optical disc, tape, flash memory, etc.), IP-enabled playback
> products for downloaded or streaming video content, and media
> player software, that is procured for the purpose of displaying
> video on a DTV display or monitor with a screen size greater than
> 13 inches.
>
>
>
> Uses this standard...
>
> CEA 708 or timed text with functionality equivalent [or comparable]
> to CEA-708 (see end-note for definition of functional equivalent)
>
>
>
> To provide these functions:
>
> - Pass CEA-708 caption data, when available, to the
> caption decoding circuitry of DTV displays
>
> OR
>
> - Decode caption data or timed text, when available, and
> pass a decoded ("open-captioned") video signal to the DTV display
> or monitor.
>
>
>
> 4. Equipment of this type...
>
> Personal video display products without broadcast reception
> capability with an integrated display less than 13 inches.
> [Examples: Portable DVD players, Apple iPods, cell phones, etc."]
>
>
>
> Uses this standard...
>
> CEA 708 or timed text with functionality equivalent [or comparable]
> to CEA 708 (see end-note for definition of functional equivalent)
>
>
>
> To provide these functions...
>
> - Decode caption data or timed text, when available, for
> viewing on the integrated display unless not readily achievable.
>
> -------END-------
>
>
>
> Rationale: It appropriate to leave the decision to the government
> agency as to the type of content and purpose for which the device
> will be used.
>
> 1. CEA-708 is required for content originally authored for
> broadcasting or transmission in an MPEG transport stream. Such
> content may thereafter be provided via prerecorded media or
> downloaded/streamed from the Internet. Both players of prerecorded
> media (e.g. DVD, Blu-Ray, HD-DVD, video tape, etc.) and IP-enabled
> media players and associated software will require this capability
> if they are used to display such content.
>
> 2. Timed text is required for content not authored for
> broadcasting or transmission in an MPEG transport stream, but that
> may be provided via prerecorded media or downloaded/streamed from
> the Internet. Such timed text formats should provide functionality
> equivalent [or comparable] to CEA-708 to enable author and/or user
> control of fonts, background transparency, and location of text on
> screen so as to provide the most accessible viewing experience.
>
>
>
> End Note: TEITAC definition of "Functional Equivalent" to CEA 708
>
>
>
> Equivalent text display functionalities must:
>
>
>
> * support caption placement control by caption authors for any
> position within the TV safe area.
>
>
>
> * support standard, large, and small caption sizes and must allow
> the caption author to choose a size and allow the viewer to choose
> an alternative size.
>
>
>
> * support eight font variations. Caption authors may specify one of
> these eight font styles to be used to write caption text.
> Equivalents must include the ability for users to choose among the
> eight fonts. The equivalent must display the font chosen by the
> caption author unless the user chooses a different font.
>
>
>
> * support the eight font styles defined as follows: default
> (undefined), monospaced with serifs (similar to Courier),
> proportionally spaced with serifs (similar to Times New Roman),
> monospaced without serifs (similar to Helvetica Monospaced),
> proportionally spaced without serifs (similar to Arial and Swiss),
> casual font type (similar to Dom and Impress), cursive font type
> (similar to Coronet and Marigold), and small capitals (similar to
> Engravers Gothic).
>
>
>
> * support author and user choice of eight character foreground and
> eight character background colors: white, black, red, green, blue,
> yellow, magenta and cyan).
>
>
>
> * support author and user selection of character and background
> opacity options: SOLID, TRANSLUCENT, TRANSPARENT [FLASH option
> deleted]
>
>
>
> * support options for altering the appearance of caption character
> edges.
>
>
>
> * support the authoring and selection of the six caption services,
> but information from only one service need be displayed at a given
> time.
>
>
>
> * include an option that permits a user to choose a setting that
> will display captions as intended by the caption provider (a
> default). Equivalents must also include an option that allows a
> viewer's chosen settings to remain until the viewer chooses to
> alter these settings, including during periods when the video
> source device is powered off.
>
>
>
> Multimedia content creation products and/or software must:
>
>
>
> * support the creation of equivalent text display functionalities
> as listed above
>
>
>
> * support interoperability and conversion between other common
> caption formats such as CEA 608, CEA 708, and Timed Text (e.g. DFXP).
>
>
>
>
>
>

From: Schomburg, Paul
Date: Tue, Aug 28 2007 10:10 AM
Subject: Re: Proposal for closed captions & timed text

Geoff:

With regard to your statement: "Some, but not all, of the 708
functional equivalents can be accomplished in the current text-display
formats..."

This is why I added in brackets [comparable]. I think you are correct
that media players won't be able to exactly replicate the functionality
in 708. This addition is intended to provide some flexibility but still
keep the bar high.

Thanks, Paul

Paul G. Schomburg, Sr. Manager
Tel: (202) 912-3800 x114; Cell: (202) 550-2230
-----Original Message-----
From: = EMAIL ADDRESS REMOVED =
[mailto: = EMAIL ADDRESS REMOVED = ] On Behalf Of Geoff Freed
Sent: Tuesday, August 28, 2007 11:52 AM
To: TEITAC Audio/Video Subcommittee
Subject: Re: [teitac-video] Proposal for closed captions & timed text


Hi, Paul:

Thanks for submitting this proposal. One area of concern that I see
is the 708 equivalency requirement for certain devices, like IP
players or non-broadcast personal media players:

> CEA 708 or timed text with functionality equivalent [or comparable]
> to CEA 708 (see end-note for definition of functional equivalent)

Some, but not all, of the 708 functional equivalents can be
accomplished in the current text-display formats used by media
players, such as QText, SAMI, RealText and DFXP. That's one
problem. Another is that you're requiring media players like
QuickTime, WMP RealPlayer and Flash to include controls that permit
users to switch styles that provide 708-equivalent behavior. My
guess is that this is going to be difficult for player manufacturers
to support, but I don't want to speak for them. However, I'd like
to hear if Andrew, Sean and Dave Singer have any opinions about this.

Geoff/NCAM




On Aug 28, 2007, at 11:09 AM, Schomburg, Paul wrote:

> Folks: Here is a proposal to provide clarity the requirements for
> (1) other digital video source devices, and (2) personal video
> display devices. We look forward to discussing this on today's call.
>
>
>
> Best regards, Paul
>
>
>
> -------BEGIN-------
>
> 3. Equipment of this type...
>
> Other digital video source products without broadcast reception
> capability, such as playback products for removable media (e.g.
> optical disc, tape, flash memory, etc.), IP-enabled playback
> products for downloaded or streaming video content, and media
> player software, that is procured for the purpose of displaying
> video on a DTV display or monitor with a screen size greater than
> 13 inches.
>
>
>
> Uses this standard...
>
> CEA 708 or timed text with functionality equivalent [or comparable]
> to CEA-708 (see end-note for definition of functional equivalent)
>
>
>
> To provide these functions:
>
> - Pass CEA-708 caption data, when available, to the
> caption decoding circuitry of DTV displays
>
> OR
>
> - Decode caption data or timed text, when available, and
> pass a decoded ("open-captioned") video signal to the DTV display
> or monitor.
>
>
>
> 4. Equipment of this type...
>
> Personal video display products without broadcast reception
> capability with an integrated display less than 13 inches.
> [Examples: Portable DVD players, Apple iPods, cell phones, etc."]
>
>
>
> Uses this standard...
>
> CEA 708 or timed text with functionality equivalent [or comparable]
> to CEA 708 (see end-note for definition of functional equivalent)
>
>
>
> To provide these functions...
>
> - Decode caption data or timed text, when available, for
> viewing on the integrated display unless not readily achievable.
>
> -------END-------
>
>
>
> Rationale: It appropriate to leave the decision to the government
> agency as to the type of content and purpose for which the device
> will be used.
>
> 1. CEA-708 is required for content originally authored for
> broadcasting or transmission in an MPEG transport stream. Such
> content may thereafter be provided via prerecorded media or
> downloaded/streamed from the Internet. Both players of prerecorded
> media (e.g. DVD, Blu-Ray, HD-DVD, video tape, etc.) and IP-enabled
> media players and associated software will require this capability
> if they are used to display such content.
>
> 2. Timed text is required for content not authored for
> broadcasting or transmission in an MPEG transport stream, but that
> may be provided via prerecorded media or downloaded/streamed from
> the Internet. Such timed text formats should provide functionality
> equivalent [or comparable] to CEA-708 to enable author and/or user
> control of fonts, background transparency, and location of text on
> screen so as to provide the most accessible viewing experience.
>
>
>
> End Note: TEITAC definition of "Functional Equivalent" to CEA 708
>
>
>
> Equivalent text display functionalities must:
>
>
>
> * support caption placement control by caption authors for any
> position within the TV safe area.
>
>
>
> * support standard, large, and small caption sizes and must allow
> the caption author to choose a size and allow the viewer to choose
> an alternative size.
>
>
>
> * support eight font variations. Caption authors may specify one of
> these eight font styles to be used to write caption text.
> Equivalents must include the ability for users to choose among the
> eight fonts. The equivalent must display the font chosen by the
> caption author unless the user chooses a different font.
>
>
>
> * support the eight font styles defined as follows: default
> (undefined), monospaced with serifs (similar to Courier),
> proportionally spaced with serifs (similar to Times New Roman),
> monospaced without serifs (similar to Helvetica Monospaced),
> proportionally spaced without serifs (similar to Arial and Swiss),
> casual font type (similar to Dom and Impress), cursive font type
> (similar to Coronet and Marigold), and small capitals (similar to
> Engravers Gothic).
>
>
>
> * support author and user choice of eight character foreground and
> eight character background colors: white, black, red, green, blue,
> yellow, magenta and cyan).
>
>
>
> * support author and user selection of character and background
> opacity options: SOLID, TRANSLUCENT, TRANSPARENT [FLASH option
> deleted]
>
>
>
> * support options for altering the appearance of caption character
> edges.
>
>
>
> * support the authoring and selection of the six caption services,
> but information from only one service need be displayed at a given
> time.
>
>
>
> * include an option that permits a user to choose a setting that
> will display captions as intended by the caption provider (a
> default). Equivalents must also include an option that allows a
> viewer's chosen settings to remain until the viewer chooses to
> alter these settings, including during periods when the video
> source device is powered off.
>
>
>
> Multimedia content creation products and/or software must:
>
>
>
> * support the creation of equivalent text display functionalities
> as listed above
>
>
>
> * support interoperability and conversion between other common
> caption formats such as CEA 608, CEA 708, and Timed Text (e.g. DFXP).
>
>
>
>
>
>

