UNITAM peoplemeters are based on a simple concept of three steps:
The meter includes several ports to which various
media devices possibly connected to a TV set are connected.
The meter detects where the signal on the TV
is coming from (the “active port”), and
generates audio signatures continuously from that
port as long as it remains active.
The signatures generated by the meter will be later
transmitted by modem to base, where they are going
to be processed in order to identify all content shown on the
associated TV set.
To perform this job UNITAM meters are
equipped with 6 ports which work in the same basic way.
These ports are connected to every media device capable
of delivering content present in the TV installation,
by means of special cables that are inserted in the signal path
at the output of each device, without disturbing in
any way the signal as it flows towards the TV set.
UNITAM meters also include a “sensor”
port that may be connected to the TV set’s audio
output (if available), or otherwise to a tiny microphone
attached to the TV set’s speaker.
The simplicity of the UNITAM peoplemeter
makes it extremely simple to install; so much so that it
can be installed by just about anybody with a minimum
of technical affinity (e.g. the installation can be
conveniently outsourced to a specialized third party
without requiring expensive internal resources).
UNITAM meters are 100% non intrusive
since they require just a by-pass connection inserted
in the audio signal path (no units need to be opened
or modified in any way), plus a “transparent”
antenna connection (UNITAM meters also include an internal
TV tuner device that is used in several ways to complement
its functions). Its straightforward concept makes it
possible to troubleshoot and diagnose eventual problems
during installation from a remote site (see installation).
Among the most remarkable features included
in UNITAM meters, it’s worth mentioning:
Firmware upload
The meter’s software can be upgraded automatically
overnight during the polling connection.
Calling meter technology
The meter calls base using 1-800 lines, what
makes the installation even easier, plus it eliminates
any possibility of ‘ringing phones’ and
associated problems.
Versatile, programmable display
turns the meter into a useful device for the PM
It has a friendly and handy user interface based on
a graphic display that contributes to panel member’s
positive attitude towards cooperation.
Service information ready input
ports
Even though all meter ports use audio signatures as
the primary detection method, every port is equipped
with a serial input/output as well that can be connected
to an external device or even directly to a SI-enabled
media terminal.
Massive flash memory
Every UNITAM meter features a 2 Mbyte flash memory for
data storage plus the possibility of installing a “Compact
Flash” card for virtually unlimited storage (it
can keep backup viewing data of several days if required).
Advance wireless internal communication
Based on international DECT standards that guarantee
optimum communication performance between units installed
in the same household
Stylish and robust design
The mechanical aspect and structural features of UNITAM
meters were entrusted to an industrial designer, who
designed every aspect of the device in order to maximize
its environmental fitness and robustness.
Advanced diagnostics and troubleshooting
tools
UNITAM meters include a wealth of innovative features
to maximize its diagnostic and self-healing capabilities.
For example, it can detect if any cable connected to
any of its ports has been disconnected, and if so, from
which end!
Possibility of scheduling support
calls
Every UNITAM meter in a certain panel can be programmed
to call base at any given time, so that RMS appointments
(i.e., “Remote Setup & Maintenance”
sessions) can be scheduled to minimize field costs.
RJ 45 self-latching connectors
Greatly reduce the chance of accidental disconnections.
Custom screw heads
Keep the meter safe from being opened by "curious
electronic amateurs”.
In summary, UNITAM meters were designed with one major
goal in mind:
To provide a sophisticated, universal,
yet simple, robust tool for audience measurement having
minimum panel maintenance requirements.
The fact that most of the software responsible
for generating the viewing data runs in base (instead
of inside the device, as found in conventional meter
technologies) makes it possible to modify or enhance
the “meter’s behavior” from base,
virtually eliminating maintenance revisits to the panel
home.
