Jitter Buffer
Short definition
Jitter Buffer: A jitter buffer is a receiver-side mechanism that smooths uneven arrival times of voice packets.
Meaning and how it works
The receiver holds incoming RTP packets briefly before playback to maintain a more regular audio stream. An adaptive jitter buffer can vary its depth as network conditions change. More buffering can absorb timing variations, but it also adds conversational delay.
Business applications
- Business scenario:
A mobile softphone increases buffering during an unstable connection to reduce noticeable gaps in speech.
What to check before implementation
A jitter buffer cannot fully compensate for heavy packet loss. Balance smoother playback against delay, and investigate the network causes of excessive jitter.