From: Sean Hayes
Date: Tue, Aug 28 2007 10:30 AM
Subject: Re: Proposal for closed captions & timed text

I don't know the answer to that.

Sean Hayes
Incubation Lab
Accessibility Business Unit
Microsoft

Office: +44 118 909 5867,
Mobile: +44 7875 091385


-----Original Message-----
From: = EMAIL ADDRESS REMOVED = [mailto: = EMAIL ADDRESS REMOVED = ] On Behalf Of Hoffman, Allen
Sent: 28 August 2007 17:25
To: TEITAC Audio/Video Subcommittee
Subject: Re: [teitac-video] Proposal for closed captions & timed text

Sean:
Are we doing "readily achievable" or "undue burden" bar here? I think
this would be the undue burden bar since this kind of captioning was not
in my understanding, part of the Section 255 portion of our work.


I'm not debating the feasibility of doing this, just questioning which
bar we are supposed to be applying.




Allen Hoffman -- = EMAIL ADDRESS REMOVED = ; v: 202-447-0303

-----Original Message-----
From: = EMAIL ADDRESS REMOVED =
[mailto: = EMAIL ADDRESS REMOVED = ] On Behalf Of Sean Hayes
Sent: Tuesday, August 28, 2007 12:00 PM
To: TEITAC Audio/Video Subcommittee
Subject: Re: [teitac-video] Proposal for closed captions & timed text

There are two parts to the idea of 708 equivalence. The first is the
data encoded in the captions themselves, I think most of the common
formats have broad equivalence to the coding functionality of 708; SAMI
and DFXP, the two I'm most familiar with, do.

The other half are the FCC player rules (which are not part of 708)
which require user adjustment/replacement of these. No other player
(software or hardware) that I am aware of allows for this; it's a unique
feature for US DTV at this point (Larry or Geoff correct me if I'm wrong
here). While I believe asking for this to be a feature of all captioning
systems is a worthy goal, I don't believe its readily achievable in the
short term.

Sean Hayes
Incubation Lab
Accessibility Business Unit
Microsoft

Office: +44 118 909 5867,
Mobile: +44 7875 091385


-----Original Message-----
From: = EMAIL ADDRESS REMOVED =
[mailto: = EMAIL ADDRESS REMOVED = ] On Behalf Of Geoff Freed
Sent: 28 August 2007 16:52
To: TEITAC Audio/Video Subcommittee
Subject: Re: [teitac-video] Proposal for closed captions & timed text


Hi, Paul:

Thanks for submitting this proposal. One area of concern that I see is
the 708 equivalency requirement for certain devices, like IP players or
non-broadcast personal media players:

> CEA 708 or timed text with functionality equivalent [or comparable]
> to CEA 708 (see end-note for definition of functional equivalent)

Some, but not all, of the 708 functional equivalents can be accomplished
in the current text-display formats used by media players, such as
QText, SAMI, RealText and DFXP. That's one problem. Another is that
you're requiring media players like QuickTime, WMP RealPlayer and Flash
to include controls that permit users to switch styles that provide
708-equivalent behavior. My guess is that this is going to be difficult
for player manufacturers to support, but I don't want to speak for them.
However, I'd like to hear if Andrew, Sean and Dave Singer have any
opinions about this.

Geoff/NCAM




On Aug 28, 2007, at 11:09 AM, Schomburg, Paul wrote:

> Folks: Here is a proposal to provide clarity the requirements for
> (1) other digital video source devices, and (2) personal video display

> devices. We look forward to discussing this on today's call.
>
>
>
> Best regards, Paul
>
>
>
> -------BEGIN-------
>
> 3. Equipment of this type...
>
> Other digital video source products without broadcast reception
> capability, such as playback products for removable media (e.g.
> optical disc, tape, flash memory, etc.), IP-enabled playback products
> for downloaded or streaming video content, and media player software,
> that is procured for the purpose of displaying video on a DTV display
> or monitor with a screen size greater than
> 13 inches.
>
>
>
> Uses this standard...
>
> CEA 708 or timed text with functionality equivalent [or comparable] to

> CEA-708 (see end-note for definition of functional equivalent)
>
>
>
> To provide these functions:
>
> - Pass CEA-708 caption data, when available, to the
> caption decoding circuitry of DTV displays
>
> OR
>
> - Decode caption data or timed text, when available, and
> pass a decoded ("open-captioned") video signal to the DTV display or
> monitor.
>
>
>
> 4. Equipment of this type...
>
> Personal video display products without broadcast reception capability

> with an integrated display less than 13 inches.
> [Examples: Portable DVD players, Apple iPods, cell phones, etc."]
>
>
>
> Uses this standard...
>
> CEA 708 or timed text with functionality equivalent [or comparable] to

> CEA 708 (see end-note for definition of functional equivalent)
>
>
>
> To provide these functions...
>
> - Decode caption data or timed text, when available, for
> viewing on the integrated display unless not readily achievable.
>
> -------END-------
>
>
>
> Rationale: It appropriate to leave the decision to the government
> agency as to the type of content and purpose for which the device will

> be used.
>
> 1. CEA-708 is required for content originally authored for
> broadcasting or transmission in an MPEG transport stream. Such
> content may thereafter be provided via prerecorded media or
> downloaded/streamed from the Internet. Both players of prerecorded
> media (e.g. DVD, Blu-Ray, HD-DVD, video tape, etc.) and IP-enabled
> media players and associated software will require this capability if
> they are used to display such content.
>
> 2. Timed text is required for content not authored for broadcasting
> or transmission in an MPEG transport stream, but that may be provided
> via prerecorded media or downloaded/streamed from the Internet. Such
> timed text formats should provide functionality equivalent [or
> comparable] to CEA-708 to enable author and/or user control of fonts,
> background transparency, and location of text on screen so as to
> provide the most accessible viewing experience.
>
>
>
> End Note: TEITAC definition of "Functional Equivalent" to CEA 708
>
>
>
> Equivalent text display functionalities must:
>
>
>
> * support caption placement control by caption authors for any
> position within the TV safe area.
>
>
>
> * support standard, large, and small caption sizes and must allow the
> caption author to choose a size and allow the viewer to choose an
> alternative size.
>
>
>
> * support eight font variations. Caption authors may specify one of
> these eight font styles to be used to write caption text.
> Equivalents must include the ability for users to choose among the
> eight fonts. The equivalent must display the font chosen by the
> caption author unless the user chooses a different font.
>
>
>
> * support the eight font styles defined as follows: default
> (undefined), monospaced with serifs (similar to Courier),
> proportionally spaced with serifs (similar to Times New Roman),
> monospaced without serifs (similar to Helvetica Monospaced),
> proportionally spaced without serifs (similar to Arial and Swiss),
> casual font type (similar to Dom and Impress), cursive font type
> (similar to Coronet and Marigold), and small capitals (similar to
> Engravers Gothic).
>
>
>
> * support author and user choice of eight character foreground and
> eight character background colors: white, black, red, green, blue,
> yellow, magenta and cyan).
>
>
>
> * support author and user selection of character and background
> opacity options: SOLID, TRANSLUCENT, TRANSPARENT [FLASH option
> deleted]
>
>
>
> * support options for altering the appearance of caption character
> edges.
>
>
>
> * support the authoring and selection of the six caption services,
> but information from only one service need be displayed at a given
> time.
>
>
>
> * include an option that permits a user to choose a setting that will
> display captions as intended by the caption provider (a default).
> Equivalents must also include an option that allows a viewer's chosen
> settings to remain until the viewer chooses to alter these settings,
> including during periods when the video source device is powered off.
>
>
>
> Multimedia content creation products and/or software must:
>
>
>
> * support the creation of equivalent text display functionalities as
> listed above
>
>
>
> * support interoperability and conversion between other common caption

