Typical DLNA Applications, Device Classes

Figure 2 shows the most common DLNA application. It consists of a digital media server and a digital media player.

The server distributes the content, while the player is operated by the user to control the device that will be used to view the content. The player can display a list of servers on the home network and a list of content on those servers from a different room. When the user selects a content item, the player will request it from the server and play it back as it is received.

The DLNA has so far defined 12 device classes, including digital media servers and digital media players (Figure 3). These device classes are used to create applications based on the three-box model, whereby the system is controlled by a controller other than the player, and applications involved other uses, such as content copying through uploads and downloads, printer control, and connections with mobile devices.

The DLNA Certified Logo Program

In addition to the formulation of design guidelines, the DLNA has also established systems and infrastructure for the certification of interoperability between products based on the guidelines. It authorizes manufacturers to use the DLNA Certified logo on compliant products.

As shown in Figure 4, products are examined in testing laboratories, where test tools are used to check their conformance with the specifications. Their interoperability with reference devices is also tested. The DLNA has established an interoperability certification system based on these tests in combination with UPnP and Wi-Fi certifications. Other activities include the development of the test tools used in these certification processes, and the selection of reference devices and testing laboratories.

The use of the DLNA Certified logo on devices that pass these tests enables users to see at a glance whether a product has been certified. A list of certified products is also available on the DLNA website.

The DLNA Certified logo program began in September 2005. Immediately after its inception, Sony launched numerous DLNA certified products that had passed the certification program.

The Future of the Technology

The DLNA has also produced guidelines for new product categories, including mobile devices and printers. As new technologies and standards, such as power line communication, become available for use, DLNA guidelines will be expanded to accommodate new approaches based on these innovations.

Content and service providers have shown strong interest in linking various types of equipment to home networks. The range of systems covered by the DLNA is expected to expand and diversify in the future.

Standardization Initiatives

In March 2006, DLNA Networked Device Interoperability Guidelines and guidelines for related media formats were given the status of international standards with the publication of IEC 62481-1 and IEC 62481-2 by the International Electrotechnical Commission (IEC).