Content distribution arbitration apparatus and method for the same

A content distribution arbitration method using a content distribution arbitration apparatus built in a LAN connected to a plurality of content receivers receiving a content transmitted in multicast from a content distribution server through a network, the method comprising:

• storing, in a first memory, constraint information indicating the number of channels capable of receiving contents simultaneously in the LAN and a communication band,
• storing, a second memory, connection information indicating a distribution channel used by each of the content receivers which receives a content;
• receiving a message for requesting distribution of content by a desired distribution channel;
• and
• determining whether the message is accepted based on request of the message, the constraint information and the connection information.

A computer readable storage medium storing instructions of a computer program which when executed by a computer results in performance of steps comprising:

• storing, in a first memory, constraint information indicating the number of channels capable of receiving contents simultaneously in the LAN and a communication band,
• storing, a second memory, connection information indicating a distribution channel used by each of the content receivers which receives a content;
• receiving a message for requesting distribution of content by a desired distribution channel;
• and
• determining whether the message is accepted based on request of the message, the constraint information and the connection information.