> formats such as CEA 608, CEA 708, and Timed Text (e.g. DFXP).
>
>
>
>
>
>

From: Hoffman, Allen
Date: Tue, Aug 28 2007 10:35 AM
Subject: Re: Proposal for closed captions & timed text

Sean:
Are we doing "readily achievable" or "undue burden" bar here? I think
this would be the undue burden bar since this kind of captioning was not
in my understanding, part of the Section 255 portion of our work.


I'm not debating the feasibility of doing this, just questioning which
bar we are supposed to be applying.




Allen Hoffman -- = EMAIL ADDRESS REMOVED = ; v: 202-447-0303

-----Original Message-----
From: = EMAIL ADDRESS REMOVED =
[mailto: = EMAIL ADDRESS REMOVED = ] On Behalf Of Sean Hayes
Sent: Tuesday, August 28, 2007 12:00 PM
To: TEITAC Audio/Video Subcommittee
Subject: Re: [teitac-video] Proposal for closed captions & timed text

There are two parts to the idea of 708 equivalence. The first is the
data encoded in the captions themselves, I think most of the common
formats have broad equivalence to the coding functionality of 708; SAMI
and DFXP, the two I'm most familiar with, do.

The other half are the FCC player rules (which are not part of 708)
which require user adjustment/replacement of these. No other player
(software or hardware) that I am aware of allows for this; it's a unique
feature for US DTV at this point (Larry or Geoff correct me if I'm wrong
here). While I believe asking for this to be a feature of all captioning
systems is a worthy goal, I don't believe its readily achievable in the
short term.

Sean Hayes
Incubation Lab
Accessibility Business Unit
Microsoft

Office: +44 118 909 5867,
Mobile: +44 7875 091385


-----Original Message-----
From: = EMAIL ADDRESS REMOVED =
[mailto: = EMAIL ADDRESS REMOVED = ] On Behalf Of Geoff Freed
Sent: 28 August 2007 16:52
To: TEITAC Audio/Video Subcommittee
Subject: Re: [teitac-video] Proposal for closed captions & timed text


Hi, Paul:

Thanks for submitting this proposal. One area of concern that I see is
the 708 equivalency requirement for certain devices, like IP players or
non-broadcast personal media players:

> CEA 708 or timed text with functionality equivalent [or comparable]
> to CEA 708 (see end-note for definition of functional equivalent)

Some, but not all, of the 708 functional equivalents can be accomplished
in the current text-display formats used by media players, such as
QText, SAMI, RealText and DFXP. That's one problem. Another is that
you're requiring media players like QuickTime, WMP RealPlayer and Flash
to include controls that permit users to switch styles that provide
708-equivalent behavior. My guess is that this is going to be difficult
for player manufacturers to support, but I don't want to speak for them.
However, I'd like to hear if Andrew, Sean and Dave Singer have any
opinions about this.

Geoff/NCAM




On Aug 28, 2007, at 11:09 AM, Schomburg, Paul wrote:

> Folks: Here is a proposal to provide clarity the requirements for
> (1) other digital video source devices, and (2) personal video display

> devices. We look forward to discussing this on today's call.
>
>
>
> Best regards, Paul
>
>
>
> -------BEGIN-------
>
> 3. Equipment of this type...
>
> Other digital video source products without broadcast reception
> capability, such as playback products for removable media (e.g.
> optical disc, tape, flash memory, etc.), IP-enabled playback products
> for downloaded or streaming video content, and media player software,
> that is procured for the purpose of displaying video on a DTV display
> or monitor with a screen size greater than
> 13 inches.
>
>
>
> Uses this standard...
>
> CEA 708 or timed text with functionality equivalent [or comparable] to

> CEA-708 (see end-note for definition of functional equivalent)
>
>
>
> To provide these functions:
>
> - Pass CEA-708 caption data, when available, to the
> caption decoding circuitry of DTV displays
>
> OR
>
> - Decode caption data or timed text, when available, and
> pass a decoded ("open-captioned") video signal to the DTV display or
> monitor.
>
>
>
> 4. Equipment of this type...
>
> Personal video display products without broadcast reception capability

> with an integrated display less than 13 inches.
> [Examples: Portable DVD players, Apple iPods, cell phones, etc."]
>
>
>
> Uses this standard...
>
> CEA 708 or timed text with functionality equivalent [or comparable] to

> CEA 708 (see end-note for definition of functional equivalent)
>
>
>
> To provide these functions...
>
> - Decode caption data or timed text, when available, for
> viewing on the integrated display unless not readily achievable.
>
> -------END-------
>
>
>
> Rationale: It appropriate to leave the decision to the government
> agency as to the type of content and purpose for which the device will

> be used.
>
> 1. CEA-708 is required for content originally authored for
> broadcasting or transmission in an MPEG transport stream. Such
> content may thereafter be provided via prerecorded media or
> downloaded/streamed from the Internet. Both players of prerecorded
> media (e.g. DVD, Blu-Ray, HD-DVD, video tape, etc.) and IP-enabled
> media players and associated software will require this capability if
> they are used to display such content.
>
> 2. Timed text is required for content not authored for broadcasting
> or transmission in an MPEG transport stream, but that may be provided
> via prerecorded media or downloaded/streamed from the Internet. Such
> timed text formats should provide functionality equivalent [or
> comparable] to CEA-708 to enable author and/or user control of fonts,
> background transparency, and location of text on screen so as to
> provide the most accessible viewing experience.
>
>
>
> End Note: TEITAC definition of "Functional Equivalent" to CEA 708
>
>
>
> Equivalent text display functionalities must:
>
>
>
> * support caption placement control by caption authors for any
> position within the TV safe area.
>
>
>
> * support standard, large, and small caption sizes and must allow the
> caption author to choose a size and allow the viewer to choose an
> alternative size.
>
>
>
> * support eight font variations. Caption authors may specify one of
> these eight font styles to be used to write caption text.
> Equivalents must include the ability for users to choose among the
> eight fonts. The equivalent must display the font chosen by the
> caption author unless the user chooses a different font.
>
>
>
> * support the eight font styles defined as follows: default
> (undefined), monospaced with serifs (similar to Courier),
> proportionally spaced with serifs (similar to Times New Roman),
> monospaced without serifs (similar to Helvetica Monospaced),
> proportionally spaced without serifs (similar to Arial and Swiss),
> casual font type (similar to Dom and Impress), cursive font type
> (similar to Coronet and Marigold), and small capitals (similar to
> Engravers Gothic).
>
>
>
> * support author and user choice of eight character foreground and
> eight character background colors: white, black, red, green, blue,
> yellow, magenta and cyan).
>
>
>
> * support author and user selection of character and background
> opacity options: SOLID, TRANSLUCENT, TRANSPARENT [FLASH option
> deleted]
>
>
>
> * support options for altering the appearance of caption character
> edges.
>
>
>
> * support the authoring and selection of the six caption services,
> but information from only one service need be displayed at a given
> time.
>
>
>
> * include an option that permits a user to choose a setting that will
> display captions as intended by the caption provider (a default).
> Equivalents must also include an option that allows a viewer's chosen
> settings to remain until the viewer chooses to alter these settings,
> including during periods when the video source device is powered off.
>
>
>
> Multimedia content creation products and/or software must:
>
>
>
> * support the creation of equivalent text display functionalities as
> listed above
>
>
>
> * support interoperability and conversion between other common caption

> formats such as CEA 608, CEA 708, and Timed Text (e.g. DFXP).
>
>
>
>
>
>

From: Larry Goldberg
Date: Tue, Aug 28 2007 10:50 AM
Subject: Re: Proposal for closed captions & timed text

The FCC rules explicitly cover DTV receivers and standalone tuners (set-top
boxes).

