Perceptual Quality Assessment of Packet- Based Vocal Conversations over Wireless Networks: Methodologies and Applications

In this chapter, the authors describe the intrinsic needs to effectively integrate interactive vocal conversations over heterogeneous networks including packetand circuitbased networks. The requirement to harmonize transport networks is discussed and a foreseen architecture multi -operators and -services is presented. Moreover, envisaged remedies to the ever increasing network complexity are also summarized. Subjective and objective methodologies to evaluate voice quality under listening and conversational conditions are thoroughly described. In addition, softwareand emulationbased frameworks developed in order to evaluate and improve voice quality are rigorously described. This chapter stresses parametric model-based assessment algorithms due to their ability to be useful for on-line network management. In particular, the authors describe parametric assessment algorithms over last-hop wireless Telecom networks and packet-based networks. The last part of this chapter describes several management applications which consider users’ preferences and providers’ needs. DOI: 10.4018/978-1-61520-680-3.ch018