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Thomsons IP/xDSL Video Set-Top Box

Posted: 13th Sep, 2003 By: MarkJ

The consumer electronics manufacturer Thomson has introduced a new TV set-top-box that couples broadband xDSL Internet access with video and other entertainment services:

New Thomson IP/DSL Video Set-Top Box Delivers Video and Entertainment Services At Low Cost

Expanding its commitment to providing cost-effective IP video solutions for the telecom sector, Thomson is previewing its latest generation set-top box in stand 431 in hall 11 at the International Broadcasting Conference (IBC2003) in Amsterdam. The new decoder, a sleekly designed ultra-compact unit, delivers a wide range of home entertainment and broadband services to the living room and provides telephone companies (Telcos) with new revenue opportunities at a dramatically lower cost than it's predecessor.

The robust set-top box is ideal for Telcos to deliver a full array of digital quality broadcast video through DSL telephone lines. The new device also allows consumers to enjoy video on demand, audio channels, and web surfing and email access through their televisions. All are provided through one consumer device using broadband IP networks such as DSL. The decoder also works with other IP networks such as Ethernet, and is well suited for large facilities like universities, hospitals, and hotels. It also can support interactive operator applications such as online gaming and messaging.

"Thomson is dedicated to working with telecom operators to create new value-added services to expand their revenue stream at a reasonable cost," said Bruno Fabre, Vice President, Thomson Telecom Profit Centre. "By offering innovative products that deliver audio and video content over current broadband networks, we are helping our Telco partners increase customer loyalty by offering bundled services of voice, high-speed data and video."

Designed to support the most valued entertainment and online services with low equipment cost, this video over DSL receiver is priced at around 40% less than the previous model. Despite the lower price point, the new decoder provides flexibility and customisation to support a wide array of video and entertainment services. "Based on the experience gained from the successful commercial deployment of Thomson's earlier product offering, the DSL 1500T, we have developed a set-top box that meets the specific needs of our customers at a price point that helps them achieve faster mass market penetration," said Baudouin de la Tour, Vice President, DSL Business, Thomson.

The new receiver builds upon the advanced software found in Thomson's earlier video-over-DSL product, which has been used in commercial deployments in North America, the Middle East and Europe. Customers for the DSL 1500T include major operators such as TF1 in France and Monaco Telecom.

While designed to achieve a lower deployment cost, the new products powerful architecture quickly render user interfaces and can reliably decode encrypted MPEG-2 content.

The new receiver is launching in two models, the IP 901 and the IP 921. To support high quality video services, the receiver has extensive connectivity interfaces including S-Video, Composite, RGB (on SCART - Model IP921 only), and an optical output SPDIF for Dolby Digital 5.1 Surround Sound. The fast Ethernet port will enable integration into an array of IP networks and the USB port can support a variety of peripherals such as portable audio and video devices.

The new product is already in lab testing with key Telco partners, and is expected to roll out in the fourth quarter.

Imagery is available at
http://www.harvardpr.com/home/article_details.asp?id=6336