In addition, the July 2000 Report and Order had this to say - which is very
relevant to today's discussion:

"53. Other Devices. Although we did not propose closed caption
decoder requirements for television interface devices whose primary function
is other than delivering television programming, such as VCRs, DVD players,
or personal video recorders, we know that these devices are used by
consumers in connection with their television sets to view closed caption
programming. In order for viewers to receive closed captions when using
these devices, it is not necessary for these devices to have decoding
capability. Rather, all that is required is for the device to pass through
the closed caption information to the decoder in the television set. We
expect that such devices, and any other similar new devices, will pass
through closed captions unaltered and intact to the decoder in the attached
digital television. Manufacturers of such devices should ensure that this
continues to be the case as the transition to digital television
progresses."

... Larry ...


Sean Hayes wrote:

> There are two parts to the idea of 708 equivalence. The first is the data
> encoded in the captions themselves, I think most of the common formats have
> broad equivalence to the coding functionality of 708; SAMI and DFXP, the two
> I'm most familiar with, do.
>
> The other half are the FCC player rules (which are not part of 708) which
> require user adjustment/replacement of these. No other player (software or
> hardware) that I am aware of allows for this; it's a unique feature for US DTV
> at this point (Larry or Geoff correct me if I'm wrong here). While I believe
> asking for this to be a feature of all captioning systems is a worthy goal, I
> don't believe its readily achievable in the short term.
>
> Sean Hayes
> Incubation Lab
> Accessibility Business Unit
> Microsoft
>
> Office: +44 118 909 5867,
> Mobile: +44 7875 091385
>
>
> -----Original Message-----
> From: = EMAIL ADDRESS REMOVED =
> [mailto: = EMAIL ADDRESS REMOVED = ] On Behalf Of Geoff Freed
> Sent: 28 August 2007 16:52
> To: TEITAC Audio/Video Subcommittee
> Subject: Re: [teitac-video] Proposal for closed captions & timed text
>
>
> Hi, Paul:
>
> Thanks for submitting this proposal. One area of concern that I see
> is the 708 equivalency requirement for certain devices, like IP
> players or non-broadcast personal media players:
>
>> CEA 708 or timed text with functionality equivalent [or comparable]
>> to CEA 708 (see end-note for definition of functional equivalent)
>
> Some, but not all, of the 708 functional equivalents can be
> accomplished in the current text-display formats used by media
> players, such as QText, SAMI, RealText and DFXP. That's one
> problem. Another is that you're requiring media players like
> QuickTime, WMP RealPlayer and Flash to include controls that permit
> users to switch styles that provide 708-equivalent behavior. My
> guess is that this is going to be difficult for player manufacturers
> to support, but I don't want to speak for them. However, I'd like
> to hear if Andrew, Sean and Dave Singer have any opinions about this.
>
> Geoff/NCAM
>
>
>
>
> On Aug 28, 2007, at 11:09 AM, Schomburg, Paul wrote:
>
>> Folks: Here is a proposal to provide clarity the requirements for
>> (1) other digital video source devices, and (2) personal video
>> display devices. We look forward to discussing this on today's call.
>>
>>
>>
>> Best regards, Paul
>>
>>
>>
>> -------BEGIN-------
>>
>> 3. Equipment of this type...
>>
>> Other digital video source products without broadcast reception
>> capability, such as playback products for removable media (e.g.
>> optical disc, tape, flash memory, etc.), IP-enabled playback
>> products for downloaded or streaming video content, and media
>> player software, that is procured for the purpose of displaying
>> video on a DTV display or monitor with a screen size greater than
>> 13 inches.
>>
>>
>>
>> Uses this standard...
>>
>> CEA 708 or timed text with functionality equivalent [or comparable]
>> to CEA-708 (see end-note for definition of functional equivalent)
>>
>>
>>
>> To provide these functions:
>>
>> - Pass CEA-708 caption data, when available, to the
>> caption decoding circuitry of DTV displays
>>
>> OR
>>
>> - Decode caption data or timed text, when available, and
>> pass a decoded ("open-captioned") video signal to the DTV display
>> or monitor.
>>
>>
>>
>> 4. Equipment of this type...
>>
>> Personal video display products without broadcast reception
>> capability with an integrated display less than 13 inches.
>> [Examples: Portable DVD players, Apple iPods, cell phones, etc."]
>>
>>
>>
>> Uses this standard...
>>
>> CEA 708 or timed text with functionality equivalent [or comparable]
>> to CEA 708 (see end-note for definition of functional equivalent)
>>
>>
>>
>> To provide these functions...
>>
>> - Decode caption data or timed text, when available, for
>> viewing on the integrated display unless not readily achievable.
>>
>> -------END-------
>>
>>
>>
>> Rationale: It appropriate to leave the decision to the government
>> agency as to the type of content and purpose for which the device
>> will be used.
>>
>> 1. CEA-708 is required for content originally authored for
>> broadcasting or transmission in an MPEG transport stream. Such
>> content may thereafter be provided via prerecorded media or
>> downloaded/streamed from the Internet. Both players of prerecorded
>> media (e.g. DVD, Blu-Ray, HD-DVD, video tape, etc.) and IP-enabled
>> media players and associated software will require this capability
>> if they are used to display such content.
>>
>> 2. Timed text is required for content not authored for
>> broadcasting or transmission in an MPEG transport stream, but that
>> may be provided via prerecorded media or downloaded/streamed from
>> the Internet. Such timed text formats should provide functionality
>> equivalent [or comparable] to CEA-708 to enable author and/or user
>> control of fonts, background transparency, and location of text on
>> screen so as to provide the most accessible viewing experience.
>>
>>
>>
>> End Note: TEITAC definition of "Functional Equivalent" to CEA 708
>>
>>
>>
>> Equivalent text display functionalities must:
>>
>>
>>
>> * support caption placement control by caption authors for any
>> position within the TV safe area.
>>
>>
>>
>> * support standard, large, and small caption sizes and must allow
>> the caption author to choose a size and allow the viewer to choose
>> an alternative size.
>>
>>
>>
>> * support eight font variations. Caption authors may specify one of
>> these eight font styles to be used to write caption text.
>> Equivalents must include the ability for users to choose among the
>> eight fonts. The equivalent must display the font chosen by the
>> caption author unless the user chooses a different font.
>>
>>
>>
>> * support the eight font styles defined as follows: default
>> (undefined), monospaced with serifs (similar to Courier),
>> proportionally spaced with serifs (similar to Times New Roman),
>> monospaced without serifs (similar to Helvetica Monospaced),
>> proportionally spaced without serifs (similar to Arial and Swiss),
>> casual font type (similar to Dom and Impress), cursive font type
>> (similar to Coronet and Marigold), and small capitals (similar to
>> Engravers Gothic).
>>
>>
>>
>> * support author and user choice of eight character foreground and
>> eight character background colors: white, black, red, green, blue,
>> yellow, magenta and cyan).
>>
>>
>>
>> * support author and user selection of character and background
>> opacity options: SOLID, TRANSLUCENT, TRANSPARENT [FLASH option
>> deleted]
>>
>>
>>
>> * support options for altering the appearance of caption character
>> edges.
>>
>>
>>
>> * support the authoring and selection of the six caption services,
>> but information from only one service need be displayed at a given
>> time.
>>
>>
>>
>> * include an option that permits a user to choose a setting that
>> will display captions as intended by the caption provider (a
>> default). Equivalents must also include an option that allows a
>> viewer's chosen settings to remain until the viewer chooses to
>> alter these settings, including during periods when the video
>> source device is powered off.
>>
>>
>>
>> Multimedia content creation products and/or software must:
>>
>>
>>
>> * support the creation of equivalent text display functionalities
>> as listed above
>>
>>
>>
>> * support interoperability and conversion between other common
>> caption formats such as CEA 608, CEA 708, and Timed Text (e.g. DFXP).
>>
>>
>>
>>
>>
>>

From: Hoffman, Allen
Date: Tue, Aug 28 2007 11:00 AM
Subject: Re: Proposal for closed captions & timed text

This is great, given the data is available in the originating content.



Allen Hoffman -- = EMAIL ADDRESS REMOVED = ; v: 202-447-0303

-----Original Message-----
From: = EMAIL ADDRESS REMOVED =
[mailto: = EMAIL ADDRESS REMOVED = ] On Behalf Of Larry
Goldberg
Sent: Tuesday, August 28, 2007 12:49 PM
To: TEITAC AV list
Subject: Re: [teitac-video] Proposal for closed captions & timed text

The FCC rules explicitly cover DTV receivers and standalone tuners
(set-top boxes).

