Pace launches new connected set top boxes

British digital TV giant Pace has today announced a new range of "powerful" high definition set top boxes designed to help operators take the "first steps" into connected home services.

The world's biggest set top box manufacturer says that the HD receivers will "energise" home networks and deliver an "advanced viewing experience" for pay-TV subscribers.

The boxes can be used as standalone HD receivers, or as IP clients within a home network for streaming a range of other services, such as video on-demand and web content. They integrate into WiFi, Powerline or coaxial networks and are fully HD and 3D-ready.

Essentially, the receivers offer telecoms, cable and satellite operators a 'future proof' system able to deliver TV content, but also a "converged broadband and broadcast big screen experience" without needing to deploy new hardware.

Darren Fawcett, the chief technical engineer at Pace, said: "Pay-TV companies across the globe want to provide entry level set top boxes at one end, but also cater for the consumer who wants to light up all screens with a great pay-TV experience.

"The challenge for operators is how to achieve the right economics and a consistent quality of experience, while ensuring their systems are simple to install and operate."

He added: "Pace's stylish new range helps operators to meet this challenge in the appropriate stages, without the need for unsightly and expensive new cable installations.

"By lowering the costs associated with introducing and developing home networks, Pace is helping to place pay-TV providers firmly at the centre of the connected home."

In July, Pace reported a slump in first half pre-tax profits due to supply chain issues and poor performance across Europe, but said that it remains on track to meet revised full-year expectations.

Earlier in the month, Harvard International launched its own new range of Freeview and Freesat set top boxes that support connected services and integrate with mobile devices.