LOUISVILLE, CO – CableLabs on Monday announced it has developed a new solution that extends the functionality of certain Unidirectional Digital Cable Ready Products (UDCPs) that use Cablecards to access switched digital services previously unavailable to such devices.
The new solution was developed in conjunction with TiVo, Motorola, Scientific-Atlanta, BigBand Networks and C-COR.
CableLabs recently developed specifications for a new external interface that enables UDCPs equipped with a USB connector and necessary firmware to access switched digital cable channels, benefiting both cable operators and consumers.
A new adapter using this interface will attach to the UDCP device so the device can access switched digital cable channels.
CableLabs president and CEO Richard Green said development of the new adapter is a result of cable’s efforts to explore innovative technology solutions that can manage bandwidth to allow for more efficient deployment of cable’s advanced services.
Green added the new adapter will solve the switched digital issue for UDCPs that have a USB connector and necessary firmware. Such UDCPs will enable consumers to view all linear cable channels, including both switched and non-switched linear channels. He said the new adapter will be available to consumers in the first half of 2008.
Devices that could benefit from this new technology include TiVo digital video recorders and other one-way Cablecard-enabled products equipped with a USB connector and necessary firmware that consumers are currently using in their homes.