In addition, the July 2000 Report and Order had this to say - which is
very relevant to today's discussion:

"53. Other Devices. Although we did not propose closed caption
decoder requirements for television interface devices whose primary
function is other than delivering television programming, such as VCRs,
DVD players, or personal video recorders, we know that these devices are
used by consumers in connection with their television sets to view
closed caption programming. In order for viewers to receive closed
captions when using these devices, it is not necessary for these devices
to have decoding capability. Rather, all that is required is for the
device to pass through the closed caption information to the decoder in
the television set. We expect that such devices, and any other similar
new devices, will pass through closed captions unaltered and intact to
the decoder in the attached digital television. Manufacturers of such
devices should ensure that this continues to be the case as the
transition to digital television progresses."

... Larry ...


Sean Hayes wrote:

> There are two parts to the idea of 708 equivalence. The first is the
> data encoded in the captions themselves, I think most of the common
> formats have broad equivalence to the coding functionality of 708;
> SAMI and DFXP, the two I'm most familiar with, do.
>
> The other half are the FCC player rules (which are not part of 708)
> which require user adjustment/replacement of these. No other player
> (software or
> hardware) that I am aware of allows for this; it's a unique feature
> for US DTV at this point (Larry or Geoff correct me if I'm wrong
> here). While I believe asking for this to be a feature of all
> captioning systems is a worthy goal, I don't believe its readily
achievable in the short term.
>
> Sean Hayes
> Incubation Lab
> Accessibility Business Unit
> Microsoft
>
> Office: +44 118 909 5867,
> Mobile: +44 7875 091385
>
>
> -----Original Message-----
> From: = EMAIL ADDRESS REMOVED =
> [mailto: = EMAIL ADDRESS REMOVED = ] On Behalf Of Geoff Freed
> Sent: 28 August 2007 16:52
> To: TEITAC Audio/Video Subcommittee
> Subject: Re: [teitac-video] Proposal for closed captions & timed text
>
>
> Hi, Paul:
>
> Thanks for submitting this proposal. One area of concern that I see
> is the 708 equivalency requirement for certain devices, like IP
> players or non-broadcast personal media players:
>
>> CEA 708 or timed text with functionality equivalent [or comparable]
>> to CEA 708 (see end-note for definition of functional equivalent)
>
> Some, but not all, of the 708 functional equivalents can be
> accomplished in the current text-display formats used by media
> players, such as QText, SAMI, RealText and DFXP. That's one problem.

> Another is that you're requiring media players like QuickTime, WMP
> RealPlayer and Flash to include controls that permit users to switch
> styles that provide 708-equivalent behavior. My guess is that this is

> going to be difficult for player manufacturers to support, but I don't

> want to speak for them. However, I'd like to hear if Andrew, Sean
> and Dave Singer have any opinions about this.
>
> Geoff/NCAM
>
>
>
>
> On Aug 28, 2007, at 11:09 AM, Schomburg, Paul wrote:
>
>> Folks: Here is a proposal to provide clarity the requirements for
>> (1) other digital video source devices, and (2) personal video
>> display devices. We look forward to discussing this on today's call.
>>
>>
>>
>> Best regards, Paul
>>
>>
>>
>> -------BEGIN-------
>>
>> 3. Equipment of this type...
>>
>> Other digital video source products without broadcast reception
>> capability, such as playback products for removable media (e.g.
>> optical disc, tape, flash memory, etc.), IP-enabled playback products

>> for downloaded or streaming video content, and media player software,

>> that is procured for the purpose of displaying video on a DTV display

>> or monitor with a screen size greater than
>> 13 inches.
>>
>>
>>
>> Uses this standard...
>>
>> CEA 708 or timed text with functionality equivalent [or comparable]
>> to CEA-708 (see end-note for definition of functional equivalent)
>>
>>
>>
>> To provide these functions:
>>
>> - Pass CEA-708 caption data, when available, to the
>> caption decoding circuitry of DTV displays
>>
>> OR
>>
>> - Decode caption data or timed text, when available, and
>> pass a decoded ("open-captioned") video signal to the DTV display or
>> monitor.
>>
>>
>>
>> 4. Equipment of this type...
>>
>> Personal video display products without broadcast reception
>> capability with an integrated display less than 13 inches.
>> [Examples: Portable DVD players, Apple iPods, cell phones, etc."]
>>
>>
>>
>> Uses this standard...
>>
>> CEA 708 or timed text with functionality equivalent [or comparable]
>> to CEA 708 (see end-note for definition of functional equivalent)
>>
>>
>>
>> To provide these functions...
>>
>> - Decode caption data or timed text, when available, for
>> viewing on the integrated display unless not readily achievable.
>>
>> -------END-------
>>
>>
>>
>> Rationale: It appropriate to leave the decision to the government
>> agency as to the type of content and purpose for which the device
>> will be used.
>>
>> 1. CEA-708 is required for content originally authored for
>> broadcasting or transmission in an MPEG transport stream. Such
>> content may thereafter be provided via prerecorded media or
>> downloaded/streamed from the Internet. Both players of prerecorded
>> media (e.g. DVD, Blu-Ray, HD-DVD, video tape, etc.) and IP-enabled
>> media players and associated software will require this capability if

>> they are used to display such content.
>>
>> 2. Timed text is required for content not authored for broadcasting
>> or transmission in an MPEG transport stream, but that may be provided

>> via prerecorded media or downloaded/streamed from the Internet. Such

>> timed text formats should provide functionality equivalent [or
>> comparable] to CEA-708 to enable author and/or user control of fonts,

>> background transparency, and location of text on screen so as to
>> provide the most accessible viewing experience.
>>
>>
>>
>> End Note: TEITAC definition of "Functional Equivalent" to CEA 708
>>
>>
>>
>> Equivalent text display functionalities must:
>>
>>
>>
>> * support caption placement control by caption authors for any
>> position within the TV safe area.
>>
>>
>>
>> * support standard, large, and small caption sizes and must allow the

>> caption author to choose a size and allow the viewer to choose an
>> alternative size.
>>
>>
>>
>> * support eight font variations. Caption authors may specify one of
>> these eight font styles to be used to write caption text.
>> Equivalents must include the ability for users to choose among the
>> eight fonts. The equivalent must display the font chosen by the
>> caption author unless the user chooses a different font.
>>
>>
>>
>> * support the eight font styles defined as follows: default
>> (undefined), monospaced with serifs (similar to Courier),
>> proportionally spaced with serifs (similar to Times New Roman),
>> monospaced without serifs (similar to Helvetica Monospaced),
>> proportionally spaced without serifs (similar to Arial and Swiss),
>> casual font type (similar to Dom and Impress), cursive font type
>> (similar to Coronet and Marigold), and small capitals (similar to
>> Engravers Gothic).
>>
>>
>>
>> * support author and user choice of eight character foreground and
>> eight character background colors: white, black, red, green, blue,
>> yellow, magenta and cyan).
>>
>>
>>
>> * support author and user selection of character and background
>> opacity options: SOLID, TRANSLUCENT, TRANSPARENT [FLASH option
>> deleted]
>>
>>
>>
>> * support options for altering the appearance of caption character
>> edges.
>>
>>
>>
>> * support the authoring and selection of the six caption services,
>> but information from only one service need be displayed at a given
>> time.
>>
>>
>>
>> * include an option that permits a user to choose a setting that will

>> display captions as intended by the caption provider (a default).
>> Equivalents must also include an option that allows a viewer's chosen

>> settings to remain until the viewer chooses to alter these settings,
>> including during periods when the video source device is powered off.
>>
>>
>>
>> Multimedia content creation products and/or software must:
>>
>>
>>
>> * support the creation of equivalent text display functionalities as
>> listed above
>>
>>
>>
>> * support interoperability and conversion between other common
>> caption formats such as CEA 608, CEA 708, and Timed Text (e.g. DFXP).
>>
>>
>>
>>
>>
>>

From: Gregg Vanderheiden
Date: Tue, Aug 28 2007 11:05 AM
Subject: Re: Proposal for closed captions & timed text

For 508 it would be undue burden.

Don't think captioning is part of 255 at all unless you are captioning a
phone call.


Gregg
-- ------------------------------
Gregg C Vanderheiden Ph.D.



