Feeds
Scientific-Atlanta Explorer 8300
Cable technology provider Scientific Atlanta confirmed today that its Explorer 8300DVB set top box will be used for Telewest's rival to Sky+.
Telewest's new digital video recorder (DVR, also known as personal video recorder or PVR) service will be rolled out to customers in the second half of 2005. The cableco has entered into a contract making Scientific Atlanta the company's exclusive provider of DVR set top boxes for a two year period.
"We are capitalizing on Scientific-Atlanta’s extensive interactive video experience and innovation by using their expertise to lead our vendor integration effort," said Telewest's president and COO Eric Tveter. "This integration expertise will help accelerate deployment of the 8300DVB PVR and help deliver a smooth interactive video experience for our customers."
The Explorer 8300 features 3 tuners. This will allow subscribers to record three programmes at the same time, or to record two programmes while watching a third live. The box includes 2 video decorders, allowing subscribers to watch a channel while arching previously recorded programmes to, for example, an externally-connected VCR or DVD recorder. Most interestingly, the boxes supplied to Telewest will be capable of decoding and displaying high definition television, although there has been no word as yet as to when the cable operator will begin carrying high definition content.
"PVR technology will become the enabling digital service for operators throughout Europe," said George Stromeyer, VP and managing director at Scientific-Atlanta Europe. "Our research indicates that 92 percent of users are likely to continue their PVR service, and 75 percent say they have recommended PVR to someone not in their household."