> -----Original Message-----
> From: = EMAIL ADDRESS REMOVED =
> [mailto: = EMAIL ADDRESS REMOVED = ] On Behalf Of Sean Hayes
> Sent: Tuesday, August 28, 2007 11:28 AM
> To: TEITAC Audio/Video Subcommittee
> Subject: Re: [teitac-video] Proposal for closed captions & timed text
>
> I don't know the answer to that.
>
> Sean Hayes
> Incubation Lab
> Accessibility Business Unit
> Microsoft
>
> Office: +44 118 909 5867,
> Mobile: +44 7875 091385
>
>
> -----Original Message-----
> From: = EMAIL ADDRESS REMOVED =
> [mailto: = EMAIL ADDRESS REMOVED = ] On Behalf Of
> Hoffman, Allen
> Sent: 28 August 2007 17:25
> To: TEITAC Audio/Video Subcommittee
> Subject: Re: [teitac-video] Proposal for closed captions & timed text
>
> Sean:
> Are we doing "readily achievable" or "undue burden" bar here?
> I think this would be the undue burden bar since this kind
> of captioning was not in my understanding, part of the
> Section 255 portion of our work.
>
>
> I'm not debating the feasibility of doing this, just
> questioning which bar we are supposed to be applying.
>
>
>
>
> Allen Hoffman -- = EMAIL ADDRESS REMOVED = ; v: 202-447-0303
>
> -----Original Message-----
> From: = EMAIL ADDRESS REMOVED =
> [mailto: = EMAIL ADDRESS REMOVED = ] On Behalf Of Sean Hayes
> Sent: Tuesday, August 28, 2007 12:00 PM
> To: TEITAC Audio/Video Subcommittee
> Subject: Re: [teitac-video] Proposal for closed captions & timed text
>
> There are two parts to the idea of 708 equivalence. The first
> is the data encoded in the captions themselves, I think most
> of the common formats have broad equivalence to the coding
> functionality of 708; SAMI and DFXP, the two I'm most
> familiar with, do.
>
> The other half are the FCC player rules (which are not part
> of 708) which require user adjustment/replacement of these.
> No other player (software or hardware) that I am aware of
> allows for this; it's a unique feature for US DTV at this
> point (Larry or Geoff correct me if I'm wrong here). While I
> believe asking for this to be a feature of all captioning
> systems is a worthy goal, I don't believe its readily
> achievable in the short term.
>
> Sean Hayes
> Incubation Lab
> Accessibility Business Unit
> Microsoft
>
> Office: +44 118 909 5867,
> Mobile: +44 7875 091385
>
>
> -----Original Message-----
> From: = EMAIL ADDRESS REMOVED =
> [mailto: = EMAIL ADDRESS REMOVED = ] On Behalf Of Geoff Freed
> Sent: 28 August 2007 16:52
> To: TEITAC Audio/Video Subcommittee
> Subject: Re: [teitac-video] Proposal for closed captions & timed text
>
>
> Hi, Paul:
>
> Thanks for submitting this proposal. One area of concern
> that I see is the 708 equivalency requirement for certain
> devices, like IP players or non-broadcast personal media players:
>
> > CEA 708 or timed text with functionality equivalent [or comparable]
> > to CEA 708 (see end-note for definition of functional equivalent)
>
> Some, but not all, of the 708 functional equivalents can be
> accomplished in the current text-display formats used by
> media players, such as QText, SAMI, RealText and DFXP.
> That's one problem. Another is that you're requiring media
> players like QuickTime, WMP RealPlayer and Flash to include
> controls that permit users to switch styles that provide
> 708-equivalent behavior. My guess is that this is going to
> be difficult for player manufacturers to support, but I don't
> want to speak for them.
> However, I'd like to hear if Andrew, Sean and Dave Singer
> have any opinions about this.
>
> Geoff/NCAM
>
>
>
>
> On Aug 28, 2007, at 11:09 AM, Schomburg, Paul wrote:
>
> > Folks: Here is a proposal to provide clarity the requirements for
> > (1) other digital video source devices, and (2) personal
> video display
>
> > devices. We look forward to discussing this on today's call.
> >
> >
> >
> > Best regards, Paul
> >
> >
> >
> > -------BEGIN-------
> >
> > 3. Equipment of this type...
> >
> > Other digital video source products without broadcast reception
> > capability, such as playback products for removable media (e.g.
> > optical disc, tape, flash memory, etc.), IP-enabled
> playback products
> > for downloaded or streaming video content, and media player
> software,
> > that is procured for the purpose of displaying video on a
> DTV display
> > or monitor with a screen size greater than
> > 13 inches.
> >
> >
> >
> > Uses this standard...
> >
> > CEA 708 or timed text with functionality equivalent [or
> comparable] to
>
> > CEA-708 (see end-note for definition of functional equivalent)
> >
> >
> >
> > To provide these functions:
> >
> > - Pass CEA-708 caption data, when available, to the
> > caption decoding circuitry of DTV displays
> >
> > OR
> >
> > - Decode caption data or timed text, when available, and
> > pass a decoded ("open-captioned") video signal to the DTV
> display or
> > monitor.
> >
> >
> >
> > 4. Equipment of this type...
> >
> > Personal video display products without broadcast reception
> capability
>
> > with an integrated display less than 13 inches.
> > [Examples: Portable DVD players, Apple iPods, cell phones, etc."]
> >
> >
> >
> > Uses this standard...
> >
> > CEA 708 or timed text with functionality equivalent [or
> comparable] to
>
> > CEA 708 (see end-note for definition of functional equivalent)
> >
> >
> >
> > To provide these functions...
> >
> > - Decode caption data or timed text, when available, for
> > viewing on the integrated display unless not readily achievable.
> >
> > -------END-------
> >
> >
> >
> > Rationale: It appropriate to leave the decision to the government
> > agency as to the type of content and purpose for which the
> device will
>
> > be used.
> >
> > 1. CEA-708 is required for content originally authored for
> > broadcasting or transmission in an MPEG transport stream. Such
> > content may thereafter be provided via prerecorded media or
> > downloaded/streamed from the Internet. Both players of prerecorded
> > media (e.g. DVD, Blu-Ray, HD-DVD, video tape, etc.) and IP-enabled
> > media players and associated software will require this
> capability if
> > they are used to display such content.
> >
> > 2. Timed text is required for content not authored for
> broadcasting
> > or transmission in an MPEG transport stream, but that may
> be provided
> > via prerecorded media or downloaded/streamed from the
> Internet. Such
> > timed text formats should provide functionality equivalent [or
> > comparable] to CEA-708 to enable author and/or user control
> of fonts,
> > background transparency, and location of text on screen so as to
> > provide the most accessible viewing experience.
> >
> >
> >
> > End Note: TEITAC definition of "Functional Equivalent" to CEA 708
> >
> >
> >
> > Equivalent text display functionalities must:
> >
> >
> >
> > * support caption placement control by caption authors for any
> > position within the TV safe area.
> >
> >
> >
> > * support standard, large, and small caption sizes and must
> allow the
> > caption author to choose a size and allow the viewer to choose an
> > alternative size.
> >
> >
> >
> > * support eight font variations. Caption authors may specify one of
> > these eight font styles to be used to write caption text.
> > Equivalents must include the ability for users to choose among the
> > eight fonts. The equivalent must display the font chosen by the
> > caption author unless the user chooses a different font.
> >
> >
> >
> > * support the eight font styles defined as follows: default
> > (undefined), monospaced with serifs (similar to Courier),
> > proportionally spaced with serifs (similar to Times New Roman),
> > monospaced without serifs (similar to Helvetica Monospaced),
> > proportionally spaced without serifs (similar to Arial and Swiss),
> > casual font type (similar to Dom and Impress), cursive font type
> > (similar to Coronet and Marigold), and small capitals (similar to
> > Engravers Gothic).
> >
> >
> >
> > * support author and user choice of eight character foreground and
> > eight character background colors: white, black, red, green, blue,
> > yellow, magenta and cyan).
> >
> >
> >
> > * support author and user selection of character and background
> > opacity options: SOLID, TRANSLUCENT, TRANSPARENT [FLASH option
> > deleted]
> >
> >
> >
> > * support options for altering the appearance of caption character
> > edges.
> >
> >
> >
> > * support the authoring and selection of the six caption services,
> > but information from only one service need be displayed at a given
> > time.
> >
> >
> >
> > * include an option that permits a user to choose a setting
> that will
> > display captions as intended by the caption provider (a default).
> > Equivalents must also include an option that allows a
> viewer's chosen
> > settings to remain until the viewer chooses to alter these
> settings,
> > including during periods when the video source device is
> powered off.
> >
> >
> >
> > Multimedia content creation products and/or software must:
> >
> >
> >
> > * support the creation of equivalent text display
> functionalities as
> > listed above
> >
> >
> >
> > * support interoperability and conversion between other
> common caption
>
> > formats such as CEA 608, CEA 708, and Timed Text (e.g. DFXP).
> >
> >
> >
> >
> >
> >

From: Blanchard, Robert
Date: Tue, Aug 28 2007 11:25 AM
Subject: Re: Proposal for closed captions & timed text

Expectation is not equal to a mandatory requirement or regulation. The
FCC only has legal authority to regulate devices with broadcast tuners;
devices not having broadcast tuners are out of scope.



Robert

Sony



-----Original Message-----
From: = EMAIL ADDRESS REMOVED =
[mailto: = EMAIL ADDRESS REMOVED = ] On Behalf Of Larry
Goldberg
Sent: Tuesday, August 28, 2007 9:49 AM
To: TEITAC AV list
Subject: Re: [teitac-video] Proposal for closed captions & timed text



The FCC rules explicitly cover DTV receivers and standalone tuners
(set-top

boxes).



In addition, the July 2000 Report and Order had this to say - which is
very

relevant to today's discussion:



"53. Other Devices. Although we did not propose closed caption

decoder requirements for television interface devices whose primary
function

is other than delivering television programming, such as VCRs, DVD
players,

or personal video recorders, we know that these devices are used by

consumers in connection with their television sets to view closed
caption

programming. In order for viewers to receive closed captions when using

these devices, it is not necessary for these devices to have decoding

capability. Rather, all that is required is for the device to pass
through

the closed caption information to the decoder in the television set. We

expect that such devices, and any other similar new devices, will pass

through closed captions unaltered and intact to the decoder in the
attached

digital television. Manufacturers of such devices should ensure that
this

continues to be the case as the transition to digital television

progresses."



... Larry ...





Sean Hayes wrote:



> There are two parts to the idea of 708 equivalence. The first is the
data

> encoded in the captions themselves, I think most of the common formats
have

> broad equivalence to the coding functionality of 708; SAMI and DFXP,
the two

> I'm most familiar with, do.

>

> The other half are the FCC player rules (which are not part of 708)
which

> require user adjustment/replacement of these. No other player
(software or

> hardware) that I am aware of allows for this; it's a unique feature
for US DTV

> at this point (Larry or Geoff correct me if I'm wrong here). While I
believe

> asking for this to be a feature of all captioning systems is a worthy
goal, I

> don't believe its readily achievable in the short term.

>

> Sean Hayes

> Incubation Lab

> Accessibility Business Unit

> Microsoft

>

> Office: +44 118 909 5867,

> Mobile: +44 7875 091385

>

>

> -----Original Message-----

> From: = EMAIL ADDRESS REMOVED =

> [mailto: = EMAIL ADDRESS REMOVED = ] On Behalf Of Geoff Freed

> Sent: 28 August 2007 16:52

> To: TEITAC Audio/Video Subcommittee

> Subject: Re: [teitac-video] Proposal for closed captions & timed text

>

>

> Hi, Paul:

>

> Thanks for submitting this proposal. One area of concern that I see

> is the 708 equivalency requirement for certain devices, like IP

> players or non-broadcast personal media players:

>

>> CEA 708 or timed text with functionality equivalent [or comparable]

>> to CEA 708 (see end-note for definition of functional equivalent)

>

> Some, but not all, of the 708 functional equivalents can be

> accomplished in the current text-display formats used by media

> players, such as QText, SAMI, RealText and DFXP. That's one

> problem. Another is that you're requiring media players like

> QuickTime, WMP RealPlayer and Flash to include controls that permit

> users to switch styles that provide 708-equivalent behavior. My

> guess is that this is going to be difficult for player manufacturers

> to support, but I don't want to speak for them. However, I'd like

> to hear if Andrew, Sean and Dave Singer have any opinions about this.

>

> Geoff/NCAM

>

>

>

>

> On Aug 28, 2007, at 11:09 AM, Schomburg, Paul wrote:

>

>> Folks: Here is a proposal to provide clarity the requirements for

>> (1) other digital video source devices, and (2) personal video

>> display devices. We look forward to discussing this on today's call.

>>

>>

>>

>> Best regards, Paul

>>

>>

>>

>> -------BEGIN-------

>>

>> 3. Equipment of this type...

>>

>> Other digital video source products without broadcast reception

>> capability, such as playback products for removable media (e.g.

>> optical disc, tape, flash memory, etc.), IP-enabled playback

>> products for downloaded or streaming video content, and media

>> player software, that is procured for the purpose of displaying

>> video on a DTV display or monitor with a screen size greater than

>> 13 inches.

>>

>>

>>

>> Uses this standard...

>>

>> CEA 708 or timed text with functionality equivalent [or comparable]

>> to CEA-708 (see end-note for definition of functional equivalent)

>>

>>

>>

>> To provide these functions:

>>

>> - Pass CEA-708 caption data, when available, to the

>> caption decoding circuitry of DTV displays

>>

>> OR

>>

>> - Decode caption data or timed text, when available, and

>> pass a decoded ("open-captioned") video signal to the DTV display

>> or monitor.

>>

>>

>>

>> 4. Equipment of this type...

>>

>> Personal video display products without broadcast reception

>> capability with an integrated display less than 13 inches.

>> [Examples: Portable DVD players, Apple iPods, cell phones, etc."]

>>

>>

>>

>> Uses this standard...

>>

>> CEA 708 or timed text with functionality equivalent [or comparable]

>> to CEA 708 (see end-note for definition of functional equivalent)

>>

>>

>>

>> To provide these functions...

>>

>> - Decode caption data or timed text, when available, for

>> viewing on the integrated display unless not readily achievable.

>>

>> -------END-------

>>

>>

>>

>> Rationale: It appropriate to leave the decision to the government

>> agency as to the type of content and purpose for which the device

>> will be used.

>>

>> 1. CEA-708 is required for content originally authored for

>> broadcasting or transmission in an MPEG transport stream. Such

>> content may thereafter be provided via prerecorded media or

>> downloaded/streamed from the Internet. Both players of prerecorded

>> media (e.g. DVD, Blu-Ray, HD-DVD, video tape, etc.) and IP-enabled

>> media players and associated software will require this capability

>> if they are used to display such content.

>>

>> 2. Timed text is required for content not authored for

>> broadcasting or transmission in an MPEG transport stream, but that

>> may be provided via prerecorded media or downloaded/streamed from

>> the Internet. Such timed text formats should provide functionality

>> equivalent [or comparable] to CEA-708 to enable author and/or user

>> control of fonts, background transparency, and location of text on

>> screen so as to provide the most accessible viewing experience.

>>

>>

>>

>> End Note: TEITAC definition of "Functional Equivalent" to CEA 708

>>

>>

>>

>> Equivalent text display functionalities must:

>>

>>

>>

>> * support caption placement control by caption authors for any

>> position within the TV safe area.

>>

>>

>>

>> * support standard, large, and small caption sizes and must allow

>> the caption author to choose a size and allow the viewer to choose

>> an alternative size.

>>

>>

>>

>> * support eight font variations. Caption authors may specify one of

>> these eight font styles to be used to write caption text.

>> Equivalents must include the ability for users to choose among the

>> eight fonts. The equivalent must display the font chosen by the

>> caption author unless the user chooses a different font.

>>

>>

>>

>> * support the eight font styles defined as follows: default

>> (undefined), monospaced with serifs (similar to Courier),

>> proportionally spaced with serifs (similar to Times New Roman),

>> monospaced without serifs (similar to Helvetica Monospaced),

>> proportionally spaced without serifs (similar to Arial and Swiss),

>> casual font type (similar to Dom and Impress), cursive font type

>> (similar to Coronet and Marigold), and small capitals (similar to

>> Engravers Gothic).

>>

>>

>>

>> * support author and user choice of eight character foreground and

>> eight character background colors: white, black, red, green, blue,

>> yellow, magenta and cyan).

>>

>>

>>

>> * support author and user selection of character and background

>> opacity options: SOLID, TRANSLUCENT, TRANSPARENT [FLASH option

>> deleted]

>>

>>

>>

>> * support options for altering the appearance of caption character

>> edges.

>>

>>

>>

>> * support the authoring and selection of the six caption services,

>> but information from only one service need be displayed at a given

>> time.

>>

>>

>>

>> * include an option that permits a user to choose a setting that

>> will display captions as intended by the caption provider (a

>> default). Equivalents must also include an option that allows a

>> viewer's chosen settings to remain until the viewer chooses to

>> alter these settings, including during periods when the video

>> source device is powered off.

>>

>>

>>

>> Multimedia content creation products and/or software must:

>>

>>

>>

>> * support the creation of equivalent text display functionalities

>> as listed above

>>

>>

>>

>> * support interoperability and conversion between other common

>> caption formats such as CEA 608, CEA 708, and Timed Text (e.g. DFXP).

>>

>>

>>

>>

>>

>>

From: Larry Goldberg
Date: Tue, Aug 28 2007 11:50 AM
Subject: Proposal for closed captions & timed text

Here is Paul's proposal for the entire committee to peruse.

- Larry


------ Forwarded Message
> From: "Schomburg, Paul" < = EMAIL ADDRESS REMOVED = >
> Reply-To: TEITAC Audio/Video Subcommittee < = EMAIL ADDRESS REMOVED = >
> Date: Tue, 28 Aug 2007 11:09:13 -0400
> To: TEITAC Audio/Video Subcommittee < = EMAIL ADDRESS REMOVED = >
> Conversation: Proposal for closed captions & timed text
> Subject: [teitac-video] Proposal for closed captions & timed text
>
> Folks: Here is a proposal to provide clarity the requirements for (1)
> other digital video source devices, and (2) personal video display
> devices. We look forward to discussing this on today's call.
>
>
>
> Best regards, Paul
>
>
>
> -------BEGIN-------
>
> 3. Equipment of this type...
>
> Other digital video source products without broadcast reception
> capability, such as playback products for removable media (e.g. optical
> disc, tape, flash memory, etc.), IP-enabled playback products for
> downloaded or streaming video content, and media player software, that
> is procured for the purpose of displaying video on a DTV display or
> monitor with a screen size greater than 13 inches.
>
>
>
> Uses this standard...
>
> CEA 708 or timed text with functionality equivalent [or comparable] to
> CEA-708 (see end-note for definition of functional equivalent)
>
>
>
> To provide these functions:
>
> - Pass CEA-708 caption data, when available, to the caption
> decoding circuitry of DTV displays
>
> OR
>
> - Decode caption data or timed text, when available, and pass
> a decoded ("open-captioned") video signal to the DTV display or monitor.
>
>
>
>
> 4. Equipment of this type...
>
> Personal video display products without broadcast reception capability
> with an integrated display less than 13 inches. [Examples: Portable
> DVD players, Apple iPods, cell phones, etc."]
>
>
>
> Uses this standard...
>
> CEA 708 or timed text with functionality equivalent [or comparable] to
> CEA 708 (see end-note for definition of functional equivalent)
>
>
>
> To provide these functions...
>
> - Decode caption data or timed text, when available, for
> viewing on the integrated display unless not readily achievable.
>
> -------END-------
>
>
>
> Rationale: It appropriate to leave the decision to the government
> agency as to the type of content and purpose for which the device will
> be used.
>
> 1. CEA-708 is required for content originally authored for broadcasting
> or transmission in an MPEG transport stream. Such content may
> thereafter be provided via prerecorded media or downloaded/streamed from
> the Internet. Both players of prerecorded media (e.g. DVD, Blu-Ray,
> HD-DVD, video tape, etc.) and IP-enabled media players and associated
> software will require this capability if they are used to display such
> content.
>
> 2. Timed text is required for content not authored for broadcasting or
> transmission in an MPEG transport stream, but that may be provided via
> prerecorded media or downloaded/streamed from the Internet. Such timed
> text formats should provide functionality equivalent [or comparable] to
> CEA-708 to enable author and/or user control of fonts, background
> transparency, and location of text on screen so as to provide the most
> accessible viewing experience.
>
>
>
> End Note: TEITAC definition of "Functional Equivalent" to CEA 708
>
>
>
> Equivalent text display functionalities must:
>
>
>
> * support caption placement control by caption authors for any position
> within the TV safe area.
>
>
>
> * support standard, large, and small caption sizes and must allow the
> caption author to choose a size and allow the viewer to choose an
> alternative size.
>
>
>
> * support eight font variations. Caption authors may specify one of
> these eight font styles to be used to write caption text. Equivalents
> must include the ability for users to choose among the eight fonts. The
> equivalent must display the font chosen by the caption author unless the
> user chooses a different font.
>
>
>
> * support the eight font styles defined as follows: default
> (undefined), monospaced with serifs (similar to Courier), proportionally
> spaced with serifs (similar to Times New Roman), monospaced without
> serifs (similar to Helvetica Monospaced), proportionally spaced without
> serifs (similar to Arial and Swiss), casual font type (similar to Dom
> and Impress), cursive font type (similar to Coronet and Marigold), and
> small capitals (similar to Engravers Gothic).
>
>
>
> * support author and user choice of eight character foreground and eight
> character background colors: white, black, red, green, blue, yellow,
> magenta and cyan).
>
>
>
> * support author and user selection of character and background opacity
> options: SOLID, TRANSLUCENT, TRANSPARENT [FLASH option deleted]
>
>
>
> * support options for altering the appearance of caption character
> edges.
>
>
>
> * support the authoring and selection of the six caption services, but
> information from only one service need be displayed at a given time.
>
>
>
> * include an option that permits a user to choose a setting that will
> display captions as intended by the caption provider (a default).
> Equivalents must also include an option that allows a viewer's chosen
> settings to remain until the viewer chooses to alter these settings,
> including during periods when the video source device is powered off.
>
>
>
> Multimedia content creation products and/or software must:
>
>
>
> * support the creation of equivalent text display functionalities as
> listed above
>
>
>
> * support interoperability and conversion between other common caption
> formats such as CEA 608, CEA 708, and Timed Text (e.g. DFXP).
>
>
>
>
>
>

From: Andrew Kirkpatrick
Date: Tue, Sep 11 2007 11:40 AM
Subject: Re: Proposal for closed captions & timed text

I promised to respond to "functionally equivalent". Some answers
within.

End Note: TEITAC definition of "Functional Equivalent" to CEA
708



Equivalent text display functionalities must:



* support caption placement control by caption authors for any
position within the TV safe area.

There is clearly some difficulty describing a TV safe area for
environments that don't have such a concept.



Furthermore, the tools that create captions for online media don't
support placement of captions on a per-caption basis in the way that
tools for broadcast captioning do.



* support standard, large, and small caption sizes and must
allow the caption author to choose a size and allow the viewer to choose
an alternative size.

In the broadcast world, captions defined as standard size and displayed
can be expected to display in a predictable way depending on the size of
the user's set. This is not so for online, since the media may take up
a small portion of the screen. It is important for developers to select
a font size that can be easily read, and while there is benefit to being
able to increase the font size, this is currently handled by modifying
the player size or displaying the video full screen. There are
certainly usability improvements that we can come up with, but these are
not usability standards, they are accessibility standards.



* support eight font variations. Caption authors may specify one
of these eight font styles to be used to write caption text. Equivalents
must include the ability for users to choose among the eight fonts. The
equivalent must display the font chosen by the caption author unless the
user chooses a different font.

There are problems with support in system fonts for the "8 fonts". Most
players already support far more than 8 fonts, but this is author
controlled in all presently available players.

* support the eight font styles defined as follows: default
(undefined), monospaced with serifs (similar to Courier), proportionally
spaced with serifs (similar to Times New Roman), monospaced without
serifs (similar to Helvetica Monospaced), proportionally spaced without
serifs (similar to Arial and Swiss), casual font type (similar to Dom
and Impress), cursive font type (similar to Coronet and Marigold), and
small capitals (similar to Engravers Gothic).

Same comment as previous item.

* support author and user choice of eight character foreground
and eight character background colors: white, black, red, green, blue,
yellow, magenta and cyan).



* support author and user selection of character and background
opacity options: SOLID, TRANSLUCENT, TRANSPARENT [FLASH option deleted]



* support options for altering the appearance of caption
character edges.

The previous three are all easy to deal with on the author side but are
not part of the current online experience for any media player.

* support the authoring and selection of the six caption
services, but information from only one service need be displayed at a
given time.

There is no present means to deliver 708 caption data and the multiple
fields. There are other ways to deliver alternative caption tracks for
media, even more than the 4 caption services available in broadcast
captioning.

* include an option that permits a user to choose a setting
that will display captions as intended by the caption provider (a
default). Equivalents must also include an option that allows a
viewer's chosen settings to remain until the viewer chooses to alter
these settings, including during periods when the video source device is
powered off.

Persistant player settings are not part of any online media player
presently.

* Multimedia content creation products and/or software must:



* support the creation of equivalent text display
functionalities as listed above



* support interoperability and conversion between other common
caption formats such as CEA 608, CEA 708, and Timed Text (e.g. DFXP).

Do people believe that support for DFXP is equivalent to the above
requirements? Is it necessary to convert from one format into DFXP to
support end users? (I don't think so). There needs to be a recognition
of the present situation, and the differences between broadcast and
non-broadcast video.



AWK